http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions

UK consumers are achieving 22 per cent faster broadband speeds at home than they were 12 months ago, new Ofcom research reveals.

http://consumers.ofcom.org.uk/2012/02/jump-in-uk-broadband-speeds/?utm_source=DirectgovTwitter&utm_medium=Tweet&utm_campaign=bbspeedfeb

or the short link

http://t.co/Qdf8DWjy

Water regulator Ofwat publishes details of estimated rises in water & sewerage charges by region in Eng. & Wales

http://www.ofwat.gov.uk/mediacentre/pressnotices2008/prs_pn0112bills

This website provides you with helpful information about crime and policing in your area.

And from May, maps will show action taken after a crime has occurred.

www.police.uk

Neighbour disputes and nuisances

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/WhereYouLive/NoiseNuisanceAndLitter/index.htm

Tell us about any concerns you may have regarding local policing.

Georges Hill Shops. Widmer End.
Tuesday 21st February 2012
Between 1000 and 1130hrs

Alternatively please use the link below:

www.thamesvalley.police.uk/haveyoursay
 

See what's planned for June 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Features/DG_WP200687

If you have an emergency situation; crime in progress, car accident with injured parties etc please ring 999, otherwise, call 101

Seen a dog that's dangerously out of control in England? Use Directgov to report it to your local dog warden.

http://local.direct.gov.uk/LDGRedirect/index.jsp?LGSL=432&LGIL=8&ServiceName=Find%20out%20about%20the%20dog%20warden%20service

or the short link:

http://t.co/gFmjOLG4
 

Please follow the link below for the quarterly newsletter CSI-Wycombe which is produced by the Community Safety Partnership.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/CSI-Newsletter-Winter-2012.pdf

Van buyers will be able to receive 20% - up to £8000 - off the cost of a plug-in van, Transport Minister Norman Baker and Business Minister Mark Prisk announced today.

This is an extension of the Plug-In Car Grant which offers 25% - up to £5000 – to motorists buying a new plug-in car. Ministers have also re-confirmed there is funding secured for this grant until 2015.

http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-news-20120117

Check the radon map and see what you can do about it

http://www.ukradon.org/

LIVE internet broadcasts showing meetings at Buckinghamshire County Council have begun.

The first webcast featured The Budget Scrutiny Challenge Group on Monday.

Meetings are recorded and can be viewed afterwards as well.

To view the Meetings or the recordings please visit:
http://www.buckscc.public-i.tv/core/portal/home

At the time of writing a poll on the Bucks Free Press website showed that 67% of readers would watch the meetings.

http://t.co/tSIyhaXr

NHS PIP breast implants to be removed for free.

http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/01January/Pages/government-review-advises-on-french-pip-breast-implants.aspx

or the short link:

http://t.co/lfwriwZp

The Government has decided to proceed with the development and delivery of a new national high speed rail network to provide the capacity that Britain needs to compete and grow.

http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/statements/greening-20120110

http://www.dft.gov.uk/topics/high-speed-rail/

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/Timeoffandholidays/DG_073741

Please follow the link regarding the latest news for Hughenden's Neighbourhood Action Group.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-Jan-2012.pdf

The current scams involve telephone calls from people pretending to be from the OFT (Office of Fair Trading) offering a refund on bank charges and emails pretending to be from the HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) offering a tax rebate.

DO NOT GET CAUGHT

http://www.oft.gov.uk/consumer-advice/

Fahra Nawaz, aged 17, was last seen at her home address in Wingate Avenue at 5.30pm yesterday (2/1).

Fahra is Asian, 5ft 4ins, with a large build and long black hair. She was wearing traditional Asian-style clothing of blue trousers, a long purple top and black shoes.

Insp Glenn Jones said: "Fahra has learning difficulties and because of this she may be vulnerable to anyone who wanted to take advantage of her.

"I would urge anyone who has seen her, or who knows of her whereabouts, to come forward and speak to us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should contact Thames Valley Police via the 24-hour Enquiry Line on 101.

Please don't leave it to someone else.

