Tourism
Opinions were equally divided as to the need to encourage tourism within the parish, with the highest percentage being in favour of local Bed & Breakfast trade being expanded. There was, infact, a small majority against encouraging any new tourist attractions within the parish and only a very small number in favour of a large scale development.
Voluntary Work
It was obvious from the appraisal that many people in the parish perform a wide variety of voluntary work in such diverse areas as running the local swimming club, community organisations and caring for family members and neighbours.
The three most important factors which prompted the appraisal were the need for car parking and sports facilities and to improve the parish hall. The rest of this report is dedicated to these matters:
Parking
At least 10 years after the first discussions and the granting of outline planning permission for a car park on the school playground in conjunction with the creation of a new playground in a safer area behind the school, the question of car parking is still unresolved. 69% of respondents in favour show an overwhelming need to resolve the situation and a further 76% of people replying expressing the view that the street parking is inadequate, show a further need to come up with a solution quickly. Unfortunately there was no overall concensus as to where the car park should be sited although of the various option s considered, by far the greater majority favour the school playground solution. The second most popular option was the village green, with over 20 people suggesting this option. Several less practical solutions, such as an underground car park, were also put forward.
Parish Hall
Is the Parish Hall adequate for the needs of the parish?
Of those who felt the hall was inadequate an overwhelming 63% felt that a new hall was required with 30 % feeling that an extension would be sufficient and 9 out of 153 people felt that refurbishment was a valid solution.
It should be noted that without a suitable car park being provided, it will not be possible to obtain planning permission for a new hall.
With regard to fund raising for a new hall, a magnificent 137 people expressed a willingness to help - LOOK OUT - once we know who you are there will be no hiding place!!
Sport & Leisure
Indoor
If the new hall becomes a reality then there will be room to make provision for those who are interested in a wide variety of indoor sports. In particular there was good support expressed for badminton, keep fit and yoga. There was also good support for a snooker club.
Which indoor sports would you like to see a club formed for?
The appraisal has shown that there is a good number of volunteers willing to organise these variuos club and activities.
Outdoor
There is a great deal of interest for outdoor sport in the parish clearly showing the need to try and create a permanent facility. the parish is home to at least 60 budding cricketers, 50 footballers and 50 tennis players.
Would you like to see a club formed for the following outdoor sports?
Once again we are delighted to report there is a large number of volunteers who have expressed interest in helping these sports.
One other aspect that was highlighted by the appraisal was that over 60% of those replying felt that more use should be made of the existing school playing field and hard court.
