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Index
PUBLIC TRANSPORT Of those using public transport the majority (136) appeared reasonably satisfied with the service, although 72 were not satisfied, of which 77 were totally dependent upon the bus. More people stated that they would use the service if the timetabling and reliability were improved. Particular reference was made to having a better connection to Exeter at certain times of the day. 
Other suggestions for improving the service were, a pick up point in Moorview, a bicycle carrying facility, more rural routes, OAP prices and buses stopping anywhere on route to let people on or off.
87 people used the bus to travel to Okehampton or beyond for shopping trips.
The vast majority of young people stated that they experienced few difficulties in accessing after-school, evening or weekend social activities. However, an improvement to the bus service at these times would encourage its use further.
In responding to the use of alternative to the car in getting children to school, there were a few interested in a 'walking or virtual bus' (26).
"Better publicity - don't know when/where they go"
"A better time for return from Exeter - say 4pm"
"Better connections at Moorview"
"Live 1.5 miles from road, use car"
"0930 bus to Exeter always late! Why?"
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TRAFFIC AND HIGHWAYS In responding to the question on road safety, just over half of the residents (52%) feel that there are major danger spots in the area (the area comprising Hatherleigh Town and the outlying parish), with those who disagree or have no opinion being approximately (25%) in each group. There were a wide variety of danger spots identified, which require further analysis. In proposing further speed control measures in the area, 261 people supported speed restrictions as the favoured remedy. There were at least 195 suggested sites for speed control measures, and these will require detailed analysis. A number suggested, 'flashing signs' as in Samford Courtnenay or 20 mph in town. Most agreed the enforcement of the speed limit was a critical factor in deterring the reckless individual. The issue of car parking in the town is contentious, with 296 people in favour and 178 against further restriction, with 96 offering no opinion. There is recognition that parking in some areas, particularly on pavements, and at narrow junctions are unacceptable. However, a balance has to be made between restricting access to parking in the street to the convenience given to passing trade for the shops in the town, and residents near to their homes. 296 people suggested areas for specific parking restrictions require more detailed analysis. When asked about the need for a full pavement in South Street, 148 people were in favour, 255 were against and 167 offered no opinion. Not surprisingly, there was little support for car parking charges, with only 27 people in favour, 483 were against, and 60 offering no opinion. A reasonable proportion of people thought the state of the roads, pavements, and verges were in good condition. However there was some concern expressed about heavy goods vehicles encroaching onto the verges and pavements. "The parking in the town especially near the square is a serious problem and opposite High St in Market St" "The parking near the square is good for the people who live there" "Don't allow car parking charges in car park. You want to encourage visitors not discourage them" " No yellow lines - ban cars, horse drawn vehicles and bikes only"
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LOCAL GOVERNMENT
In responding to question of ensuring that local councillors are aware of residents concerns and feelings, the majority (255 people) contact individual councillors if they have a problem. Only 28 people expressed an interest in attending local council meetings. A further 137 people either telephoned, wrote letters, or e-mailed their representatives. 136 people have not felt the need to.
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ENVIRONMENT AND PLACES A high proportion of respondents felt the moor was in need of special protection, it was seen as a key asset to the town, and should continue to be farmed in a traditional way. There was some interest in creating community woodland near to the town, with 288 in favour, 63 against and 259 offered no opinion. At least a third of people would support an area for allotments, and a community-composting scheme. 241 people were in favour of an area to be put aside for pleasure gardens, with 90 against and 239 offered no opinion. The illumination of the church received support from 281 people 95 against, 261 offering no opinion. A similar scheme involving the monument received less support with 133 people against and 169 in favour. Other concerns were expressed for disabled access to Lower Moor Upper, improved landscaping of Island Park and the area around the market car park entrance. The idea put forward to create an all weather facility in the market square, received a mixed response, with 207 people in favour of a temporary covering, and only 114 in favour a permanent cover. "Keep Hatherleigh as a traditional Market Town. Don’t dolly it up with mazes etc!" "The square should have a cover so it can be used more" "Allotments needed – for people with no gardens to grow their own or just get away from things to do"
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CONCLUSION At the end of the questionnaire a whole page was available for further comments and suggestions to be made. 57 individuals took the opportunity to expand on some of the issues raised such as car parking, lack of youth facilities, future housing development and local transport. 10 people returned the slip at the tear off slip at the back of the questionnaire to offer their services to help in the community. One theme that ran through all the comments was of a community that was proud of its town and its achievements. Many recognised the balance that is required in the towns’ development is one of improving the economic and social well being of the individual without shattering the unique community spirit.
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