RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say on documents which will help to shape the future of new housing in a village.

The Coggeshall Neighbourhood Plan team have published a draft version of a scheme which will define which areas can be built on by developers in the next 20 years.

The team, which is made up of parish councillors and residents, are now appealing for members of the public to have their say on the draft plan during a six-week consultation period.

Once the consultation has ended, amendments could be made to the plan ahead of crunch talks with Braintree Council who will have to approve the final version when it is completed in spring next year.

The draft plan put forward offers space for 411 new homes to be built in Coggeshall before 2033

Land to the north of Colchester Road would take on the bulk of new housing, with the site being allocated for 325 new dwellings.

The Dutch Nursery would have scope for 59 new homes, and Cook Field in East Street would take on 16.

Under the plan, the remaining 11 homes would meanwhile be allocated to Tey Road.

Despite allocating certain areas for housing, Coggeshall Parish Council says it would also support further developments put forward for brownfield sites in the village.

The draft plan also outlines conditions for new housing in order to mitigate the impact on the existing environment and heritage.

Developers will be asked to make financial contributions to a series of projects such as flood management schemes, the community bus and a new safe crossing over the A120.

A spokesman said: "The Coggeshall Neighbourhood Plan has now been published for comment. The plan has been written in close consultation with Coggeshall Parish Council and the community reflecting their determination to preserve the unique character of their village.

"With well over 200 listed buildings, many dating back to the middle ages, this is a village of historic significance with a strong sense of identity.

"Not surprisingly, the plan focusses on heritage and the rural setting but also welcomes innovative design and demonstrates a serious commitment to the environment.

"The plan is available to download from the website www.coggeshall-np.com and can he read at various places in the parish including the library, village hall, churches, schools and local coffee shops including Marks Hall."