A report outlining the updated business proposals for the Better Queensway regeneration project will be discussed by councillors this week.
The council’s shareholder board discussed the project last night, with the report being considered at a special cabinet meeting today.
The report updates the progress of the project so far and seeks agreement on the draft business proposal submitted by Porter’s Place Southend-on-Sea LLP, which outlines the priorities for the project until December 2021.
This includes different funding streams being used to pay for the project, a breakdown of the proposed stages of the regeneration scheme and a timeline of when the work is planned to take place.
If agreed, this business plan will replace the previous business plan agreed in October 2019.
Cllr Ian Gilbert, Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said: “It is an important part of the joint venture partnership agreement that we have a revised business plan every year in order to update the project’s financial position and outline upcoming activities. This new plan reflects the work due to take place during 2021.
“It’s an exciting time for the project as the hybrid planning application has been submitted to the Development Control Committee and the public consultation into the Phase 1 proposals has launched, including around 425 new homes.”
The business plan also outlines details for the first phase of the project, which if approved and once planning permission has been granted, will begin next year.
The headlines for proposed delivery by 2026, are:
- The highways scheme
- Approximately 425 homes including 1, 2 and 3 bed homes and a mix of tenancies, including 50 shared ownership, 100 socially rented, and 12 shared equity homes.
- Porters Park (south) and the associated outside communal areas;
- Demolition of Quantock and Sutton Road flats;
- A mix of commercial uses; and
- The community concierge.
Cllr Ron Woodley, deputy leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said: “The report highlights we are on track with one of the biggest regeneration projects the town has ever seen. In order to keep the momentum going, we need to make sure we have an updated business plan in place, following the agreed strategic direction and delivering the service and financial performance.”
Porter’s Place Southend-on-Sea LLP has launched a consultation on this first proposed phase of development, which includes over 400 homes, as well as ground floor uses including potential artist’s studios, a cafe and a convenience store. Phase 1 building work would start on the site of Quantock tower - which would be demolished once residents have moved into their new homes - and the temporary Essex Street car park.
To find out more about the project and the consultation visit www.betterqueensway.co.uk