Oswestry Town Plan 2006

Contents

Oswestry profile 1

What is a town plan? 3

The Launch 4

Consultation and methodology 6

How will we progress the Town Plan 11

Ward Action Plans 15

Likes and needs of local people 31

Results of youth questionnaire 35

Links with proposed Community Strategy 36

Cover Photograph Courtesy of RuralScapes

Chairman’s Foreword

“Good plans shape good decisions. That’s why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true.” Lester R. Bittel: The Nine master Keys of management

The greatest strength of any community lies not in the council structures nor in the leadership of elected officials, but in the ability of people to achieve things for themselves, with the Council/s and Councillors there to help smooth the road.

There are many examples of this in the town one being Eastern Oswestry Community Centre, which exists because local people saw a need and filled it, with the backing of the Councils.

Therefore the creation of the Plan is not the end: it is a powerful means to an end: to improve the quality of life for all those who live, work and visit Oswestry. It is not necessarily the ultimate expression of the community’s ideas, but it is a definitive snapshot!

The Plan is not just a road map for the local councils – Town, Borough and County to work to. The journey has to be a shared one with everyone who lives, works or visits the town.

The community is challenging their Councils to meet their needs and share their dreams and aspirations. In their turn, the Councils will be challenging the community to work together with the Plan – and them. “Ask not what the Town Plan can do for you – ask rather what you can do for your Town Plan.”

There are actions which can best be undertaken by volunteers coming forward. There are actions which can best be undertaken by groups and societies acting either on their own, or with others, and yes, there are actions which perhaps only one of the Councils can achieve. There are actions for the area, and for each part of the area which, if achieved, will answer the concerns and help meet the needs and fulfil the objectives of this document.

I believe that this is a good Town Plan, which will shape good decisions from everyone, so that together we can make those elusive dreams come true.

Councillor Martin Bennett, March 2006

Profile of Oswestry Borough

Some Key Facts and The Borough of Oswestry is a predominantly rural area covering 25,608 Figures hectares (100 square miles) and has a population density of 1.51 persons per hectare, compared to the national figure of 3.85. The market town of At mid year 2004, Oswestry, which serves as the principal commercial and administrative centre Oswestry Borough for the local population and for a wider catchment of around 75,000 extending had a population of into mid Wales, is close to major road networks, including the A5. 38,600

The population of Oswestry at mid-year 2004, was 38,600, the lowest This represents an increase of 4,300 population for a Shropshire District. It has experienced an increase in people since 1991 population of 4,300 people (12.5%) since 1991. As there have been 600 more deaths than births since 1991, the growth in population can be accounted for Migration into the by migration into the district. Oswestry District accounts for 13.4% of area accounts for the Shropshire’s population (excluding Telford & Wrekin). population growth

These age groups have decreased since 1991: In 2004, there were 7,600 children and Pre-school children by - 300 (11.4%) 31,000 adults Young adults (16-29) by - 900 (13.6%) The number of retired

people has increased These age groups have increased since 1991: by 16.5% since 1991 whilst the number of Adults 30 to 44 years age by 1,400 (20.5%) children has grown by Adults 45 years to retirement age by 2,100 (30.2%) half that rate Females above 74 by 300 (19.3%)

In 2004, there were 7,600 children in Oswestry, making up 19.7% of the * Registrar General's Mid-Year population. There were 22,800 (59.1%) people of working age and 8,200 (21.2 Population Estimates, National %) people of retirement age. The number of people of retirement age has Statistics, © Crown Copyright. National Statistics offer no increased by 1,200 (16.5%) since 1991 and the number of children (0 -15) in warranty as to the accuracy of Oswestry has increased by 600 (7.9%). The working age population has these estimates. increased by 2,600 people (12.7%).* Notes: The 1991 and 2000 mid- year estimates have been

Key Challenges

2001 census revealed 18.7% of Oswestry BC’s population had a limiting long-term Population breakdown of Oswestry Town wards illness, up from 13% in 1991

5.6% of households are lone parent households with dependent children – the Ward Population % of % of Number of highest in Shropshire (2001 population population dwellings The Borough also has the census) that is male that is second highest number of lone female pensioner households in Cabin Lane 2,330 49 51 959 Shropshire at 15.3%

58.6% of Oswestry SOA’s* fall Cambrian 2,346 47 53 1139 within the highest 50% of deprived areas nationally with Gobowen and Castle ward Carreg 2,764 47 53 1101 falling within the 30% most Llwyd deprived in England Castle 2,634 47 53 1298 The median gross weekly earnings for full time workers Gatacre 2,939 48 52 1340 in Oswestry in 2004 were £367.20. Those working in rural areas have the lowest Maserfield 2,600 48 52 1188 median hourly wage rates. There are large numbers of low earners in the rural economy across all districts**

SOAs or Super Output Areas are a new geography for the collection and publication of small area statistics. Previously, statistics were reported for wards – SOA’s are a standard size making comparisons easier

** Rural Development Programme for England 2007 - 1013 2

Introduction Rural White Paper, Our There is a revolution going on in local government and town councils are at the core of it. The Countryside – The Future government wants local communities to take more control of their own lives, to say what they want doing in their neighbourhoods and to engage with other powers to get it done. In November 2000, the Government’s Rural What is a Town Plan ? White Paper, Our Countryside – The In 2000 the Government's Rural White Paper ‘Our Countryside, the Future' suggested that all Future, launched the rural communities should develop ‘Town, Village and Parish Plans' to identify both problems concept of parish and Town Plans whose and opportunities for rural services and to provide community input into the new planning purpose is to: system. A Town Plan is a way of summarising what local people think about the area they live in. It “set out a vision of what considers local social, economic and environmental issues affecting the community and is important, how new suggests how they would like to see them improved in the future. The results of consulting development can best be fitted in, the design and with the community are written up, setting out actions that should be taken to address the quality standard it should priorities, and it indicates who should do what and when by. meet, how to preserve valued local features and to map out the facilities Developing the town plan which the community In March 2004, the Oswestry Market Town Partnership held a Forward Planning Day for the needs to safeguard for the future.” Market Town Initiative (MTI) Programme that was due to be completed in July the same year. From the discussions with representatives from the local council’s community groups and Plans should: retailers, it was evident that, although the MTI had addressed many of the needs for Oswestry, there were actions still to be identified. It was agreed that the Market Town “identify key facilitIes Partnership would lead the production of a town plan for Oswestry. and services, set out the problems that need to be It was recognised that the task was challenging, there being six wards within the town centre tackled and demonstrate area. Discussions took place between Oswestry Borough and Town Councils and it was how distinctive character agreed that funding a dedicated officer to coordinate activity would ensure that a uniform and features can be approach was taken across the town. preserved.”

