Land in Heybridge has historic issues of severe flooding.

As early as 2001 planned housing schemes were criticised or altered due to flooding concerns.

In February 2014, Maldon District Council included a stipulation in the latest Local Development Plan that any development in the north of Heybridge should contribute towards a flood alleviation scheme.

In January 2015, the masterplan for the 1,100 homes was unveiled to the public. It included details about the housing, the amenities and green spaces, plus the flood alleviation scheme.

The plans were given the green light in December 2016.

At the meeting, councillor Miriam Lewis of Heybridge West Ward stated the development was a “last chance saloon” for Heybridge to get a flood prevention scheme.

Up to 200,000 new homes across the country are now set to get off the ground after the Government confirmed £866 million investment.

They announced 133 council-led projects across the country would receive funding to support work to make housing developments viable.

The Heybridge bid description said: “This bid requires funding to overcome difficult and costly infrastructure requirements including flood defences, extensive remedial works, connection to utilities and public highways, and public realm works in order to enable the delivery of a priority housing site for the area.”

Housing Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Our priority is building the homes this country desperately needs.

“This first wave of investment totalling £866 million will help get up to 200,000 homes off the ground, making a huge difference to communities across the country.”