Session 6 focused on strategic action planning, beginning with a first look at the results of the newly closed community survey. The survey received an impressive 135 responses, with 80% from adults and 20% from children and young people under 16. Early results show that people feel positive about Johnstown Bridge and the surrounding areas, particularly its safety, upkeep and strong sense of identity. Areas that were highlighted by local people for improvement include access to natural spaces, better play and recreation areas, safer and better ways to move around without a car, and a stronger sense of community influence over local decisions. Key needs emerging from the feedback also included more social events and gatherings, a local community hub or café, and encouraging greater involvement in community groups and activities.
During the session, participants began prioritising the main challenges they’d identified and brainstorming potential solutions. They explored blue-sky, long‑term ambitions for each challenge, then identified small, achievable six‑month actions to build momentum. This mix of visioning and practical actions will guide the next stages of the process.
In the upcoming sessions, the group will continue shaping these ideas into clearer project plans, outlining the specific steps needed to bring them to life.