Building on the What Happened Next Foundations of the Community Strategy An application was made to the Community Council of Shropshire for funding to cover the cost of producing the plan and Oswestry Borough Council and Oswestry Town Council The first Community confirmed support of an officer post. Strategy for Oswestry was produced in 2003.

At an early stage, the Town Plan steering group was conscious that a great deal of research Councillor Martin Bennett, Chairman of the had already been completed by various local organisations. It was recognised that Oswestry Oswestry Community Borough Council had investigated the needs of local people as an integral part of the Partnership, in his development of the Community Strategy for Oswestry 2005-2015 and that delivery partners foreword to the second for the specified actions had already been identified. It was agreed that the Town Plan should strategy covering the follow the same themes as in the Community Strategy, these being: period 2005 – 15 said that in the intervening economic and environment two years: health, well-being and older people “we have begun to safer, stronger communities achieve great things, children and young people through bringing together partners form all the sectors and areas that affect the quality of The Oswestry Community Strategy had taken into account the work completed by other life for ourselves and our agencies in the town and it was envisaged at the outset that the Oswestry Town Plan would fellows…… endorse the actions identified in the Oswestry Community Strategy and also the softer issues affecting the residents’ quality of life. … …we have also learned a great deal, about how the community plan The Launch should be measured, monitored and fine- Extensive press coverage promoted the concept of a town plan and a launch meeting was tuned.” arranged at the Marches School on June 22. Invitations were sent to all local organisations and voluntary groups with posters being distributed to encourage local residents to attend. Prior to the event, Shropshire Radio put out extensive coverage to promote the launch.

The meeting was well attended and members of the community came forward to set up a steering group. Representation was from Oswestry Town Council and Oswestry Borough “It’s important Council, the Community Council of Shropshire, local businesses, the voluntary sector and the that residents existing Oswestry Market Town Partnership. The group agreed a work plan and designed a have the pilot questionnaire which was distributed to local groups. opportunity to have their say in the future Ward Meetings of their town - Town Plan ward meetings were scheduled in each of the wards involved to commence in July it was great to 2005 through to December 2005. Fliers were distributed to houses within the specific wards see so many doing to promote the formulation of the Oswestry Town Plan. The meetings were supported by just that.” town borough and county councillors. The evenings were facilitated by the Oswestry Market County Councillor Town Initiative Officer and the public was given an opportunity to debate what was needed to Phil Box improve life within their wards. This was followed by a session discussing what could be done to improve the economic development within the area. In the final session, people were “Being involved asked what they liked about the town. in voluntary The majority of the wards had many themes in common. Action Plans were subsequently groups in the drawn up to support the ideas and needs of local people. (See Appendix 1) town, it was nice to hear what people wanted. Town Centre Event The fact we discussed the During the summer, Shropshire County Council offered funding for a further Streets Ahead good things about Festival. The event was to celebrate the completion of the street enhancements and the pedestrianisation of the town. This was seized upon by Oswestry Borough Council as an ideal opportunity to focus on the retail sector. The event was organised and managed by the Market Town Initiative Officer as an opportunity to promote the Oswestry Town Plan. The event brought thousands of visitors to the town and provided free street entertainment. Visitors and local residents were invited to give feedback about the town and suggest improvements to their shopping experience.

“It’s vital that Wider Consultation with Rural Hinterland local Discussions with the public at the launch event and the town centre event highlighted the communities are need to take into account the views of visitors and people from the rural hinterland who use involved in the town as a service centre. This was achieved at the following public consultations: decision making

about their

area”

Let’s Talk- Shropshire County Council Carol Tiddy,

Shropshire CC Shropshire County Council hosted a Let’s T a lk even t a t a loca l ho tel in O ctober 2005. Members of the public were invited to attend the debate and put forward their views as to what would improve life in Oswestry. The Oswestry Town Plan Steering Group was invited to provide display boards for the event detailing the work in progress. During the debate, a number of issues were discussed relating to the area covered by the Town Plan.

Oswestry Learn and Earn The Town Plan Steering group was invited to have a stand at a town centre event organised by the local office of Job Centre Plus. The event was held to encourage local employers, training providers and people seeking work to come together to discuss their options. During the day, approximately 200 people attended the event. Information was distributed promoting the work being undertaken on the Town Plan. Comments were invited and the forthcoming ward meetings were advertised.

Consultation Week ” It was good to talk to people In November 2005, a week of consultation was held in various locations around the town. and hear that These events were supported by volunteers from the community who assisted at the display many of them were stands. Local people were invited to take part in a mapping exercise to endorse issues raised in the ward meetings. Owen Paterson, MP for Oswestry, attended one of the road shows and proud to live in demonstrated his commitment to the success of the project. Oswestry.” Paul Shevlin, Chief Executive, The following locations for consultation were chosen in order to maximise contact with residents: Owen Paterson, MP, at one of the

KwikSave Supermarket Oswestry Leisure Centre The Cheese Company Oswestry Market Sainsbury’s Supermarket Oswestry Saturday Market Walford and North Shropshire College Priority Questionnaire

The steering group met to discuss the progress with the project office and agreed that it was “I wasn’t vital to get the opinions and views of the residents. surprised to see that people had A pilot questionnaire was designed and the project officer distributed this at the meetings she plenty of attended with established community groups. The response to the pilot questionnaire led the thoughts and steering group to widen the priorities covered. The revised questionnaire was distributed to ideas on how our 7000 households and collection boxes were placed in community facilities and retail outlets to town should encourage participation in the exercise. develop.”

To extend the reach of the questionnaire it was also made available on Oswestry Borough “I think that Council’s website. Press releases and radio coverage were used to promote the Town Plan and Oswestry should encourage participation in the exercise. In total 490 (7%) questionnaires were returned and spend more on the results were analysed with the help of a local volunteer. Interestingly the majority of leisure emerging priorities mirror the proposed actions in Oswestry Borough Council’s Community facilities; also Strategy (See Appendix 3). open space should be used for Consulting Young People recreational facilities.” Throughout the consultation, an overriding need to focus on young people was clear. Robin, Marches Local junior schools were asked to provide their pupils’ views on what they would like to see School provided in the town and secondary schools were asked to support the Town Plan by encouraging pupils to complete the questionnaire in school time. The team also went to “There should be Walford and North Shropshire College’s Oswestry Campus to engage with students and more enthusiastic investigate what was needed in the town. entertainment for A youth questionnaire was designed with input from Oswestry Youth Council and local youth young people, organisations. Oswestry Leisure Centre offered a prize of a swim card draw to encourage organised by completion. In total, 193 questionnaires were completed by a sample of pupils from Marches young people for School & Technology College and Oswestry School. Local junior schools were asked to provide their pupil’s views. This was by way of presentations to year 5 and 6 pupils. Woodside Primary School and Beech Grove School assisted in preparing a detailed wish list of their needs. It was encouraging that young people share the vision of adults and provided input on a range of issues. The information provided by our young people will be passed on to the appropriate organisations and will help shape future provision of amenities and facilities in the town. Please see appendix 2

Consulting Businesses Oswestry Town Centre is flanked by industrial areas which range in size. The Oswestry Town Plan Steering Group felt that their needs had to be taken into account in order to secure the 24% economic future of the town. Working in partnership with Business Link West Mercia, a 17% questionnaire was distributed to 1736 businesses based in the Oswestry Area. The aim of the questionnaire was to gain a better understanding of the needs of local business. Business Link West Mercia will use the results to assist in the further development of the services they 20%

offer. 13% General Business ideas

The majority of respondents felt that economic conditions in the UK will remain roughly the 2% 20% 4% same over the next two year. A quarter of respondents think that economic conditions in the UK will decline over this period, with roughly the same amount thinking that they will 2% improve.

