Contracts for controversial land in Halstead have still not been exchanged, despite negotiations starting nine months ago.

The Gazette revealed a buyer had been identified for the land east of High Street site in May, after a previous buyer dropped out.

Braintree Council, which part-owns the 4.6-acre plot, has confirmed contracts have not yet been signed.

It has refused to give any details of any interested parties, although it is understood the land will be used solely for housing.

A spokesman from Braintree Council said negotiations were taking a while due to the number of parties involved.

She said the contract will be signed “as soon as possible”.