1.1 - The big picture

Showing comments and forms 1 to 30 of 794

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28360

Received: 11/12/2012

Respondent: Hockley Residents Association

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

The council has deliberately incorrectly posted residents' responses and mislead residents as gto why.

Full text:

Manipulation of consultation results

This section relates to a separate formal complaint made in 2011. It is included to demonstrate the incredible (and frankly rather bizarre) lengths the council will go to manipulate this consultation and also the way in which it repeatedly covers up its actions.

In February 2011, in the DPD Allocations consultation, the council's proposals for Hockley were unanimously rejected by all 496 respondents (many of whom used a standard 'pro-forma' form of response).

Bizarrely, the council then manipulated the consultation by diverting 460 legitimate responses to a section other than that for which were clearly marked and properly intended ("TC7/9"). The council correctly recorded the comments under Section TC7 but, for unknown reasons, posted the comments to Section E10 instead of the specified TC9. This was despite the very clear heading and the fact that Section E10 was not mentioned anywhere in the objections.

Their action denied those 460 people (including myself) their democratic right to have their valid objection recorded as intended. They repeatedly refused to correct this and gave numerous, different, conflicting reasons for its actions. None of the responses remotely suggests an appropriate reason for posting the comments to section E10 and resulted in the HRA making a formal complaint.

The council eventually acknowledged overriding residents' clear instructions by posting objections to a different section, but still have not accepted that their policy was inappropriate. The varying and contradictory explanations clearly demonstrated a corporate 'cover-up' mentality, further discouraging any confidence in the consultation process. The final review undertaken by the then RDC Deputy Chief Executive, Graham Woolhouse (GW), appears to have been very superficial and another 'whitewash'.

It is clear that RDC has been repeatedly abusing the consultation process by ignoring and/or manipulating consultation results during the wider Core Strategy process

The Council's responses:
1. "Each representation can only be placed against one policy / section of the document to which it is made against (although a single response may contain multiple representations)." (Sam Hollingworth (SH), Project Leader, 11 August 2010).

Comment: This was totally inappropriate as the responses had already been registered twice!
* GW's response makes no reference to the clear designation expressed by all 460 respondents and suggests he did not even examine the original submissions (likewise for Mr Scrutton's response).
* GW also states "Nevertheless, I must reiterate that the respondents have the opportunity to request that the way in which their representation has been registered be changed." This seems oblivious to the fact that this is exactly what I was complaining about i.e my request to change had been repeatedly refused! So, in essence, his response totally agrees with my complaint whilst still rejecting it!


2. "all the comments received are shown; all are registered against options / sections chosen by respondents (including your representation on the Hockley town centre boundary which you yourself registered against Option TC7) or, if not specified, comments were registered against what was felt to be the most appropriate option / section" (Sam Hollingworth (SH), Project Leader, 11 August 2010).
Comment: This was totally inappropriate as the designated option was clearly specified!

3. "when a resident submits comments in this way, they must choose which section / policy / option their comment is to be registered against. However, if representations are submitted by post or email and the response gives no information about the specific sections or policies to which the representation is intended to apply, then Officers inputting the information to JDi must decide which policy / option / section they are registered against" Shaun Scrutton, Head of Planning 25 August 2010.
Comment: This was totally inappropriate as, again, the designated option was clearly specified!

1. "In terms of determining how responses are registered on the system, in cases where responses are received in a form other than through our online system, Officers must make a judgement as to which section of the document they best relate to" (Graham Woolhouse, Deputy Chief Executive 27 August 2010)
Comment: Confirms residents' wishes are not material but at least this response appears to accurately represent the way the council actually views consultations!

2. "I could see no particular reason why a generic response could not be posted to multiple locations just so long as the comments contained therein were relevant to that section. It transpired that the software that the council had at its disposal did not facilitate this concept; I then encouraged our officers to discuss this dilemma with the providers of the software and a method of cloning was subsequently devised." Cllr Keith Hudson 8 September 2010. Comment: This response suggests that the problem was a software issue and contradicts the officers' assertions that they were following standard procedures. We believe that this is probably the closest to the truth.

3. "Whilst you may personally disagree with the decision to register the text in question against Option E10, the Council is of the view that - having regard to the content of the representation and that of Option E10 - such action was entirely appropriate."
The final review undertaken by the then RDC Deputy Chief Executive, Graham Woolhouse (GW), appears to have been very superficial and another 'whitewash' because: Clearly he finds nothing wrong with this overriding of clear, specific and appropriate instructions from respondents.
Comment:
* GW's response makes no reference to the clear designation expressed by all 460 respondents and suggests he did not even examine the original submissions (likewise for Mr Scrutton's response).
* GW also states "Nevertheless, I must reiterate that the respondents have the opportunity to request that the way in which their representation has been registered be changed." This seems oblivious to the fact that this is exactly what I was complaining about i.e my request to change had been repeatedly refused! So, in essence, his response totally agrees with my complaint whilst still rejecting it!

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28361

Received: 11/12/2012

Respondent: Hockley Residents Association

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

RDC did not consider the responses to the previous round before determining the way forward i.e. they did not consult properly

Full text:

Failure to consult properly

No analysis was initially undertaken of the public's responses to the previous (i.e. second) HAAP consultation. Why?

It is also contrary to the council's Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) (see
http://fs-drupal-rochford.s3.amazonaws.com/pdf/planning_sci_statement_comm_invol.pdf) which states the council will provide "feedback as to how people's views have been taken into account and have influenced the decision making process".

The council has admitted that they haven't taken the consultation into account before deciding the way forward. (Email from Natalie Hayward, Senior Planner, 280612 - "We have not produced an analysis of the consultation as yet, and as such this is not available. However, the full responses to the consultation can be found on our website at the following link: http://rochford.jdi-consult.net/ldf/readdoc.php?docid=173)".

The Council subsequently published a 'summary' of the last consultation. See:
http://www.rochford.gov.uk/sites/rochford.gov.uk/files/documents/files/planning_HAAP_responses_0.pdf
Its styled a "Summary of Responses" but is simply 31 pages of extracts from responses with no analysis or even an indication of volumes. So no idea if one person makes 100 comments or 100 people make one comment. Useless!

