Renaissance project looking to the future

Published on 28th June 2007 in News

Developing ways to improve traffic flow and people's perceptions of Goole are on next year's renaissance agenda.

Goole Renaissance (GR) held their first annual general meeting last Friday when they reviewed their progress and agreed the priorities for the 2007-08 period.

Developed over the last 18 months, the Renaissance programme reflects a commitment from partner organisations to improve the use, performance and contribution of Goole's asset and resource base. It also aims to develop new opportunities for the town.

At the meeting, members agreed that the structure of the executive board should remain as it is for the next year and Goole MP Ian Cawsey should continue as chairman.

Last year's achievements, including forming a partnership board, a community consultation exercise, liaison with Selby Renaissance and securing funding for learning centre work and for Oakhill.

GR manager Helen Hoult said: "Renaissance is not just about securing new money, it is equally about how we spend what's already there and getting the best results from it."

Looking to the future said: "Goole Renaissance recognises that the growth plan for Goole focuses on its strong location as a gateway to the Humber trade zone with port, motorway and rail connections.

"Junction 36 - now known as Centreport Business Park - is now a reality with more than £100 m illion investment by Guardian Industries and £85m investment by Tesco."

To secure more benefits for the town, GR plans to build on their growth plan under a five-point framework:

l Economic growth and production - to raise the prosperity of the town with a focus on inward investment, growth and job creation.

l Learning and skills - to raise the skills the town has to offer with a focus on learning facilities and access to courses.

l Recreation, leisure and town pride - to raise the appeal and range of facilities with a focus on sport, the arts and the night-time leisure economy.

l Urban realm, physical environment - to promote pride in the town with a focus on community spaces and housing provision.

l Marketing strategy - image and branding of the town which will make Goole a desirable choice.

Among the key priorities for 2007/08 are economic growth, commissioning a Goole master plan and securing improvements to the town's gateways and corridors, looking to improve signs and traffic flow, encouraging new pedestrian and cycle routes, working with the housing renewal programme and developing a long term marketing campaign to overcome perceptions of 'place'.

More details about Goole Renaissance are available through www.goole-renaissance.co.uk or by calling Helen Hoult on 01405 767654.