In January 2024, the results Stock Parish Council’s Road Safety Survey were shared, with nearly 50% (462 out of 960) of Stock households taking part.
With regard to parking in the village centre, 82% of respondents found the issue as a cause for concern. Of all respondents, 53.6% were in support of parking restrictions in the village, while 33.7% were against restrictions being introduced.
The Parish Council discussed the survey results with villagers at considerable length at the February 2024 meeting, and decided to take the matter forward with South Essex Parking Partnership (SEPP), while regularly updating and speaking to local residents, businesses and Stock Primary School.
In March 2024, the Parish Council and SEPP discussed Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO) which would see parking restrictions introduced at junctions in the village centre, following the Highway Code, and in roads close to Stock Primary School, which would be enforced on a regular basis.
The roads affected are Austen Drive, Back Lane, Cambridge Close, Mill Road, Swan Lane and The Square.
These discussions continued throughout the year, with SEPP carrying out initial assessments of the village on 3 July, which they then discussed with Essex County Council.
At the Parish Council’s August meeting, it was confirmed that SEPP had informed the Parish Council that parking restrictions could be introduced at relevant sites, subject to public consultation with village residents, businesses and other stakeholders. However, due to available funding, this would not progress until the first quarter of 2025.
SEPP’s public consultation period has now begun and will end on 14 March 2025.
All associated documents for the proposed scheme are available online at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/tros.
Hard copies are available for inspection at Chelmsford City Council, Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1JE.
If you wish to object to or write in support of the proposed Order, please email trafficreg@chelmsford.gov.uk or write to the undersigned stating your reasons – South Essex Parking Partnership Manager, South Essex Parking Partnership, Chelmsford City Council, Duke Street, Chelmsford CM1 1JE.
