Allocations DPD Discussion and Consultation Document

It is not considered that the options put forward in this document are the most sustainable for several reasons. The omission of alternative sites identified in core strategy consultation should not be considered definitely excluded until the Core strategy has been accepted by an Inspector The hearing is due to start in May and therefore allocations should be drawn together once broad locations have been accepted formally.

Furthermore it is strongly felt that too little consideration has been given to the allocation of housing in urban fringe locations on smaller sites. Whilst it is acknowledged that larger sites can provide additional infrastructure the development of medium sized sites (5- 10 hectares) can integrate better with existing infrastructure and still provide additional requirements to support new development and enhance the existing community. Medium sized developments have far less impact on the landscape particularly in the green belt.

Land at Eastwood Nurseries (Call for Sites Allocations Site 146) is a medium sized site which offers a more integrated development site. In the Inspectors report on the Rochford District Replacement Plan in 2006 it was noted by the Inspector that the site "adjoins two established communities likely to be able to accept further additions of population" and also that "the local infrastructure would be sufficient to absorb further development". The reason for the rejection of this site was that there was no need at that time to release Green Belt land for housing which is not the case today.

This site is preferable to larger scale sites because it:

* Offers residential development close to expanding airport employment opportunities and also Southend hospital. Will reduce the need for commuting into the area from the west of the District.

* Rayleigh Station is within 2 miles of this site and there are established bus links from this site to Rayleigh town centre.

* Local infrastructure could absorb additional development in this location. It is noted in the Site Allocations assessment that the site "has fair access to services." It is within proximity of leisure facilities and schools and has access to the highway network.

* Development of this site can include provision of a welfare centre for this area of Rayleigh supporting the elderly population. The landowner of this site is happy to put forward land for community purposes such as a medical centre/welfare centre or a school if required.

* The site is unattractive greenbelt land which is subdivided and provides limited landscape benefit. Development with good design and effective landscaping would enhance this area which has views from the A127.
*
Cycle connectivity with both Rayleigh station and employment centres along A127 from Rayleigh Weir to the Airport exists and can be enhanced as part of this development. This will reduce reliance on car traffic in this congested area.

* Green connectivity from this site can be enhanced to Cherry Orchard Country Park and open space at neighbouring Castle Point.