Guiding Chelmsford’s growth to be a greener, fairer, more connected community

Chelmsford’s Local Plan, which should guide the district’s development through to 2041, is in the third and final consultation phase, residents and other interested parties have the opportunity to share their thoughts and feedback on the proposed plan, and there is still time to participate in this final stage before the deadline on 18 March.

Review Process and Next Steps

The review process for Chelmsford’s Local Plan began in the winter of 2021 and this final stage is the last opportunity for further comments to be submitted before independent examination of the Plan.

Comments and suggestions can be registered through the planning policy consultation portal . All representations that are submitted will be reviewed by the Planning Inspector, who will consider the merits of any unresolved objections. This phase is then followed by an independent examination after which the inspector will make recommendations on whether the plan can be adapted.

Vision and Key Objectives

The vision for the Local Plan review is to strive for a greener, fairer and more connected Chelmsford. This vision has been translated into key aims, from tackling the housing affordability crisis to strengthening communities across the district.

For a greener community: 

- pushing for zero carbon developments, 

- boosting opportunities for active and sustainable travel, 

- requiring new tree planting,  

- expanding natural habitats and biodiversity, and

- improving water efficiency.

For a fairer community:

- maximising the delivery of affordable housing,

- creating places which are easily accessible,

- promoting walking, cycling and public transport,

- securing developer contributions to infrastructure, and

- providing many more jobs for local residents.

For a more connected community: 

- enhancing health and wellbeing and tackling health inequalities

- promoting active lifestyles,

- providing new spaces for play, recreation and sports and

- creating a network of great places and spaces which promote social cohesion.

Why Your Voice Matters

Councillor Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council, emphasises the importance of an updated Local Plan:

How to Get Involved

All consultation documents can be found on the Chelmsford City Council website and the portal is open for comments to be submitted for consideration, on the Council website also.