Colchester Submission Draft Local Plan Regulation 19 Consultation 2026

Ends on 13th October 2026 (46 days remaining)

12. Place Policies

12.1 Local Plan uses a consistent template for Place Policies to clearly set out site‑specific requirements for each allocation that are in addition to the requirements of the strategic and development management policies in this plan. Place Policies are designed to provide clarity and certainty for applicants, decision‑makers and local communities by setting out the key site-specific requirements that apply to individual sites. Place policies do not repeat the detailed requirements of strategic and development management policies, which apply across all sites, but instead focus on key site-specific issues necessary to ensure deliverable and sustainable development.

12.2Whilst all planning applications are determined in accordance with the development plan as a whole, the following list of key considerations highlight the main strategic and development management policies that are most likely to be relevant to residential and mixed use proposals. The list is intended to assist applicants and decision makers and does not introduce additional policy requirements. This approach supports effective development management and avoids reliance on cross‑referencing for every Place policy.

  1. The design and layout of development proposals is expected to support health and wellbeing, including access to green space, opportunities for active travel, and a high‑quality living environment consistent with Policy ST1.
  2. In accordance with PC9, play provision should be designed into the layout and masterplanning of development as an integral component of placemaking, rather than as isolated or residual spaces.
  3. In accordance with Policies ST7a and PC2, development proposals should be designed to prioritise walking, cycling and public transport through safe, inclusive and permeable layouts that follow best practice guidance (including LTN 1/20), connect effectively to existing networks, and protect and enhance active travel routes including LCWIP. Masterplanning should identify opportunities to connect to and enhance strategic routes and corridors, including the Colchester Orbital where relevant to the site’s location and context. Proposals should incorporate appropriate supporting infrastructure, such as public transport access, EV charging, and servicing, while ensuring high-quality, accessible environments around key destinations including schools.
  4. All development proposals will need to demonstrate safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards in accordance with Policy ST7a, with the point of vehicle access to be agreed with the Highway Authority and demonstrate that the proposal would not be detrimental to highway capacity or safety. Proposals will need to demonstrate that a safe pedestrian access can be provided to ensure connectivity within and beyond the site to link to existing footways, Public Rights of Way and local facilities, including the Colchester Orbital where appropriate.
  5. In accordance with Policy LC1, development proposals are expected to be sympathetic to landscape character, qualities of the locality and sense of place. Screening comprising locally appropriate tree belts and/or hedgerows may be required along site boundaries and consideration given to the retention of mature trees and hedgerows within each site.
  6. In accordance with Policy EN6, applicants will need to demonstrate that development proposals conserve, and where appropriate, enhance the significance of heritage assets, including any contribution made by their settings. Proposals should take into account the findings of the Colchester Local Plan Stage 2 Heritage Impact Assessment and incorporate the recommended mitigation measures into the design of the proposal.
  7. In accordance with Policy ST7, development proposals are expected to address both strategic and site-specific infrastructure requirements as informed by the IADP and local evidence. This is likely to include education provision, highway mitigation, water and wastewater, Police, Fire & Rescue and Ambulance facilities provision/funding, and specific community / open space provision.
  8. Development proposals will need to demonstrate a coordinated approach to foul and surface water management, demonstrating that:
    • adequate wastewater treatment capacity is available or can be made available in line with agreed phasing in accordance with Policy NZ3; and
    • surface water is managed in accordance with Policy EN9, including the use of SuDS, and discharged to a receiving waterbody rather than the combined sewer network.
  9. Proposals will need to demonstrate the measures included to support water efficiency and reduce impacts on water infrastructure, proportionate to the scale and nature of development, informed by Policies EN8, EN9 and NZ3.
  10. In accordance with Policy GN5, provision of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) for proposals over 500 dwellings or small proposals that are close to sensitive habitats.

12.3 Not all of the above is relevant to employment sites. The list below is intended to assist applicants and decision makers regarding proposals for employment sites. As with the list for residential and mixed use sites, it does not introduce additional policy requirements and avoids reliance on cross‑referencing for every employment allocation policy.

  1. In accordance with Policy ST7a and PC2, development proposals should be designed to prioritise walking, cycling and public transport through safe, inclusive and permeable layouts that follow best practice guidance (including LTN 1/20), connect effectively to existing networks, and protect and enhance active travel routes including LCWIP. Proposals should incorporate appropriate supporting infrastructure, such as EV charging, public transport access, and servicing.
  2. In accordance with Policy ST7a all development proposals will need to demonstrate safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards with the point of vehicle access to be agreed with the Highway Authority and demonstrate that the proposal would not be detrimental to highway capacity or safety. Proposals will need to demonstrate that a safe pedestrian access can be provided to ensure connectivity within and beyond the site to link to existing footways, Public Rights of Way and local facilities, including the Colchester Orbital where appropriate.
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6, applicants will need to demonstrate that development proposals conserve, and where appropriate, enhance the significance of heritage assets, including any contribution made by their settings. Proposals should take into account the findings of the Colchester Local Plan Stage 2 Heritage Impact Assessment and incorporate the recommended mitigation measures into the design of the proposal.
  4. Development proposals will need to demonstrate a coordinated approach to foul and surface water management, demonstrating that:
    • adequate wastewater treatment capacity is available or can be made available in line with agreed phasing; and
    • surface water is managed in accordance with Policy EN9, including the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems, and discharged to a receiving waterbody rather than the combined sewer network.
  5. Proposals will need to demonstrate the measures included to support water efficiency and reduce impacts on water infrastructure, proportionate to the scale and nature of development, informed by Policies EN8, EN9 and NZ3.

Colchester View map Settlement Boundary

12.4 Within the Colchester urban area and city centre, there is a wide range of employment opportunities, facilities, services and transport choices available to support future communities. As the district’s principal centre, Colchester performs the highest-order role within the settlement hierarchy and represents the most sustainable location for growth.

12.5The spatial strategy therefore directs development to the urban area in the first instance, reflecting its accessibility, concentration of services, and ability to accommodate growth in a coordinated way. Focusing development in Colchester supports sustainable travel patterns, maximises the use of existing infrastructure, and enables the effective delivery of new infrastructure and services.

12.6 This approach aligns with the overarching strategy of directing growth to the most sustainable and accessible locations, while ensuring that development is proportionate elsewhere in the hierarchy, having regard to the role, function and constraints of the district’s settlements.

12.7Where a proposed development has minerals and waste safeguarding implications, it is requested that these are highlighted with the site promoter at the earliest opportunity, including at the pre-application stage. Addressing such implications could materially impact on the design of the proposed development and therefore it is important that the conclusions of safeguarding assessments can iteratively feed back into project design.

12.8 At the time of preparing the Local Plan, there is ongoing uncertainty regarding the available wastewater treatment capacity within the Colchester Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment. Whilst this is expected to be a temporary issue and work is underway by the relevant bodies to resolve it, developers should engage with Anglian Water Services at the earliest opportunity, including through the pre-application process, to establish infrastructure capacity and any requirements necessary to support the proposed development.

12.9Development proposals in Colchester will be expected to demonstrate that adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity is available, or can be provided in a timely manner, without unacceptable impacts on existing communities or the environment. Early engagement with Anglian Water Services will help identify any reinforcement works, phasing requirements or sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks that may be required to facilitate development.

Policy CC1: City Centre Comment Core City Centre Boundary (1) Primary Shopping Area (2) Transport Interchange Boundary (3)

The City Centre is defined by the boundary shown on the policies map and is the principal focus for retail, food and drink, cultural, leisure, community and other business uses in Colchester. As such the City Centre is at the top of the Centre Hierarchy as indicated in Policy E4. Development proposals within the City Centre will be supported where they make a positive contribution to levels of footfall, activity and vibrancy and support the City Centres role and function as the cultural epicentre of Colchester,including supporting a vibrant and diverse evening and night-time economy where compatible with the amenity of surrounding uses. Accordingly, proposals should be mindful to ensure high levels of equality and accessibility in contributing toward a provision that serves the wider population of Colchester in its entirety. All proposals must have regard to the City Centre Masterplan, including consideration for the location of a future Colchester transport interchange within the boundary of the area of search in the city centre as shown on the Policies Map.

Within the City Centre, proposed uses should contribute toward creating a diverse mix of uses that support the vitality and viability of the centre. Proposed uses must provide active street frontages and ground floor uses should primarily fall within Use Class E (as defined by the Use Classes Order).

Proposals which complement the role and function of the City Centre will also be supported, where the proposed use would increase footfall and encourage visitors to enjoy the City Centre for longer by facilitating multiple user events/activities within the centre per visit. These include, (but are not limited to): residential, leisure and cultural uses, creche, day nursery, medical and health services, sport and recreation provision, open space, and offices, as well as retail and food and drink uses. Proposals that retain and enhance existing or deliver new elements of green infrastructure that provide benefits in terms of enhancement of the public realm, active travel, climate change resilience and/or habitat connectivity will be supported.

Within the Primary Shopping Area, the majority of street frontage should be dedicated to active retail frontages. Non-retail uses will be supported within the Primary Shopping Area where the proposed use will provide a service directly compatible with the function of the Primary Shopping Area and help to secure its long-term vitality and viability. Non-retail uses will not be supported where an over-concentration of said uses would detract from the established retail character in the locality, and such impacts should be considered accumulatively.

The role and benefit of upper floors to premises in the City Centre in providing residential uses is recognised, as is the role that residential development can play in the vitality of centres. As a result, in addition to the identified residential redevelopment sites allocated within the City Centre, proposals for residential development within the City Centre will be supported where they complement the mix of uses in the locality. Higher densities should be promoted and will be supported within the City Centre, where it can be demonstrated that any adverse impacts satisfactorily mitigated and can be outweighed by substantive public benefits. Residential uses should primarily be accommodated on upper floors and will not be supported on ground floor street frontages within the Primary Shopping Area.

Development proposals within the City Centre will be required to deliver the highest standard of design and placemaking, given the cultural significance of the City Centre and the emphasis this places on its streetscapes and public spaces. Proposals should secure improved streetscapes via minimising street clutter; use of high-quality materials; well-designed street furniture; public art and interpretation; retention of important spaces and key views; enhancement of street frontages; and use of sympathetic shopfronts and signage (in accordance with adopted guidance). Development proposals will not only need to protect and enhance the character of the conservation area, listed buildings, heritage assets and their setting including where appropriate the Scheduled Ancient Monument (Town Walls), but also must protect the City Centre’s cultural significance, along with the distinct positive elements of its skyline.

In the longer term, as the catchment area population increases and new development proposals emerge, there may be additional demand for commercial leisure facilities, in which case any such provision should be directed to the ‘town centres first’ in accordance with the sequential approach to strengthen their diversity of uses and overall vitality.

Policy PP1: Britannia Car Park, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 100 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of the surrounding development;
  2. Proposals must have regard to the Britannia Yard Design Framework in the Colchester City Centre Masterplan;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the protection of key views (east from St Botolph’s Church Walk and south of the site);
    2. provision of an appropriate western and north-western buffer to the Scheduled Monument, as well as retention of and enhancement of boundary trees;
    3. the layout and access should respect the historic street patterns;
    4. avoid dense and uniform layouts;
    5. establish principles over treatment of setting and archaeological evaluation and management;
  4. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Colchester Town Mobility Hub;
    2. Improvements to relevant LCWIP routes;
    3. Flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8, EN8a and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan recommendations for Critical Drainage Area COL 003 (Abbey Gate);
    4. New bus station and interchange and St Botolph’s Circus Roundabout improvements.

Policy PP2: Vineyard Gate, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP, and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 100 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Proposals must have regard to the Vineyard Gate Design Framework in the Colchester City Centre Masterplan;
  3. Safe and suitable vehicle access to the site to be off Osborne Street and Stanwell Street to be agreed with the Highway Authority;
  4. Provide pedestrian connections directly to / from Lion Walk;
  5. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. preservation and enhancement of the Scheduled and Listed Town Walls and their setting, with any works affecting the SAM and listed building requiring consent.
    2. a buffer of green space should be used to south of SAM and listed Town Wall to the northwest and east of the site;
    3. public access should be maintained with appropriate signage to promote understanding;
    4. the layout of streets within the site should form view corridors, including extending the view of St Botolph’s Church to the east by extending the line of St Botolph’s Church Walk within the site;
    5. retention and reinforcement of historic street patterns and connections to maintain its historical connections;
    6. refurbishment of buildings that contribute positively to the Conservation Area;
    7. removal or redevelopment of features that detract from the area’s significance and
    8. sensitive building heights and massing that preserve the historic skyline.
  6. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing water supply and sewage infrastructure on the site.
  7. Contributions will be required towards;
    1. Colchester Town Mobility Hub;
    2. Improvements to relevant LCWIP routes
    3. Flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8, EN8a and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area CDA COL 003 (Abbey Gate);
    4. A new bus station and interchange, and a new gateway at Vineyard Street.

Policy PP3: St Runwald Street Car Park, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 40 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Proposals must have regard to the Colchester City Centre Masterplan;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (updated July 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site, including but not limited to:
    1. the layout to reflect the historic form and evolution of the site, including the former Cups Hotel and associated outbuildings;
    2. Respecting the character and appearance of the Colchester Area 1 Conservation Area;
    3. the protection of key views (Town Hall, St Peter’s Church and Jumbo) through appropriate building heights;
    4. respecting the historical street patterns, avoiding excessive street clutter and
    5. establishing principles over treatment of setting and archaeological evaluation and management.
  4. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify and archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  5. Development must safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site.
  6. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Colchester Town Mobility Hub;
    2. Improvements to relevant LCWIP routes;
    3. Flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8, EN8a and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area CDA COL 012 (Balkerne Hill Roundabout);
    4. A new bus station and interchange.

Policy PEP1: Colchester Business Park Comment View map Employment

Land north of The Crescent, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan and provide the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7.

All development proposals within Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Area will also be determined against the policies in the Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Review (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Policy PP4: Braiswick, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 30 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development and to incorporate a landscape buffer along the northern boundary.
  2. Maximise opportunities for the site for wildlife including:
    1. delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the retention and enhancement of the condition of existing grassland and scrub;
    2. Potential opportunities including retention of mature trees with veteran features along the north boundary, woodland retention and management, grassland management and potential for wildflower-rich grassland creation.
    3. Seek to avoid / minimise the potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation associated with development, and the threat of disturbance and degradation associated with its long-term occupation (as identified in the LoWS Review 2026).
  3. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. active travel links to include connections and improvements to Bakers Lane, LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes; and
    2. North Station Mobility Hub.

All development proposals within Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Policy PP5: Land at Chesterwell, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 50 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: restoration of the previous line of the watercourse and creation of higher distinctiveness grassland in the north of the site.
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. maintaining a physical buffer to Braiswick Farmhouse in the north;
    2. limits on building heights;
    3. the use of green space (especially in the north);
    4. keeping access away from the area of the listed building;
    5. further work of archaeological evaluation is recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development.
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. North Station Mobility Hub;
    2. Relevant LCWIP routes.

All development proposals within Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Policy PP6: Land at Colchester Station, Colchester Comment Residential Allocation (1) North Station Mixed Use Area (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 250 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Commercial floorspace to serve commuters and the surrounding community.
  3. Priority route for active travel through the site from east to west linking with existing active travel routes. A pedestrian connection should be provided to the underpass to Charter Wood, and the railway underpass upgraded through lighting, CCTV or murals to make it user friendly and safe.
  4. Priority interchange facilities and shared mobility hub to support active travel modes.
  5. Enhancements to the station as a transport / mobility hub and the associated sense of arrival and enhanced public realm including considering the context and relationship of the built form to the wider landscape through townscape analysis.
  6. Consolidated parking provision for the station with no net loss of parking capacity.
  7. Servicing needs to avoid conflicts between pedestrian and car borne station users.
  8. Solutions to address the risk of surface water and groundwater flooding across the entire site.
  9. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site.
  10. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. active travel links to include connections and improvements to LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes to the station and city centre, and
    2. North Station Mobility Hub.

All development proposals within Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Policy PP7: Land at Bakers Lane, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 120 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Provide a safe and direct pedestrian connection to an existing footway within close proximity to the site and ensure connectivity with existing Public Rights of Way.
  3. Maximise opportunities for the site for wildlife including:
    1. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities including for the following onsite habitat: buffering and expanding Co94 Lexden Dyke LoWS and woodland habitat with new planting including structured edge habitat and retaining and enhancing the condition of existing grassland and scrub;
    2. Retain and create woodland edge around Lexden Dyke LoWS and Priority habitat.
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the preservation and enhancement of the Scheduled Monument and associated archaeological remains, any works will require Scheduled Monument consent;
    2. protection of Moat Farm Dyke ancient woodland through appropriate buffer;
    3. retention and enhancement of trees, hedgerows and other landscape features in and around the site;
    4. a layout that reflects the historic field patterns and landscape character;
    5. the use of green infrastructure to break up built form and avoid large, uniform blocks of development;
    6. protection of views and the setting of nearby heritage assets;
    7. site access to be located to the north-west away from the area of ancient woodland;
    8. establish principles over treatment of setting and archaeological evaluation and management.
  5. Development will need to protect and enhance the setting of the Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM), with no built development within the SAM. Proposals must demonstrate how the SAM will be protected during and after development. A significant buffer will be required, which could form part of the open space provision. The full extent of this buffer should be agreed with Historic England. No groundworks should be carried out within the area of the SAM without Scheduled Monument Consent from Historic England.
  6. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. active travel links to include connections and improvements to LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes and a walking route access to bus stop on Bakers Lane;
    2. North Station Mobility Hub;
    3. Improvements to A12 including junction 27.

All development proposals within Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers and consultees including Historic England, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.10Land at Bakers Lane presents an opportunity to contribute towards housing delivery in a sustainable location on the edge of Colchester. Development will need to address environmental, landscape and heritage considerations. The site contains and adjoins assets of national significance, including the Moat Farm Dyke Scheduled Monument and areas of ancient woodland, and retains a rural character which contributes positively to the significance and setting of those assets.

12.11 Policy PP7 therefore adopts a landscape-led and heritage-informed approach to development. The extent, layout and form of new development will need to respond positively to the site's constraints and opportunities, with the most sensitive areas retained as open land and incorporated within a comprehensive green infrastructure framework. Development proposals should be informed by the findings of the Heritage Impact Assessment and any subsequent archaeological investigations, ensuring that the significance of heritage assets and their settings is conserved and, where possible, better revealed.

