Young people across Ivybridge are speaking up about what they want and need for their town.

South Hams District Council, along with students at Ivybridge Community College have launched a survey for 16–24-year-olds which will help create a new vision for Ivybridge.

For the past three months, residents and businesses have been having their say on what they want and need for their town. The consultation so far has received over 500 responses, highlighting the desire for more health facilities, business support, better transport, and more activities for young people

At the same time, the Council have been working with sixth form students from Ivybridge Community College to ensure that the younger community can share their views and influence important decisions. The students, supported by school staff, have formed their own steering group, created a young persons’ survey, and launched a marketing campaign to encourage fellow students to take part.

The survey will ask young people what they feel about their town, how they spend their time, career aspirations and the opportunities they have locally.

Results from both surveys will be used to help the Council develop a Community Economic Plan for the town.

Shannon, Georgia, and Josh from the Young People’s Steering Group at Ivybridge Community College, said: “We wanted to take part to make sure new ideas that come from the project are relevant to young people in Ivybridge.

“We don’t want it to just be the older community that have a voice for Ivybridge.”

Young people can have their say at youngivybridge.commonplace.is
until 29 February.

Cllr John Birch, Executive Member for Economic Development, Commercial Strategy and Governance, at South Hams District Council, said: “It is so important that we connect with our younger community to make sure that Ivybridge develops in a way that meets everyone’s needs.

“If you are aged between 16-24 and live or study in Ivybridge, then take the time to have your say on what you want for your town.

“We would like to thank our young steering group at Ivybridge Community College, and in particular teacher Kim Daniel, for their hard work supporting this important project."

Residents over the age of 24 and businesses can continue to share their views at myivybridge.commonplace.is  until 29 February 2024.