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When
I accepted the chairmanship of the Parish Plan Steering Committee
I had little idea of what was involved or what the result would
be.
What
I did know was that I thought our task was important and that
the residents should have an opportunity to formally record their
needs and wants.
I
believe this plan is a comprehensive reference work that governmental,
voluntary and commercial organisations involved in our future
should take into account when making their plans. In particular
I look forward to the Parish Council adopting the action plan
as its blueprint for the challenging times ahead. Many of the
findings have been shared with the local strategic partnership
and again we are encouraged by their willingness to address the
community's views and concerns.
Most of the credit for the plan goes to my fellow committee members
to whom I would like to express my gratitude. In particular I
would like to acknowledge the committee's secretary Graham Steel
without whom we would not be where we are today, and for writing
this report; Jeremy Peters for producing this report and editing
www.myshotley.com; Kevin Smith for his work on the questionnaire
and software; and to Val and Roy Simpkin who sourced much important
local information. Also, thanks are due to all the volunteer deliverers
and data entry clerks and the many people who gave up their time
to complete questionnaires, attend meetings, share their views
and research issues.
Last
but not least thanks to the sponsors, Shotley Parish Council,
Suffolk Acre and the Countryside Agency.
We could say that responsibility for the Parish Plan now passes
from the Steering Committee to the Parish Council; however, this
would only be partially true. The real responsibility passes to
you the people, organisations and businesses of Shotley. The Parish
Council I am sure can and will facilitate, support and give direction
but as we say on the website - "You can make things happen
here."
Phill Radley
Chairman, Shotley Parish Plan Steering Committee
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