Conclusions

Some interesting and important facts have emerged from the results of the appraisal. It shows that 65% of residents would like Pluckley to stay as it is. Most people positively valued a sense of place and local identity. The most content seem to be the over 60s, with about a quarter believing the provision for them to be good or reasonable.

Among the concerns affecting village life is the problem of road traffic hazards. Many 'danger spots' were identified, confirming the need to achieve better control of traffic speed and of the continuing growth of heavy commercial vehicles. 

The appraisal results also show better communication is needed in parish and borough council decisions that affect the community. A low level of support was given for further general new housing in the village. Where support was shown it was mostly for small family homes, accommodation for young people, and houses to rent.

Some of the subjects that came to the fore have already been taken in hand - in some instances they were already in the planning stages before the questionnaire replies were in: fuller reports of parish council work appear in the parish magazine; recycling bins for glass and cans have been installed at the village hall; and the village hall car park has been refurbished.