The previous Lib Dem led Council failed to plan for the inevitable need for new parking arrangements as a result of the Crossrail works in Shenfield. For the last few weeks, the residents of Hutton Poplars have been left to contend with the impact of extra cars in the Hall and on the Estate, as season ticket holders from Shenfield have been told to park there.
Leader of the Council and Hutton North ward member, Louise McKinlay called earlier this year for arrangements to be made with the County Council for the Rayleigh Road site to be used on a temporary basis whlist a longer term solution was found. Louise met last week with representatives from the Fire Authority and an agreement has now been reached to use the land on a temporary basis. Approval for this was given at last night's Economic Development Committee.
Louise said; "I am delighted to have been able to deliver on this for Hutton Poplars residents. The impact of this extra traffic on the area is profound as the estate already serves residents, hall users and two schools. Pushing the season ticket holders there made a difficult situation impossible.It also had the added impact of creating mayhem for school parents who were constantly worried about whether they would be able to get a space, often being forced on to the roads outside residents' houses or back round in to Long Ridings Avenue."
Planning permission for a change of use and a new parking order will need to be introduced and this process will take place over the summer. It is expected that the new arrangements will be in place shortly after the schools return in September.