RESIDENTS in Wychavon are being urged to have their say on how open space, sport and recreation facilities in the district can be best used.

Wychavon District Council has appointed specialist leisure consultants PMP to carry out the study so any improvements can be made.

The initiative, funded by the local authority, will investigate whether open space meets the needs of local people in terms of quality, quantity and accessibility.

It will cover venues from parks and gardens and woodlands to indoor and outdoor sports facilities, children's play areas and allotments.

Wychavon's executive board member for planning policy and rural affairs Councillor Audrey Steel said: "We are carrying out a public consultation exercise to find out from the people of Wychavon exactly what they want from the open space.

"Parks and open spaces provide great amenity, leisure and health opportunities for people. This work will help us plan an appropriate balance between providing new facilities and enhancing existing ones". PMP will be undertaking an extensive programme of research and consultation with users, providers and other key organisations over the next few months.

As part of this consultation there will be a random sample of household questionnaires being sent out. A series of neighbourhood 'drop in sessions' will also be held around the district during February. Details of these sessions will be advertised.

PMP director of consulting Neil Allen said: "PMP has already successfully completed a number of open space, sport and recreation strategies and local needs assessments and therefore we will be able to bring our extensive expertise to the benefit of Wychavon and its residents."

If anyone has any comments to make regarding any types of open spaces within their area, they should e-mail wdcopenspace@pmpconsult.com or send a text with the prefix Wych and the message to: 07887 546491. People can also write to the following freepost address: Response Service No: NWW8693A, PMP, Brunel Court, Gadbrook Park, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 7ZX.