Developers say plans include a school and a health centre, but an ambulance service raises concerns.

Canvey Island Town Council is facing pressure over perceived inaction on improving the town's lake.

Abbeyfield House in Hadleigh is to be bought to help provide extra accommodation for those in need.

Conservatives lose control of Thurrock and Basildon councils, and narrowly hold on to Harlow.

Admin errors are blamed for the Tory candidates no longer being eligible for the May election.

The housing minister has criticised the Essex councils for not producing housing plans quickly enough.

"We've got to take it on the chin," says Thurrock's Conservative MP Jackie Doyle-Price.

There are hopes new homes and shops could be built in a derelict part of an Essex town centre.