18th November 2005

Blackwater Valley - Future Plans

Over the past 35 years the Blackwater Valley has undergone a gradual transformation. From being the forgotten corner of three counties and a general dumping ground compounded by gravel extraction, the Valley is now recognised as a valuable green corridor for recreation and wildlife. But what does the future hold?

Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, who are responsible for co-ordinating much of the management work within the Valley, are inviting anyone who is interested in the Valley’s future development to both read and comment on proposals put forward in the Blackwater Valley Countryside Strategy 2006-10. This draft document puts forward a vision for the Valley over the next 20-years, identifying  seven key aims, with specific proposals for 11 geographic areas. Covering almost 100 pages the draft Strategy lists key project areas and priorities for the future.

“We have done a lot of work putting this Strategy together,” said Steve Bailey, Manager of the BVCP, “So we now need to find out what the communities living and working in the Valley think of the proposals, and to find out if they share our future aims.”

Anyone who has in an interest in the Valley’s development is invited to read the Strategy and complete a questionnaire giving their views. The Strategy can be found at some local libraries; it can be viewed on this website Link to Strategy or it can be read at the BVCP office located at Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS. Please ring 01252 331353 for further details or to make an appointment to read it. Please note that all comments must be received at BVCP by Monday 16th January 2006.

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For more information contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353

Notes

• The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP), was established in the early 1980s and is funded by the County, District and Parish Councils along the River Blackwater. It works to promote community action in conservation and recreation and to protect the Valley for the enjoyment and well being of the whole community.
• Blackwater Valley Countryside Strategy 2006-10 is the latest in a series of strategy documents aimed at improving the Valley.  It puts forward a vision of the Valley covering the next 20 years
• As pressure for development in the south-east is forecast to intensify over the next 20 years, it is essential that the Valley plays its part in meeting the needs of this increased population .