RESULTS from the Hartford Parish Plan questionnaire are now in, coinciding with the first draft of Hartford Civic Society's village design statement (VDS).
Both studies have highlighted key issues in the village that residents and businesses have raised following extensive research and consultation.
Some of the numerous themes detected in the Parish Plan survey, which had a 45 per cent response rate, included parking difficulties, traffic congestion, train services and the importance of open spaces and playing areas.
This was echoed in the VDS where development restrictions, conservation and village identity also emerged as significant issues.
Parish council chairman Richard Haffenden explained: "The design statement forms a significant part of the Hartford Parish Plan. The objective of the village plan is to produce a document set out to consider the views and aspirations of the parish residents."
"This will form an action plan based on the opinions of Hartford residents and businesses enabling the parish council to strengthen and enhance the quality of life for people living in the village."
Parish councillor Rita Hollens, head of the Parish Plan steering committee, said: "This helps us to take the holistic views of Hartford residents to the local authorities and it also makes the powers that be realise that we are working hard for the benefit of the village. It has also produced key areas that the parish council needs to address."
A VDS is designed to protect a village from having its appearance and character changed by future building developments. It is not, however, about stopping development.
A successful VDS will be adopted by Vale Royal Borough Council as supplementary planning guidance to work alongside the borough council's local plan in deciding if future developments get the go ahead.
If you would like to get involved with the village plan contact parish councillor Rita Hollens on 01606 871077, or Keith Sexton, VDS coordinator, via email at sexton@ukgateway.net
gsproston@guardiangrp.co.uk
