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Roundhay residents value its character, says survey
The overwhelming reason people choose to live in Roundhay is because they like the character of the area, a survey has revealed.
But there is on-going concern about the impact of the development of apartments and the loss of gardens to accommodate new building.
"Both long- and short-term residents feel the character of the area is so important and any diminution of that character would affect their views on remaining in Roundhay," claimed Mike Fox, chairman of Roundhay Planning Forum which conducted the survey as part of its work to produce a Neighbourhood Design Statement.
* Click here for more Rounday Planning Forum stories.
"It confirms the necessity of the work we are doing."
As reported previously the Forum was formed in 2004 in an attempt to get a more carefully managed approach to planning issues in the area.
If the Design Statement is accepted by the city council as a Supplementary Planning Document it will have to be taken into consideration when dealing with any planning applications.
Another major issue for many was the lack of affordable housing in Roundhay, said Mr Fox. This may be why there was an increase in multi-occupied housing which caused concern to nearby residents if these properties were poorly maintained.
Around 2,000 individual replies have been received to the questionnaires - a "very positive feedback", claimed Mr Fox - and residents had strong views on the level of social, leisure and public services in the area.
"Roundhay Park remains the jewel in Roundhay's crown and a focal point for leisure activities," said Mr Fox.
"Other woodland areas like Gledhow Valley Wood and Gipton Woods have also risen in popularity, no doubt due to the effort of the Friends groups there.
"However, there does seem to be a strong demand for play areas for very young children which has not been totally met by available facilities."
People also felt that there are too few sports facilities in the area, and youth provision and activities for the over-60s were seen as inadequate as there was not a proper community centre outside of those
provided by local churches.
The final public workshop takes place at Talbot Primary School on Saturday, April 26 (10am-4pm) when volunteers will tour the area collating information and taking photographs.
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Monday 21 May 2012
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