When asked what they thought would make Shropshire better places for business to thrive, a Gene ral B u sine ss Ide a s wide range of factors were thought to be of importance. Responses made reference to the

challenges in recruiting skilled staff, a fact that is confirmed by DEFRA. Fi nanc e

The most common lengths of trading time for the 58 respondents were less than 3 years. Leg isla tion

This is as expected from a survey offering business support and advice. 66% of respondents P eopl e I ssu es wanted their business to grow. More than a quarter wanted to stay about the same size/consolidate. The average turnover of respondents’ organisations was £225,529. 48% of E -C o mm e rce and I T

respondents said that their turnover had increased over the past two years. 70% of In terna tio nal T rade companies had no turnover from outside the UK. Only 30% of these non-exporters were interested in exporting in the future. For 11% of respondents, more than 50% of their S a le s and Market in g turnover resulted from business outside the UK.

Many different approaches to personal development/staff training were deemed to be beneficial. However, part-time courses were the most popular option. A high number of Results of a Business Link WM respondents were interested in subsidised personal development and/or staff training. Survey of the Principal

interest/need expressed by Most respondents asked for advice and practical help on at least one subject area. The most respondents commonly sought areas of help were concerned with general business ideas, sales and marketing; and e-commerce and IT.

Civic Society Comment “Local Development Framework” (LDF) The Civic Society supports the continuation of the There is a link between the ‘Town Plan’ and the ‘Local Plan’ (now known as the Local conservation, enhancements Development Framework). The LDF is the development plan for the Borough, and will guide and continued use new development in the area over the next 15 years. It is currently being prepared by the of Oswestry’s older Borough Council. The LDF is used by the Council to guide its decisions on planning buildings, and applications. It also ‘allocates’ sites for development (such as housing and employment uses) at the same time, believes and for other uses of land, including open space. that the town will benefit immeasurably Interestingly within the action plan there is little reference to the provision of housing within from the principles of the Town plan this is due to the fact that the two consultations were completed good design being applied simultaneously. Residents were advised to attend the LDF events to ensure that their to all aspects of the concerns were identified. built environment.

The Council has also been developing this evidence base by carrying out surveys and studies to gather important information on the area and to see what planning policies or land allocations are needed as a result. It has completed studies on the following areas, all of which have added significantly to our knowledge of the future requirements in the area :- Comments from questionnaires • future Retail development in the town; • an audit and needs assessment for Open Space, Sport & Recreation “Do not turn Oswestry • a Housing Needs Survey, identifying the type and level of affordable housing required into an urban sprawl.” locally • a study of Employment Land needs “Further develop of the • an Urban Housing Capacity study. alleys which connect streets” Crucially, the policies in the LDF will be one of the most important ways of implementing the priorities which are emerging from the Town Plan. There will be policies in the new LDF which “Stop building very seek to achieve ‘planning gains’ from developments – including open space, play areas, expensive houses which are playin g fields and affordable housing – issues which have been identified in the Town Plan. unsuitable for local people”

Th t b

How will we progress the priorities

The process of creating the plan has not been as easy. The Town is much bigger, and is effectively split into 6 local communities. There are different needs to consider – business, residential, our young people, and the many, many groups and societies who contribute to the life of Oswestry. We have engaged in the most relentless consultation exercise ever carried out – with ward meetings, talks to groups, questionnaires handed out and delivered to each home, and separate surveys for different groups.

The views that have been expressed over the consultation are a comprehensive and clear expression of wants and needs from a wide range of people. The Market Town Partnership will work closely with the identified partners and identify a time frame for the priorities. In some cases these priorities are the statutory responsibilities and although we can request action there may be good reasons, such as more compelling priorities, why the issue can't be dealt with. An example of this would be the reference to issues relating to inappropriate parking and speeding traffic.

This report will be used as a baseline for activity and will be reviewed on an annual basis to assist in agreement of future activity. It will also be a useful tool for community groups and other organisations to investigate identified needs. Funding bodies can provide financial assistance, councils may provide officer support, but it is evident that some improvements simply rely on people taking responsibility for their own future and that of their families.

The Town Plan Steering Group will issue a newsletter to residents to identify what immediate action will be taken and encourage people to get involved. We will revisit the wards and assist local groups to develop their ideas into actions and draw on the other organisations to assist.

This report will be available in pdf format on Oswestry Borough Councils website, CD and also in large print

Organisations contacted/consulted

Oswestry Borderland Tourism Limited Round Table Oswestry Memorial Hall Ruralscapes Oswestry Senior Citizens’ Club Arriva Transport SureStart Monkmoor Court Residents’ Hope House Childrens’ Hospice Association Connexions Plas Ffynnon Millennium Green Oswestry Olympians Oswestry & District Civic Society Oswestry & District Access Group Black Lion Colts Business Link West Mercia Oswestry Market Traders’ Association The Bell Football Club Oswestry Army Cadets Churches Together Cae Glas Cricket Club Just Credit Union St Oswald’s Mothers’ Union Golden Lion Football Club Campaign for Rural England Oswestry Ramblers Association Oswestry & District Guide Group Oswestry Community Action Castlefields Residents’ Association Oswestry & District Chamber of Oswestry Civil Service Retirement Eastern Oswestry Community Centre Commerce Group Centre North West Oswestry Community Partnership Beth Johnson Housing Association Cambrian Railway Trust Oswestry Citizens’ Advice Bureau Trident Housing Association Oswestry Furniture Scheme Oswestry Cycling Club Oswestry & District Scout Group County Training Homestart Oswestry Woodside School PTA Shropshire Paddles Sports Shropshire Youth Association Rotary Club Homeless in Oswestry Action St Oswalds Parish Centre Partnership

Meetings Attended

Oswestry & District Neighbourhood Watch Oswestry Asian Parent Network

Oswestry Professional Womens’ Network Oswestry Youth Café

Learn & Earn half day event Kingswell Centre

Oswestry Ladies’ Probus Club Oswestry Youth Council Oswestry Mens’ Probus Club Oswestry Senior Citizens’ Forum

