All systems go for East Hants strategy

Work can begin on a new way of making the district a better place after plans were agreed by East Hampshire District Council.

The new strategy, called Enhance East Hants, sets out how it will improve Alton, Whitehill & Bordon, Petersfield and the southern parishes of Horndean, Rowlands Castle and Clanfield.

It was approved by EHDC’s Full Council on Thursday 19 September.

Cllr Robert Mocatta, Portfolio Holder for Community Development, Placemaking and Infrastructure, said: “The strategy will provide the framework for making the district the most attractive place it can be.

“We all have a role in maintaining and improving towns and villages in East Hampshire. Enhance East Hants will set out how we can make the most of our built and natural environments and improve residents’ lives.”

Part of the plan is to use the experience gathered over the last 10 years transforming Whitehill & Bordon.

The lessons learnt bringing new homes, facilities and infrastructure to the former garrison town can be applied to other places in the district.

The strategy will serve as a starting point which will guide the council as it works with partners, parish and town councils and the local communities to make our places better.

A plan will be drawn up for Petersfield and Alton, and the community of Southern Parishes following the existing framework for Whitehill & Bordon. This framework can subsequently be applied to other communities in the district that will receive new community infrastructure as a result of new development.

Examples of the kinds of projects carried out through Enhance East Hants include improving walking and cycling routes, redeveloping key town centre sites and developing the area for all those who live in it, work in it or visit it.

The council will also look to use developer contributions effectively and ensure that community facilities are delivered as planned.