Presentation of Draft Plan by Arcadis
Speaker: Arcadis
Minutes:
The presentation discussed the Town Investment Masterplan. Some key interventions suggested are: part acquisition of the ‘employment zone’ identified in the presentation, and early infrastructure to deliver the site; Developing the car park at the train station to make a larger, safer, more secure, well-lit and accessible car park to encourage people from further afield to use train station; Develop housing around the High Street, identifying a number of sites such as the current market site and surrounding areas for urban regeneration; Create a major market square feature to improve the makeup of the High Street; Create a cultural community area, including a community orchard, play areas, and open arena for theatre; Developing a community hub near this space for a skills and health hub, which also addresses COVID-19 recovery.
The Town Investment Plan has to be submitted by the 30th October.
It was proposed that digital development and technology is referenced in the Town Investment Plan as being key to promoting business growth, skills, and employment opportunities.
It was proposed to form a subgroup of board members, which could seek to identify additionality for the proposals and priorities identified for inclusion in the Town Investment Plan bid.
It was proposed that Claire link in with Matthew Stephens with a view to reinvigorating the business forum.