The report goes someway towards acknowledging this and starts:
"A detailed analysis of the responses will be prepared and published later in the plan-making process as part of the evidence base supporting the pre-application version of the plan."

The report is not dated(!). We asked the council for both its date and when the next stage will be available (remembering that the contract required the next stage report to be completed by September 2012). No response.

Whilst the report is undated, and the council has avoided giving us a production date, but it was posted on their web-site on 2 July 2012. This was just 4 days after the council (Natalie Hayward, 28 June) told us no analysis had been prepared. It was after the Invitation to Tender was issued in June and it was not mentioned in the Council's response dated 1 August to my formal complaint.

By itself, the summary is a meaningless collection of comments and suggests a knee-jerk reaction to my enquiry. However, it does confirm the fact that the council proceeded to the next stage of the HAAP without analysing the previous responses, contravening its SCI and suggests it was conscious of its error.

Despite the lack of analysis, it is clear that the responses are overwhelmingly against major redevelopment and want to retain Hockley's village character.

It should also be remembered that whilst the first set of proposals was sub-standard, the responses were never-the-less clearly also against major redevelopment and council has also seen the results of an impartial survey undertaken in 2009 which also shows that the majority of residents are clearly against major redevelopment.

There is a clear, consistent trail of evidence that the majority of residents want to retain the character of Hockley and keep it as a village. They are against major redevelopment but the council has simply ignored these findings and has not demonstrated that they have taken them in to account as required in their SCI. Although they have (unintentionally) fulfilled another part of the SCI - "Cynicism towards the process - feeling that their views will not be acted upon"!

It is clear that RDC did not consider the earlier consultation before proceeding to the next stage.

The Council's response: It stated: "Consultation and community involvement was undertaken throughout the production of the Core Strategy. There has been considerable community involvement in the Hockley Area Action Plan and there will be further engagement before it is finalised. The responses to the consultation can be viewed online."

Comment: Avoids the issue - a 'non-response'.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28362

Received: 11/12/2012

Respondent: Hockley Residents Association

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

The council inappropriately pre-determined the outcome of the HAAP, stating the Core Strategy authorised this, despite 2 specific council resolutions to the contrary.

Full text:

Under the Freedom of Information Act (FoI), residents obtained a copy of the council's contract for the current stage of the HAAP and were dismayed to discover that the council had already secretly predetermined their requirements from the study.

"Contract 2944, Consultancy - Pre-submission drafts of the Hockley, Rayleigh & Rochford Area Action Plans (AAP's)" details the council's requirements for the next stage of the three area action plans.
(See http://hockleyresidents.co.uk/Other/ (HAAP Contract 2944, Consultancy)

Page 10 states (inter alia): " The pre-submission HAAP must conform to the Rochford District Core Strategy (2011), with particular regard had to Policy RTC6. In summary, consultants will be expected to produce a plan which will deliver .................:
 Redevelopment of Eldon Way / Foundry Industrial Estate for a variety of uses more appropriate for a town centre location, including residential, commercial, employment and leisure.
 A public space within a defined centre".
Thus there are clearly pre-defined, major deliverables - deliverables which are contrary to the clearly expressed views in the previous two consultations and in responses to Core Strategy consultations. The council has ignored all these consultations. This is confirmed by the absence of any analysis of the last HAAP consultation (see 3.4.1 below), despite the volume of responses, making a mockery of the consultation process.

It should also be noted that, in this case, the council has in fact 'pre-determined' the outcome, which is contrary to what it told us when we asked it to "highlight" highways issues. The council cannot have this both ways!

The council has confirmed that the decision (to prescribe a solution) was based on the concept of redeveloping the industrial area (Eldon Way/Foundry Estate), as set out in the Rochford District Core Strategy, and that the details of the redevelopment are being explored through the preparation of the Hockley Area Action Plan.

It is a core part of the council's position that the Core Strategy authorises them to define the outline requirements. Residents strongly argue that this is not correct. This was made clear in two specific amendments to the Core Strategy at the council's Full Council & ECM respectively on:
 9 September 2009 when it passed a revision, relaxing the existing proposals stating: ""Replace ..."Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate will be redeveloped for housing" because "....There is concern that the initial wording could be interpreted as being overly definitive in terms of the redevelopment of employment sites"
 14 October 2010, changing policy H1, to state "In the case of Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate, the nature of any redevelopment will be determined through the HAAP".


The council argues that their specific requirements were approved in its Core Strategy but this is not correct. This was made clear in two specific amendments to the Core Strategy Submission document, approved by votes at the full council's meetings on:
 9 September 2009 - when it passed a revision, relaxing the existing proposals at that time: "Replace ..."Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate will be redeveloped for housing" ....There is concern that the initial wording could be interpreted as being overly definitive."
 14 October 2010 - changing policy EC3, to state "In the case of Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate, the nature of any redevelopment will be determined through the HAAP".

The fact that the council has specially voted twice, a year apart, to make two specific changes to the Core Strategy, to make clear that the HAAP will determine the future for this area, totally undermines its current assertions that the exact opposite is true.
The fact that the full council has voted twice, a year apart, to make two specific changes to the Core Strategy, to make clear that the HAAP will determine the future for this area, totally undermines its current assertions that the exact opposite is true.

What the Core Strategy actually states:
(http://fs-drupal-rochford.s3.amazonaws.com/pdf/planning_cs_core_strategy_submission_document.pdf)

Page 135, 12.39 & 12.40
"Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate in particular, has been identified as a potential opportunity site given its location in proximity to Hockley centre and the train station, and the potential for industrial uses to be accommodated in more appropriate locations within the District, as examined within the Economic Development section of the Core Strategy.

