The population of Epping Forest will increase by about 13,000 in ten years, a report has predicted.

The study, commissioned by Epping Forest District Council, was presented to the cabinet on Tuesday and concluded there would be 6,000 fewer people living in the district by 2023 than previous projections.

Previous predictions had been based on the 2001 census but the latest report included data from the national survey taken in 2011.

Because of the lower predicted growth, the authority may now propose fewer houses in the new Local Plan.

Previous estimates had called for 10,000 homes to be built in the district in the next 20 years, leading to concern over development on green belt land.

But Richard Bassett, planning portfolio holder, said there was still urgent need for new homes.

“I am pleased to see our new forecast still comes out significantly lower than the earlier projections produced before the 2011 census," he added.

“Even if no new families moved into the district, the fact that we are generally living longer and in smaller households means we would need more homes.”