Comments on RDC Local Plan Consultation for Hockley Sept 2021
The need for housing is understood but many of the proposals in the Local Plan Consultation and the impact of over-development in Hockley are a major cause for concern, especially without evidence of supporting
infrastructure. This initial consultation informs residents of landowners who have put forward sites for future
development so there is a personal gain aspect here. Rochford District Council has a duty to actively support
residents needs in all communities and influence Government policies.

Consultation Process -The volume of information contained in the consultation was difficult to access and view online. Some links did not work properly. RDC are not reaching residents who have no internet.

Infrastructure - This is a continuing concern to residents due to the volume of recent and proposed development
causing additional pressure on roads, education, social services, health facilities and local employment
opportunities all of which gives a sustainable balance for our communities. The Infrastructure Funding Statement
states all financial and non-financial developer contributions relating to Section 106 conditions should be
completed but this is not the case when larger sites are split up. If developers do not honour the conditions the
money reverts to ECC and RDC who should use this to improve our existing facilities, especially on our roads and cycle paths which are in a pitiful state of repair and will only worsen with further development if funding is not
used where it was intended.

Open Spaces - The value of our open spaces and the issues with climate change has become a priority. People
will continue to reduce travel and split time working from home. Our open spaces are essential for wellbeing,
exercise and relaxation. We are on an overpopulated peninsular surrounded by water with one way in and one
way out and there is a proven risk of flooding. Open space is at a premium. Many proposals would also mean a further reduction in air quality, light pollution and the loss of trees, farming and arable land at a time when food production and supply is becoming a cause for concern. Sites of Special Scientific Interest will also be affected.
The Merryfields Avenue proposal has been previously rejected by residents due to access issues as the land borders on the Nature Reserve. Consideration should be given to incorporating it into the Reserve rather than releasing it for development.

• The plan proposes around 1000 additional houses in Hockley with other developments on land bordering
the parish. This density will have a major detrimental impact on the quality of life for the settlements;
• From 1st August it was announced that empty buildings and brownfield sites should be converted rather than build new. This alternative should be evaluated first;
• Essential green belt is being allowed to erode further which will be impossible to replace;
• Enforcement on unauthorised development is not adequately managed.
• The volume of traffic has increased to an unacceptable level on the B1013 causing noise, smells and
disturbance; Is the traffic survey up to date;
• Proposals for Folly Chase and Church Road will increase density and give further traffic problems on a
busy county access road which has light industry and equestrian centres but does not have footways for
pedestrian safety; vehicles are also subject to dangerous line of sight restrictions. The Folly Chase proposal was previously rejected by residents and supposedly dismissed by RDC but still appears in the Local Plan for development. What are the plans for the Community Centre and public footpaths which must be retained?
• Sheltered accommodation is in danger of being lost at Lime Court and Poplar Court;
• The proposal for development on land at Belchamps is particularly contentious due to the lack of open space for activities available to youngsters and community groups in the Rochford District. The site has been a very valuable well used resource and it is important this is retained for our future generations.
We have to consider some growth in Hockley and surrounding areas but a more measured approach must
be taken on the sites put forward by landowners. The views of our residents on the Consultation should be
acted upon by RDC and unsuitable and overdeveloped areas withdrawn from the Plan.