Opposing all change and development is not always the best way to protect historic towns like Rochford, according to the area's Conservative MP.

Sir Teddy Taylor, MP for Rochford and Southend East, put this view forward when he spoke to the annual meeting of the chamber of trade at the King's Head Hotel in the Square.

Sir Teddy said when he was first elected for the town, he realised it was a "magnificent place with a great history and much to protect and safeguard."

He added: "However, there's always a great danger in any such place of thinking the best way of protecting the area is to oppose all change and development.

"I'm therefore glad we have within the chamber of trade an effective organisation which seeks to promote worthwhile change and development."

Sir Teddy said the best example of the problem was the proposed redevelopment of the Rumbelows store in West Street where there was strong opposition to the scheme which was put forward.

"The plain fact is that this sad old building creates the impression of ruinous crumbling in what should be a lively shopping street."

He went on: "The creation of a supermarket in the heart of Rochford would in my view be a major boost for the town and happily it now seems more likely."

Sir Teddy said he was also hopeful there would be some good news soon about the future of Southend Airport.

"There are so many areas which would welcome a regional airport, but opposition has put it very much at risk. It's vital the supporters of the airport, of which I am one, should start shouting loudly."

Published Tuesday, June 10, 2003

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