Purpose

The Council previously consulted on draft
Conservation Area Appraisals for St Osyth (October 2021) and
Manningtree & Mistley (May 2022). These consultations generated
a significant number of responses from residents, stakeholders, and
statutory consultees. Following a detailed review of the feedback
and further analysis of historic mapping and on-the-ground
features, Officers propose targeted amendments to both the
appraisal documents and the boundaries of the Conservation
Areas.

The proposed changes are considered significant and warrant a
further four-week period of focused public consultation. This will
include publication of updated documents and direct notification to
previous respondents.

Content

To undertake a focused public consultation on
proposed changes to the Conservation Area Appraisals for St Osyth
and Manningtree and Mistley, arising from feedback received during
previous public consultations.

Alternative options considered

1) Conduct Focused Consultation:

This option involves undertaking a four-week public consultation
specifically on the proposed boundary changes and key amendments to
the Conservation Area Appraisals. It ensures transparency, allows
affected stakeholders to comment on material changes, and aligns
with best practice. This option is preferred due to the
significance of the proposed revisions.
2) Proceed Without Further Public Consultation:

This option would involve recommending to Cabinet that the
appraisal documents are adopted without further public engagement.
It was rejected because the proposed boundary changes (affecting St
Osyth Creek and Mistley Park) are substantial and materially alter
the extent of the designated areas. Proceeding without consultation
could undermine public confidence and reduce the robustness of the
final appraisals.