Q6. Which of the identified strategy options do you consider should be taken forward in the Plan?

I would like to suggest / feedback a couple of points

• there needs to be smaller homes / first homes for people rather than large family homes popping up - people trying to get on the housing ladder may need to start in a one/two bed flat in which I don’t see many built
• The infrastructure needs to be set up first... so let’s see cheaper public transport, adequate bike lanes and then see if more homes can be built in an area without it impacting on traffic
• Sustainability needs to be essential - houses with shared community allotments, solar panels, heat pumps etc... added bike lanes... I’m particularly interested in the Eco Village concept at Doggetts which sounds wonderful, I fully support this!

I have given up - having spent about 2 hours trying to work out/make sense of how to reply to your huge consultation.

I think this is one of the worst documents I have even seen put out for consultation. Perhaps that is the idea so people do not reply....

Here are my objections :

1. Our ROADS ARE SEVERE and cannot take ANY MORE TRAFFIC - people do not give up their cars and walk/cycle.

1a If you are going to build more houses, build them where they link immediately into the A127/A13 so people are not travelling through our towns and villages to get to the main link roads. The new housing in Hall Road and Hullbridge and Rawreth Lane makes sense - people go directly onto the main roads and away from the towns - I appreciate new houses must be built but keep them close to the main junctions so that the cars get away quickly.
Not stuck in traffic jams in Sutton Road, Ashingdon Road or speeding through villages and roads too heavy with traffic already, Stambridge Road, Brays Lane as an example.

2. Stambridge Infants and Juniors might be a good place to send your children - then they will need to go to SENIOR SCHOOL
SO KING EDMUND SCHOOL - YET MORE TRAFFIC ON THE ASHINGDON ROAD. WHICH CANNOT HANDLE ANY MORE BECAUSE IT IS SEVERE.

3. You mention that Great Stambridge is the most scenic of all the areas in SS4. Yet you are now thinking of adding extra housing, taking away our green belt. I'm sure Hullbridge was a nice quiet village once. We have more picturesque areas of beauty and many cyclists use our roads at the weekends for a bike ride. Where will they go when all the green fields are gone? Just built up areas everywhere? Concrete jungle?

4. THE PEOPLE OF ESSEX DO NOT WANT ROMFORD - THEY WANT ROCHFORD.

5. Stambridge Road CANNOT TAKE ANY MORE TRAFFIC, it was not built for the volume of traffic it currently takes, yet alone more. Our house shakes with the volume of traffic travelling at 60 mph through our village - not a minute goes by without a car now. Speeding 25 years ago nearly killed our son, crossing the road by The Royal Oak, hence the path was extended, 25 years later this road is even more hazardous for all villagers.

6. Planes going over our heads at 2am and 4am and speeding dangerous traffic not to be recommended to new home owners.

WE DO NOT HAVE THE INFRASTRUCTURE TO COPE

300+ CALLS TO GET THROUGH TO A DRS SURGERY IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. SCHOOLS AT CAPACITY.
ROADS SEVERELY CLOGGED UP AND CLASSED AS SEVERE - ONE LORRY UNLOADS IN SUTTON ROAD THE WHOLE OF ROCHFORD
COMES TO A STANDSTILL. - NOT GOOD ENOUGH ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL.

7. I would have thought it was fairly obvious the sentiment of the people of the area to the proposed Bloors Houses in Oxford Road, how people feel about more houses in this area. We simply cannot cope with any further housing.

8. RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC IS HORRENDOUS - TRAVEL ON WEDNESDAY 21 SEPTEMBER FROM WICKFORD TOWN CENTRE TO STAMBRIDGE TOOK AN HOUR - SITTING IN A HOT CAR JUST TRYING TO GET FROM WICKFORD TOWN TO RAWRETH LANE, YOU ONLY NEED TO LOOK AT HULLBRIDGE INTO ROCHFORD TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN NO NOTICE IS TAKEN OF CAPACITY OF OUR ROADS, TOTAL NIGHTMARE.

9. WE DO NOT WANT TO BECOME A SUBURB OF LONDON.

10 PLEASE RESUBMIT YOUR DOCUMENT QUESTIONS IN SMALLER CHUNKS SO PEOPLE CAN ACTUALLY MAKE SENSE OF IT.

The consultation held recently at the Fire Station, Hockley did nothing to reassure me that we will not be faced with the possibility of yet more development, no doubt without any additional infrastructure. It seems developers are able to re-engage on, including schools, medical surgeries, flood protection, etc., to large housing projects without any control.
We then have the added serious problem of ever increasing traffic volumes, and these development proposals all seem to involve feeding traffic onto the already congested B1013. I acknowledge there is a need for some housing but is it not time that RDC challenged the developers and government and at the very least to argue enough is enough and reduce the amount of development to a sensible level. I would also ask whether RDC has a chartered Ecologist following the mandatory Biodiversity Metric 3.0 launched by the Government. All large developments must provide Biodiversity nett gain leaving nature better off. Councils will still be able to reject proposals that threaten the ecology of the area.

CFS064
I am not at all happy with the possible housing plan site (CFS064) nor any other housing plans in and around the Rochford district.

I totally reject the field site (CFS064) being used for housing as the impact on the B1013 would be horrendous for traffic.

The Betts Farm estate would be put under further strain with increased traffic causing even more pollution and damage to peoples health.

The field in question has a locally important footpath running around its perimeter which is continually being used by walkers. It is also surrounded bu 3 small ancient woods which would be badly affected by a housing development, not to mention the severe impact on the wildlife habitat.

If the Planning Committee are intent on developing this land, then it is essential that the infrastructure is in place prior to any development taking place.

INTRODUCTION
1.1 These representations have been prepared by Pegasus Group on behalf of Taylor Wimpey Strategic Land in respect of their land interests in Rochford District Council (RDC).

1.2 These representations are submitted in response to the current Rochford Local Plan Regulation 18 ‘Spatial Options' consultation, which sets out the different growth
strategy options that could be pursued by the Council in the emerging Local Plan.

The evidence base accompanying the Spatial Options document includes a Site Appraisal Paper which identifies the suitability of potential sites for allocation, including Taylor Wimpey’s interests at:
• Site Reference CFS074: Land South of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell

1.3 The purpose of these representations is primarily to respond to the questions raised by the consultation to ensure there is a sound basis for emerging policies, as well as to support the most sustainable growth options of those set out in the consultation and reaffirm the deliverability (suitability, availability and viability) of
the above site and the exceptional circumstances in support of a minor revision to the Green Belt alongside the provision of a site-specific policy that allocates Land
South of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell, for residential development in the emerging Local Plan.

1.4 These representations build upon and should be read in conjunction with Taylor Wimpey’s previous representations to the Rochford Local Plan-making process, which included high-level technical assessments and an Illustrative Framework Plan. These early representations explained the opportunities available at the above site to deliver a high-quality and sustainable residential development with the ability to contribute positively towards the District’s significant housing needs.

2. SPATIAL OPTIONS DOCUMENT
2.1 This section responds to questions posed by the Spatial Options consultation in respect of Taylor Wimpey's interests in Rochford.

Question 1: Are there any other technical evidence studies that you feel the Council needs to prepare to inform its new Local Plan, other than those listed in this section?

2.2 The technical evidence that has been prepared and is yet to be prepared by the Council is agreed as being required to inform the preparation of a sound Local Plan
capable of effectively addressing local housing need. It is important to ensure the evidence is prepared under a robust and appropriate methodology and is subject
to scrutiny.

2.3 It is noted that the list of evidence includes a Settlement Role and Hierarchy Study (2021); this document is also referenced elsewhere within the Spatial Options document. However, this document is not available on either the consultation webpage or on the full evidence base webpage. This document should be made available for public review and Taylor Wimpey reserves the right to comment further once this document has been made available.

Question 4: Do you agree with the strategic priorities and
objectives we have identified? Is there anything missing from the strategic priorities or objectives that you feel needs to be included?

2.4 The strategic objectives identified by the Council are agreed as being broadly logical and suitable for guiding the formulation of strategic policies within the emerging
Local Plan. As will be explored later in these representations, Taylor Wimpey will be able to contribute towards achieving the objectives relevant to residential
development. In particular, Strategic Objective 1 (to deliver sufficient, high quality and sustainable homes to meet local community needs) and Strategic Objective 2
(to plan for the mix of homes needed to support RDC’s current and future residents) will be met through the delivery of a wide range of new open market and affordable homes. It is agreed that the delivery of new homes should be assigned great importance, as the new housing will help to meet existing housing need, improve
housing affordability for all and aid in meeting the economic objectives of achieving new business growth.

2.5 Taylor Wimpey support the reference in Strategic Objective 1 to the need to prioritise the development of previously developed land. However, it should also be
acknowledged that sufficient brownfield sites are not available to meet the District's minimum housing needs in full, as stated in the Spatial Options document and
supported by the RDC Urban Capacity Study (2020). It should be referenced that the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, 2021) allows for changes to Green
Belt boundaries through the Local Plan-making process where exceptional circumstances exist (paragraph 140) and where this promotes sustainable patterns of development (paragraph 142). In a district where approximately 70% of the land is Green Belt, some release of Green Belt land may be necessary in appropriate locations to achieve sustainable patterns of development in line with the NPPF.

Question 5: Do you agree with the settlement hierarchy
presented? If not, what changes do you think are required?

2.6 As mentioned in answer to Question 1, the Settlement Role and Hierarchy Study (2021) does not appear to have been made available on the Council's website at the time of writing. Our answer to Question 5 is therefore given without a review of this document, which forms an important part of the evidence base in relation to the specific matter of the settlement hierarchy. The adopted Core Strategy categorises Hockley (including Hawkwell) as a Tier 1 settlement, alongside
Rochford and Rayleigh. The proposed separation of Rayleigh into Tier 1 by itself does not necessarily mean Hockley (including Hawkwell) is not as sustainable. It
cannot be stated at this time whether the settlement hierarchy has been derived using a robust and objective process until the Settlement Role and Hierarchy Study
has been reviewed.

2.7 Notwithstanding the above, Taylor Wimpey considers the settlement hierarchy presented within the consultation document should identify the settlement of
Hockley (including Hawkwell) at or near the top of the settlement hierarchy (i.e. Tier 1 or 2) as per the adopted Core Strategy (2011). This would be commensurate
with the sustainability of this settlement in terms of the important services and facilities required to meet day-to-day needs that are available within accessible
distance for residents of this settlement. Hockley (including Hawkwell) is able to sustainably support additional growth, and its position within the settlement
hierarchy is agreed in that sense. However, the Local Plan process going forward should take care to appreciate that the sustainability of a settlement is not fixed; it can be bolstered as a result of new and additional development, which can help to support the provision of new services or support the vitality of existing services through an increase in use and custom.

Question 6: Which of the identified strategy options do you consider should be taken forward in the Plan?

2.8 Taylor Wimpey supports the aim of the Council to ensure sufficient growth takes place over the local plan period to meet local housing need requirements as based on the use of the standard method to calculate the minimum housing needs for the District in line with paragraph 61 of the NPPF (2021). The Spatial Options document identifies a housing requirement of 7,200 homes (between 2020 – 2040) based on the standard method (i.e. 360 dwellings per annum).

2.9 Moreover, the consultation identifies a potential growth option of up to 10,800 new homes (2020 – 2040), representing the Standard Methodology + 50% which could help drive local economic growth or address unmet needs from elsewhere.