The Council will explore the above issues and potential in detail through the development of an Area Action Plan for Hockley centre".

and (Page 57, Appendix H1):
"Contribution towards Hockley centre regeneration to be determined through development of Area Action Plan, including:
− Public transport infrastructure improvements and service enhancements
− Healthcare facilities
− Public open space - landscaping and street furniture
− Pedestrian links between centre and train station, linking residential development to both
− Early years and childcare facility
− Youth and community facilities
− Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements, including Spa Road/Main Road junction improvement"

The wording of the contract with the consultants for the 3rd review actually uses the same wording as the 090909 Core Strategy Submission document, ignoring the two specific amendments passed at two separate full council meetings. So it is very clear that HAAP should determine the way forward, not the CS as the council stated. This means the decision to prescribe redevelopment was based on an incorrect basis and is fatally flawed.

The Council's response: The council stated "Policy RTC6 of the Core Strategy provides the policy for redevelopment to be explored through the area action plan it does not specify the details, scale, uses or specific sites. It will be for the Hockley Area Action Plan to determine such issues, as well as the detailed policies relating to the rest of Hockley centre."

Comment: This endorses my view and is the one part of the council's response that is correct but it is not what the council has actually implemented. As the ECM specific amendments make clear, the HAAP should determine the actions not the other way round as specified in the contract with the consultants.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28363

Received: 11/12/2012

Respondent: Hockley Residents Association

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

There is considerable factual evidence to show that the council has extensively discriminated, manipulated and covered up their approach to the HAAP


It appears intent with implementing its own preferred solution at all costs. The only outstanding question is "Why"?

Full text:

There is considerable factual evidence to show that the council has:
 acted unethically in ignoring previous consultations and secretly prescribing the way forward, creating a discriminatory two-tier process;
 misled residents as to what can and cannot be included in the HAAP;
 misrepresented, and ignored, the both the views residents and of its own experts;
 Whitewashed' residents complaints and undertaken knee-jerk cover-ups.

It appears intent with implementing its own preferred solution at all costs. The only outstanding question is "Why"?

Accordingly, the current HAAP review needs to be aborted and restarted in due course on a proper grounding, which takes proper account of the views of experts and residents.

The council lacks transparency and integrity. It is therefore also essential that a thorough review is required to ensure that RDC's ongoing policies and practices are fully appropriate, transparent and the public can have confidence in them.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28391

Received: 04/01/2013

Respondent: Rochford District Residents

Legally compliant? Yes

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

The HAAP is a proposal for strategic development which according to ECC must be accompanied by a transport assessment, the scope of which must be agreed with the Highway Authority.

The main concern is the impact on traffic and parking.

Highway issues are integral to the overall success of the project and must be addressed at this stage as guided by the advice obtained from ECC.

The Planning Inspector is asked to reject the HAAP and return this to Council with the requirement to await the formal and reported TEMPRO assessment.

Full text:

Anyone who either shops or drives in Hockley should be concerned with the District Council's recently published proposals for regenerating the centre of Hockley, the HAAP.

There is the likelihood of a new "medium" sized supermarket of up to 3,000 sq metres (that nearly six times the size of the existing Co-op). There are concerns that a supermarket this large will overwhelm the existing shops and result in less competition and, in turn, higher prices. It is also contrary to the Council's own experts, who recommended that Hockley should be redeveloped along small, "boutique" lines.

There are also plans for a public square, with an evening culture of bars and cafes, and around 100 new homes. Clearly this will all change the character of the 'village' against the wishes of residents.

This makes 150 new dwellings in Hockley made up of 50 recently given planning permission in West Hockley and the 100 in the Centre. So with the 976 dwellings already given planning permission in the Central part of the District the additional 100 takes the total well over 1000 (1026). There are 326 new dwellings just for Hockley and Hawkwell.

We cannot see how the overall highways infrastructure can cope without major improvements.

However, the main concern is the impact on traffic and parking. The Council has repeatedly promised that highway considerations would be included in the Hockley Area Action Plan (HAAP) but, in a the last minute U-turn, did not do so arguing that it could save money leaving it to a planning application to pay for this.

But

Essex County Council, advises that "On a local level every strategic development proposal is accompanied by a transport assessment, the scope of which must be agreed with the Highway Authority. This assessment considers the impact the proposed development will have on the highway network and includes industry standard forecasted growth (TEMPRO) to ensure a comprehensive approach that accounts for present traffic conditions (including any new and committed development) and future traffic growth."

The Council "considers" that the Spa Roundabout could be improved through the provision of 3 slip lanes and a wider pavement beside the Spa pub. There is no evidence to support this view or whether it is even physically viable. The Council has only allowed £2-300K for the cost of this work, which looks optimistic given that they allowed up to £2M for the same work in the Council's costings for the Core Strategy.

The Council also proposes to move the Hockley Station car park in to Eldon Way, and build more houses on the existing car park. Whilst this has some attractions, it would reverse much of the traffic flows under the railway bridge and, again, the Council say they have not modelled the impact. So it is not known how this will change traffic flows through Hockley, including extra volumes from all the new housing in the West of the District.

Parking also looks very tight with just 211 places proposed for shopping and 72 for the station and requires assessment. The Rail Station Car Park is often almost full with 159 places so how is just 72 sustainable?

The Council states that to be Sound the plan (HAAP) should be prepared based on a strategy which seeks to meet objectively assessed development and infrastructure requirements, including unmet requirements from neighbouring authorities where it is reasonable to do so and consistent with achieving sustainable development.

As stated earlier Essex County Council, advises "On a local level every strategic development proposal is accompanied by a transport assessment, the scope of which must be agreed with the Highway Authority. This assessment considers the impact the proposed development will have on the highway network and includes industry standard forecasted growth (TEMPRO) to ensure a comprehensive approach that accounts for present traffic conditions (including any new and committed development) and future traffic growth."

As the HAAP is a proposal for strategic development then according to ECC this must be accompanied by a transport assessment, the scope of which must be agreed with the Highway Authority. This assessment considers the impact the proposed development will have on the highway network and includes industry standard forecasted growth (TEMPRO) to ensure a comprehensive approach that accounts for present traffic conditions (including any new and committed development) and future traffic growth.

