A VISION for the future of Evesham has been warmly welcomed and approved by town councillors.
Members of Evesham Town Council met on Monday (March 16) to hear a presentation on the Evesham Town Plan which aims to present a blueprint which reflects the views and aspirations of residents.
Comissioning an independent town centre traffic study, establishing a network of cycle routes, the development of a ‘green plan’ and an anti-litter strategy for the town are among the top 12 priority areas.
The need for a clear housing strategy for the town within the South Worcestershire Development Plan is also highlighted while efforts should also be made to reinvigorate the Market Place and establish pleasant town centre locactions for indoors and out.
Work on the long-awaited plan began in 2013 and has consisted of public consultations led by members of the Evesham Our Future steering group.
Members have collected views from local residents over the past 18 months, hearing concerns about the town and possible solutions.
Steering Group chairman Patrick Staines told councillors: “Community led action is invariably positive. This is an opportunity for the town council to create a new approach on what the town council is here for.”
Coun Gerry O’Donnell backed the plan and said: “It’s a work plan for the next 20 years if you like.
“This gives us as a town council a map of where we are heading and where we hope to be heading.”
Town Mayor, Coun Charlie Homer thanked Mr Staines and the steering group for their work in producing the town plan.
“I think what we have is an extremely comprehensive plan for the town.” he added.
The Evesham Town Plan Steering Group will be presenting the documents to the public at the Town Hall next Monday (March 23) at 6.30pm.
Anyone interested is invited to attend and ask questions at this free event.
THE TOP 12 PRIORITY ACTIONS
1. Develop a clear housing strategy for the town within the South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP) which will provide the basis for influencing more integrated, sustainable and community-sensitive development.
2. Re-invigorate the Market Place and establish pleasant town centre locations for eating indoors and out.
3. Develop a central information hub to provide easy access to information about services, events and activities, including voluntary and charity sectors
4. Integrate social and health care services and increase local delivery
5. Enhance local clinical facilities to increase the diversity of treatment that can be provided locally within the community, and safeguard the community hospital.
6. Develop an anti-litter strategy for the town
7. Develop a Green Plan for the town
8. Promote Evesham’s investment potential to regional, national and international markets.
9. Target tourism promotion to the biggest spending markets.
10. Establish a network of cycle routes in and around Evesham
11. Commission an independent town centre traffic study
12. Attract a wide range of employers to offer more diverse apprenticeship, training and career opportunities.
