Stakeholder Meeting
10 December 2020
December’s meeting took place virtually, with over 50 people tuning in from their homes on Thursday evening to hear from stakeholders who have continued making a difference in Andover throughout 2020.
Cllr Phil North began by reflecting on the key ambitions of the Andover Vision and its successes so far since its launch in 2017. Cllr North also noted that despite the challenges brought about by the coronavirus, stakeholders have shown resilience and community spirit through working together via Andover Vision.
We then had updates from our stakeholders, who told us about what they had achieved this year and what they have in plan for the year ahead:
Wendy Davis, from Andover Trees United, provided updates on the Andover Climate day of Action that was originally due to take place in April 2020. A new date has been set – 26 March 2020 – with businesses, communities and individuals being encouraged to make changes to tackle climate change.
Maggie Shelton, from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, updated stakeholders on the Town Mills fish easement project. The project aims to provide easier access for local fish species to swim upstream through Town Mills, where they reproduce and lay eggs, ensuring that Andover and the river Anton retains its biodiversity for years to come.
Graham Smith, Head of Planning Policy at Test Valley Borough Council, spoke about the improvements planned for the High Street and Vigo Recreational Ground. Public consultation on Andover’s public realm will take place in the New Year using a variety of techniques to involve the community, which will be promoted via Andover Vision.
Jess Berry, from North Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group, announced their plans for a ‘healthier communities’ working group in Andover. Many stakeholders expressed their interest in taking part in the working group, kick-starting an exciting project that contributes towards Andover Vision’s ambition of having access to great health in Andover.
Barbara Allen and Debra Ramchurn, from Andover Mind, shared with stakeholders the vital work they have been doing to support residents in maintaining good mental health through what has been a tough year for all of us. They announced three new initiatives – Andover Primary Care, a Skills Opportunity Programme and an ‘Enhancing mental health’ support line.
Roger Evans, from Andover Men’s Shed, provided an insight into the important community function that the Men’s Shed serves. The Men’s Shed is a place for men (and women) to meet new friends, socialise, learn new skills and work together on projects. Currently at around 30 members and based in temporary accommodation in Enham Alamein, they are seeking both new members and a permanent home.
Finally, the event was wrapped up with a screening of the Andover Space Programme’s video on their successful space flight! Their spacecraft was launched from the Memorial Garden into the stratosphere, resulting in spectacular views being recorded from 12 kilometres above.
For more information about any of our stakeholders' updates, or if you would like to get involved, email andovervision@testvalley.gov.uk. We look forward to seeing you again soon!