A TOP level meeting is taking place today to launch a draft strategy which could help shape the future of Test Valley. Representatives of the Test Valley Strategic Partnership were due to converge on Cricklade College to launch the draft community strategy.
Now an extensive consultation process will begin to enable a wide-ranging debate on the strategy and the top priorities it identifies.
Although Test Valley is seen as a good place to live and work, the draft document points out people are most concerned about youth nuisance, underage drinking and anti-social behaviour.
"Despite the relatively low rates of recorded crime, fear of crime continues to run at a disproportionately high level," said the draft document.
Among the proposals being discussed today and over the next few months will be measures to reduce crime and the fear of it by addressing issues of anti-social behaviour, preventing its occurrence and taking action against those who cause offence through anti-social behaviour.
Other measures include providing a range of constructive activities and facilities, which will enable young people to make better use of their time.
Securing the future and developing the work of the neighbourhood warden scheme is another measure.
The partnership will also attempt to tackle burglary by targeting persistent offenders who commit the crime.
Other priorities involve leisure and culture, housing and community development, environment, health and well-being, education and learning, transport and economic development.
The partnership is made up of a wide-ranging group of organisations from all sections of the community including public, private, voluntary and the community sector.
Members include Test Valley Community Services, Testway Housing, Andover Chamber of Commerce, Test Valley Borough Council, Hampshire Constabulary and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.
After the consultation process there will be a series of meetings during September and October and in November the partnership will meet to approve the final version of the community strategy.
Once that process is completed the strategy itself should be published in December this year.
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