Mylander - Issue 85

12 Council Reports We want to hear your views on these sorts of issues in a short survey open to all our residents. The events of this year have made all of us appreciate what we might have once taken for granted, such as seeing friends or family, or enjoying a walk in the country park. We’ve probably all had a bit more time to enjoy our surroundings and sense of community. Now we want to know what issues matter to you, and how community improvements could help residents to lead happier, healthier lives with stronger community connections. So, we’re inviting you to take part in a short online anonymous survey. We want to hear if your household is involved in any community activities – from toddler groups & schools, to leisure / community clubs or volunteering. We want to find out how we can make our community more accessible for all – from those with young children to older residents. Our parish has been expanding, and we want to know what would help residents make local journeys in a more sustainable way – keeping us healthy and protecting the environment. Your views matter Your input is vital; it will help the council to understand our residents’ lives and what matters to them. Your responses will help us plan services and activities that can help people make positive change in their lives. For example, if we know that residents want to move to walking or cycling more, or want to get involved in local community activities, we can work with local organisations to give residents these opportunities and raise awareness. Feedback received in this survey will also play an important part in reviewing the council’s current Neighbourhood Plan, says Councillor Pete Hewitt, Vice-Chair of the council. “Neighbourhood Plans enable local communities to shape the future of where they live. Once adopted by the relevant planning authority, in our case Colchester Borough Council, they become an important document that cannot be ignored during decisions on planning matters.” Myland Community Council was the first in Essex to have such a neighbourhood plan accepted in 2016. Councillor Hewitt explains that understanding issues of health and wellbeing locally are critical for keeping the plan relevant to community needs. “It is time for theNeighbourhood Plan to be reviewed. At its heart lays ‘community quality of life’ and this theme will continue when the Plan is reviewed over coming months. Your views on health and well-being will directly feed into the new Plan in this crucial aspect.” The community council area covers Mile End and parts of Highwoods. We have historic buildings and new housing. Some of you – and your families – will have lived in the area for many years. Some of you will have been attracted to make your home here by the green spaces and proximity to town. Our survey will help us involve all members of the community – new and longstanding – in decision-making and planning for the future.