12.12Careful consideration should also be given to the site's topography, existing vegetation, historic field pattern and wider landscape setting. The retention and enhancement of existing trees, woodland and hedgerows, together with the provision of appropriate green buffers and open spaces, will be important in integrating development into the landscape and maintaining the character of the area.

12.13The allocation is under multiple ownerships and early engagement between landowners, developers, infrastructure providers and the Council is encouraged. A coordinated approach to design and infrastructure delivery can help maximise opportunities for landscape enhancement, heritage conservation, connectivity and high-quality placemaking across the site.

Policy PP8: Land at Lakelands Crescent, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 5 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards to be taken from Wren Close and agreed with the Highway Authority.

Policy PEP4: Maldon Road, Colchester Comment View map Employment

Land west of the Colchester Recycling Centre, Maldon Road, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses, and where appropriate opportunities for intensification, will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. preserve the association of the site with Brickwall Farmhouse and the isolated character of the building, avoiding development in the south-western part of the site;
    2. preserve the rural character of the area, especially the western end of the site, avoiding large buildings here;
    3. tree lines to the north, east and south of the site should be preserved and enhanced to maintain visual screening for nearby heritage assets;

      Access should be located to the north-east in order to reduce traffic and visual intrusions;

    4. prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify and archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  2. The site is within a Waste Consultation Area (WCA). Applications made within WCAs are required to include a Waste Infrastructure Impact Assessment (WIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of WIIA given proximity to Shrub End Recycling Centre for Household Waste.
  3. Contributions will be required towards improvements to Warren Lane/ Maldon Road Junction.

Policy PP9: North-East Colchester Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. A predominantly residential development including community infrastructure, strategic open space and approximately 2,000 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development. The number of new dwellings could be lower if the requirements below result in less developable land.
  2. 'Enhanced Open Space' as shown on the Policies Map substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space. Open space shall protect and reinforce existing landscape structure, maximise the width of the undeveloped corridor between Colchester and the proposed Garden Community, retain and enhance existing Public Rights of Way, and provide opportunities for habitat creation, informal recreation, active travel and contributions to on-site SANG.
  3. Provision of a new local centre to serve the new and existing local community. This may include provision of retail, commercial and community facilities at an appropriate scale, relevant to the role and function of a local centre and the communities it is intended to serve.
  4. An active travel plan to be agreed with the Council which ensures site wide active travel connectivity including a connection across the railway line, links within and beyond the site and provides a connected network of multifunctional green infrastructure incorporating retained Public Rights of Way, connections and enhancements to the Colchester Orbital, new circular walking routes, green corridors and accessible strategic open spaces, maintaining attractive recreational links both within the site and to the surrounding countryside, which may contribute to the provision for SANG.
  5. Sufficient ecological surveys must be conducted across the site by the applicant to inform how the threat of habitat loss, fragmentation and impacts on biodiversity can be avoided and minimised. To avoid and mitigate impacts to biodiversity, the proposal must:
    1. Include protection from recreational disturbance to, and enhance ecological connectivity between, Bullock Wood SSSI, Welsh Wood LoWS, Walls Wood LoWS and the Salary Brook Strategic Biodiversity Area through the use of buffers around the SSSI and LoWS' and creation of habitat corridors;
    2. ensure an arboricultural consultant with VETcert certification determines the location of any veteran trees on site and prepares a management plan to ensure any veteran trees are retained and impacts on them mitigated;
    3. include a minimum 50 metre buffer to Bullock Wood SSSI, which could form part of on-site SANG provision. Any variation will need to be justified by evidence to demonstrate the use of a greater or lesser buffer. A hydrological impact assessment must also be undertaken to inform the layout and scale of the buffer, alongside design of any water reuse/drainage features, to ensure development does not impact on the movement of water in a way that could cause habitat deterioration. The contribution of the ancient woodland to landscape character, settlement setting and visual containment should also be recognised. The extent of the buffer must be agreed through consultation with Natural England;
    4. determine if parts of the site could meet LoWS criteria through presence of notable bird population such as skylark and existing hedgerow with trees forming a wildlife corridor having regard to information in the Colchester LoWS report (2026). Where part of the site may meet LoWS selection criteria, ensure appropriate mitigation and compensation measures incorporated into the design of the proposal including potential for a wildlife corridor and bird corridor.
  6. The Salary Brook watercourse present within the site must be protected and buffered, with water quality protected and the biodiversity value conserved and enhanced.
  7. Demonstrate that there is capacity available in the sewerage network and at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the proposal for treatment and discharge. Where insufficient capacity is available to serve the proposal at the point of anticipated connection, development will be required to be phased, or otherwise appropriately managed, to ensure that connections do not take place until the necessary infrastructure capacity is available.
  8. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the protection of ancient woodland and its setting through the provision of appropriate buffers to the north-west and south-east of the site;
    2. utilising areas of green space to break up areas of development and allow views between areas of woodland;
    3. utilising areas of woodland planting to maintain connections with the surrounding rural landscape;
    4. building heights and massing that respect the site’s heritage and landscape context;
    5. a plan and layout informed by the surviving post-medieval historic field pattern;
    6. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary. These additional works will be secured through the use of conditions and legal agreements;
  9. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.
  10. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  11. In addition to any relevant requirements under Policy ST7 the development will need to provide:
    1. A two form entry primary school co-located with early years within the site on a parcel of land measuring 2.2ha;
    2. additional clinical capacity at Highwoods GP or alternative increased GP provision in the local area;
    3. Formal and informal sport and leisure provision should be provided on site aligned with an approved masterplan and informed by an open space, sport and recreation strategy which responds to evidence of local need which may form part of the on-site Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG);
  12. Financial contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes, links within and beyond the site and provides a connected network of incorporating including connections and enhancements to the Colchester Orbital and existing Public Rights of Way.
    2. Improvements to Parsons Heath/ Harwich Road/ Bromley Road junction;
    3. Improvements to Ipswich Road / Severalls Lane junction
    4. Improvements to St Johns Road / Parsons Heath junction
    5. Mobility Hubs including Bromley Road Schools Hub, Ipswich Road/Severalls Lane Hub and City Centre Bus interchange

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.14The North-East Colchester allocation is located on the outskirts of the urban edge of Colchester and presents an opportunity to deliver a co-ordinated approach to growth in a sustainable location. There are parts of the site which are more ecologically valuable and sensitive, notably the areas of ancient woodland alongside those holding landscape value at a community and district level such as the Salary Brook valley.

12.15PP9 therefore outlines an approach to development informed by key landscape and ecological evidence. The policy seeks to protect ecologically valuable and sensitive areas through using appropriate buffers around ancient woodland or identifying land as open space that is not to be used for built development. The policy also outlines how ecological connectivity throughout the site will be required, whilst also providing opportunity for residents to enjoy and travel through the area’s green networks. This approach to protecting ecology also supports the need to protect and reinforce the areas of higher landscape value, which is also required through ensuring the site design responds to its historic context.

12.16The allocation is under multiple ownerships and early engagement between landowners, developers, infrastructure providers and the Council is encouraged. A coordinated approach to design and infrastructure delivery can help maximise opportunities for landscape and ecological enhancement, connectivity and high-quality placemaking across the site. Sustainable connectivity across the railway line will be important to achieve sustainable development and successful place making. A comprehensive masterplanned approach is required by Policy PP9.

12.17For strategic sites of 500 dwellings or more, early and ongoing collaboration between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be essential to ensure that wastewater infrastructure is planned and delivered in a coordinated, timely and environmentally sustainable manner, particularly where there are constraints within the existing foul drainage network and/or wastewater recycling centre capacity.

12.18A comprehensive site-wide foul drainage strategy should be prepared and agreed at an early stage of the development process. This should identify the preferred long-term solution, including a single sustainable point of connection to the public sewerage network, and demonstrate how the necessary wastewater infrastructure will be secured and delivered alongside development.

12.19Where temporary drainage arrangements are required to facilitate early phases of development, these must be appropriately controlled, time-limited and linked to clearly defined triggers for the delivery and operation of permanent infrastructure. Development phasing should be aligned with the timely provision of wastewater infrastructure to avoid adverse impacts on network performance, receiving watercourses and the environment.

12.20Close partnership working between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be required throughout the planning, delivery and occupation of the site to ensure that growth is supported by adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity and integrated with longer-term investment programmes, thereby facilitating sustainable development and environmental protection.

12.21The Water Cycle Study has identified significant potential for nature-based solutions (NBS) as the site borders the Salary Brook. Applicants are encouraged to contribute towards NBS opportunities and incorporate similar NBS in their site as part of SuDS delivery.

Policy PP10: Land South of Berechurch Hall Road, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. A predominantly residential development including community infrastructure, strategic open space and approximately 875 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development
  2. Safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards with access via the adjoining development off Berechurch Hall Road and off Layer Road, to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  3. An active travel plan to be agreed with the Council which ensures site wide active travel connectivity including links beyond the site. This should include incorporating off road walking and cycling routes, and links to Public Rights of Way including bridleways, to enable connections to Gosbecks and Friday Woods and the existing Public Rights of Way Network.
  4. Provision of bus stops to serve the development proposal to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  5. Provision of a new local centre to serve the new and existing local community. This may include provision of retail, commercial and community facilities at an appropriate scale, relevant to the role and function of a local centre and the communities it is intended to serve. The location of the centre should be informed by Masterplanning and should recognise the need for a community centre in this location.
  6. Enhancement of the quality and value of Camulodonum Way open space.
  7. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: improving east to west connectivity between Gosbecks to the west and Friday Woods to the east (which are strategic priority areas for biodiversity).
  8. Measures to mitigate the impacts of recreational disturbance to the Roman River Valley SSSI.
  9. Demonstrate that there is capacity available in the sewerage network and at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the proposal for treatment and discharge. Where insufficient capacity is available to serve the proposal at the point of anticipated connection, development will be required to be phased, or otherwise appropriately managed, to ensure that connections do not take place until the necessary infrastructure capacity is available.
  10. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025 and 2026 update) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. The retention and enhancement of planting around the edges of the site to provide natural screening between heritage assets and new development;
    2. A gradual increase in density and scale of development, particularly from the western edge;
    3. Limits on building heights;
    4. establish principles over treatment of setting, and archaeological evaluation and management;
  11. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. improvements to public transport including provision of new bus stop(s) Berechurch Hall Road / Layer Road;
    2.  Relevant LCWIP routes
  12. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  13. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.22For strategic sites of 500 dwellings or more, early and ongoing collaboration between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be essential to ensure that wastewater infrastructure is planned and delivered in a coordinated, timely and environmentally sustainable manner, particularly where there are constraints within the existing foul drainage network and/or wastewater recycling centre capacity.

12.23A comprehensive site-wide foul drainage strategy should be prepared and agreed at an early stage of the development process. This should identify the preferred long-term solution, including a single sustainable point of connection to the public sewerage network, and demonstrate how the necessary wastewater infrastructure will be secured and delivered alongside development.

12.24Where temporary drainage arrangements are required to facilitate early phases of development, these must be appropriately controlled, time-limited and linked to clearly defined triggers for the delivery and operation of permanent infrastructure. Development phasing should be aligned with the timely provision of wastewater infrastructure to avoid adverse impacts on network performance, receiving watercourses and the environment.

12.25Close partnership working between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be required throughout the planning, delivery and occupation of the site to ensure that growth is supported by adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity and integrated with longer-term investment programmes, thereby facilitating sustainable development and environmental protection.

Policy PP11: Europit Site, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 40 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Proposals should be mindful of the sites urban area context and the opportunity to provide higher densities and compact forms of development that ensure an efficient use of land;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. Enhancement of the setting of nearby designated and non-designated heritage assets;
    2. Reinforcement of the historic character and building line of Magdalen Street;
    3. The retention and creation of key views towards St Botolph’s Church and Priory;
    4. Active street frontages;
    5. Building heights and massing that respond positively to the surrounding historical environment;
    6. to undertake archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  4. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8, EN8a and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area CDA 003 - Abbey Gate;
    2. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes and
    3. Hythe Station Mobility Hub maximising opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the City Centre, Colchester Town Station and Hythe.

Policy PP14: Gas Works and Hythe Scrap Yard Site Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 200 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and be compatible with surrounding development;
  2. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. A development form that responds positively to the character of surrounding development and the waterfront setting;
    2. Views of church towers to be retained;
    3. undertake further medieval and paleoenvironmental archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  3. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Relevant LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes,
    2. Enhance to Public Open space outlined in PPOSS;
    3. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Areas CDA 013 Hythe Quay and CDA 02 The Hythe. Any surface water should be discharged at the 1in1 greenfield rate;
    4. Active travel links that maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the City Centre, mobility hubs and railway stations and opportunities to maximise the use of sustainable transport;
    5. to upgrade existing walking and cycling routes in the area including connections to PROW Colchester 144

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

Policy PP15: Hawkins Road, Colchester Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 50 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and be compatible with surrounding development;
  2. Active travel links that maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the City Centre and railway stations and opportunities to maximise the use of sustainable transport;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. A development form that responds positively to the character of surrounding development and the waterfront setting;
    2. Reuse buildings wherever possible;
    3. Views of church towers to be retained;
    4. Taller buildings should be located along the riverside;
    5. undertake further medieval and paleoenvironmental archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
    6. Proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s historic industrial and maritime.
  4. No residential development at ground floor level within flood zone 3 and only essential infrastructure or water compatible land used in flood zone 3b areas;
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Relevant LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes;
    2. Hythe Station Mobility Hub.
    3. the restoration of the riverside footpath to deliver sufficient public realm enhancements appropriate to the local context, maximising the potential of the riverside location and improving the environment, through biodiversity improvements and the protection of water quality, increasing connectivity and providing convenient public access for pedestrians and cyclists
    4. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area CDA 08 - Parsons Heath and surface water should be discharged at the 1in1 greenfield rate.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

Policy PP50: BT site, Cowdray Avenue Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 40 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: tree planting, open mosaic habitat;
  3. Secure and contribute towards improving active travel links and connections, including relevant LCWIP routes, to the City Centre, Mobility Hubs, Colchester Orbital and the railway station;
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area COL005 (St Anne’s).

Policy PP51: Former Land Rover Site, Cowdray Avenue Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 25 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Secure and contribute towards improving active travel links and connections (including to relevant LCWIP routes) to the City Centre, Mobility Hubs, Colchester Orbital, the railway station and Castellum Grange;
  3. Contributions will be required towards flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area COL007 (Mile End).

Policy PP52: BT Repeater Station, Guildford Road Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 25 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Secure and contribute towards active travel links and connections (including relevant LCWIP routes) to the City Centre, Mobility Hubs, Colchester Orbital and the railway station
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures. Including but not limited to:
    1. respond positively to the sites historic association with the former East Hill Brewery, contributing to the character and appearance of the conservation area and its setting.
    2. Restriction of building heights and density to ensure development does not obstruct long range views of the Church of St James and St Paul or overshadow historic buildings along East Hill or appear unduly prominent in views from the street
    3. prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  4. Contributions will be required towards flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area COL003 (Abbey Gate).

Policy PP53: Land at Chapman’s Farm, Nayland Road Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 35 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: hedgerow retention and enhancement, tree planting;
  3. Secure active travel links and connections to the City Centre and railway station.
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. North Station Mobility Hub;
    2. Relevant LCWIP routes.

Policy PP54: Sheepen Place Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 100 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Secure active travel links and connections to City Centre, mobility hub and railway station;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site, Including but not limited to:
    1. Design and layout measures should include sensitive treatment of the river frontage;
    2. Careful consideration of building height, scale and massing;
    3. Use of breaks in the built form to preserve and where possible enhance views from North Bridge and North Station Road Conservation area; and
    4. Previous archaeological evaluation should be reviewed in inform the development layout and mitigation strategy
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area COL012 (Balkerne Hill roundabout);
    2. Colchester Mobility Hubs.

Policy PP55: Land adjacent Lethe Grove Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 75 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs which responds appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Development of housing for military personnel connected to a nearby operational MOD establishment will be supported provided it satisfies all relevant policy requirements in the Local Plan;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site, including but not limited to:
    1. appropriate green infrastructure buffer along the western edge to protect the setting of Berechurch Dyke Scheduled Monument and the potential line of the WWII anti-tank ditch;
    2. the extent and treatment of the western buffer to be agreed through consultation;
    3. the retention of an open and legible western corridor, avoiding built form, intrusive lighting, hard engineering and dense planting;
    4. the design of development layouts, access routes, service corridors, drainage infrastructure and construction methodologies to avoid or minimise impacts on Berechurch Dyke;
    5. the incorporation of the historic alignment and character of Black Heath within the development; and
    6. an archaeological assessment, evaluation and consultation including geophysical survey and targeted investigation.
  4. Secure active travel links and connections to the City Centre, a Mobility Hub and Colchester Orbital.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Colchester High Street Mobility Hub;
    2. Relevant LCWIP routes.

Growth and Opportunity Areas

Northern Gateway

12.26The area known as Northern Gateway includes the recent development of the Colchester Sports Park and the leisure uses off Junction 28 of the A12.

12.27The remaining areas of land which are part of Northern Gateway which are undeveloped are safeguarded for future development opportunities covered by Policy OA4 for a mix of uses including residential, open space and commercial uses.

