PUBLIC MEETING ON 23RD JANUARY WAS A SUCCESS
Despite the poor weather there was a good attendance at our public meeting on 23rd Jan.
This meeting was in the form of a brief introduction by the team leaders followed by an opportunity for people to visit the various stands and provide feedback on the work done to date, and to raise any issues which they would like to be considered for inclusion in the plan.
Many thanks to all those who came along, and to the volunteers who helped organise the event, man the stands, provide the refreshments etc.
We'd also like to thank Philip Ridley (Head of Planning at Suffolk Coastal District Council) who came along and participated in the discussions which were taking place around the various stands.
(More events will be arranged - please keep up to date on this website)
Here is a summary of the sort of issues which residents mentioned at the meeting.
A lot of people left comments about roads, cycleways, footpaths, A12 noise and pollution, and traffic volumes. Parking was a big concern - especially for new developments, as was access by foot and cycle to the new shops (Next, Tesco etc).
Traffic calming on Main Road and Eagle Way was mentioned, as was the high level of traffic on old Felixstowe Rd.
On housing, people were concerned about the design and height of future houses, with many feeling that they should blend in with existing housing styles and the countryside surroundings. The need for housing for young people was mentioned as was the need for more housing suitable for older people, plus retirement homes and a nursing home so our ageing population can remain local.
A number felt that preserving the character and open spaces of Martlesham Heath was important, as was having a policy to prevent unacceptable infill elsewhere.
The need for more accessible country areas close by was mentioned, as was the need for more community open spaces in old Martlesham.
A new community hall in old Martlesham and proper youth community centre were both mentioned, as was a not-for-profit community cafe also selling local produce. Finally a common concern was the future of the surgery and the need for it to be able to expand in or near its current location to provide a wider range of services and cater for the ageing population.
We will be holding further public events, followed by a questionnaire which will be sent to every household in the Parish. To keep up to date, and for more information about the comments we’ve had so far, please visit our website at martlesham2028.org.uk or find us on Facebook where you can also leave comments. Our email address ismartlesham2028@gmx.co.uk. By phone please leave a message by calling the Parish Council office on 01473 612632.