2.10 Taylor Wimpey strongly supports the Council's ambition to explore the opportunity to accommodate additional growth above that required by the standard method, to take on unmet need from neighbouring authorities in accordance with the NPPF requirement for Local Plans to be positively prepared. The neighbouring authorities are highly constrained both geographically and spatially, such as through large areas of Green Belt and areas of high flood risk. In general, the neighbouring
authorities have faced significant challenges in delivering sufficient levels of housing to meet identified housing needs. Southend-on-Sea to the south of Rochford District is particularly constrained with tight boundaries leaving limited available space for new development. Southend has a minimum housing requirement using the Standard Methodology of 1,180 new homes per annum and highlighted within their recent Local Plan Reg 18 consultation (2019) that even with Green Belt release, Southend will only be able to deliver around 20,000 new homes and that to meet their full requirements, neighbouring authorities such as Rochford will need to assist in the delivery of the additional 3,620 dwellings in the period 2020-2040. Rochford District will therefore need to make all possible efforts to accommodate housing above the levels required by the standard method to encourage economic growth and/or meet unmet needs arising from neighbouring authorities, acknowledging that this is a minimum requirement in light of the national priority to significantly boost the supply of housing in line with paragraph 60 of the NPPF. This will ensure the Local Plan is capable of meeting both Rochford District's needs as well as unmet need arising from Southend-on-Sea.

2.11 Taking the identified strategy options in turn. Option 1 (Urban Intensification) would not deliver a sufficient level of housing to meet identified needs, and it is
agreed that following this strategy would not result in a Local Plan being put forward that is sound in accordance with national policy. The strategy also relies too heavily
on committed developments and there is a risk that these developments will not deliver the expected levels of housing during the Plan period, with significant adverse social and economic impacts on the District as a result.

2.12 Option 3 (Concentrated Growth) is also not supported. It is considered that pursuing a growth option that focuses solely on the three towns Rayleigh, Southend and Rochford, would not lead to a sustainable level of growth. The Plan should seek to meet the needs of residents across the entire District; existing residents are likely to want to buy a home close to their existing ties to the local community and family. New growth should therefore be sensibly dispersed across the District to all settlements. Furthermore, Option 3 would lead to a high reliance on a few key strategic sites. Such large scale sites are likely to have slow rates of delivery; this
would make it difficult to meet the local housing requirement and maintain the rolling 5-year supply of housing required by paragraph 68 of the NPPF. Strategic
sites may also be subject to other risks to delivery, such as viability if the sites are also required to fund pieces of strategic infrastructure. In addition to delivery, this may also affect the level of affordable housing such strategic sites are able to deliver.

2.13 Option 2 (Urban Extensions) is strongly supported as it presents a strategy that would allow for sustainable growth to take place across the District, including the
organic growth of smaller settlements. This would allow the delivery of the Districts local housing needs as required by national policy for a sound Local Plan to be
adopted. The delivery of housing to meet local need would ensure the exceptional circumstances required for the release of land from the Green Belt could be met. It
is considered reasonable to disperse growth to all settlements as guided by the settlement hierarchy. This would ensure growth takes place in the towns and large
settlements that have the services and facilities needed to sustainably support a higher level of growth, while also ensuring smaller rural settlements can organically
grow in the manner required to sustain the vitality of the villages and meet the housing needs of local residents.

2.14 Taylor Wimpey is also in broad support of Option 4 (Balanced Combination) which combines elements of the above three options. A balanced combination of all
options would negate the negative outcomes of Option 1 not delivering sufficient levels of housing growth, as well as the risks associated with Option 3's reliance on a few key strategic sites. It would still allow for sustainable growth to take place in a dispersed manner across the District. It would however be key to get the balance
between the different options correct. It may be that under option 4, there is a need to ensure sufficient smaller urban extensions are allocated so they can be
brought forward early in the plan period to ensure there is no heavy reliance on the delivery of large strategic sites – as there are still risks associated with under-
delivery on large sites. A balanced approach to allocating a variety of sites both in terms of size and location will also have far greater potential to deliver a wide mix
of housing types and styles.

Question 9: Do you agree we should take a sequential approach to flood risk and coastal change in our plan, locating development away from areas at risk of flooding and coastal change wherever possible? How can we best protect current and future communities from flood risk and coastal change?

2.15 In answer to the first part of question 9, Taylor Wimpey agrees that a sequential approach needs to be applied in allocating sites, as required paragraph 161 of the NPPF. This should be recognised as placing a further constraint on potential suitable land available for development and further necessitating the release of suitable Green Belt to ensure sustainable development can take place.

Question 11: Do you agree we should require development to source a percentage of their energy from low-carbon and renewable sources? Are there other opportunities in the District to supply low-carbon or renewable energy?

2.16 Taylor Wimpey fully supports the transition towards a zero carbon economy and for new development to be as sustainable as possible, which includes new homes
that are energy efficient and minimise carbon emissions. Taylor Wimpey is committed to being a sustainable housebuilder and continues to incorporate sustainability into their business practices, helping to create better homes and communities and a stronger business for the longer term.

2.17 It should be recognised in the emerging Local Plan that before thinking about how 'green' the energy used is, it should first be considered how energy use itself can
be minimised. This includes ensuring the construction of homes is undertaken in a manner that allows the effective retention/insultation of heat in the winter and
natural cooling in the summer, ensuring less energy is required to heat the home and take a fabric first approach in the design of houses to further improve energy efficiency. All of these measures are secured under the relevant Building Regulations, an uplift to which will be secured through the implementation of the
forthcoming Future Buildings Standards.

2.18 The need to require development to source a percentage of their energy requirement from low-carbon and renewable sources should be assessed against
the above energy efficiency requirements. The actual percentage should also be calculated with regard to potential impacts on the viability of future developments,
and the financial costs for implementation will need to be considered in the Local Plan Viability studies.

Question 12: Do you agree we should require new development to achieve energy efficiency standards higher than building regulations? What level should these be set at?

2.19 As explained above, the forthcoming new Building Regulations, which all development will be required to comply with, will ensure that all new homes that are built in the future will be built to a high energy efficiency standard. There is considered to be no beneficial need to require energy efficiency standards above those required by the new Building Regulations which will be in place upon adoption of the Local Plan. If the Council is to consider applying higher energy efficiency standards, robust evidence will be required supporting such a requirement. The evidence should include an assessment demonstrating no adverse impact on the
viability of future proposed developments.

Question 14. Do you consider that the plan should include a placemaking charter that informs relevant policies? Should the same principles apply everywhere in the District, or should different principles apply to different areas?

Question 15: Are the principles set out in the draft place-making charter the right ones? Are there other principles that should be included?

2.20 In answer to question 14, Taylor Wimpey has no objections with a District-wide place-making charter that can form the basis for site-specific decision making. The
importance of good design in creating attractive and liveable places is wellunderstood. The place-making charter should clearly appreciate that each site is
unique, with different contexts, constraints and opportunities that will need to be taken into account.

2.21 However, it is not entirely clear what policy position such a charter would hold in the Local Plan and the level of consideration the decision maker will need to give
to the character. Thus, in answer to Question 15, it should be made clear how the charter should be read in relation to specific policies. Then it would be relevant to
consider what principles are appropriate to contain in a charter. At this stage, it is considered that any charter included as guidance should be high-level and
overarching, with specific detail to be provided in the accompanying development management policies. This will avoid the duplication of local planning policies, as
encouraged by paragraph 15 of the NPPF. The local plan policies themselves will need to consistent with the relevant provisions of the NPPF and national guidance.

Question 16a. Do you consider that new design guides, codes or masterplans should be created alongside the new Local Plan?
Question 16b. If yes, do you think it is more appropriate to have a single design guide/code for the whole District, or to have design guides/codes/masterplans for individual settlements or growth areas?
Question 16c. What do you think should be included in design guides/codes/masterplans at the scale you are suggesting?

2.22 The need to produce design guides, codes or masterplans alongside the new Local Plan is questioned. The production of such documents is likely to take considerable time, particularly if the Council intends to seek to adopt or endorse a design document for each proposed allocation. This would inevitably delay the Local Plan process and delivery of new homes as the Council's resources are drawn away.

2.23 Instead, Taylor Wimpey suggests that design codes or masterplans should only be encouraged at such an early stage for large strategic urban extensions that are of a scale and mix of land uses where a design code document would be helpful in regularising design principles across the entire site and/or ensuring a coordinated approach to the delivery of strategic allocations where multiple landownerships/interests are present.

2.24 For smaller scale extensions and developments (i.e. single ownership developments of <500 dwellings), it is considered that the masterplans and other design material that is submitted at the planning application stage, which may include Design Codes prepared by the Applicant in consultation with RDC and the local community at the Planning Application stage, would be sufficient for allowing the Council to provide input and ensure the correct design principles are being delivered.

Question 17. With reference to the options listed above, or your own options, how do you feel we can best plan to meet our need for different types, sizes and tenures of housing?

2.25 Taylor Wimpey considers that proposed Option 2 would provide a suitable approach to address the District’s housing need. This option would allow an element of certainty that overall housing needs will be met, while also allowing flexibility for local site-specific factors to influence the housing mix a development provides at the application stage. These factors could range from site-specific environmental or technical constraints and opportunities to local market intelligence and demographics indicating a need for certain types and tenures of housing. Option 2 would align with the NPPFs objective of creating strong, vibrant and healthy
communities (paragraph 8) that are mixed and well-balanced (paragraph 63).

2.26 However, it is considered that Option 3 would also operate well in conjunction with Option 2. Allocating specific sites for specialist housing for older people and selfbuild and custom-build housing in particular would allow the housing need to be addressed where it is most needed, which is in line with the recommendations of
the Planning Practice Guidance.

2.27 Taylor Wimpey further support Option 5 which requires all homes to be built to Nationally Described Space Standards, Option 6 requiring all homes to meet Part M4(2) (accessible and adaptable homes), and Option 7 requiring a suitable proportion of new homes to meet Part M4(3) (wheelchair user dwellings). However,
as is required by the NPPF (footnote 49) and supporting national guidance, these options will require sufficient evidence to be gathered and provided by the Council
to support the need for these requirements, and whether it is appropriate for all homes to meet these requirements rather than a proportion of new homes. As footnote 49 states, the Council will need to demonstrate through robust evidence that there is an identified need that would be met through the application of the Part M4(2) and Part M4(3) optional standards. The need to apply the internal space standards must also be justified. The Planning Practice Guidance expands on this to explain that the evidence produced must also take into consideration viability and site-specific factors in addition to need, ensuring that the application of these additional standards does not risk the delivery of new homes.

Question 31. Do you consider net gains for biodiversity are best delivered on-site or off-site? Are there specific locations or projects where net gain projects could be delivered?

2.28 Taylor Wimpey considers it is for the Council to undertake research and identify a suitable pipeline of sites towards which off-site biodiversity net gain contributions could be made. Biodiversity net gain should be delivered on-site wherever possible; however the possibility of off-site net gains should not be discounted for developments that are constrained geographically or by viability or other factors. Taylor Wimpey is committed to protecting and enhancing the biodiversity of its sites wherever possible.