If you’re generally healthy and aged between 17 and 65, do something amazing.... Give blood.

http://www.blood.co.uk/

Do you have a question or view on:
Care for older people?
Reducing crime?
Services for those who are vulnerable?
Improving roads and footpaths?
Support services for children?
If so, come along to the Council’s scrutiny committees and have your say directly to County Councillors at the Public Platform slot at the meetings.
We welcome questions or views on any service delivered by Buckinghamshire County Council or the NHS in Buckinghamshire.
Complete an online form to submit your question or views and find out more information on our website:
www.bucks.gov.uk/scrutiny
Alternatively, call us on 01296 383604 or email us at
scrutiny@buckscc.gov.uk
Follow us on twitter at scrutinybucks

http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/38289.aspx

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200712

http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2011/12/30/new-rules-will-make-it-easier-to-travel-with-pets/

Become a digital champion!

http://champions.go-on.co.uk/ways-to-be-a-digital-champion/inspire

Transport for Buckinghamshire Launch Service Information Centre Version Two.

It should be easier to get around the county in your car following the
launch of version two of Transport for Buckinghamshire's award winning
Service Information Centre.

Changes have been made to the site that give it a more user friendly feel,
as well as showing CCTV images of roads in the area and live car park data
for Aylesbury and Wycombe so that drivers can find available spaces.

Peter Hardy, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Planning and
Transport said, "These improvements create an enhanced experience for our
residents in Buckinghamshire. I am pleased that ongoing developments mean
that visitors to the site will benefit from all the new features that we
have added."

A single map now shows all works within Buckinghamshire and a map has also
been added showing disruption and congestion with live, real time
information. The new fresh look encourages users to share and discuss pages
using social media and via email and there are still more developments in
the pipeline.

To see the new site, visit www.buckscc.gov.uk/transport.

A forced marriage is a marriage in which one or both spouses do not (or, in the case of some vulnerable adults, cannot) consent to the marriage, but are coerced into it. The coercion can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure.

The Home Office are seeking views on whether making forcing someone to marry should be a criminal offence or whether current arrangements provide adequate protection. We are also interested in views on what more could be done to prevent forced marriage from happening. There are clear arguments both for and against making forced marriage a criminal offence. These arguments are presented in the consultation document.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/about-us/consultations/forced-marriage/

or the short link

http://t.co/DLguwnGj

A specialist environmental crime taskforce which will blitz illegal waste sites in England and Wales over the next two years has been set up by the Environment Agency, it was announced today.

http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/news/135590.aspx?month=12&year=2011

or the short link

http://t.co/W8sfze20

You should only call this number if you have questions about your tax credits.

The exact cost of calling this number can be checked by calling your telephone service provider.

If you have hearing or speech impairments, the new textphone number is 0345 300 3909.

You will still also be able to use the old numbers (with the 0845 code), for about the next 18 months.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200423

The consultation period has now finished regarding allowing sheds on our allotment gardens.

There was a 72% response from tenants and the results are: 62% for sheds and 38% against.  The Council will now consider these findings and a response will be taken in the new year.

Thank you to all allotment tenants who responded.

Please follow the link below for the minutes of  December's NAG meeting.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Minutes-Dec-2011.pdf

Suzy Lamplugh Trust was founded in 1986 following the disappearance
of the young estate agent. The aim of the Trust is to raise awareness of the importance of personal safety and to help people to avoid violence and aggression and live safer, more confident lives.

They have created a special christmas safety list at http://www.suzylamplugh.org/personal-safety/personal-safety-tips/safety-over-the-festive-season/

and their website is full of useful and practical advice on personal safety for people from all walks of life.

www.suzylamplugh.org

Staying warm in winter

Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health problems like pneumonia. Find out some simple things you can do to keep warm, stay healthy and make the best use of your heating at home.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/KeepingSafeAtHome/DG_10027755

or the short link:

http://t.co/4ogYn0hM

http://think.direct.gov.uk/video-drink-driving.html

you can choose to alert 4 people you are on your way home

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/press-release/22-nov11-am-i-safe-free-phone-app-allows-you-to-check-your-cab-is-licensed.aspx

Almost £1 billion will be spent over the next three years to provide unemployed young people with extra help as part of a new 'Youth Contract'.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200235

http://www.london2012.com/games/ceremonies/get-involved/casting-information.php

https://online.businesslink.gov.uk/hub/action/render?pageId=mynewbusiness&site=1000

or the short link

http://t.co/hYfd4LTS

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/CaringForSomeone/index.htm

or the short link

http://t.co/Cf10XAIX

A study commissioned for consumer advice site knowthenet.org.uk suggests that, on average, only 44% of people were able to correctly identify illegal activities online.

