Pupils at a St Neots school had their say about the future of the town on Wednesday (March 12).

Year 10 geography and history students at Longsands Academy met Councillor Louie Ruck to discuss the Neighbourhood Plan – a document which sets out a strategy for future development, regeneration and conservation in St Neots.

While the youngsters said they enjoyed the parks and appreciated the historic buildings, they would like to see the return of the outdoor swimming pool, better bus links and more further education provision in the area.

Alicia Port, 14, of St James Road, Little Paxton, told The Hunts Post: “There isn’t really much variety of clothes shops.

“There are just lots of charity shops and not much else, but the parks and things are good.”

Jasmine Allan, 15, of Flawn Way, Eynesbury, added: “I think the fact that we have got the bowling area and the parks – and now the cinema – for people to go and spend time is good.

“I would say we need more parking. Because of the railway station and people parking in the town it’s hard to drive down the roads.”

Cllr Ruck said: “These consultations are organised to make sure that we are able to gain access to as many different people as possible.

“It was invaluable – before we even gave them copies of the Neighbourhood Plan they were coming up with concerns echoed in the original consultations.

“They were all very much in favour of the policies included in the plan. It’s been really beneficial.”

Once the public consultation ends on March 21, the Neighbourhood Plan will be submitted to Huntingdonshire District Council before an independent examination.

This will be followed by a public referendum with a requirement for more than 50 per cent of participants to vote in favour before the plan can be brought into force.

INFORMATION: For more, visit www.stneots-tc.gov.uk.