This is my column for April’s edition of the village magazine.

Negotiations are continuing on an agreement between the council and the developer for use of the Lower Street car park for the proposed health centre, etc. building and to ensure it will still provide adequate public parking in future years.

Stansted is now facing four speculative planning applications in what has become a “first come, first served” service in Uttlesford. The failure of the council to produce a five-year supply of land for new housing means that national rules have taken over. Applications that are not significantly harmful to the local environment are likely to be approved. Three more developers have launched plans since last month. We now have four developers bidding for schemes at Bentfield Green, Walpole Farm, Elms Farm and Pines Hill. It is likely that some, but not all, will be approved regardless of local opinion. We are faced with some difficult months ahead. A Hobson’s choice is a “take it or leave it” choice. This situation feels like a “take it or get it” choice!

The first business breakfast at Linden House Hotel on March 1^st was a great success. It was a sell-out, so a few people had to be turned away. Just under 40 attendees tucked into a full English breakfast at 7.45 a.m. We heard from Guy Schooling about how Sworders’ Auctioneers has achieved international acclaim after moving from Bishop’s Stortford to Stansted Mountfitchet. Simon Jackson, the economic development officer from Uttlesford DC, spoke about plans the council has to support town centres and help grow business in the district. The economic development working group of district and parish councillors hopes to see a business-led forum grow from these breakfasts. The next breakfast will be on April 5th.