Development will be permitted for proposals that are not inappropriate development in the Green Belt as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. Inappropriate development is harmful to the Green Belt and will not be permitted except in very special circumstances. Very special circumstances will not exist unless the potential harm to the Green Belt by reason of inappropriateness, and any other harm, is clearly outweighed by other considerations. Very special circumstances may include proposals for water infrastructure and ancillary development where there is a demonstrable need and directly associated with the role, function and operation of the Hanningfield Reservoir Treatment Works Site.

Subject to national policy on Green Belt, development proposals should optimise opportunities for sustainable means of transport to the site and reduce individual trips by car; provide high quality buildings; focus built form around existing buildings; protect and enhance trees and hedgerows; avoid adverse impacts in respect of biodiversity and landscape; and promote the nature conservation interests and recreational uses of the reservoir without impact upon the nature conservation interests of Hanningfield Reservoir SSSI through recreational disturbance. Development proposals are also expected to provide suitable SuDS and flood risk management.

For more information, please visit Chelmsford’s Local Plan here.