Residents in Uttlesford want to see more investment in children’s physical activities, according to an independent study on leisure and recreation in the district.

The Active Lifestyle for All in Uttlesford document, which was produced through the Saffron Walden Organisation for Sport, looked at the district’s health vision and what improvements can be made.

Questionnaires were given to 100 people at random from Saffron Walden, Dunmow, Stansted and Thaxted, who were asked their views on leisure facilities and activites available in Uttlesford.

More than 90 per cent of residents surveyed said they wanted to see more investment in children and young adult’s physical activities and more than half interviewed said they were put off by membership costs of leisure services.

The 40-page document also said there was an overwhelming feeling that there is not enough information about physical activity in the area.

In response to the questionnaires, the booklet highlighted three key issues as priorities in engaging more people of all ages in physical activity.

The document says that open spaces, multi-use paths and play and recreation areas should be part of any initial housing design and sets out community needs for planners in dialogue with developers.

It also suggests the need to employ a community physical activity coordinator for Uttlesford, who would be responsible for engaging people regardless of age, gender, wealth or ability in sport and leisure.

Further communication through social media channels, leaflets and posters is also seen as a priority according to the document.

Click on the link to download the Active Lifestyle for All in Uttlesford document and let us know your views at editor@saffronwalden-reporter.co.uk.