PEOPLE living in Winklebury have had their vision for the regeneration of their community outlined and presented to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Members of Winklebury Community Action Group met with representatives from the borough council, Hampshire County Council, VIVID and the architects selected for the initial planning work, Kenn Scaddan Associates, to discuss the community group’s detailed vision of how residents want to see the area develop and flourish.

During the meeting, the group outlined the key points of the community plan, which was published late last year following consultation with residents in the area, setting out a series of actions to work towards achieving key goals for the area.

This initial meeting provided a platform for the community group to share the results of the resident’s consultation with key partners who will be developing the plans with the aim of further strengthening the community.

Chair of Winklebury Community Action Group, Wendy Moore, said: “We are encouraged that all the partners are willing to take into consideration the concerns of Winklebury residents whilst planning the regeneration of the community. We look forward to meeting them again as their plans develop to make Winklebury an even better place to live.”

Director of new business and development at VIVID, Mike Shepherd, added: “We’re working with stakeholders on potential plans for the area; it’s been good to talk directly to members of the Community Action Group to discuss their ideas and concerns. We’re exploring options and engaging with the community to develop plans aligned with local needs.”

Further drop-in sessions will take place over the summer and autumn. This will be open to all residents as the year progresses.

Cabinet member for housing, regeneration, arts and heritage at the borough council, Cllr Terri Reid, said: “The council has listened to the local community and their vision for the area and we really want to take the local residents on this journey of regeneration with us with.

“This process won’t happen in isolation and with developments nearby, including Manydown, we need to make sure there are close links so that the community gets the greatest benefit.”