RESIDENTS are being reminded to have their say on plans for proposed garden communities before the end of the month.

The additional evidence being submitted to the planning inspector supporting three new garden communities will be available until 5pm on September 30.

Braintree, Colchester and Tendring councils say they have produced the extra information requested by the inspector last year following an examination on the joint part of their local plans.

The planning inspector raised questions about several areas he wanted to see further evidence on surrounding the viability of the garden community schemes, the proposed rapid transit system and the sustainability of alternative development options.

A six-week public consultation was launched last month for residents to comment on this additional evidence.

Supported by Essex County Council, the garden community developments in Braintree, Colchester and Tendring incorporate a long-term strategy which the developers say will help provide homes, jobs and infrastructure.

Built over 50 years, it is said the communities will reduce the need to increase the size of existing towns and villages.

Mark Cory, leader of Colchester Council, said: “It is vital we get local views and public scrutiny of the new evidence.

“It is absolutely vital we continue getting Government support to deliver the infrastructure needed to turn the principles of the garden communities into reality.”

Neil Stock, leader of Tendring Council, said: “We are keen to hear residents’ views on the new evidence created in support of our draft Local Plan, and consultation responses will be passed to the planning inspector.

“Our robust and innovative garden community plans form a relatively small part of this draft Local Plan but will set us on a path for sustainable growth for the future.”

The comments received will be supplied to the inspector ahead of the re-opening of the Local Plan examination. Visit www.braintree.gov.uk/NEAtechS1.