Oswestry Allotment and Garden Society Meadowbrook Court Group Oswestry U3A Woodside School, years 5 & 6

Oswestry Croesowalt Ladies’ Group Beechgrove School Council Oswestry St Oswald’s Mens’ Breakfast Club Oswestry Retail Forum

Oswestry Border Gymnastics Club Oswestry Play Partnership Shropshire County Council Let’s Talk Event Oswestry Methodist Church Mother & Toddler Group Oswestry Community Partnership

Local Businesses and Others Consulted

Abbey National Building Society JJ Dell & Co Boots Barclays Bank Halls Estate Agents The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Ltd Brittania Building Society Your Move Curry Nationwide Building Society Plas Ffynnon Medical Group Upstairs Downstairs HSBC Cae Glas Medical Practice Aroma Café Gough-Thomas & Scott Oswyn House Dental Practice Argos Longueville Gittins Willow Street Dental Practice Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Hospital Gwilym Hughes Brown& Lloyd Turner Peachey Richard Burbidge Morris Holdings (UK) Ltd DRE & Co Somerfield Lindstrand Balloons Ltd Geraint Humphries & Co Kwik Save BT TNS KA Evans & Co Ltd Sainsburys The Cheese Company Ltd Morris Cook Halfords Focus NatWest Bank

Local Schools & Colleges Consulted

Beech Grove School Our Lady of St Oswald School Marches School and Technology College Oswestry Infants School Meadows Primary School Walford and North Shropshire College

Woodside Primary School Oswestry School

CABIN LANE WARD - ACTION PLAN APPENDIX 1

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Consultation with young people to Local Schools Provide activities for young Young people want local consider provision of facilities for OBC Sports Development Officer. people activities. people that will be used. Shropshire County Council – Children Central register of existing youth & Young Peoples’ Services activities within the area accessible on designated web sites and in paper format Enhance appearance of Less litter and dog fouling All partners Promote civic pride the area Promote respect for property Oswestry Market Town Partnership

Set up working party to develop Oswestry Borough Council Play facilities for older Increase usage and creative ideas Oswestry Town Council children empower individuals with Sport England recreational activities Big Lottery Fund Consult and consider residents’ and Skate park users’ opinion and preference for the Unicorn field site

Learning and Skills Council Raise expectation to Improve self-worth of Take up of available learning LeranDirect encourage learning and community Walford and North Shropshire College development Prince’s Trust Job Centre Plus

Protect and nurture newt Protected ponds require Set up working party to develop Shropshire Wildlife Trust colonies attention creative ideas English Nature Oswestry Borough Council Oswestry Town Council

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Develop links with isolated Raise awareness of local Full inclusion Eastern Oswestry Community Centre residents opportunities Qube Oswestry Stop illegal / inappropriate Causes obstruction, Safer for pedestrians West Mercia Constabulary parking close to Meadows dangerous Reduce risk of accidents Shropshire County Council Traffic School Management Meadows School

Reduce speeding traffic Dangerous Speed reduction Shropshire County Council Highways Henley Drive / Aston Way Dept

Reduce litter Cabin Lane Co- Broken glass and litter Cleaner streets Co-op op causes obstruction Oswestry Borough Council Recycling provision within Need identified Central recycling point Oswestry Borough Council ward Provision of play equipment Limited existing provision Play equipment in designated areas Oswestry Borough Council for under 5’s Oswestry Town Council The Big Lottery Promote walking routes to Concern regarding Facilitation of road safety training Shropshire County Council school volume of traffic and Encourage walking Safer Routes to Schools inappropriate parking in Kerbcraft school areas Review street cleaning Considered to be Monitor existing provision and revise Oswestry Borough Council excessive in some areas Consider provision of Need identified Good use of Buffer Zone Oswestry Borough Council designated dog walking area Shropshire County Council on buffer zone Appropriate use of visibility Unofficially used as play Appropriate use made clear Oswestry Borough Council splay Ascot/ Henley area. Considered Re-design Shropshire County Council dangerous Provision of retail and Ward expanding and Retail , doctor’s and chemist Feasibility study services within the ward need identified

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Expand and develop tourism in Improve economic Increase visitor stay and numbers Oswestry Borderland Tourism Limited Oswestry growth Promote cultural diversity Oswestry Borough Council Improve employment Capitalise on unique assets of the Oswestry Town Council opportunities area Develop innovative approach to marketing Consider tourist products and facilities Provide more opportunity for Improve economic Access to IT and video conferencing Business Link Enterprise Team business start ups and existing growth Availability of local training facilities Oswestry Market Town Partnership Small/medium enterprise Improve employment Oswestry Borough Council (SME’S) opportunities Switch on Shropshire

Proactively seek inward Improve economic Improve employment opportunities Oswestry Borough Council investment from large growth Retain key workers Shropshire County Council employers Improve employment Advantage West Midlands opportunities Shropshire Investment Bureau

Encourage occupancy of vacant Improve economic Proactive promotion of availability Oswestry Market Town Partnership shops growth Upgrading of listed structures Oswestry Borough Council Enhance appearance of Oswestry Town Council town Oswestry & District Chamber of Commerce Extend Use of Oswestry Powis Recognised as a possible The opportunity to provide services Oswestry Market Town Partnership Hall Market area for economic use to accommodate identified gaps Oswestry Borough Council Promote Local To Oswestry in local provision Oswestry Town Council produce Craft fairs, antique markets and RuralScapes boot sales Provision of Park & Ride or Limited parking Park & Ride Oswestry Borough Council shopping route service availability in town Publicised to encourage use Oswestry Town Council centre

CAMBRIAN WARD - ACTION PLAN

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Consultation with young people to Local Schools Provide activities for young Young people want local consider provision of facilities for OBC Sports Development Officer. people activities people that will be used. Shropshire County Council – Children & Young People’s Services Central register of existing youth Local youth groups activities within the area accessible on designated web sites and in paper format Improved sense of pride Oswestry Market Town Partnership Promote civic pride Enhance appearance of Promotion of respect Oswestry Borough Council the area Development of a small grant fund Oswestry Town Council

Protect Shelf Bank Ensure the area is kept Continue support to develop creative Oswestry Borough Council as public open space ideas. Oswestry Town Council Northern Shropshire Countryside Service English Nature Reduce anti-social behaviour Distresses local residents Reduced noise Oswestry Crime Reduction Partnership caused by pub/club goers Lowers tone Improved appearance of town Oswestry Licensed Victuallers in town centre Support festivals and events Encourages visitors Expand existing festivals Oswestry Market Town Partnership Promotes area e.g. Xmas Live, Music Live, Home Oswestry Borough Council Makes people happy Front Oswestry Town Council Opportunity for Maximise cultural distinctiveness Oswestry Borderland Tourism Ltd community involvement Provide more public toilets in Lack of facilities Investigate partnership working with Oswestry Town Council town centre local traders Oswestry Borough Council Local Business

