Option WGW4 extends from the south of the Star Lane Brickworks to the north of Poynters Lane and will result in the coalescence of Great Wakering and Southend, as recognised in the consultation document. This is contrary to PPG2 which states that one of the key purposes of the green belt is to prevent neighbouring towns from merging into one another.

The proposed site only adjoins a built up area on part of its northern boundary and it is open in aspect to the east, south and west. By virtue of its location it will have a significant impact on the landscape and the openness green belt.

The site also adjoins Star Lane Pits to the north. This is a Local Wildlife Site identified in the Rochford District Local Wildlife Sites Review (2007) which forms part of the Local Development Framework evidence base. The ecological impact of siting development close to this Local Wildlife Site should be carefully considered.