Needham
Action Group is currently carrying out a house to house ‘feasibility’ survey in
order to find out residents’ requirements for an outdoor community space in the
village. Thank you to those who have taken time to speak to us - Your opinions
matter! And for those of you who were not home when we knocked, we would love
to hear from you: please contact us at greenigloos@gmail.com
So far we have had an extremely positive response and hope
that as you share your ideas you will feel more involved in the project. Our
next step is to hold a community mapping event where everyone can join in
designing the area and work out precisely how we would like it to look! This is
an exciting stage where you could really make your mark for the benefit of
everyone!
During the survey we did get a few recurring questions, so
here they are with some answers:
Q: “There used to be a play area at the Village Hall,
but it was taken down because no one used it. Why make another one?”
A: Needham used
to have an infant/toddler group that met regularly at the Village Hall and the
previous play area was created with them in mind. Although it was small it was sufficient
to entertain toddlers. Unfortunately in 2008, the playgroup moved to Brockdish and
took some of the equipment, leaving inadequate facilities for anyone to use. Needham Action Group plans to create something
completely different that will appeal to people of all ages, from toddlers, to
teens to parents to OAPs and everyone in between!
Q: “Where will it be, there isn’t really room in the
Village Hall grounds?”
A: We agree that the Village Hall grounds are an
important resource for events and functions. Instead we are talking to a local
Trust who could provide land adjacent, increasing footfall to the Village Hall,
highlighting its fantastic facilities and hopefully increasing bookings there.
Q: “What would it cost us?”
A: Incredibly, Needham Action Group will bear all of the costs: both in building and
in maintaining through fundraising events and grants. This means there will be
NO DIRECT COST to Needham residents or the Village Hall. In fact, this kind of enhancement
to village facilities is proven to increase the value of properties locally, so
everyone is a winner!
Q: “I don’t plan to use the park myself, why would I
want to support it?”
A: An outdoor hub like this will help to strengthen the
community, bringing people together and providing a place that people of all
ages can meet and enjoy time outdoors together. This can only be a good thing!
Q: “We don’t see children in the village. How do you
know there is a need?”
A: Needham Action Group has undertaken
a survey from which we so far estimate there to be 45 child residents, not to
mention all the grandchildren who visit regularly – they just aren’t seen
because there is little reason for them to be in the street. Plus we have
discovered that Brockdish children are often driven through Needham in order to
get to facilities in Harleston. To promote relations with our neighbouring
village, wouldn’t it be wonderful if they came here instead...and some may
cycle rather than drive!
Q: “How will it benefit the children of the village?”
A: From the survey, we have discovered that Needham
children attend a wide number of different schools from Pulham, Dickleburgh, Hoxne,
Mendham and Fressingfield to Harleston, Bungay and Framlingham to name a few.
They need a place to meet up and develop friendships locally. Also older
children need an opportunity to develop their independence by meeting friends away
from home, but at a safe distance (and not have to cross the treacherous A143).
Q: “So what’s in it for older residents?”
A: Surveying
the village has been a wonderful and fascinating experience - Thank you for
opening your doors to us, and for taking the time to share your views! There
have been some fantastic ideas – for example a herb garden and a coffee shed
where residents can gather to enjoy being outdoors together over a drink and a
slice of cake...with perhaps a spot of gardening if it takes their fancy; or a
perimeter nature walk for dog lovers and those in need of a leg stretch and
some fresh air!
There are
many, many other wonderful ideas, so please contact us if you would like to let
us know what you think or voice any concerns: Needham Action Group at greenigloos@gmail.com
Also: Keep an eye out in future Link issues for
our exciting MAPPING EVENT!
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