Fears were raised that a lack of school places will be a growing problem for east Colchester as its population continues to expand.

Councillors said an education timebomb could result as hundreds of families move to homes going up at the former Paxman factory and other new developments in the area.

Invited to quiz Brian Jarvis, Colchester Council's portfolio-holder for renaissance, as part of a review of his role, the authority's overview and scrutiny committee asked what the Mile End Conservative was doing to tackle the issue.

Theresa Higgins (Lib Dem, New Town) said the education contribution developers of major homes schemes are required to pay Essex County Council should be used to fund a new school.