Southend Central Area Action Plan (SCAAP) - Revised Proposed Submission 2016

We agree upon this definition of the established linear High Street. However, as we will later point out on paragraph 50, the southern part of the High Street, opposite The Royals main entrance, is a crucial part of this well established linear High Street as defined in this section, and thus should be considered primary shopping frontage.

The south section of the High Street opposite the main entrance to the Royals has been designated secondary frontage, despite being on the main linear high street (as per paragraph 37) and serving as a vital link between seafront and the town. We think that this is not only a contradiction of the above paragraph 50 (as this area is indeed on the main high street) but are concerned that this omission will detract from quality retail stores being developed and maintained in this large and important area of the high street.

We are concerned by the assertion that there will be 'no *net* loss of public car parking to the south of the Central Area'. Given the plans to build 200+ spaces at Southend Museum, this could allow for spaces to be lost in the southern part of the town centre, which this plan acknowledges as the busiest parking area. Parking spaces on the seafront and parking spaces in the southern town centre do not have an interchangeable use, and any loss of parking in the southern part of the town centre could result in the High Street being less competitive versus other town centres/out of town locations. Furthermore, museum parking should be primarily for those visiting the museum, and it is unlikely that people will park on the seafront and then walk up to the town centre & carry shopping back etc.

Regarding point 3a, more information is required here as to what the impact of this would be on traffic flow around the town centre and what the specifics of this plan would be. Where would this traffic be sent instead?