TURNING residents' dreams into reality is the aim of Worcestershire's Community Strategy, after residents outlined their visions for the next decade.

A clampdown on crime, better health provision, affordable housing and good educational services topped community "wish lists" in MORI polls across the county.

Reducing hospital waiting times, closing off troublesome alleyways and creating better training opportunities were just some of the goals set by the Worcestershire Partnership to help make the county a better place.

The partnership, made up of council representatives, the police, health, fire service and voluntary groups, launched its 2003-2013 strategy at a University College Worcester conference of more than 200 people yesterday.

Chairman Professor Michael Clarke said it was a massive remit, but the partnership had the network and framework in place to deliver people's wishes.

"It is a reflection of our time that big issues are no longer covered by any one agency. But judging by the tremendous turnout of representatives today, I think we have the first step in a new era of partnership in Worcestershire.

"We would like to think the strategy is a beginning of a story, but it is now for the county to pick up and respond to the ideas and to think how it is going to implement the strategy."

Polls were conducted in Worcester, Droitwich, Malvern, Bromsgrove, Wyre Forest and Redditch. In each area, a range of age groups from different social and ethnic backgrounds were quizzed about worries in their own particular communities and - what they would like to see improved.

In Worcestershire, people perceived access to the countryside was good, as was the quality of GP services and the quality of parks and open spaces.

The perception of nearest hospitals, schools, the availability of sports and leisure facilities and the quality of shops was average.

The majority of people believed road maintenance and facilities for young people and teenagers was poor.

Wish list

Wish: To have healthy communities and support vulnerable people.

Vision: Guarantee that everyone will be able to see a doctor within 48 hours by 2004 and a nurse, dentist or other health professional within 24 hours.

Wish: Worcestershire should be a safer place.

Vision: Increase the number of police officers and use neighbourhood wardens as a visible official presence on the streets. CCTV close of alleyways and improve street lighting.

Wish: To become a county where people can acquire skills, knowledge and self esteem to become active citizens.

Vision: Support further expansion of University College Worcester. Provide one-to-one support and guidance for young people via the ConneXions service.

Wish: Worcestershire should continue to be prosperous.

Vision: Promote Worcestershire on the national stage as a place to visit to encourage more visitors.

Wish: The county's environment should be protected for future generations.

Vision: Less litter in the streets, more recycling facilities, increase the number of rare species.

Wish: A vibrant place, which celebrates diversity with equal access to public services.

Vision: Public transport will be safe and accessible to all. Increased facilities and opportunities for young people.