1. Introduction

We have reviewed the SEA screening report and can confirm that we do not disagree with the conclusion reached within the report, that a SEA is not required.

Natural England is a non-departmental public body. Our statutory purpose is to ensure that the natural environment is conserved, enhanced, and managed for the benefit of present and future generations, thereby contributing to sustainable development.

Natural England has no comments to make on the Affordable Housing SPD consultation - SEA & HRA screening

The lack of comment from Natural England should not be interpreted as a statement that there are no impacts on the natural environment. Other bodies and individuals may wish to make comments that might help the Local Planning Authority (LPA) to fully take account of any environmental risks and opportunities relating to this document.

Should the proposal be amended in a way which significantly affects its impact on the natural environment, then in accordance with Section 4 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, please consult Natural England again.

National Highways is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and improvement of the Strategic Road Network (SRN) in England on behalf of the Secretary of the State.

We have reviewed the draft Affordable Housing SPD (dated September 2022) for the Colchester Borough Council. The SPD provides information and guidance upon how local plan policies should be applied. The Affordable Housing SPD provides the context of
when and how these specific housing types can be delivered across the Borough.

The Affordable Housing SPD outlines the affordable housing annual requirements, delivery of affordable housing, off-site affordable housing and commuted sums, viability, rural exception sites, and vacant building credit. Consequently, statements set out in this SPD are unlikely to have any material impact on the operation of the trunk road.

Therefore, National Highways offers no comment

Thank you for consulting Anglian Water in relation to the draft Affordable Housing SPD. I can confirm that we have no comments regarding this consultation.

Thank you for consulting us on the Draft Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). As the Government’s adviser on the historic environment Historic England is keen to ensure that the protection of the historic environment is fully taken into account at all stages and levels of the local planning process, and therefore welcome the opportunity to comment on this document. I can confirm that while we do not have any specific comments to make at this stage, we will be interested in receiving subsequent consultations on this and related documents.