Response to the Hockley Area Action Plan - November 2010

Hawkwell Parish Council Members, having considered the options of the amended plan, support Option One which allows for optimal intervention and best preserves the character of Hockley. Public realm improvements, green areas and trees, also improved access and parking would benefit the village. Employment and Leisure would be maintained on Eldon Way Industrial Estate. We see no benefit of relocation of the supermarket away from the shopping frontage.

To address the provision of housing in Hockley town centre the best option would be to provide housing north of the railway station on part of the car park in Plumberow Avenue provided parking is replaced south of the railway on the disused land next to the Foundry site. This would make use of a brownfield site and save the green belt land elsewhere.

Traffic Improvements.

The option for improving traffic flow at the junction of Main Road, Spa Road, Southend Road for incorporating a two lane approach to the three main principal arms of the roundabout would be of benefit and would negate the need for traffic lights.

Funding.

We believe the suggestion that the Council could borrow money to fund improvements on the assumption that more business rates would be generated and the Government would release such funds is a dangerous road to go down.