Lib Dem response to Debden redevelopment

9.01.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 19th Jul 2008

Following Councillor Ann Haigh's survey of residents who live in Loughton Broadway ward to seek their views on the planned 'Broadway Vision', Epping Forest Liberal Democrats have now had an opportunity to look at the responses. The main findings are outlined below alongside possible actions to meet the views expressed.

Main findings

Over 50% of respondents felt that the main priority should be the building of new retail units/ leisure facilities.

It was evident from all respondents that a balance should be kept between supermarkets/ independent run shops and restaurants.

Two thirds of responses rated the current transport links as 'OK', but expressed a wish for buses services to terminate/start at a single place and for better security.

All respondents said they would use a one-stop shop, with most saying they would prefer it located in the unit occupied by the Housing Department.

A clear majority of responses were against new housing development around The Broadway

Respondents in the age bracket 40-60 felt that the redevelopment of The Broadway would not encourage them to use the services any more than they do now.

Actions

As the development of the 'Transport Interchange' may not happen for a number of years, returning all bus routes to terminate/ start at one point (by BP garage in Torrington Drive)would make travelling to and from The Broadway/ tube station easier.

Epping Forest District Council already has a shop in The Broadway. Instead of waiting to build a one-stop shop in Burton Road the council should work with the county council (and possibly Loughton Town Council) to turn this is to a one-stop shop.

More consultation is required before plans are drawn up for developing housing.

If not already in place, a 'town statement' should be developed to ensure a balance of shops is maintained especially regarding the proposed development.

Councillor Ann Haigh said: "Thank you to everyone who took the time to reply to the survey. We must now ensure the planned development to Broadway is right if are going to encourage growth in the local area."