The Steeple Bumpstead Neighbourhood Plan is the eighth neighbourhood plan to be adopted in the Braintree district, after councillors unanimously voted to approve it.
This was approved at a meeting of Full Council this week on Monday, 2 June.
The plan, created by Steeple Bumpstead Parish Council, can now be used when determining future planning applications in the area. It sets out how the local community want to shape the development and growth of their area and what it should look like.
This includes where they want new homes, what local infrastructure should be provided, safeguarding historic buildings and green spaces, and protecting and improving community facilities.
This follows a planning referendum held on Thursday 3rd April 2025 where just over 95% of those who voted were in favour of the neighbourhood plan to help decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area.
Councillor Gabrielle Spray, Cabinet Member for Planning at Braintree District Council, said: “It’s fantastic news this updated neighbourhood plan for Steeple Bumpstead is over the line, giving communities direct power to develop a shared vision and shape the development and growth of their local area. I would like to thank and congratulate the parish council and the local community on producing an excellent plan which will now be used as a key community-led document when deciding future planning applications in the area.”
The Steeple Bumpstead Neighbourhood Plan Working Group said: "The Parish Council is delighted that the village's Neighbourhood Plan has now formally been approved by Braintree District Council. This has been a very long time in the planning, and sets out a positive vision for how we all want our community to develop in future years in ways that meet identified local needs, and ensures that any future developments here in Steeple Bumpstead meet the needs of the residents of the Parish. With thanks to all the residents and group members for their contributions.”
Councillor Diana Garrod, ward councillor for Bumpstead, said: “Having an updated neighbourhood plan is great news for Steeple Bumpstead which reflects the views of the community and will guide future planning decisions for the village. A huge thank you to those who have participated in the creation of the final document.”
There are 18 neighbourhood plans either in progress or adopted in the district. Those adopted include Coggeshall, Cressing, Hatfield Peverel, Kelvedon and Feering and those currently in progress, including Earls Colne and a joint plan for Finchingfield and Wethersfield.
More information about neighbourhood plans in the Braintree district can be found on the council’s website: www.braintree.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplan.