RESIDENTS in Test Valley fear the area will become a 'cultural backwater' if new facilities aren't provided.

In a draft version of the Test Valley Community Plan, it has been revealed that hundreds of people think Andover and Romsey's leisure facilities desperately need modernising.

The document says residents are 'particularly keen' to see a cinema in the borough and providing this will be a future challenge.

The plan says the partnership is currently campaigning for funding for a multifunctional arts and entertainment venue for Andover, which will include cinema screens.

It also states that public transport in the borough is not up to scratch - leading to a feeling of isolation among residents in rural areas.

People questioned also said they wanted to see a better healthcare service and an improvement in community spirit.

The community plan, published by the Test Valley Partnership, sets out a series of priorities for the future and aims to improve the quality of life in the borough.

The partnership is made up of voluntary organisations and businesses in the area, Hampshire County Council and the Borough Council.

The final document, to be completed by the end of the year, has been dubbed a 'plan for the people' by council spokeswoman Christine Brown.

The Test Valley Partnership is encouraging everyone to have their say at public meetings to be held in Andover and Romsey to discuss the community plan.

"It is essential that people give us their views and comments on the document and tell us what they think," said Cllr Ian Carr, leader of Test Valley Borough Council.

The plan is now displayed on the Test Valley Borough Council website at www.testvalley.gov.uk.

The Andover meeting will be held in the Guildhall on 23 September at 7:30pm.