Sustainability Appraisal

Object

Representation ID: 13529

Received: 13/01/2026

Respondent: Environmental Law Foundation

The Sustainability Appraisal notes the site’s proximity to Blackwater Estuary SPA, Ramsar, and SSSI but omits reference to designated shellfish waters and the hydrological link between West Mersea WRC and Essex Estuaries SAC. Proposed mitigation—such as grassland enhancement, freshwater habitat creation, and measures to protect overwintering birds—does not address risks identified in the WCS Technical Note, including potential impacts on Essex Estuaries SAC, the Marine Conservation Zone, and shellfish waters. Without incorporating these considerations, the mitigation strategy is incomplete and fails to safeguard designated sites from water quality impacts associated with development.