Knowthenet.org.uk has now launched a free online test - which lets consumers test their own understanding of how the law applies online and check out advice on how to stay out of trouble.

http://accidentaloutlaw.knowthenet.org.uk/

Only 8% of women aged 26 to 35 have up-to-date anti-virus software on their computers, putting them at higher risk of fraud and computer crimes this festive shopping season.

http://www.actionfraud.org.uk/women-face-higher-online-fraud-risk-this-christmas-nov11

or the short link

http://t.co/OIQGk3ru

There is a wealth of information available online on the Wycombe District Council's My Wycombe service.

You can enter your own (or another) address and see information and links to district, county councillors and MPs, next bin collection dates, council tax band and charge, nearest parks, play areas and other community facilities, health and sheltered housing, planning applications and history, and planning policies and constraints.

You can also subscribe to email alerts for new and determined planning applications in your chosen area.

Try the My Wycombe website

Have you seen any suspicious activity, anti-social behaviour or criminal activity whilst out and about in this area?

If you’re out walking your dog, jogging, or just enjoying the countryside you could support the work of the police by reporting anything suspicious that you feel we should be aware of.

We are only as good as the information we receive and you could help us keep Wycombe District safe for those who live, work and visit the area.

You are reminded not to approach anyone who you suspect of committing a crime, or put yourself in any danger in anyway.

Instead, if you witness anything, please note details such as descriptions, locations or vehicle details.

Wycombe District is a safe place to be and we want to ensure it stays this way but need you to help us to do this.

If you see any suspicious activity in the area, contact Thames Valley Police on 101 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
 

This document describes the main measures of the Localism Act under four headings:

new freedoms and flexibilities for local government

new rights and powers for communities and individuals

reform to make the planning system more democratic and more effective

reform to ensure that decisions about housing are taken locally

The document Decentralisation and the Localism Act: an essential guide also gives further background. It explains how the principles that underpin the Localism Act also inform other government policies.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/localismplainenglishupdate

You can read the Act and its explanatory notes in full, on the parliament website at:

http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2010-11/localism/documents.html
 

http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsPortalWebApp/downloadFile?contentID=HMCE_PROD1_031736

An ambitious new strategy to tackle the housing shortage, boost the economy, create jobs and give people the opportunity to get on the housing ladder was announced today (21 November 2011) by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/corporate/2033724

An era of Whitehall control has ended with a historic shift in power back to local people, as the Localism Bill becomes law.

The Localism Act will trigger the biggest transfer of power in a generation, releasing councils and communities from the grip of central government.

The flagship legislation, which late yesterday afternoon received Royal Assent, puts a raft of new rights and powers at the disposal of local people to take charge of their future, delivering on more than 30 coalition agreement commitments.

http://www.communities.gov.uk/news/newsroom/2030130

or the short link

http://t.co/reaH0ogr

The government has launched this consultation to ask for views on how we can protect victims of stalking more effectively. The consultation incorporates a number of issues, including current legislation, the effect of police information notices, search powers, the work of existing organisations and alternative measures to tackle stalking.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/about-us/consultations/stalking-consultation/

or the short link

http://t.co/FUBClSsz

Thames Valley Police has gone live today (14/11/2011) with 101, the new national single non-emergency number, which will replace the 0845 8 505 505 number.

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/general/14nov11-thames-valley-goes-live-with-101.aspx

or the short link

http://t.co/qJ4GZkBU

Certain transsexual people can now apply for equal treatment rights for social security purposes. This could mean getting the State Pension paid early, or having some National Insurance contributions refunded.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200047

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has now started sending out tax calculations (on form P800) to show taxpayers if they have paid too little PAYE tax for 2010-11. The calculation will show the total income and personal allowances that are due. HMRC sends notes with the calculation to explain what it all means.

If you get a calculation you should check it to make sure you agree with the information included.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200065

If your child is eligible for free school meals, it's worth registering them even if they're not going to have the school lunch. This is because schools receive a 'Pupil Premium' - an extra payment for each eligible child which they can spend on useful services. Registering might also get you extra help for things like music lessons or school trips.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_200057

or use the short link

http://t.co/t5nPCwGv

Find out what your rights are when buying a car, including when you can claim for a repair, replacement or refund

http://bit.ly/buy-a-car

Buying a car - your rights
 

Struggling with your mortgage payments?

Put together a simple action plan to help you keep your home.

There are several things you can do to make sure your home isn’t repossessed. It’s never too late to get advice, so don’t walk away or hand over your keys to your lender. Find out how to get help to keep your home if you are facing repossession.