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Stop illegal / inappropriate Causes obstruction, Safer for pedestrians West Mercia Constabulary parking Brookhouse Close dangerous Reduce risk of accidents Shropshire County Council Traffic area Management

Reduce speeding traffic Dangerous Speed reduction Shropshire County Council Highways Coney Green Dept

Reduce litter from drinkers Broken glass and litter Cleaner streets Oswestry Crime Reduction returning from evenings out causes obstruction Partnership Oswestry Borough in town Coney Brookhouse Council Area Improve appearance of Barren site Restricted evening access Oswestry Town Council central car park Used by cars as race Improved planting Oswestry In Bloom Committee circuit in evenings Excessive take away litter Information required re major Rumour and myth Continue to issue press releases and Oswestry Borough Council developments within the town distracting from inform partners of developments Oswestry Town Council e.g.health village proposals proposed benefits Local Press Leisure centre Support Cambrian Station Develop a tourism hub Distinctive gateway to town All partners building development for the town Functional building that will serve visitors to the town Enhance Watts Dyke & Recognised as an area of Enhancement of site English Heritage improve walking routes natural importance Improved interpretation Shropshire County Council Oswestry Town Council Expand and develop tourism Improve economic Increase visitor stay and numbers Oswestry Borderland Tourism in Oswestry growth Promote cultural diversity Limited Improve employment Capitalise on unique assets of the Oswestry Borough Council opportunities area Oswestry Town Council Develop innovative approach to marketing Consider tourist products and facilities 19

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Proactively seek inward Improve economic Improve employment opportunities Oswestry Borough Council investment from large growth Retain key workers Shropshire County Council employers Advantage West Midlands Shropshire Investment Bureau Provide more opportunity for Improve economic Access to IT and video conferencing Business Link Enterprise Team business start ups and growth Availability of local training facilities Oswestry Market Town Partnership existing Improve employment Oswestry Borough Council Small/medium enterprise opportunities Switch on Shropshire (SME’S) Encourage occupancy of Improve economic Proactive promotion of availability Oswestry Market Town Partnership vacant shops growth Upgrading of listed structures Oswestry Borough Council Enhance appearance of Oswestry Town Council town Oswestry & District Chamber of Commerce Extend Use of Oswestry Powis Recognised as a possible The opportunity to provide services Oswestry Market Town Partnership Hall Market area for economic use to accommodate identified gaps in Oswestry Borough Council Promote Local To Oswestry local provision Oswestry Town Council produce Craft fairs, antique markets and RuralScapes boot sales Re design street scene to Enhance shopping / Market stalls in Bailey Street/ Cross Oswestry Town Council incorporate mobile market visitor experience Street Oswestry Market Town Partnership stalls

Support present traders and Continuity in Oswestry’s Retail Forum to represent traders Oswestry Market Town Partnership promote local shopping unique selling point Oswestry & District Chamber of Commerce Learning and Skills Council Provision of Park & Ride or Limited parking Park & Ride Oswestry Borough Council shopping route service availability in town Publicised to encourage use Oswestry Town Council centre

CARREG LLWYD WARD - ACTION PLAN

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partner Timescale Youth facilities to encourage The groups of youths Consultation with young people to Lead Shropshire County Council – groups of teenagers to make older people feel consider provision of facilities for Children & Young People’s Services participate in appropriate unsafe people that will be used. Carreg Llwyd Church activities Young people want local Central register of existing youth Shropshire Youth Association activities activities within the area accessible Local schools on designated web sites and in OBC Sports Development Officer. paper format Inclusion of minority groups Break down the barriers Ward specific Young Peoples’ Forum. Carreg Llwyd Church Youth and older people to social activities Senior Citizen forum Future joint discussion of issues Groups could interact and share information across the borough Awareness of social courses Increase usage and Community well-being and Walford and North Shropshire College available at Walford and North empower individuals with companionship Carreg Llwyd Church Luncheon Club Shropshire College recreational activities Community Enterprise Centres Eastern Oswestry Community Centre

Continued development of Recognised as a multi – The opportunity to provide services All partners Carreg Llwyd Church facilities use centre and social to accommodate identified gaps in facility within ward local provision

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Reduce anti-social behaviour Distressing to residents Community well-being and civic Oswestry Crime Reduction Partnership Noise and petty vandalism pride West Mercia Police Community Officers Support from local Councillor Use of local green fields for Informal use being Formal agreement required. Oswestry Borough Council Shropshire sports recreation enjoyed at present Community well-being County Council PPG17 report Suggested area Oswestry Infants recommendation Improvement to Holly Green Dated equipment in need Actions based on youth survey Surestart play area of replacement Full use of green area available Oswestry Play Partnership

Reduction of traffic speed in Fear of accidents and Safer environment Shropshire County Council Highways. College Road community safety Safer routes for schools Concern regarding Safer environment and community Shropshire County Council inappropriate parking well-being Kerbcraft and volume of traffic in Encourage walking routes to school Oswestry Infants Middleton Road area Facilitation of road safety training Beech Grove School

Provision of affordable homes Accommodation needed Older people being retained in the Oswestry Borough Council for older people and area Forward Planning Dept single occupancy Availability of starter homes Expand and develop tourism Improve economic Increase visitor stay and numbers Oswestry Borderland Tourism Limited in Oswestry growth Promote cultural diversity Oswestry Borough Council Improve employment Capitalise on unique assets of the Oswestry Town Council opportunities area Develop innovative approach to marketing Consider tourist products and facilities

CASTLE WARD - ACTION PLAN

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Consultation with young people to Local Schools OBC Sports Provide activities for young Young people want local consider provision of facilities for Development Officer people activities people that will be used Shropshire County Council – Children & Young People’s Services Central register of existing youth activities within the area accessible on designated web Sites and in paper format Raise expectation to Local people see this as Improve employment opportunities All partners encourage learning and an issue development of young people

Set up working party to develop Oswestry Borough Council Play facilities for older Increase usage and creative ideas Oswestry Town Council children empower individuals with Sport England recreational activities Consult and consider residents’ and Skate park users’ opinions and preferences for Bowling the site

Place controls on use of A Cause dangerous Clear access on pavements, safer Oswestry Borough Council frame advertising boards in obstruction of pavements thoroughfares for pedestrians Oswestry Town Council town centre for the blind, pushchair/wheelchair users etc

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Stop illegal / inappropriate Causes obstruction, Safer for pedestrians West Mercia Constabulary parking in town centre dangerous Reduce risk of accidents Shropshire County Council Traffic Management

