Hadleigh regeneration: new market and shops on wish list

Castle Point Council has launched a new consultation urging all residents and businesses to come forward and give their ideas of how the area can be improved. 

The results of the “Hadleigh Future Visioning Study” will be used to devise a long-awaited plan after years of delays with a major regeneration project. Now-scrapped plans would've seen a library and farmer's market built (Image: Castle Point Borough Council)
Numerous failed regeneration attempts have been put forward in recent years following the demolition of the Crown pub, but failed to get off the ground. 

For Jonathan Garston, of Garston’s Footwear, the secret to Hadleigh’s future can be found in its past. 

He said: “I think a market would work, obviously they’d have to find the space but I think it would be good for us to return to what the town is known for.”

Hadleigh is home to many independent shops (Image: Newsquest)
Jennifer Hayes, owner of Solo boutique, has been trading in Hadleigh for 30 years and admitted the town is completely different now and in need of improvements.

“We seem to have a lot of barbers and restaurants now. Lots of the same sort of thing when what we really need are the shops we don’t have,” said Mrs Hayes.

“My memories are of the shop being so busy. The main change is just the lack of people.”

Although the consultation has been welcomed by most, some are still concerned about the slow pace of regeneration

Plans to regenerate the town centre have been repeatedly delayed (Image: Google Maps)

 Jacqui Thornton, former Castle Point Tory councillor, said: “There’s been plenty of talking about it and now we need some action because businesses are suffering.”

Dave Blackwell, leader of Castle Point Council believes the consultation will allow those who live and work in Hadleigh to engage with the future of the town. 

He said: “The idea is to talk to local businesses and residents to understand how they see the future in Hadleigh and how we can improve the town.

“The most important thing to us is regenerating the town centre and making sure people have the right facilities for them. We’re very keen on community engagement and believe you’re never going to learn anything without listening to your residents.”

The Hadleigh Future Visioning Study launched on Monday. Visit consultation.castlepoint.gov.uk/planning/hadleigh-future-visioning-study/