What you can do to avoid repossession - a guide

Get Safe on Line has worked closely with the Rough Guide team to produce this downloadable useful guide to staying safe on line

Simply click on the link below for Your copy of “The Rough Guide to Staying Safe On Line”

Rough Guide (1,930KB, PDF)

Anyone who has served in the UK Armed Forces may be entitled to financial support. This also includes the widows, widowers and dependants of those who have served.

Find out what pensions or other payments may be available.

http://bit.ly/VeteranBenefits

The threat of scam apps is very real. Some users have been landed with bills of hundreds of pounds after inadvertently downloading a scam app.

http://bit.ly/scam-apps

If you are due to work, volunteer or compete at the Olympic or Paralympic Games, or are attending in another official capacity, it's likely you will need an accreditation pass to give you special access to London 2012 venues and sites. Find out what the process involves.

http://bit.ly/GamesPass

Google has started to index Ajax/JavaScript content, so comments made on sites that use services such as the Facebook Comment Box or Disqus will now be discoverable via Google search.

http://bit.ly/rQzhqp

Wycombe Area Youth Council (WAYC) is a fantastic opportunity for young people in the Wycombe district to express their views and be consulted on issues affecting them.

Membership is open to all young people within the district aged 14 to 19 years. If there anything that you want to ask or say about services for young people, then contact the youth council on 01494 447 250 or email wayc@wycombe.gov.uk

http://bit.ly/rB7xeW

In heavy snow, our home carers can’t always reach vulnerable
people. Can you help?

• Can you help clear snow from a driveway or path when our home carers can’t reach someone?

• Or do you have a 4x4 vehicle and can help drive our home carers where they are needed?

If you can help, please let us know.

Please tell us your name, town/village and contact details and if you can help with simple snow clearance or whether you have a 4x4.

Email locality-services@buckscc.gov.uk
or telephone 01296 383409

Worried about clearing snow?
Don’t be.
The Government has produced advice on how to clear snow safely. The most important thing to remember is you won’t be in trouble for clearing snow sensibly (eg use salt and sand to melt snow, rather than hot water which will turn to ice).

Go to: www.direct.gov.uk and learn about the ‘snow code’

Would you know if your child was in a gang?

Learn to spot the signs and find out how to keep them safe

http://bit.ly/ParentsAndGangs

Find out what you're allowed to do to protect yourself.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and Chief Constables have produced a summary of what people can do when faced with an intruder and the support offered by the law when householders defend themselves. The following is taken from that statement.

http://bit.ly/home-defence

The right to peaceful protest is a vital part of democracy, and it has a long, distinguished history in the UK. Here’s some basic information about protests, as well as a few other ways in which you can make your voice heard.

http://bit.ly/protest-rights

Local residents and Wycombe Sports Centre users are invited to an exhibition between Monday 31 October and Friday 18 November, to find out more about Wycombe District Council's latest proposal to redevelop the Wycombe Sports Centre site and build a new leisure centre.

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/press-release/26oct11-local-residents-invited-to-find-out-more-about-redevelopment-proposals-in-high-wycombe.aspx

or the short link

http://bit.ly/ulAqPX

With the clocks going back on 30 October everyone gets an extra hour. How you spend it is up to you, but that one hour could make a real difference to someone’s life. Why not spend it helping someone get online?

http://bit.ly/Give-an-hour

Is Britain beset by binge boozers? Will wine help you lose weight? Could six cans of lager help you live longer? The media pose questions like these on an almost daily basis, often using and abusing the findings of medical research to back up their headlines.

In this special report, Behind the Headlines analyses the media's relationship with research on alcohol, the science behind it, and what all this means for us when we consider raising a glass.

What's your poison: A sober analysis of alcohol and health in the media (PDF, 3Mb) is a must-read for anyone who wants the facts on whether the headlines are true.

Firework safety and the law

Fireworks often play a big part in celebrations – like Bonfire Night, Diwali and Chinese New Year. However, fireworks are explosives and burn at high temperatures, so they need careful handling and storage. Find out about firework safety and the law about their use.

http://bit.ly/firework_safety

Transport for Buckinghamshire are holding workshops across the county this
November to help prepare motorists for the challenge of winter driving.

Last year over 200 people attended either an evening workshop or a winter
driving event hosted by their employer.

Each workshop starts with a winter driving presentation on how to drive
safely in challenging conditions. The garage technicians will then take
attendees through the most common faults and basic vehicle maintenance
checks.

