THE latest phase in the Town Design Statement was launched in Petersfield Square on Saturday by the new town mayor, Paul Molloy. A steady stream of shoppers stopped to give their views about the town to information gathering volunteers from Petersfield Tomorrow, the independent community group which is coordinating the project. Vincent Edberg, chairman of Petersfield Tomorrow's TDS Group, said: "There was lots of interest, volunteers handed out hundreds of response cards, and this proved a successful first step finding out how local people wish Petersfield to develop." Comments and requests covered a wide range of topics which included stricter planning, the need for a cleaner town, more youth activities and children's areas, a reduction in the number of cafes, a plea for more buses and a name change back to St Peters in the Field. The government is encouraging people to say how they want their towns and villages to look and it is hoped the Town Design Statement will become part of the guidelines for all future planning. The project builds on last year's Market Town Health Check survey, which highlighted the need for a Town Design Statement. This initial stage of a longer process lasts until September, and the next TDS event is in the Town Square on July 14 when the purpose of the document will be explained more clearly. Feedback from the first month in action will also be on display. To see a full list of responses, visit the collaborative website at ww.petersfield.pbwiki.com In the meantime, those interested can identify their area of town on the website, and sign up to give their views. For more information, contact: Nick Keith, Petersfield Tomorrow's Press Officer, on 01730 235669. Email: nick@keith news.com