Policy OA4: Northern Gateway Comment Northern Gateway Opportunity Area (1) Northern Gateway Mixed Use Site (2) Employment (3)

The area shown on the policies map comprising the former Rugby club and surrounding land will be safeguarded for the following purposes as outlined below. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, proposals will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 650 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs which responds appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Provision of employment on land north of Axial Way as shown on the policies map allocated for employment, primarily for office use within E class in accordance with Policy E1, having regard to the neighbouring uses
  3. Residential and town centre uses will not be supported on the mixed use and employment areas north of Axial Way and land north of A12
  4. Proposals for new foodstore provision will be supported within the mixed-use area defined on the proposals map on land south of Axial Way, subject to addressing the sequential and impact tests and other policies in this plan. New foodstore provision in this area will respond to the identified need for additional convenience goods floorspace in Colchester, in particular the North Colchester area (Retail, Leisure and Town Centre Study: Update 2026).
  5. Open space provision as identified on the policies map.
  6. Provision for an emergency services hub within the mixed-use area identified on the Policies Map will be supported subject to other policies in this plan.
  7. Provision for a range of other uses including but not limited to, housing for care, commercial, health care provision, energy infrastructure, employment generating uses and recreation / community provision will also be supported subject to other policies in this plan.
  8. Provision for a new local centre to serve the new and existing local community, this may include provision of retail, commercial and community facilities at an appropriate scale, relevant to the role and function of a local centre and the communities it is intended to serve. Proposals for main town centre uses will be subject to the sequential test while any retail / leisure uses above 350sqm gross floorspace will be subject to the impact test.
  9. Safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards via Axial Way to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  10. Proposals within the area defined on the policies map as OA4 will also need to maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity through green infrastructure and sustainable travel links, in particular opportunities to maximise the potential of the Rapid Transit System, the Park and Ride facility and other local links, including the Colchester Orbital and nearby footpaths and bridleways.
  11. Provision for adequate wastewater capacity must be provided before commencement of development for all proposals that will create an increase to flows. Applicants will be required to demonstrate that there is capacity available at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the site for treatment and discharge including proposed phasing requirements or alternative solutions to the satisfaction of the Council and Anglian Water
  12. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site;
  13. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.
  14. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Relevant LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes
    2. Improvements to the road network in the Mill Road Corridor
    3. A Mobility Hub
    4. A new bus route serving Axial Way/Colchester Business Park

All development proposals within Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Area will also be determined against the policies in the Myland and Braiswick Neighbourhood Plan Review (adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Hythe Opportunity Areas

12.28The Hythe area is a former commercial harbour which includes some rundown and underused industrial land. There has been change in this area over the last few years, through expansion of the University of Essex and additional student accommodation. The area is a long-established regeneration area that seeks to deliver sustainable, mixed-use neighbourhoods, identifying the River Colne as a feature and respecting the historic character of the area.

12.29 There is good access to Hythe railway station and the area is located close to the University of Essex and City Centre but is constrained by flooding due to its proximity to the River Colne.

12.30Sites are allocated for residential development in this area (see policies PP14 and PP15). However, there are additional opportunities at the Hythe, through wider regeneration. Regeneration will involve partnership working with public sector agencies, the local community and other key stakeholders including Community Land Trusts and the Hythe Task and Finish Group (responding to flooding issues in the area).

12.31The Council, Environment Agency and Department for Communities and Local Government agreed in 2008 that sites within the East Colchester Regeneration Area could be flood risk sequentially tested within the regeneration area boundary rather than against sites across the borough, recognising the wider sustainable development benefits of continuing regeneration in the Hythe area. This approach was reaffirmed by the Environment Agency in 2017, and the Council requested its continuation for this Local Plan in June 2025. The majority of the regeneration area lies within areas of high flood risk and there are no reasonably available alternative sites at a lower flood risk within the area. Land in Flood Zones 1 and 2 is already developed, in active use, and has not been identified as available or suitable for residential development.

Policy OA1: King Edward Quay Opportunity Area Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development will be encouraged and supported on land identified on the policies map for mixed-use proposals including approximately 200 homes, where it contributes to achieving the following objectives:

  1. Provides a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Active travel links that maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the City Centre, mobility hubs and railway stations and opportunities to maximise the use of sustainable transport;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. A development form that responds positively to the character of surrounding development and the waterfront setting;
    2. Views of church towers to be retained;
    3. Taller buildings should be located along the riverside;
    4. Undertake further medieval and paleoenvironmental archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
    5. Proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s historic industrial and maritime context.
  4. Softening of the environment around the electricity substation to minimise its intrusive impact on the surrounding area;
  5. Proposals should consider the opportunity to improve and enhance the river environment and explore opportunities for river restoration, enhancement and provision of flood storage areas;
  6. Development proposals should respond positively to the setting of the nearby Distillery Pond Conservation Area in the design and layout;
  7. The site is within a Waste Consultation Area (WCA). Applications made within WCAs are required to include a Waste Infrastructure Impact Assessment (WIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of WIIA given proximity to Hythe WWTW and Haven Road Recycling Centre.
  8. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes;
    2. Enhancement of Open space outlined in PPOSS
    3. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and recommendations in the Surface Water Management Plan for Critical Drainage Areas 01 (Old Heath) and 02 (The Hythe) and surface water should be discharged at the 1in1 greenfield rate;
    4. The Hythe Mobility Hub.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

Policy OA2: Land East of Hawkins Road Opportunity Area Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development will be encouraged and supported on land identified on the policies map for mixed-use proposals including approximately 150 homes, where it contributes to achieving the following objectives:

  1. Provides a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Active travel links that maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the City Centre, mobility hubs and railway stations and opportunities to maximise the use of sustainable transport;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. A development form that responds positively to the character of surrounding development and the waterfront setting;
    2. Reuse buildings wherever possible;
    3. Views of church towers to be retained;
    4. Taller buildings should be located along the riverside;
    5. Undertake further medieval and paleoenvironmental archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
    6. Proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s historic industrial and maritime context.
  4. Having regard to the fact that parts of the site are subject to flood risk, no residential development will be supported at ground floor level within flood zone 3 and only essential infrastructure or water compatible land used in flood zone 3b areas;
  5. A comprehensive approach to regeneration to respond to constraints such as flood risk and land contamination in accordance with Policy EN9 and recommendations in the Surface Water Management Plan for Critical Drainage Area 08 (Parsons Heath) and surface water should be discharged at the 1in1 greenfield rate;
  6. Proposals should consider the opportunity to improve and enhance the river environment and explore opportunities for river restoration, enhancement and provision of flood storage areas;
  7. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes
    2. enhancement of the Public opens space as identified in PPOSS;
    3. The Hythe Mobility Hub.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

Policy PEP13: Coal Yard Site, Hythe Station Road, Colchester Comment View map Employment

Land at the Coal Yard Site, Hythe Station Road, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Development to ensure it is compatible with the surrounding uses and neighbouring amenity.
  2. Suitable site access off Hythe Station Road to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  3. Active travel links that maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the City Centre and railway stations and opportunities to maximise the use of sustainable transport.
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. A development form that responds positively to the character of surrounding development;
    2. Views of church towers to be retained;
    3. Undertake further medieval and paleoenvironmental archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
    4. Proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s historic industrial and maritime context.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes;
    2. Hythe Station Mobility Hub.
    3. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8 and the Colchester Surface Water Management Plan Recommendations for Critical Drainage Area 08 Parsons Heath.

Magdalen Street – Opportunity Area

12.32Magdalen Street is a key gateway to Colchester City Centre. There are a number of older commercial buildings suitable for reuse and or redevelopment to enhance this area. The area has changed in recent years through the development of student accommodation and supermarkets.

12.33The area is located close to Colchester Town railway station, and future redevelopment is planned as a part of the Transforming the City Centre project, funded by the Town Deal and Levelling Up Funds. This includes improvements to the St Botolph junction to modernise the area creating a better balance between pedestrians, cyclists and motorists and improve the public space, public realm enhancement through Britannia Car Park and St Botolph’s Priory to create a welcoming entrance to the city. 

Policy OA3: Magdalen Street Opportunity Area Comment Residential Allocation (1) Residential Allocation (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development will be encouraged and supported on land identified on the policies map for mixed-use proposals including approximately 85 homes, where it contributes to achieving the following objectives:

  1. Provides a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. A comprehensive approach to regeneration in accordance with the City Centre Masterplan (adopted January 2024)
  3. Consideration of existing businesses where possible or consider relocation where necessary;
  4. Provide for a compatible mix of uses having regard to neighbouring amenity;
  5. Provide pedestrian and cycle routes and connections to link to the City Centre, and wider networks including contributions to LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes, a mobility hub and St Botolph’s Circle Roundabout;
  6. Ensure new developments are responsive to the distinctive historic character of the area and reinforce the significance of the New Town Conservation Area designation through the reuse of heritage assets;
  7. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. enhancement of the setting of nearby designated and non-designated heritage assets;
    2. reinforcement of the historic character and building line of Magdalen Street;
    3. the retention and creation of key views towards St Botolph’s Church and Priory;
    4. active street frontages;
    5. building heights and massing that respond positively to the surrounding historical environment;
    6. to undertake archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  8. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. flood risk solutions, in accordance with Policy EN8and recommendations in the Surface Water Management Plan for Critical Drainage Area COL 003 (Abbey Gate).

University of Essex and Knowledge Gateway

12.34The Council recognises the value of the University of Essex and the Knowledge Gateway to Colchester City’s economy and the vitality and viability of the city centre and will work in partnership to maximise the economic and social benefits associated with the University and Knowledge Gateway. Policies in the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community DPD may also be relevant.

Policy PEP2 Knowledge Gateway Comment View map Employment

The area shown on the policies map comprising the Knowledge Gateway will be safeguarded for employment purposes in accordance with Policy E1 to allow for provision of a range of additional jobs and to accommodate expansion of the existing research and technology uses.

Within this area the Council will continue to support the growth and retention of the Research Park, and where appropriate, opportunities for intensification of employment uses. All land and premises within this area will be safeguarded for employment uses, primarily for office use within E class where appropriate and non-B class employment generating uses of a scale and type compatible with the Research Park. Encouragement will also be given to uses which can be shown to be directly linked to the development of research associated with the University of Essex and to the provision of business incubator units. Proposals for uses which are not for office use within E class or where it cannot be demonstrated that they are linked to the Research Park will only be supported where they:

  1. Are ancillary to the existing employment uses on the site and are intended to serve the primary function of the site as an employment area and research park;
  2. Provide the opportunity to maximise the sites potential for economic growth;
  3. Support the continued operation of existing employment uses within the employment area and in particular its focus for research and technology contributing towards the delivery of the overall vision;
  4. Do not generate potential conflict with the existing proposed E class uses and activities on the site.

    In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements and subject to compliance with all other policies, proposals for employment uses should provide:

    1. Active travel links that maximise opportunities for enhanced connectivity to the surrounding area including the Garden Community, University, City Centre and Hythe Station and opportunities to maximise the use of sustainable transport;
    2. Colchester Mobility Hubs
    3. Relevant LCWIP routes
  5. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the preservation of the Grade II Registered Park and Garden in the east of the site;
    2. the retention of the listed building in the west of the site;
    3. the use of a view corridor through the site continuing the route of Annan Road;
    4. the preservation of the green space and planting in the east of the site to preserve views of the parkland;
    5. the retention and enhancement of the planting around Salarybrook Farmhouse to retain its separation from new development;
    6. limits on the heights of buildings so that they so not dominate view;
    7. establish principles over treatment of designated assets;
  6. Demonstrate how the value of Wivenhoe Park Local Wildlife Site could be enhanced, which could be through the provision of green infrastructure.

Policy UE1 University of Essex Comment View map University Uses

The area shown on the policies map is designated for University uses adjoining the Knowledge Gateway Employment Area and the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community. Within this area, (in addition to opportunities provided through the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community DPD and stated in policy ST9), development will be supported which enables significant expansion of the University of Essex, if needed. Policy PEP2 and the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community DPD seek to safeguard the retention and expansion of the Knowledge Gateway to allow for provision of a range for additional jobs and to accommodate expansion of the existing research and technology uses which build on the benefits of the University.

Any proposals for the expansion of the University will be required to provide good public transport, pedestrian and cycle links ensuring good connectivity to and from the City Centre, Hythe railway station, the Knowledge Gateway and the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community. This may include contributing to Colchester Mobility Hubs and the Colchester Orbital route.

Proposals will need to pay special regard to the preservation and enhancement of the Grade II listed Wivenhoe House and its Registered Park and Garden, including the wider setting of these heritage assets. Consideration should be given to how the value of Wivenhoe Park Local Wildlife Site might be enhanced, which could be through the provision of green infrastructure.

Development will be expected to contribute to the cost of direct infrastructure improvements as required, supported by up-to-date evidence in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IADP) or subsequent evidence which will be secured to an appropriate level by way of legal agreement.


Marks Tey Growth Area

12.35Marks Tey is located at the junction of the A12 and A120. It is essentially a linear settlement that, while being sustainably located has been fragmented by the railway line and the A12/A120. It contains a good range of facilities which are located in different sections of the village; a railway station to the east providing an interchange between the mainline to London and branch services; a larger area of modern housing, a village hall, commercial areas and the primary school to the west and retail facilities to the south of the A12.

12.36Large areas of land have previously been promoted for development in and around Marks Tey and there is an opportunity for Garden Village scale growth which could help reconnect the village. Its strategic location along with the benefits the train station brings, add weight to the potential for expansion. However, there is also recognition that infrastructure improvements will be required in order to support development at the scale promoted. Accordingly, the Plan allocates sites for housing which could deliver up to 2,500 new homes within the plan period, but on the proviso that it can be demonstrated that additional vehicular movements can be safely accommodated on the A12 and A120 without significantly increasing congestion.

12.37Additional employment land is also allocated, recognising the areas potential given its location on the strategic road network and its position in relation to Stanstead to the west and the Haven ports to the west.

12.38The policies below reflect the fact that it is not anticipated that all the growth promoted can be accommodated without significant upgrades to the A12 and A120. The Opportunity Area designation is intended to demonstrate that some development would be acceptable within the overall sites, subject to further evidence and mitigation being agreed with the highway authority and National Highways.

Policy OA5: Marks Tey Growth Area Comment Marks Tey Growth Area (1) Copford Strategic Green Gap (2) Roman River Corridor (3)

The Marks Tey Growth Area is proposed as shown on the Policies Map and the Framework Plan.

The Growth Area will be holistically and comprehensively planned with a distinct identity that responds directly to its context and is of sufficient scale to incorporate a range of homes; employment; education, health and community facilities; and green spaces to enable residents to meet the majority of their day-to-day needs and maximise opportunities for active and sustainable travel. It will be comprehensively planned from the outset, with delivery phased to achieve the whole development, and will be underpinned by a comprehensive package of infrastructure. Proposals will be supported where they accord with the requirements set out in the Masterplan (which could be adopted as a Supplementary Plan) once adopted and other relevant policies.

A) The Growth Area will deliver:

  1. Approximately 2,500 homes within the Plan period (as part of an expected larger development to be delivered beyond 2043)
  2. Approximately 18 hectares of employment land within the Plan period (as part of an expected overall total of at least 40 hectares of employment land to be delivered beyond 2043).
  3. Strategic open space, incorporating multifunctional uses.
  4. Improvements to transport corridors, enhanced sustainable connectivity including to the station, and supporting infrastructure including physical, social and community facilities.

B) A Masterplan and delivery framework will be prepared for the Growth Area which will set out how the new community will be designed, developed and delivered in phases, in accordance with the principles in the paragraphs below and as illustrated in the Framework Plan. This will be produced as a Supplementary Plan (or adopted guidance as appropriate) subject to the following minimum requirements:

  1. To be informed by an appropriate evidence base.
  2. To ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery which is characterised as a distinctive place that capitalises on local assets, respects its context, and establishes an environment that promotes health, happiness and wellbeing.
  3. To be informed through collaboration with relevant infrastructure providers.
  4. A long term community engagement strategy to be prepared and agreed as part of the masterplan to incorporate community and stakeholder participation in the design, and delivery and management of the Growth Area. Involvement of the relevant Parish Councils will be required as a key part of this engagement strategy.
  5. At an early stage in the development of the Growth Area, the principles should be agreed for appropriate and sustainable long-term governance for the community facilities and green spaces as appropriate.
  6. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan is to be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/ or guidance.
  7. Ensure that the costs and benefits of developing the Growth Area are shared by all landowners, with appropriate measures being put in place to equalise the costs and land contributions.

C) Planning proposals for major housing and employment will not be supported until the Masterplan / Supplementary Plan has been adopted. It is expected that the Masterplan will further develop the concepts identified in the Framework Plan which shows the essential spatial distribution of key land use and infrastructure principles to which the Masterplan will align, including but not limited to:

  1. Establishing a growth area approach to development density and parking which reflects the efficient use of land and maximises the opportunities for sustainable connectivity particularly in the areas closest to the station. In areas within reasonable walking distances of the station, housing development must be delivered at higher densities with highest densities closest to the station as indicated on the framework plan.
  2. Provision of employment opportunities within the new community to be well connected to existing and new homes, the type and location to be determined by through the Masterplanning work.
  3. Delivery of improvements to the strategic transport corridor and a package of active travel infrastructure improvements, including a new / improved sustainable route across the A12 and A120, providing an active travel network and a new ‘park and choose’ facility. This is to include the delivery of a new green sustainable route throughout the growth area providing the opportunity for enhanced sustainable access away from the A120 to the Station and to provide safe crossings of the A120 / A12 and railway line as indicated on the framework plan.
  4. Safeguarding the route of the A12 widening scheme in accordance with the approved Development Consent Order to allow for potential upgrading in the future as shown on the Framework Plan.
  5. Designation of land on the south eastern edge of the Growth Area as a Marks Tey – Copford Strategic Green Gap for the purpose of preventing the coalescence of the two settlements as shown on the Framework Plan and the Policies Map.
  6. Provision of at least 49ha of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspaces (SANG) broadly indicated on the Framework Plan, the details of which are to be integrated into the Masterplanning and to reflect placemaking and the guidelines for SANG provision. Develop opportunities to create significant networks of new green infrastructure including three new parks (two of which could serve as SANGs), provide a high degree of connectivity to existing corridors and networks and enhance biodiversity and local nature recovery.
  7. Provision of new and improved local centres at suitable locations distributed across the areas of development north and south of the A120 informed by the Masterplanning.
  8. Provision for secondary, primary and early years education in consultation with the Local Education Authority including 12.4ha of land to support a new secondary school south of the A120, and two sites (each of 2.2ha) for new primary schools including Early Years & Childcare facilities, one to the north and one to the south of the A12/A120.
  9. Create distinctive environments which are based on comprehensive assessments of the surrounding environment and that celebrate natural and historic environments and systems.
  10. Development must not harm the special geological interest of the Brickpits SSSI nor the special ecological interest of the Brickpits Local Wildlife Site nor the special architectural and historic interest of the designated heritage assets in the Growth Area.
  11. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals shall have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment, 2026), which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the retention and enhancement of green infrastructure around the Marks Tey Brickpit SSSI, W.H. Collier Brick and Tile Works, Church Lane and land surrounding the Grade I listed Church of St Andrew;
    2. the protection of important views towards the Grade I listed Church of St Andrew and across the Roman River Valley;
    3. the use of landscape buffers, planting and green corridors to soften the appearance of development and maintain the rural character of the area and the setting of nearby heritage assets;
    4. the retention and integration of historic landscape features, including historic hedgerows, field boundaries and the parish boundary and where appropriate, historical routes and archaeological features;
    5. the conservation and incorporation of the Scheduled Monument of Medieval Moat at Marks Hall, the scheduled Monument of the Circular Brick Kilns, the Grade II listed Bottle Kiln, and associated heritage assets relating to Marks Tey Hall and the former W.H. Collier Brick and Tile Works;
    6. appropriate building heights, layout, design and access arrangements to minimise impacts on the significance and setting of designated and non-designated heritage assets; and
    7. prior to the submission of a planning application, the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary
  12. Proposals must demonstrate that there is capacity available in the sewerage network and at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the proposal for treatment and discharge. Where insufficient capacity is available to serve the proposal at the point of anticipated connection, development will be required to be phased, or otherwise appropriately managed, to ensure that connections do not take place until the necessary infrastructure capacity is available.
  13. A Partial Review of the Colchester Local Wildlife Sites Network has identified opportunities including woodland protection and management, hedgerow protection and management, wildflower-rich grassland creation, and pond protection and management. Development proposals should take into account the opportunities included in the site proforma in the LoWS Addendum report (2026) to avoid or minimise the potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation associated with development, and the threat of disturbance and degradation associated with its long-term occupation.
  14. Ecological surveys must determine whether the entire woodland resource and interconnecting hedgerows meet LoWS criteria. The Growth Area is located within an Important Invertebrate Area (IIA) and further exploration of the invertebrate assemblage, through review of species records and, potentially, targeted surveys, must be undertaken to assess eligibility against the LoWS invertebrate criteria. Where part of the site may meet LoWS selection criteria, the criteria must be given the highest priority for protection with appropriate mitigation and compensation measures incorporated into the design of the proposal.
  15. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA. Part of the Growth Area is within a Mineral Consultation Area (MCA). Non-mineral led applications made within MCAs are required to include a Minerals Infrastructure Impact Assessment (MIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of MIIA.