Peter Hardy, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Planning and
Transport, said "We have experienced some severe weather over the last
couple of winters so these workshops could be beneficial to those who are
not experienced at driving in these conditions."

Whether you're an experienced motorist, older driver or have just passed
your driving test, a winter driving workshop will help you understand how to
conduct basic vehicle checks to reduce the possibility of the vehicle
breaking down.

"I spoke to employees who went to the Winter Driving Workshop and all have
said how valuable it was. The comments included that much of it was down to
common sense and they would think more about their driving and vehicle
safety." Peter Gannaway, Health and Safety Manager Paradigm Housing Group.

"I went on the course with a limited knowledge of the effects the winter can
have on my vehicle, but two hours later I was up to speed. It's not rocket
science, but what you do learn is common sense that could keep your car on
the road in the cold and should make you a safer driver. I've still got my
sleeping bag in the boot, I've never used it, but it's great to know it's
there!!" Andy Holmes, Buckinghamshire County Council.

The evening workshops start at 7 pm and are held on the following dates:

STS Tyres Aylesbury on 8th November 2011

STS Tyres High Wycombe on 15th November 2011

Buckingham Ford on 17th November 2011

STS Tyres Chesham on 22nd November 2011 

To find out more about winter driving and to book a place on a workshop,
visit our web site
http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/transport/winter_driving_workshops.page

Alternatively if you would like to host a workplace workshop please
telephone 01296 382450 or email roadsafety@buckscc.gov.uk

There is a new easy way for you to tell Ofsted how you think your child's school is performing.

Ofsted has launched Parent View, a 12-question online survey that lets you give your views on your child's school at any time.

http://bit.ly/ParentView

Share this with friends and loved ones to remind them.

Time to Test

http://bit.ly/firekillsclock

http://www.london2012.com/get-involved/jobs/

Read all the latest information regarding Hughenden's Neighbourhood Action Group.

http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/pub-pg-nh-upds-N182?id=194621

http://talesoftheroad.direct.gov.uk/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/TalesOfTheRoad

Changes to tenancy and deposit laws

Tenancies with rents between £25,000 and £100,000 per year can now be assured and assured shorthold tenancies

Find out about changes to the annual rental threshold

Types of tenancies - private renting

Store the word "ICE" in your mobile phone address book, and against it enter the number of the person you would want to be contacted "In Case of Emergency".

In an emergency situation, the police, ambulance and hospital staff will then be able to quickly find out who your next of kin are and be able to contact them. It's as simple as that, and for more than one contact name you can use ICE1, ICE2, ICE3 etc.

all NHS hospitals have a complaints process.

http://www.nhs.uk/choiceintheNHS/Rightsandpledges/complaints/Pages/NHScomplaints.aspx

Care homes are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is responsible for monitoring the standards of most private, voluntary and local council care services. Learn more about standards of care and who to contact to make a complaint if you're not happy.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/CaringForSomeone/CareHomes/DG_10031520

DELECTA DNA is a forensic crime reduction system that links criminals to crime scenes and provides an unbreakable chain of evidence in a court of law.

Furthermore, it enables stolen goods to be returned to their rightful owners.

Each batch of Selecta DNA contains a non-toxic liquid with a unique DNA code. This solution can only be seen under UV light - the police have UV arc-lamps in each of their local Custody Suites.

By displaying warning labels, window stickers, and other signage, it deters criminals, as they know the DNA will link them to the crimes they commit.

As well as the DNA identifier, each bottle of the solution contains about 1,000 microdots and each microdot shows the manufacturer's secure database phone number and the unique code of the owner. This gives the police the ability to positively ID a recovered item on the spot.

These kits are ideal for such items as:
- Computers, IT equipment, and other electrical equipment.
- Jewellery
- Antiques and paintings
- Leisure equipment such as golf clubs, bicycles, motorcycles etc.
- Tools

The kits that are able to mark about 50 items can be obtained from WDNHWA at a cost of £23.00 and this includes the database registration cost with the manufacturer. Also included are warning signs and tamper-proof warning labels.

Please confirm your interest in the first place with Gemma Brooks at Wycombe District Council's Community Safety Department as follows:

- ph 01494.421117
- email : Gemma.Brooks@wycombe.gov.uk

Alternatively, talk dir ectly to WDNHWA at the Crime Prevention Event on Saturday, 22nd October, from 9.00AM until 2.00PM in The Chilterns Shopping Centre, High Wycombe. The kits will be available to purchase there.

We want to hear from you on your priorities for council spending over the coming year. The consultation is live until 13 November 2011.

