MORE than 3,300 people shared their views to help shape the future of Basingstoke town centre.

Following the launch of the Gazette’s campaign Basingstoke Deserves Better, which is calling for urgent action to be taken to improve our town centre, the council has now responded to explain what it is doing next.

In March this year, the borough council enlisted the help of a team of experts – at a cost of £187,733 – to develop a vision for the town centre area over six months.

Six months on, the Gazette asked the council to share with us that vision and the outcome of the six-month project.

Councillor Hannah Golding, cabinet member for economic development, said its consultants have been analysing feedback from the 3,300 people who shared their views in a survey.

She said they are currently “developing a draft version and masterplan principles which will consider bold short, medium and long-term opportunities”.

Once this work is complete the council will again ask for feedback from residents, businesses and groups on the ideas suggested in October, before a decision to adopt a new strategy for the town centre is made by all councillors early next year.

Cllr Golding added: “The development of an ambitious strategy for the town centre has been a key priority for the council for some time and it is important that we consider how we can ensure our town centre is a top shopping and leisure destination that attracts people to the area for years to come.”