Blueprint aimed at revitalising village life

Regeneration consultancy BlueFish says the blueprint will improve the lives of residents of Aberford, east of Leeds.

Produced with Aberford Parish Council, the plan drew on consultation with more than 250 local people who identified projects that could create better opportunities for everyone.

Traffic, motorway noise and a lack of sports and young people’s facilities were identified as causes for concern.

The regeneration consultancy’s plan has now set out a vision for the area.

It features project ideas for the community, including revitalising Aberford village hall to include flexible business space for co-working; addressing the need for high-speed broadband connectivity for residents and businesses; and plans for high-quality recreation spaces for young people.

BlueFish Regeneration managing director Imelda Havers said: “It’s heartening that a rural area has undertaken this pioneering scheme, which will shape the vision for this historic rural village until 2020. This is the coalition government’s Big Society in action.”

“Although Aberford is fairly small and rural in nature, it forms an important part of the Leeds metropolitan area because of its proximity to the A1(M) and M1 motorways. The enthusiastic community input reflects the strong desire to create something that will retain its own distinctive character.”

Local Conservative MP Alec Shelbrooke said: “I will be taking this plan back to colleagues in Westminster and in particular for Bob Neill, Minister for Communities and Local Government, to show how communities are taking charge of their affairs in a positive and forward-thinking manner.”

Turning the village hall into a business and community centre has been identified as a priority.