Julie Leigh column: Thank you for taking part in Know Your Place engagement
I would like to thank everyone who has taken part in the Know Your Place Trent Valley engagement programme.
Over the past three months, local people have had the opportunity to share what matters most to them, both today and for future generations, as plans progress for the redevelopment of the former power station sites at West Burton, Cottam and High Marnham.
It has been good to see such strong interest from communities across the area.
Hundreds of residents have taken part through local events and an online survey, providing valuable feedback that will help inform decision-making within the Trent Supercluster programme and ensure local priorities remain at the heart of future investment and development.
The project has been delivered on behalf of the Trent Supercluster Partnership and funded by the East Midlands Combined County Authority, which recognises the Trent Valley as a key driver of economic growth and future prosperity across the region.
Looking ahead, there are more opportunities for residents to have their say.
At the meeting of cabinet on September 1, we approved plans to launch a six-week consultation on a new local plan for Bassetlaw.
This important document will set out how we manage and shape future growth across the district, supporting jobs, services, housing and investment, while helping us make the most of the opportunities presented by the Trent Valley Supercluster.
Creating a new local plan will enable the council to take a proactive approach to managing development and directing growth, ensuring we continue to plan positively for our communities up to March 2028, when a new unitary authority is expected to be established.
It will also mean that our community’s voice is heard by the new, larger unitary council.
We want to hear your views on what the local plan should include and how you would like to be involved as it develops.
The consultation launches this week and I would encourage everyone to take part.
You’ll find more details in the news section at bassetlaw.gov.uk
Alongside this work, we are developing a new growth strategy for the district.
This strategy is focused on building a stronger, more sustainable future for Bassetlaw by supporting local jobs, attracting investment, helping businesses thrive and ensuring our towns, villages and communities remain great places to live, work and visit.
Following the completion of the Bassetlaw skills audit, we are bringing together businesses, partners and organisations for a workshop on September 22 at the Bridge Skills Hub.
The event will explore emerging priorities, encourage the sharing of ideas and help shape the actions needed to turn ambition into delivery.
Discussions will focus on a range of key themes, including investment, skills and business support, the future of our town centres and local places, growing the visitor economy, and strengthening connections and opportunities for people and communities.
Together, these conversations will help ensure that future growth delivers lasting benefits for residents, businesses and communities across Bassetlaw.