The Labour Party has responded to Uttlesford District Council's draft Local Plan by emphasising the need for a "clear long-term plan" for Dunmow.

A consultation has now closed on the Local Plan, which lays out plans for growth and development in the district.

According to the anticipated timeline, in early 2024 the council will consider consultation feedback and make revisions to the plan as appropriate.

They will then put together a final version of the plan, which will go to public consultation in the summer.

Uttlesford looks set to build around 14,000 homes to meet demand, of which 1,000 could be affordable homes - but Labour is calling for 40 per cent to be affordable, which they say is "ambitious and sends a clear signal to developers".

Labour has said they want to see local people shape the planned Easton Park development, with 50 per cent affordable starter homes for young families and the protection of ancient woodland.

They have also opposed the draft plan's proposed development on Chelmer River flood plains at Bigods Lane and Church End, which they say lacks the road infrastructure to support significant development, and "risks spoiling" a relatively undeveloped side of Dunmow.

The party has raised concerns that new development may cause traffic problems, particularly  the proposed development at Church End contributing to congestion on St Edmunds Lane and the junction with Braintree Road.

Labour has welcomed plans for the new all-through Helena Romanes School,an additional two-form primary school in the east of town, and a large new secondary school at Takeley.

Ben Cavanagh, Dunmow resident and vice-chair of the constituency Labour Party, said; "The plan really matters.

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"It sets out what kind of development the council wants to see over the next 20 years, with substantial new housing and space for business.

"It’s vital we get a plan in place. Without one, developers have more flexibility to do what they want and, with the council’s planning service in special measures, Uttlesford councillors have less power to protect the things that make our district special."

Representatives of the Conservative Party and the R4U-led Uttlesford District Council have been approached for comment.