Epping under pressure

Epping will come under increasing pressure for development as a result the government's East of England Plan. It demands the construction of 3,500 new homes in the district plus the expansion of Harlow.

Already in Epping land is allocated for new houses at St Margaret's Hospital (see right) and St John's School - although detailed planning permission is needed at both sites before construction can begin.

The county council is also considering the future of the Junior School site in St John's Road, once the school moves into the new school being built at Coronation Hill. The Lib Dems are campaigning for community uses to stay on the site.

"Everyone accepts the need for some new housing - not least so people born and brought up in the area can find somewhere to live - but it is vital that attention is also paid to improving community facilities and transport infrastructure. Otherwise our area will no longer be able to cope," said Lib Dem district councillor Jon Whitehouse.