Survey will help to form a plan for town's future (From Evesham Journal)

Survey will help to form a plan for town's future

7:30pm Friday 31st August 2012 in Evesham

AN online survey aiming to create a “super-successful”

Evesham has been launched.

People are being asked to share their thoughts on everything from parking to their reasons for coming into town and their thoughts on its events and festivals.

Respondents will be asked whether they would use a park and ride scheme and to name things that would make them more likely to visit the town. Results will be collated and used as a template for boosting the town’s economy.

The survey, created for free by local firm AMDS Support Services, has been launched this week by Evesham Market Town Partnership (EMTP) and the Vale of Evesham Commerce and Tourism Association (VECTA).

EMTP chairman Gerry O’Donnell described it as “a step in the right direction for the town”. He said: “We can guess, probably with some accuracy, what it is that people want. But the survey will be a database from which to work from and help us create a vision of how and what Evesham could offer residents and visitors in future.”

EMTP was set up in 2001 to deliver £500,000 of regeneration using government funding.

Although the funding has expired, it continues to work with local councils and VECTA on projects to support the town’s economy.

Tony Rowland, chairman of VECTA, believes this joint approach is key to the town’s success. “Businesses need to work in conjunction with the town council to promote Evesham in the best way possible.

In turn, the council has to provide an environment in which business can thrive,”

he said.

Initial findings from the survey are expected to be sent to Wychavon district and Evesham town councils as early as October.

To complete the survey, go to eveshamtown.co.uk and click on the “What Do You Think?” link.