Essex County Council has outlined plans for development of Maldon's 'last field', one month after denying it planned to do so in the near future.

Last Thursday (September 29), residents living near Primrose Meadow, just off Mundon Road, Maldon, received notice of a consultation period, which is due to begin in October.

In the letter, seen by Maldon Nub News, Essex Housing announced its 'emerging proposals'. This includes 60 affordable homes for older people, 64 homes "suited to Maldon's housing needs", and "a new landscaped public realm and open space".

In August, a spokesperson for Essex County Council told Nub News there were "no plans to sell the site at present".

However, they continued: "Essex Housing will consult with residents before plans are submitted to Maldon District Council.

"Once plans are submitted, there will be a further period of consultation, as all planning applications are subject to."

When asked whether a planning application was likely to be received by Maldon District Council soon, the spokesperson replied: "No."

BBC Essex's Richard Smith interviewed residents at the Meadow on August 8. (Photo: Janet Mayes)

Part of the site is owned by Plume Academy, which means the school would have to sell its portion in order for development to take place.

A spokesperson for the Academy has been approached for comment.

Meanwhile, Maldon Town Council has 'strongly encouraged' residents to have their voices heard regarding the consultation.

In a post on Facebook, a spokesperson for the Town Council wrote: "The Town Mayor, Councillor Andrew Lay, would like to bring the town's attention to the flyer circulated to residents regarding the proposal for a 124-house development on land at Mundon Road, Maldon (known locally as Primrose Meadow).

"It has been issued by Essex Housing - Essex County Council's in-house publicly owned development team - and Connect PA, a leading Westminster-based communications agency."

Members of the public are invited to attend a drop-in event at Maldon Methodist Church on Monday 17 October, from 4.30pm until 8.30pm.

It is hoped this will give residents the opportunity to discuss the proposals with the Essex Housing team directly, and to provide feedback.

Further updates to follow