Archive - Wednesday, 15 January 2003


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Project to paint a picture of Pickering's future

AN AMBITIOUS project is being set up to focus on the future of Pickering over the next decade.

Masterminded by the town council, the aim is to influence decision-making in the popular tourist centre, says Andrew Husband, the town clerk.

A community group is to be formed comprising of residents and councillors and some 18 potential members have been identified from which a team to progress the idea will be created, he said.

"This group will produce a town plan, a detailed view of the aspirations and needs of the Pickering community," said Mr Husband.

Such issues as housing - whether Pickering should seek to increase its existing 6,500 population and what type of homes should be built - commercial and industrial development, highway schemes and facilities for residents, will all be included in the plan.

All households are to be sent a questionnaire, and residents will be asked to put forward their ideas.

The Countryside Agency is giving £5,000 towards the survey which will then be used to formulate policy ideas in conjunctions with a wide range of agencies and such organisations as North Yorkshire County Council, Ryedale District Council and the Yorkshire Rural Community Council.

"The long-term aim is enhance Pickering's economy and the quality of life and job opportunities for residents," said Mr Husband.

"The town council believes that the best decisions on issues concerning the future development of Pickering result from giving residents a share of the decision-making themselves."

The major development in Malton Road of the conference and exhibition centre, which Ryedale District Council recently approved, the question of whether there should be further light industrial and commercial development in the area and traffic congestion will be among the issues to be tackled by the community group.

"The aim will be to highlight the objectives raised by the residents and prioritise them working with the various authorities and agencies which operate in Pickering," said Mr Husband.

Updated: 11:17 Wednesday, January 15, 2003