2.29 Taylor Wimpey recognises that climate change, declining nature and other environmental problems are increasingly becoming a threat to the wellbeing of
people today and future generations. In respect of Land south of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell (CFS074), Taylor Wimpey has commissioned an initial Phase 1 ecology survey and assessment (Appendix A) which demonstrates the potential for a measurable biodiversity net-gain to be delivered on the site through habitat
creation and restoration. Developments which can demonstrate Biodiversity Net Gain should be looked upon favourably by RDC both when allocating sites within
the emerging Local Plan and when determining schemes at Planning Application stage.

Question 34. With reference to your preferred Strategy Option, are there opportunities for growth to help deliver new strategic green and blue infrastructure?

2.30 In respect of Option 3 which requires new developments to provide on-site green and blue infrastructure, and/or contribute towards off-site green and blue infrastructure. Taylor Wimpey supports the provision of such local infrastructure, which can help to mitigate the impacts of flooding and contribute towards creating and improving wildlife habitats and enhancing the character and appearance of newdevelopment.

2.31 Land south of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell (CFS074), is capable of contributingtowards the objective of creating enhanced local green infrastructure. As indicated on the Illustrative Landscape and Ecological Masterplan (Figure 9, Appendix B) the site has the potential to enhance the existing vegetation on the site through new planting such as shrubs, wildflower grassland and hedgerow. The landscape proposals also provide a new community orchard, new woodland planting and tree lined streets. These improvements to green infrastructure would help deliver the objectives of the South Essex Green and Blue Infrastructure Strategy, in particular the creation of the Central Woodlands Arc Regional Parkland and enhancements to the Upper Roach Valley to create a successful ‘green lung’ through the District.

Figure 1: Illustrative Landscape and Ecological Masterplan
[see document for image]

2.32 This local green infrastructure would enhance existing biodiversity, create an attractive landscaped setting for the new homes and enhance the leisure
opportunities available for both new and existing residents in Hawkwell, thereby delivering wider health and well-being benefits also. The site provides opportunities for links to be provided to the existing Public Rights of Way network located on the site boundaries, which will improve permeability and ease with which access can be gained to the wider countryside.

2.33 In terms of blue infrastructure, the submitted information further indicatively shows that the scheme has the potential to provide a network of ponds or swales that could create a new 'blue' corridor within the open space to the west. These ponds would complement the SuDS basins that will be provided within the developable,
eastern part of the site to deliver additional benefits. The blue infrastructure would help to mitigate the risk of flooding by assisting with the flow of water away from
homes, as well as provide ecological enhancements and assist in creating a naturalistic open space area to be enjoyed by residents.

2.34 It is noted that Option 3 states 'certain new developments' will be required to provide or contribute towards local green and blue infrastructure projects. As this objective is developed into a policy, it will be important to ensure that the threshold where Option 3 will apply to developments is made clear.

Question 35. With reference to the options above, or your own options, how can we address the need for sufficient and accessible community infrastructure through the plan?
Question 36. With reference to your preferred Strategy Option, are there opportunities for growth to deliver new or improved community infrastructure?

2.35 Taylor Wimpey supports in principle the options that are suggested for meeting community infrastructure needs through the Local Plan. The options should be
maintained as being non-exclusive, so flexibility can be maintained to allow infrastructure needs to be met in the most appropriate manner for each settlement and site location.

2.36 The infrastructure that will be required to support the delivery of Taylor Wimpey's interests in Hawkwell will be set out in further detail in the Infrastructure Delivery
and Funding Plan that is to be prepared by the Council. However, Taylor Wimpey is committed to investing in complementary infrastructure that is evidentially
required to support the delivery of new homes at this location. It is noted that
Hockley (including Hawkwell) is a sustainable settlement containing many of the services and facilities required to support the day-to-day needs of residents.
Contributions could be made towards this existing infrastructure as required to ensure sufficient capacity exists for the services to continue supporting existing and
new residents. The site also has the potential to provide new community infrastructure, such as land for education and/or healthcare which will complement existing facilities, subject to viability and clear evidence that additional infrastructure is required.

Question 38. With reference to the options above, or your own options, how do you feel we can best meet our open space and sport facility needs through the plan?
Question 41. With reference to your preferred Strategy Option, are there opportunities for growth to help deliver improvements to open space or sport facility accessibility or provision?

2.37 The proposed Option 4 is of direct relevance to Taylor Wimpey in this instance, as it suggests requiring new developments to provide new open space or contribute towards enhancing existing infrastructure. Taylor Wimpey fully supports the objective of ensuring the open space and recreation needs of residents are met.

2.38 As illustrated on the submitted Development Framework Plan (Appendix C), the masterplanning for the site has been heavily influenced by the landscape strategy. This strategy seeks to maintain and enhance existing green infrastructure as explained in our response to Question 34 above. Nearly 50% of the site area is to
be maintained as green infrastructure and public open space, significantly above planning policy requirements. This will have the dual benefit of creating a defensible
boundary with the Green Belt, and creating new public open space to be enjoyed by all members of the local community, delivering enhanced opportunities for
recreation and social interaction, alongside the health and well-being benefits this brings.

2.39 In addition to the amenity green space that can be enjoyed for both leisure and activity, circular footpaths will be provided around the open space to encourage
walking within and through the open space. New woodland and orchard planting will provide visual amenity within the open space, as will the 'blue corridor' of ponds or swales. Formal play areas will be provided in accessible locations within the scheme, that will be open for use by all residents both new and existing. This will
therefore help to increase access to play space for residents of Hockley (including Hawkwell) in the vicinity of site CFS074. The objectives put forward by the Council are supported by Taylor Wimpey as contributing towards meeting the requirement in the NPPF (paragraph 92) for healthy places with accessible green infrastructure.

Question 46. With reference to the options listed above, or your own options, how do you think we can best plan for vibrant town centres in Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley? How can we also ensure our village and neighbourhood centres remain vibrant?

2.40 Taylor Wimpey supports the objective of ensuring the continued vibrancy of the District's town and neighbourhood centres, including those at Hockley and
Hawkwell. We do not seek to provide an opinion on how the Council can best plan to achieve this objective, however it is considered important to understand that
new growth is required if vibrancy and vitality is to be maintained. This will bring new custom for existing businesses in centres, and provide opportunities for new
business to come forward.

Question 51. With reference to the options above, or your own options, how do you feel we can best address our transport and connectivity needs through the plan?

2.41 Taylor Wimpey considers the options presented are logical approaches to explore further towards the goal of improving connectivity within the District. Option 2 is
relevant to Land South of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell, and Taylor Wimpey would support appropriate contributions that are evidenced by a robust Infrastructure Delivery Plan as being required to support the development.

2.42 It is to be noted however that Land south of Mount Bovers Lane (CFS074) is located in a sustainable location that benefits from convenient access to local services and facilities via various modes of sustainable travel. This is demonstrated in the Sustainability Appraisal which accompanies these representations (Appendix D).

2.43 There are pedestrian and cycling routes leading towards the centre of Hawkwell where several services are located within comfortable walking or cycling distance of the site. This would reduce the reliance on day-to-day travel by private car. For locations further afield, travel by bus and train is available from bus stops adjacent to the site and Hockley train station located around 20 minutes' walk from the site. Both modes of public transport receive frequent services.

Question 58a. Do you agree with our vision for Hockley and Hawkwell? Is there anything you feel is missing?

2.44 The vision statement presented is broadly supported and as highlighted above site CFS074 provides clear opportunities to contribute positively towards the green lung of the Upper Roach Valley through the provision of new woodland landscaping and
biodiversity net gain. Moreover, the aim to address housing affordability is fully supported, but will only be addressed through the provision of viable market
housing developments capable of delivering Affordable Housing.

Question 58b. With reference to Figure 46 and your preferred Strategy Option, do you think any of the promoted sites should be made available for any of the following uses? How could that improve the completeness of Hockley and Hawkwell?
i. Housing [market, affordable, specialist, traveller, other]
ii. Commercial [offices, industrial, retail, other]
iii. Community infrastructure [open space, education, healthcare,
allotments, other]
iv. Other

2.45 As mentioned in answer to Question 6, Taylor Wimpey supports following a strategy that allows growth in all settlements across the District, including Hockley and Hawkwell, at a level that is appropriate to the sustainability of each settlement. Hockley and Hawkwell is identified within the adopted Core Strategy (2011) as a
Tier 1 settlement, and the current Spatial Options Document proposes Hockley (including Hawkwell) as a Tier 2 settlement below only Rayleigh. This is
commensurate with the settlement being one of the most sustainable in the District, and its ability to support additional housing. It is clear that Hockley and
Hawkwell are eminently sustainable, as illustrated on Figure 43 which shows that residents are within walking distances of the range of services and facilities that
are available.
[see attached document for image]

2.46 For this site in particular, the following range of services and facilities are located close to the site, as further expanded within the accompanying Sustainability
Appraisal (Appendix D):
[see attached document for table showing accessibility from site to key destinations and facilities]

2.47 Hockley Train Station is also located just 1.5km / 20-minutes walking distance to the north.

2.48 Hockley, which is in close proximity to the site, supports a further range of local retail and employment opportunities.

2.49 On this basis, Taylor Wimpey strongly supports the 'allocation' of site reference CFS074 for up to 400 new homes and significant green infrastructure as illustrated
below. The site is also capable of contributing towards appropriate on-site or offsite social / physical infrastructure if further evidence demonstrates a need for such infrastructure.
[see attached document for masterplan of site]

Site Deliverability
2.50 The suitability and benefits of this site have been comprehensively presented in previous submissions to the Local Plan-making process, including in
representations to the Regulation 18 Issues and Options Consultation in 2018. This submission was accompanied by technical input and Taylor Wimpey are committed
to working collaboratively with the Council to ensure the timely delivery of the proposed allocation. The following seeks to further reiterate the deliverability and
suitability of the site for residential development in response to the 'scoring' of the site in the RDC Site Appraisal Paper (2021) as presented below. The scores given follow a scale as replicated in the figure below
[see attached document for screenshot of site appraisal criteria]

Drainage
[see attached document for screenshot of site appraisal scores]
2.51 The site is located within Flood Zone 1 (lowest risk) as defined by the Environment Agency. The site is therefore considered sequentially preferable for residential development in flood risk terms, and the score of 5 (best performing) is agreed with.

2.52 The score of 2 for 'critical drainage risk' appears to have been informed by a highlevel view of the surface water flood risk for the site. Mapping on the Environment
Agency long term flood risk website illustrates that the central valley of the site is associated with low to medium risk of flooding from surface water, with some areas
on the eastern boundary and areas within the western half of the site being associated with low to high risk of flooding from surface water.
[see attached document for screenshot on EA surface flood risk map]

2.53 However, this is a matter that can be suitably addressed through any future planning application, which would be supported by a surface water drainage
strategy incorporating Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS). The Illustrative Landscape and Ecological Masterplan (Appendix B) illustrates how the
matter of surface water flood risk can be mitigated, through the inclusion of SuDS basins and swales through the centre of the site where the valley is located. The
location and design of the basins and swales will be subject to further detailed drainage assessment, however it is considered that a scheme can be designed that
effectively mitigates the risk of surface water flooding.

Green Belt and Landscape Impact
[see attached document for screenshot of site appraisal criteria]

2.54 The site is located within the Green Belt, albeit being directly adjacent to the existing settlement edge of Hawkwell. It is acknowledged that the Green Belt
designation carries significant weight as a material consideration, with the NPPF being clear that Green Belt boundaries should only be altered in exceptional
circumstances (paragraph 140). The site is also located within the Upper Roach Valley Landscape character area which seeks to protect a ‘green lung’ and landscapes of value (noting it also aims to promote recreation).

