The Marwood Community Appraisal was delivered to all households in the Parish. 63% of questionnaires were returned - 152 households and a total of 418 people taking part. It was designed to give everyone an opportunity to express an opinion on a range of issues within the Parish.

The questions and issues raised produced a wide range of responses. Projects arising will require careful analysis and planning before they can proceed. It may not be possible to achieve all of the proposals but judging by the numerous offers of help and support, some issues can be brought to a successful conclusion. It is important that in any scheme the correct balance is achieved maintaining the rural identity whilst providing better amenities for all.

A Public Meeting will be a starting point for all those interested in tackling certain issues highlighted in the Appraisal.

There follows a brief analysis of the results. A more detailed version is available from Marwood Parish Council.

The age and gender split of the 418 people detailed in the survey was as follows:

Replies came from all areas with the highest % return always from those areas with greater density of population, perhaps reflecting a higher degree of community identity than elsewhere.

152 households recorded a total of 268 cars and 17 motorbikes, only 6 households having no vehicle.

Alternative housing was not deemed necessary but a small requirement for starter homes is anticipated for 4 - 10 years time to allow the younger generation of local people to remain in the area.

175 people would like to see a Parish Newsletter/Magazine. 65 people have volunteered their help with all aspects including distribution. 25 have been brave enough to identify themselves!

175 people out of 330 thought that the Parish Council was poor at publicising its decisions/activities although 259 admitted they had never attended a meeting and 152 said that they never look at the Parish Noticeboard.

Improved communications within the Parish would help overcome the drawbacks of such a scattered community. Advertising of local events would enable the ‘community spirit’ to thrive.

147 people would support the re-siting of the school to accommodate the school, community hall, parking and playing field on the same site. Sadly nobody could suggest somewhere suitable in the Parish.

The sporting pursuits listed would appear to have sufficient people interested as players, supporters and organisers so as to make local clubs viable. The provision of a good playing field and a suitable hall would allow such clubs to become reality. Such accommodation could also be used for adult education requirements.

32 people volunteered to help run a hall, 11 identified themselves. There was great emphasis that only a suitable hall, reasonably centrally placed, providing appropriate facilities and sufficient safe parking was a worthwhile consideration.