Comment
Town Centre Masterplans
Representation ID: 852
Received: 13/02/2008
Respondent: Rochford Takeaway
I am writing, as a trader in Rochford, to express my grave concerns over the plans to pedestrianise Rochford Square.
Firstly, a considerable number of shoppers who use the town square parking bays, are elderly or disabled. Some of these shoppers are also my customers. The parking bays make it easier for them to use the bank, library and local shops. Alternative parking for disabled shoppers/consumers would need to be very carefully considered.
Secondly, I receive several deliveries during the week from my suppliers. The only access to the business is via the square or West Street which is of course, a narrow one way street which would easily be blocked if a lorry had to unload near it. This must be a similar problem for other business premises on the square. We would need alternative arrangements for unloading supplies safely.
Thirdly, parking is a major consideration for customers who collect food from us in the evening. To park further away and walk to collect food would be a great inconvenience and on dark evenings may make them feel less safe.
I feel that the proposed pedestrianisation would be yet another set back for the small traders based on the square. Without the shops, the atmosphere on the square would be very different. No-one wants to see boarded up premises and 'to let' signs when they visit an area. The shops on the square are part of the attraction for many visitors to Rochford who want a change from the chain strores which feature in surrounding shopping areas.
I welcome any plans which seek to maintain and enhance the character of Rochford, but urge the Council to consider the wider long-term impact that any changes may have.
Re: The proposed plan to pedestrianise the square in Rochford.
I am writing, as a trader in Rochford, to express my grave concerns over the plans to pedestrianise Rochford Square.
Firstly, a considerable number of shoppers who use the town square parking bays, are elderly or disabled. Some of these shoppers are also my customers. The parking bays make it easier for them to use the bank, library and local shops. Alternative parking for disabled shoppers/consumers would need to be very carefully considered.
Secondly, I receive several deliveries during the week from my suppliers. The only access to the business is via the square or West Street which is of course, a narrow one way street which would easily be blocked if a lorry had to unload near it. This must be a similar problem for other business premises on the square. We would need alternative arrangements for unloading supplies safely.
Thirdly, parking is a major consideration for customers who collect food from us in the evening. To park further away and walk to collect food would be a great inconvenience and on dark evenings may make them feel less safe.
I feel that the proposed pedestrianisation would be yet another set back for the small traders based on the square. Without the shops, the atmosphere on the square would be very different. No-one wants to see boarded up premises and 'to let' signs when they visit an area. The shops on the square are part of the attraction for many visitors to Rochford who want a change from the chain strores which feature in surrounding shopping areas.
I welcome any plans which seek to maintain and enhance the character of Rochford, but urge the Council to consider the wider long-term impact that any changes may have.