Newark and Sherwood residents asked to submit ideas on how to spend up to £25m if chosen through government Towns Fund

Residents are being asked to think big as a major consultation is launched to discover how Newark could benefit from a multi-million pound investment.

A survey, which can be completed online, has been launched by Newark and Sherwood District Council to give residents and visitors the chance to submit their ideas to revamp and breathe new life into the town centre.

Newark is one of 100 in the UK selected to take part in the application process for the Towns Fund, a government pledge to invest up to £25m into the town.

Thoughts around education, housing, transport, roads, public spaces and safety are being sought as well as how the town could better meet the needs of residents and visitors.

David Lloyd, district council leader, said: “The Towns Fund is presenting a huge opportunity to refocus the future of Newark and ensure it thrives for generations to come.

“Understandably, the coronavirus pandemic is affecting us all and we are only too aware of the impact it continues to have but we need to have a firm eye on the future.

“Despite current lockdown measures, we are exploring all options available to us to hear your views and your suggestions will directly inform our proposals on how the money could be spent.

“We believe it is vital for residents to be part of this process to ensure that we can find out what people love about Newark and how they want to see it meet the needs of the present and the future.”

In the summer, the council will submit a Towns Fund Investment Plan to the government, setting out a range of projects for the next ten to 15 years that provide a basis for future investment and offer value for money.

The ambition is to re-imagine the town, building on the positives of its independent shops, tourist offer and assets and its historic centre and architecture.

Proposals will need to address issues of retail decline, increasing footfall in the town centre, improving skills and incomes and providing new residential and family offers to the town.

A dedicated programme for children is also being launched in partnership with local primary schools, to invite the voices of tomorrow to submit imaginative ideas for their home town.

The council is also working in partnership with Newark and Sherwood Community and Voluntary Sector to gather the thoughts of residents without internet access.

The closing date of the survey is Wednesday, June 10.

It takes around ten minutes to complete and is available at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/NewarkTownCentre

Anyone wanting the survey in a difference format should call the council on 01636 650000.