Agenda item

To consider report PES/397 of the Head of Economy and Planning.

The Commission considered report PES/397 of the Head of Economy and Planning. The Town Centre Regeneration Programme (TCRP) was first published in February 2016, updated in 2018 and significant progress has been made since then in terms of programme delivery. The report presented a summary of that progress and sought approval of a revised, updated version of the TCRP prior to public consultation.

During the discussion with the Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development and the Head of Economy and Planning, Councillors made the following comments:

·        Recognition that the Town Centre Regeneration Programme included a number of partner organisations whose contributions had been significant in delivering successful outcomes of the Crawley Growth Programme and Town Centre Regeneration Programme.

·        Acknowledgement that Grade A office space was important for the town, not only to attract companies from the professional services business sector but also to facilitate individuals to meet and co-work, which had been lacking throughout the pandemic. The upgrading of existing commercial space would also assist in creating space for businesses and there had been improved relations with property owners to refurnish premises.  Enforcement powers could be considered where properties were of a poor quality and owners were not willing to make necessary improvements.

·        It was commented that there was significant town centre growth and this should be identified within the local plan to ensure the electorate representation was monitored.

·        It was felt that it would be important to include the carbon reduction targets within the Climate Emergency ‘Action to Zero’ section of the Town Centre Regeneration Programme.

·        Confirmation provided that the updated Town Centre Regeneration Programme would be subject to consultation and that minor modifications may follow if required.

·        Concern was expressed that there were still challenges facing the town with the presence of some empty shops and it was questioned whether any town branding may assist, perhaps with a link to the City bid.  It was clarified that footfall had nearly returned to 2019 levels and branding had been included in a consultation exercise in 2017 (report PES/252 OSC and Cabinet).

·        Recognition that in order to provide quality sustainable residential accommodation that was supported by a rich mix of community facilities, it was important to review the demand of other provision within the area such as GP surgeries or dental practices.

·        It was commented that if the town centre was to encompass facilities and amenities it would be important to improve public toilet provision, (especially given the closure of some during lockdown), whilst also maintaining those currently in operation.

·        Acknowledgement that the Historic High Street had maintained a different culture to the rest of the shopping area, particularly Queens Square.  The Historic High Street had seen regeneration development, particularly with regards to the environmental improvements but remained mainly an eating and drinking quarter.

·        Support for the newly positioned bandstand within memorial gardens, however it was commented additional seating would be beneficial and attract further visitors during performances.

·        Confirmation was provided on the current status of the market together with the requirements and constraints currently in existence for establishing an indoor market.

·        Recognition that there was a need to create and improve economic conditions in order to attract people to move to or work in Crawley.  It would be paramount to ensure the quality and availability of public amenity, good quality employment together with availability of commercial space.

RESOLVED

That the Commission noted the report and requested that the views expressed during the debate, were fed back to the Cabinet through the Commission’s Comment sheet.