D) In addition to delivering the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in this Policy and Policy ST7, and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, all development forming part of the Growth Area will also be required to make contributions towards;

  • Strategic Road Improvements (A12 and A120)
  • Active travel bridge upgrade across A12 at Marks Tey
  • Extension of LCWIP Cycle Route 3
  • Station Road footway improvements and cycle route
  • Secure cycle hub at Marks Tey Station
  • Lexden Road sustainable travel corridor
  • Rapid Transit System extension/new bus routes
  • Colchester West Park and Choose
  • Other Highway improvements in line with transport evidence and IADP

E) Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken at the appropriate time of year to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.

F) All development Proposals within Marks Tey parish will also be determined against the policies in the Marks Tey Neighbourhood Plan (adopted April 2022) where they are up to date and relevant. Where relevant within the Growth Area Proposals within the Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

12.39The Spatial Strategy for the Marks Tey Growth Area is based on an evidence review, site assessments, land budget modelling and stakeholder liaison. The strategy features three development zones: north and west of the A12 and A120; south of the A12; and north and east of the railway station.

12.40The Spatial Strategy can only be delivered through comprehensive Masterplanning of the whole Growth Area. The Framework Plan has been prepared to illustrate the key spatial principles of the policy area boundary to 2043 and beyond. It is expected that the Masterplan and delivery framework will further develop the concepts identified in the Framework Plan which shows the essential spatial distribution of key land use and infrastructure principles to which the Masterplan will align.

12.41The Framework Plan identifies the land within which the strategy to 2043 will be delivered and the basis for the boundary shown on the Policies Map. Approximately 2,500 homes will be delivered within the Plan period across the development zones. The Framework Plan identifies the area closest to Marks Tey Station with the potential for high density housing, and a transition area where enhanced medium densities should be explored, subject to delivering place making that is sensitive to site constraints.

12.42Approximately 18 hectares of employment land is identified to be delivered within the Plan period, the precise location and nature of which to be determined through Masterplanning. In addition, it is expected that community and social infrastructure will be delivered including education and community uses, and local centres.

12.43The Framework Plan includes an active travel route network, comprising three core routes connecting the three zones. An active travel bridge is a critical component of the active travel network connecting the south development zone to the station and the remainder of the green infrastructure network. The active travel network will connect, encompass and enhance the Public Rights of Way network through the area.

12.44A comprehensive multi functional approach will be taken to the planning and delivery of green infrastructure across the growth area, including the provision of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) connected to the core active travel network, and protecting the SSSI and Local Wildlife Site. An area of open land is identified on the Framework Plan as the Copford Strategic Gap to prevent the coalescence of the south development zone with Copford to the east.

12.45A comprehensive package of high quality active and sustainable transport measures is identified in the Infrastructure Audit and Delivery Plan (IADP) which all development that forms part of the Growth Area will be expected to deliver and make contributions towards. Improvements to the Strategic Road Network are also identified in the IADP. The Framework Plan also safeguards the land for the route of the A12 widening scheme in accordance with the approved Development Consent Order to allow for potential upgrading of the route in the future. The potential for appropriate interim uses of the safeguarded land will be considered as part of the strategy.

12.46The area beyond the growth area, identified as indicative future growth on the Framework Plan, has the potential to enable Marks Tey to continue to grow in a sustainable way after the plan period, but indicating that the settlement will reach a natural geographical limit of distance.

12.47 The Masterplan and delivery framework will be informed through engagement and collaboration including with relevant stakeholders, infrastructure providers, relevant Parish Councils and the community.

12.48For strategic sites of 500 dwellings or more, early and ongoing collaboration between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be essential to ensure that wastewater infrastructure is planned and delivered in a coordinated, timely and environmentally sustainable manner, particularly where there are constraints within the existing foul drainage network and/or wastewater recycling centre capacity.

12.49A comprehensive site-wide foul drainage strategy should be prepared and agreed at an early stage of the development process. This should identify the preferred long-term solution, including a single sustainable point of connection to the public sewerage network, and demonstrate how the necessary wastewater infrastructure will be secured and delivered alongside development.

12.50 Where temporary drainage arrangements are required to facilitate early phases of development, these must be appropriately controlled, time-limited and linked to clearly defined triggers for the delivery and operation of permanent infrastructure. Development phasing should be aligned with the timely provision of wastewater infrastructure to avoid adverse impacts on network performance, receiving watercourses and the environment.

12.51Close partnership working between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be required throughout the planning, delivery and occupation of the site to ensure that growth is supported by adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity and integrated with longer-term investment programmes, thereby facilitating sustainable development and environmental protection.

12.52In addition to the employment land identified within the Growth Area to be delivered within the Plan period, land within the Growth Area is safeguarded in Policy PEP6 for employment purposes. Planning permission for commercial, business and service (Class E c and g), general industrial (Class B2) and storage and distribution (Class B8) purposes on the site which is the land safeguarded in Policy PEP6 was approved in 2023.

Policy PEP6: Anderson’s Site, Marks Tey Comment View map Employment

Land at Anderson’s Site, Marks Tey, as shown on the policies map, is safeguarded for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1.

All development Proposals within Marks Tey parish will also be determined against the policies in the Marks Tey Neighbourhood Plan (adopted April 2022) where they are up to date and relevant.


Large Settlements

12.53Large settlements are key locations for growth within the district, reflecting their greater range of services, facilities and accessibility. In accordance with the spatial strategy, these settlements will accommodate development at a scale appropriate to their role, constraints and opportunities, supporting sustainable patterns of growth and reinforcing their function as service centres for surrounding areas.

12.54 Development will be directed to suitable sites within or well-related to the existing settlement, making efficient use of land and supporting the vitality of local services, facilities and transport options. The scale and distribution of growth will take full account of environmental constraints, infrastructure capacity and local character and wider opportunities which may be realised.

12.55In West Mersea and Wivenhoe, the extent of growth is carefully balanced against significant environmental constraints. Growth in Tiptree reflects its location, service provision and role and function, as well as opportunities associated with delivering the vision as set out in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan. Across the large settlements, proposals will be expected to demonstrate that impacts can be appropriately managed, including cumulatively, and that necessary infrastructure is delivered alongside development.

Tiptree View map Settlement Boundary

12.56Tiptree is a large village located on the southwest boundary of Colchester. Development has grown up around key highway intersections in a roughly triangular built form. There is a small separate cluster of houses to the southwest of the main village known as Tiptree Heath. Tiptree has a district centre with a high number of key services and community facilities. It is the only large village with a secondary school. A neighbourhood plan with site allocations was adopted in 2023. The vision of the neighbourhood plan is to deliver a link road in the north of Tiptree, reducing congestion throughout the village. This plan seeks to build on the work undertaken to inform the Neighbourhood Plan and ensure the vision can be achieved.

Policy PP19: Land North of Oak Road, Tiptree Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. A predominantly residential development including community infrastructure, strategic open space and approximately 650 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. An active travel plan to be agreed with the Council which ensures site wide active travel connectivity including links beyond the site. This must include connections towards the settlement to the South and recreational access to the countryside;
  3. Development must secure the delivery of the northern link road between the B1022 (Colchester Road) and the B1023 (Kelvedon Road) within the geographical scope of the allocation in accordance with Policy TIP07 and the objectives of the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan;
  4. Development on this site should not be occupied until the Tiptree Medical Centre and Community Hub has been delivered in accordance with plans designed to meet the increased population in the local area;
  5. Consideration to be given to the inclusion of a mobility hub which may incorporate provision for bus layover, in the vicinity of the land allocated for health/community purposes on the Elms Farm site;
  6. Minimise potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation buffers around Co13 Eden Wood LoWS, Co6 Inworth Wood LoWS and Messing Park LoWS and seek opportunities for tree planting between the woodland parcels to create a larger, more valuable woodland habitat;
  7. Delivery of a Tiptree Country Park of approximately 27 hectares as indicated on the policies map and accessed through the development. This must include designing the country park to provide a new Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace, integrate multi-user routes, manage existing and create new habitats identified as strategic opportunities within the Essex LNRS, and space for outdoor sports/cricket pitch provision. The country park should include land for parking and a visitor centre;
  8. Demonstrate that there is capacity available in the sewerage network and at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the proposal for treatment and discharge. Where insufficient capacity is available to serve the proposal at the point of anticipated connection, development will be required to be phased, or otherwise appropriately managed, to ensure that connections do not take place until the necessary infrastructure capacity is available.
  9. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. Development must maintain planting around the site perimeter to provide a green backdrop and screen views to nearby heritage assets;
    2. Development must use materials appropriate to the rural setting and should break up large blocks of development planting and green space;
    3. Green space at the eastern end and south of site must be retained to prevent new development from intruding into views from Grade II* listed Messing Park and maintain a sense of separation to Grade II listed Pan in the Wood respectively;
    4. Locate site access away from the listed buildings to minimise traffic and visual intrusion near heritage assets;
    5. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
    6. further work of archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site reduce and inform the need for and nature of any subsequent archaeological mitigation if required.
  10. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  11. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes,
    2. Tiptree Mobility Hub,
    3. Mildene school expansion,
    4. 1 FE at Thurstable Secondary School (repurposing the Sixth Form),
    5. Tiptree Medical Centre and Community Hub

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary the masterplan shall be supported by, parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance. The masterplan should also consider opportunities to include surrounding areas of land, such as that to the South, within the wider development.

12.57Land North of Oak Road, Tiptree presents an opportunity to deliver growth in the village which aligns with the aspirations and direction of growth in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan. The allocation is situated between two allocated sites (Elms Farm to the East and Highland Nursery to the West) in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan and will help contribute to the delivery of the northern link road as detailed in criterion c which will support reducing congestion and traffic in the village. While this allocation sits outside the Tiptree Parish Area (currently in Messing Parish), and thus the Neighbourhood Plan, the option to have the parish boundaries changed so the development land is included within the Tiptree Parish is being considered.

12.58The policy details some site specific infrastructure requirements expected to be delivered. There is a desire for the northern link road to be served by a bus service, which would support access to the medical centre and community land to be created as part of development at Elms Farm. Therefore, it is considered a bus layover may be suitable as part of this development to enable buses to turn round near the medical centre, with the exact location to be determined.

12.59Delivery of a 27ha country park will provide recreation opportunities for residents in Tiptree and nearby villages. It is expected that as part of this, car parking and a visitor centre will be incorporated to serve the country park. Layout of the country park will need to be designed to SANG standards and be agreed with Natural England. Within the country park, land should also be made available for outdoor sports provision based on local demand which may include football or cricket pitches. Changing rooms to serve the outdoor sports facilities would need to be provided.

12.60For strategic sites of 500 dwellings or more, early and ongoing collaboration between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be essential to ensure that wastewater infrastructure is planned and delivered in a coordinated, timely and environmentally sustainable manner, particularly where there are constraints within the existing foul drainage network and/or wastewater recycling centre capacity.

12.61A comprehensive site-wide foul drainage strategy should be prepared and agreed at an early stage of the development process. This should identify the preferred long-term solution, including a single sustainable point of connection to the public sewerage network, and demonstrate how the necessary wastewater infrastructure will be secured and delivered alongside development.

12.62Where temporary drainage arrangements are required to facilitate early phases of development, these must be appropriately controlled, time-limited and linked to clearly defined triggers for the delivery and operation of permanent infrastructure. Development phasing should be aligned with the timely provision of wastewater infrastructure to avoid adverse impacts on network performance, receiving watercourses and the environment.

12.63Close partnership working between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be required throughout the planning, delivery and occupation of the site to ensure that growth is supported by adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity and integrated with longer-term investment programmes, thereby facilitating sustainable development and environmental protection.

Policy PP20: Land at Bonnie Blue Oak, Tiptree Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 30 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Vehicular access should be taken from the Elms Farm site to prevent further access points on Oak Road;
  3. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance the distinctiveness and condition of retained areas of grassland;
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. retain hedgerow around boundary of site contributing to screening of Grade II* listed Messing Park and Grade II listed Elm Farmhouse;
    2. building heights should be of a similar scale to surrounding development;
    3. undertake further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
    4. proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s heritage context.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes,
    2. Tiptree Mobility Hub,
    3. Mildene school expansion,
    4. 1 FE at Thurstable Green Secondary School (repurposing the Sixth Form),
    5. Tiptree Medical Centre and Community Hub.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP21: Highlands, Kelvedon Road, Tiptree Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 10 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Development proposals should seek to avoid or minimise the potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation associated with development, and the threat of disturbance and degradation associated with its long-term occupation (as identified in the LoWS Review 2026);
  3. Consider the Grade II Listed farm complex to the north in the Heritage Statement and use the recommendations to inform site layout and design;
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes,
    2. Tiptree Mobility Hub,
    3. Mildene school expansion,
    4. 1 FE at Thurstable Secondary School (repurposing the Sixth Form),
    5. Tiptree Medical Centre and Community Hub.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP22: Telephone Exchange, Tiptree Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 5 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: small-scale grassland enhancement, hedge enhancement and tree planting;
  3. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing water supply infrastructure on the site;
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes,
    2. Tiptree Mobility Hub,
    3. Mildene school expansion,
    4. 1 FE at Thurstable Secondary School (repurposing the Sixth Form),
    5. Tiptree Medical Centre and Community Hub.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP22b: Land at New Park Cottage, Maypole Road, Tiptree Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 25 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: protect and enhance retained hedgerows, trees and grassland, tree planting and creating additional scrub habitat;
  3. A new and improved, safe and suitable vehicle access should be provided to Warriors Rest through the development;
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the retention and enhancement of planting around the edges of the site to maintain screening to heritage assists and new development;
    2. use of green space within the development to break up density in keeping with the rural location;
    3. appropriate building heights, scale and massing that reflects the surrounding development; and
    4. further archaeological evaluation is recommended.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes,
    2. Tiptree Mobility Hub,
    3. Mildene school expansion,
    4. 1 FE at Thurstable Secondary School (repurposing the Sixth Form),
    5. Tiptree Medical Centre and Community Hub.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PEP7 Highland Nursery, Tiptree Comment

Land at Highlands Nursery, is safeguarded for employment uses in accordance with the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies, proposals for employment uses will be supported on land within the area identified on the policies map which accord with Policy E1 and the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Policy PEP8 Land South of Factory Hill, Tiptree Comment View map Employment

Land South of Factory Hill, Tiptree, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance retained grassland and new or enhanced hedgerows;
  2. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing water supply and sewage infrastructure on the site;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. The use of green space and planting to break up the development;
    2. The maintenance and enhancement of the existing roadside planting and boundary hedgerows;
    3. proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s heritage context.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.

Policy PEP16: Land South Tower Business Park, Tiptree Comment View map Employment

Land South of Tower Business Park, Tiptree, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan and provide the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7.

All development proposals within Tiptree Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Tiptree Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2023) where they are up to date and relevant.


West Mersea Settlement Boundary (1) Isolated Village (2)

12.64West Mersea is a coastal town located on the confluence of the Colne and Blackwater Estuaries, approximately 15km from Colchester city centre. There are bus routes serving the town to and from Colchester and serving the local secondary schools. West Mersea has numerous town centre and community uses both within the district centre and throughout the town, making it a sustainable settlement. However, it has environmental constraints: the Colne and Blackwater Estuaries are Special Protection Areas and Ramsar sites and form part of the Essex Estuaries Special Area of Conservation and the Blackwater, Crouch, Roach and Colne Estuaries Marine Conservation Zone. A balance is needed to allow an appropriate scale of development in this sustainable settlement that avoids adverse effects on the integrity of the Colne and Blackwater estuaries and protects nationally important habitats and species. In addition, the island has one road in and out which at times is cut off by high tides which is a concern in relation to the potential increase in wildfires and the impact of climate change on rising sea levels. This vulnerability is noted on the policies map. The unique characteristics of Mersea and the number of constraints has influenced the amount of growth considered appropriate for Mersea during the plan period. Therefore, no more than 300 new dwellings should be delivered on large sites (10 units or more).

12.65Also of relevance to proposals in West Mersea are policies LC4 (Islands) and PP23a (Mersea Islands Caravan Parks).

