Celebrating heritage, traffic calming measures and housing have all been outlined in a document shaping the future of Ottery and the surrounding area.
A draft of Ottery and West Hill’s Neighbourhood Plan is heading to public consultation and residents are being called on to give their thoughts.
The Neighbourhood Plan is a document that will form a blueprint to influence future development in the parish, once adopted.
The proposals have been split into six key areas, environment, community, economy, Ottery St Mary town centre, West Hill and smaller villagers.
In its proposals, the working group said “The vision for the Neighbourhood Plan is to protect and enhance the special qualities of the parishes of Ottery St Mary and West Hill and to provide a sustainable future for their economy, environment and communities.”
Through previous consultations, residents had raised concerns about traffic congestion in Ottery town centre, narrow road and pavements and inadequate parking facilities.
The working group said: “Ottery St Mary Town Council will continue to actively seek opportunities for enhanced car parking provision for residents and visitors.
“Once such opportunity may include a park and ride or park and walk service between Otter Nurseries and the town centre.”
The document also proposes to develop sports and play facilities and support youth facilities in the parishes by using any available funding.
The working group added: “Projects for children and young adults including the skate park, the Station Youth Centre will be encouraged and supported.
“Opportunities to broaden the appeal of these and/pr range of facilities will be actively sought.
This will be championed by the town and parish councils in discussion with local schools, churches and other voluntary groups EDDC and DCC.”
The consultation will run from May 19 until June 30. Residents will be able to drop in and discuss their views at a series of consultation sessions in the parish.
Alfington Village Hall, Saturday, June 3, 10.30am to 3pm.
West Hill Village Hall, Friday, June 9, 2.30pm to 7.30pm
Tipton St John Community Hall, Saturday, June 10, 10.30am to 3pm.
Wiggaton Church, Thursday, June 15, 10.30am to 3pm.
The Station, Ottery St Mary, Saturday, June 17, 10.30am to 3pm.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here