Rushden Town Council welcomed local business leaders to networking event

Rushden Town Council welcomed business leaders and owners from across the town to its second business networking event held at Rushden Hall.

The event saw over 40 representatives of local businesses come together to network and listen to a presentation by planning consultants, Troy Planning + Design on the new Rushden Design Code and Neighbourhood Plan update.

The Design Code, is part of the National Planning Policy Framework set out by government and its purpose is to support local councils and communities to set standards around design in their local area. The Design Code should help in the development of more attractive and sustainable living and work spaces. The Rushden Design Code is guided by a Design Vision and a set of strategies that are being developed through community engagement and the updated Rushden Neighbourhood Plan. Through these documents we hope to improve the town and overall environment by maintaining green open spaces, preserving the town's important heritage, biodiversity assets and ensuring the town is an attractive place to live and work.

The Business Event provided an opportunity for the town council to share emerging work with the community and receive their feedback and ideas. All attendees were invited to respond to a Business Survey prior the event with a summary of the results being shared during the session. The attendees also took part in an instant poll where they could respond using their smartphones.

A representative of Troy Planning + Design commented that, "Participants provided insightful inputs, ideas and dialogue throughout the event.
"Multiple discussions were had that will assist in understanding what types of issues the Design Code and the Neighbourhood Plan Update might address moving forward."

Gareth Evans, Company director of Rushden Printing Solutions based on Portland Road said, "It was energising to be surrounded by Rushden's diverse business community.
"The presentation on the potential changes to the town centre was very interesting and I encourage all local businesses to get involved in the town council's consultations to help shape the Rushden in a manner that encourages growth for local businesses."

Rushden Town Council are aiming to hold its next community consultation early next year and details of the event will be published on our website and social media.

If you would like to be added to our mailing list to find out about our latest business news and events, please email info@rushdentowncouncil.gov.uk