Policy PP23: Land East Dawes Lane, West Mersea Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Up to 300 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing, including the provision of almshouses, to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Provision of a higher proportion of one and two bedroomed houses, bungalows and almshouses within the scheme, unless it can be demonstrated that the particular circumstances relating to the tenure of the housing dictate otherwise or where such provision is demonstrated to not be in accordance with the latest available housing needs evidence.
  3. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance retained grassland, establish new grassland and native hedges, and new tree planting.
  4. Support will be given to delivering standing freshwater habitat within or adjacent to the site to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS.
  5. Enhanced provision of open space of at least 5 hectares must be provided within the site, and this open space must link with the open space within the approved scheme at Dawes Lane and connect through to The Glebe as indicated on the policies map.
  6. Provision of allotments to be transferred to West Mersea Town Council to manage and maintain, contiguous with development of that part of the site.
  7. Reconfiguration of West Mersea Clinic or alternative provision, to provide additional capacity to demonstrate that residents of the new development are able to access registration with a GP surgery in the local area without prejudicing the existing community.
  8. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of a woodland strip and enhanced planting to provide natural screening between heritage assets and new development (especially in the north and south-east);
    2. The use of greenspace (especially in the north) to break up development and preserve the rural character;
    3. Limit the heights of buildings in order to minimise the potential visibility from the barrow over the treeline;
    4. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary.
  9. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  10. A foul drainage strategy will be required as part of any planning application to identify a sustainable point of connection to the public foul network. No development should take place until the strategy is approved and there is adequate capacity to accommodate the new dwellings.
  11. In addition to any relevant requirements under Policy ST7, contributions will be required towards:
    1. the enhancement of the quality and value of The Glebe Sports Ground and facilities including new clubhouse/pavilion and storage and small sided 3g AGP;
    2. upgrades to the Water Recycling Centre;
    3. mobility hubs within the development, at the Glebe and/or the town centre.

All development proposals within West Mersea Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the West Mersea Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted April 2022) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

12.66Given the environmental sensitives of Mersea Island and its proximity to internationally important estuarine habitats, development should maximise opportunities for SuDS that attenuate surface water run-off and provide wider environmental benefits. In accordance with Policy EN8a, SuDS should be designed to manage flood risk whilst also seeking, where feasible, to improve water quality and reduce nutrient discharges to receiving waters.

12.67The allocation provides an opportunity to deliver a significant area of multifunctional green infrastructure alongside new housing. The enhanced open space requirement will help maintain the transition between the built form of West Mersea and the surrounding countryside, provide opportunities for recreation, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable drainage, and strengthen connections between existing and new development. The integration of the site with adjoining open spaces, including links to The Glebe and the approved Dawes Lane development, will help create a coherent green infrastructure network across this part of West Mersea.

Policy PP23a: Mersea Island Caravan Parks Comment View map Caravan Parks

Development proposals at caravan parks, including change of use, intensification of an existing use, or change in activities on site will only be supported where they meet all the following criteria:

  1. Protects the integrity of habitats sites and minimises disturbance to designated breeding and wintering species. Proposals must be supported by information to enable a Habitats Regulations Assessment, including appropriate assessment where required, and demonstrate how any avoidance or mitigation measures identified in the appropriate assessment will be secured and delivered.
  2. Any outdoor lighting proposed must follow dark sky lighting principles to ensure that lighting avoids light pollution, avoids any further reduction in tranquillity and protects landscape character and wildlife. Any lighting proposed should be justified, directed to where it is needed to avoid spill and comply with relevant standards and best practice from the Institute of Lighting Professionals and UK Dark Skies Partnership.
  3. Anglian Water Services confirm that there is adequate wastewater treatment and sewage infrastructure capacity to serve the caravan park and avoid adverse impacts on water quality.
  4. Are supported with a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment and Flood Management and Flood Evacuation Plan. Proposals for caravan extensions in flood zone 3, including any increase to the future extent of this zone due to climate change, will only be supported where they satisfy the requirements of the Exception Test, demonstrate safe access and evacuation and do not increase risk elsewhere. Proposals that fail to meet these requirements will not be supported.
  5. Minimise impact on the amenity of residents or businesses living or operating near the site. The cumulative effects of proposals will be assessed collectively, not individually.
  6. Permanent occupancy will not be permitted, and compliance monitoring will continue to be undertaken. The cumulative impact of proposals for additional caravans or lodges will be assessed on an individual site basis and collectively, taking into account all sites on the island. Conversion of touring sites for static caravans and lodges will not be supported.
  7. Incorporates proportionate measures to support sustainable and active travel for leisure having regard to the site’s location and function as visitor accommodation. Such measures should include the provision of mobility hubs.

Permission will not be granted for visitor accommodation at the caravan parks to be used as permanent residences. Visitor accommodation will be limited by condition or legal agreement to holiday use only and/or certain periods of the year in order to prevent permanent residences.

Justification

12.68Policy PP23a provides criteria that will be used to assess the suitability of any new or extensions to existing or intensification of caravan parks on Mersea Island, addressing landscape, environmental and infrastructure constraints. It should be read alongside other policies including policies on coastal areas, landscape, biodiversity and tourism. Policy LC3 includes criteria for development within the coastal protection belt and states that proposals for new moorings for permanent residential houseboats will not be permitted because of their landscape and environmental impact on designated habitats sites. Houseboat proposals for new moorings on historical vacant sites or houseboats of historical maritime significance, may be acceptable.

12.69There are six caravan sites on Mersea Island, three of which are for static vans or lodges, the other three sites have some touring and camping pitches for approximately 600 units. There are approximately 1988 static sites. There are also approximately 280 B&Bs, second homes and registered self-catering units on the Island. Together with some 600 Beach Huts on the south shoreline of Mersea Beach. The Town Council is concerned that any removal of touring sites to replace with static vans and lodges would encourage touring camper vans/cars to illegally patch overnight in protected areas, adversely effecting Mersea Island’s protected coastal sites.

12.70Mersea Island lies within National Character Area 81: Greater Thames Estuary, recognised for its distinctive coastal landscape, estuarine ecology and environmental sensitivity. The Colchester Landscape Character Assessment notes that two of the key characteristics and sensitivities and value of the Mersea Island Coastal Farmland landscape character area are: ‘a rural landscape albeit the sense of tranquillity is diminished in the vicinity of settlement and the holiday caravan parks’; and ‘a strong sense of remoteness and wildness along the coastal edges, with wide open views across marshes and mudflats towards the surrounding estuaries and channels and the sound of wind and birds’. Guidance for Development Management includes reducing lighting impacts and avoiding any further reduction in tranquillity around West Mersea and the holiday caravan parks.

12.71To demonstrate compliance with criteria (c), confirmation that there is adequate wastewater treatment and sewage infrastructure capacity to serve the caravan park and avoid adverse impacts on water quality must be sought from Anglian Water in advance of submission of the planning application and within the previous 12 months. Ideally evidence should be set out in a foul drainage assessment for the site.

12.72Sites used for holiday or short-let caravans and camping, subject to a specific warning and evacuation plan, are deemed ‘more vulnerable’ in Annex 3 of the NPPF. The PPG states that development is compatible in flood zone 3 provided that the Exception Test is passed.

12.73The introduction of further lighting has the potential to increase light pollution, reduce dark skies, further reduce tranquillity and adversely affect landscape character and wildlife. The policy criteria for lighting will ensure that the impacts of any further lighting are understood and that lighting schemes are designed to respect the tranquillity of the area. The policy requires compliance with dark sky lighting principles. These principles were developed by DarkSky International. The principles for outdoor lighting are: useful, use light only if it is needed; targeted, direct light so it falls only where it is needed; low level, light should be no brighter than necessary; controlled, use light only when it is needed using controls such as timers or motion detectors; and warm-coloured lights where possible to limit the amount of shorter wavelength (blue-violet) light.

12.74Whilst it is accepted that most visitors to the caravan parks will arrive by car, there is opportunity for local trips to be made by other modes. Accordingly, mobility hubs should be planned into all proposals.


Wivenhoe View map Settlement Boundary

12.75Wivenhoe benefits from good infrastructure provision including a mainline train station, a GP surgery, two primary schools, numerous shops and restaurants and abundant open space provision. There are also frequent bus services between Wivenhoe and Colchester and to Brightlingsea, a cycle path between Wivenhoe and the University of Essex and the popular Wivenhoe Trail along the river to Colchester. However, there are a number of constraints which has influenced the amount of growth considered appropriate for Wivenhoe. Wivenhoe is bordered by the River Colne to the west and south. In addition to the physical boundary that the river presents, land falls within flood risk zone 3. There are a number of environmental designations surrounding Wivenhoe. The Upper Colne Marshes Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) lies to the west and south of Wivenhoe. The Colne Estuary Special Protection Area (SPA), Ramsar Site and SSSI and Essex Estuaries Special Area of Conservation (SAC) lie to the south-east of Wivenhoe. The Colne Local Nature Reserve and Local Wildlife Site runs adjacent to the built-up western boundary. The Coastal Protection Belt surrounds the west and south of Wivenhoe. Wivenhoe Gravel Pit SSSI lies to the north-east of Wivenhoe. A balance needs to be struck to allow appropriate growth in this sustainable settlement which accords with the spatial strategy and protection of sensitive environmental sites.

Policy PP24: Land Northwest of the Fire Station, Wivenhoe Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies, development will be supported on land within the area identified on the policies map which provides:

  1. Approximately 200 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development. The total number of dwellings will be spread between this site and the area currently set aside for a care home as part of the neighbourhood plan allocation;
  2. Provide active travel connections between the adjoining Neighbourhood Plan Allocation and Colchester Road;
  3. Provide safe recreational access to the countryside via active travel modes, particularly to the Wivenhoe Trail and the adjacent allotments;
  4. A Heritage Statement to inform the layout of the site and scale of development, considering the setting of Grade II Listed Building on Colchester Road;
  5. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance hedgerow condition and retain and create grassland habitats, particularly lowland dry acid grassland;
  6. Opportunities for undergrounding of pylons should be explored;
  7. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site;
  8. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  9. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) routes, other public rights of way where appropriate,
    2. Wivenhoe Mobility Hub;
    3. Mede Way Community Hub, or alternative community building in North Wivenhoe and;
    4. Broad Lane Sports Ground including 1 full size 3G artificial pitch

All development Proposals within Wivenhoe Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Wivenhoe Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted May 2019) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Justification

12.76It is recognised that the presence of valued environmentally sensitive sites in Wivenhoe, including proximity to SSSI habitats, constrains growth opportunities in Wivenhoe. The plan acknowledges this, including information in the town’s emerging Nature Plan, in allocating Land Northwest of the Fire Station recognising that through assessment that the site has limited natural habitat onsite, so is unlikely to harm biodiversity.

12.77Whilst a small part of the allocation is within the coalescence break in the existing Neighbourhood Plan, the policy can enable for development to take place to fit in with the local character and landscape alongside delivering additional habitat and improvements for biodiversity. Safeguards in relation to the requirement for wintering bird surveys will also development can be planned to minimise any impacts on birdlife where identified.

12.78The allocation is also in a sustainable location adjacent to one of the neighbourhood plan allocations. PP24 can complement the existing neighbourhood plan allocation, including through delivery of some homes allocated on land set aside for a care home which is no longer needed owing to the proposal for a care home on an alternative site in Wivenhoe. It will also support provision of community uses in the north of Wivenhoe by delivering contributions to a community building in the area and also supporting access to the allotments being delivered as part of the existing allocation, as well as access to wider countryside.


Medium Settlements

12.79Medium settlements play an important role in accommodating sustainable growth across the district, reflecting their level of services, facilities and connectivity. In line with the spatial strategy, these settlements will accommodate development at a scale appropriate to their opportunities and constraints, size, function and accessibility, helping to support and sustain local services and communities. In some medium settlements the scale of growth reflects opportunities linked to their location, accessibility and the role they can play in delivering growth aligned with the spatial strategy.

12.80Growth in medium settlements will be directed to appropriate and deliverable sites within or well-related to the existing settlement, taking account of environmental and infrastructure constraints. Development should make efficient use of land, respond positively to the character and form of the settlement, and be supported by necessary infrastructure, either through existing capacity or appropriate mitigation.

12.81This approach ensures that medium settlements contribute to meeting development needs in a sustainable way, while managing cumulative impacts and maintaining their distinctive character and role within the settlement hierarchy.

Abberton and Langenhoe View map Settlement Boundary

12.82Abberton and Langenhoe were originally two separate settlements but have now effectively merged into one village which share services and facilities. The facilities in the village include a primary school, community hall, community shop and public open space. The village benefits from good road connections to Colchester being positioned along the B1025 which has bus stops situated along it which are served by the Mersea bus.

Policy PP25: View Park, Abberton and Langenhoe Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 50 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance the condition of any higher distinctiveness grassland and enhance the condition of hedgerows.
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. development should avoid dense, uniform layouts in order to preserve the dispersed village-edge character near Tudhoe House, The Grange and Gun House, block style development should be avoided;
    2. the tree lines to the north and east of the site should be preserved to maintain visual screening for nearby listed buildings;
    3. site access should be located to the west, towards the main road, to reduce traffic and visual intrusion near heritage assets.
  4. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing water supply infrastructure.
  5. Contributions will be sought towards expanding and improving community, sport and leisure provision in the village to meet the needs of the expanded population.

12.83Given the current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the Fingringhoe Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network, the applicant will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at an early stage and demonstrate, prior to the submission of a planning application, that sufficient capacity is available to accommodate the proposed development, or that appropriate infrastructure upgrades have been agreed to support it, which may include sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks to minimise impacts on existing communities and the environment. Where capacity is not available within the required timescales, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of necessary wastewater infrastructure improvements.


Boxted View map Settlement Boundary

12.84Development in Boxted is currently concentrated within three distinct settlement areas: Boxted Cross, Workhouse Hill and an area to the south of the parish to the west of Straight Road. Development in Boxted Cross has grown in a linear manner around Straight Road/Carters Hill, Dedham Road/Cage Lane crossroads extending north eastwards as far as Cooks Lane. Boxted Cross is considered to be a sustainable location for growth as it is reasonably well served by a number of services and facilities.

Policy PP26: Land North of Boxted Straight Road, Boxted Cross Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 150 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: buffering woodland Priority Habitat to the north of the site and woodland to the west. Soil conditions may favour the creation of higher distinctiveness grasslands;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. preserving long range views of the church tower using green space and planting, especially from Wainwright House;
    2. an area of green space in the north of the site should be used to set buildings back from the edge of the ridge, avoiding development becoming prominent in views across the valley from the north;
    3. preserving the tree lines to the north and west of the site to maintain visual screening for nearby listed buildings, an extension of treeline to north west of the site will help to screen from Boxted Conservation area;
    4. break up dense blocks of development to preserve the rural character of the area, especially to the west and north of the site, development should avoid dense, uniform layouts;
    5. site access located to the east, associated with the modern development that has taken place in that direction;
  4. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds;
  5. Development shall minimise light pollution through a comprehensive lighting strategy informed by the Dedham Vale National Landscape Lighting Design Guide. Lighting shall protect dark skies, tranquillity, residential amenity and ecological networks.

All development proposals within Boxted Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Boxted Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted December 2016) where they are up to date and relevant.

12.85Development within the Langham Wastewater Recycling Centre (WRC) catchment will need to take account of existing capacity constraints within both the wastewater treatment works and the associated sewerage network. The Water Cycle Study identifies that the WRC is currently operating at its permitted discharge limit and that there are existing sewer network capacity issues within the catchment, including infiltration of surface water and groundwater into the sewer system. Further environmental assessment and infrastructure improvements will be required to accommodate planned growth.

12.86Developers will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at the earliest opportunity and, prior to the submission of a planning application, demonstrate that sufficient capacity is available within both the Langham WRC and the associated sewer network to accommodate the proposed development, or that an agreed strategy is in place to deliver any necessary upgrades. Development proposals should be accompanied by evidence of consultation with Anglian Water Services and confirmation of the proposed point of connection and servicing strategy.

12.87Given the identified infrastructure constraints, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of sewerage network improvements and any future wastewater treatment capacity enhancements. In particular, the timing of housing delivery should have regard to the recommendations of the Water Cycle Study and the availability of infrastructure capacity, ensuring that growth does not result in adverse impacts on existing communities, the sewerage system or the water environment.


Chappel and Wakes Colne View map Settlement Boundary

12.88Chappel and Wakes Colne are separate settlements but are located adjacent to one another and share services and facilities. Chappel has one core settlement area with three remote/dispersed small clusters of housing at Rose Green, Swan Street and Wakes Street. The core focus of Chappel is centred around the primary school. The settlement is defined to the east by the railway line, which is the Sudbury to Marks Tey branch line. Wakes Colne parish includes the main settlement area with smaller dispersed clusters of housing around Inworth Lane and at Middle Green. The core focus of Wakes Colne is around the railway, defined to the east by the railway line. The railway station is also home to Chappel and Wakes Colne Railway Museum which hosts many events and houses a number of refurbished steam trains.

Policy PP27: Swan Grove, Chappel Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 35 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance hedgerow condition, buffer Chappel Ponds and Millennium Green LoWS, and maintain and strengthen ecological connectivity;
  3. Safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing sewage infrastructure on the site;
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. maintain the visual separation between the village and Grade II listed Hill House and Martyns Croft;
    2. proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s heritage context.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. a new, or improvements to the existing village hall including but not limited to potential for additional parking;
    2. a secure cycle hub at Chappel and Wakes Colne station, Wakes Colne Mobility Hub;
    3. public transport improvements and an active travel route between station/mobility hub and Wakes Hall Business Park employment site.