1) the existing need to deal with the bottleneck at the Spa mini-roundabout will no doubt be exaggerated in the future by extra traffic volume from the increased number of retail shoppers from the District as a whole as well as from the 1000 new houses to be built in the surrounding area which is the clearly identfiable central part of the District.

2) a potential new problem s created by the Council's recent decision to move the Hockley Rail Station car park to the Eldon Way site, thus reversing existing flows under the narrow railway bridge, which often requires one-way traffic flows when a bus, or large vehicle, is trying to pass through the bridge.

If the necessary entrepreneurial, risk taking developer(s) were reluctant to meet the indicated financial costs, the whole HAAP could fail to be taken forward and regeneration will be impacted. Or, possibly the options of moving the car park may need to be discarded, restricting the scope of any changes rendering the scheme non viable.

Deferring the transport assessments also effectively suggests that the whole redevelopment will need to be undertaken as a single project. Otherwise different developers addressing parts of the scheme could come up with different, contradictory or more likely only partial highways proposals which together do not address the whole of the highway improvement needs.

Based on the financial information in the Council's viability assessment, a single project would be an extremely large undertaking which would increase the risks to the developer and if there were a failure then the whole regeneration could fail.

Highway issues are integral to the overall success of the project and such be addressed at this stage as guided by the advice obtained from ECC.

The Planning Inspector is asked to reject the HAAP and return this to Council with the requirement to await the formal and reported assessment of the strategic effect of such proposed strategic development on Highways infrastructure in Rochford District by ECC.

Support

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28396

Received: 31/12/2012

Respondent: Anglian Water Services Ltd

Representation Summary:

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the submission document. However, I have no issues to raise or comments to make other than those previously made in earlier consultations.

Full text:

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the submission document. However, I have no issues to raise or comments to make other than those previously made in earlier consultations.

Support

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28426

Received: 09/01/2013

Respondent: Basildon Borough Council

Representation Summary:

Basildon Borough Council has no comments to make on the Hockley Area Action Plan.

Full text:

Basildon Borough Council has no comments to make on the Hockley Area Action Plan.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28491

Received: 12/01/2013

Respondent: Mrs L Laing

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28495

Received: 12/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Will Laing

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28499

Received: 13/01/2013

Respondent: Mrs Kerry Mason

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28503

Received: 13/01/2013

Respondent: Mr George Mason

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28507

Received: 13/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Steve Tong

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28521

Received: 19/01/2013

Respondent: Mr A James

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

Producing a heavy weight document that prevented printing and general distribution and expecting the public to fill in a complicated online response for a third time is an unfair method of consultation. I believe the public now have consultation fatigue and will not respond in sufficient numbers.

Full text:

Producing a heavy weight document that prevented printing and general distribution and expecting the public to fill in a complicated online response for a third time is an unfair method of consultation. I believe the public now have consultation fatigue and will not respond in sufficient numbers.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28541

Received: 20/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Graeme Dell

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

The Proposals as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable to grand and not wanted.

Full text:

There were process failures in that Rochford council failed to provide a proper consultation process :-

Rochford Council would appear to be working to an agenda based around the requirements of a Supermarket business and are in denial regarding the expressed wishes of the local residents. This is to the extent that council have appeared to consistently manipulated the consultations process, producing misleading information and consequently overriding the democratic process, with the aim of implementing the own predetermined policies.
This is supported as such by:
1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rationale for redevelopment) and contradiction. There is no obvious evidence or reasoning that Hockley has great retail potential and a 'Retail and Leisure Study' document actually states that Hockley has limited potential. recommending a small, "boutique" approach. as opposed to the councils support for a large supermarket and ignoring the fact that Hockley already has two supermarkets already.


The council stated that the HAAP must conform to the Core Strategy but passed two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).
1.2 It Imposed a two-tier consultation process which discriminated against the Hockley area and it's electorate by:
* restricting public consultation and only arranging a short notice an exhibition which used previously publicly consulted material from 2010 material, which the council acknowledged was not even the current thinking. And for reasons unknown but do raise issue with the council's motives, this exhibition was not advertised until halfway through
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 The Council appear to have total mislead residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, has not included them . Given the significant traffic issues that Hockley has with traffic flows from outside the area, this would appear to be an act of gross negligent and a missed opportunity to address most resident's major concern.
2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"
It is difficult to see how this plan is viable and it does appear to be unsound in a number of areas.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28548

Received: 20/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Peter Symes

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

No foundation for the suggestions outlined in para 2 benefitting Hockley. No transport assessment has been undertaken, more houses are envisaged in Hockley Hawkwell and Rochford, all of which are likely to uses the B1013 as an access route - the busiest B-road in Essex. Additionally the HAAP is based only upon central Hockley because of the "stability of the surrounding residential area" - however this statement of RDC has been thrown into confusion by the recent announcement that Bullwood Hall prison is to close, leaving a site the other side of Hockley ripe for development with no plan attached.

Full text:

No foundation for the suggestions outlined in para 2 benefitting Hockley. No transport assessment has been undertaken, more houses are envisaged in Hockley Hawkwell and Rochford, all of which are likely to uses the B1013 as an access route - the busiest B-road in Essex. Additionally the HAAP is based only upon central Hockley because of the "stability of the surrounding residential area" - however this statement of RDC has been thrown into confusion by the recent announcement that Bullwood Hall prison is to close, leaving a site the other side of Hockley ripe for development with no plan attached.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28635

Received: 13/01/2013

Respondent: Mrs Christine Thomas

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28641

Received: 15/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Christopher Dunnage

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28669

Received: 23/01/2013

Respondent: Mrs Brooks

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

This plan shows no balance at all, but a grand attempt to turn Hockley into a town. The reference to quality is misleading as it appears to be quantity that we will be on the receiving end of. As for connectivity the number of parking spaces in the railway car park are to be drastically reduced. The roads in the area are already hugely congested.

