RESIDENTS in Chard are being invited to have their say on the future of the town.

In June 2021, South Somerset District Council (SSDC) invited people to give their views on how to make the town a better place to live.

The outcomes of this public consultation helped to shape the draft Future of Chard Strategy 2021 - 2035.

Now, residents are again being invited to share their views, but this time on the draft strategy, before the final version is adopted by the council.

Cllr Val Keitch, leader of SSDC, said: “For the benefit of the whole community, it is important that residents and businesses are involved in helping shape and deliver the actions identified in the strategy.

"This is a great opportunity for community groups to come together to help deliver these actions.”

A consultation will be held at the Guidhall in Chard on the following days:

  • 10am to 2pm - Saturday 23 October
  • 9am to 4pm - Monday 25 October
  • 12pm to 8pm - Tuesday 26 October

The full draft strategy will be available to view at the consultations.

Visitors will also be able to submit their feedback on what makes a successful and attractive shop front.

This is because, as part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone programme, SSDC is developing a Shop Front Design Guide for Chard. The purpose of this is to offer advice towards achieving successful shop fronts.

Cllr Jason Baker, portfolio holder for Chard Regeneration, said: “As we know, shop fronts and their associated signs and advertisements play a very important part in the appearance of the commercial areas of our towns.

"Therefore, opinions from local residents will be vital to ensure future shop fronts are appropriate and relate well to Chard’s fantastic character.”

A range of actions have been identified in the strategy that will help tackle the challenges facing residents, the economy and the environment of Chard.

The key benefits SSDC would like to see realised for Chard as a result of the strategy are as follows:

  • Enterprising: A vibrant centre for business and employment opportunities
  • Caring: A place where people can do well and communities work together to improve people’s health and wellbeing
  • Connected: A well-connected town in terms of both transport and getting around and where groups and organisations work together towards a common purpose
  • Destination: A place people want to visit because of what it has to offer
  • Sustainable: A town that cares for the environment and that creates a greener future for its residents