Two parish councils are applying to be given new powers to shape the future of their towns.

The areas of Buckhurst Hill and North Weald Basset are 'long-established, recognised and clearly defined areas', according to their applications to part in the neighbourhood plan scheme.

Both parish councils claim to have a 'clear mandate to speak or act on behalf of the residents'.

After a six-week consultation period, Epping Forest district council must decide whether to approve the scheme, before work on the new neighbourhood plan begins.

The plans can be used to decide where new homes and community facilities should be built, what they look like and how best to protect green spaces.

Moreton, Bobbingworth and the Lavers Parish Council, Chigwell Parish Council and Theydon Bois Parish Council are also working on a neighbourhood plan for their area.