Leek Post & Times

Share your views – with a lamp post!

QR code project designed to drive improvemen­ts in town centre

- By Les Jackson leslie.jackson@reachplc.com

RESIDENTS in Leek are being invited to share their thoughts and opinions about the areas in which they live, work and play.

Familiar objects including lamp posts, benches and bins are ready to strike up friendly conversati­ons, via SMS, to hear what people have to say.

The “Hello Staffordsh­ire” project, which is being trialled in Leek, Stafford, Cannock and Rugeley, was launched on Monday, December 14.

The project is being delivered by Staffordsh­ire County Council in collaborat­ion with Hello Lamp Post.

To begin a conversati­on, people will need to spot the bright yellow signs around the town, where they will be prompted to either scan the QR code or text the dedicated number, using any mobile phone.

The objects will ask a variety of questions, encouragin­g people to share their views and comments. Taking part is free and standard text messaging rates apply.

A full map of where the objects can be found is available at http:// staffordsh­ire.hlp.city/

All conversati­ons are anonymous, and feedback gathered will be shared with the county council to help identify potential improvemen­ts for the local area.

Alan White, leader at Staffordsh­ire County Council, said: “This is an important project that will help us connect with local communitie­s and find out what people think about their area and how it could be improved.

“We hope the yellow signs will get people thinking in a different way, and encourage them to explore what’s around them.

“More importantl­y, we want people to share their thoughts and opinions about what living in Staffordsh­ire means to them.

“The campaign will take the form of interactiv­e questions, so please look out for the signs and join in the conversati­on.”

Questions include:

How would you describe this area in one word?

What makes Staffordsh­ire a great place to live?

Do you have a strong sense of belonging within your community?

Mr White said: “By taking part, you’ll not only help give us a better understand­ing of what matters most to people, but help us build stronger communitie­s at the same time.”

People can find out more about the project at staffordsh­ire.hlp.city

 ??  ?? Councillor Alan White by one of the signs.
Councillor Alan White by one of the signs.

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