The Fool on the Hill: Place Standard Tool Summariser: Full Test Run

As I've mentioned before, I'm working (with a group of other volunteers) on producing a Local Place Plan for Auchencairn, and, in the process of doing that, we're using the Place Standard Tool. Data from the Place Standard Tool is delivered as an unwieldy CSV file with 53 columns, most of which contain narrative data. This is pretty hard to analyse.

I'm prejudiced against 'Artificial Intelligence' summarisers, because I do to some extent understand how the technology works and know how shallow it is. But other members of the working group urged that we should use it, so I've written a tool to automate summarising the data. And, actually, I'm quite pleased with it.

The tool is (of course) written in Clojure. It involved a few interesting problems, and I'm quite pleased with how I've solved them. It represents less than one man day of work. That is much less than the time it would take me to summarise this data manually, and if the tool is also used by other teams to summarise their data, then it's an enormous saving of time. Of course, the output from AI text summarisers is not perfect and needs to be checked, but nevertheless this is a useful starting point.

I'm using Google's Gemini as a back end. I found this pretty easy to work with.

This remainder of this post is the output from a sample of a test run, on data drawn from the Auchencairn survey.

Moving around

This is a summary of feedback on accessibility and transport in a village, likely Auchencairn. The main themes are:

Positives:

• Pleasant Environment: Quiet roads (especially within the village), good air quality, and scenic walking routes are appreciated. The 20mph speed limit within the village is seen as a plus.
• Good for Drivers: Many residents who use their cars find the area accessible.
• Walking: The village itself is generally considered walkable, with some nice paths (e.g., Hugh Paton Path).

Negatives:

• Public Transport: This is the biggest issue. Buses are infrequent, unreliable, don't connect well with other services and difficult to access with wheelchairs. Some want better connections to larger towns like Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Kirkcudbright. No public transport during weekends.
• Road Safety and Cycling: Many feel unsafe cycling on main roads due to fast-moving traffic (cars, tractors, lorries) and a lack of dedicated cycle paths. Some drivers are not cyclist-aware.
• Path and Road Maintenance: Poorly maintained roads (potholes) and uneven/rough pavements are a concern, especially for wheelchair users, people with buggies, and the elderly. Uneven boardwalk.
• Accessibility Issues: A lack of dropped kerbs and uneven surfaces make it difficult for wheelchair and buggy users in certain areas.
• Walking Outside the Village: It's considered unsafe to walk outside the village in certain areas due to a lack of pavements and verges.
• E-bike scheme: Appears to be unreliable and under-resourced

Suggestions for Improvement:

• Improve Public Transport: More frequent and reliable bus services, better connections, and easier accessibility (wheelchair-friendly buses). Bus services to run to link up with other bus and train timetables
• Create Cycle Paths and Safe Walking Routes: Dedicated cycle paths, especially along main roads (A711), and safe walking routes connecting the village to nearby attractions (beach, woods). Some suggest Cycle tracks on A711.
• Road and Path Maintenance: Repair potholes, resurface roads, and improve pavement conditions.
• Traffic Calming: Reduce speed limits (e.g., to 20 mph on Shore Road), cautionary signs.
• Community Transport Options: Communal electric car, organised shared shopping trips, reinstate community car scheme
• Signage: Better signposting of off-road paths and awareness campaigns for road users to be more cyclist/pedestrian aware.

In short, the village is seen as pleasant and walkable within its boundaries, but significant improvements are needed for public transport, road safety, and accessibility, particularly for those relying on buses, cycling, or with mobility issues.

Public transport

This data represents a survey on public transport in a rural area, likely Auchencairn and surrounding villages in Scotland. Here's a summary:

Overall Sentiment: Public transport is seen as somewhat inadequate, with many residents relying on private cars. While some appreciate the existence of bus services, a significant number feel it could be much better.

Positive Aspects:

• The existence of some bus services is appreciated, particularly the 505 (Kirkcudbright-Dalbeattie) and 516 (Castle Douglas-Auchencairn) routes.
• The Young Scots Card making travel affordable for young people is seen as a positive.
• For some (especially older residents), the current service is considered adequate for the village's size, with some acknowledging the potential unprofitability of more extensive services.

