Featured in this report:
A mixed mode approach was adopted for this survey, providing residents with the option to participate online or via a paper survey. In total 2,500 surveys were hand delivered to households across Whaley Bridge and Furness Vale by the Whaley Bridge Regeneration Team, and other volunteers, organised by Ruth George. Paper surveys could be returned to ballot boxes located across Whaley Bridge and Furnace Vale and a link published on the covering letter of the survey enabled people to respond online. This survey link was also shared by Ruth George on social media which further expanded the reach of the research to users of Whaley Bridge town centre in other surrounding villages and beyond.
At its close 774 people had completed the survey and the results were collated and analysed by DJS Research to create the final published report. The survey findings were also shared with residents at a public meeting held in Whaley Bridge on 28 October 2025.
With the exception of the data scripting, data processing and graphic design of this survey, all other DJS Research services were conducted on a voluntary basis by employees Ali Sims and Alex Noden who are two of the founding members of the Whaley Bridge Regeneration team.
The insights from this survey will provide direction to the Whaley Bridge Regeneration team, Councillor Ruth George and Whaley Bridge town council, as well as local traders, investors and landlords, to help shape the future of the Whaley Bridge area.
