Carterton's future takes shape as partners back plans for regeneration and investment
Ambitious plans to breathe new life into Carterton town centre, improve local facilities and create more opportunities for jobs and skills were among the priorities discussed as the Carterton Area Place Board met for the first time.
Representatives from the public, private, community and voluntary sectors recently came together to explore how they can work together to unlock the area's potential, attract investment and deliver lasting improvements for Carterton and the surrounding villages.
Board members backed a joined-up approach to future growth, recognising the importance of planning for the whole area rather than looking at individual developments in isolation. This means looking at how new homes and employment opportunities can be supported by the transport connections, schools, healthcare and other facilities that local communities need.
There was also strong support for revitalising Carterton town centre, with ambitions to create a more vibrant and welcoming place that offers more reasons for people to visit, shop and spend time, particularly families. Engaging with local people to understand what they want from their town centre will be an important part of shaping these plans.
Other opportunities discussed included improving sport and leisure facilities, making the case for a new health and wellbeing centre, and exploring an on-site construction skills hub to support local training and employment.
Members also highlighted the area's strong community spirit and the important role its thriving network of community and voluntary groups can play in shaping its future.
The Board forms part of the Carterton Area Regeneration Framework, which aims to make the most of future growth to strengthen the local economy, attract investment and deliver improvements for existing and future communities.
Cllr Liz Leffman, Executive Member for Planning and Infrastructure, said:
"Carterton and the surrounding area have enormous potential, and we have a real opportunity to shape a stronger future for the people who live and work here. This isn't simply about accommodating development, but making sure it brings lasting benefits, from a thriving town centre and better local facilities to more jobs and opportunities for local people.
"What really stood out from our first meeting was the strength of the community and the shared determination to make things happen. We already have so much to build on, and by bringing partners together, we can champion the area's needs, attract investment and drive forward the improvements that local people want to see.
"This is about making the most of Carterton's potential and ensuring that the whole area benefits, both now and for generations to come."
The Board will meet every two to three months to drive forward priorities. Residents and businesses will be kept updated as work progresses.