Residents are to have their say when they are asked their views on the future development of Rayleigh's Mill Hall area in the new year.

During January, specialists from Loughborough University will be quizzing the public on which one of three options for the site they would prefer.

The consultation is being organised by Rochford District Council.

Councillor Steve Tellis, chairman of the Mill Hall working party, said: "We believe that knowing the needs and requirements of local people as individuals, and in groups, will be crucial in determining the nature of the final scheme and its ultimate success.

"We want as many local people as possible to take part in this detailed consultation and give their opinions during January 1999."

All the projects aim to open up the area around the Windmill, and the people will also be asked whether they want a small education centre at the rear of the old Mill.

This classroom type facility could also be used as a small community hall for hire.

The first option is upgrade the Mill Hall with a new entrance closer to the historic windmill and set up a children's centre and other facilities in space which is currently redundant in the building.

Another idea is to build a 20-metre swimming pool on the site of the former sports and social club, with a timber-clad exterior.

The third option has two aspects. one is a limited refurbishment of the social club for community uses or to build a brand new community centre on the site.

Dates and times of exhibitions and meetings when the public's views will be obtained are currently being finalised and will be publicised in the first week of January.

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