CAR dominated city centre; unsafe for cyclists; nothing for young people; shabby suburbs.

These are the views of Salisbury’s residents, who were asked for their help in deciding how the city should progress.

In fact, it is the views of just 88 locals, after less than a hundred attended six community events in May and June as part of developing Salisbury’s Neighbourhood Plan.

Their views have now been published as part of a report detailing these consultation events, with a clear amount of more ‘weaknesses’ than ‘ strengths’.

Those who attended said they felt the city lacked affordable housing for those wishing to break into the market, as well as an expensive rental market.

This point was pushed further as it was noted about low wages for young people, which coupled with house buying and renting prices, meant that many in that generation were finding it hard to find an affordable place to live within the city boundaries.

Transport was another big issue raised, with congestion, safety, and GPS navigation through the city aired as the main problems needing to be addressed.

Nevertheless, it was not all doom and gloom.

Locals picked out several ‘strengths’ including a strong range of park and ride locations, a ‘walkable’ city centre, the distinctive character of Salisbury, as well as its biodiversity, independent shops, and historic sites.

Those at the meetings were also asked about the ‘opportunities’ the city holds, of which answers included the chance to build a by-pass, the introduction of a new custody suite, and the changes new superfast broadband will bring.

As well as this, ‘threats’ to the city were identified, including city centre traffic, ageing population, failing to keep young people locally, gentrification and high business rates.

To read the full document, visit Salisbury City Council’s website.