Improve safety at Roft St/ Dangerous New junction layout Shropshire County Council Highways Salop Road junction Dept Consider residents’ parking Residents close to town Authorised parking Shropshire County Council Highways centre unable to park Dept outside their properties Support present traders and Continue to develop Retail Forum to represent traders Oswestry Market Town Partnership promote local shopping Oswestry’s unique selling Oswestry & District Chamber of point Commerce Learning and Skills Council Improve appearance and Barren site More plants, trees etc Oswestry Town Council capacity of central car park Used by cars as race Oswestry In Bloom Committee circuit in evenings Excessive take away litter Reduce inappropriate usage of Site used as a race Evening barrier control Oswestry Town Council central car park at night circuit at night Reduce anti-social behaviour Concern over extended Greater police control West Mercia Constabulary in town centre licensing hours. Evening Oswestry Crime Reduction Partnership visitors to town are rowdy. Provide more public toilets in Lack of facilities Investigate partnership working with Oswestry Town Council town centre local traders Oswestry Borough Council Local Business Provision of Park & Ride or Limited parking Park & Ride Oswestry Borough Council shopping route service availability in town Publicised to encourage use Oswestry Town Council centre

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Expand and develop tourism Improve economic Increase visitor stay and numbers Oswestry Borderland Tourism Limited in Oswestry growth Promote cultural diversity Oswestry Borough Council Improve employment Capitalise on unique assets of the Oswestry Town Council opportunities area Develop innovative approach to marketing Consider tourist products and facilities Provide more opportunity for Improve economic Access to IT and video conferencing Business Link Enterprise Team business start ups and growth Availability of local training facilities Oswestry Market Town Partnership existing Improve employment Oswestry Borough Council Small/medium enterprise opportunities Switch on Shropshire (SME’S) Proactively seek inward Need identified Improve economic growth Oswestry Borough Council investment from large Economic development strategy Shropshire County Council employers Improve employment opportunities Advantage West Midlands Retain key knowledge and skills Support existing retailers and Continue to develop Retail forum to give retailers a Oswestry & District Chamber of promote local shopping Oswestry’s recognised common voice Commerce unique selling point Oswestry Borough Council Oswestry Town Council Learning and Skills Council Encourage occupancy of Improve economic Proactive promotion of availability Oswestry Market Town Partnership vacant shops growth Upgrading of listed structures Oswestry Borough Council Enhance appearance of Oswestry Town Council town Oswestry & District Chamber of Commerce Extend use of Oswestry Powis Recognised as a possible The opportunity to provide services Oswestry Market Town Initiative Hall Market area for economic use to accommodate identified gaps in Oswestry Borough Council Promote Local To Oswestry local provision Oswestry Town Council produce Craft fairs, antique markets and Oswestry & District Chamber of boot sales Commerce

GATACRE WARD - ACTION PLAN

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Encourage groups of Anti-social activities Consultation with young people to Local Schools teenagers to take part in Groups of youths make consider provision of facilities for OBC Sports Development Officer. organised activities older people feel unsafe people that will be used Shropshire County Council – Children & Young People’s Services Young people want local Central register of existing youth Local youth groups activities activities within the area accessible on designated websites and in paper format Promote civic pride Enhance appearance of Improved sense of pride Oswestry Borough Council the area Promotion of respect Oswestry Town Council Development of a small grant fund Community Council of Shropshire Less litter and dog fouling Set up working party to develop Oswestry Rotary Club Oswestry Hill Fort Site of one of the finest creative ideas Oswestry Borough Council Sympathetic improvement of examples of an Iron Age Oswestry Town Council interpretation and access hill fort in the country Consult and consider residents’ and English Heritage users’ opinions and preferences for the site

Consider joint group with Gatacre Pavilion Renovate Gatacre Pavilion Restricted use due to fire Set up working party to develop Oswestry Borough Council damage creative ideas Oswestry Town Council Community Council of Shropshire Widely used recreation Consult and consider residents’ and and sports area users’ opinions and preferences for the site. Consider joint group with Seek guidance from Eastern hill fort Oswestry Community Centre

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Designate Gatacre Pavilion Reduce anti-social Adoption of area as a recognised Oswestry Borough Council- fields as an alcohol free zone behaviour zone Environmental Services Less litter Stop illegal / inappropriate Causes obstruction, Safer for pedestrians West Mercia Constabulary parking close Woodside dangerous Reduce risk of accidents Shropshire County Council Traffic School Management Woodside School SureStart Children’s Centre Improve street layout in Gittin Large area which is being Traffic Island to control Shropshire County Council Highways Street used for parking and Dept waiting. Causing obstruction Update pelican crossing at Safer crossing Pelican crossing Shropshire County Council Highways Woodside Dept Provide safe crossing place at Essential crossing route Pelican crossing Shropshire County Council Highways Plough Bank to Boxing Club for schoolchildren Dept Provision of play equipment Limited existing provision Play equipment in designated areas Oswestry Borough Council for under 5’s Oswestry Town Council Support and retain allotment Residents value Minor improvements – sheds Oswestry Town Council sites provision. Sites Continued interaction with Woodside Oswestry Allotment Association contribute to well being School Woodside School and community spirit Share community information Residents are not aware Easier access to information QUBE what is happening within Involvement in community activities Community Council of Shropshire Social Enterprise and Shropshire Library Community Groups Oswestry Market Town Partnership Establish a recognised venue Limited use of Gatacre Support for Cambrian Railway Social Cambrian Railway Social Club for community use Pavilion has restricted Club, Gobowen Road Ward based community groups community events

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Provide more opportunity for Improve economic Access to IT and video conferencing Business Link Enterprise Team business start ups and growth Availability of local training facilities Oswestry Market Town Partnership existing Improve employment Oswestry Borough Council Small/medium enterprise opportunities Switch on Shropshire (SME’S)

Provide more business Improve economic Retain local expanding business Oswestry Borough Council Premises growth Encourage inward investment Shropshire County Council Provide employment opportunities Advantage West Midlands Shropshire Investment Bureau Encourage occupancy of Improve economic Proactive promotion of availability Oswestry Market Town Partnership vacant shops growth Upgrading of listed structures Oswestry Borough Council Enhance appearance of Oswestry Town Council town Oswestry & District Chamber of Commerce Extend Use of Oswestry Powis Recognised as a possible The opportunity to provide services Oswestry Market Town Partnership Hall Market area for economic use to accommodate identified gaps in Oswestry Borough Council local provision Oswestry Town Council Craft fairs, antique markets and boot sales Provision of Park & Ride or Limited parking Park & Ride Oswestry Borough Council shopping route service availability in town Publicised to encourage use Oswestry Town Council centre Expand and develop tourism Improve economic Increase visitor stay and numbers Oswestry Borderland Tourism Limited in Oswestry growth Promote cultural diversity Oswestry Borough Council Improve employment Capitalise on unique assets of the Oswestry Town Council opportunities area Develop innovative approach to marketing Consider tourist products and facilities

