Parishes, villages, towns, neighbourhoods are constantly changing. We cannot prevent change but what we can do is influence it. A parish or community-led plan helps us to manage change and to have a greater say in our own affairs and in the future of where we live.
The process of doing a plan is in 9 steps and sets out to:
- Identify the key facilities, services, activities that you value and would like to safeguard for the future;
- Identify local problems, issues, concerns to be addressed;
- Make it clear how you want your parish, village or town to develop in the future;
- Create a plan of projects and actions (the Action Plan) that will help you achieve this vision.
The Plan should look at all aspects of local life – the environmental, social and economic elements that are relevant now and in the future and have an impact on people’s lives. It can, therefore, cover topics ranging from support for small businesses to playgrounds, social care needs of older residents to increasing the use of local shops and businesses, transport and mobility issues to improved communications, and community facilities to open spaces. It is up to you to define the topics and your priorities.
The final plan of actions and projects is based on information, data and evidence collected through survey, research and community participation. During the process, everyone should have the opportunity to voice their opinions on what actions they wish to see taken in the local area in the future.
Steering Group
The Steering Group for the Kings Worthy Parish Plan was formed in January 2009, from local people keen to work together to create a Parish Plan for Kings Worthy. Currently it comprises 7 members, including two Parish Councilors together with representatives from:
Kings Worthy Primary School
Neighbourhood Watch
Worthys Conservation Volunteers
Worthies Sports and Social Club
Worthy’s Youth Football Club
The Plan has now reached Step 3.
Originally the Steering Group formed itself into four focus groups covering the environment, facilities, transport and demography / housing. At its August 2009 meeting it was agreed to add 'Law and Order’ to this list, which all the group members will contribute to.
The Plan is moving forward and it would be helpful if more people from the village would come forward to support the full consultation process. Delivering and collecting questionnaires, publicity skills, data collection are just a few of the needs that will be required.
Getting Involved in Your Parish Plan
To get involved in your Parish Plan the Steering Group can be contacted at info@parish-plan.com at anytime. Alternatively contact Cllr D Smithers via the Parish Council Office email: kwpc@btconnect.com or Tel 884150 for more information.
A Parish Plan website has been set up, www.parish-plan.com which provides detailed progress of the Plan, together with information and documentation as it becomes available.
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