RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say over plans for a major revamp of Dovercourt town centre before a consultation closes.

The proposed Dovercourt Public Realm scheme, developed by Essex County Council with Tendring Council, aims to give Kingsway, between Dovercourt Railway station, the town centre and the seafront, a major overhaul

Enhanced public spaces will be created outside the Queen Victoria statue on Marine Parade, Harwich Library and Dovercourt Railway Station as part of the scheme.

Lighting, planting, and paving improvements alongside B1414 Kingsway are also planned to make the area more attractive and accessible.

Tom Cunningham, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “The Dovercourt Public Realm Scheme represents an exciting opportunity to kickstart an ambitious programme of regeneration in Dovercourt.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Councillor - Tom CunninghamCouncillor - Tom Cunningham (Image: Essex County Council)

“The scheme is designed to improve connectivity between key areas of the town centre whilst also highlighting its beautiful coastline.

"The proposals would help to enhance the visitor experience, support local businesses and encourage further investment in the area."

A new 20mph speed limit is also proposed along Station Road, Kingsway, Marine Parade, and adjoining roads.

The scheme, if continued, also means £1.9million from the council’s remaining Levelling Up Fund Budget of £2million will be used to procure professional services to deliver the projects - alongside regeneration projects in Clacton.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Change - An illustration of a improved station plaza in DovercourtChange - An illustration of a improved station plaza in Dovercourt (Image: TDC)

Harwich councillor Ivan Henderson, deputy leader of Tendring Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, previously said: “Significant investment is being made in Harwich and Dovercourt through the Dovercourt Capital Regeneration Projects.

"This not only includes the £4.3million Dovercourt Public Realm Scheme, but also separate proposals to deliver high-quality new housing in the town, and to refurbish Harwich Library and create a new Adult Community Learning skills centre.

A consultation began in November and ends on January 16. It is hoped work will begin in the summer of 2025.

Residents, businesses and visitors are being urged to have their say before the consultation ends.

Mr Cunningham said: “There is still time for residents to have their say on the proposals and I would urge them to feedback before the consultation closes on January 16.”