Your money - your choice

www.buckscc.gov.uk/budget

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is reminding consumers to follow good hygiene practices when storing and preparing vegetables, following two recent E.coli outbreaks.

http://www.food.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2011/sep/washveg

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nZX7th

Responsibility for sewers is changing on 1 October 2011.

Find out the difference between drains and sewers, and who is responsible for repairing and maintaining them.

Also, learn how to prevent a blocked drain and what to do if a blockage happens.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/WhereYouLive/Streetcleaninglitterandillegaldumping/DG_10026174

or the short link

http://bit.ly/sewer-pipes

A BUCKS hypnotherapist has hit out at internet giant Google after she was left 'helpless' when her email account was hijacked.

http://bit.ly/qSwyqv

Free services like gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo etc. are not secure use them at your own risk!

Facebook is making sharing even easier by automatically sharing what you’re doing on Facebook-connected apps. Instead of having to "Like” something to share it, you’ll just need to click “Add to Timeline” on any website or app, and that app will have permission to share your activity with your Facebook friends.

What activity, you ask?

It could be the news articles you read online, the videos you watch, the photos you view, the music you listen to, or any other action within the site or app. Facebook calls this auto-sharing "Gestures".

http://mashable.com/2011/09/28/new-facebook-feature/

I'm sure many people all over the world are begining to question whether Facebook is worth all the hassle?

Child maintenance is financial support towards a child's everyday living costs.

Separated parents can arrange child maintenance between themselves by making a family-based arrangement.

They can also ask the CSA or courts to get involved.

Find out about child maintenance and how to make an arrangement that works for you.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/ChildMaintenance/Arrangingchildmaintenance/DG_199174

Adoption is where a child legally becomes a member of a new family and has one or two new parents.

If you are at least 21 years old and can provide a permanent, stable and caring home, your application to adopt will be welcomed.

There is no upper age limit.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Adoptionfosteringandchildrenincare/AdoptionAndFostering/DG_4019657

or the short link

http://bit.ly/ukadoption

It’s pretty amazing how Facebook can suggest friends for you based on the most ephemeral of connections. Or how about when you log in and see ads for services you were just searching for on Google? Or what about when Facebook synced all of your cell phone contacts to the site without you realizing you’d allowed it? What about the new API that allows apps to post items on your timeline without you even doing anything. Not to mention the frequent design changes that put your privacy settings under different menus and submenus.

Read the article/solution and comment at www.mh-p.info

Based on information supplied by www.securitymanagement.com

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is a minimum amount per hour that most workers in the UK are entitled to be paid.

Find out what the current rates are and where to get help if you think you are being paid below the minimum wage rate.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/TheNationalMinimumWage/DG_10027201

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nmw-rates

When you buy something the law gives you certain rights that protect you if it’s faulty. You may also have extra rights depending on where you buy the item and how you pay for it. Find out what your rights are and who can help if things go wrong.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Consumerrights/index.htm

Tax-free children's savings accounts, known as 'Junior ISAs', will be available from 1 November 2011.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_192028

To celebrate Walk4Life Day a national database of walks has been published:

http://www.walk4life.info/

The independent Boundary Commission for England (BCE) today launches a 12-week consultation on its initial proposals for new Parliamentary constituency boundaries in England.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199450

or the short link

http://bit.ly/constituencies

Trustees are the people in charge of a charity. They play a vital role, volunteering their time and working together to make important decisions about the charity's work.

Trustees' Week is an annual event to showcase the great work that trustees do and highlight opportunities for people from all walks of life to get involved and make a difference.

Trustees’ Week 2011 is 31 October – 6 November and this website will be regularly updated with news and information in the run up to the week.

http://www.trusteesweek.org.uk/

The government has announced that it will ban the payment of referral fees in personal injury cases. The current arrangements have led to high costs, encouraged a compensation culture and led to the growth of an industry which pursues claimants for profit.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199404?

Please click on the link below for Hughenden's Neighbourhood Action Grop (NAG) minutes from the September Meeting.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Minutes-Sept-2011.pdf

The aim of Get Safe Online is to provide computer users and small businesses with free, independent, user-friendly advice that will allow them to use the internet confidently, safely and securely.

http://www.getsafeonline.org/

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/Planning/index.htm

or the short link

http://bit.ly/planning-guide

Charity 20/20 cricket match in aid of Wycombe Hospital at High Wycombe Cricket Club this Sunday, 11 September.

