SHOPPERS and residents are being urged to have their say over plans which could see cars banned from Rochford’s Market Square.

The district council plans to launch a public consultation allowing residents to voice their opinions on the proposals to revitalise the town centre.

Council planning officers have drawn up two possible options as part of the Rochford Area Action Plan, but any further ideas from the public would be welcomed.

The first plan sees greater priority to pedestrians with wider pavements in the Market Square, creating space for 15 parking bays and three taxis, while retaining the bus stop.

The second proposal sees a more significant proposal which could see pedestrianisation of the whole square, with space for up to ten parking spaces and the bus stop, but the relocation of the taxi rank.

Keith Hudson, deputy leader of the council, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to plan for the future of Rochford’s Market Square to attract more shoppers to the area.

“It is important that we make it a central point of which we can be proud, and preserve its unique historic character at the same time. We really need the input of residents to help us achieve this goal, so I would urge everyone to have a look through the information and make their views known.”

The council will be exhibiting the information in Rochford during the consultation period, at locations to be confirmed, and also online at www.

rochford.gov.uk People’s views must be submitted by 5pm on Thursday, May 8, and can be submitted on the online consultation system at http://rochford.jdi-consult.net/ldf

Alternatively, you can send your comments to Rochford District Council, South Street, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1BW.