What is the outcome of our community consultation on the idea of a New Community Centre?
Animated in full colour if you prefer a video
A written summary below if you'd rather not listen to Rob for 4 minutes! (haha)
Community building response
Recently Friends of Hardie Park conducted a survey and a series of community consultations regarding the idea of working jointly with 1st Stanford le Hope Scouts to redevelop their building into a community hub, creating a permanent long-term solution for both the Scouts and Friends of Hardie Park.
We had a fantastic response to our survey, both via our website and returned postal surveys with over 70 responses received in the first week.
We held just three consultation events. Some residents who had objected via their surveys came and an honest discussion was held. The main objections centred on the scale of the project and the associated parking, noise and pollution issues. From the discussion it became clear that:
a) The Scouts had almost unanimous support for a new building, a suggestion was made that the community could get behind the project and support the fundraising effort. b) There was good demand for a multi-use hub facility but Hardie Park is not the best location. c) Residents were also supportive of Hardie Park and would not object to a permanent building on the existing site.
I hope that these conversations will lead to a secure future for both of our groups and perhaps to a community hub that meets other needs too.
Friends of Hardie Park will continue to work with and support the Scouts wherever we can but we will progress the idea of a replacement building in partnership with Thurrock Council who own the park.
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