Help to shape the town’s future to 2030 (From Knutsford Guardian)

Help to shape the town’s future to 2030

1:30pm Thursday 20th September 2012 in News By James Wilson

PEOPLE living and working in Knutsford are being urged to share their views on the new local plan, which council leaders are stressing will create one of the most important blueprints in the town’s history.

This important document will determine future infrastructure up to 2030, setting out housing, jobs, roads, schools, leisure facilities, parks and green spaces that will affect you, your children – and even your grandchildren.

But it has emerged that by Monday only 26 people in the town had completed the questionnaire.

One entrepreneur who will be taking part in the consultation process is Carl Bell, 30, the owner of Lime Menswear store on King Street.

“I have concerns about parking in Knutsford, and we could do with more facilities,” Carl said.

“The town could also do with a business park full of office workers who would help boost business for the vast number of eateries and independent retailers.

“Knutsford is a very quaint and popular place to live, and so I think we need more housing in the town, although it needs to be on brown field sites to protect our lovely green belt.

“Businesses are generally doing very well in Knutsford, and it’s thanks to initiatives like Love Local Life that the high street is thriving.

“We have brilliant links to the M6, and the town has its own train station. We’re not a million miles away from Manchester either, so the town definitely benefits from its location.

“It’s a difficult balance to keep the character of the area and continue growth, but I think Knutsford can cope with it.”

Clr Michael Jones, leader at Cheshire East Council, has urged townspeople to get involved.

“Like many residents Carl has his own concerns, and it is important that these are heard,” he said.

“If people don’t get involved then decisions will be made based only on the replies we receive back, and our aim at Cheshire East is to reflect the views of as many people as possible.”

To view the town plan strategy visit cheshireeast.gov.uk or visit the library on Toft Road.

 

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SHOPPERS at Booths will be able to have a look at the Knutsford Town Strategy on Friday while browsing the aisles.

Councillors and volunteers will be running a stall at the supermarket from 10am to 7pm and handing out questionnaires.