Sustainability Appraisal

Support

Representation ID: 14255

Received: 18/01/2026

Respondent: Natural England

Natural England welcomes the discounting of Middlewick Ranges as a site allocation in the Colchester Preferred Options Local Plan, and the rationale provided. As noted, above we welcome the proposed new enhanced biodiversity and open space dedication
on this land, to ensure its importance is recognised in the long-term. Our advice is that its delivery
should be secured through the relevant Local Plan policy.
We note that alternative 10953a (larger site including additional land to the south towards Weir
Lane) was also considered. We assume that alternative site 10953a is also discounted.
Please refer to comments in NE’s previous
response.