A MAJOR new consultation on how the region should develop over the next 20 years has today (Wednesday) been launched. The East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) is asking residents for their views on how many new homes are needed in the period 2011 to

A MAJOR new consultation on how the region should develop over the next 20 years has today (Wednesday) been launched.

The East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) is asking residents for their views on how many new homes are needed in the period 2011 to 2031.

In the first stage, responses to four different approaches are being sought - with housing numbers ranging from 26,060 to 33,650 per year across the region's six counties.

Hertfordshire county councillor Derrick Ashley, who is also chairman of EERA's regional planning panel, spoke about the importance of the consultation

He said: "We need to plan for new homes so that first-time buyers, young families and others in housing need can buy or rent a home at a price they can afford.

"Businesses also need the confidence to invest in our region.

"But we also want to protect the environment and the quality of life for existing and future residents of the East of England.

"New development must be appropriate and supported by Government investment.

Cllr Ashley added: "We will look closely at all the responses to the consultation before publishing, in March 2010, a detailed plan for how many new homes are needed up to 2031.

The consultation is part of a wider review of the East of England Plan - a revised version of which will not be completed until 2011.

* You can find out full details about the consultation, which runs until November 24, at www.eera.gov.uk

Eleven consultation events are also being held across the region, where the public can hear more.

The nearest to Times Territory will be at Stevenage on September 9, and in Luton on September 22.

Book a place online at http://events.eera.gov.uk/conferences or contact organiser Jayne Cole on 01284 729405 or jayne.cole@eera.gov.uk