Policy PP28: Land West of Station Road, Wakes Colne Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 200 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Provision of a link road between Station Road and the A1124 with junction layout and points of vehicle access to be agreed with the Highway Authority. Full exploration of vehicle access being stopped along Station Road to through traffic (cul de sac) with appropriate treatment of the road for pedestrian cycle priority. The design of these highway features must be informed by public consultation.
  3. Provision of safe crossings across the A1124 to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  4. Secure active travel links and connections from the development to Wakes Hall Business Centre and railway station; and across the A1124, to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  5. 'Enhanced Open Space' substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space. This should include approximately 8 hectares within the site to provide recreation, BNG and community uses, informed by the Parish Councils, and could incorporate outdoor gym, children’s play area and new changing facilities at the cricket club;
  6. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: buffer and extend the ancient woodland in Acorn Wood LoWS and strengthen north to south connectivity along the key ecological corridor. The site is on the north valley slope of the Colne Valley with patches of superficial sand and gravel deposits, which might make parts of it particularly suitable for grassland creation; Support will be given to delivering standing freshwater, woodland or grassland habitat to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS.
  7. Include measures to ensure external lighting is sensitively designed so it will not adversely impact on dark skies.
  8. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the maintenance and enhancement of the treeline and planting along the southern site boundary;
    2. the use of green space to create a buffer to the conservation area and Acorn Wood;
    3. the use of green space and planting to break up new development and help preserve the rural character of the area;
    4. limits on the heights of buildings, especially in the north.
    5. the use of view corridors through the site to maintain visual links between Wakes Colne House, Crows Hall and Acorn Wood.
    6. for construction traffic to avoid passing listed buildings along the A1124.
    7. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary.
  9. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.
  10. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. a new, or improvements to the existing, village hall including but not limited to potential for additional parking;
    2. a secure cycle hub at Chappel and Wakes Colne station, and Wakes Colne Mobility Hub.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers and consultees including Historic England, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.89Development on land West of Station Road, Wakes Colne provides an opportunity to deliver not only new homes, but also safe pedestrian and cycle routes linking the communities of Wakes Colne and Chappel with the station and other facilities. The provision of a link road between Station Road and the A1124 will enable the exploration of vehicle access being stopped along Station Road to through traffic and improve and enhance the route for pedestrian and cycle priority providing safe access to the station. The design of these highway features must be informed by public consultation and agreed with the Highway Authority.

12.90Development on land West of Station Road also provides the opportunity for enhanced community facilities and enhanced provision of open space that will benefit both existing and future communities.

Policy PEP12: Land at Wakes Hall Business Centre Comment View map Employment

Land Wakes Hall Business Centre, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Safe active travel routes and access to ensure connectivity between the site and existing routes and to maximise opportunities for enhanced active and sustainable travel connectivity to the surrounding area including Chappel and Wakes Colne Station.
  2. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the tree and hedge lines that form parts of the boundaries of the site should be preserved and enhanced to maintain visual screening for nearby heritage assets, especially important in the east of the site;
    2. site access should be located to the south, towards the main road (A1124 Tyburn Hill), to reduce traffic and visual intrusion near heritage assets, also minimise gaps in the surrounding planting.
  3. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. a secure cycle hub at Chappel and Wakes Colne station, Wakes Colne Mobility Hub;
    2. public transport improvements and an active travel route between station/mobility hub and Wakes Hall Business Park employment site.

Copford View map Settlement Boundary

12.91The Parish of Copford with Easthorpe comprises three distinct villages: Copford, Easthorpe, and Copford Green, the latter being a designated conservation area and one of Colchester’s small settlements. Development in Copford has grown in a linear manner along London Road, eastwards towards Stanway and westwards towards Marks Tey. Copford Church of England Primary School is located on Church Road between Copford and Copford Green. There is open space, a village hall, gift shop and pub within the parish and a number of local services including pubs, restaurants and a post office located along London Road in Stanway, just outside of the Copford parish boundary and in Marks Tey, which is approximately 1km from the centre of Copford.

Policy PP29a: Land East of School Road, Copford Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. A predominantly residential development including community infrastructure, strategic open space and approximately 300 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. An active travel plan to be agreed with the Council which ensures site wide active travel connectivity including links beyond the site.
  3. Provision of a new local centre to serve the new and existing local community. This may include provision of retail, commercial and community facilities at an appropriate scale, relevant to the role and function of a local centre and the communities it is intended to serve, to be informed by the Parish Council.
  4. 'Enhanced Open Space' as shown on the policies map substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space. This should include at least one area of strategic open space and multiple areas of less formal and more incidental ‘doorstop’ open space.
  5. Strategic open space is to provide a naturally landscaped community space that is well connected to the wider Public Rights of Way network. This should also ensure it provides an appropriate buffer required to protect the LoWs and as required in respect of the pumping station. Explore opportunities to integrate this space with Pits Wood LoWS (which consists of Ancient Wood Irreplaceable Habitat and Priority Habitat) through the creation of grassland, scrub, freshwater and woodland habitats that would buffer the LoWS. The size of the buffer will be informed by ecological assessment to protect the site from recreational pressure.
  6. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space and planting to break up and screen development particularly along the south-western boundaries;
    2. retention of an appropriate landscape buffer along Hall Road;
    3. careful treatment of the southern and south-western edge to retain a sense of rural separation between Copford and Copford Green; and
    4. limits on the heights of buildings to ensure new development is in keeping with the surrounding buildings;.
  7. Provision of a buffer around the sewer pumping station and safeguard suitable access for the maintenance of existing water supply and sewage infrastructure on the site.
  8. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  9. The site is within a Waste Consultation Area (WCA). Applications made within WCAs are required to include a Waste Infrastructure Impact Assessment (WIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of WIIA.
  10. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Provision for a new, or contributions to enhancements to the existing, village hall including additional parking.
    2. Copford Cricket Club pavilion upgrades
    3. Marks Tey Mobility Hub

All development Proposals within Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.92 Development on Land East of School Road, Copford provides an opportunity to deliver not only new homes but also enhanced community facilities and enhanced provision of open space that will benefit both existing and future communities. The development should be masterplanned to ensure the open space provides a naturally landscaped space that is well connected to the wider Public Rights of Way network creating a green corridor.

12.93The strategic open space should provide an appropriate buffer required to protect the Pits Wood Local Wildlife Site (LoWS) and an appropriate buffer to the pumping station. The size and location of the buffer should be determined through additional evidence including ecological assessment to protect the LoWS from recreational pressure. Opportunities should also be explored to integrate the strategic open space with Pits Wood LoWS through the creation of grassland, scrub, freshwater and woodland habitats that would buffer the LoWS.

Policy PP29b: Land South of Copford Village Hall, Copford Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 50 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: new/ enhanced hedges and retained and enhanced grassland.
  3. Development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space and planting to break up and screen development;
    2. limits on the heights of buildings to ensure new development is in keeping with the surrounding buildings;
    3. proposals must demonstrate how the design layout, scale, massing and landscaping responds positively to the site’s heritage context.
  4. The site is within a Waste Consultation Area (WCA). Applications made within WCAs are required to include a Waste Infrastructure Impact Assessment (WIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of WIIA.
  5. Any site specific infrastructure requirements from the IDP including provision for appropriate service and facilities / uses to create a local centre to serve the communities across the site as informed by the masterplanning;
  6. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  7. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Provision for a new, or contributions to enhancements to the existing, village hall including additional parking.
    2. Copford Cricket Club pavilion upgrades
    3. Marks Tey Mobility Hub

All development Proposals within Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP29c: Land East of Queensberry Avenue, Copford Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 70 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Access via Queensberry Avenue and/or London Road;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space and planting to break up and soften new development;
    2. the retention and reinforcement of existing boundary planting to maintain a visual separation between the development and London Road;
    3. building heights and massing that reflect the surrounding edge to protect views;
    4. retain and enhance the public footpath, Willow Walk;
    5. where practicable incorporate a designed green corridor along the western part of the southern boundary to help avoid impacts on surviving remains associated with Copford Windmill; and
    6. further archaeological work including desk-based assessment, geographical survey and evaluation.
  4. Permanent diversion and/or upgrade to the existing Public Right of Way which runs along the western boundary edge of the site;
  5. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.
  6. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Provision for a new or contributions to enhancements to the existing village hall including additional parking.
    2. Copford Cricket Club pavilion upgrades
    3. Marks Tey Mobility Hub

All development Proposals within Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Copford with Easthorpe Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2023) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.


Dedham and Dedham Heath Settlement Boundary (1) Settlement Boundary (2)

12.94Most of the Dedham parish area falls within the Dedham Vale National Landscape (previously known as AONB). The largest settlement within the parish is the main historic village of Dedham to the north. A smaller area of predominantly housing called Dedham Heath lies to the south and two smaller clusters of properties lie to the west and east of Dedham Heath known as Lamb Corner and Bargate Lane respectively. Dedham has a range of services and facilities, including its own primary school. Dedham Heath is located approx. 1km away and is on a bus route to Dedham.

12.95Dedham is a popular tourist destination and at certain times the existing roads and car parks struggle to cope with the additional traffic. The Parish Council have indicated a strong need for additional car parking to support tackling this issue.  Proposals for additional parking in Dedham will be supported where they comply with the relevant policies in the Local Plan.

Policy PP30: Land South of Long Road, Dedham Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 15 new dwellings, including affordable in accordance with policy H2 Affordable Housing, of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: retain and enhance the condition of grassland.
  3. The design of access arrangements, visibility splays, signage, lighting, footways and associated infrastructure shall minimise urbanising impacts and be sympathetic to the rural character of Long Road West.
  4. Development proposals shall minimise light pollution and protect the dark skies and tranquillity of the Dedham Vale National Landscape through sensitive lighting design and appropriate mitigation measures.
  5. Contributions towards enhancing community facilities informed by the Parish Council

12.96Given the current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the Dedham Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network, the applicant will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at an early stage and demonstrate, prior to the submission of a planning application, that sufficient capacity is available to accommodate the proposed development, or that appropriate infrastructure upgrades have been agreed to support it, which may include sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks to minimise impacts on existing communities and the environment. Where capacity is not available within the required timescales, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of necessary wastewater infrastructure improvements.


Eight Ash Green View map Settlement Boundary

12.97Eight Ash Green comprises three main areas which have a range of services and facilities: Eight Ash Green/Fordham Heath, Eight Ash Green/Choats Corner and Seven Star Green. Eight Ash Green is interspersed with open farmland and contains some small businesses premises. There are a number of local services including hairdressers, convenience store, petrol station, village hall, open spaces and primary school. Tollgate and Stane Park are located approximately 1.5km to the south-east and provide a good range of services and facilities.

12.98The two residential allocations provide an opportunity to deliver a coordinated and sustainable extension to the village. Together the sites will help meet identified housing needs whilst supporting local services, facilities and infrastructure. Land North of Halstead Road and West of Fiddlers Wood is located adjacent to and builds upon the pattern of growth established through the Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan. This enables new development to integrate with the existing community and create a logical continuation of the village.

12.99The two allocations are positioned on opposite sides of the A1124 (Halstead Road). This road currently acts as a barrier to movement throughout the village and the delivery of both sites presents an opportunity to improve connectivity and encourage more sustainable travel choices. Development proposals will therefore be expected to contribute towards measures that improve access between existing and new neighbourhoods, local facilities and public transport services.

12.100 In particular, the provision of a safe crossing point across the A1124, agreed with the Highway Authority, will help connect residents to the primary school, village hall, local shops, open spaces, bus services and other community facilities. In combination with improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure, these measures will support safer movement throughout the village, reduce reliance on private vehicles and improve access to facilities for existing and future residents.

12.101Contributions towards the Eight Ash Green Mobility Hub, improvements to the Halstead Road junction, and the delivery of a walking and cycling route between Eight Ash Green and Stanway will form part of a wider package of transport improvements. Collectively these measures will improve local accessibility, strengthen connections to employment, education and services, and provide improved links to the Rapid Transit System and wider sustainable transport network.

12.102The Council will continue to work with the Highway Authority, the Parish Council, landowners and developers to secure a coordinated approach to delivering the necessary infrastructure and community benefits associated with these allocations.

Policy PP32: Land North of Halstead Road and West of Fiddlers Wood Eight Ash Green Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 250 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitats: woodland, scrub and grassland as buffers to the adjacent ancient woodland (this supports the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS).
  3. The adjacent Fiddlers Wood Co43 LoWS (ancient woodland) must be safeguarded, with a buffer and protected from recreational pressure associated with new housing.
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space to create a buffer to Fiddlers Wood and in the northwest to protect views from the conservation area;
    2. the use of green space and planting to break up large blocks of development and help retain the rural character of the area;
    3. the use of planting to provide additional screening to Mantills Farmhouse;
    4. limits on the heights of buildings;
    5. access to the site to be located away from Foxes Lane;
    6. the consideration of the historical field alignments in development plans and layout; and
    7. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary.
  5. Provision of a buffer around the sewer pumping station.
  6. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.
  7. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  8. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Eight Ash Green Mobility Hub;
    2. Improvements to Halstead Road Junction;
    3. Walking and cycling route from Eight Ash Green to Stanway (connecting to new RTS);
    4. Other community facilities informed by the Parish Council.

All development proposals within Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan (December 2019) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP32a Land South of Halstead Road, Eight Ash Green Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 250 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Provision of safe crossing across the A1124 to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  3. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (High Level Heritage Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site, including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space and planting, particularly along the eastern, southern and western boundaries, to break up and soften development;
    2. the retention and reinforcement of existing hedgerows and boundary planting, where possible, to maintain visual separation from Malting House, Mantills Farmhouse and Foxes Lane;
    3. The careful treatment of Halstead Road frontage so that the milestone is retained in situ, should be protected during construction and remain visible;
    4. limits on the height, scale and massing of buildings to ensure development reflects surrounding development and does not become visually dominant in available views;
    5. the retention in situ, protection and enhancement of the historic milestone on Halstead Road, including ensuring it remains visible and legible within the street scene;
    6. the retention and enhancement of the public footpath along the western boundary as part of a landscape-led design response; and
    7. prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological assessment and evaluation, including review of previous geophysical survey results, to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Eight Ash Green Mobility Hub;
    2. Improvements to Halstead Road Junction;
    3. Walking and cycling route from Eight Ash Green to Stanway (connecting to new RTS);
    4. Other community facilities informed by the Parish Council.

All development proposals within Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan (December 2019) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PEP9: Bullbanks Farm, Eight Ash Green Comment View map Employment

Land at Bullbanks Farm, Eight Ash Green, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1 and proposals for employment uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected, in accordance with Policy EN6, to have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified further work of archaeological evaluation and recording to investigate the nature, extent and significance of any remains that are present could reduce any adverse impacts upon them.

All development proposals within Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Eight Ash Green Neighbourhood Plan (December 2019) where they are up to date and relevant.


Fordham View map Settlement Boundary

12.103Fordham is a linear settlement with a core concentration of development which has evolved over time, including a number of small estate type developments. A primary school is situated at the southern end of the village just beyond the settlement boundary. The village hall is located within the core of the concentrated area of development and hosts a shop and post office at limited times during the week. Also within the village is a playing field and a community orchard maintained by the local community. A small cluster of dwellings to the north along Plummers Road is separated by the Grade II listed Moat Hall which is situated on a significant mature landscaped garden which adjoins an established community woodland managed by the Woodland Trust.

Policy PP33: Land East of Plummers, Fordham Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 25 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. retaining the roadside ribbon-style character of settlement in the area;
    2. the existing trees and hedges in the north and south of the site should be retained;
    3. preservation of green space in the south-western corner of the site to help preserve the setting of the farm buildings to the south;
  3. Support will be given to delivering woodland habitat within or adjacent to the site to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS;
  4. The point of vehicular access is to be through the existing site off Plummers Road (reserved as part of planning application), to be agreed with the Highway Authority and it will need to be demonstrated that the proposal would not be detrimental to highway capacity and safety.

Great Horkesley View map Settlement Boundary

12.104Great Horkesley is essentially linear in shape and has developed over time along the old Roman road that radiates away from north Colchester (now the A134). More recently development has spread westwards along a number of roads off the main road. Land to the east of the main road has remained relatively free of development and is more open in character. Great Horkesley is fragmented with the main core of the settlement to the south and two smaller fragments to the north along the A134. The southern edge of the main part of the village is approximately 0.6km from the Colchester urban edge and is located north of the A12. There are a range of services and facilities within the village.

Policy PP34: Land North of Coach Road, Great Horkesley Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. A predominantly residential development including community infrastructure, strategic open space and approximately 800 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Safe and suitable access to required highway design standards to be agreed with the Highway Authority. All vehicular access to be off Coach Road only, with the exception of the small area adjoining the Causeway, which will need to be served by a suitable access as well as make provision for a safe pedestrian / cycle route connecting the Causeway with the rest of the development.
  3. An active travel plan to be agreed with the Council which ensures site wide active travel connectivity including links beyond the site, connectivity within and throughout the site to existing footways and any public rights of way, particularly to the South of Coach Road, a pedestrian / cycle link to the existing village hall and connection off Coach Road to the south with the Causeway to the east of the site. A safe walking and cycling route should also be provided to the Chesterwell development where there are a large range of services and facilities.
  4. Provision for a local centre which may include provision of retail, commercial and community facilities at an appropriate scale, relevant to the role and function of a local centre and the communities it is intended to serve.
  5. Provision for primary education and Early Years & Childcare which may be through expansion of existing facilities or on site provision. The allocation is to include 2.2ha of land for this use to ensure all options remain open
  6. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space and woodland planting to retain some of the rural character of the area (especially in the north);
    2. retaining and enhancing the existing planting on boundaries of the site in order to maintain screening of the nearby listed buildings;
    3. retaining and enhancing the woodland area in the north-east of the site;
    4. consideration in the design of any development within the site to limit the heights of buildings;
    5. using the historical field pattern to inform development plans and the site layout and;
    6. further work of a geophysical survey and archaeological evaluation and recording in the north-western part of the site is also recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development.
  7. 'Enhanced Open Space' as shown on the policies map substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space, which could form part of the SANG provision. This should include at least one area of strategic open space and multiple areas of less formal and more incidental ‘doorstop’ open space.
  8. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  9. Support will be given to delivering standing freshwater, grassland or woodland habitat to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS.
  10. Demonstrate that there is capacity available in the sewerage network and at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the proposal for treatment and discharge. Where insufficient capacity is available to serve the proposal at the point of anticipated connection, development will be required to be phased, or otherwise appropriately managed, to ensure that connections do not take place until the necessary infrastructure capacity is available.
  11. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. extending the village hall or other local community facilities to be informed by the Parish Council.
    2. Mobility Hubs

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.105Land north of Coach Road will play an important role in meeting the district’s housing needs whilst supporting the long-term sustainability of Great Horkesley. The scale of development provides a significant opportunity to deliver not only new homes, but also new infrastructure, services, open spaces and environmental enhancements that benefit both existing and future communities.