Full text:

This plan shows no balance at all, but a grand attempt to turn Hockley into a town. The reference to quality is misleading as it appears to be quantity that we will be on the receiving end of. As for connectivity the number of parking spaces in the railway car park are to be drastically reduced. The roads in the area are already hugely congested.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28696

Received: 15/01/2013

Respondent: Mr A D Newman

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

4.1 The manner in which R.D.C. has attempted to keep the Residents of Hockley informed has been changed and manipulated a number of times.
Residents have been informed that a Traffic Assessment would be carried out but this is untrue despite R.D.C. carrying out this exercise at Rochford and Rayleigh, co-partners in the overall plan. Surely illegal.
Hockley has been discriminated against by having less public consultation times than our "partners" Rochford and Rayleigh. "Not Legal"

Full text:

4.1 The manner in which R.D.C. has attempted to keep the Residents of Hockley informed has been changed and manipulated a number of times.
Residents have been informed that a Traffic Assessment would be carried out but this is untrue despite R.D.C. carrying out this exercise at Rochford and Rayleigh, co-partners in the overall plan. Surely illegal.
Hockley has been discriminated against by having less public consultation times than our "partners" Rochford and Rayleigh. "Not Legal"

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28705

Received: 15/01/2013

Respondent: Mr J Butcher

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28745

Received: 24/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Brian Guyett

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

The HAAP proposals are 'a house of straw' with no foundations and absolutely no evidence to support the proposals. The council has ignored previous consultations and introduced changes which have not been consulted upon. It has also avoided answering direct Freedom of Information questions and 3 questions have been referred for Review and still outstanding. The proposals are not workable, Key highways issues have not been addressed, and the financials incomplete. The inspector is requested to reject these proposals

Full text:

The HAAP proposals are 'a house of straw' with no foundations and no evidence to support the proposals. The council has also avoided answering direct Freedom of Information questions and 3 questions have been referred for Review and still outstanding.

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published. RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary on 9 Sept and 14 Oct 2010.

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using "not current thinking" 2010 material which had previously been consulted on
pre-defining the outcome;
limiting the time available
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. A FoI response showed that Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied).

1.3 The council have maintained since the start of the HAAP (and also stated in the Core Strategy) that Highways would be included but went back on this commitment at the very last stage and excluded them. Indeed, RDC told ECC as recently as 2 July 2012 that "Transport assessments will be undertaken as an integral part of the development of the options for the three town centres.". Why has the council done a last minute U-turn? Residents have been mislead as to the council's intentions in this regard.

1.4 The HAAP is a proposal for strategic development which according to ECC must be accompanied by a transport assessment, the scope of which must be agreed with the Highway Authority. The main concern is the impact on traffic and parking. Highway issues are integral to the overall success of the project and must be addressed at this stage as guided by the advice obtained from ECC.

1.5 Freedom of Information requests have shown that the council have no evidence to support their views on Highways. Indeed the only document the council can produce on Highways is an email dated 4 September 2012 from Trenton Williams at Alan Baxter & Associates (the council's consultants) stationg "In Hockley, noted limited opportunities for significant capacity increases to Spa Road roundabout due to physical constraints".

1.6 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.7 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (55%). No evidence on the impact. Where will other commuters park - local estates?

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)

No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy. Essex County Council, advises that "On a local level every strategic development proposal is accompanied by a transport assessment, the scope of which must be agreed with the Highway Authority. This assessment considers the impact the proposed development will have on the highway network and includes industry standard forecasted growth (TEMPRO) to ensure a comprehensive approach that accounts for present traffic conditions (including any new and committed development) and future traffic growth."
No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied!!
the existing need to deal with the bottleneck at the Spa mini-roundabout will no doubt be exaggerated in the future by extra traffic volume from the increased number of retail shoppers from the District as a whole as well as from the 1000 new houses to be built in the surrounding area which is the clearly identfiable central part of the District.
Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations
Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessedProposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Assessment is unsound.
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal and that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

If the necessary entrepreneurial, risk taking developer(s) were reluctant to meet the indicated financial costs, the whole HAAP could fail to be taken forward and regeneration will be impacted. Or, possibly the options of moving the car park may need to be discarded, restricting the scope of any changes rendering the scheme non viable.

Deferring the transport assessments also effectively suggests that the whole redevelopment will need to be undertaken as a single project. Otherwise different developers addressing parts of the scheme could come up with different, contradictory or more likely, only partial highways proposals which together do not address the whole of the highway improvement needs.

Based on the financial information in the Council's viability assessment, a single project would be an extremely large undertaking which would increase the risks to the developer and if there were a failure then the whole regeneration could fail

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28759

Received: 24/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Philip Stride

Legally compliant? Yes

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

This proposed development will ruin the present village atmosphere.

Full text:

This proposed development will ruin the present village atmosphere.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28847

Received: 18/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Derek Baker

Legally compliant? Not specified

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

I can not see that this provides the existing residents of Hockley with any benefits, namely:

1) Demolishing the existing industrial estate will loose greatly needed local jobs. Having spent most of 2012 with two of us in this household unemployed (one still is) I know how difficult it is to find any local work.

2) No consideration provided within the proposal to provide local needed amenities such as Doctors, Dentists and school places for all the new residents you expect to live in the new development. It's already hard enough to get a Doctors appointment in Hockley at the moment without adding new residents.

3) No consideration provided within the proposal to the impact that this will have on the local area and wider local area once combined with the other large residential proposals currently proposed for Hawkwell and the Hawkwell end of Hall Road Rochford. In particular, again the impact these combined proposals will have upon doctors, dentists, schools and the parking that will now be needed at Hockley Railway Station for those commuters who move into the new Hawkwell development.

4) Increased traffic along Southend Road and Great Eastern Road Hockley which are already struggling during peak times.

Full text:

I can not see that this provides the existing residents of Hockley with any benefits, namely:

1) Demolishing the existing industrial estate will loose greatly needed local jobs. Having spent most of 2012 with two of us in this household unemployed (one still is) I know how difficult it is to find any local work.

2) No consideration provided within the proposal to provide local needed amenities such as Doctors, Dentists and school places for all the new residents you expect to live in the new development. It's already hard enough to get a Doctors appointment in Hockley at the moment without adding new residents.

