Theydon Bois under pressure

Theydon Bois is 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 and new gypsy and traveller sites.

As many residents will know, the district council is currently consulting on the location of gypsy and traveller sites. It has identified two potential sites in Theydon Bois in prominent Green Belt locations.

"I am concerned that the district council's criteria means that unsuitable sites have been suggested, including those off Abridge Road," said Theydon Bois Liberal Democrat councillor Roland Frankel. Local people have the opportunity to express their views by responding to the consultation document at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk.

"We need some new housing - not least so people born and brought up in the area can find somewhere to live - but this must not be at the expense of the character which makes our area a special place to live,"