MAP swot analysis S6

SWOT analysis

You need to consider what the information you have gathered tells you in the light of these questions: Write your answers here. Base them on the information you have gathered. Conclusion It's a Fact Strength Weakness Opportunity Threat Need more info Are there are sufficient cultural and heritage venues and facilities to meet the community's needs?

West Malling has already mentioned many heritage & cultural venues with a number of listed buildings – the railway station is listed. The Malling Society with its photographic exhibitions using prints taken by photographer Freda Barton ( a resident who lived in Police Station Road) in the early 20th century and events during Heritage Open Days. More recently the former West Malling Airfield prominent during World War 2 will be featured in the proposed Malling Heritage Centre in Douces Manor. The ever increasing demand for building land is a constant threat to the rural nature of the environs.

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How well do current events and activities reflect the area's culture, heritage and strong historical or cultural associations? Have any distinctive or famous links been ignored?

With funding from the KCC The Malling Society with help from the local residents produced a West Malling Town Walk brochure listing 22 of the Town’s historic buildings. Current initiatives include the Parish Council’s development of the Macey’s Meadow with regular work parties every two weeks. This 20 acre site will form today’s contribution to the Heritage of the future as wild life haven. The Old County Cricket ground is also owned by West Malling Parish Council. In 2005 the 300th anniversary of Cricket in Kent was celebrated by the Town Malling Club in conjunction with Borough Council. Links to WW Turners painting of the Cascade

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Are members of the community actively engaged in the area's culture and heritage? Many members of the Community with the support of the Parish Council are engaged in the area’s culture and heritage. P

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Are the local culture and heritage sufficiently promoted?

It is felt that the local Borough Council could do more to promote local culture & heritage. For example the press release on the last Heritage Open Days failed to mention West Malling at all although we had five events. The local Tourist Information Centre in West Malling is not good at all – leaflets are situated at three sites, with many publications out of date and not applicable to the area.

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