3) No consideration provided within the proposal to the impact that this will have on the local area and wider local area once combined with the other large residential proposals currently proposed for Hawkwell and the Hawkwell end of Hall Road Rochford. In particular, again the impact these combined proposals will have upon doctors, dentists, schools and the parking that will now be needed at Hockley Railway Station for those commuters who move into the new Hawkwell development.

4) Increased traffic along Southend Road and Great Eastern Road Hockley which are already struggling during peak times.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28850

Received: 15/01/2013

Respondent: Miss Nicola Pullen

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28858

Received: 15/01/2013

Respondent: KEN POTTER

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process which discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised until halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process which discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised until halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians. (This in addition to specific objection raised about the Spa Roundabout under ref 28390).

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28870

Received: 21/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Roy Munro

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) There have been Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) There have been Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28874

Received: 21/01/2013

Respondent: Hawkwell Residents Association

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1.1 The big picture

Comments: Producing a heavy weight document that prevented printing and general distribution and expecting the public to fill in a complicated online response for a third time is an unfair method of consultation. We believe the public now have consultation fatigue and will not respond in sufficient numbers.

Full text:

Hawkwell Residents Association Response to the RDC HAAP 2013

1.1 The big picture

Comments: Producing a heavy weight document that prevented printing and general distribution and expecting the public to fill in a complicated online response for a third time is an unfair method of consultation. We believe the public now have consultation fatigue and will not respond in sufficient numbers.

Comments: Explain and include your residents in any decisions. Councils are supposed to foster localism but the Parish Plan produced by the residents has been completely ignored.

1.2 Working with our community

Comments: This is a lie; the Parish Plan produced by the residents has almost been completely ignored. Consultation has been minimal to avoid the confrontations that were produced by HAAP1. All RDC want to do is finance this plan by letting a developer build a large (up to 3,000 sq m) supermarket that residents do not want or need in the middle of our village. A large supermarket development will also cause the demise of our local shops causing them to struggle as they do in Woodham Ferrers. This will cause unacceptable amounts of traffic on the already overloaded B1013 bring traffic in our village to a complete standstill making it almost impossible to get in and out of Hockley village by car.

Changes: Keep changes to a minimum as requested by the majority in the Hockley Parish Plan produced by the Hockley residents.

1.3 Working with our partners

Comments: We do not know who these partners are but they certainly are not the Hawkwell or Hockley Residents Associations and as for localism RDC do not understand the meaning of the word. Very little attempt has been made to include the local residents in this process.

Changes: Include local people at all stages and get something that the majority agree with thereby avoiding confrontations.

1.4 The AAP area

Comments: At present there are fewer empty shops (one out of around 40 to 50) in Hockley than any other village we know. The plan to build a large supermarket will make that situation far worse. We currently have 3 small to medium size supermarkets in Hockley village and we believe that is enough for local residents.

Changes: If additional shops are necessary Hockley can take it but don't include a large supermarket.

2.1 The Hockley Context

Comments: The Hockley Parish Plan produced by the residents has almost been completely ignored.

Changes: Include local people at all stages of the process.

2.2 Place profile

Comments: The Hockley Parish Plan produced by the residents has almost been completely ignored.

Changes: Include local people at all stages of the process.

2.3 Policy context

Comments: There are a number of proposed changes on parking, planting trees, improvements to the spa roundabout etc and some of these items are desirable but they are completely reliant on finance from the developer. The only way this will be achieved is by letting a developer build a large supermarket in Hockley that residents do not want and do not need. We believe this is not legal as this would be against localism and the published Hockley Parish Plan.

Changes: Work within the Hockley Parish Plan and include local people at all stages of the process.



2.4 Retail issues

Comments: In 2008 Hockley only had one supermarket and now has three. We believe the current supermarkets do not get a massive turnover during weekdays and do not need the competition of a large supermarket on their door step. A large supermarket would probably mean the demise of one or two of the current supermarkets we have reducing the choice residents have once again. We do not believe a developer of a large supermarket would finance all the improvement measures already stated plus enhancing the current shops. We believe that what RDC is proposing is not possible and therefore not legal.

Changes: Include local people at all stages of the process.

2.5 Employment issues

Comments: RDC are using a study that is 5 years old and we believe this is unacceptable and not legal.

Changes: Cary out an up to date study.

2.6 Land ownership context

Comments: It is not stated but we believe the term Hockley Trading Estate includes Eldon Way and The Foundry Estate. We are informed that these areas are not owned by the same owner. RDC is stating that the Hockley Trading Estate is largely owned by a single land owner, which we believe is not true and therefore not sound.

Changes: Statement made is too vague and should be investigated before publishing them.

2.7 Property market overview

Comments: It would appear that by referring to the 2007 credit crunch some 6 years ago, that most of the information stated is out of date. Since that time we have had two additional supermarkets in our village. Eldon Way is holding up very well despite having the blight of the HAAP hanging over it. RDC have stated that Eldon Way offers a good opportunity for residential development. As most of the units are occupied this is not true and therefore not sound. The main area that has empty units is local to the currents shops and could form a natural extension to the shopping area. We do not believe there is any demand for offices, there are plenty of empty ones already.

Changes: Use up to date information not statements that are no longer true.

2.8 Movement issues

Comments: There is no mention of improvements to the Spa Road junctions with Eldon Way and the Foundry Estate that would be required if additional use was made of these areas, only enhanced crossing facilities is mentioned. Some of these improvements are worthy but removing guardrail along Spa Road is crazy, as the local police meetings are requesting additional guardrail outside Sainsbury's. This highlights how out of touch RDC are with local requirements making these statements unsound.

Changes: Use up to date information not statements that are no longer true.

2.9 The Sustainability Appraisal

Comments: There are proposals to make changes to the Spa roundabout but no mention of improvements to the Spa Road junctions with Eldon Way and the Foundry Estate that would be required if additional use was made of these areas. The appraisal is not comprehensive enough and in our opinion therefore not sound.

Changes: Make a more comprehensive appraisal.

