A COMMUNITY which has dealt with a "difficult past" revolving around disputes about traveller settlements is looking to move forward by setting up a neighbourhood forum.

Basildon Council is holding a public consultation after receiving an application to create a forum for residents in Hovefields Avenue, Hovefields Drive and Honiley Avenue, Wickford.

The Hovefields and Honiley Neighbourhood Forum would give residents greater power and influence over development proposals in their area.

David Walsh, chairman of the proposed forum, said: "Our community has had a very difficult past, mainly relating to disputes based around unauthorised developments by traveller communities.

"These events created a great deal of conflict and animosity between settled residents, traveller residents and Basildon Council, resulting in direct action being taken all in the glare of the national media.

"I am pleased to say our community has progressed since these times.

"Our residents have put these events behind them and a new community spirit is evolving where none existed before.

"We are learning to live together. I would be misleading if I led you to believe all is well, but it is a great deal better than it was."

Membership of the forum includes people from "all sections" of the community, Mr Walsh added.

He added the establishment of the forum was important at a time when proposals in Basildon Council's Draft Local Plan threatened to "reignite tensions" in the area.

A public consultation on the proposed forum runs until Tuesday, April 12.

Visit basildon.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplanning.