Residents have been urged to have their say on the future placement of new homes in Basildon as the borough faces a 27,000-housing target.

Basildon Council officially launched its consultation on the new draft local plan that will guide its development across the next 20 years – including sections on housing, transport, infrastructure, climate change and more affecting growth.

The 27,111-home draft plan includes 16,928 homes on green belt, with opposition councillors raising fears about the impact on infrastructure, traffic and the character of the borough.

Concerns have already been raised about Wickford’s green belt, with land surrounding the Wick Country Park allocated for housing in the draft plan.

The consultation comes as Castle Point Council have completed their own and Southend Council remains set to launch theirs in coming months.

Labour councillor Adele Brown, councillor responsible for planning and infrastructure believes the move marks a milestone for the future of the borough.

Mrs Brown said: "The launch of the local plan consultation marks a significant milestone in our vision for Basildon's future.

“We must remember the real people behind these policies, the families, young adults, key workers, and seniors who call Basildon home.

“This plan isn’t just about maps and statistics, it’s about creating a community where people feel connected, secure, and proud to live.”

The draft plan has also met opposition from groups such as the Billericay Action Group, who took issue with the 4,170 new homes across seven sites in the town, surrounding Billericay Town FC, Burstead Golf Club, Stock Brook Manor and numerous areas near Barleylands.

Mrs Brown added that by having an “evidence-based” plan, they can ensure developments are responsible and sustainable and that the process is about providing needed jobs and housing as well.

She said: “With this plan, we’re committed to delivering infrastructure at the point of need, ensuring that as Basildon grows, our community has the support it requires in transport, education, healthcare, and green spaces.

"The launch of the consultation marks an exciting step towards our future, and we want to hear from everyone in Basildon throughout this process.”

Ms Brown added over the next ten weeks the council will host multiple different events to make sure all can have their say.

To take part, visit https://basildonlocalplan.commonplace.is/ - the consultation ends on January 13 2025.