Community planning is an ideal opportunity, for creating a shared vision of community-identified priorities, which demonstrates the commitment and support of the organisations and groups involved. One thing is clear.
Community planning is a complex process with huge potential benefits.
It is important to recognise at the outset that it will take time and effort to develop an effective process, however, Dover District Council are prepared to undertake the co-ordination and facilitation of the process. The Government wants to see strategies being prepared by 'local strategic partnerships', bringing together councils, public sector agencies, local businesses, voluntary organisations and local communities. Strategies should set out a shared vision for the community that reflects local aspirations and recognises the potential for all sections of the community to contribute ideas and resources. Whilst it is important to develop a strategy document, partnerships must guard against the danger of producing 'yet another plan'. The process, involving local communities and working with partners, is equally important.