A MAJOR housing estate could be built on the boundary of Basildon putting pressure on the borough’s services.

Doctors, schools and the roads could all feel the strain of a 4,000 home garden village development on land south of the A127.

The proposed development is on land encompassing the Dunton Hills Golf Course and Dunton Hills Farm between Brentwood and Basildon. Basildon Council leader Andrew Baggott is concerned about the lack of discussion with the neighbouring authority about the impact on the borough.

He said: “It’s quite clear that Brentwood want to develop right up to the borders, it’s equally clear that it’s us with the infrastructure cost. We can either see how we can negotiate with Brentwood which might mean some houses there but then we get the infrastructure or we send them a stiff letter saying how disappointed we are.

“Those are the two options as I see it, but other people might have other options they might want to suggest they can be brought to be table.” Brentwood Council leader Louise McKinlay has since extended an invitation to Basildon Council.

She said: “We must be realistic and understand this is a 20-year project. As leader, I ensure that our neighbouring boroughs, including Basildon Council, are kept fully informed and included in the process and progress of the project.

“It’s always easy to criticise of course but we always work collaboratively and as such I encourage Basildon to come to the table and take part in building this future so it can properly represent the views of its own residents and share its plans for accommodating our growing housing pressure. We have the full support of Government which announced it had accepted proposal back in January 2017. Funding continues for this innovative new scheme and its full support for an area that will connect green spaces, enhance opportunities for work, business, family and life.”

The plans include an all through school, primary school, restaurants and shops.