Thurrock Council would seek further clarification of the option of proposed concentrated growth (Option 3a West of Rayleigh) and potential implications in the area of Rawreth and Rayleigh. It is acknowledged that the Spatial Options Consultation provides only indicative information at this stage and that not all the land highlighted would necessarily come forward for development in this location if an option is taken forward in the plan. Depending on the size and scale of any development there is concern about the potential impact on the Green Belt and in particular the issues of coalescence of Wickford and Rayleigh.

However it is not clear how this proposal would be planned in relation to any expansion of Wickford settlement in possible collaboration with Basildon Council. The adjoining authorities are also proposing other development south of this proposal east and west of the A127/A130 junction at Fairglen. There is lack of clarity and information on how all these proposals are being considered in combination and that the cumulative impacts on the Green Belt, the environment, highway and other infrastructure have been considered and evidenced.

Thurrock Council recommends that Rochford Council undertake further collaboration with neighbouring local authorities and through ASELA to assess potential scale and impact of development options and in this location.