The results of the final questionnaire for the latest Sid Valley Neighbourhood Plan were published today (Friday).

Results from the latest Sid Valley Neighbourhood Plan (SVNP) questionnaire were published today (Friday).

The second household survey of its kind had a 25 per cent response rate, with 1,863 questionnaires being returned, representing the largest ever survey of local opinion in the valley.

Residents highlighted the importance of retaining the historic appearance and local distinctiveness of the Sid Valley, with 90 per cent of people supporting the protection of key views like the seafront, the Byes, Salcombe Hill and Peak Hill.

Great importance was placed on the need for a balanced community that meets the needs of the whole population by proactively providing mixed housing, including affordable and social homes.

The level of allocated housing for the Sid Valley was deemed ‘about right’. However, people recognised the need for affordable homes for young people.

Overall, 83 per cent of respondents expressed desires to see new restrictions to address issues with empty second homes.

New housing on built-up area boundaries and on brownfield sites was also strongly supported.

And, people supported making use of brownfield sites, particularly for small-scale start-up businesses that provide quality employment.

Overall, 81 per cent supported additional small-scale employment space within the built-up areas, and 90 per cent support initiatives which make better use of the Alexandria Employment Site. A total of 93 per cent thought that encouraging young people to stay through the creation of quality employment opportunities was very important.

Community and culture was considered to be a vital, with 94 per cent wishing to protect public open spaces and 84 per cent supporting the provision of indoor and all weather accessible recreation spaces.

The SVNP team is now drafting policies based on their findings.

The resulting draft Neighbourhood Plan will then be consulted on by Sidmouth Town Council and East Devon District Council, as well as other relevant statutory bodies before going out for external inspection and finally a referendum.

Visit www.sidvalleyneighbourhood plan.com to see all the results.