DOZENS of residents voiced their views on how Romsey should look like in the future.

Residents flocked to Crosfield Hall on Saturday to take part in the first 'Walk and Talk' tour and help shape the masterplan for the area including the bus station and Crosfield Hall.

The event organised by Romsey Future in partnership with Nexus Planning and Perkins and Will architects was aimed at giving residents the opportunity to highlight aspects of the area which they feel need improvement as part of any future redevelopment, or those they feel are vital to maintain.

Among the ideas suggested on Saturday there are suggestions for more green spaces in the town centre and the possibility or rebuilding Crosfield Hall which was deemed "too old" and "not fit for purpose".

Ian Ross, 74, semi-retired, from Romsey, said: "I'd just like more green spaces. Romsey should make the most of the river. It would be a great idea to have green spaces along the river so people can go for a walk."

Braishfield resident Viv Robinson added: "It just needs to improve the facilities that it has and make them top level, emphasise the town and the abbey. Improve the access to what it offers."

Some residents also suggested that there should be more shops but added that the character and individuality of the town must be kept.

Cllr Nick Adams-King, deputy council leader at Test Valley Borough Council, said all the feedback received will help shape the masterplan which should be ready by next summer.

Talking about the consultation he added: "It has been great. The consultants that run the consultations said this is the best they have ever had in England. It's genuinely a blank piece of paper. In the new year we'll be presenting some options. I'm determined to make sure that people have their say."

Another Walk and Talk tour will be held on October 16 at 4pm. It will start at Crosfield Hall.