2.55 As explored earlier, Rochford District is highly constrained with limited opportunities to accommodate sufficient levels of growth outside the Green Belt.
The evidence base produced by the Council indicates there are not sufficient nonGreen Belt sites available to meet local housing needs. The Urban Capacity Study
(2020) found that urban sites may deliver between 3,300 and 5,000 sites over 10-
15 years. The Council has identified the need for a minimum of 7,200 new homes to be delivered over the Local Plan period, and at least 10,800 homes when a buffer is applied and the potential to accommodate unmet need from neighbouring authorities is taken into account, as Taylor Wimpey considers is required.
Furthermore, the most sustainable sites that are going to be available for potential allocation and development will be within the Green Belt, as the settlements identified in the settlement hierarchy as being the most sustainable and capable of accommodating new growth lie within the Metropolitan Green Belt.

2.56 There will be harm associated with the release of Green Belt land. However, the inherent shortfall in brownfield land available for development and the ability of Green Belt land to delivery sustainable patterns of development provides, in our view, the exceptional circumstances required to amend the Green Belt boundary.
The Green Belt Study (2020) prepared by the Council concludes (the Stage 1 Assessment) by stating at paragraph 3.39 that other than a few pockets of Green
Belt, the majority of the assessed land continues to serve the Green Belt purposes well.

2.57 It is noted here that our 2018 submissions included an independent Green Belt Assessment of the site which concluded that the site makes limited or no contribution to four of the Green Belt purposes, except for purpose 3 'safeguarding the countryside from encroachment' to which it was considered a partial contribution is made. Taylor Wimpey considers this appraisal remains valid and the value of this site to the Green Belt is limited and that any harm arising from its removal from the Green Belt would also be limited.

2.58 Notwithstanding this, paragraph 3.39 of the Green Belt Study (2020) does go on to state that the most sustainable sites for potential allocation may be located in areas that make a strong contribution to the Green Belt purposes. The contribution that a site makes must therefore be weighed against other relevant factors that
determine the suitability of a site for development, such as the existence (or lack thereof) of site-specific constraints, proximity to sustainable settlements and
transport connectivity.

2.59 A Landscape and Visual Appraisal, including Green Belt Appraisal (Appendix B), has been prepared to accompany these representations. The report considers the landscape and visual constraints the site is subject to, based on the potential impacts arising from the proposed development. This appraisal has in turn informed the creation of an Illustrative Landscape Masterplan, which demonstrates that a residential scheme that is led by robust landscape principles can be created that will be 'physically contained and have clear defensible boundaries', as well as make 'a positive contribution to the recreational aspects of the landscape in respect of the Upper Roach Valley.' A significant area of open space is proposed on the western half of the site (far in excess of policy requirements) which will further
contain the built form to remain in line with the existing extension of the settlement edge into the landscape.

2.60 With the implementation of the proposed landscape strategy, which will be formulated further as detailed design takes place, to create an appropriately designed residential scheme, the Appraisal demonstrates that the site would have only limited landscape and visual effects at a localised level and that such impacts can successfully be avoided or reduced through appropriate mitigation. The proposed inclusion of substantially improved areas of local green and blue infrastructure in addition to open greenspace will also allow the creation of a defensible Green Belt boundary, limiting the risk of additional 'sprawl' as well as creating an appropriate interface between the settlement edge and the wider
countryside.

2.61 Consequently, development of site CFS074 would complement the character of the wider landscape context and enhance the function of the Upper Roach Valley's as
a 'green lung' through the District. Any limited impacts can be mitigated and enhanced through the proposed landscaping strategy, with recreational benefits
arising from the proposed green infrastructure which will provide new health and wellbeing outcomes for existing and future residents of Hawkwell. An appropriate,
robust and enduring boundary to the Green Belt can therefore be created.

2.62 As such, the low scores given on Green Belt and Landscape Impact by the RDC Site Appraisal are challenged for the reasons set out above and should not preclude consideration of the site for allocation. Notwithstanding this, the discussion on other factors in answer to question 58b clearly demonstrates the suitability and sustainability of the site; this must be weighed against the potential harm caused to the Green Belt and in our opinion provides sufficient reason for further consideration of this site in later Local Plan stages.

Biodiversity
[see attached document for screenshot of site appraisal criteria]
2.63 Taylor Wimpey supports the scores given to the site relating to biodiversity. A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal has been undertaken which confirms that that the site is of limited ecological interest.

2.64 The proposed strategy set out in the Illustrative Landscape and Ecology Masterplan would therefore have the benefit of providing a measurable improvement of habitat and biodiversity net gain on the site.

2.65 The site itself is not covered by any statutory habitat designations. However, the site is located close to the Hockley Woods SSSI which is a nationally designated
ancient woodland. While development of the site would not result in any direct impacts on the SSSI, there is the potential for indirect impacts through additional
recreational pressure resulting from new residents. The site proposes to provide a significant amount of greenspace on the site, which will effectively mitigate the
recreational pressure that might otherwise be generated on surrounding environmental designations.

Heritage
[see attached document for screenshot of site appraisal criteria]
2.66 The scores relating to heritage are not considered to be accurate. A Heritage Statement has been prepared (Appendix E) which contains an assessment of potential impacts arising from the proposed development on the historic environment. In terms of archaeology, a review of the available recorded data indicates that there are unlikely to be any below ground remains which are of
historical interest. The potential for significant archaeological remains from any historical period is considered to be low. The score relating to impact on
archaeology should therefore be a 5 (i.e. best performing), as any potential impacts can be comfortably mitigated by way of a planning condition at the planning
application stage, which would control development of the site until the desktop findings have been confirmed through further investigation.

2.67 In terms of built heritage, there are a few Grade II listed buildings in the vicinity of the site but only two that may be impacted by the proposed development. The
Grade II listed Sweynes Farmhouse is located north-east of the site, however it is considered the site does not contribute to the significance of this asset and is not
a constraint to development of the site. The Grade II listed Mount Bovers is located to the west and a small part of the site was historically associated with the function of the heritage asset. To preserve the significance of the listed building, it is therefore proposed that a setback is maintained in the western part of the site, with an associated enhancement of vegetation on the north-western boundaries. As the emerging masterplan for this site proposes the retention of the entirety of the western half of the site as open greenspace with significant new planting, this setback will be comfortably provided for and maintained and it is considered that there will be no impact on this designated heritage asset. The score relating to built
heritage should therefore be at least a 4 (better performing).

Sustainability
[see attached document for screenshot of site appraisal criteria]
2.68 The scores relating to the sustainability of the site are broadly agreed with, although a Sustainability Appraisal (Appendix D) has been prepared which refutes
the scores given on some elements, as will be explored below.

2.69 The existing bus stops are located close to the site boundary on Main Road and Hall Road, at most around 10 minutes' walk for homes located furthest from the Hall
Road bus stop – with most homes being located at a much closer distance. Given the close proximity and convenient access to bus stops the score should be a 5
(best performing).

2.70 Similarly, the score for access to bus services is currently too low and should be at least a 4 (moderate positive). The no.8 bus service provides a regular and frequent service (every 30 minutes) on a weekday, allowing convenient access towards Hockley Town Centre, Rayleigh, Southend-on-Sea and Great Wakering. This bus service provision also means the score for access to town centre should be at least a 4 (moderate positive) rather than 1 (negative), as Hockley town centre is very accessible from the site, if not by bus then also by walking and/or cycling.

2.71 Other bus services are also available, and whilst less frequent they provide travel options to other settlements. There are bus shelters available for 3 of the 4 closest bus stops to the site, with the potential for improvements to be made to encourage use of the bus services.

2.72 The bus services available include providing travel to Hockley train station, which is otherwise around 20 minutes' walk from the site. This is considered to offer good access, making travel by train to settlements further afield or for commuting a feasible option. Indeed, the station provides frequent and regular trains towards
Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street. The score for access to train services should be at least a 5 (positive).

2.73 The score of a 5 for access to walking infrastructure is strongly supported; the site is extremely well-connected and as the evidence within the Spatial Options Document illustrates there are plenty of opportunities to walk to everyday services and facilities within Hawkwell or even to Hockley centre. The footways are of a good quality and attractive, being safe and traversable. The score of 3 (moderately performing) for cycling is accepted, as while the roads in the vicinity of the site are suitable for cycling to local facilities, there is no formal infrastructure that can be utilised to encourage cyclists with less confidence.

2.74 The relevance of the scoring for access to the strategic road network is not clear. The A127 and A130 are accessible from the site, and are of a similar distance from the current site as they are from elsewhere in the district. The sustainability of the site lessens the reliance on the strategic road network. Furthermore, this is a
residential scheme where trips for day-to-day needs will be made locally – the SRN is not as significant as it would be for an employment scheme.

2.75 Turning to the scores given for access to facilities such as primary school, healthcare and any other centre (in this instance Hockley centre). The scores given are broadly agreed with as they acknowledge the sustainability of the site given the close proximity of these services. It should be acknowledged however that
certain services within Hockley centre such as the Co-Op (Supermarket), Pharmacy and Post Office are very close to the site (around 10 minutes' walk) and could
therefore be given a score of 5 (best performing). Similarly, the Practice Hawkwell (health centre) is also around a 10-15 minutes' walk from the site and could also be given a score of 5 (best performing) rather than a 4 (moderate positive).

2.76 With respect to the secondary school, the closest is Greensward Academy which is up to 30 minutes' walk or 10 minutes' cycle from the site. However, the journey
can also be made by bus in around 11 minutes (not accounting for waiting time). This is considered to be relatively normal travel times for a secondary school, where journeys are made independently by older children by bike, bus or walking. The score of 1 should therefore be at least a 4 (moderate positive) to reflect this.

2.77 Turning finally to employment, the score of 2 (moderate negative) is contested. Firstly, there has been a noticeable shift to homeworking which means there is less need for reliance to be placed on workers needing to be close to their place of employment. Nevertheless, there are employment sites located in the north of
Hockley within an accessible distance from the site and regular train services into London from Hockley Station as highlighted above, and this score should therefore
be upgraded to 4 (moderate positive).

2.78 In summary, these representations expand upon previously made submissions to demonstrate that Land south of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell, is capable of
delivering a residential development in a sustainable and accessible location. Exceptional circumstances exist for the Local Plan to release land from the Green Belt, and the evidence submitted demonstrates development of this site will not adversely harm the Green Belt and a sensitively designed landscape-led scheme will help to mitigate and enhance the local landscape and deliver biodiversity net gain, alongside recreational improvements and the associated health and wellbeing outcomes this brings for existing and future residents. The District, and Hockley (including Hawkwell) in particular, has a pressing housing need and
affordability issue, which the delivery of this site can contribute significantly towards addressing. The site is capable of being delivered in the early stages of the
new Local Plan period, and Taylor Wimpey is willing to collaborate closely with the Council to ensure this can be achieved.

Site Availability
2.79 The site remains under single ownership and comprises managed agricultural land on the southern edge of Hawkwell. There are no legal constraints to the availability of the land for development.

2.80 The landowner is willing to make the site available for development and the site is under option and being promoted by Taylor Wimpey, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, through the emerging Local Plan in addition to engaging with local stakeholders as part of this process.

