Young people share ideas to shape the future of Wrexham
So far, more than 3,600 suggestions have been gathered through public consultations led by the Wrexham City Board, which is chaired by Rachel Clacher CBE, founder of Moneypenny.
Ms Clacher said: "We've been inspired by the energy, creativity and hope that people have brought to the process.
"This work is just the beginning.
"As we develop our long-term plan, we are committed to deepening our listening, involving even more voices, and building a plan that truly reflects our community – while putting the needs of future generations at its core.
"As a board we want to make sure that everything we do is informed by the young people of Wrexham.
"The Just One Thing project gave us a loud and clear message that there are key areas that matter to our young people.
"They want the city centre to feel safer for everyone, they want to see improved transport links, and they want more to do in the city centre.
"Thanks to our consultations the board now has a clear direction of travel on how to spend the £20 million funding."
She added: "We want to create a long-term meaningful and sustainable legacy which has been shaped by young people in the city – a vision by the people for the people of the city.
"The board is representative of the city, and for them to hear the voices of our youngsters is very powerful.
"We are all really excited about how this is building around everything else amazing that is happening in Wrexham."
Round table discussion - pupils of Victoria County Primary School with Wrexham City Board Chair Rachel Clacher MBE, Headteacher Debbie Eccles and Natalie Edwards from the Civic Mission at Wrexham University (Image: Steve Rawlins)
The board's Just One Thing consultation asked residents to share ideas for improving the city.
More than 1,500 people took part, including people from more than 35 schools and community groups.
At Victoria CP School, Year 6 pupils discussed ideas around parking, tourism, shopping and youth activities.
Headteacher Debbie Eccles told the pupils: "Your voice matters."
She said: "This project is an authentic experience for the children to have their voices heard.
"They have some fantastic ideas and it is important that these form part of plans for Wrexham's future.
"We are thrilled to be involved and for our children to have the opportunity to influence the future of Wrexham.
"They have all been so excited and have a range of views not just on things like local attractions and shopping, but a lot are worried about issues such as homelessness and healthcare provision which has been really eye-opening.
"Their suggestions are heartfelt and it's clear that the city's children can see areas where it is struggling."
One pupil, Sophie, said she felt 'proud' to have the chance to have her voice heard.
The 11-year-old said: "I feel really privileged to be involved and have a say on our community.
"It has also been a great opportunity to meet people from different walks of life in Wrexham.
'I think we need more homeless shelters in the city centre to give those who are struggling a better chance of getting help and work.
"It makes me sad seeing people suffer, and more shelters could help stop people having to live on the streets. It could make a lot of people a lot happier.
'I love theatre and I have known since the age of three that I want to be an actress and there are some great opportunities for me here.
"But I think more sports halls and wellbeing centres could be beneficial for other youngsters.'
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The responses were analysed by Wrexham University and grouped into key themes.
Natalie Edwards from Wrexham University's Civic Mission said: "Initially, we asked children to put their ideas on postcards to send back to us.
"We had an amazing response with over 3,000 lines of ideas.
"The influence of our young people is so important; engagement with young people is truthful, heartfelt and completely authentic.
"Children are very empathetic and have real concern for others and want to help those who are struggling.
"I have been really impressed with their maturity.
"It is young people who can help give us the answers we need."
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