A problematic economic future awaits the Maldon district, according to a major survey.
A new study by district council planning chiefs has painted a bleak picture saying up to 1,500 jobs could vanish by 2015.
It also says the prospects of the area will be hampered by an ageing workforce and the fact almost half of the population work outside the area.
The survey, undertaken for the forthcoming Local Plan review covering up to 2011, says any economic development will have to be provided with extreme care.
Strategically the district is isolated with poor public transport links. An estimated 30 acres of industrial land is needed to replace the impact of Bradwell Power Station closing, which generates up to 545 jobs.
A new report will stress the need to diversify employment options and encourage the growth of tourism and service industries.
Maldon district councillors will discuss the report on January 21.
Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article