A WORKSHOP in developing a Concept Statement for the Hindhead area took place at the Devil's Punchbowl Hotel last week. Landowners, both business and residential, representatives from recreational organisations, councillors and other local stakeholders all came together to determine some key elements. Their first task was to brave the wind and rain and go out to identify assets in and around the crossroads area. Once back inside attendees were challenged to think logically about how to expand these assets into possible development principles. Resident and local businessman, Nigel Mee, commented that while "historically there may have been differences, even arguments, between stakeholders, the workshop day has opened up channels of communication and people are talking in a positive manner about potential, opportunity and regeneration". Caroline White, Hindhead Together co-ordinator, said: "Themes from the afternoon included creating a community with a heart, celebrating the historic and cultural links in the area, capturing the calm and tranquillity of the Punchbowl and creating a coordinated identity using sustainable materials. "The views and desires of local people and organisations are an integral part of shaping the vision and plan for the Hindhead area, once the A3 tunnel is completed. We are using a group of experienced consultants, the planning cooperative, to engage stakeholders in the development of a draft concept statement or statements. "This will provide a framework for the more detailed planning process and the workshop was one of the most important stages of this work. "Agreeing on possible opportunities for development within the agreed context of historical, cultural and environmental assets was an ambitious and challenging task for participants at the workshop, but we made some good progress." There will be another meeting with landowners, then the consultants, The planning cooperative, will work with Hindhead Together to prepare the draft statements. A public community exhibition, again at the Devil's Punchbowl Hotel, on March 7 and 8 to allow everyone to see the drafts and comment on them. She added: "Local people will be encouraged to view the draft plans and tell us their suggestions for refinements and improvements. Everyone is welcome to come to that event."
