Major changes for Pickering? (From Gazette & Herald)

Major changes for Pickering?

PICKERING is to follow Malton and Norton's lead in considering major changes, and residents are being handed a chance to help plan the future of the town.

A team has been set up through the Renaissance Market Towns Scheme to plan its future up to 2020, said Debbie Aubrook, the chairman of a newly-formed team set up to help drive the initiative forward.

Its members also include Coun Judy Dixon, the retiring Mayor of Pickering, Dr Tim Thornton, David Hoyle, a retired headteacher, town councillors Jill Murkett and Malcolm Jones, and local businessman Jim Bell.

A detailed questionnaire has been distributed to some 1,000 households and consultation meetings and an exhibition are planned.

"We want to get local people involved," said Ms Aubrook, a former member of Ryedale District Council.

Pickering Town Council gave its support to the idea of producing a blueprint and involving the residents when it met the town team this week.

The town team meets on May 25 at 7pm in the Memorial Hall, when the public are invited to attend. Further meetings are planned for June 8 and 22.

Among the issues raised in the Pickering 2020 vision is the potential to develop land south of the A170, including the former coalyard, Jewson's and Taylors premises, said Ms Aubrook.

A footbridge over the A170 has also been suggested to improve pedestrian safety.

"The draft vision document is going to be presented to the community over the next couple of months for further comment and amendment," said Ms Aubrook.

Updated: 11:36 Wednesday, May 12, 2004