Liberal Democrats on Harlow Council have voted to support proposals for 10,000 additional homes north of Harlow - so long as transport and other infrastructure is provided to support them. The meeting of the Full Council also voted overwhelmingly in favour, with all three parties and the lone independent backing the plans.

The government's consultation period on the proposals ends on 9 March, and Harlow's Lib Dem influenced council has exceeded its obligations by giving residents inside and outside the town the chance to express their views.

Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Chris Millington welcomed the changes the government had made to the 'confused' report from the independent inspector. He pointed out the need to address the serious housing shortage in the town, and to recognise Harlow as a key centre for development. Chris said:

"The plan also paves the way for Harlow to become a regional centre with better facilities for everyone. However, along with development, we are also keen to protect the town's green wedges and we will be stating this loud and clear to the Secretary of State."

Cllrs Ian Jackson and Jim Pailing from Netteswell both drew attention to Harlow's existing traffic problems that need to be resolved. Cllr Jackson said it would be important to clarify the future of the land at Harlow North that was currently in Hertfordshire; and that the lessons needed to be learned from the development of Church Langley.

Cllr Pailing, the council's design champion, also drew attention to the possibilities for improved rapid public transport provision, and options for providing imaginative starter home opportunities for the many local young people needing a first home.

Harlow Council's agreed position on plans for growth is to support:

• no housing in the green wedges


• 10,000 homes north of Harlow


• 8,000 homes within Harlow's current boundary


• a review of the green belt


• development and growth of Harlow on the basis of 'one community'


• no development to the south and west of the town


• integrated employment and growth


• eventual designation of Harlow as a regional centre


• provision of infrastructure to tackle current deficits and support growth


• transport improvements including an A414 bypass to a new junction on the M11.