COUNCIL officers were accused of spreading “myths” about the popularity of Southend seafront as they went head-to-head with traders to discuss controversial development plans.

Southend Council has submitted its Southend Central Area Action Plan (SCAAP) for independent examination by a planning inspector.

The public hearing entered its second day at the Civic Centre, in Victoria Avenue, yesterday.

Council officers were criticised by members of the community for their lack of understanding about tourism in the town. Campaigners argued a lack of parking set out in the document prove this.

Brian Ayling, an independent councillor and lifelong Southend resident, said: “There is a gap between the officers and the business community.

“You’ve got career government officers who are very professional, but I have found over the past ten years there’s a lack of understanding about Southend.

“The fact is that this plan should not have been prepared without tourism and parking strategies.”

Paul Thompson, chairman of the seafront traders association, said he is frustrated by “myths” circulated by the council - especially in relation to how busy the seafront gets.

He said: “The work done on the A127 is commendable. They have increased the car capacity at crucial junctions.

“But when it gets to Cuckoo Corner, their policies change to encouraging sustainable transport and they start referencing myths.

“One is that it’s only busy for a few days in August. But Southend is busy when the sun is out. New Year’s Day was packed this year.

“Officers also make out like people should use the car parks in the north part of the town because they always have spaces. But there is no way families will want to park up there and walk a mile down to the beach.”

His concerns were backed up by independent councillor Martin Terry, who added: “It’s the fact that officers say it’s only busy on certain days in August that reflects our concerns about there being two different agendas.

“We are busy from May to September. When the weather is good, London comes to Southend. Most people come by car and we can’t change that pattern of behaviour.”

Council officers told the hearing there is enough evidence within the action plan to support their plans.

The hearing will conclude today.