12.106The allocation comprises land in multiple ownerships and therefore requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach to planning and delivery. Development coming forward on a piecemeal basis would risk compromising connectivity, placemaking objectives, infrastructure provision and the efficient use of land. A masterplan-led approach will provide a shared framework for all landowners and developers, ensuring that the site is planned and delivered as a cohesive extension to the village rather than as a series of separate developments.

12.107The masterplanning process will be critical in establishing a clear vision for the site and ensuring that development is founded on strong placemaking principles. This should include the creation of a distinctive and well-connected neighbourhood, integrated with the existing settlement through attractive walking, cycling and public transport connections, high-quality public spaces, green infrastructure and community facilities. The comprehensive planning of the allocation will help maximise opportunities to improve movement throughout the village, strengthen connections between existing and new communities and secure wider social, environmental and economic benefits.

12.108A coordinated approach also provides the best opportunity to address strategic infrastructure requirements efficiently and effectively. In particular, it will enable drainage and wastewater matters, transport infrastructure, education provision, open space and environmental mitigation to be considered across the allocation as a whole, ensuring that solutions are deliverable, appropriately phased and aligned with development proposals. By planning infrastructure at the site-wide level, the allocation can achieve better outcomes for residents, infrastructure providers and the wider community.

12.109The Council will work proactively with landowners, developers, infrastructure providers, statutory consultees and the Parish Council and local community throughout the masterplanning process to ensure that the allocation delivers a high-quality and sustainable development which responds positively to its setting and contributes to the long-term prosperity and character of Great Horkesley.

12.110There are current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the West Bergholt Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network. For strategic sites of 500 dwellings or more, early and ongoing collaboration between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be essential to ensure that wastewater infrastructure is planned and delivered in a coordinated, timely and environmentally sustainable manner, particularly where there are constraints within the existing foul drainage network and/or wastewater recycling centre capacity.

12.111A comprehensive site-wide foul drainage strategy should be prepared and agreed at an early stage of the development process. This should identify the preferred long-term solution, including a single sustainable point of connection to the public sewerage network, and demonstrate how the necessary wastewater infrastructure will be secured and delivered alongside development.

12.112Where temporary drainage arrangements are required to facilitate early phases of development, these must be appropriately controlled, time-limited and linked to clearly defined triggers for the delivery and operation of permanent infrastructure. Development phasing should be aligned with the timely provision of wastewater infrastructure to avoid adverse impacts on network performance, receiving watercourses and the environment.

12.113Close partnership working between developers, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be required throughout the planning, delivery and occupation of the site to ensure that growth is supported by adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity and integrated with longer-term investment programmes, thereby facilitating sustainable development and environmental protection.

Policy PP35: The Old School, Great Horkesley Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 13 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Turleys 2021 Impact Assessment) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. careful consideration of the development proposals to ensure the connection to Church of England School is maintained and setting enhanced;
    2. access through the site needs to be carefully considered from a settings perspective;
  3. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. extending the village hall or other local community facilities to be informed by the Parish Council.

12.114 Given the current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the West Bergholt Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network, the applicant will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at an early stage and demonstrate, prior to the submission of a planning application, that sufficient capacity is available to accommodate the proposed development, or that appropriate infrastructure upgrades have been agreed to support it, which may include sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks to minimise impacts on existing communities and the environment. Where capacity is not available within the required timescales, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of necessary wastewater infrastructure improvements.


Great Tey View map Settlement Boundary

12.115 Great Tey is situated north of the Roman River and is surrounded by largely flat arable land. The parish of Great Tey is a small rural community that contains a few local amenities including a village pub, a school, and a Norman church. The community originally developed at the southern end, as evidenced by the Conservation Area, with a newer small estate to the north and ribbon development along the main road through the village between Little Tey and Chappel.

Policy PP36: Land at Earls Colne Road, Great Tey Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 150 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Safe and suitable site access including junction visibility at Earls Colne Road / Chappel Road to required highway design standards and point of vehicle access off Earls Colne Road to be agreed with the Highway Authority and demonstration that proposal would not be detrimental to highway capacity or safety;
  3. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, the creation of chalky bounder clay grassland may be suitable if soil nutrient status can be reduced;
  4. Support will be given to delivering standing freshwater or woodland habitat to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS;
  5. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. preservation of views of the Church Tower, in views from Earls Colne Road, and preservation of open green space in the foreground of this view (along the northern edge of the site), to help preserve the visual connection between the Church Tower and conservation area and the surrounding open agricultural landscape;
    2. green space buffer to separate Newbarn Farmyard from any new development;
    3. the use of green space (especially in the west and north of the site) should be used to preserve the rural character;
    4. the use of a view corridor down the centre of the site;
    5. the use of green space and planting to break up the development;
    6. limiting the heights of buildings;
    7. sensitive design should be used to retain the agricultural setting;
    8. prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  6. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Wakes Colne/Chappel Mobility Hub
  7. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.

All development Proposals within Great Tey parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Great Tey Neighbourhood Plan (adopted October 2024) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP36a: Land East of Brook Road, Great Tey Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 50 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. preserving and enhancing field boundaries to soften the edge of new development in views looking towards Great Tey Conservation Area;
    2. use of a buffer of green space in the northernmost part of the site to distance development from the medieval moated homestead monument to prevent its loss or deterioration and maintain the historic settlement edge;
    3. limiting the heights and density of buildings;
    4. development should be focussed behind the existing residential properties on Brook Road and massed away from the south west corner of the site where it is likely to be most visible from the Churchyard of St Barnabas;
    5. site access should be located towards the southern part of the site where safe and practicable;
    6. prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  3. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  4. The site is within a Waste Consultation Area (WCA). Applications made within WCAs are required to include a Waste Infrastructure Impact Assessment (WIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of WIIA.
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Wakes Colne/Chappel Mobility Hub.

All development Proposals within Great Tey Parish Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the Great Tey Neighbourhood Plan (adopted October 2024) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.


Langham View map Settlement Boundary

12.116Langham includes two areas of settlement, Langham Moor and St. Margaret’s Cross, linked by School Road. A former WWII airfield lies between the two areas. The village contains a mixture of historic properties and farmhouses with more recent development. Langham contains a public house, a community café, a community shop, community centre, recreation ground, a playground, football pitches and tennis courts. It lies close to the A12 trunk road – a strategic transport corridor. The Dedham Vale National Landscape is outside the settlement to the north and east.

12.117 Langham’s allocation reflects the spatial strategy’s focus on directing growth to sustainable and accessible locations, including key transport corridors such as the A12. While identified as a medium settlement, its strategic location enables it to accommodate a higher level of development than would be expected under a purely proportionate approach. The scale of growth is therefore justified as it supports sustainable travel patterns, infrastructure delivery and the overall strategy of concentrating development in well-connected locations. This approach ensures that growth is aligned with the plan’s wider objectives of delivering sustainable communities and making efficient use of accessible locations.

12.118The Council recognises that there are existing constraints in relation to wastewater treatment capacity and the foul drainage network serving Langham. Policy NZ3 applies to all development and requires that adequate capacity is available or can be provided, and this will be a key consideration in bringing sites forward. Engagement with Anglian Water will be required to ensure that development is appropriately phased to align with infrastructure upgrades, and that suitable solutions are identified and secured. This may include consideration of interim or alternative delivery mechanisms, such as a New Appointment and Variation (NAV) arrangement, where appropriate, which could be adopted by Anglian Water in the future.

Policy PP37: Land north of Park Lane, Langham Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver a comprehensive, high quality and co-ordinated development that provides for the following site-specific requirements:

  1. A predominantly residential development including community infrastructure, strategic open space and approximately 850 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Impacts on the Strategic Road Network can be satisfactorily mitigated to the satisfaction of National Highways.
  3. Provision for primary education and Early Years & Childcare. 2.2ha of land within the development area shall be safeguarded for primary and Early Years purposes to ensure education facilities can be provided locally for new residents without impacting the existing provision
  4. An active travel plan to be agreed with the Council which ensures site wide active travel connectivity within and beyond the site.
  5. 'Enhanced Open Space' substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space. This should include at least one area of strategic open space located centrally within the site to provide a naturally landscaped community space that is well connected to new and existing development and which could contribute to SANG alongside multiple areas of less formal and more incidental ‘doorstop’ open space.
  6. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for enhancement of existing hedgerows. Soil conditions may favour the creation of higher distinctiveness grasslands, including some of a calcareous character.
  7. Support will be given to delivering grassland habitat to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS.
  8. Demonstrate that there is capacity available in the sewerage network and at the receiving Water Recycling Centre to accommodate wastewater flows from the proposal for treatment and discharge. Where insufficient capacity is available to serve the proposal at the point of anticipated connection, development will be required to be phased, or otherwise appropriately managed, to ensure that connections do not take place until the necessary infrastructure capacity is available. Development will only be supported when the necessary infrastructure improvements have been demonstrated to be deliverable and will be completed prior to occupation of the development.
  9. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. Planting around the edge of the development should be maintained to preserve the green backdrop to the listed buildings in views looking out from the main village throughfares;
    2. where possible large blocks of development should be avoided and development should be broken up by planting and green space. Efforts should be made to retain the roadside ribbon-style character of settlement in the area and dense, uniform layouts should be avoided;
    3. the existing treeline should be retained. The tree lines that form the boundaries of the site, as well as those within the site should be preserved and enhanced in order to maintain visual screening for nearby listed buildings;
    4. green space should be retained along Park Lane to preserve the dispersed character of the settlement in this area. Planting should be used to screen new development where possible from the listed buildings along this road;
    5. site access should be located away from the listed buildings in order to reduce traffic and visual intrusion near heritage assets;
  10. Provision of a new local centre to serve the new and existing local community. This may include provision of retail, commercial and community facilities (including education) at an appropriate scale, relevant to the role and function of a local centre and the communities it is intended to serve.
  11. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.
  12. Development proposals within a Mineral Safeguarding Area will require a Mineral Resource Assessment (MRA). This applies to all planning applications for development on a site located within an MSA that is 5ha or more for sand and gravel, 3ha or more for chalk and greater than 1 dwelling for brickearth or brick clay. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority for further information with regards to the scope of the MRA.
  13. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Langham Mobility Hub
    2. Cycle route improvements to connect to Park and Ride and access to the Rapid Transit System
    3. New or improved bus connection and service to connect with the P&R at Boxted Road
    4. New or improved community facilities to be informed by the Parish Council
  14.  Development shall minimise light pollution through a comprehensive lighting strategy informed by the Dedham Vale National Landscape Lighting Design Guide. Lighting shall protect dark skies, tranquillity, residential amenity and ecological networks.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

12.119The scale of the allocation at Park Lane, Langham provides an opportunity to plan for growth in a comprehensive manner and secure a range of infrastructure, community and environmental benefits that would be unlikely to come forward through a series of smaller, dispersed sites. The allocation is intended to create a well-designed and sustainable community, integrating new homes with green infrastructure, community facilities, education provision and improved opportunities for walking, cycling and public transport use.

12.120A comprehensive masterplan will be required to establish a clear vision for the site and ensure that development is coordinated from the outset. The masterplanning process should consider movement, landscape, ecology, heritage, drainage, infrastructure delivery and the relationship between new and existing communities as part of an integrated approach to placemaking. This will ensure that development responds positively to local character whilst creating a distinct and cohesive new neighbourhood.

12.121 The allocation has been identified as a strategic location for growth due to its accessibility and proximity to the A12 corridor. The scale of development proposed enables the delivery of new infrastructure, services, open spaces and community facilities that can benefit both existing and future residents. Development will be expected to come forward in a coordinated manner, with appropriate phasing to ensure that supporting infrastructure is provided alongside growth and that impacts on existing communities are appropriately managed.

12.122Although the site does not lie within the Dedham Vale National Landscape careful attention will be required to landscape character, views and settlement form. The masterplanning and design process should be landscape-led, making full use of retained vegetation, existing field boundaries, green corridors and open spaces to help incorporate development into its surroundings and provide a sensitive transition between the village and the wider countryside.

12.123Development will need to take account of the existing capacity constraints within the Langham Wastewater Recycling Centre (WRC) catchment. The Water Cycle Study identifies that the WRC is currently operating at its permitted discharge limit and that there are existing sewer network capacity issues within the catchment, including infiltration of surface water and groundwater into the sewer system. Further environmental assessment and infrastructure improvements will be required to accommodate the scale of growth proposed through the Local Plan.

12.124 Given the scale of the allocation, early and ongoing collaboration between the developer, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be essential to ensure that wastewater infrastructure is planned and delivered in a coordinated, timely and environmentally sustainable manner. Developers will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at the earliest opportunity and, prior to the submission of a planning application, demonstrate that sufficient capacity is available within both the Langham WRC and the associated sewerage network to accommodate the proposed development, or that an agreed strategy is in place to deliver the necessary infrastructure upgrades. This may require development to be phased to align with the provision of wastewater infrastructure and available network capacity.

12.125A comprehensive site-wide foul drainage strategy should be prepared and agreed at an early stage of the development process. This should identify the preferred long-term solution, including a single sustainable point of connection to the public sewerage network, and demonstrate how the necessary wastewater infrastructure will be secured and delivered alongside development. Development proposals should be supported by evidence of engagement with Anglian Water Services and confirmation of the proposed servicing and connection strategy.

12.126Where temporary drainage arrangements are required to facilitate early phases of development, these must be appropriately controlled, time-limited and linked to clearly defined triggers for the delivery and operation of permanent infrastructure. Development phasing should be aligned with the timely provision of wastewater infrastructure to avoid adverse impacts on network performance, receiving watercourses and the environment.

12.127 Close partnership working between the developer, the Council and Anglian Water Services will be required throughout the planning, delivery and occupation of the site to ensure that growth is supported by adequate wastewater infrastructure capacity and integrated with longer-term investment programmes, thereby facilitating sustainable development and environmental protection.

Policy PP38: Land opposite Wick Road, Langham Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 10 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance the distinctiveness and condition of retained areas of grassland and hedgerow;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. enhancing the planting along the southern boundary of the site;
    2. the use of green space (especially in the south);
    3. consideration in the design of any development within the site to limit the heights of buildings;
    4. further work of archaeological evaluation and recording is recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development;
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. Langham Mobility Hub
    2. Cycle route improvements to connect to Park and Ride and access to the Rapid Transit System
    3. New or improved bus connection and service to connect with the P&R at Boxted Road
    4. New or improved community facilities to be informed by the Parish Council
  5.  Development shall minimise light pollution through a comprehensive lighting strategy informed by the Dedham Vale National Landscape Lighting Design Guide. Lighting shall protect dark skies, tranquillity, residential amenity and ecological networks.

12.128Development within the Langham Wastewater Recycling Centre (WRC) catchment will need to take account of existing capacity constraints within both the wastewater treatment works and the associated sewerage network. The Water Cycle Study identifies that the WRC is currently operating at its permitted discharge limit and that there are existing sewer network capacity issues within the catchment, including infiltration of surface water and groundwater into the sewer system. Further environmental assessment and infrastructure improvements will be required to accommodate planned growth.

12.129Developers will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at the earliest opportunity and, prior to the submission of a planning application, demonstrate that sufficient capacity is available within both the Langham WRC and the associated sewer network to accommodate the proposed development, or that an agreed strategy is in place to deliver any necessary upgrades. Development proposals should be accompanied by evidence of consultation with Anglian Water Services and confirmation of the proposed point of connection and servicing strategy.

12.130Given the identified infrastructure constraints, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of sewerage network improvements and any future wastewater treatment capacity enhancements. In particular, the timing of housing delivery should have regard to the recommendations of the Water Cycle Study and the availability of infrastructure capacity, ensuring that growth does not result in adverse impacts on existing communities, the sewerage system or the water environment.

Policy PEP10 Lodge Lane, Langham Comment View map Employment

Land at Lodge Lane, as shown on the policies map, is safeguarded for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1.

Layer de la Haye View map Settlement Boundary

12.131Development in Layer de la Haye is concentrated within two settlement areas: Layer village and Malting Green. The two areas are physically separated by a large grass sward known as Malting Green, a large part of which is a designated Local Wildlife Site (Co 93). It is also an important open space that plays an important function in defining the rural character of the existing two settlement areas. Layer de la Haye has a mix of community and social infrastructure including a primary school, GP surgery, shop, two pubs, village hall and open spaces.

Policy PP39: Land at The Furze, Layer de la Haye Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 10 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing, including the provision of bungalows or almshouses, to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Proposals should take into account the opportunities included in the LoWS Addendum report (2026) (including hedgerow management and maintenance, meadow creation, tree retention, and scrub management) to avoid or minimise the potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation associated with development, and the threat of disturbance and degradation associated with its long-term occupation. Where possible, adjacent developments should contribute to cohesive ecological mitigation and enhancement.
  3. Ecological surveys should further explore the invertebrate assemblage through a review of species records and, potentially, targeted surveys and assess eligibility against the LoWS invertebrate criteria and demonstrate appropriate mitigation if required.
  4. Contributions will be required towards improvements to public transport including provision of new bus stop(s).

Policy PP40: Land West of The Folley, Layer de la Haye Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 75 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing, including the provision of bungalows and/or almshouses, to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance woodland and grassland habitat. The site is on superficial sands and gravels that could make the site suitable for the creation of Lowland Dry Acid Grassland if nutrient levels can be lowered.
  3. Proposals should take into account the opportunities included in the LoWS Addendum report (2026) (including hedgerow management and maintenance, meadow creation, tree retention, scrub management, and grassland enhancement) to avoid or minimise the potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation associated with development, and the threat of disturbance and degradation associated with its long-term occupation. Where possible, adjacent developments should contribute to cohesive ecological mitigation and enhancement.
  4. Ecological surveys should further explore the invertebrate assemblage through a review of species records and, potentially, targeted surveys and assess eligibility against the LoWS invertebrate criteria and demonstrate appropriate mitigation if required.
  5. Whilst there are two landowners, only one access to serve both sites will be supported and it must be demonstrated that the access point does not alter the rural character of The Folley.
  6. An active travel link through both sites to the adjoining site to the south (Monarch Rise) to connect with the village.
  7. Provision of community facilities informed by the Parish Council including allotments and provision of a play area within the development site.
  8. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. improvements to public transport including provision of new bus stop(s);
    2.  improvements to the village hall, MUGA, recreation ground, (including but not limited to outdoor gym and play equipment) and Malting Green, all to be agreed with the Parish Council.

