Hook a duck, map a future: how we spent Easter in Hay

Community engagement doesn't have to mean a formal public meeting in a draughty hall, or a feedback form that nobody quite gets round to filling in. Sometimes it looks like a hook-a-duck stall on a sunny April afternoon, with children clamouring for a turn and parents lingering longer than they planned.

On 6 April, the HADSCAL team set up at Hay Castle's annual Easter Egg Hunt with Landed Futures to talk to the community about our plans. Alongside the egg hunting and the festivities, we ran a fun activity to draw people into conversation: hook a duck, then help us map the future of the Forest Road site.

Families who stopped by were invited to design a site map and discuss what they'd most love to see there. The conversations that followed revealed widespread support for the site, with particular enthusiasm for the proposed swimming pool. Adults asked thoughtful questions about the business units, the growing space, and how the gym would operate.

We conducted market research on the day to better understand the demand and price points for the business units and fitness facilities. This is a crucial factor for the site - to find prices that are both affordable for residents and that will maintain the site costs in the years to come. Every response from the day has been recorded and will feed directly into the planning process.

In the summer, we're planning a dedicated community day on the site itself with a chance to walk the land, explore the proposals in detail, and take part in a proper visioning session where your ideas and priorities can help shape what the campus becomes. It will be open to everyone, relaxed in feel, and genuinely creative. Details will be announced here as soon as the date is confirmed.

In the meantime, thank you to everyone who stopped by at Easter, duck rod in hand! Your feedback has been invaluable.