Residents urged to complete neighbourhood plan questionnaire

A strong community voice should play a vital role in the regeneration of Port Royal and preserving the unique Sid Valley for future generations.

That is the message from members of the Neighbourhood Plan steering group, who are urging residents to complete questionnaires to have a say on what they like, dislike and would change about their town.

Feedback so far broadly focuses on a fear of over-development, preserving the vibrant seaside resort and its unique qualities, tourism and protecting the coastal environment.

Chairman of the Sid Valley Neighbourhood Plan steering group, Deirdre Hounsom said: “Most people value the opportunity to have their say and realise that, without the community pulling together, we will not be able to have a say in development.

“We feel these responses are particularly important in light of the fact that a scoping exercise for the regeneration of Port Royal has been started.”

Once adopted, the Neighbourhood Plan will form a legally-binding blueprint to influence future development in the area for 15 years and beyond. Responses from residents will shape the final plan.

When asked what they disliked about the Sid Valley, one person said: “Over-development of property tied to retirement.”

Future visions for the area focused on a ‘vibrant seaside town with clean, pollution free beaches’ and ‘a valley saved from the ravage of globalisation’.

Councillor Louise Cole, the committee’s deputy chairman, said: “It is so important that we capture the views of all sections of our community.”

Residents have until Monday, July 18, to complete the questionnaire. Visit www.sidmouth.gov.uk