AFTER nine months of hard work, a group of Okehampton residents have finalised a design statement which aims to influence the town?s development. The Okehampton Town Design Management Group is made up of around 15 to 20 members from all walks of life, but who all share an interest in protecting the town?s built environment. The group was formed in March from people based in Okehampton and Okehampton Hamlets, who gave up their Friday evenings and spare time to compile the statement. The finalised design statement for Okehampton is now with West Devon Borough Council and Okehampton Town Council for consideration for adoption as supplementary planning guidance. A presentation and display of the report will be made at the Ockment Centre on Friday, December 3, at 7pm, with the public welcome to attend. Project leader Nils Westman said: ?The exercise has shown what can be achieved with a working together attitude and strongly motivated people.? Mr Westman said the report highlighted issues such as the need for play space for youngsters, and youth facilities for teenagers, as well as the need for a cultural centre such as the Wharf in Tavistock, particularly now that the cinema had been sold. He said Okehampton was growing at a tremendous rate, as the new housing was built, and the statement would be amended accordingly over the coming months and years. Mr Westman said: ?The statement is intended to maintain and improve the quality of the living and built environment and it is hoped when it is adopted that it will help support the townspeople?s push for improved facilities and for them to have a stronger voice in influencing development of the built environment.?