Policy PP40a: Malting Green Road, Layer de la Haye Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 30 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing, including the provision of bungalows and/or almshouses, to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: retain grassland, hedgerow enhancement and tree planting.
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (High Level Heritage Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site, including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space and planting to break up and soften development and help retain the rural character of the area;
    2. the retention and reinforcement of existing hedgerows and boundary planting to soften the transition between the development and the surrounding landscape and to help preserve the setting of Great House Farmhouse;
    3. the use of planting around the edge of the development to provide screening and reduce the potential for development to become visible from Great House Farmhouse should intervening vegetation be lost in the future;
    4. limits on the height, scale and massing of buildings to ensure development reflects the surrounding built form and does not become visually intrusive; and
    5. prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological assessment and evaluation, including a review of any previous surveys or test-pitting work, to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary.
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. improvements to public transport including provision of new bus stop(s);
    2. improvements to the village hall, MUGA, recreation ground, (including but not limited to outdoor gym and play equipment) and Malting Green, all to be agreed with the Parish Council.

Rowhedge View map Settlement Boundary

12.132Rowhedge lies within the parish of East Donyland, which covers the south-east of Colchester. The settlement was historically centred around the shipbuilding and fishing industries of the River Colne. The village lies on the opposite bank of the river to Wivenhoe but despite its close proximity to the town, access is only available by road through Colchester. Rowhedge has good public transport and road links to Colchester and contains its own primary school, post office and recreational facilities.

Policy PP41: Rowhedge Business Park, Rowhedge Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 50 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance the adjacent woodland and open mosaic condition.
  3. The area of woodland within the site must be safeguarded and retained as tree cover and open space.
  4. Development proposals should seek to avoid or minimise the potential threat of habitat loss and fragmentation associated with development, and the threat of disturbance and degradation associated with its long-term occupation (as identified in the LoWS Review 2026).
  5. Ecological surveys must determine whether the entire woodland resource meets the LoWS criteria. Where part of the site may meet LoWS selection criteria, the criteria mitigation and compensation measures must be incorporated into the design of the proposal.
  6. Contributions will be required towards expansion of the existing Rowhedge University Medical Practice.

West Bergholt View map Settlement Boundary

12.133 West Bergholt is situated approximately 1km to the north-west of Colchester. The village is centred around a triangle of roads: the B1508 Colchester Road, Chappel Road and Lexden Road. West Bergholt is separated from Colchester by an area of open countryside and the valleys of St Botolph’s Brook and the River Colne. The A12 bisects the open countryside between West Bergholt and Colchester. The majority of the more recent development has occurred on the northern side of Colchester Road.

12.134The Local Plan allocations for West Bergholt complement and extend the pattern of growth established through the adopted West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan. The allocations represent a continuation of the village's plan-led approach to growth, making use of sites that relate well to the existing settlement and can contribute towards meeting housing needs while supporting local services and facilities. The allocations will assist in delivering sustainable growth in a manner that respects the character of the village and its landscape setting.

12.135Given the current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the West Bergholt Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network, applicants for all sites in West Bergholt will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at an early stage and demonstrate, prior to the submission of a planning application, that sufficient capacity is available to accommodate the proposed development, or that appropriate infrastructure upgrades have been agreed to support it, which may include sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks to minimise impacts on existing communities and the environment. Where capacity is not available within the required timescales, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of necessary wastewater infrastructure improvements.

Policy PP42: Land at White Hart Lane, West Bergholt Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 185 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs, including the latest West Bergholt Housing Needs Survey; and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the use of green space (especially in the west and south) to break up blocks of development;
    2. the use of planting to soften the built edge of development;
    3. limits on the heights of buildings;
    4. the consideration of the historical field layouts to inform the development plan and layout;
    5. development to respect local historical character distinctiveness;
    6. consideration of the historical field and street layouts to inform the development plan and layout;
    7. Prior to the submission of a planning application the developer will be required to undertake and fund further archaeological evaluation and recording and settings assessment for the Scheduled Hillfort to fully characterise the archaeological potential of the site and identify any archaeological mitigation measures that may be necessary;
  3. Safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards. The point of vehicular access to be off Colchester Road via the existing Neighbourhood Plan site allocation to be agreed with the Highway Authority.
  4. Policy PC4 sets out considerations regarding density of development additionally, consideration to be given to regard to the West Bergholt Housing Density Survey and any updated evidence where appropriate;
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. safe crossings from the development across Colchester Road.
    2. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes including connecting to North Station roundabout via B1508
    3. West Bergholt Mobility Hub
    4. Enhancements to Poors Land Lorkin Daniell Field and William Sims Sports Field;
    5. A community hub

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

All development proposals within West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2019) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PP43: Land North of Colchester Road, West Bergholt Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 185 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs, including the latest West Bergholt Housing Needs Survey; and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Safe and suitable site access to required highway design standards. The point of vehicular access is to be off William Sims Close to be agreed with the Highway Authority;
  3. Provide a safe pedestrian access to ensure connectivity within and throughout the site to existing footways and any public rights of way, particularly to the west and to Armoury Road to the east. Ensure provision of green infrastructure connections and recreational access to the countryside, also securing active travel links and connections to the settlement;
  4. Policy PC4 sets out considerations regarding density of development additionally, consideration to be given to regard to the West Bergholt Housing Density Survey and any updated evidence where appropriate;
  5. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. safe crossings from the development across Colchester Road.
    2. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes including connecting to North Station roundabout via B1508
    3. West Bergholt Mobility Hub
    4. Enhancements to Poors Land, Lorkin Daniell Field and William Sims Sports Field;
    5. A community hub.

Proposals for the allocated site will only be supported where they accord with a comprehensive masterplan in relation to the entire allocation, that has been agreed with the Council prior to submission of any planning application. The masterplan must be of sufficient detail to ensure optimal placemaking and housing delivery outcomes for the allocation and should be informed by an appropriate evidence base. The masterplan should be developed in collaboration with the Council, and relevant infrastructure providers, it should incorporate engagement with the local community and be informed by use of design review. Where appropriate and necessary, the masterplan shall be supported by parameter plans, design codes and/or guidance.

All development proposals within West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2019) where they are up to date and relevant. This includes consideration of the most up to date local housing needs evidence.

Policy PEP11 Land at Pattens Yard, West Bergholt Comment View map Employment

Land at Pattens Yard, West Bergholt, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment uses in accordance with Policy E1. In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other policies, proposals for employment uses will be supported on land within the area identified on the policies map which accord with Policy E1 and provide:

  1. 0.7ha of open space and/or green infrastructure;
  2. Demonstrate that development will avoid harming the operation of the stables, the safety of riders and access to public footpath 4;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. large areas of built development should be avoided where possible, especially towards the western edge of the site;
    2. design should reflect the rural and agricultural setting and respond to the character of the surrounding heritage assets;
    3. the tree and hedge lines that form parts of the boundaries of the site should be preserved and enhanced to maintain visual screening for nearby heritage assets;
    4. the layout of the development should incorporate areas of green space and planting in order to break up areas of built development and to help preserve the rural and dispersed character of the area, especially in the west of the site. These should also allow views out towards the Iron Age Small multivallate hillfort known as Pitchbury Ramparts and Alcrofts;
    5. site access should be located to the north-east, towards the existing employment development, to reduce traffic and visual intrusion near heritage assets and limit gaps in the surrounding planting;
    6. conserve the milestone: If the milestone is able to be found, it may be possible to carry out conservation work and ensure that it is sited in an appropriate position;
    7. The site is within a Waste Consultation Area (WCA). Applications made within WCAs are required to include a Waste Infrastructure Impact Assessment (WIIA) as part of its evidence base. Please liaise with the Minerals and Waste Planning authority for further information with regards to the scope and content of WIIA;
  4. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. LCWIP (Walking and Cycling) Routes including connecting to North Station roundabout via B1508

All development proposals within West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan Area, will also be determined against the policies in the West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan (Adopted October 2019) where they are up to date and relevant.


Small Settlements

12.136Small settlements play an important role in maintaining the rural character and diversity of place across the district. Consistent with the spatial strategy, these settlements will accommodate only limited and carefully managed growth. Development will be small-scale and proportionate to the size, role and function of the settlement, supporting local needs while safeguarding their distinct character, landscape setting and environmental assets.

12.137Opportunities for infill and redevelopment within settlement boundaries will be supported where they respect the pattern and form of the village, avoid cumulative harm, and can be accommodated within existing infrastructure capacity or supported by appropriate mitigation. In many cases, environmental and infrastructure constraints limit the scope for growth, and not all small settlements will be identified for development.

12.138 This approach ensures that small settlements continue to contribute to sustainable patterns of development, while recognising the importance of protecting the countryside and avoiding unsustainable dispersal of growth.

Aldham View map Settlement Boundary

12.139 Aldham is a nucleated settlement that has developed around the junction of Brook Road/New Road and Green Lane/Tey Road with more modern development to the north-east and south-east. Aldham is rural in character and is accessed by narrow country lanes but is close to the A12/A120 and A1124.

Policy PP45: Land off New Road, Aldham Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 15 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. 'Enhanced Open Space' as shown on the policies map in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space to reflect the site characteristics.
  3. Any loss of hedgerow to allow for suitable access must be compensated.
  4. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. retention and enhancement of the hedge and trees along the east and south east boundaries of the site to maintain screening to the church;
    2. limitation on building height to ensure they are in keeping with the surrounding development;
    3. further work of archaeological evaluation and recording is recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development.

Policy PEP15: Land at Former Mill Race Nursery, Aldham Comment View map Employment

Land at Mill Race Nursery, Aldham, as shown on the policies map, is allocated for employment, leisure and community uses. Proposals for an appropriate mix of uses will be supported subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this Plan.

All land and premises within this area will be safeguarded for a mix of employment, commercial and leisure uses, in accordance with Policy E1. Other Class uses will be supported where they are ancillary to the existing employment, leisure and community uses on the site and are intended to serve the primary function of the site, subject to any requirements for a sequential / impact test where the this applies.

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. the retention of planting and trees along the eastern boundary to provide natural screening between heritage assets and new development;
    2. sensitive design and layout to protect the rural character of the conservation area and its connection to the river;
    3. limit on building heights;
    4. the retention of a buffer of open space around the pillbox and towards the river to maintain connection;
    5. the careful treatment of the north-west corner of the site and controls on construction vehicle movements near south-west corner to preserve the pillbox and anti-tank pimple in situ and
    6. further work of archaeological evaluation and recording is recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development.

Birch and Layer Breton Comment Settlement Boundary (1) Settlement Boundary (2)

12.140Birch Green is the largest area of housing within the wider Birch parish area (with the smaller historic core of Birch to the north and a separate, isolated cluster of dwellings known as Hardy’s Green to the north-west). Birch Green is broadly triangular in shape where development has filled the space between Birch Street, Mill Lane and Straight Way, with some development extending beyond Mill Lane and Birch Street to the north and Crayes Green to the south-east. Birch Green is rural in character, has limited connections to the strategic road network but has a few key services including its own primary school and village hall.

12.141Layer Breton is a linear settlement that has developed over time as a form of ribbon development along Layer Breton Hill, which is a rural road that links Colchester with Tolleshunt D’Arcy via Birch. Layer Breton is rural in character, poorly connected to the strategic road network and is accessed by narrow country lanes.

Policy PP46: Land at Birch Green, Birch Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 15 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development.
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: grassland and hedgerow enhancement and tree planting.
  3. Grassland compensation and any mitigation set out in protected species surveys (there is a pond 25m east of the site).
  4. 'Enhanced Open Space' substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space onsite and demonstrate how this can link to the adjacent open space to the north.
  5. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. preserve views of the spire of the Church of St Peter and Paul in Birch;
    2. maintain and enhance screening separating the site from Mill House;
    3. use green space and planting to break up development in views from the Birch Conservation Area;
    4. limit the heights of buildings so they are in keeping with surrounding development;
    5. further work of archaeological evaluation and recording is recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development.
  6. Safeguarding of suitable access for the maintenance of existing water supply infrastructure.

Fingringhoe Settlement Boundary (1) Isollated Village (2)

12.142Fingringhoe is essentially a linear settlement comprised of two main residential areas that have developed either side of the historic core of Fingringhoe, which contains a primary school, church and public house. Fingringhoe is a designated rural area, which means affordable housing will be required for schemes of 5 dwellings or more.

12.143The built up area to the east of the historic core of Fingringhoe is isolated, with one access road in and out (Church Road) which could make evacuation difficult in times of an emergency such as from hazards including wildfires and flooding. This area is indicated on the policies map to highlight this as a key consideration for the design, and impact, of new development close to these locations.

Policy PP47: Land at Picketts Farm, Fingringhoe Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 5 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for grassland habitat;
  3. Have regard to the Essex LNRS, which identifies a strategic opportunity for grassland habitat north of the site.

12.144Given the current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the Fingringhoe Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network, the applicant will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at an early stage and demonstrate, prior to the submission of a planning application, that sufficient capacity is available to accommodate the proposed development, or that appropriate infrastructure upgrades have been agreed to support it, which may include sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks to minimise impacts on existing communities and the environment. Where capacity is not available within the required timescales, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of necessary wastewater infrastructure improvements.

Messing View map Settlement Boundary

12.145 Messing is located north of Tiptree. Messing is very rural and historic in character and is accessed by narrow country lanes. It has limited services and facilities but it has a primary school.

Policy PP48: Kelvedon Road, Messing Comment Residential Allocation (1) Enhanced Open Space Provision (2)

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and site specific infrastructure requirements from the IADP and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 25 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. 'Enhanced Open Space' as shown on the Policies Map substantively in excess of 10% of the allocation area must be provided as open space. This should include a minimum of 1.7ha of public open space;
  3. Support will be given to delivering standing freshwater habitat to support the delivery of the strategic creation opportunities in the Essex LNRS;
  4. Provision of a footway access to the primary school
  5. Ensure provision of green infrastructure connections and recreational access to the countryside via public rights of way 3 and 17
  6. In accordance with Policy EN6 development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to:
    1. Views must be preserved towards the church tower at the Grade II* listed Church of All Saints, with use of green space to break up large blocks of development to retain rural character of the settlement particularly adjacent to Kelvedon Road;
    2. green space and planting on the northern edge of the development to help preserve the setting of Osborne House;
    3. use of green space and planting to break up large blocks of development and help retain rural character of the settlement;
    4. limits on the heights of buildings;
    5. further work of a geophysical survey and archaeological evaluation is recommended in order to reduce and/or offset any adverse impacts from any development;
  7. A site-specific drainage strategy must be prepared to ensure existing surface water flooding issues are not exacerbated by the development and that development design is compatible with, and complements, existing flood mitigation solutions on site and in the village;
  8. Contributions will be required towards:
    1. expansion of Mildene school in Tiptree; and
    2. the new Tiptree medical centre;
  9. Before granting planning consent, wintering bird surveys will be undertaken to identify any offsite functional habitat. Wintering bird surveys should comprise two winter seasons, and both diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Natural England should be contacted for advice on how to determine whether mitigation is required based on the strength of the functional link. In the unlikely event that significant numbers are identified, development must firstly avoid impacts. Where this is not possible, development must be phased to deliver habitat creation and management either on or off-site to mitigate any significant impacts. Any such habitat must be provided and fully functional before any development takes place which would affect significant numbers of SPA birds.

Peldon View map Settlement Boundary

12.146Housing in Peldon is laid out in a triangular pattern around three roads. The settlement boundary in Peldon currently comprises two roughly equivalent areas of housing on either side of two of the three roads. The triangular residential area is surrounded by arable farms. The village lies within the Coastal Protection Belt.

12.147Given the current constraints and uncertainty regarding available wastewater treatment capacity within the Fingringhoe Wastewater Recycling Centre catchment and associated sewerage network, the applicant will be required to engage with Anglian Water Services at an early stage and demonstrate, prior to the submission of a planning application, that sufficient capacity is available to accommodate the proposed development, or that appropriate infrastructure upgrades have been agreed to support it, which may include sustainable points of connection to the water supply and wastewater networks to minimise impacts on existing communities and the environment. Where capacity is not available within the required timescales, development may need to be phased to align with the delivery of necessary wastewater infrastructure improvements.

Policy PP49a: Land South of Mersea Road, Peldon Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 25 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: creation of new grassland and hedges and tree planting;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (2026) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site., including but not limited to:
    1. retention of openness within the north-eastern part of the site where feasible, to help preserve rural views from Grade II listed Slane Cottage;
    2. lower density development along the Mersea Road frontage to provide a softer transition between the settlement and surrounding countryside; 
    3. use of green space, structural planting and boundary landscaping to break up built form and retain the rural character of the site; 
    4. boundary planting to along the southern and eastern boundaries where possible to avoid a hard settlement edge;
    5. careful treatment of Mersea Road frontage to respond sensitively to the historic roadside settlement pattern, not appearing overly prominent in views from Slane Cottage;
    6. building heights, scale and massing that respond to the surrounding settlement pattern and avoid visually dominant development; and
    7. further archaeological assessment and evaluation to inform the design of development and any necessary mitigation measures.

Policy PP49b: Land west of Malting Road, Peldon Comment View map Residential Allocation

In addition to the infrastructure and mitigation requirements identified in Policy ST7 and subject to compliance with all other relevant policies of this plan, development proposals within the area identified on the policies map will be expected to deliver the following site-specific requirements:

  1. Approximately 5 new dwellings of a mix, type and tenure of housing to meet evidenced needs and respond appropriately to the character of surrounding development;
  2. Delivery of BNG in accordance with Policy EN2 and informed by site specific ecological assessment, with opportunities for the following onsite habitat: enhance the pond within the site and creation of new grassland, hedgerows and tree planting;
  3. In accordance with Policy EN6, development proposals should have regard to the Heritage Impact Assessment (Stage 2 Impact Assessment 2025) which identified key sensitivities and mitigation measures for this site. Including but not limited to :
    1. respect the setting of and conserve the local distinctiveness of the Church of St Mary
    2. the retention and enhancement of planting around the edges of the site, particularly to the south and east;
    3. the use of green space within the new development to break up density, in keeping with the rural character of the settlement;
    4. development to be set back from Maltings Road to soften views to the west;
    5. the use of appropriate building heights, scale and massing that reflect the surrounding development; and
    6. further desk based archaeological assessment and evaluation and possible geophysical survey
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