PRESS RELEASE

THE BILLERICAY DESIGN STATEMENT ASSOCIATION c/o The Loft, Crown Yard, High Street, Billericay CM12 9BX Friday 4 January 2008 PRESS RELEASE Final chance to have your say During the past 6 months The Billericay Design Statement Association has presented more than a dozen road shows at various venues around the town. About 6000 questionnaires have been distributed, and the Association is now making a final call for residents to say what they think about building styles, roads, public transport, green belt, schools and environmental issues which affect the whole of Billericay as well as the High Street area. Questionnaires should be returned by 15 January to The Loft, Crown Yard, High Street, Billericay, CM12 9BX. If further questionnaires are required they can be also obtained from The Town Council Office at this address; alternatively, people can access the BDSA website at www.billericaydsa.org.uk to take part in the consultation. Preliminary analysis of comments posted on the road show displays show that the people of Billericay regard the town as a friendly place to live; they treasure the open spaces which give the area such a green aspect and would like to see more trees and flowers in the High Street. The range of shopping facilities is highly regarded; visitors come to the town from many surrounding areas because it offers such diversity. However, opinion is split on the increase in pubs and restaurants - a majority now thinks there are too many. The preservation of historical buildings in the town centre is deemed essential to maintain the town's character. Residents are firmly against high-rise flats and offices. Other complaints most frequently noted are: Loss of small dwellings ('garden development') Road and footpaths poorly maintained Too much litter On-street parking should be restricted The shabby railway footbridge The Design Statement is a document intended to supplement Basildon District Council's planning policy within the Local Development Framework. It sets out the specific nature of the buildings and landscape which makes the town distinctive, with recommendations on how to encourage new development which will enhance and complement that which already exists. It will offer guidance to landowners, architects, builders and homeowners when preparing proposals and making alterations. The document will facilitate approval of planning applications and discourage unsympathetic developments. The Billericay Design Statement is being prepared by an independent Steering Group, a voluntary partnership of key members of the community, including the private sector, with support from Town and District Councils.