Common Complaints & Suggestions for Improvement:

• Frequency: The most common complaint is the lack of frequent buses. Many would like more regular services throughout the day.
• Reliability: Unreliable timetables are a major issue. Buses are often late or don't show up at all, making planning difficult. Real-time updates on bus locations are desired.
• Evening/Late Services: Lack of buses (and taxis) in the evenings is a major problem, particularly for young people trying to get home from work or activities. A 4 PM last bus is a recurring concern.
• Connectivity: Poor connections between bus routes (especially to Dumfries), and between buses and trains are a problem. Return tickets not always accepted on connecting buses.
• Direct Routes: A desire for direct routes to Dumfries without requiring changes (especially from Auchencairn).
• Accessibility: Some concerns about accessible buses and the need for better bus shelters (especially at Balliol Court).
• Cost: Some feel the cost of bus travel, especially for families, is too high compared to driving.
• Alternative Solutions: Suggestions include smaller, more frequent "people carriers" instead of large, empty buses and a local taxi-type service.
• Bike integration: Desire for buses to be able to carry bikes, and dedicated cycle lanes.

In short, the key themes are more frequent, more reliable, and better-connected bus services, especially in the evenings, to improve accessibility and encourage greater public transport usage.

Traffic and parking

This data summarizes resident opinions on traffic and parking in Auchencairn. Here's a breakdown:

• Overall Satisfaction: Ratings on "Traffic and Parking" are varied, ranging from 1 to 7, indicating mixed feelings. Many residents rate it around 4-6.
• Positive Aspects: Many find parking adequate, especially in non-peak times. The 20mph speed limit is appreciated when adhered to. The village's rural setting and good road links are seen as positives. Free parking is seen as supporting the local economy.
• Key Issues and Suggested Improvements:
  • Parking Congestion: A common complaint is limited parking, especially near the village shop/garage and during village hall events, leading to road blockage.
  • Parking Solutions: Suggestions include additional parking spaces for tourists, events, and residents (potentially using the bowling green car park). Better signage for existing parking areas is also proposed. Some specifically request additional parking near popular walking areas. A resident's car park to free up space for visitors is also suggested.
  • Speeding: Many cite speeding vehicles, especially tractors, lorries and general traffic, as a problem, particularly through the main street. They request better enforcement of the 20mph limit, reduced speed limits, and restrictions on large vehicles.
  • Traffic Flow: Narrow roads and single-file traffic during busy times are concerns. Parked cars on pavements make it unsafe for pedestrians, especially children.
  • Specific Vehicle Issues: Heavy agricultural vehicles and needlessly noisy vehicles are a concern for some. Careless driving by delivery vehicles is also mentioned.
  • "Van Lifers": A specific complaint about long-term parking by "van lifers" who are not paying council tax.
  • Balcary Overcrowding: Overcrowding at Balcary on public holidays leads to parking on nearby land and passing places, obstructing the road.
  • Electric Vehicle Infrastructure: Concerns about the impact of electric charging infrastructure on existing parking.

Streets and spaces

This data represents a survey about the streets and spaces in a village. Here's a summary of the key themes:

What's Good:

• Green spaces and play areas: Many residents appreciate the available green spaces like Link Park, community gardens, and playing fields. They're generally considered well-maintained and appealing.
• Community assets: The community shop is highly valued as a community hub. The village hall, bike workshop, and community allotments are also seen as assets.
• Attractive village: Many respondents describe the village as attractive, with well-maintained buildings, gardens, and a pleasant atmosphere. Some highlight the vernacular architecture.
• Safety and cleanliness: The streets and public spaces are often described as clean, safe, and well-maintained.

What Could Be Better:

• Need for a Pub/Restaurant: The most frequently mentioned desire is for a pub or restaurant in the village, with many lamenting its absence.
• Improved Play Facilities: More/updated play equipment is desired, especially for older children. The slipperiness of existing equipment when wet is a concern.
• Community Space/Facilities: Desire for improved/larger community hall and more community-owned spaces (e.g., for growing food). Reopening old spaces into community hubs.
• Accessibility and Maintenance: Concerns about uneven pavements, weeding, grass cutting, and general maintenance, especially in areas like the cemetery and entrances to the village. There is a desire for improved accessibility, particularly for wheelchair users.
• Commercial Activity and Workshops: Some residents would like more commercial activity, specifically small-scale workshops.
• Housing and Affordability: A need for more affordable housing options for young families is mentioned.
• Village Identity and Planning: Some express concern about over-development and a desire to preserve the village's original character. Critiques of planning decisions and "doctrinaire planning" are present.
• Flooding Issues: One respondent highlights an unresolved issue with road flooding.
• Social Concerns: One respondent expressed negative feelings towards council housing residents. Another touches on issues of homelessness, class divisions and biased community ideals.

