Castle Point Borough Council has concerns regarding proposed allocations GT1 and NEL2.

The Council is concerned about the potential impact on the strategic highways network. The proposed allocations are located adjacent to the Fairglen Interchange. This is a key junction within the strategic highway network in South Essex. There are concerns that if the access arrangements for this site are not properly planned, the development of these allocations may impact on traffic flows at this junction. There is the potential that this may increase congestion and impact on accessibility for businesses and residents living across south east Essex, including those in Castle Point and Rochford.

It is acknowledged that the supporting text to these allocations requires highways matters to be assessed, and access and egress arrangements to be agreed with Essex County Council. It is understood that the landowners have appointed consultants to undertake this assessment work. Until the outcomes of this work are complete and made available for scrutiny, may I suggest that it would be premature to take this proposal forward.