Research is a fundamental element to the delivery of affordable housing.  We conduct research to help us obtain an accurate understanding of the housing need of local people and the surrounding issues. 

Findings from our research studies influence the housing policies we develop,and can also be used by other areas within the council such as Planning and Community Development.  Similarly we draw on their research findings to ensure we represent these elements in our policies.

In 2007 we commissioned a significant research study, the Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) which was published in April 2008.  The Assessment was undertaken jointly with Colchester and Chelmsford Borough Councils. We will conduct annual updates to this document within its lifespan of five years.

Details of the first (2009) update to this document can be viewed by selecting the corresponding tabs on the left hand side.