The East Thurrock Masterplan seeks to establish an exemplary framework for the provision of new employment, homes and community facilities in the area, with a particular focus on urban and landscape design, open space, public and private transport, architecture and the built environment. The Masterplan, commissioned by the Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation, is being prepared by planning, urban design and regeneration consultancy, Urban Practitioners with property consultants Donaldsons, transport consultants Colin Buchanan and port consultants Halcrow. In conjunction with the Development Corporation’s Regeneration Framework and the Spatial Plan, the Masterplan will be used to guide the area’s growth and development until 2021.

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East Thurrock is anchored by the towns of Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham and the village of Fobbing set above the River Thames and the surrounding marshlands. Significant employment areas and industrial uses occupy the banks of the river, and planning is underway for the London Gateway (Shellhaven) development site. The East Thurrock Masterplan site area is bounded by the railway line and the A13 to the north and west, the River Thames to the south and Hole Haven Creek to the east. The area has strong road links to the A13, and the Manorway represents a key link to the towns and the employment uses along the river (including the London Gateway site). Rail service provided by c2c connects the Stanford-le-Hope station to London’s Fenchurch Street station in approximately 45 minutes. The settlements contain significant residential areas with busy town centres and important Conservation Areas. The surrounding Greenbelt land includes sensitive ecological areas, incorporating creeks and marshlands.

The East Thurrock Masterplan is being developed to provide a clear framework for development which will meet the needs of local residents, employees, and local businesses and achieve the Sustainable Communities agenda. The East Thurrock Masterplan will contain a framework to:

• Generate jobs and diversify employment;

• Enhance the potential of the London Gateway Port development at Shellhaven (approved 30 May 2007) as an employment hub of regional and national significance;

• Improve the supply of good quality housing;

• Develop and enhance local skills;

• Improve the transport infrastructure including public transport;

• Improve the design and quality of the public realm; and

• Enhance the cultural life and well-being of East Thurrock.