DEVELOPMENT plans for Dunmow s eastern sector have reached a conclusion this week. Essex County Council has come up with a last minute cash boost for the project allowing Dunmow Town Council the creative freedom to build a public space to be proud of. The

DEVELOPMENT plans for Dunmow's eastern sector have reached a conclusion this week.

Essex County Council has come up with a last minute cash boost for the project allowing Dunmow Town Council the creative freedom to build a public space to be proud of.

The area, just off the High Street and the site for Dunmow's new library, has caused controversy for its design and disregard to Dunmow's proud heritage.

This was because the developer and Uttlesford District Council failed to provide enough funding for special building materials leading to town Cllr Trudi Hughes accusing UDC of selling the town short and doing the project "on the cheap."

The bad feeling between the two councils has been simmering for weeks now, but before any showdown for extra funding could take place, Essex County Council stepped in with a an extra £30,000.

Originally the project only had £50,000, which was enough for an all black asphalt area similar, but on a larger scale, to Angel Lane.

With the extra funding the figure now stands at £80,000.

Town clerk Owen Wilson spoke of his delight that further funding has been received. He said: "This means we can now progress in the way that is best for Dunmow.

"Many councillors have worked very hard on this project and it is great to see such a positive result."

Essex county councillor for Dunmow Susan Barker has played an instrumental role in securing the funding. She said: "The town council came to me to try and pull the project together. After making a few calls it was clear this was a project the county council wanted to back, its about time Great Dunmow got its share."

The town council has paid an £800 fee for drawings and costings from a professional quantity surveyor as the design stage nears completion.