Thank you for notifying Essex County Council of the above consultation. The following is the response from Essex County Council (ECC) to Rochford Distict Council concerning the above Schedule of Proposed Modifications, covering matters relevant to ECCs statutory service provision and its function as Minerals and Waste Planning Authority. The response does not cover ECC as a landowner and/or prospective developer. A separate response will be made on these matters (if relevant) and that response should be treated in the same way as a response from other developers and/or landholders.'

ECC welcomes the opportunity to continue to work with Rochford DC, in respect of the on going re-development within South Essex. Overall ECC supports the proposed modifications and additional text in principle, which seek to address a number of our earlier concerns, as well as providing the necessary factual updates and clarification. In addition we are supportive of the proposed modifications as set out in the attached schedule.

In respect of the SA/SEA, we have the following comments:

ECC welcome the attached SA/SEA Addendum looking at the potential impacts resulting from the Schedule of Proposed Modifications. The approach effectively screens each MM for an impact on the previous SA, which is a welcomed and thorough approach. The content and deductions made appear adequate and reasonable.

It would have been useful for the SA to consider the cumulative effects of the amendments, and in those instances where uncertainties arise to have offered some mitigation measures / recommendations where possible.

Please contact me if you would like to clarify any comments raised.