Galaxy Group Primary Role

1.Guardians of the Vision
The Galaxy Group (GG) is regarded as “Guardian” of the original philosophy and intention of the Vision, embodied in its strap line “The heart of the country the mind of a city” i.e.

• Those living in the surrounding hinterland see Yeovil as a destination of choice for their leisure, shopping and entertainment needs.
• Local young people wish and are able to stay in the area for their education and employment needs.
• The town centre has developed lively and vital retail, cultural and residential quarters and a diverse evening economy.
• The quality of the built environment and open spaces are second to none.
• Other towns are coming to learn from us.
• The Vision strap line has real meaning for the whole of the Yeovil area community with tangible examples on the ground.
• The Vision has set out a clear agenda for the future of the Yeovil area beyond 2011 (up to 2026) on the basis of a community led approach.
• Yeovil has a positive image and reputation across the region.

In fulfilling this role The GG may “Peer Review” emerging projects and test how closely any proposal meets the philosophy and intention of the Vision.
However, the day to day running / management of agreed projects will be the responsibility of the YV Projects Director and Project Management Board and will not form part of Galaxy Group meetings.

2. Future Growth of Yeovil - Refreshing the Vision 
It is recognised that the process of regeneration is dynamic and that the Vision will need to be refreshed as new projects / issues emerge. This is particularly relevant with regard to the conclusions of the emerging Spatial Strategy and how this impacts on the future growth of the Town.

The Galaxy Group will debate, provide creative thinking and collaborative working in helping to shape and refresh the ongoing Vision particular in the context of the emerging Spatial Strategy.

It will be important to link outputs / conclusions to the wider “South Somerset Together” Community Strategy and Local Plans.

3. Team Yeovil
An overall theme will be to establish a “Team” approach to the delivery of the Yeovil Vision and where practical to align the policies and working practices of supporting bodies to the common aim.
The GG will seek to instil the theme of partnership working and seek opportunities to align priorities, capital budgets and where appropriate attempt to match public / private sector investment.  

4. Themed Working Groups
From time to time the GG may establish a themed working group to address a specific topic area such as developing a positive communications and public relations strategy for YV and the Town of Yeovil.

5. Advocacy
Where appropriate the Galaxy Group may take on an “advocacy role” particular in relation to matters which in their opinion will lead to greater prosperity and quality of life for all.

1st December 2007