3.1 What makes for a sustainable Hockley?

Comments: Hockley may need additional housing but not at the expense of a thriving trading centre. The current trading centre is sustainable as the majority of its work force live in our village and can walk to work. Moving the trading centre out of our village would result in additional travel to work and hence make this proposal unsustainable and unsound.

Changes: Leave the trading centre where it is.



3.2 Vision & objectives

Comments: 1) Hockley now has three supermarkets competing with each other, which means most food shopping can be carried out locally. 2) In our opinion Hockley does not need a new public space. 4) We do not see how this is compatible with building an additional supermarket and housing in this area, which makes this statement unsound.

Changes: Leave the trading centre where it is. This area is unsuitable for housing accept for some flat above shops near the current shopping area.

3.3 Arriving at a framework

Comments: It is very difficult to make a full assessment as these proposals are too vague but we do not believe a large supermarket is required in our village (which is not a town centre), as we currently have three. If the Foundry Business Park has been upgraded we had not noticed it as it still looks a complete mess. If RDC want to keep the current trading area we fail to see where new housing would be built as this is not made clear in these proposals. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Clarify the proposals.

Policy 1 - Hockley Area Action Plan framework

Comments: As we have stated in 3.3, it is very difficult to make a full assessment as these proposals are too vague. The drawing provided is unclear and we believe has many errors on it. Some of the parking is show in Eldon Way where access ramps to existing building are at present. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Clarify the proposals.

4. Proposals plan & area-wide policies

Comments: The area show on the drawing marked as Eldon Way Opportunity Site is where the majority of employment is currently. This would imply that this area would be redeveloped, which contradicts the previous statements of retaining Eldon Way as a trading centre. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Clarify the proposals.

Policy 2 - Delivering environmental improvements

Comments: We do not believe Hockley requires an additional public space. We consider a raised entry on Woodlands Road would be dangerous as they give a false sense of security. There is no street clutter to speak of and trees planted near existing buildings could undermine foundations and add to street clutter. We believe the Spa roundabout could be improved by adding extra lanes but with the limited space available we cannot see how pavement could also be widened. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Most of these proposals are unnecessary and undesirable.

Policy 3 - Promoting better movement

Comments: We do not believe that a developer would do any of this work unless it could make a massive redevelopment of the area including a major supermarket and mass house building, which Hockley does not want or need. This would mean redevelopment of Eldon Way, which contradicts the previous statements of retaining Eldon Way as a trading centre. There are no estimated costings, which we believe would cost many millions of pounds. Some of these proposals would be on railway property, which are notoriously difficult to deal with. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Change to more realistic proposals.

Policy 4 - Increasing the availability of housing

Comments: Again this would mean redevelopment of Eldon Way, which contradicts the previous statements of retaining Eldon Way as a trading centre. We believe this light industrial area it completely unsuitable for housing. In other sections this document talks about increasing parking, which goes against building on the car park in Plumberow Avenue that we believe belongs to the railways. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Change to more realistic proposals.


Policy 5 - Protecting jobs

Comments: We do not believe there is a demand for offices. Offices were planned near the airport and were cancelled and there are many empty ones in and around the village at the moment. It appears that this proposal is based on a 5 year old study that we believe to now be unsound. If the Foundry Estate has been upgraded it is not obvious from the outside of this asbestos roofed building. We do not believe any of these proposals will protect jobs and we therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Use up to date studies.

Policy 6 - Improving retail choice for local people

Comments: Hockley now has three supermarkets and we now have sufficient choice for our village. We do not require an additional supermarket up to 3,000 sq m as the current supermarkets do not get a massive turnover during weekdays and do not need the competition of a large supermarket on their door step. We believe a new large supermarket could lead to closure of one or more of our current ones and hence give us less choice. Again this has been based on a 5 year old study and we therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Use up to date studies.

Policy 7 - Ensuring a healthy centre

Comments: As this item is based on a 7 year old plan and a 5 year old study we therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Use up to date plans and studies.

Policy 8 - Encourage leisure opportunities

Comments: If the previous proposals mentioned in other items go ahead some of the current leisure facilities will be replaced by housing and CJ Bowling would be surrounded by shops and homes. This is completely unclear on the drawings provided and we therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Give clear information and drawings.

5.1 Working in partnership

Comments: We believe this will be a very complicated as we do not believe that most of the area proposed for redevelopment is largely in the control of a single land owner. There is no telling what ECC Highways will propose. One thing that seems to have been completely overlooked is the bottle neck under the railway bridge. In our opinion this needs to be widened by providing a separate pedestrian tunnel as in Wickford and Shenfield. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Working in partnership is easy to say but not so easy to achieve. As we have said on previous items we cannot believe a developer will take this on without a major development project. We believe some of this work would only be achieved by not using a developer but by obtaining government funds as they do in Southend and other places.

5.2 Financial viability

Comments: This again means redevelopment of Eldon Way, which contradicts the previous statements of retaining Eldon Way as a trading centre. There is no mention of what happens to all the current businesses using this area, all the job losses if they cannot afford to move to other premises and the travelling miles that would be required if they moved miles away from Hockley. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Make a more sensible financially plan.

5.3 Community infrastructure

Comments: These costings seem on the low side especially the Spa roundabout upgrade, which we believe would be in the order of £1 m alone. Nothing has been allowed for the bottle neck under the railway bridge. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Make a more sensible financially costings.
5.4 Monitoring change

Comments: We do not believe RDC have complied with the Localism Act 2011 as very little attempt has been made to include the local residents in this process, they have certainly not included the Hawkwell or Hockley Residents Association. They say they have included items from the Hockley Parish Plan but we see no evidence of this. We therefore believe this proposal to be unsound.

