Option E1 Baltic Wharf

Through proposed changes to the Core Strategy Submission Document (in response to representations 15740 Object and 15741 Object) it is proposed that Baltic Wharf, Essex Marina and other associated areas will be recognised as an exisitng substantial and major developed site in the Green Belt. Furthermore, the changes proposed by the Local Planning Authority state: "The redevelopment framework for the site should be recognised in the context of future expansion of the marina based facilities but including a broad range of developments and land uses". Consistency with Annex c of PPG2 is indicated as a guiding policy framework.
It is vital that the thrust of the policy framework in the Core Strategy is given a more detailed perspective in the Allocations DPD - enabling the physical extent of the major developed site to be defined, and the broad range of developments and uses to be set out. The current options for the Baltic Wharf site only recognise/allocate part of the site, and do so exclusively for employment/economic development. That is inconsistent with Annex C of PPG2 which would allow for a broader range of potential developments and uses. The Allocations DPD must reflect and be consistent with PPG2, and with Policy URV2 of the Core Strategy Submission Document.
The site identified in this option is not currently, and has not historically been, allocated exclusively for employment purposes. The DPD recognises that infrastructure improvements would need to be made to support the exisitng and future employment use of the site. The LPA must consider other appropriate land uses for the site. Indeed, the Core Strategy refers to a broad range of developments and land uses. A single use allocation is inappropriate as it provides no flexibility for changing economic and market circumstances. Allocation/identification of the site (along with other adjoining areas) as a defined major developed site in the Green Belt would be appropriate, particularly if coupled with a policy framework which would be consistent with Annex C of PPG2.

This site is within Flood Zone 3 and adjacent to the Main River Crouch. The Crouch and Roach Estuaries are nationally and internationally designated (SPA, SAC, Ramsar, SSSI) and potential impacts should therefore be considered. No 'highly vulnerable' uses as defined in Table D.2 of PPS25 should be included on this site.

Please see our general comments.

RE: ALLOCATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENTS



Thank you for giving Anglian Water the opportunity to comment on the above document.



Please find our comments summarized on the attached document.