Rochford Town Council

02/09/2026

The survey closes 15 September 2026

Let's start with a question...

Would you be willing to pay for a garden waste collection service if it helped support local services?

Before you answer, it's important to know that no decisions have been made and we're not proposing any changes at this stage. We're simply asking residents what they think about a range of possible options as we plan for the future.

As part of this year's Budget Consultation, we're also seeking views on ideas such as increasing car parking charges, generating more income from Council-owned assets, increasing commercial activity, introducing charges for some services and making greater use of technology.

Whether you're for these ideas, against them, or somewhere in between, we'd like to hear from you.

Complete the survey: https://www.rochford.gov.uk/budgetsurvey

Closes 15 September.

01/09/2026

Rochford Town Council would like to remind residents that fish should not be released into the ponds at Doggetts Wildlife Area.

Whilst this may be done with good intentions, introducing fish can have unintended consequences for the existing ecosystem. Fish introduced from other waters can carry diseases, parasites or invasive species which may affect existing fish populations, water quality and wildlife habitats.

The ponds at Doggetts are managed to support both wildlife and fishing activities, and any unauthorised introduction of fish can upset the natural balance of the water environment.

If you can no longer care for a fish, please seek advice from an appropriate aquatic specialist or rehoming service rather than releasing it into the wild.

Thank you for helping us protect Doggetts Wildlife Area and its wildlife for everyone to enjoy.

28/08/2026

This evening, the Planning Policy Committee will be asked to vote on whether the Council should formally request a two-month extension from the Government to the Local Plan submission deadline.

This is to allow all Councillors more time within the process, in response to their requests, to familiarise themselves with the evidence base and the Plan documents before making decisions.

The deadline has been set at 31 December 2026, so if granted, this extension would take us to 26 February 2027. A shorter extension of one month was also considered, but two months was judged a suitable recommendation to make sure residents and Members have a full opportunity to have an informed say before submission.

No decision has yet been made. The Committee will consider whether to take this action on the basis of the report and recommendation before them.

Over the coming weeks, we will continue to work to the Government’s set deadline in order to get a Local Plan in place which can help protect our district from inappropriate development. To further aid councillors in considering the draft Local Plan and its accompanying evidence alongside their other work, the September Planning Policy Committee will be postponed from 10th to 16th September. This is to provide an additional week’s preparation and reading time.

These are public meetings. If you would like to watch, please be aware that there is limited space in the room, but you can also watch via webcast - just head to YouTube, find the channel, click on it and hit 'Live'.

Should the extension request be submitted, we will need to continue with the current timetable until and if the Government responds positively. Officers are working hard to finalise the evidence base and the Regulation 19 draft. We will keep you updated.

27/08/2026

27/08/2026

FYI - There is no change with the waste collections with the Bank Holiday next week.

26/08/2026

Can you spare a few hours?

26/08/2026

🚀 Apprenticeship opportunities!

🚀 Apprenticeship opportunities!

Did you get your results today and are keen to develop your skills while gaining real-world experience? If so, our apprenticeships could be a great next step.

📍 Rochford District Council
📍 Brentwood Borough Council
🎓 Earn while you learn
💼 Gain valuable workplace experience
🌱 Develop your skills and build your career

Know someone in your family who might be interested? Please share this post with them 🙏

ℹ️ Apply online at: https://orlo.uk/HMjVV

25/08/2026

This Sunday 🧑‍🚒🤩

It’s almost time, this weekend 🎉🎉🎉
🗓️ Rochford Fire Station Open Day - 30 August 2026

You're invited to our fire station open day!

Come and meet our team, explore our fire station and find out more about how we work to keep the community safe.

There will be plenty of fun activities for all ages!

🚗 Parking is available at Back Lane car park

24/08/2026

Every Tuesday in Rochford Square!

24/08/2026

Important Notice - Please Share

We have been advised that this Friday's Games Afternoon - 28th August 2026 - has been cancelled at the Parish Rooms.

Apologise for any inconvenience.