Town Centre Masterplans

Rochford Town Centre Masterplan Consultation

Thank you for allowing the Chamber to respond later than the closing date. We met yesterday evening and would like to submit the following points for the Consultants to consider. We acknowledge that the plan is mainly concerned with spatial issues and that some of the points refer to policy changes, but they all fall within the powers of the RDC, and we feel, therefore, they remain valid.

1. The town centre needs a focal point to attract visitors and new businesses. Although the Square is attractive enough, it is blighted by the '60s development on the east side of the Square. Photographs of the original buildings give a flavour of what has been demolished. We recommend a policy aim should be to replace it with a landmark building which will enhance and attract people back to Rochford. (At this time there are noises that the continuation of the new Somerfield supermarket is in doubt.) From experience, we know that the London-based owners are not interested in the site other than for its rental income. However, the RDC does have powers under the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act to be proactive, perhaps with private sector partners to support this.

2. There needs to be better footpath access to the Square from the north and west. From the Dalys Road side, one has to walk on the very narrow pavements between Weir Pond Road and the west end of Malting Villas. A route needs to be developed linking directly into the new Barratt development. Similarly, from Union Lane to the new supermarket along the southern edge of the NHS car park. Both these links would make the centre more accessible for daily shopping. We fear that what is happening is that shoppers are using their cars as foot access is not safe/convenient, and then go to Tesco on A127.

3. There has been much concern recently following the Council Leader's remarks in the Echo on pedestrianising the Square. The Chamber is strongly against this as a strategic aim at this time. If points 1 & 2 are put in place, plus a parking regime that allows 1 hour free parking in the Back Lane car park, then we would hope that the town centre could become sufficiently robust to reconsider the proposal. The thought of relaxed continental-style living is appealing, but many of the less respecting inhabitants would ruin these aspirations.

4. There need be only 2 taxi spaces in the Square. Most are in radio contact with their controller and few collect fares directly from the Square. Another, less intrusive site should be found, perhaps at Freight House.

5. To facilitate the potential change of use applications from retail to residential, we recommend that an inner ring close to the Square and North, South, East and West Streets should define what can/cannot be permitted.

We hope that the Consultants will find these points of value. Should they wish to meet with us, our members will be happy to attend.