Rochford District Council is inviting residents to share their views on a proposed new byelaw, aimed at protecting and enhancing the district’s woodlands, parks and open spaces for generations to come.
The Council is reviewing and modernising its current byelaws, some of which have been in place for nearly 50 years. These byelaws provide clear rules to ensure that everyone can enjoy public spaces safely and respectfully, while also safeguarding the natural environment, habitats, and wildlife.
As part of the consultation, Rochford District Council is proposing to:
- Revoke old byelaws that are no longer appropriate.
- Make new byelaws to deal with modern challenges and priorities.
- Update the list of sites currently covered to address previous omissions and naming errors to ensure consistency; to include new open spaces created since the byelaws were last updated and to remove other sites which have been or are planned to be subject to change of land use.
The proposed new byelaw is based on the Home Office's model of current best practice, and informed by experience of the current challenges, and ongoing park user feedback.
Councillor Chris Stanley, Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee, said: "We are committed to ensuring our open spaces remain safe, welcoming, and sustainable for everyone to enjoy. Updating these byelaws allows us to better protect the natural environment and adapt to modern-day issues, from anti-social behaviour to conservation needs.
“I encourage all residents to take a few moments to read the draft and let us know what you think, your voice is essential in shaping how we manage these valued community assets."
Residents are encouraged to read through the draft byelaw and provide their comments. The Council intends to apply to the Secretary of State to revoke the two existing byelaws and replace them with a single, comprehensive byelaw made under section 164 of the Public Health Act 1875 and sections 12 and 15 of the Open Spaces Act 1906.
To view the draft byelaw and submit your comments, visit: www.engagewithus.co.uk/pathway-consultation
Consultation closes on Monday 16 June.