2.81 The expertise offered by Taylor Wimpey ensures that subject to the removal of the current Green Belt designation through the Local Plan-making process, that the site will be available for development immediately and capable of delivering new homes in the early part of the New Local Plan.

Site Viability
2.82 The site will be expected to contribute to the provision of infrastructure, through a variety of mechanisms, including Section 106 and Section 278 Agreements, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and appropriate Planning Conditions, provided such conditions are necessary and relevant to the proposed development and also where Planning Obligations are:
i) Necessary to make the development acceptable in planning terms;
ii) Directly related to the development; and
iii) Fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the development.

2.83 The full Infrastructure requirements in relation to this site are as yet unknown but will be set out within RDC’s forthcoming ‘Infrastructure Delivery Plan’.

2.84 The site comprises managed agricultural land (i.e. Greenfield land) and accordingly, it is not anticipated that there will be any abnormal costs associated with the
development of this site as may be expected on previously developed (brownfield) land.

2.85 As such, and subject to further ongoing site investigations and review of RDC’s Infrastructure Delivery Plan, CIL, Local Plan Viability Assessments and emerging Planning Policy wording once finalised, which will provide further details with regards to likely infrastructure requirements arising from the development of the site, it is to be anticipated that the site will be capable of delivering the Council’s emerging policies, including with regards to Affordable Housing provision.

3. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
3.1 This representation has been submitted on behalf of Taylor Wimpey Strategic Land in support of their land interests at:
• Site Reference CFS074: Land south of Mount Bovers Lane, Hawkwell

3.2 The representations respond to the questions raised by the consultation to reaffirm the deliverability (suitability, availability and viability) of the above sites and set out the exceptional circumstances in support of a minor revision to the Green Belt. The representations support the taking forward of this site to create a site-specific policy that allocates the site for residential development in the emerging Local Plan to deliver a high-quality and sustainable residential development to contribute positively towards meeting the District’s significant housing needs.

3.3 Site CFS074 represents a deliverable site and Taylor Wimpey is keen to work collaboratively with RDC and local stakeholders in the preparation of the new Local
Plan to ensure a positive policy position for the site is taken forward to deliver real benefits for the local community and the District as a whole.

NEW LOCAL PLAN: SPATIAL OPTIONS CONSULTATION PAPER: 2021

Rochford in 2021- District Profile p.12
Our Social Characteristics

Rochford expected to shift to higher age groups. Housing affordability is an important issue. "..economically active individuals likely to decrease..fewer residents between ages 18-70..".

This is due to :-

Sale of Council houses, by Government dictat in 1980s. Said homes were for 2 classes: 1. Families who could never afford own homes; 2. Families unable to afford initially, but with cheap rent, could ultimately save deposit to buy own home.

Developers don't want to build "affordable", but have built eg luxury flats and "executive" mansions bought by "nouveau riches", usually middle aged, whose children long grown up and moved on. Thus unwealthy economic age groups with their children had to move to more affordable districts, hence current and possibly future age imbalance.

Many homes have been demolished to accommodate above expensive dwelling dwellings. Wealthy Londoners have sold up and moved to eg Rochford District to buy similar for less.

Cultural Characteristics

Most of them noted in Rayleigh and Rochford. But there are listed and heritage building in Hockley and Hawkwell and Ashingdon. There are the 3 mediaeval churches also. Many heritage items in said area have been demolished to accommodate flats and expensive homes. an example was at 1 Southens Road, formerly Blacks Farm, earliest from 17th century, on Local List. Developer planned replacement with flats: a former official at Planning Policy said Government now "frowned on" Local List. (Other councils claimed no knowledge of said Government dictat and didn't plan to abolish their Local List.) Plan for 13 flats was refused but no mention made of the house, demolition of which was included in application. Once house was demolished, said officer said Government now approved of Local Lists. New List omits several Hockley items on the earlier one. Many Hockley area heritage items have gone same way.

Environmental Characteristics

As you say 40% of Rochford area is at flood threat and the coastline also. This would preclude the area so designated as unsuitable for further development. It is known that insurance companies refuse to include cover against flood risk for homes in flood risk areas.

Economic Characteristics

The 2 main rail lines from Southend to London, one passing through Rochford District, are helpful for commuter traffic to London and for cargo purposes. It is risky that some airlines have withdrawn from Southend Airport. The nuclear station at Bradwell could be more of a risk than asset. Present road connections have served well in the past, but are getting inadequate now and won't support extensive future development.

Draft Strategic Priorities/Objectives for 2050 p.21

Strategic Priority 1: Meeting need for homes/jobs in the area

This states need to meet community need, working with South Essex neighbours, using already developed land first.

But increasingly, Londoners eg are selling for high prices and getting similar or bigger, for less, down here - eg new development in Hall Road (former agricultural land).

South Essex neighbours - be careful how much of their housing number needs aren't pushed into Rochford District.

Prioritising use of previously developed land first. Example - so-called "garden grab" - homes not in Green Belt have been called "land". Where two or three are adjacent - they are grabbed for "executive" houses (mansions), or luxury flats, others finally forced to move for price needing mortgage to move, when they don't want anyway. Others not moving are punished with 'executive' (big) development may be south of them - impacting them, so they become unviable.

Strategic Objective 2

"affordability" - as elsewhere, council houses were sold off in 1980s under "Right to Buy". Developers don't want to do affordable - one told me that at a meeting. Those builders with large estates to develop (requiring a percentage 'affordable') try to evade the rules, perhaps saying more than one firm involved.

"ageing population" - care homes are costly, the old don't want them. If pressured, their homes are sold off to pay for them.

Strategic objective 4

"accelerated growth" - avoid over-substantial Area Action Plans threatening retail centres - with jobs and businesses then lost. Southend Airport may struggle to survive from impact of Covid.

Strategy Options

Hierarchy of Settlements

Re Fig.14, Hockley is equivalent to Hawkwell and Ashingdon - village. Rochford is a market town.

Growth scenarios

Before any substantial growth can occur, a new motorway would be needed for Rochford District to overcome inevitable inadequacies of eg. Southend, Main, Greennward, Ashingdon and other B and C roads, which is doubtful unless a new large settlement occurs in Green Belt for most new housing-? behind Rpchford, to cross River Crouch somewhere near Hullbridge - unlikely and probably not tolerated by staff or residents.

Masterplan for towns etc centres - eg Hockley Area Action Plan more than a decade ago, involving replacement of some existing and erecting large supermarket and may be major store (? Unneeded with on-line shopping). Plan would have involved loss of businesses, jobs. It was unacceptable to traders and residents - a more limited HAAP was agreed.

Significant new community facilities - schools, primary care. These have been promised by developers of large estates, who then found excuses for not doing.

Re 'Important Note' - I'm relieved proposals aren't decided. Much gone already.

Planning for housing growth

HELLA 2020 identifies supply of 4,300 homes planned for, including sites with planning permission. Unfortunately some such have been overcome by huge mansion developments adjacently.

Planning for economic and retail growth

Completed Area Action Plans have provided enough retail space.

Levels of growth needed to deliver infrastructure

Section 106 doesn't always work. As earlier, huge new estate in hall Road (for which farming land sacrificed) developer promised new primary school, GP surgery, then found reasons not to do, causing pressure on existing.

Spatial Strategy Options

1. Urban intensification

There is no available space in any centres near stations. First issue of HAAP proposed building on parking area near Hockley Station, which would have been a mistake and didn't happen. Any intensification done already has often sacrificed existing dwellings, sometimes of heritage character. Others would be threatened. Blocks of flats have done likewise. Another proposal for latter is underway in Southend Road, Hockley, with potential disastrous results for many adjacent homes and would exacerbate a serious traffic problem.

2. Urban extension Would sacrifice Green Belt

Option 4

Your comments at CONS say it all.

Owners of house/garden, to protect themselves from building predators, obtained consent for 2 small homes additionally to their own - just resulted in massive adjacent demolition, replaced by huge dwellings, removing daylight and making light pollution.

Q6 and 7 I cannot agree to any of the 4. Only solution is small dwellings added to properties with large curtilages. This could still give problems re traffic access, neighbour resistance. problem is developers don't want "affordable", only mass demolition replaced by huge "executive" houses, block of luxury flats, making neighbours unviable. Mass sale of council houses -Right to Buy- 1980s was unfortunate.

Climate change and resilient environments

Development agreed in our district must be very limited due to flood risk and existing, expected coastal change.

Green Belt and heritage sites and homes/gardens need largely to be protected from Development. In fact, seeing your Diagram page 36, Rochford District can't accommodate substantial development/redevelopment even with need to provide co-operation needs of nearby districts. (one does realise big new buildings bring more council rates).

As earlier, companies won't five flood insurance in flood risk areas.

One agrees new development should provide energy from carbon neutral/renewable sources, but it's costly and in early stages. Those with gas heating feel threatened. Car reliance is unlikely to be reduced, but also electric cars instead of petrol driven will need plenty of energy-providing points in centres and elsewhere.

Place-making and design Q14-16

It would be very difficult, knowing developer wishes (and need for council rates to come from somewhere), but a design guide if possible, should now exclude further development of executive mansions, luxury flats, especially as Government now requires more affordable homes.

We need to exclude development involving further demolition of existing dwellings, replace by mansions, multi-storeyed units out of height/area with locale, causing daylight loss and night-time light pollution and outside incomes of most locale.

Housing for all

Lack of homes for locals. As before, developers erect executive houses, sometimes in big estates. Local families can't afford, but they are bought by eg Londoners who sell theirs for high prices and buy big ones here for less.

It could be said, in the past young adults lived with their parents, paying their "keep" towards household costs, because they couldn't afford to buy. They only left home on:- marriage, or getting a better paid job elsewhere.

Surely these problems need sorting as housing still "locally driven". Locals cannot afford and there is limited council housing, why they leave the district to find homes they can afford.

It's stated SHMA paper outline need for smaller dwellings, but recognises size is market driven. Developers build mansions for nouveau riches - normally middle-aged, their children grown up and have left. Difficult to change that.

Rented housing - "families with children who cannot afford to buy..ineligible for social housing" (?why). Reverts to social housing lost to Right to Buy of 1980s.

Need for affordable housing

Council housing (largely sold off as above). There are also homes acquired by housing associations charging social rent. it isn't true gardens are sold for inflated sums. Persons with home and garden are often pressured by developers to eave and get demolished for sums that they'd need mortgage in order to move. Developers charge inflated sums to erect outsized houses.

Employment and Jobs

Doubtful. Southend Council demolished much of Victoria avenue, replaced with office buildings c.1970s, may be in expectation of business chances arising from Britain joining European Union. Some firms, such as C E Heath, Norwich Union, opened up there. But it didn't last - both moved away, others likewise. Avenue is now largely re-residential.

Southend Airport was expected to thrive. But recent pandemic caused several airlines to move away.

Traditionally, office staff in S E Essex have commuted to the City and elsewhere in London to work. Arrival of new technology was expected to do away with most office and factory workers. Executive staff would work from home on computer, occasionally attending head office. But commuter trains to London continued to be packed since. Briefly pandemic led people to work from home, but this isn't lasting. Some are again commuting.

Employment land, Eldon way, Hockley was allocated by HAAP but results are limited apparently.

