Guardian News
Consultation on new town plan to start in March
9:00am Tuesday 21st February 2012
A NEW town plan, shaping the future regeneration of Winsford, will gather pace next month when it enters its initial stages.
The town council, with the help of Weaver Valley Board and Cheshire West and Chester Council, will be producing a ‘neighbourhood plan’ which will set out opportunities for regeneration and growth over the next 15 years.
The new plan will outline developments such as housing, leisure facilities, new shops as well as suggesting where they should go and how they should look.
Clr Brian Clarke, chairman of the neighbourhood plan steering group, said: “The big difference between the neighbourhood plan and previous plans is that it will be a plan for the town developed by the people of the town.
“The town council wants to make sure that everyone in Winsford knows about it and has an opportunity to influence it.
“When the final plan is available a referendum will be held and, quite simply, if people in Winsford don’t like it then it won’t be adopted.”
The town council was awarded £20,000 to kick start the project last year as part Government plans to introduce greater planning powers to local authorities under the new Localism Bill.
The first consultation event will be held between March 1 and 3 in Winsford town centre, at the former Clinton’s Cards shop.
Shoppers, workers and residents will have the chance to discuss their concerns and come up with ideas for regeneration.
At the same time, consultation workshops will be held with local businesses and groups such as the elderly and stakeholders.
The town council will also be hearing the views of the young people through projects with local schools.
Further events planned include, history and nature walks, to highlight the town’s heritage, as well as workshops and questionnaires.
Future consultation will continue throughout the year as the draft plan evolves.