16 September 2008
Give us your views, urges Steering Group
The Uckfield Steering Group is urging members of the public to get involved in the redevelopment process now taking place in the town.
A major developer, St James Investments, together with one of the town's leading retailers, Tesco, have launched a set of proposals for regenerating the town, based around an enlarged Tesco store.
They are mounting a major exhibition of their plans at Uckfield Civic Centre on Friday September 19 from11am to 7pm; and Saturday September 20, from 11am to 5pm.
Members of the Uckfield Steering Group and other town centre commercial property owners had an initial preview of the regeneration proposals last Wednesday.
"We found the proposals interesting and were impressed at the work that has gone into them," said Uckfield Town Councillor Mick Harker, chairman of the Steering Group. "But is it crucial for the town's residents to get involved and tell us what they think.
"I know the developers are as keen as we are to find out what the public feel about their proposals. However, the Steering Group is looking at the bigger picture - more than just the Tesco proposal. We are keen to see how the whole of the town centre can be revitalised to ensure provision of an exciting range of shops.
"We are also determined to ensure an effective highway solution to the town centre congestion and are looking to see improvements in flood management. So I am urging residents, businesses and visitors to come along to the exhibition and make their views known."
The Uckfield Steering Group consists of representatives of East Sussex County Council, Wealden District Council, Uckfield Town Council and East Sussex Fire & Rescue. Each owns parcels of land in the town centre. They are working together to produce a range of improvements for residents, local businesses and visitors to the town.
Part of the St James Investments' plan involves an expansion to Tesco's existing store in Bell Lane. At this stage, the steering group has made no comment about the merits or principles behind the St James Investments' proposals.
As well as attending the exhibition on September 19 and 20, the public can provide comments and feedback about the regeneration proposals by using Uckfield Town Council's website.
"As representatives of the owners of the publicly-owned land in the town, it is important we use this opportunity to try to shape the future in a way the public wants," said Cllr Harker. "We are committed to as wide a debate as possible about regeneration with the public and all the local land owners."