Gates open for a BBQ at Noon and the match starts at 1.00pm.

Former Pakistan test cricketer Shakil Ahmed, will be playing along with former county players and rising young stars.

Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children and include a prize draw ticket with the chance to win a children's coaching session with a former England test player.

Tickets are available on line at www.scannappeal.org.uk or by telephone at 01491 734 161.

All proceeds will go to Scannappeal’s HeartScan Appeal for Wycombe Hospital. This Appeal is for £125,000 for a state of the art 3D heart scanner to diagnose and treat patients with heart complications and to monitor the heart function of breast cancer patients, so helping many local patients including those in your area.
 

A leaflet has been produced for winter 2011/12 explaining how you can protect yourself against flu this coming winter and why it’s very important that people who are at risk have their free seasonal flu vaccination every year

http://www.dh.gov.uk/health/2011/09/seasonal-flu-vaccinations/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/oLhF0f

Postgraduate study offers a way of retraining as a teacher or social worker, or starting a career in healthcare. The application process is often different from that used for other postgraduate courses – and there may be alternative sources of financial help on offer.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/ChoicesAfterYouGraduate/DG_10012475

or the short link

http://bit.ly/teachtraining

Initial Teacher Training (ITT) undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply for the same student loans, grants and bursaries as other undergraduate students. Find out what full-time or part-time courses you may get finance for and what finance is available.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/Typesoffinance/DG_171531

or the short link

http://bit.ly/teachingfinance

Agency workers will be entitled to new employment rights from 1 October 2011 when new regulations come into force. When on an assignment you will get some of these rights from day one and some after 12 weeks in the same job.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_199272

Relationship abuse can happen to anyone. It involves more than physical violence, it can be when someone puts you down, threatens you or forces you to do something you don't want to. Find out more about how to spot the signs, have your say on the issue and seek help here.

http://thisisabuse.direct.gov.uk/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/thisisabuse

Find out why, and read about the #energyefficient alternatives

One of the ways you can save energy in your home is to use energy saving light bulbs. These can last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs and can save you money on your electricity bills. Find out how these bulbs work and how to recycle them.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentandgreenerliving/Energyandwatersaving/Energyandwaterefficiencyinyourhome/DG_179919

or the short link

http://bit.ly/light_bulbs

Businesses up and down the country are being invited to contribute ideas on how the Government can cut red tape and regulatory burdens without affecting its responsibilities to protect the environment.

http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2011/09/01/red-tape-spotlight/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/rd9jGI

The warning, which the MHRA says is "precautionary" comes after reports that the anti-psychotic drug Seroquel XL has been found within some Nurofen Plus packets. Three defective packs have been found in pharmacies in London, but the affected batches may have been distributed across the UK.

The blister packs of the two different drugs look different, and should be easily spotted. The Seroquel XL 50mg tablets are large and capsule shaped and can be identified by their gold and black packaging; Nurofen Plus tablets are smaller and have silver and black packaging.

http://www.nhs.uk/news/2011/08August/Pages/nurofen-plus-mhra-warning.aspx

Flooding can cause widespread damage to your home and belongings. Making plans in advance can reduce the chances of your home being flooded and also save your life. Find out how you can prepare for flooding and protect your home from flood damage.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/WhereYouLive/FloodingInYourArea/DG_10014599

or the short link

http://bit.ly/floodwarning

Cllr Hugh McCarthy, Wycombe District Council's Cabinet Member for Planning and Sustainability, commented: "Between 2 September and 14 October, we are inviting you to have your say on the bold and exciting plans that we have made for the future of the Wycombe district, which aim to improve local facilities and help to deliver new jobs and prosperity to the area by regenerating key sites and setting in place a strong framework for future development. We want the Wycombe district to continue to be somewhere people are proud to live, work, visit and shop in. So please, take the opportunity to review our plans and tell us what you think - there are plenty of ways to have your say and to get involved."

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/press-release/25aug11-have-your-say-on-shaping-the-future-of-the-wycombe-district.aspx

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nTyUnU

A door step promotion of the Councils Home Insulation Grant will be taking place across the Wycombe District area commencing on Thursday 25th August, in the Totteridge area, but will be expanding across the district over following weeks.

The promotion will be conducted on behalf of Wycombe District Council by one of the approved installers from a company called Baring, offering Cavity Wall and Loft insulation, as part of the Wycombe 500 Houses challenge.

