Members were reminded that the Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Basildon Borough Council following approval by Planning & Development Committee on 4 November 2014. The MoU committed both Councils to prepare a joint consultation document to seek views on the concept of development to the east of West Horndon (in Brentwood Borough) and west of Laindon (in Basildon Borough); hereafter known as Dunton Garden Suburb.

The Dunton Garden Suburb consultation document set out the context, challenges, constraints and aspirations which both Councils had discussed through the duty to cooperate. It did not currently constitute part of the emerging Brentwood Local Development Plan, instead provided an opportunity for both Councils to consult on an ‘initial concept’ to then determine whether it should be taken any further.

Commentary on the Sustainability Appraisal and Habitats Regulations Assessment had been prepared to provide an initial, high level assessment of the likely effects of development.

The consultation would take place for a period of six weeks, from 6 January until 17 February 2015. A consultation strategy had been prepared that set out how both Councils would advertise the consultation and seek to engage of local communities and stakeholders.

Cllr Baker MOVED and Cllr Mynott SECONDED the recommendations in the report and following a full discussion it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY to approve the Dunton Garden Suburb consultation document for a six week joint public consultation with Basildon Borough Council.