THE ability of Thurrock Council to finally pull together a local development plan has been questioned by a leading local councillor.

The much-delayed local plan as been in the melting pot for several years and was once again debated at a meeting of the council's local plan task force group on Monday evening.

Cllr Martin Kerin, who is the Vice Chair of the Task Force and the Shadow Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, has questioned the council's ability to execute a successful plan. He is concerned the problems that are besetting the A13 widening scheme, and what it says about the overall direction of the Local Plan

At tonight's (Monday, 20 January) meeting, he publicly questioned the Council's ability to deliver an ambitious scheme, saying: "As a councillor and resident of Thurrock, I am increasingly questioning whether or not this Council has the ability to deliver an ambitious Local Plan for the benefit of our residents.

"It is concerning to learn of the problems with the A13 widening scheme. If we can't successfully execute a major road project, what chance do we have to radically transform our borough for the betterment of its residents?

"I have asked for an urgent update to be presented to the Local Plan Task Force. In this update, I want to see a review of the current Local Plan team structure and capabilities. Additionally, I would like to see a comparison with other Local Authorities' Local Plan Teams.

"I and the residents of Thurrock need concrete assurances that this Council can deliver the Local Plan."