A COUNCIL has used emergency delegated powers to approve items of business after a meeting was abandoned early.

The items now approved by Maldon District Council were set to be discussed at the meeting last week, on December 16.

This meeting was abandoned early after chairman of the district council Mark Heard closed the meeting early, citing disorderly conduct by councillor Chrisy Morris, so items weren't able to be debated.

It was the second time a council meeting was ended early.

Mr Heard said: “Whilst it is disappointing that members were not able to debate some of the great work that officers were due to present to council, it is important that we continue to deliver on these programmes of work.

“I am delighted that work can now begin on some really exciting initiatives which include; climate action, health and wellbeing, community safety and youth engagement to name just a few.

“Residents can be confident that the council will continue to conduct the important business and make decisions, and we will be providing more information on these programmes in the New Year.”

One of the items now approved which was set to be discussed is the One Maldon District.

The council has endorsed the approach to the formation of One Maldon District, enabling a senior level partnership between organisations and communities across the district to "work together effectively to improve the health and well-being of residents and to ensure community safety".

Another approved item is the council's response to the consultation on an application for a new residential development in South Woodham Ferrers.

The site is located where the Chelmsford City boundary meets the Maldon district boundary and therefore there are likely to be a number of impacts relating to the district.

Chelmsford City Council consulted Maldon District Council on a hybrid application, part full and part outline, at Land North West of Hamberts Farm in Burnham Road.

The plans include up to 1,020 homes, up to 88 bedroom units of residential care use, a neighbourhood centre including a multi-purpose community centre, business floorspace, a primary school and two 56 place early years facilities.

The council's response has now been approved and can be read in full online at bit.ly/33J64aD.