BRENTWOOD and Basildon could soon be joined together by a major housing development on land spanning both their borders.

The two borough councils have agreed to investigate the potential for “significant house building” on land between West Horndon and Laindon.

But much of this land is classified green belt, so would have to be released before any plan could take shape.

Both councils are now putting together local development plans for the next 20 years.

Brentwood is hoping to designate land for 5,500 homes by Christmas. Basildon is expected to find land for 16,000 homes.

No specific sites, or house numbers, have so far been earmarked for the land, near the A127, which links the areas.

Barrie Stone is a farmer who owns fields on both sides of the border.

He has owned Friern Manor Farm, off Lower Dunton Road, for 18 years.

He has put his land forward as suitable for development and would be set to profit hugely, if it was released from the green belt.

He said: “If this was done together like this, there could be less impact on Brentwood and Basildon. We all realise the huge number of houses needed over the next few years.

“It is very good news for me personally as, don’t get me wrong, I would indeed profit from this, but I hope I am being fair-minded in that if it is done properly it will benefit the wider area.”

It is hoped by working together, the two councils can take pressure off other areas within their respective boroughs, as the homes can collectively count towards both of their targets.

Phil Baker, Brentwood Council’s planning committee chairman, is optimistic.

He said: “Having had an extensive consultation in Brentwood on the local plan last year, we have listened to our residents’ concerns about protecting the villages.

“We look forward to working with Basildon to explore the best way of delivering the new homes our residents and their families need in the future.”