Major development projects within Essex have an impact across the county, even though they may be located in a relatively small geographical area. Port developments, for example, have an effect on road and rail infrastructure across the county. Housing developments impact on waste management, environment and road use, and require additional resources for schools, healthcare and other services.

Essex County Council, through the Spatial Planning team, takes a proactive view on major developments, and represents the interests of the county during the consultation process. The council seeks to influence major infrastructure projects at all stages, in order to ensure that development is in the best interest of the county, and that all major projects are considered in terms of their impact on the surrounding infrastructure and environment.

Major development projects also include those parts of the county identified as sub-regional growth areas in the East of England. These are areas where there are proposals for significant housing, economic and infrastructure development over the medium to long term. At present, there are three sub-regional growth areas that impact on Essex.