In short, the village is generally appreciated for its natural beauty, community spaces, and overall upkeep, but residents desire more amenities (especially a pub), improved maintenance and accessibility, and solutions to specific issues like flooding and affordable housing.

Natural space

This data represents survey responses from residents of Auchencairn regarding their access to and enjoyment of natural spaces, and suggestions for improvement.

Overall Sentiment:

• The vast majority of respondents rate their access to natural space highly (mostly 6s and 7s).

What's Good Now:

• Abundant Greenspace: The dominant positive is the abundance of natural spaces: woodlands, beaches, countryside, hills, fields, coastline, gardens, parks (especially Link Park), and play areas.
• Accessibility: Easy access to these spaces is frequently mentioned, as is the scenic beauty.
• Community: Mentions of community spaces and gardens, and a positive community atmosphere are also noted.

Areas for Improvement:

• Accessibility (Specific Issues): A recurring theme is improving accessibility for prams, wheelchairs, and those with mobility issues. This includes better paths, dropped kerbs, accessible gates/styles, and reduced speed limits on Shore Road.
• Maintenance & Tidiness: Concerns about the tidiness of public spaces (Link Park, allotments, village hall) and dog fouling are raised.
• Facilities: Suggestions for better facilities for camping vans (waste disposal), maintaining public toilets, more seating in the village, and play equipment for older children.
• Access to Restricted Areas: Some respondents feel access to coastal areas and open spaces is restricted by private landowners and would like more open access for the public.
• Environmental Concerns: Concerns about agricultural practices like slurry spraying, loss of biodiversity due to field intensification, and the removal of natural features in fields are expressed.
• Signage & Information: Improved signage and walking route information is suggested.
• Community & Events: A desire for more community events, specifically outdoor music and creative events, is voiced.
• Succession planning: Ensure that there is a succession plan so that volunteers are in place to continue the work in the community.
• A pub: One respondent would like a pub.

In essence, residents appreciate the natural environment of Auchencairn but have specific suggestions for improving accessibility, maintenance, and community engagement with these spaces.

Play and recreation

This data represents community feedback on play and recreation in their area. Here's a summary of the key themes:

What's Good:

• Outdoor Spaces: Many appreciate the existing parks, playing fields, coastal access, hills, beaches, and green spaces. Village halls, community gardens and school facilities are also valued.
• Good for Younger Children: Several respondents note that the existing facilities are good for younger children.
• Community Engagement: Some feel the community is engaged and activities revolve around the village hall.
• Safe Spaces: Some residents feel they have safe places.

Areas for Improvement:

• Play Park Improvements: A major theme is the need for better and more inclusive play parks. This includes more challenging equipment for older children, features for disabled children, safety improvements (like fencing and addressing gaps in existing equipment), and more accessible parks in general.
• Teen/Young Adult Focus: A recurring concern is the lack of activities and spaces for teenagers and young adults. Suggestions include youth clubs, more evening activities in the village, and better transport to nearby towns with youth services.
• More Activities/Events: Several people want more community events, classes for adults, and entertainment in the village hall.
• Better Connectivity: There's a desire for linking longer walking routes, safe cycle tracks, and better pedestrian crossings (like a zebra crossing near the park).
• Community Hubs: Suggestions include a village pub, a community pool, a gym, and covered spaces in the community garden for events.
• Village Hall Improvements: Some suggest revamping or better utilizing the village hall for events and activities. Also generally, upkeep of village halls to encourage regular use.
• Address Safety Concerns: Some concerns were raised about the speed of traffic near the park and shop, and the need to enforce speed limits.
• Utilize Existing Spaces: Suggestions include allowing access to school playgrounds during out-of-school hours, more effective use of sports fields, and turning under-utilized spaces (like the old bowling green or a church) into community assets.
• Encourage Local Businesses: Suggestions to encourage local businesses and restaurants to open in Castle Douglas.
• Funding: Funding to move the nursery and build youth club cabin next to the football pitches was suggested.
• Public Toilets: The need to make sure to keep the public toilets was also mentioned.

In essence, the community generally appreciates the natural environment and some existing facilities, but there's a strong desire for more inclusive, engaging, and accessible recreational opportunities, particularly for teenagers and young adults, and improvements to existing play areas.