Future of Southend Airport

Probably restricted by loss of airlines, due to effects of pandemic. Further expansion in activity difficult to foresee, due to effect on local community of noise, night flights etc - the photo on p.50 in Spatial Options Local Plan issue shows how vast an area of housing is already affected, without further extension.

Biodiversity As side comment, Hockley isn't an "urban area" - on Wikkipedia it's a large village.

Qu.29-30 I agree in Local Plan wildlife Review. There are some protected species residing in some private gardens. These should be protected under the system. If some neighbours find them a nuisance, it could be explained to them how their boundaries can be safeguarded. However, while some resent eg their lawns dug into by creatures, some so-described objections arise from developer designs on other's properties, as transfer of protected species involves getting licence from DEFRA - complicated and expensive. They are determined to get the ground, regardless of owners' wishes, but don't want complications - they've been known to attack setts.

Green/Blue Infrastructure

Proposals are acceptable, but shouldn't be used as excuse for developers to grab existing/homes/gardens.

Q.35-37

Education As earlier, proof exists where developers of gigantic expensive estates have promised new school, surgery. When estate practically built, they said eg 2 builders involved, so failed to meet promises. result - school c.3 miles away has to take pupils from new estate. Developers of big 'executive' estates must be made in advance to provide, or be denied plan consent.

Healthcare Side comment - I'm concerned by your view of future GP clinics - no appointments, just on-line digital consultations. GP appointments are curtailed to eg phone ones during pandemic, just to avoid infection. This is ok sometimes, but other times impractical. Not all have computers by the way.

Early years/childcare There are plenty of nurseries, but private. I don't know how sate funding can be provided.

Secondary education Where shown this is already full locally, builders for big estates could combine to contribute additionally, if space can be found, or else contribute to extend existing, if area available.

Further education Locally provided by Southend branch of Essex University and other universities over UK. But may be builders of large estates could contribute to a national fund for this use.

Community, Open Spaces One can only suggest big developers contribute likewise and/or designate some of their land, if available.

Heritage

Q43-45 I fear heritage in Rochford has been somewhat selective. Several items in Hockley have been demolished, some in fact of widespread opposition. Your article in Spatial Options sets out straightaway with items presumably to be kept in Rayleigh/Rochford. Recent uproar over plan to remove Mill House has led to the matter going under review.

As earlier, plan to demolish 1 Southend Road for flats caused widespread rage (details earlier). Hockley councillor had flats refused, but nil said re the house, down for demolition on proposal.

It was on the Local List, so Plan Policy official said Government didn't approve that, so Rochford's was abolished. Once house demolished, officer said Government changed its mind. New Local List omitted some Hockley items on it earlier. spa pump house now on national list. May be St Peter & Paul church and Bull pub are listed. Others could be added to Local one, eg Hockley Cottage Southend Road, China Cottage Spa Road. Other items are demolished: Kent View Cottage, 2 Victorian Houses Southend Road, Manor at Plumberow, 17C house and forge opposite entry to Hockley woods.

Town centres and retail

Plan Objectives

"..retail - dominant town centre..struggling in light of on-going structural changes..in high streets/centres". On-line shopping has caused closure of eg clothing stores in towns, accelerated by pandemic. But, eg Hockley centre continues to provide basis needs successfully. Attempt to change it by original HAAP was unsuccessful.

If developers want to introduce residential in addition, it must not be at expense of businesses and be preferably 2 storey, not to threaten nearby low level dwellings.

[Figures 8, 25 and others eg 31-5 make clear Rochford District not suitable for drastic residential increase on grounds of flood risk particularly.]

Using Class E, allowing transfer from retail to residential without planning permission must not be allowed to threaten retail and not everyone has a car to do retail shopping elsewhere.

Q.46-50 Hockley Centre and its environs does not have space to provide additional facilities, residential (except as above) etc. You couldn't put a new supermarket in Eldon way, off the main road, and we have enough provision now. There are 1 or 2 stores in Southend Road, but remainder is residential, mostly 1 or 2 storey and basic needs shopping is adequate in the centre, food, hairdressing, ETC. Larger items, such as clothes, shoes, apart from on-line, people just bus to Southend. Hockley isn't big enough for more.

Transport and connectivity

"National Planning Policy states transport issues should be considered from the earliest stages of plan-making, so the impacts of development on transport networks can be addressed".

That is exactly the local problem. over-enthusiastic profiteering developers have been allowed forward, with often huge estates, without a major district motorway having been formulated and inserted first. Local main roads, particularly in Rochford District - an agricultural area - are former narrow, winding country lanes, later tarmacked over for motor traffic. I think Southend Council planned at one time for access from rear of Shoebury to reach the Crouch, traversing green belt area behind Rochford. Understandably I believe Rochford didn't agree.

Suggestion has been made for one huge development centre, served by one new motorway through green belt, but probably impractical in this rural, flood risk area and rising sea levels

Walking and cycling in preference to private car are excellent for leisure and short distance basic needs, but not eg commuting to work nor eg weekly shopping for families.

Bus services have suffered from increased private car use by middle classes, especially Nos. 7 and 8. Arrival of costly new estates are unlikely to change that.

Maps with your plan show how much of the district is flood threatened, including rising sea level. So I can't see answer to travel needs and extensive new development foreseen in plan.

Green Belt - Rural Issues

Q.54 Rural exception sites. Developers have said they don't want to do affordable. (One told me that at a meeting).

Planning for Complete Communities

Description of centres is accurate. But one must accept that provision for new motorways is largely out of the question. The main roads that have been suitable in the past cannot cope with endless new development and its attendant motor traffic - as earlier, main B C roads in district are former narrow winding country lanes, later tarmacked for motors. But motorway to any large new centre would contend with c.50% flood risk, rising sea levels and the district still has land in agricultural use.

Stonebridge and Sutton might possibly provide a substantial amount of new housing, judging only from the map, but provision of a new motorway (through where) seems doubtful.

Hockley and Hawkwell - housing availability and affordability "a key issue" - due to several problems.

Its services were adequate for its needs. But, as elsewhere in Rochford and UK, and as I wrote earlier, council houses designed for those of limited means were sold under Right to Buy (I believe this arrangement is now abolished). Also, as earlier, a new motorway would be needed, not possible.

Also, possibly attracted by convenience of rail line to London, this area has recently attracted wealthy residents from London and elsewhere. Modest homes/gardens have been demolished, replaces by mansions and blocks of flats. So, middle and low income families have been driven out to wherever they can afford, to be replaced by rich middle-aged. Elsewhere in the district large estates of expensive homes have been erected, presumably with the same results. Some driven out have been paid sums needing a mortgage in order to move. Developers don't expect to pay notable sums for "land" (including others' homes).

Mainly, only available land for building is Green Belt or "flood risk", not suitable.

Draft Local Plan

I would like to make some observations about the above for consideration.

1. Judging by the map showing proposed sites for development, Rayleigh appears to be ringed on all sides, more building making it into a very large town which cannot cope with what is already happening, let along any more. The people of Rayleigh have strong ties with other towns and cities, including London, but we have no wish to become part of an area as large as a city, or to be joined to these other towns. As I'm sure they'll feel the same.

2. Before any further development is even considered the infrastructure must be looked at carefully. Any traffic or road survey must also be carried out at 'busy times' to reflect the enormity of the traffic problem already existing in the Rayleigh area.

3. This map shows far more development than was agreed in the previous plans. In Local Development Framework - Allocations DPD Reg.25, it was stated that there would be 'public park land providing a buffer between the built environment and A1245'. Proposed sites (CFS146 and CFS147) show proposals right up to the A1245, which if joined to the existing development would most likely add at least another 1000 dwelling to an already over populated and under infra-structured area.

4. With the number and size of the sites shown as Rayleigh and Rawreth proposed sites map, it is difficult to see how the natural and historic environment can be 'conserved or enhanced'.

5. Rayleigh is already a town that at times is gridlocked, it is often used as an extra road to Southend when the A127 is blocked by frequent hold ups, (Sunday 19th September is a one) adding more development will just increase the frequency of this happening.

6. Building dwellings in the middle of the town and reducing the facilities is not the answer to the need for housing. In fact how many of the recent proposal would be of a price to attract first or young buyers? Some of this land is very close to listed buildings and a scheduled ancient monument which would undoubtedly suffer if surrounded by dwellings. How long would it be before the residents became upset by noise from these facilities and then they are closed down? These are part of the heritage of Rayleigh and should be preserved along with the Mill Hall.

7. Having large conurbations of housing on the edge of any town does not mean that the business (money) will be brought into the town centre, in fact money will most likely go to large shopping malls and the town centre will die, as has been witnessed in a number of towns in the midlands. Does the local authority really wish the towns of this country to resemble the towns of the USA? We need to preserve our heritage.

8. I believe there is a place for a separate development, such as a garden village which could be built with its own infrastructure.

I do not think it is sensible to live in the past but it is important to look after this country and preserve its character, which after all also attracts visitors and brings in revenue.

I hope you will take these observations into consideration when making any decisions.

Proposed housing developments

This land indicated in COL7, COL20 is council owned, this indicates it is owned by the people of Rayleigh as it is obvious by the objections the people of Rayleigh do not want this land developed. The Mill and surrounding area is historic and must be preserved as such. Rayleigh is already over-developed and struggling to cope with the new developments underway.

The option of a garden village (3a and 3b) would be somewhat better although no development at all would be ideal.

Conservative councillors barely scraped in at the last election. Unless they listen to the people of Rayleigh they will not survive the next one.

COL7 & COL20 are two sites being made residential, surely Rayleigh has had enough development in the few square miles around it, couldn't the housing I know the Gov wants be on outskirts, possibly as a new village development, with its own infrastructure i.e. doctors, schools etc.

Mill Hall is a great venue for learning and leisure, and so nice to have a cafe for social use on site. Rayleigh seems to be traffic locked most of the time. We are encouraged to walk, but where without fumes, unless you drive to venue which defeats purpose. Please don't turn my lovely Rayleigh into a concrete nightmare with a real parking problem and no green spaces.

Transport, Homes, Infrastructure, Bio-diversity

1. Rayleigh is already an over-developed area. More housing being built in Hall Road and Rawreth lane sites.
2. No infrastructure considerations - utilities, medical resources, roads, open spaces etc.
3. AIR POLLUTION. Air quality is already very poor in our area -queuing traffic - Crown Hill, Daws Heath Road and Castle Road (fir re-cycling centre) etc. More traffic will increase congestion and air pollution even worse.
4. Housing. Garden village, option 3a and 3b supported. Away from existing suburban sprawl. Co-operation with Southend in option 3a and 3b areas would be good for Rochford District and relieve extra pressure on Rayleigh.
5. Environment. Protection of wildlife habitats are being destroyed by over-development. Plant more trees for improved air quality and wildlife.
6. Well designed open spaces / parks for all ages.
7. Housing - use of brownfield sites; re-purpose empty houses / flats unoccupied for more than 2 years.
8. Town centre (Rayleigh). Encourage more independent retailers by offering fair, not exorbitant rents from greedy landlords.

I object to future planning for the reasons given below:

This is Wakering village not the London Borough of Wakering. Already there is too much development which the local shops, school, doctors cannot support and the volume of traffic is already excessive.


Environmentally it's a disaster, this is a hunting ground for bats and owls. The hedgerows and fields provide food and shelter for birds, bees and other wildlife which are all essential for our survival.

