The authority is facing scrutiny from planning inspectors after proposing space for 6,196 homes in its draft local plan, well short of the 11,662 homes required under Government housing calculations. Council leaders argue the national methodology used to set housing targets fails to reflect the borough’s unique circumstances, including its environmental constraints, limited available land and infrastructure pressures. They also contend the target assumes neighbouring authorities could accommodate housing overspill from Castle Point, a scenario they say is unrealistic. The hearings will be crucial in deciding whether Castle Point’s plan can proceed in its current form. If approved, the local plan will guide development across the borough until 2043.