RESIDENTS are being asked to have their say on plans to build thousands of new homes in north Essex.

The East of England Regional Assembly has set out four scenarios which would see between 26,060 and 33,650 new houses built in the county between 2021 and 2031.

Scenario 4, which would see more houses built in areas where most people are moving to or living longer, would result in the most houses in north Essex.

Colchester would see 1,700 new homes, Tendring a further 1,200 and Braintree a total of 950.

Scenario 1 would continue current trends and see 1,500 homes built across the three districts, including 840 in Colchester. The review will look at what is needed for the region, including public transport, roads, water supply sewerage, health and education.

A draft policy will be published next March before a further consultation takes place ahead of a final plan being set out in 2011.

For more information, visit www. eera.gov.uk