MASERFIELD WARD - ACTION PLAN

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Encourage groups of The groups of youths Consultation with young people to Lead Centre North West with teenagers to take part in make older people feel consider provision of facilities for Shropshire Youth Association organised activities unsafe people that will be used. Local schools Central register of existing youth OBC Sports Development Officer. Young people want local activities within the area accessible Shropshire County Council – Children activities on designated websites and in paper & Young People’s Services format Promote respect Oswestry Borough Council Promote civic pride Enhance appearance of Less litter and dog fouling Oswestry Town Council the area Develop small grant fund Community Council of Shropshire Oswestry Market Town Partnership Sympathetic improvement of Increase usage and Consultation to consider residents’ Oswestry Borough Council Brynhafod playing field empower individuals with and playing field users’ opinions and Oswestry Town Council recreational activities preferences for the site The Big Lottery Fund

Set up working party to develop creative ideas Designate Brynhafod playing Reduce anti-social Adoption of area as a recognised Oswestry Borough Council- field as alcohol-free zone behaviour zone Environmental Services Less litter Maintain rights of way Quality of life Improves access to countryside Shropshire County Council Access Encourage walking Team Expand and develop tourism Improve economic Increase visitor stay and numbers Oswestry Borderland Tourism Limited in Oswestry growth Promote cultural diversity Oswestry Borough Council Improve employment Capitalise on unique assets of the Oswestry Town Council opportunities area Develop innovative approach to marketing Consider tourist products and facilities

Improvement Needed Why Desired Outcome/Benefit Partners Investigate residents’ parking Residents find it difficult Investigate the need for permit Shropshire County Council Highways in areas close to town centre to park outside their areas property Advise residents of required action Stop illegal / inappropriate Causes obstruction, Safer for pedestrians West Mercia Constabulary parking close to junctions dangerous Reduce risk of accidents Shropshire County Council Traffic e.g Welsh Walls/Brynhafod Rd Management Reduce fear of crime in Residents feel Reduce anti-social activity Oswestry Crime Reduction Partnership Oswestry town uncomfortable in the evenings More patrols by Community Support Officers

Provide more opportunity for Improve economic Access to IT and video conferencing Business Link Enterprise Team business start ups and growth Availability of local training facilities Oswestry Market Town Partnership existing Improve employment Oswestry Borough Council Small/medium enterprise opportunities Switch on Shropshire (SME’S)

Provide more business Improve economic Retain local expanding business Oswestry Borough Council premises growth Encourage inward investment Shropshire County Council Provide employment opportunities Advantage West Midlands Support high-tech business Improve economic Provide employment opportunities Business Link Mustard Programme growth Encourage inward investment Oswestry Borough Council Shropshire County Council Advantage West Midlands Encourage occupancy of Improve economic Proactive promotion of availability Oswestry Market Town Partnership vacant shops growth Upgrading of listed structures Oswestry Borough Council Enhance appearance of Oswestry Town Council town Oswestry & District Chamber of Commerce Extend use of Oswestry Powis Recognised as a possible The opportunity to provide services Oswestry Market Town Partnership Hall Market area for economic use. to accommodate identified gaps in Oswestry Borough Council local provision Oswestry Town Council

What the people said they like about their wards in Oswestry

Carreg Llwyd Maserfield Gatacre Cabin Lane Castle Cambrian

Support from Access to green Prime location Active church Central Close location Carreg Llwyd space allotments location to town centre Church Bus service Close proximity Easy access to Bus service Historic Shelf Bank for to town centre open space buildings nature and and aerial view of architecture town Access to Friendly Oswestry hill Availability of after Cae Glas Community leisure facilities community fort school club Park meeting venues+ Local Local Local Local convenience Active Heritage convenience convenience convenience shop community railway shop shop shop support Sub post office St Oswald’s Skate park Access to Regeneration of Well open space area Range of activities Fringed by at Eastern deprived Oswestry areas Community Centre Community spirit Sub post office Protected habitat for crested newts

What the people said they like about Oswestry “I am proud to live in Oswestry and think that with a lot of

Heritage and historic buildings Support from community groups help, the youth could be given

Small individual shops University of the 3rd Age the opportunity to be proud of,

Excellent library Friendliness of people and have respect for, their Oswestry in Bloom Quality restaurants and pubs town..”

Cae Glas park Interesting range of festivals “I have lived in Oswestry for six Market town culture Central to all routes weeks. I find it

a very friendly, Cultural diversity and art at the Oswestry showground helpful place. Qube The town shops provide me with Excellent schools Xmas Lighting and Xmas Live all I need and

Walford & North Shropshire College Continued Reg eneration their staff go out of their way to assist.”

“The ladies at Castle View reception are really nice

APPENDIX 2

What Oswestry Needs – results of Walford and North Shropshire College consultation

Town Centre Economic Social Transport CD / Record shop Employment Indie and rock club Train station opportunities Lads’ clothing Mentoring Organised activities Bus service to Gobowen linking with trains Sports clothing Core employment Cinema Taxis late at night shop business Children’s trendy Careers support Bowling Cheaper transport for clothes shops students Bench, Hooch Cyber Café Chance to get Football Club employment More jobs for Sports facilities McDonalds students Burger King Claires Ice skating

Bigger size Live entertainment Other clothes shop Changing facilities Skate park for older More say for young for mums and youths people feeding room Sex shop Night club better Improved disabled than the Vic access Animal rescue Improved leisure Affordable Housing centre facilities Information re what is available in clubs

What Oswestry Needs – results of Beech Grove /Woodside School Consultation

Town Centre Environment Health and Social Transport Clubs Needed/Other CD /record Businesses to Hospital facilities Make it safer to Art clubs shop adopt a green locally walk to school policy Lads’ clothing Protect the planet Organised Less speeding Boxing club activities traffic promoting sport Sports clothing Less graffiti Cinema Improved control Football club shop of parking Children’s Encourage people Bowling Tennis club trendy not to drop litter clothes shops

Cyber Café More cycle lanes Improved leisure BMX club facilities Less vandalism More fun Rounders club McDonalds equipment in play Burger King areas Ball game areas Pet shop Encourage people BMX track Basketball club not to smoking Trendy men’s Designated dog Sports facilities Information re what Clothing Shop walking areas is available in clubs/art/sport TV & computer Look after historic Ice skating More say for young games Shop Buildings people Less dog fouling Skate park Swimming club Lego club Card & boardgame Club Club for year 5 6 & 7

Results of Youth Questionnaires

67% not aware of Oswestry Youth “I think that Council 46% 52% use Oswestry should not members of Oswestry Leisure spend more on any clubs Centre leisure facilities.”

