In
all, 39 replies from young people aged 8 to 17 were received. The young people
questioned seem to feel isolated from their peers, due in part by the large
number of schools they attend. They attended 10 different schools. They like
the quietness and the open spaces, the river, fields and wildlife. They also
liked the play area by the Anne Biddlecombe Hall. They disliked not being
able to meet other young people and 90% replied that there were not enough
activities for them in this area. They would like to have a youth club (many
requests), sports club, skate park, dirt ramps, more sports facilities i.e.
tennis, netball courts, concerts and discos in the Anne Biddlecombe Hall.
One ambitious youngster said they would like an ice rink. With regards to
safety, only one person said they felt good about cycling and walking on the
local roads. 60% said they felt moderately happy and 36% said they felt unhappy
walking and cycling on the local roads. Looking towards the future, 75% said
they would like to stay in the area, but could only do so if there were sufficient
higher education facilities (43%), local employment (39%) and low cost housing
(36%).
Recommendations
Establish a youth club
Build outdoor multi surface sports area to complement the existing play area
and indoor facilities
Develop liaison with other local youth clubs
Improve
safety on local roads.
Organise trips, sports events, discos and family activities.
Have a representative on the Parish Council. Having relevant input would assist
in
seeking funding from appropriate bodies
