The review of Maldon district's Local Development Plan (LDP) has been brought forward following a meeting last night (Tuesday, 23 February).

Councillors agreed at the full council meeting on 23 February to seize the opportunity to bring forward the review of the Local Development Plan (LDP) and reinvest its Bradwell B team staffing resources into the project.

The Maldon District Local Development Plan (LDP) 2014 - 2029 was adopted in July 2017 and was due for review by July 2022 at the very latest.

However, news in January that the council's consultation with the company behind proposals for Bradwell B (BRB) has been put on hold has left the local authority in a position where staff are available for a review of the local plan.

It is also timely given proposed changes to planning law and targets for new housing by the Government, the effects on the local economy of the Covid-19, the council's 'Climate Emergency' decision, Brexit and a reduction in the supply of land for housing.

Cllr Wendy Stamp, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: "Updating the Local Development Plan will ensure that Maldon district's planning policy framework remains fit for purpose and responsive to changing needs and challenges.

BRB's decision to reprogramme its project, gives us the ideal opportunity to redeploy as many of our Bradwell B project team as possible to support our Local Plans team in bringing forward as quickly as possible this review, which we hope we can conclude by the end of 2023."