COUNCIL chiefs are thrashing out a blueprint to help people and businesses in Aspatria to thrive.

Members of the county council’s Local Committee for Allerdale have this week agreed to press on with further talks following informal discussions with residents and community leaders.

As part of its area planning for the borough, the Committee may ultimately decide to launch a formal consultation to find out what the townsfolk and business-owners feel should be developed as a priority.

A family fun day held on May 28, themed around healthy living, was used as a litmus test of what residents felt was needed and some of the main issues facing the citizens.

People agreed that Aspatria has a “good community spirit and people feel safe living there”, and also that the town had a “good range” of facilities including schools, fire station, care home, cafes, charity shop, post office and library.

But while the outdoor play parks were well-used, some complained that there were “limited activities” for younger children in the area.

Some of those consulted said Aspatria had an issue with issue with people parking on pavements in residential areas, blocking access for wheelchair users and people with pushchairs.

Respondents also suggested that communication of what is on in the area “is not always effective”, and it was suggested that better use could be made of church and school newsletters to publicise groups and activities.

The county council’s Community Services Team will now work with Allerdale Borough Council and Aspatria Town Council to address some of the concerns raised.

A staff group has also been established to share information on the services and the demand for them in Aspatria.

And it was agreed that there needed to be a more targeted look at what is needed in the town with a drop-in session led by the county council this month.