Halstead has been financially neglected and is urgent need of more investment to get it thriving again, according to a Essex county councillor.

Joe Pike, who lives in Bois Field Terrace, Halstead, has called on the government to invest more money in Halstead and East Anglia.

He said: “Things are not getting done because of the shortage of money.

“It is holding development back.

“I’m not saying we should put council taxes up but the government needs to get its organisation right.

Mr Pike added the on-going delays of getting a popular footbridge in Halstead fixed and also signs warning of ducks crossing Trinity Road, were examples of a lack of money getting in the way of improvements in the town.

The footbridge was closed in November but six months on has still not reopened due to issues over the ownership of it - and the money to fix it.

He continued: “East Anglia - including Halstead - has a lot going for it.

“I don’t think the importance of the area has been fully realised.

“The town’s growth is being held back by a lack of decent internet in some of the villages, the lack of investment in the A120 which is only suitable for a horse and cart in some area, as well as the A131, and the need to improve the railways in the surrounding area.

“Halstead and East Anglia should be flourishing.

“Halstead is a lovely place but it is being held back by a lack of investment and the opportunities are not there for more new shops to open.”