Village Survey 2022
Thanks to everyone who completed our Freeland 2032 survey, which ran throughout May and into June 2022. All in all, 149 usable responses were received, and this is a snapshot of the main observations. Please bear in mind this is NOT representative of the whole village, just answers from those who took part – which means results need to be interpreted with care.
Transport and mobility
While over half of those who responded can always get where they want, when they want, just under half experience challenges of some kind, and just under a quarter cannot walk more than a few hundred metres. Those who use public transport mostly use the train, and more than half of participants rarely or never use public transport at all. However, more than half say they would use it more often if it was convenient and available. Better transport links would provide most improvement to the village!
Traffic and cars
Many people were concerned about speeding and volume of traffic, and the danger posed by cars parked on Wroslyn Road, as well as the irritation from cars parked around the school. Better cycling and walking links to Eynsham in particular was mentioned as a way of reducing traffic and improving safety, as well as better pedestrian crossing places in the village and the urgent need to divert traffic around Freeland to reduce impacts from the development of Salt Cross.
Housing and development
The main concern over housing was inappropriate development and over-development, and the risk of merging with neighbouring villages. A small number (6%) said they were looking for housing in the village – mainly smaller properties to downsize to, or starter homes.
Social interaction
More than half of respondents do not live in families, but are single or couples, and these find it harder to socialise and meet people. Lack of social opportunities and the desire to have a strong and supportive community within the village were both echoed throughout the survey. This was for all, but noted particularly for the oldest and youngest respondents.
Salt Cross
This scored 7/10 in terms of level of concern, with 0 meaning no concerns, and 10 meaning highest concerns. Lack of understanding as to why it is needed and the impact it will have, as well as fears over traffic, were largely behind negative scores.
Summary graphs of survey results
Next steps
The Parish Council discussed the survey results at its July meeting and agreed a number of 'next steps', most of which have unfortunately been pushed back due to the retirement village planning appeal, which soaked up considerable Parish Council time between August and December 2022. However, the Parish Council was able to set up a public meeting in October to discuss Salt Cross and the proposed 20mph zone and another update on these will be planned for the Annual Parish Meeting in April.
Regarding other 'next steps', in the survey over 30 people expressed interest in helping with the survey follow up. We're kicking off our focus on 1) social opportunities/community/inclusion, and 2) sustainability/green issues at a meeting in the Village Hall on 3 March. There was also an intent to set up further groups on Amenities, and Transport/traffic, but we will wait to see how we get on with the first two!
In the meantime, anyone interested on being part of a village working group on these issues, please get in touch with Fay the clerk on 01993 357851 or fayf.fpc@gmail.com.