Essex Coast RAMS

Holmes & Hills respected planning solicitors are now offering a highly specialised service to developers of residential developments in areas of Essex which are subject to the Essex Coast RAMS plan.

What is Essex Coast RAMS?

The Essex Coast Recreational disturbance Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy (Essex Coast RAMS) was created to mitigate the adverse effects of residential development around the Essex coast.

The Essex Coast RAMS requires the developers of all new dwellings near any protected coastal area in Essex to provide a financial contribution to mitigate the impact the occupiers of the dwellings will have on the protected birds and coastal areas in general.

This contribution will be used to provide protection from human interference, such as the inclusion of circular walks, to keep residents and pets away from protected wildlife.

The strategy was created by 12 Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) who are partners in and responsible for delivery of the Essex Coast RAMS plan, alongside Natural England.

Whilst the plan refers to the Essex Coast, this does not preclude perceived inland developments from escaping the need to consider the effects that those residents recreational needs will likely have on the Essex coast.

Why do I need specialist planning advice?

This is an extremely niche part of planning law and so engaging with a specialist planning solicitor at an early stage can reduce the likelihood of your application going to appeal.

In the event that a planning application does reach appeal state, the majority of Inspectors appointed by the Planning Inspectorate to determine appeals in Essex are not familiar with the Essex Coast RAMS. You will therefore need to advise the Inspector what the contribution is for, and how it satisfies one of the reasons your planning application was refused.

Fixed fee Essex Coast RAMS appeal package

Holmes & Hills are offering a fixed fee Essex RAMS package for qualifying clients. This includes a Section 106 Unilateral Undertaking, and an explanatory statement for the Inspector, to ensure that the Essex Coast RAMS requirements for your appeal site are met.