Views from residents will help shape a masterplan for North Heybridge.

Maldon District Council is working with developers and landowners on the document, which is connected to plans for 1,235 homes in the area, as set out in the draft Local Development Plan.

The LDP, which has been submitted to the Secretary of State for an examination-in public in the autumn, states that planning consent for the new garden suburb will only be granted if it is in accordance with a masterplan.

A council spokesman said work has already started on this to enable issues such as a flood alleviation scheme, transport, and environmental protection and management to be laid out before planning applications are submitted.

She said this will ensure high quality development that is well integrated with the wider town.

Residents can have a say this Saturday at Heybridge Primary School from noon to 6pm. Their feedback will inform the production of the draft masterplan, which may also need to be updated to reflect any changes should they be required following the examination in public and adoption of the LDP.