Facilities and services

This data represents a survey about facilities and services in a village (likely Auchencairn, based on mentions). Here's a summary of the key points:

Positives:

• Strong Community Spirit: A recurring theme is the excellent community spirit, helpfulness, and informal support networks.
• Village Shop: The village shop and cafe are consistently highlighted as a vital asset, acting as a community hub, providing essential goods, and often praised for its staff and quality.
• Primary School & Nursery: The local primary school and nursery are frequently mentioned as being excellent, caring, and important for young families.
• Village Hall: The village hall is considered a valuable asset for meetings, clubs, and events.
• Proximity to Larger Towns: While services within the village may be limited, access to services, hospitals, and shopping in nearby towns like Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie, and Dumfries is generally considered good.

Areas for Improvement:

• Accessibility & Transport: Poor public transport is a significant concern, especially for those without cars, making it difficult to access healthcare appointments, services, and shopping. Reliable transport options, more frequent bus services, and potential communal travel solutions are desired.
• Services for Elderly & Disabled: Accessing care at home and support for the elderly and infirm is difficult, highlighting a need for improved local care services. Access issues to community spaces were also mentioned.
• More Local Services: There is a desire for more services within walking distance of the village, including:
  • A Pub/Restaurant
  • More reliable/frequent Post Office service
  • Mobile services (library, pharmacy, GP surgery)
  • Better health and social care coverage
• Community Group Collaboration: Some respondents feel that community groups could work together more effectively. One person noted an initiative that felt unapproachable.
• Affordable Housing: A need for affordable housing is expressed to attract young families and keep the school open.
• Recycling: Better recycling options are desired, such as glass recycling pick-up.
• Internet Access at the Hall: Adding internet access to the village hall would increase its usability for community events.
• Electric Vehicle Charging: Provision of a public electric charging point.
• Food Access: Interest in weekly markets or access to locally produced food.
• Funding: Concerns about draining the NHS and local services.

Other Issues:

• Concerns about the cost and selection of goods at the village shop for some residents.
• Complaints regarding inexperience of local doctors.
• Questions raised about the local social housing integration.

Work and local economy

This data represents a survey about the work and local economy in a village, likely Auchencairn, Dumfries and Galloway.

What's Good:

• Volunteering opportunities are plentiful and valued. The community shop, local groups, and climate transition initiatives are frequently mentioned.
• A strong sense of community and active local organizations. Many residents highlight the engaged community, local events, and initiatives.
• Existing local businesses are appreciated: The village shop (especially its youth employment policy), cafe, primary school, nursery, garage, and some farms are seen as beneficial. Self-employment is also noted.
• Broadband access helps support home working.

What Needs Improvement:

• Lack of job opportunities, particularly for young people. Low pay, insecure work, and seasonal tourism jobs are concerns. Limited options force people to seek work outside the village.
• Poor public transport. Makes it difficult for residents to access jobs and services outside the village.
• Affordable housing is scarce. High housing costs, driven partly by retirees and second homes, price young people out and contribute to population decline.
• Need for diverse job opportunities and training. Respondents desire more skilled jobs, opportunities for further education/retraining, apprenticeships, and support for business development (workshops, industrial spaces). Specific suggestions include growing the service economy, renewable energy sector, and value-added processing of local resources like timber and meat.
• Support for small businesses. More local support for businesses might lead to increased job availability.
• Better mobile phone signal.

Underlying Themes:

• Retaining young people is a key concern. Many residents fear the village is becoming unsustainable due to a lack of opportunities for the younger generation.
• The reliance on volunteers is both a strength and a potential weakness.
• The need to balance tradition and progress. Some comments suggest tension between preserving the village's character and embracing changes that could bring economic benefits.

Housing and community

This data represents opinions on housing in a particular area. The key takeaways are:

• Housing Affordability Crisis: Overwhelmingly, the biggest concern is the lack of affordable housing, especially for young families and those on local wages. Existing housing stock is often too expensive.

• Impact of Second Homes/Holiday Lets: Many respondents feel that second homes and holiday rentals are exacerbating the affordability problem by reducing available housing and driving up prices.

• Need for More Social Housing: There is strong support for more social housing to address the affordability issue and to retain or attract young families to the area, supporting local businesses and the community.

• Type of Housing: A desire for more diverse housing options, including smaller, energy-efficient, and potentially cooperative housing models. Some respondents feel there aren't enough 3+ bedroom properties.

• Community Impact: Concerns are raised about the impact of unaffordable housing on the community's long-term viability, particularly the potential loss of young people and the closure of schools.

