Jonathan Woods, Principal Consultant at Knight Kavanagh & Page was recently commissioned by Restormel Borough Council to lead a consultation process aimed at generating and prioritising ideas for the development of St Austell as an ‘active town'.

As part of this, a major open consultation forum, attended by a selection of council officers and key members of the local sports community, was held on 9^th March.  The day included an audit and evaluation of perceived activity levels of activity in St Austell, identification of the town's unique selling points - for residents and visitors, and assessment of how these can be most effectively supported and promoted.

Jonathan found the proactive approach to be particularly good at generating discussions and new ideas. He said, "There is already extensive activity in the town and surrounding areas. It contains one of just the four ‘sports colleges' in Cornwall, a range of projects to get young people and adults more active and, in terms of its infrastructure, numerous cycleways and footpaths.  The impact of this activity will be greater (and more people will be encouraged and supported to be physically active) as local organisations combine effectively. By working together more closely duplication of effort will be avoided and resources targeted more effectively, both at increasing the frequency of participation and at motivating those that are currently inactive."

Jim Cooper, Projects Consultancy Manager, Cornwall Enterprise, based with Restormel Borough Council attended the forum. Commenting on the event, he said, "We had a lively discussion and agreed a way forward. KKP's input to the process stimulated lots of fresh ideas and will ensure that momentum is sustained. The ideas generated will now be incorporated into the future strategy for St Austell."

For further details, please contact:

Jonathan Woods

Principal Consultant

Tel: 01872 261075