MELKSHAM Town Council is encouraging local people to complete a short questionnaire about how they travel to and through the town.
The town council says, “It forms the first stage in a five-month exercise to understand better how people and goods move around now – and then to explore long-term options for change, as well as short-term fixes.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, it’s increasingly clear that ‘returning to normal’ is not really an option. In part this is a result of how our habits over the past 16 months have changed, triggered by successive lockdowns.
The bigger-picture issues of climate and environmental change, increased population, technology, a greater focus on leisure, increased demand for health and social care provision, heightened inequality – all require rapid and substantial change across society if they are to be confronted effectively.
“The way goods and people move around is key to how we shape a future that meets these challenges.
“We all want our town centres to be more attractive, healthy and people-friendly. Most of us would like to see less traffic and more pedestrian space – but when we use our car, we expect to be able to park without driving endless circuits around the town.
“Many people are walking and cycling more and as a society we have become more appreciative and protective of our fresh air and open spaces.
“Yet, we have also become more reliant on online shopping and home deliveries. These challenges often overlap – so it is crucial that they are carefully tackled.
“Called Priority for People: Melksham 2021, the first stage of this project is gathering evidence.
“This is where local engagement from residents of Melksham and its surrounding villages is so important and we warmly invite you to complete a few questions on your day-to-day travels, whether by car, bike, bus or on foot.
“In August, the evidence will be analysed and the results published for further public input and discussion. While funded and managed by Melksham Town Council, views and ideas are also being sought from residents in surrounding communities.”
About the launch of the project, Melksham’s mayor, cllr Jon Hubbard said, “Everyone has a view on traffic, on improving air quality, making it easier and safer to get around, on public transport, on trucks and delivery vehicles.
“Last year, we adopted a report ‘Melksham Town 2020-2036’ which looked ahead to some of the challenges and opportunities we face in the years ahead, all within the framework of the climate emergency.
“Priority for People is an important first step in putting meat on the bones of that report – and in ensuring as far as possible that we reflect people’s concerns and ambitions.”
Your chance to be heard
The survey can be found at: www.priorityforpeople.org
Paper copies of the survey are also being made available in a number of retail outlets, pubs and public buildings, including Melksham Town Hall.
The survey will be closed on 25th July.
For more information, contact David McKnight, Economic Development Manager at Melksham Town Council.
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