Object
Hockley Area Action Plan - Issues and Options
Representation ID: 9290
Received: 28/04/2009
Respondent: Barratt Eastern Counties
Agent: Kember Loudon Williams Ltd
Redevelopment of most of Eldon Way for alternative uses to employment would undermine the sustainability principles which now guide planning decisions. It would be contrary to PPG4 and PPG13.The loss of employment would result in the loss of a customer base to the town centre. Residents would commute out to work whereas employees spent within the town centre.There is no explanation how the regeneration of this large area will be delivered and over what time and at what cost.
Option 3.1 and 3.2
The redevelopment of most of Eldon Way Industrial Estate for alternative uses is considered to be at odds with the underlying principles of sustainable development. There are no other significant employment areas in Hockley. Both PPG4 and PPG13 note the importance of employment areas close to residential areas and the need to reduce travel by car, particularly over short journeys. The site is therefore highly sustainable. The employment area helps underpin the vitality and viability of the Town Centre and should be retained for that reason. The regeneration area the subject to compulsory purchase should be based on a scale and quantum that is necessary and that can be delivered. It is doubted that the residential uses proposed have a significantly greater use value than the employment site, particularly when the costs of redevelopment (and potential mitigation) is factored in.