• Mixed Opinions on Development: While more housing is desired by many, some are wary of further development, wanting to preserve the village's character.

• Suggestions for Solutions:

  • Increase council tax on second homes/holiday lets.
  • Relax planning regulations for small-scale, sustainable builds.
  • Home improvement schemes, potentially means-tested.
  • Advice on insulation and solar panels for energy efficiency.

Social interaction

This data reflects community feedback on social interaction in Auchencairn. Here's a summary:

Key Strengths:

• Village Shop: The community shop/cafe is consistently highlighted as a vital social hub and meeting place for villagers and tourists.
• Village Hall: The Village Hall is used for events and activities, but there is a desire for more use, improvement, and/or versatility.
• Community Spirit: Many respondents note a strong sense of community, friendly people, and a variety of groups and activities.
• Community-Organised Events: Frequent mentions of community-organised events.

Areas for Improvement:

• Lack of a Pub: The loss of the village pub is a major concern and a frequently mentioned need. Many suggest a new pub or social club is needed.
• Activities for Specific Groups: There is a desire for more activities for children, youth, and the elderly (especially daytime activities).
• Village Hall Improvements: Respondents suggest the village hall could be revitalised and used more frequently.
• Communication: Better ways to disseminate village information more widely.
• Versatile Space: The need for a larger, more versatile indoor space for various community activities is mentioned. One person suggested repurposing the church.
• Public Transportation: To help those less able to travel by car.
• Community Cohesion: Some feel neighbors are closed off and there needs to be a greater effort to come together.

Overall:

Auchencairn has a generally positive sense of community with existing hubs like the shop and village hall. However, the loss of the pub is keenly felt, and there's a desire for more diverse activities and spaces to cater to different age groups and interests, particularly to improve youth engagement and support the elderly.

Identity and belonging

This is a summary of survey responses regarding identity and belonging in Auchencairn. Key themes and concerns emerge from the data:

Positive Aspects:

• Strong Community Spirit: Many respondents, across different age groups, highlight a strong sense of community, friendliness, and helpfulness.
• Active Local Groups: Organizations like ACT and the History Society are seen as vital and active, contributing to the village's vibrancy. Volunteers are crucial.
• Positive Reputation: Auchencairn has a reputation for being a welcoming place with a strong environmental focus and artistic presence.
• Village Assets: The school, shop, and cafe are viewed as important assets that attract families and support the community.

Areas for Improvement:

• Social Divisions: A recurring concern is the presence of divisions within the village, including perceived stigma against social housing tenants and those in informal housing situations.
• Integration: Several respondents feel that there needs to be more interaction between the core village and social housing schemes.
• Housing Affordability: There's a worry that inflated housing prices are displacing local young people. The need for affordable housing options is emphasized.
• Activities and Support: Some residents would like more varied activities and support for those who are isolated.
• Volunteers needed: More volunteers always needed.
• Village Appearance: The appearance of the village could be improved.
• Lack of Diversity: Some feel that additional job opportunities may help with the lack of diversity/ cultural awareness
• Need for a Pub: One respondent felt the village needed a pub.

Feeling safe

This data represents a survey on feelings of safety within a village/community. Key takeaways are:

• High Perception of Safety: The majority of respondents reported feeling safe (ratings of 5-7 out of 7). Many specifically described the area as "safe," "very safe," or a "safe community."
• Speeding Concerns: A recurring theme is concern about speeding vehicles within the village, especially in 30mph zones and near the primary school. Residents suggest traffic calming measures and increased police presence.
• Other Issues Mentioned: Other concerns mentioned included:
  • Littering from vehicles and visitors.
  • Misunderstandings regarding Scotland's "right to roam" laws.
  • Desire for better mobile coverage and improved pavements.
  • Concerns about affordable housing residents.
  • The need for a pub.
  • Gypsy vans parking.
  • Securing the school roll.
  • A resilience action plan for emergencies and climate change.
  • Giving youth a greater voice in the community.
• Positive Aspects: Many respondents highlighted the friendly and inclusive nature of the community.

