ROCHFORD residents are to be consulted on how the town’s Market Square could be revitalised.

The District Council will hold the public consultation to ensure residents have a say about how Rochford town centre should look in years to come.

Council planning officers have drawn up two possible options, but any further ideas from the public would be welcomed.

Councillor 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 first plan sees greater priority given to pedestrians with wider pavement areas in the Market Square, give space for 15 parking bays and three taxis while retaining the bus stop.

The second plan sees a more significant intervention could see pedestrianisation of the whole square, with space for up to 10 parking spaces and the bus stop, but the relocation of the taxi rank.

The Council will be exhibiting the information in Rochford during the consultation period, at locations to be confirmed, and online at www.rochford.gov.uk.

Representations must be submitted by 5pm on Thursday, May 8, 2014 and can be submitted online consultation system at http://rochford.jdi-consult.net/ldf Alternatively, send them to Planning Policy, Rochford District Council, South Street, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1BW.