A consultation has begun over the next steps proposed for Jaywick Sands.
A Place Plan for the area is being developed by Tendring District Council (TDC), a framework from which recent positive steps – including new council homes and the new workspace and market project – can be built upon.
The approach to the Place Plan was considered by TDC’s Planning Policy and Local Plan Committee in May, and Cabinet in June, and a community consultation is now taking place to find out what local residents would like to see in the area’s future.
TDC is also consulting on its draft Design Guide for Jaywick Sands, which sets out minimum design needs for new builds in the area; taking into account up-to-date national standards and Environment Agency guidance. This will ensure new homes can increase flood safety, ensure neighbours’ privacy, and keep Jaywick Sands’ character.
Results from the consultation will allow the council to fine-tune proposals into a more detailed plan for consideration.
Paul Honeywood, TDC Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility for Jaywick Sands, urged people to have their say in the consultation.
“If we are going to successfully build a bright future for Jaywick Sands, then we have to consider the big picture and strategy for the area,” Paul said.
“We have already done great work there over several years now and need to keep that going through a Place Plan and Design Guide. But it is so important that we get your views to shape this vitally important process.”
People can take part in the consultation online from today (Monday, 5 September) at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/jaywicksandsconsultations, which also contains details of a consultation webinar.
A series of drop-in events are also taking place at the following dates and times:
- Saturday, 10 September, 11am-3pm, Jaywick Sands Martello Tower, Belsize Avenue
- Saturday, 17 September, 10.30am-1pm, Jaywick Sands Community Resource Centre, Brooklands
- Tuesday, 20 September, 10am-1pm, Golf Green Hall, Golf Green Road
- Saturday 24 September, 12-2pm, Inclusion Ventures, Broadway
The consultation runs until 5pm on Monday, 17 October.
The Place Plan will consider a range of ideas around development of affordable housing and services; to improve housing quality working in conjunction with landlords; and improvements to streets and open spaces.
The aim is to ensure long-term improvement of Jaywick Sands as a place to live and work, and is dependent on improvements to flood defences – which are currently being assessed by the Environment Agency. The council is committed to working positively with the community to find the best way forward and has ruled out compulsory purchase orders or full-scale demolition – unpopular options that were considered in the past.
