Identification of the Issues and Opportunities for
Hockley and Rochford 2008
Work has begun on masterplans for Rochford and Hockley town
centres, taking into consideration residents' initial thoughts on
what issues should be addressed. The masterplans are being prepared
by Urban Initiatives, a leading urban planning and design
consultancy.
The purpose of the masterplans is to inform the Council's Local
Development Framework and help provide guidance to both the Council
and potential developers in terms of proposals, funding bids and
enhancement schemes.
These reports are important as they will help guide
regeneration, development and conservation measures for both town
centres. The draft Core Strategy Preferred Options report
identified our desire to restrict greenfield development and
encourage new development, especially residential uses, to existing
town centres. Town centres are recognised as being central to the
delivery of sustainable development patterns and Government policy
seeks to promote growth in existing centres to encourage a full
range of services in high-quality areas that are accessible to
all.
The plans will identify opportunities for development within the
town centres of Rochford and Hockley, taking into account the local
character and historical context of each centre, to achieve the
Council's vision of making the district the place of choice in the
county to live, work and visit.
Initial community involvement was undertaken on initial
possibilities of enhancement of the town centres and you can view
the comments submitted via the related link at the bottom of this
page. All members of the community will have an opportunity to
provide feedback throughout the process, which will be considered
in the preparation of a final report.
There will be further opportunities to have your say on the
plans for Rochford and Hockley town centres as the process
develops. If you wish to be added to the Council's mailing list and
notified of future participation opportunities please contact
Planning Policy on 01702 318191 or email planning.policy@rochford.gov