Town Crier calls in the questionnaires
|
Alderholt Parish Plan
Initial enquiries and fact finding relating to formation of a parish plan began late 2004, following a consultation evening organised by Dorset Community Action. Members from local Parish Councils and Local Action Groups were brought up to date with the current successes achieved with the help and assistance of the DCA organisation. It set in motion the thought processes as to what can be achieved in a village, for the benefit of the community as a whole.
Initial approach was to discuss the proposal with the full Parish Council and to gain their commitment to the project. They agreed, and an initial consultation 'Awareness Evening' was arranged in February 2005. The format was to explain to all local business proprietors and principals of all the village organisations the outline of the plan, and to encourage comments and suggestions for consideration. A questionnaire was available during the evening for villagers to record their interest in becoming part of the Steering group. The Steering group was formed March 29th, at which time every residence in the Parish received a personal invitation to an 'Awareness Day' in the village hall on Saturday April 9th. This allowed the Steering group members to talk to villagers and ask questions as to their thoughts and current concerns, and also their aspirations for the future.
The information gathered during these preliminary fact finding events, formed the basis of the Alderholt Village Questionnaire. Included in the document, was a 'Special' section for young people aged 15 and under to record their particular views and concerns. Volunteer's delivered questionnaires to 1280 homes in the village, with a population of circa. 3200.
On the final day for the return of the questionnaires, the 8th October, we called on the vocal abilities of Town Crier Mike Andrews. He made 'Calls' all around the village to remind residents to return their envelopes to the local Spar store by 8pm. The photograph shows Mike, with four villagers listening to the 'News'.
The returned questionnaires register 41% of the total, and 97 returned from the young people. In many instances these will relate to more than one persons comments. These two figures are most encouraging, and we are now in the process of undertaking the analysis of the information.
In general, the analysis will fall under six headings as follows: 1. Environment & Footpaths etc. 2. Health, Education & Employment. 3. Housing & Village design. 4. Traffic, Transport & Infrastructure. 5. Village services & Community buildings. 6. Social issues & Crime & Safety.
This page will be updated when the further information is available.
Alderholt Parish Plan Steering Group.
October 21st 2005