A consultation event gathered more than 40 residents and business owners to discuss the enhancement of Ottery town centre.

The town council is now inviting residents and business owners to have their say on the proposals for the future development of the town centre.

The plans focus on a range of enhancements aimed at improving the area's appeal and functionality and fostering a stronger community spirit.

The public event will take place on Wednesday, October 23, from 4pm to 7pm at the council offices on Broad Street.

Residents who are unable to attend the consultation event will have the chance to review the information boards at Ottery St Mary Town Offices from October 24 to 31.

The plans, set in motion by the council in 2023, aim to improve traffic flow, safety, and environmental impact.

The first step in this initiative was a comprehensive traffic study conducted by consultants.

Following this, the Town Council, in collaboration with Callidus Transport & Engineering Ltd and Nash Partnership, organised the consultation event.

The turnout exceeded expectations, with attendees offering a wide variety of comments and suggestions.

Kerry Kennell, the town clerk, expressed her satisfaction with the event's success.

She said: "We were unsure of attendance, but the council meeting room was busy from start to finish.

"I am very pleased with the wide range of comments and suggestions made, and I am confident our consultants will be able to take these away and produce a comprehensive plan to put before the council."

The sentiment was echoed by Robert Spriggs of Callidus Transport & Engineering.

He said: "The event was well attended by a broad range of local interests.

"Many views were raised ranging from thoughts on strategic transport matters to local level transport issues."

Councillor John Green, chair of the EDLC committee, said: "We are looking forward to meeting residents and business owners, listening to feedback on the initial designs and ideas.

"The feedback from the consultation event will be used to finalise the plans for Ottery."

The information gathered during the consultation events will play a significant role in shaping the town's transport study, a key element of the neighbourhood plan.

The consultation events will serve as a foundation for developing a series of schemes that will address transport and movement, ensuring sustainable and thoughtful growth.

Residents interested in playing a more active role in shaping the town's future are encouraged to join the neighbourhood plan steering group.

To learn more about what this involves, contact the town council at admin@otterystmary-tc.gov.uk or call 01404 812252.