Despite GAG’s legal case Basildon Council have published the proposed plan, on their online planning site, for off and on-site mitigation for the Dry Street pastures. The council’s decision to publish these documents does not mean that our legal case has failed or that it is in any way less robust. We are still awaiting our appeal hearing for permission for judicial review. Should we succeed then their mitigation plans will all be for nothing. Let us hope that is the case.

Put simply the off-site plan is for populations of reptiles and badgers that are in the way to be trapped and transported to Runwell, actually it is nearer Rettendon. They are even planning to relocate the turves. It is very sad reading particularly when the reports acknowledges the immense importance of the site and the fragile populations of flora and fauna then go on to list how much harm will be done. The proposed on-site measures are designed to save pockets of biodiversity which will reduce chances of survival of species.

Access to the documents is via http://planning.basildon.gov.uk by entering the planning reference14/01176/COND into simple search. Under the tab labelled documents there are a list of 10. If you wish to make a comment you need to use your log in or create one. Please do comment if you can and quickly. The deadline date does not seem to be noted on the site but it is likely to be two weeks today. If you would rather send your objections via email then the address [email protected] or you can write to
Planning Services
Basildon Borough Council
The Basildon Centre
St Martin’s Square
Basildon, Essex
SS14 1DL