Care and maintenance

This data represents community feedback on the care and maintenance of their village. Key themes emerging include:

• Generally Positive Sentiment: Many residents feel the village is generally well-maintained, clean, and tidy. They appreciate community pride and individual efforts in maintaining properties and open spaces.
• Road and Pavement Issues: A recurring concern is the poor condition of roads, particularly potholes, and the need for better pavement maintenance and repairs. Weeding is also frequently mentioned.
• Litter and Untidiness: Litter, especially from motorists, is a persistent problem. Some feel the village can appear unkempt due to overgrown roadsides and a lack of weeding.
• Council Performance: There are mixed opinions about the council's performance, with some praising their responsiveness and others criticizing their inefficiency and perceived lack of investment in the area. Some call for more accountability from the council.
• Recycling and Waste Management: There's a desire for more recycling options and potentially local solutions for waste management.
• Specific Concerns: Other issues include the appearance of certain properties (e.g., a local garage), Japanese knotweed, the coastal boardwalk condition, street lighting repairs, and a negative view of a specific "E bike gypsy site."
• Community Spirit: The importance of volunteers and community collaboration in maintaining the village is highlighted.
• Suggestions for Improvement: Specific suggestions include more planters, community gardens for food growing, a local composting scheme, and addressing the "mentality of littering."

Influence and sense of control

This document presents a collection of survey responses regarding community engagement and quality of life. Key themes and sentiments include:

• Varying Levels of Influence: Respondents rated their sense of influence and control on a scale, with scores ranging from 1 to 7, indicating diverse perceptions of agency within their communities.
• Community Consultation: Some participants noted positive aspects of community consultation, highlighting the presence of active community councils, fundraising initiatives, and opportunities to express opinions through surveys and questionnaires.
• Concerns About Consultation Effectiveness: Several respondents voiced concerns that consultation processes might not genuinely influence decision-making at higher levels (e.g., government or regional council), leading to disengagement and a sense that local opinions are disregarded.
• Regional Council Issues: Some respondents feel there are financial problems with the regional council which has far reaching consequences. Some feel the council aren't consulting properly when money is being spent.
• Volunteerism & Community Groups: The reliance on volunteers and the importance of community groups were mentioned, along with the challenge of attracting new volunteers and succession planning for these organizations.
• Specific Community Issues: Some comments address local issues, such as concerns about the allocation of public funds and a perceived lack of benefit to the community, as well as a desire for a pub and issues with gypsy people, highlighting the need for the community to earn respect and issues around consultation.
• Suggestions for Improvement: Suggestions included more proactive engagement from Dumfries and Galloway Council, decentralizing control from Scotgov to local government, systematic consultation, more collaboration between groups, and more support for new ideas, especially those from younger generations.
• Sense of Exclusion: Some felt excluded and that their views weren't listened to.
• Local Government Size: A participant mentioned the need to split Dumfries and Galloway into smaller local government areas, to bring it into line with democratic norms across Europe.

Review

This data represents community feedback on various issues, categorized by age and gender. Key themes emerging include:

• Housing: Strong demand for more affordable housing, particularly for young families to keep the village alive.
• Transportation: Concerns about public transport (frequency, routes), the need for better car parking, and safer routes for cyclists and pedestrians.
• Community Amenities: Desires for more parks, play areas (including those accessible for disabled children), a village pub, social activities, and a better shop.
• Employment: A need for more job opportunities and attraction strategies to incentivise industry investment.
• Infrastructure: Concerns about road quality, mobile phone signals, and the tidiness of streets.
• Climate Change: Interest in affordable, energy-efficient housing and advice on tackling climate change.
• Community Engagement: Suggestions for working with local organisations and attracting funding for community activity and re-establishing a weekly pensioners club.
• Specific Concerns: A complaint about an E-bike site and parking issues related to a local shop. Also a suggestion about vetting residents in affordable housing.

Next steps

This data represents feedback from residents of varying ages and genders on community needs. Key themes emerging from the "Next Steps" column include:

• Affordable and Social Housing: A strong and frequent request, particularly for families and younger individuals. Suggestions include building more social housing, assessing needs for affordable housing, and controlling second homes/Airbnb.
• Improved Public Transportation: Better bus links, more frequent buses, and support for community transport initiatives are desired, aiming for increased connectivity.
• Community Support and Engagement: This includes supporting community activities, listening to locals, lobbying the council, and improving village hall infrastructure.
• Local Economy and Employment: Suggestions include creating local employment opportunities (small industrial estate, support for local businesses), encouraging local employment and training, and leveraging local resources.
• Land Use and Sustainability: There are ideas around purchasing agricultural land for community use (small holdings), allocating space for vegetable growing, promoting low carbon travel, and sustainable housing.
• Age-Related Considerations: One respondent suggests giving more weight to younger people's views, while others mention concerns specific to older residents.

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