RESIDENTS, businesses and organisations across Thurrock are being reminded that there is just over a week left to have their say on the borough's new Local Plan.

The Regulation 19 consultation closes at midnight on Wednesday, 14 October, marking the final stage at which comments can be submitted before the Local Plan is sent to the Planning Inspectorate for independent examination.

The plan sets out how Thurrock will grow and develop up to 2044, including where new homes, jobs, infrastructure and community facilities should be located.

Over the past six weeks, the council has been speaking to residents and communities across the borough through a series of events and engagement activity, helping people understand the proposals and how to submit their views.

The Local Plan has also been a key part of the council's ongoing engagement with businesses, developers and landowners. At the council's recent Developer Forum, partners discussed how future development can support new homes, employment opportunities, infrastructure investment and regeneration, while creating clean, attractive and thriving places that communities can be proud of.

Cllr Tom Kelly, cabinet member for Regeneration and Environment, said: "Thank you to everyone who has already taken the time to look at the Local Plan, attend one of our events and send us their comments.

"This plan will help shape Thurrock for many years to come, from the homes and jobs we need to the roads, infrastructure, community facilities and green spaces that make our borough a place people are proud to call home.

"We are now approaching the end of this consultation, so if you have not yet had your say, I would encourage you to take a look at the proposals and submit your comments before midnight on Wednesday 14 October.

"This is the final opportunity to make a formal representation before the plan is considered by an independent Planning Inspector."

At this stage, representations should focus on whether the Local Plan is legally compliant and sound. The Planning Inspector will consider whether the plan has been positively prepared, is justified by appropriate evidence, is effective and is consistent with national planning policy.

Anyone who responded during earlier stages of the Local Plan process should submit a response again if they want their comments to be considered by the Planning Inspector.

The easiest and fastest way to view the Local Plan and submit comments is online. Representations can also be submitted by email or post, while copies of the plan are available to view in Thurrock libraries and at the Civic Offices in Grays.

Have your say before midnight next Wednesday at Local Plan Regulation 19 Consultation | New Local Plan for Thurrock | Thurrock Council

After the consultation closes, the Local Plan and representations received will be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for independent examination.

The council has been taking a roadshow around the borough detailing the local plan.

The final opportunity to see it takes place in Stanford-le-Hope on Wednesday, 7 October.