SUMMARY

An appraisal of the village of Wray has been undertaken with a relatively high level of support from villagers. The purpose of the appraisal process has been to provide evidence to support the community in taking control of its own future.  Through meetings and questionnaires, villagers' hopes, concerns and ideas for the future of our village have been obtained and are presented here.

Many villagers wish to maintain the character of the village and preserve the many good things we have. However, there are strong feelings that there are ways in which improvements and the development of new facilities, if carefully controlled, could enhance all of our lives. These changes are summarised below and the graph below gives a quick impression of which issues received the most support. However, the appraisal process comprised a number of elements and individual results should not be considered in isolation (more detail on each issue can be found within the main report and the raw results at the end of the report).

High on the list was the acute need for facilities for our young people, in particular a skate boarding area, a place to meet, sports facilities and more clubs within the village. A multi-functional community venue (improved or re-sited institute) is seen as one way of improving and developing a wide range of facilities. Enhanced indoor and outdoor sports and social facilities are required such as tennis, dance, badminton, basketball, football and swimming.

Transport, particularly road safety along Wennington/ Hornby Rd and Main St, is of much concern.  A number of people would like to see a cycle way to Hornby and beyond by 2006. Whilst there are concerns about any further housing developments, there is support for more affordable housing for young people and bungalows for the elderly. Some villagers are keen to see local recycling facilities become available and that we protect the wildlife and natural beauty of Wray.  Preventing dog-fouling, litter and river pollution are important local environmental issues.

Many people value highly our local businesses such as the farms, shop (& post office) and pubs and there is some support for village workshop facilities where local produce could be sold. Outlets for video, clothing and skaters gear were highlighted, as was some form of cinema. There are concerns regarding the adequacy of some health care services (e.g. pharmacy, dentist, sheltered housing for older folk and care for elderly or disabled people). Some villagers are keen a visiting chiropodist is provided and a defibrillator with trained villager(s) has been suggested. There is also some demand for improved education opportunities within the village and communal access to computers.

Concerns about crime appear relatively low, however this is an important issue, particularly to those who have been affected by it. Some villagers believe an increased police presence, a neighbourhood watch scheme and better street lighting would help with crime prevention.

Any improvements or changes will only occur if villagers come forward with the drive and enthusiasm to make our dreams become a reality. However, it is important to many villagers that in making any changes we ensure that we preserve the many good things we already have.

Copies of the main report are available at:

Wray Institute

Parish Council

Wray Historical Society

Dave Hartnup, Hope Cottage

The Church

The Chapel.