AN ANGUS survey has fed into a Scottish Government scheme analysing town centres.
Data in a new report for the Angus Citizen’s Panel (ACP) have shown what people in the county think of their town centres and how they feel they should be improved.
Known as town centre health checks, the analysis is recommended by Holyrood as a way of analysing the factors that contribute to a successful community.
Nearly every person who responded to the survey said they visit Angus town centres more than once a week.
The results showed Forfar and Arbroath are the most visited towns in the county and nearly everyone finds it easy to travel to the town centre they visit most often.
The majority of respondents said the environmental quality of town centres was satisfactory or better.
This included areas of open space, street furniture, public toilets, the levels of graffiti or fly posting and the general conditions of buildings.
Most of those surveyed said the appearance of shop frontages, the levels of litter on streets and public places and overall levels of cleanliness were acceptable.
Although shops in Angus are conveniently located, the survey noted there was generally a poor range of outlets available.
The report stated: “Results from this survey will complement other health check results, for purposes of monitoring and formulating local planning policies and strategy.
“They will also be a very useful evidence base for the Angus local development plan and for town centre monitoring purposes more generally.
ACP’s final survey of the 2012, which gathers views on Angus Council services, experiences of contacting the council and other general information about living in the county, has yet to be analysed.
Community engagement officer Rachel Green said: “The citizens panel is highly regarded within Angus Council and I am never short of suggestions for surveys from different departments.
“The time given is invaluable to ensure that we are aware of citizens opinions on the many services we provide.”
Anyone interested in joining the panel can download an application form from the council’s website or pick one up at any Access office or library.
gbletcher@thecourier.co.uk