PEOPLE in Otley are being asked to help shape the future of their town by giving their views in an online survey.

Otley Town Council is appealing for residents, businesses and visitors to take part in the latest step in its Street Vision project. The project, described as "bold" aims to transform Otley into a safer, healthier environment for people to walk, wheel or cycle by 2030, while providing an accessible town centre that is full of life and meets the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.

The project, in conjunction with transport planning and urban design consultants PJA, will also help the town tackle the declared Climate Emergency by reducing emissions and providing a safer living environment for all.

A public consultation on the town centre is taking place now, with a second stage later in the year covering the whole town. The consultation is intended to gather the views of residents, businesses and visitors to help shape the future design of the town and gauge appetite for change. Respondents are encouraged to consider issues including improved pedestrian crossings, continuous footways on minor streets, safety and placemaking improvements at junctions, traffic calming, and the widening of pedestrian footways.

Chair of Otley Town Council Richard Hughes said: “We firmly believe that the Climate Emergency is a priority which is why we want to make it easier for people to leave their cars at home and walk or cycle for short journeys. We also want to improve accessibility and safety across the town, while making Otley a more attractive place for visitors and residents alike.

“Street Vision is an ambitious project that will help shape the future of Otley for generations. Determining the views of the public on how their town will change over the coming years is an important next step in the process and we encourage as many people as possible to complete the consultation survey.”

The council is appealing for as many people as possible to provide their views by completing the online survey at https://forms.office.com/r/AtmzzUQBPy by April 29. Paper copies of the survey are also available from the town council offices at Otley Core, Unit 11 Orchard Gate. The form is also downloadable from a QR code at the same location.