Rochford Town Centre Area Action Plan - Issues and Options

Our Ref.: RF/2613

Rochford Area Action Plan

Thank you for your email of 24 September consulting The Theatres Trust on the issues and optons for the Rochford Area Action Plan.

The Theatres Trust is the national advisory public body for theatres and a statutory consultee on planning applications affecting land on which there is a theatre. This applies to all theatre buildings, old and new, in current use, in other uses, or disused. Established by The Theatres Trust Act 1976 'to promote the better protection of theatres', our main objective is to safeguard theatre use, or the potential for such use but we also provide expert advice on design, conservation, property and planning matters to theatre operators, local authorities and official bodies.

Due to the specific nature of the Trust's remit we are concerned with the protection and promotion of theatres and therefore anticipate matters relating to cultural facilities.

An Evening Economy

We note that the document rightly suggests that the development of an evening economy for Rochford would be advantageous but also note that the report on page 65 of the Retail and Leisure Study 2008 does not mention much about an assessment of existing leisure facilities. We support the suggestion at ¶3.8 on page 38 that Market Square should be town's focus for community activities but that nearby free parking is vital for residents and visitors to access existing retail and new leisure venues.

The challenge therefore should be to build on existing strengths and broaden the appeal of the town centre to a wider range of ages and social groups such as families and older people which could include the conversion or building of a suitable structure for community use where people and families coming to an event can provide regular custom for local bars and restaurants outside normal working and shopping hours to enliven the town's evening economy.

We also suggest that the issues of activities for young people could be addressed by the establishment of a youth theatre in a suitable empty building which would provide opportunities for young people to learn a broad range of skills associated with the dramatic arts and encourage more mature youngsters to assist in the development of the artistic work and the day to day management of a Youth Theatre to provide them with valuable experience and further training. The venture could also include cinematography and would respond to the needs of young people from different cultural backgrounds, and those young people who have special needs.

We look forward to being consulted on further planning policy documents.