Changes: Include local people at all stages and get something that the majority agree with to avoid confrontations.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28908

Received: 17/01/2013

Respondent: Mrs S Edwards

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28912

Received: 17/01/2013

Respondent: Mr David Clarke

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

1) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

Full text:

) Process Failures by RDC resulting in a failure to consult properly i.e. NOT "legal"

RDC has consistently manipulated the HAAP consultations, misleading residents and denying their democratic rights, with the sole aim of implementing the council's own predetermined policies. Failings include:

1.1 misrepresenting evidence (including that of its own experts, thus distorting and undermining the whole economic rational for redevelopment) and contradicted itself. RDC have stated that "The Retail and Leisure Study (RLS) indicates that Hockley has great potential." The RLS actually says that Hockley has limited potential! It recommends a small, "boutique" approach. There is no evidence to support requirement for a supermarket and HAAP ignores the fact that 2 supermarkets have opened since R&LS published.

RDC has also stated that the HAAP must conform with the Core Strategy despite passing two specific motions in Full Council to the contrary (9 Sept 2009 and 14 Oct 2010).

1.2 imposing a two-tier consultation process with discriminates against Hockley. The council "accelerated" the HAAP and imposed a two-tier consultation system which discriminates against Hockley by:
* restricting public consultation - only a hastily arranged exhibition using 2010 material, acknowledged by the council as "not current thinking", which had previously been consulted on. Exhibition not advertised ungtil halfway through/
* pre-defining the outcome: as noted above, the council incorrectly set requirements based on the Core Strategy
* limiting the time available: the two other AAPs have more time and more consultation.
compared with similar, Area Action Plan studies for Rochford and Rayleigh, which were included in the same contract. The parallel action plans for Rayleigh and Rochford have been allowed more time and more consultation opportunity, despite the potential impact on those areas being much smaller. FoI response showing Traffic Assessments have been made for Rochford and Rayleigh but not for Hockley (later denied by the council).

1.3 manipulating and ignoring public consultations (contravening RDC's own Statement of Community Involvement). RDC have demonstrably determined the next step of the way forward before analysing the outcomes of earlier consultations, thereby rendering those consultations meaningless.

1.4 misleading residents by repeatedly stating highways issues would be included in the HAAP but, in fact, not including them .

2, Failures in the HAAP proposals resulting in it not being "sound"

The plans as presented in the HAAP are simply not viable

2.1. Parking (Chapter 3; Policy 3 )
* A new supermarket nearly 6 times the size of the current Co-Op will require adequate and appropriate additional parking, which as not been provided. (211 v pro-rata requirement for 275). Supermarket developers will require adequate parking; without it proposal is not viable.
* Station carpark reduced from 159 to 72 (a 55% reduction). No reason or evidence to support this

2.2 No effective proposals to deal with highways issues. (Chapter 3, Policy 3)
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Core Strategy. A Traffic Assessment is required to ascertain the impact on Hockley of the 3,500 additional homes to be built across the District as part of the Core Strategy.
* No Transport Assessment undertaken for Hockley. FoI response showing Transport Assessments undertaken in Rochford & Rayleigh but not Hockley - later denied by RDC.
* Plans for 3 slip-lanes at the Spa roundabout may not be viable (due to the narrow pavement outside the Spa) and have not been researched, despite previous promises. Proposal to insert slip lane and widen pavement outside Spa but no evidence viable and RDC's own experts have expressed reservations. In responses to Freedom of Information requests, the council says it has "no transport paper" to support their proposals.
* Other problem areas such as the railway bridge and Eldon Way junction are not even mentioned.
* Impact of moving station car park on highway under railway bridge not assessed. Traffic flows at peak commuter hours will be reversed. Impact unknown.
* Proposal to raise access to Woodlands Road likely to cause delays on main road and endanger pedestrians.

2.3 Retail (Chapter 3, Policy 6)
The proposals are largely focussed on developing a new supermarket, there is no evidence to support this; are contrary to the Retail & Leisure Study; and 2 new supermarkets have opened since the HAAP process started. No mention is made of these. The size of the new supermarket is out of proportion; may overwhelm existing retailers, reduce competition, and is unlikely to take Hockley forward.

2.4 Financial Viability (Chapter 5.2)
HAAP states financial analysis is marginal but that land assembly costs are included. The Viability Assessment states land assembly costs not included. No evidence plan is financially viable.

General Comment

1. Hockley's major problem is traffic congestion and lack of local jobs. This plan will worsen the traffic situation by building more houses and reduce jobs by its impact on the trading estate.

2. We do not need another supermarket. The three existing supermarkets are more than sufficient. A huge supermarket will finish off our local shops and destroy the 'village' atmosphere in Hockley.

The HAAP needs to be completely re-thought along the lines of scrapping the supermarket and new houses in favour of smartening up the High Street, solving traffic congestion and providing more easy-access car parking for the existing Co-op and Sainsburys supermarkets.

Object

Hockley Area Action Plan Submission Document

Representation ID: 28932

Received: 17/01/2013

Respondent: Mr Michael Roberts

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Representation Summary:

Utterly useless and not thought out for the existing people of Hockley village!

There will be too many cars, people and children, doctors, dentists, schools will be overloaded. What happens to the post office and the sorting office, and charity shops. Not enough parking at the moment, we do not need a 3000 sq whatever supermarket. Spa junction is a nightmare now so add a 100 or so more cars you get chaos. The village is what attracted us here, but with more houses and people it will be ruined. I have already written to Mark Francois MP about this stupid plan. Have you no thought to the existing people in Hockley. There are many pensioners living here. The junction at Plumberow and Greensward Lane will be chaos as well and reducing station car parking will force commuters into street parking all over Hockley causing more trouble. Please think again.

Full text:

Utterly useless and not thought out for the existing people of Hockley village!

There will be too many cars, people and children, doctors, dentists, schools will be overloaded. What happens to the post office and the sorting office, and charity shops. Not enough parking at the moment, we do not need a 3000 sq whatever supermarket. Spa junction is a nightmare now so add a 100 or so more cars you get chaos. The village is what attracted us here, but with more houses and people it will be ruined. I have already written to Mark Francois MP about this stupid plan. Have you no thought to the existing people in Hockley. There are many pensioners living here. The junction at Plumberow and Greensward Lane will be chaos as well and reducing station car parking will force commuters into street parking all over Hockley causing more trouble. Please think again.