VIEWS are being sought on expanding a conservation area covering Colchester’s “most cosmopolitan street”.
Colchester’s local plan committee has agreed to launch a public consultation this month over a planned extension to the area, covering North Station Road.
The move would see a conservation area expanded to cover a further six terraced houses in Causton Road.
A report before the committee said the changes would “enable more effective protection of its special character and appearance”.
Addressing the committee, Sir Bob Russell, Colchester’s High Steward, argued the road “does not need fixing”.
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He said: “Please someone tell me what is missing that needs fixing.
“North Station Road from the Albert Roundabout to Middleborough is Colchester’s most cosmopolitan street.
“It’s full of life and vitality.
“You’ve got takeaways you can choose from for a fortnight and not repeat a visit.
“The convenience stores are open virtually all hours it seems, although two of them sadly in the last week have been forced to move their stock inside because it’s blocking the pavement.
“Blocking the pavement my foot, the council’s litter bin blocks the pavement more than they do.
“The electricity cabinets and pedestrian crossing block the pavement more than they do.”
Sir Bob added: “If you’re extending Causton Road, you ought to look at Albert Street because the houses in Albert Street are of the same vintage.”
Committee member Lewis Barber praised the “huge variety” of businesses in North Station Road, but said he would like to see “street furniture tidied up”.
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He added: “This conservation area at rush hour is completely choked with traffic and I do think we should be looking at working with Essex Highways at finding solutions to reduce some of the air pollution caused as a result of that.
“When I walk or cycle, or even get the bus down there, it is just full of fumes.
“There are young children and businesses down there and I think we should be looking at finding ways to support improving air quality including the planting of trees.”
A report which went before the committee said: “The area has great potential for regeneration that can better reveal and enhance its special interest.”
The consultation can be accessed via the council’s website, while letters will be sent out to residents within the boundaries of the proposed conservation area.
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