The Southend Central Area Masterplan (Final Report March 2008) has been adopted by the Council as interim planning guidance pending preparation of the Southend Central Area Action Plan DPD. These documents aim to guide future development of the town centre by defining and setting within a strong urban design framework the main physical changes that are required to correct the causes of underperformance and to deliver on the jobs and housing targets included in the Core Strategy DPD.
'Towards a Strong Urban Renaissance' (Urban Task Force 2005) emphasises that design excellence is an essential element in delivering sustainable urban regeneration. Urban neighbourhoods to be successful need to be safe and attractive places to live and work if they are to compete effectively to host footloose businesses and a vibrant population. The role of the public realm in creating such places is crucial. The creation of an improved public realm is at the heart of realising the full potential of the town centre.