Already we see hedgehogs killed on the road by speeding vehicles without a care for wildlife or people's lives. Pollution is already at too high a level.

We are supposed to be trying to halt climate change by planting trees. You intend ripping them up and destroying rural vegetation which absorbs CO2 and H2O, so preventing flooding too.

There will not be enough food in the future we are told, so stop building on farmland. Build on brownfield sites, make more use of existing buildings.

Where am I supposed to live when I value a rural life - I am being pushed out by housing the hordes of people who care not of others or their environment.

1. Is this amount of Development proven to be required for local population bearing in mind the amount of housing that Basildon and Southend and Castle Point councils are also being asked to provide?

2. There needs to be a co-ordinated approach to development with adjoining councils so that additional infrastructure can be planned alongside any additional development proven to be required. The A127 needs to be upgraded and an additional bypass road to serve the east end of Southend/Shoebury / Wakering constructed.

3. Following conversations with council planning representative in Rayleigh High Street and assuming that it is proven the capacity is required I would favour larger development taking place to the west of Rayleigh so as to access additional funding for infrastructure. I.e., improved rail capacity, roads, doctors etc.

The reason for this is any further development east of Rayleigh is likely to create even more traffic problems within Rayleigh and due to being smaller developments no additional money would be available for infrastructure. Perhaps we could see some tougher restrictions on developers regarding contributions to infrastructure.

4. No further development within Rayleigh and the town centre including the Mill Hall and Civic Suite site because as quoted by the leader of the council Cheryl Roe "Rayleigh is already gridlocked more often than not" (article in local paper the Echo).

Also, if this amount of development is planned and the Mill Hall needs to be demolished due to it being economically unviable and unable to meet the councils green target then a new facility of at least equivalent size should be built on the site. The Mill Hall was built 50 years ago and Rayleigh has seen a massive increase in population over those years so logic dictates that we should have a larger than existing facility.

5. I would like to see the Council oppose the figures dictated by the Government and ideally no additional development until all infrastructure has been updated.

All of the recent development is having a massive impact on our quality of life in Rayleigh by means of overcrowding, excess traffic limiting our ability to move around and air quality.

My comments are:-
No, No, No to any more developments on GREEN FIELD / GREEN BELT Land!
My personal view is enough is ENOUGH.
The south of Essex has enough Houses, the roads and infrastructure CANNOT cope with anymore!

Whatever you say, the roads are always Busy, when we return from a trip away the worst bit is the A127 coming into Southend.

Do these people who come up with these plans care or even know about this, or is it that this government wants to decimate the South East of England.

Re: The proposed building of 8,000- to 10,000 houses in Rayleigh.

I am disgusted by the plans of Rochford council (mainly Conservative) to build most of 8,000 to 10,000 houses they are required to build in Rayleigh (WHY RAYLEIGH). The new houses should be spread in the Rochford council area (Hockley, Rochford etc), Rayleigh is already the most crowded town. Driving around Rayleigh is already a nightmare and the infrastructure cannot cope with more housing.

COL07 and COL20 is land owned by the Council. It is ours! Developers are not pressing to build on this land. It is the historic heart of Rayleigh. Next to Mount, the Windmill and the Church. I feel proposed building would obscure the Windmill, which is such an attractive view. The historic heart of Rayleigh should become a pleasant area for the Rayleigh community. Plans for the demolition of the Mill Hall should be scrapped and a more imaginative plan devised.

I like the idea of a garden village proposed by the Liberals using option 3a and 3b close to Fossetts Lane.

I am a Conservative voter through and through but will never, ever vote Conservative in a local election again. I know many, many Conservative voters in Rayleigh who feel the same as me. Conservative councillors in Rayleigh suffered at the last election due to Mill Hall proposals. If this housing proposal is approved, things will be worse for Rayleigh councillors at the next election (local). A Conservative councillor representing Rayleigh will be rarer than a Yeti.

My concerns are about infrastructure. If large numbers are to be earmarked then green belt should be protected. Poor quality green belt can be sacrificed if it is in areas where there are roads which have scattered bungalows and small holdings; such as from Daws Heath Road to Rayleigh Downs Road or Rawreth Lane - roads to the north side. Hullbridge Road, Lanes opposite golf course. The big proviso should be air quality which is not good in Rayleigh. Strict measures to protect as many trees as possible otherwise there will be no future for our grandchildren and those generations to follow. Its no good saying you will replace them. Years ago the Council chopped down all the lime trees in our road despite my protests saying they would plant new, and they did, but they never survived the vandals, vehicles, droughts. Apart from what neighbours have planted or preserved in their front gardens, we have no roadside trees now.
No major development until sewer and drainage is improved especially at Hullbridge and Connaught Road area. Those sewer stations will not cope. There will be major problems id this is ignored.
Traffic routes - To London bound and north bound must be improved first. At present A127, A13 and A130 do not cope in the event of a problem or just volume of traffic. Jams make the air quality far worse.
I consider my statements to be totally necessary to avoid massive health problems. We also need more doctors, hospitals, police (vital) its becoming lawless.
Conservation areas, woodland and lovely green belt must be protected at all costs.

I read with dismay your plan to inflict upon us a further 7,200 new homes in our already overcrowded area. We absolutely cannot accommodate this. Our roads are already past saturation point and cannot cope with a further 16,000 cars. what about the serious increase in air pollution? The B1013 is already the busiest and most congested B road in the country. Our doctors surgeries are at breaking point and our hospitals have waiting lists of longer than 5 years, and routine treatments have ceased all together. Staffing levels are dangerously low with no sign of improvement any time soon. Schools are full so where will 15,000 extra children be taught?

Global warming is teaching us that we need green spaces and less concrete. We need to protect our green belt. We need land for agriculture so as to grow our own food, we can no longer rely on importing food from across the world. We need to protect our wildlife and our biodiversity and above all we need to protect every tree we can, and plant millions more besides.

I suggest we get rid of the airport and use this brownfield site for housing if we absolutely have to, as the airport is a source of ongoing nuisance regards pollution and noise. The airport site has better roads around it, and is well supplied with a large supermarket and retail park opening soon. If this is not agreed upon, I suggest taking a look at Yorkshire where they have thousands of acres of open space and fewer trees would need to be destroyed for housing.


With reference to the land north of Merryfields Avenue, Hockley.

I read with dismay that this plot of land has been offered for consideration for development in the new local plan, showing space for a possible 39 new homes.

I understand this land is Metropolitan Green Belt and protects the countryside from being developed. It has tree protection orders on the larger trees and is adjacent to the Maryland Nature Reserve, which would suffer badly if development were allowed to take place here.

My property is already bordered by seven other properties, which is way too many neighbours to have to contend with, and the thought of adding more fills me with dread. It would be unreasonable and unfair. I enclose a map to illustrate this.

We need to protect green spaces now, however small, in the interests of climate change. We need to protect every tree we can as well as planting many more, so please reject this proposal, for the sake of our wildlife and biodiversity, and for the sake of my sanity.

After attending an unsuitable consultation under a gazebo in the car park of the Old Fire Station in Hockley, I write with concern about future development. I believe there is no infrastructure being put in place or indeed is there any room in this part of Essex to improve it!
We are flanked by the Tames Estuary and the River Crouch and therefore does not appear any room for manoeuvre!
There is a serious amount of housing already planned in this area and in Southend which adds to the congestion we already deal with on a daily basis!!
No consideration is given to schools and much needed doctor's surgeries and hospitals which are already bursting at the seams!!!

CFS045 / CFS064
Before you build more houses, you must build better roads and deliver more reliable public transport.

CFS064
I am against the farmers field behind Hockley Community Centre being built on. 1. South East Essex is already overpopulated. 2. The roads can't cope especially during the rush period / school run. 3. More people mean more pressure on our local NHS and Police. 4. This field is used for crop growing, we can't afford to lose any more loss of farmland in the UK. This field has public footpaths used by many people on both sides of the railway line. Wildlife in Betts Wood would be trapped there. 5. We've just had a large development put up on Hall Road, Rochford now there's another in Hullbridge on land that has been known to flood in the past and a huge estate between Rawreth lane and London Road in Rayleigh!! Just how much more do you expect us to take? When's it going to stop? 6. Local schools will come under pressure too. The whole of South Essex i.e.., RDC, CPDC and SBC have been over developed and are overpopulated. Time to call a halt.

CFS064
I object to this field site (CFS064) being used for housing for the following reasons:
The surrounding roads are already busy and lack room for cars (especially during school pickup / drop off times).
Nearby green / open spaces has always been a reason to love Hockley by myself and other residents.
As someone who is considering a dog, local walking areas are desirable.
For a country attempting to contribute towards improving the public's health and global warming, building vast amounts of housing in open spaces will increase our pollution.

CFS064
I object to this field site being used for housing owing to the following reasons:
The B1013 is already heavily congested and above capacity. Further housing would put unnecessary strain on this.
There are multiple other sites in the Rochford District which have better access options and could be used for infill. For example, there is a large green pocket of land on the Rayleigh / Eastwood border with multiple access points, including to the A127 and the Eastwood Road. Surely a location like this with existing infrastructure would be the sensible option to develop first.

The site at Betts Farm is surrounded by 3 ancient woodlands and is teaming with wildlife. On the Betts Farm estate we see bats, foxes, and badgers which the field and woodlands support. Further development would negatively impact this.

Across the Board Situation

1. As this document stands with no mention of any planned infrastructure except broadband, the number of properties has the potential to virtually double the population of RDC.

2. Medical services are already seriously overloaded prior to [covid] virus.

3. With Southend adjacent the whole thing will result in an environmental disaster!!

4. All the Council's executives should seriously pressure the 3 local Conservative MPs to go back to the Government and bluntly say quote the Government number of properties is a serious threat to a reasonable life in this area.

5. The proposed number of developments which will feed direct into the B1013 with the ones still in construction is some 2,000 plus houses, say 50% have 2 cars - 3000 extra vehicles feed into the B1013.

5.1 To put things into context the M1 was initially built as a dual carriageway road , no turnings or pedestrian crossings etc, to carry 19,000 vehicles a day. The B1013 currently carries 26-27000 a day and no wider than the days of horse and cart. it is frequently most days of the week backed up from Hockley and Hambro Hill past our house, over a mile each way. Weekends are often worse than week days now! I have frequently recorded noise levels of consistently over 80-85db, some 10ms off the road and 80 plus in the back garden!!

5.2 It is impossible to hold a conversation in the fron t garden. This level of noise in a commercial / industrial site / situation would require mandatory ear protection. The measured pollution some years ago was worse than St James area, central London!!!

6. As regards the environment and new developments it has been a mandatory requirement that properties do not discharge surface water onto the highway. The B1013 is a strategic highway, ECC and RDC have continuously and repeatedly ignored this. The result - highway drains are over loaded and flood to the detriment of others!

6.1 A recent development in Church Road, Hockley discharges probably around 200mts of surface water direct onto Church road, runs down the hill and floods under the bridge!

6.2 There is no mention of Grey water Recycling.

7. There is no mention of utilities, water, gas, electric, sewage etc!

7.1 There is a finite limit to the volume, water, gas and sewage you can get through a network. Too much sewage serious pollution health threat. The electrical network in this area is overloaded at present. Go too far cascade failure might make people listen a few days no electric!

