The Council is now consulting on the latest version of Southend's Local Plan - REFINING THE OPTIONS. Although housing is one of the most crucial elements of the Plan, it also covers the need for jobs, a healthy environment, better transport and social provision.
Responding to news that the Government has paused its planning reforms after a backlash from the Liberal Democrats, opposition parties, and Conservative MPs, Layla Moran MP Oxford West & Abingdon said: "This is a victory for the Liberal Democrats - the writing has been on the wall for the Tories over their misguided, undemocratic planning reforms ever since our victory in the Chesham and Amersham by-election.
Many councils have told the Government that they are happy to welcome Afghans to the UK, but the Government must fully-fund the costs of relocating. Chelmsford Council Leader Stephen Robinson has written a letter, signed by other Lib Dem Council Leaders, to the Minister for Local Government
The letter reminds the Minister of the housing crisis in most parts of the country, and how benefit levels don't meet actual rent costs. So the Government must cover these additional costs plus the costs to councils of helping to support these new residents.
Chelmsford is celebrating positive youth culture and taking a stand against knife crime. The national monument to knife violence comes to Chelmsford's Central Park on 6th September 2021 and a youth award scheme has been launched.
Commented Chelmsford Lib Dem Leader Stephen Robinson, "As part of our aim to deliver a safer Chelmsford, my Lib Dem colleagues have worked hard to secure support to bring the Knife Angel sculpture to Chelmsford.
Chelmsford has welcomed five families who have escaped the chaos in Afghanistan. They are sponsored by the UK Government, as part of the project to relocate people who have worked to help keep British troops safe.
Said Lib Dem Leader of Chelmsford City Council, Stephen Robinson, "I am happy to welcome these new families and I've been overwhelmed by the kind offers of support from residents of Chelmsford. The staff at their temporary location have been fantastic in providing all food and other essentials. The Red Cross emergency response team have been on site supporting them.
The Liberal Democrat councillors on Uttlesford District Council have asked that the council should volunteer to house some refugees from Afghanistan, as part of the new Afghanistan citizens' settlement scheme announced by the Government today.
Cllr Melvin Caton, the leader of Liberal Democrats on the council said "Uttlesford has welcomed a number of Syrian families to the district in recent years following the civil war in that country. We should do the same for refugees that are fleeing their homes or face threats of persecution from the Taliban in Afghanistan."
Responding 
