Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Uttoxeter Echo. This column was originally featured in the 23rd June print edition.
With everyone looking forward to the pandemic being behind them, I know many of us are now turning our focus to the future and planning for what comes next. The G7 leaders recently met in Cornwall for a Summit to discuss how globally we see off coronavirus and build back better.
Closer to home, discussions continue about how we can regenerate our local areas and level up our high streets. I am pleased to say that East Staffordshire Borough Council is about to launch the next phase of consultation on its Uttoxeter Masterplan. The Masterplan was put together by the Council to identify opportunities to regenerate areas of Uttoxeter which need revitalising to ensure that the historic market town continues to be an attractive place to visit and live.
It is important to emphasise that the Masterplan is not a planning application seeking permission for development but intends to identify those areas of Uttoxeter which would value most from being regenerated and what that might entail. However, I have been clear throughout this process that residents must have their say on the Masterplan and sufficient consultation to share their own thoughts and ideas.
That is why earlier this year I wrote to every house in Uttoxeter asking residents to take part in my town Regeneration Survey. The response was phenomenal and I am pleased to say that feedback has been given to the Council and has had a direct impact on informing how this next stage of consultation will run.
As such, this stage of consultation will focus around the possible interventions on the four priority areas identified for regeneration. These are the Maltings Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, the Wheatsheaf and the Quarry. The consultation will allow residents to have their say on these sites, the Council’s own high level suggested options for them as well as contribute their own ideas for these areas.
The next stage of consultation will begin towards the end of June/early July and will include both online and in-person opportunities for residents to ensure their views are heard.
If you would like to receive updates on the Council's work on the Masterplan, do email [email protected] to be added to the mailing list and receive regular information on the consultation.