85% “Oswestry moans 55% want a about teenage are members of 193 Cinema Bus drinking and sports clubs Youth vandalism when there isn’t Questionnaires anything else to do. Give the town 32% something to do and 64% attend not as many need more Music Live problems will information about clubs happen.” 32% visit Cae Glas Park “I would like a 47% use parks to small two-screen 15% chill – out visit Gatacre 25% cinema on the 13% football outskirts of Brynhafod Oswestry.”

“More technology clubs rather than

APPENDIX 3

Oswestry Town Plan – Action Plan Emerging priorities – link with proposed Community Strategy Comments from Questionnaires

Identified priority Ward Issue Community Strategy Lead “Too many decisions are Strategy Indicator Organisation made behind closed doors Link and are not necessarily More and better Gatacre X QOL 18 Qube-Oswestry what local people want” community information QOL22 Community Action Encourage volunteering Carreg Llwyd X QOL18 Qube-Oswestry “Job creation through QOL19 Community Action volunteers.” QOL22 QOL26 “Whilst there are signs Encourage zero tolerance Cabin Lane X QOL18 Oswestry Borough Council- stating fines for dog to street litter and dog Cambrian Planning & Environmental fouling there are no bins fouling Castle Services provided for dog mess.” Gatacre Support local festivals Cabin Lane X QOL18 Oswestry Town Council “Takeaways' should reduce and events Cambrian QOL19 the quantity of litter Carreg Llwyd and filth in our streets Castle every weekend.” Gatacre Maserfield “A bigger choice of Promote adult education Carreg Llwyd X QOL1 Shropshire Learning Skills night school subjects at QOL2 Council the College. It is an impressive building - why not use it?”

“Non availability of part time courses - after school child care is a problem.”

“Provide free Identified priority Ward Issue Community Strategy Lead advertising of local Strategy Indicator Organisation businesses to promote Link them.” Promote child care at X QOL1 SureStart Learning Centres QOL2 “We need more large Promote local business Gatacre X QOL1 Oswestry Borough Council businesses employing Castle Economic Development people full time at Cambrian decent wages.” Support business start Cabin Lane X QOL4 Oswestry Borough Council ups Castle QOL5 Economic Development “CCTV encourages lazy Extend CCTV scheme X QOL15 Oswestry Town Council policing - we need QOL16 bobbies on the beat.” Support the work of Maserfield X QOL15 Oswestry Borough Council- Crime Reduction Castle QOL16 Community & Operational “Zero tolerance of Partnership Services illegal parking in all areas of town centre and Protection of areas of Cabin lane X QOL18 Oswestry Borough Council- of boy racers on Central natural beauty and Carreg Llwyd QOL19 Planning & Environmental car park .” habitats Gatacre QOL36 Services Energy efficiency in the X QOL28 Oswestry Borough Council- home Planning & Environmental “More avenues with tree Services planting schemes.”

“Provide a demo house where people could see how they could contribute to energy saving.”

“Get the Heritage Identified priority Ward Issue Community Strategy Lead Railway up and running. Strategy Indicator Organisation This would be a great Link boost for the local Develop Oswestry Cambrian X QOL 1 Oswestry Borough Council- economy.” Heritage Railway QOL2 Economic Development QOL3 “Retain the historic QOL4 structures and buildings QOL5 within town and Develop local food X QOL18 RuralScapes vicinity.” marketing QOL10 QOL21 Restore historic X QOL 18 Oswestry Borough Council “Improve standard of buildings QOL 33 Planning & Environment design for new buildings Improve standard of X QOL1 Oswestry Borough Council but that does not mean new build design QOL2 Planning & Environment forcing "in keeping" QOL8 styling on them.”

Support new leisure X QOL22 Oswestry Borough Council- “Demolish badly built or development QOL10 Community & Operational badly maintained QOL18 Services buildings.”

Cinema X QOL21 Oswestry Borough Council “The leisure centre is Encourage citizenship Cabin Lane X QOL9 Oswestry Market Town extremely well used and within young people Castle QOL22 Partnership it would be daft not to Maserfield build a new one.”

“We need a cinema with stage facilities that could be used by theatre groups.”

“There are no places of entertainment locally. We need a Identified priority Ward Issue Community Strategy Lead bowling alley, ball Strategy Indicator Organisation park, Whacky Link Warehouse or Promote local clubs Cabin Lane X QOL21 Shropshire County Council- something similar .” and sports facilities for Cambrian QOL18 Children’s Information young people Carreg Llwyd Service “It’s the small shops Castle that people come for Gatacre and they need to be Maserfield supported by the Council with lower Promote local shopping X QOL22 Oswestry District Chamber business rates.” QOL18 of Commerce Support Oswestry Cambrian X QOL10 Shropshire Primary Care “We need a local Health Village QOL18 Trust health village with QOL22 basic facilities eg Promote safe walking Cabin Lane X QOL10 Oswestry Borough Council- X-ray , A&E etc.” routes Carreg Llwyd QOL26 Community & Operational Cambrian QOL18 Services “There is no real QOL15 place for children to Improve local street Cabin Lane X QOL1 Oswestry Town Council cycle safely markets Cambrian QOL4 especially for Castle QOL5 children who cannot Maserfield manage the hills in Gatacre local country lanes.”

“Signing for the market is non- existent. This is an important facility

39 Acknowledgements The Oswestry Market Town Partnership was chosen by Oswestry Town Council to lead on the Oswestry Town Plan. The work would not have been completed within the twelve month timescale without an officer to coordinate the project. Oswestry Borough Council Distribution List and Oswestry Town Council have been complimented by the Community Council of Oswestry Town Council Shropshire for their partnership working. The Town Plan Steering group has specialist Oswestry Borough Council knowledge and skills which have added greatly to the process. Advantage West Midlands Community Council of Shropshire Steering group members: Defra Oswestry & District Rural Parish Cllr Martin Bennett Oswestry Town Council / Oswestry Borough Council Council Angela Cott Ruralscapes Shropshire Partnership Caroline Oakes Community Council of Shropshire Shropshire Investment Bureau Helen Minnice Oswestry Borough Council Shropshire County Council David Preston Oswestry Town Council Lorraine Sinden SureStart Oswestry Emma Williams Business Link West Mercia Report available on in large Funding Partners print by request from: Oswestry Borough Council Oswestry Town Council Shropshire County Council Community Council of Shropshire & Defra Oswestry Borough Council Castle View Author’s comment Oswestry The town plan was supported by so many people in different ways. It was encouraging SY11 1JR that people were willing to talk to me and groups welcomed me to meetings. The list of people who supported me is endless. I cannot single out individuals, they know who PDF Download available from they are know and how much I appreciated their help. www.oswestrybc.gov.uk On a personal level I am proud of the work I have completed so far and I look forward to seeing the recommendations transformed into reality.

Julie Ruler, Oswestry Market Town Initiative Officer April 2006