Focus groups have begun sifting through the results of the Island-wide SheppeyProud survey.

More than 300 residents completed the online questionnaire as part of a bid to win a share of the Government’s £90 million to improve coastal communities.

Another 100 written questionnaires handed into the Sheerness Times Guardian offices in the High Street and other collection points across the Island have also been added.

A detailed application, or economic plan, for funding must be completed by the end of January.

Heather Thomas-Pugh, who is coordinating the bid under the Sheppey Matters banner, said: “We now know what Sheppey people think of the Island and what they would like to see changed.

“Members of the focus groups are going through the evidence to find solutions in the short, medium and long terms.”

The preliminary findings from the online survey make for interesting reading.

The data from the written survey is currently being collated, and will be added to the overall report in due course.

Ninety per cent of respondents demanded work on the A2500 Lower Road to avoid traffic congestion, and 94% said they wanted more schools and shops before any more homes were built.

Three-quarters (76%) complained about a poor range of shops. Seventy per cent wanted parking charges reduced, especially on Saturdays, and 66% asked for an improved bus timetable.

More than half (59%) wanted a market in the High Street and cleaner pavements.

A third (34%) were keen on more public toilets.

Three-quarters (77%) said there were not enough suitable jobs on the Island. Employers insisted they wanted prospective staff to be prepared to work, dress smartly and arrive on time. They said many lacked adequate communication skills and couldn’t operate a computer or do simple sums.

There was a plea for better technical skills to be taught with training for engineers and health and social care professionals to reverse serious staff shortages.

Three-quarters (76%) said the Island needed its own unique attraction to encourage visitors and tourists. A similar number said more should be made of the Island’s history and heritage.

Seventy-three per cent want improvements at Queenborough Harbour for visiting yachts.

Others highlighted the need for better launching ramps at Sheerness and Minster.

Other improvements wanted are: more seafront facilities at Beachfields (73%); better swimming pool (64%); improved tennis courts; petting zoo (47%); mini golf (39%) and a coordinated Island-wide events diary (29%).

Many respondents (67%) also want better use of Sheppey
Community Hospital with all of its facilities open seven days a week.