RESIDENTS from three Oxford estates have taken to the streets to learn how to improve life for the community.

People from Barton, Wood Farm and Northway have spent the past three months quizzing people on their estates over what they want to see changed, improved or added to their area.

After surveying about 500 residents and organising focus group meetings, the teams are putting plans together for youth dance groups, community panels in Northway, and even a mini-farm for residents in Barton.

Nineteen of those involved in the project are also on their way to gaining a GCSE equivalent in Identifying Needs in Communities, and Community Work in Action.

Hayley Nash, 28, of Sermon Close, canvassed people in Wood Farm. The mother-of-two said: “Both my children have special needs and there’s nothing for them locally.

“I’m tired of moaning about things and doing nothing.

“There was a feeling around Wood Farm that we’re the forgotten estate, as all the cash seems to go to Blackbird Leys and Rose Hill.”

The consultation idea was born out of the pioneering Barton Community Development Project, which helped bring about the redevelopment of Underhill Circus and fund community projects.

Rejoice Sithole, 50, of Derwent Avenue, Northway, said: “I emigrated here and want to give something back to a community that has done so much for me.”

Alan Foulkes, Barton’s community development co-ordinator, said: “This shows that, given the chance, people will get involved and enjoy it.

“There’s often inter-estate rivalry in Oxford, but this shows that people from three estates can well together.”

The research is now likely to form the basis of grant applications to the city council and charities.