To upgrade these services is not a few days job and its expensive. All developments should be charged a realistic infrastructure coat well in advance before construction, and development not allowed to start until infrastructure is in place! Doctors surgeries / schools etc - Hall Road 'cop out' overloaded other doctors now!

7.2 A typical example is Beaulie Place development east of Chelmsford, some 3000 plus properties, adjacent to rail line. Planning approval required station to be built before houses. Developer said "can't afford it" so now some 7/8 years on no station. Unlikely there ever will be! So people have to get to west side of Chelmsford to pick up a train!

7.3 Another example, when Park School Rawreth Lane was sold off, around 2000, the developer had to include improvements to the junction, Rawreth Lane. A substantial sum of money was available due to ECCs tardy working (they are responsible for the road strategic highway) the 5 year spend timescale run out! Nothing done. Money went back to developer, laughing all the way to the bank.

7.4 It has just been done, not finished yet, 20 years on, paid by other developments.

8. The B1013 is the heaviest trafficked B road in the country as a single narrow road and a strategic highway. ECC are incapable of maintaining it in a safe condition with current traffic let alone a few thousand more a day.

8.1 Before the first lockdown, March 2020, I reported to ECC two serious safety problems:- within 500 mts of our house, nome have been fixed yet despite reporting again recently.

A hole string of potholes 13/14 in all over about a 100m section of road on the south side by The Bull pub, you can not miss them. By The Bull pub to Folly Lane, very recently I saw a cyclist struggle to stay on her bike, trying to miss one hole, she hit another, it could have easily have been fatal, all down to ECC negligence.

8.2 The other one was a crack on the north side, from Bullwood Approach west and 50 metres, which opens up when HGVs go along it. Early this year a pot hole some 600mm diameter and 100 plus deep developed in it. The only way you could miss it in a car was scrub the kerb or cross the white line by 1 1/2 m plus. Despite chasing ECC some 3 times and logging it, it was finally bodge filled, not cut out or professionally done. It is starting to go again. The crack is now easily a 100 mtrs long and will soon be a good trap for a cycle wheel or motor bike!

9. Conclusion

If these additional developments take place without the infrastructure first It will be most unprofessional. There will be serious problems, knife and drug crime is out of control together with muggings and vandalism! At the moment and getting worse.

P.S. A month is too short to make a full judgment, many plans / maps are very poor quality.

Climate Change
So many recent reports from established bodies highlighting the grave concerns over climate change, I believe the Local Plan should be put on hold and the Council should concentrate on climate change issues. Councils should await the outcome of the meeting of many nations on this subject later in the year.

Homes
Once again, the number of houses proposed to be built is so very high. There is already over development in the area and this latest number must be reduced. No building on green belt or arable land should be allowed. the mantra must be "build in better places" and not "build back better". Many people in the district now have further worries of how the Plan will affect thir quality of life.

Social Care
This is a major problem at the moment with the Government at present, raising taxation as a means to fund this care. The pressure that further homes in the area would have on providing social care would be considerable.

Transport
The Council must provide an infrastructure assessment Plan so that a sound analysis can take place before land allocations are suggested for housing.

The strain on public services, roads etc and will education services have the capacity to cope.

Our roads are already crowded with traffic volumes on the increase and air pollution will have health affects on residents.

Open Spaces
Must be improved or, at least kept in good order. An expansion in open spaces would be so welcome to our youth who have had to suffer so much during the pandemic. Also, no car parking charges should be levied at open spaces.

Planning
Councils must also have the right to appeal if the Inspector changes their original decision and not be constrained by financial issues. That would help residents and also be a true sense of democracy.

I really hope the Local Plan is postponed due to climate change. Also, it is plain common sense to reduce the number of houses to be built.

There is no way Rayleigh can cope with anymore housing. Whichever way you go into Rayleigh there are queues. You can't get a doctors appointment. The A1245 has water laying dangerously on it after rain.
If we must have more houses in this overcrowded area I support option 3b.

Dear Sirs,

Regrettably I am unable to take advantage of the interactive Local Plan electronically and would therefore ask you to take into accounts my observations by letter.

My guiding principle has been the Government statement that all future development must show a biodiversity net gain. I find it difficult to see where this plan meets this criteria.

The increase in building and consequential increase in population will by necessity create more pollution and greater demand on diminishing utilities. Far from the greener climate that is desired we will continue to pollute - a net loss.

I cannot find within the plan the data to support the construction of additional water reserves though I may have missed this point.

Far from protecting our towns and villages it would appear the long term plan is to create one large administrative area. Option 3a and b seek to offer some defence against the urban sprawl.

Much more information is required to make a genuine observation regarding additional doctors, medical centres, schools etc only that the present requirement is already insufficient.

The road system at the moment is vastly overstretched, the network so overcrowded that there is insufficient space to repair the crumbling surfaces. Any new roads will be too little to cope once they come on line. Is there a new major network plan?

Similarly town centre development, major flooding control and the use of simple flat pack development area areas of further consideration.

I hope that a simple solution can be found but over development, such I see here does not seem to be an improvement.

Thank you in advance for your attention.

The documents are not providing sufficient detailed information to reply to particular questions or sections, so the following are general comments and observation:

1. What standards methodology are RDC likely to adopt?
- Standard methodology: 7,200 new homes by 2040... or
- Standard methodology + 50% buffer: 10,800 new homes by 2040.

2. What strategy option are RDC likely to adopt, as strategy option 3 concentrated growth looks frightening and overwhelming?

3. Figure 28... need for housing by type and tenure. What is the record/situation being met by current developers when taking housing by type and nature?

4. The promoted sites identified on the maps (e.g. Fig. 53) appear to be frightening and overwhelming and provide little useful info and detail when the following clause is considered... "many types of these sites will not be appropriate for development". SO WHAT HOUSES ETC, NO'S OF HOUSES ETC GO WHERE?

5. There is very little detail and info on supporting infrastructure improvements and I would consider RDC have a poor track record when it comes to ensuring infrastructure are in place before new developments are built.

6. RDC seem to pride themselves on the area providing a good quality of life, but there appears to be little detail or information how this good quality of life is to be maintained or improved upon in the future.

Re: Land being offered for potential development

I am writing, again, to let you know my thoughts about possible sites being put forward to develop new house builds. Particularly:
CFS160 / CFS161 (124 houses), Hockley near water tower.
CFS074, Hawkwell, opposite Rawl Pindi Nursery (498 houses).
Adjacent site CFS194, CFS169, CFS150, CFS020 from Clements Hall to Victor Gardens, St Mary's Church to the railway line (801 houses).
CFS261 Land behind King Edmund School off Brays Lane potential (4,447 houses).
CFS094 Land West of Ash Green, Canewdon (17 houses).

Well, I am totally opposed to any of these being built on. Reasons -

CFS169 / CFS161 The road that would have to accommodate the traffic would accumulate from the 124 houses is High Road, which is already too busy now. Especially mornings and early evenings when people are coming home. It is stop start for most of the way from Bullwood Hall to the Spa.

CFS074 - The road that would be affected is B1013 (Main Road). This road carries heavy traffic. I know because I regularly try to get out from Gusted Hall Lane onto it and it takes me ages. This road then goes to Rayleigh through Hockley on the road I mentioned above or it goes to Southend via Hall Road /Cherry Orchard Way or onto the Ashingdon Road. And well - we all know what Ashingdon Road is like, so an extra 500 houses would be detrimental to say the least.

CFS194 / 196 / 150 020 - so these 800 houses would come out in Rectory Road, and B1013 as above.

CFS261 - The land behind King Edmund School. Another 4,447 houses would produce megga traffic out into the Ashingdon Road, which can no way accommodate such traffic. As you know we are all against the possible Bloor build for 600 houses for the problem with traffic, so 4,400 houses would be ridiculous.

And lastly, CFS094 Land West of Ash Green, Canewdon 17 new homes. Only last year the two developments were finished where 3 Acres and Birch Lodge were knocked down. The ones that back onto our back garden are way too close to us. We were lied to by the Council who said they had sent out 'A change to the plan' - adding onto the rear of the houses another 5 or 6 feet. Me nor my neighbours ever received anything asking if we would agree or disagree to it. Because we obviously would have been against it. So obviously it's easier to just say the letters were sent out and to not do it - then no one could disagree.

Anyway the piece of land next to them which would be in between the 'New Builds' and 'the Rectory' was, I was led to believe to be left for wildlife, but there we go.

I would have thought we would need another shop at least if we have more houses built.

We are always led to believe that there would be the appropriate infrastructure to go with any houses to be built, but it never happens. We have had many developments around Rochford area over the years. There has been the one off of Dalys Road where the hospital was. Now that was definitely a mistake to knock a hospital down.

There were some houses built off of Golden Cross Road. Then there was the "Christmas" tree farm. Plus they added more after that onto it.

Then there was the Hall Road development of 600. Initially they were going to build a school because of the number of houses, but then splitting the development to 2 developers allowed a loophole and there weren't enough houses to warrant a new school.

It's just disgusting the way they play with the loopholes. It might mean each developer has 300 houses now - but it still adds up to 600. It's just plain old common sense has gone. It's just about money money money.

It's obvious that when a lot of houses are built you have to have the infrastructure in place before hand. Boris Johnson had this in "black and white" in the 2019 Manifesto. That with any building developments you would have to make sure that the infrastructure would have to come first BEFORE anyone moved into the houses. (WHERE is the infrastructure) (there isn't any).

The roads all around Rochford can't cope with more traffic.

The holes in the roads at the moment are just appalling. Greensward Lane is just ridiculous. People just weave around them, that in itself is what we get. NO more CARS. It's impossible to make the roads any better. They are roads made way back when traffic was much lighter.

NO MORE HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS

Absolutely disgraceful, think of peoples wellbeing NOT MONEY.

Good to meet last month & to run through the current position on the Local Plan.

In view of the numbers of additional homes which you are looking to accommodate my initial view was that it was unlikely there would be any showstoppers in terms of the spatial distribution of the sites.

Anglian Water colleagues planning future wastewater have advised that:

• Both Southend and Rayleigh West theoretically have enough capacity to take 2,500 houses.
• Rochford will be at its limit unlikely to be at a point stopping some additional growth going there.
• When Southend reaches capacity Anglian Water will to need to relocate WRC as there isn't any more space on the land or around it.
• On paper preference would be development served by Rayleigh West.

Colleagues in Pre Development Services - who would consider sites at the preferred option stage and advise developers - have run the numbers and confirmed that:

• Along with Rochford, the other WR catchments likely to be involved are Rayleigh-West and Rayleigh-East (see attached).
• All three WRC’s have headroom to accommodate the additional numbers you are looking at (circa 2.5k units)
• The pinch points are in the network and so would need considering when at preferred site shortlisting stage.
• Currently they suggest additional housing sites should first be located in the Rayleigh- West catchment (as wastewater colleagues indicated) and then Rayleigh-East.
• The preference would be for concentration of development as this enables investment at scale both by Anglian Water and developers.
• The network will need looking at closer and may pose some issue with regard to the impact on frequency and volume from the Combined Sewer Overflows.
• This would be at the ROCD SP and STBG SM (see attached).
• Both of these discharge to sensitive watercourses and that may involve new storm discharge consents from EA which may cause some concerns for developers although with this should be resolvable at planning application stage.

So as suggested last month in summary no show stoppers provided you take account of your existing commitments which you advised are mainly in Rochford (the Rochford catchment).