Safety and pollution top youth agenda for change

FEAR of crime and a cleaner environment were among the chief concerns of young people surveyed about the future of Ellesmere Port and Neston.

Staff from the borough council’s Planning Policy and Projects Unit visited local schools to get youngsters’ views on how the towns should be developed.

They asked for their opinions on issues such as the town centres, shopping, the environment, transport, public art and the need and location of new housing and other amenities. 

Safer communities and the need to reduce litter and pollution were considered most important by young people in Ellesmere Port, while improved public transport and better facilities topped Neston children’s agenda for change.

All age groups in both towns wanted to see better facilities that were cheaper for them to use. Popular suggestions for improving the towns included more greenery, electric cars and better sporting facilities.

The results of the 200 questionnaires will now feed into the process of drafting a blueprint for the future of the borough.

Planning Officer Lucy Hughes said carrying out the consultation had been very worthwhile.

“It was refreshing to hear different ideas delivered with much enthusiasm, and important to hear from a group of people who don’t always get their view heard,” she said.

“The children’s ideas will be reported to local councillors, and will help identify the key issues which the planners will need to address in the forthcoming Local Development Framework for Ellesmere Port and Neston.”

Schools visited were Ellesmere Port Specialist School of Performing Arts, Cambridge Road Primary, Whitby High School and Cheshire Oaks High School, while students at Neston High School and Wolverham Primary filled in questionnaires.

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Press release issued: January 2 2007