Each of their representatives will be in possession of a laminated copy of a letter of authority issued by the council, together with an ID badge giving their name and displaying the Wycombe District Council Logo. If you are in any doubt as to the identity of the caller then Wycombe District Council's ! Environmental Co-ordinator, Mrs Lesley Stoner, can be contacted on 01494 421744.

You have a right under the Data Protection Act to see information about your results. Having access to information - such as a breakdown of their overall mark and examiners’ comments – may not lead to your grades being altered but it could help you make decisions that impact on your future, such as deciding to re-sit an exam or pursue a particular subject at college or university.

http://www.ico.gov.uk/news/latest_news/2011/students_can_request_examiners_comments_under_data_protection_laws_18082011.aspx

or the short link

http://bit.ly/nsObg1

Cooling your home without air conditioning and checking your risk of flooding are just two ways to get ready.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentandgreenerliving/Thewiderenvironment/Climatechange/DG_179147

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/index.htm

or the short link

http://bit.ly/qSqkdM

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/RailTravel/index.htm

or the short link

http://bit.ly/UKrail

e-petitions is the best way for individuals to make themselves heard.

It only takes 100,000 signatures to get a petition debated in parliament and if your topic is not listed you can start your own petition.

One petition already has over 150,000 signatures.

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/

With the recent announcements from the main energy providers of large increases in the price of energy, the cost of keep warm is rising. It is becoming harder for residents to keep their homes heated to the recommended temperatures of 21˚C (70˚F) in the living room and 18˚C (65˚F) in other occupied rooms. To help combat this, a free phone helpline has been set up to advise residents in Buckinghamshire how to cut their energy bills.

The service is offered by the United Sustainable Energy Agency in partnership with Buckinghamshire County Council, the four Buckinghamshire District Councils and Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust.

If you are finding your energy bills unmanageable, you are not alone. Currently over 5 million people in the UK cannot afford to pay for the heat they need. Any resident in Buckinghamshire who is struggling with their energy bills can call 0800 107 00 44 for free, impartial advice on:

• Cavity wall and loft insulation including the grants available
• Grants and loans to help with heating system replacements
• Government and energy company payments
• How to switch energy suppliers to get the best deal
• Advice on fuel debt
• How to be more energy efficient in the home

Some of these improvements can take a few months to install; don’t wait until it gets cold to phone.

The helpline is available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
 

We have been notified of a road closure, between 30th August 2011 and 16th September 2011

and diversionary route for some proposed slurry surfacing works by Transport for Buckinghamshire.

(U593) Bryant’s Bottom Road - Junction with Warrendene Road, junction with Monkton Wood.

Diversionary route:- Warrendene Road, Valley Road, Coombe Lane, Main Road, New Road, Main Road, Pink Road, Monkton Wood and vice versa.

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Transport for Buckinghamshire on 01494 475311.

Following small outbreaks of disorder in parts of the force area, Thames Valley Police has set up the following Twitter feeds to keep communities updated:

www.twitter.com/TVP_Slough

www.twitter.com/TVP_Reading

www.twitter.com/TVP_Oxford

www.twitter.com/TVP_MK

www.twitter.com/TVP_Aylesbury

www.twitter.com/TVP_Wycombe

You can also follow us on the main Thames Valley Police Twitter site:

www.twitter.com/thamesvp

If you have information about groups gathering or behaving suspiciously, please contact Thames Valley Police on 0845 8 505 505.

Alternatively, if you do not want to speak to police, or leave your name, please contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Thousands more police officers will be deployed on the streets of London tonight to help contain rioting that has affected parts of the city. Parents are advised to ensure their children stay off the streets as police move to tackle any signs of disturbance.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198958

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/uk_riots

A 'demo' map showing 180,000 assets owned by public sector bodies has been published.

These include restaurants, pubs, an airport and even Swindon Town’s football stadium!

It is hoped that by publishing a national asset map billions of pounds of potential savings will be identified.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198888

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/asset_map

Congratulations to Mr Wilson from Walters Ash for winning the Overall Allotment Trophy.  Please see the link below for details of all the individual winners.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/allotmentsannualcompetition.htm

We have received a number of calls from concerned residents across the District who have reported suspicious phone calls from people claiming to be completing a crime survey and acting on behalf of Thames Valley Police.

Thames Valley Police have no knowledge of this survey and would advise anyone who receives such a phone call to advise them you are not interested and to not give them any personal information.

Please do let us know if you receive a call like this, including what was said, time and date of call, any phone number obtained, together with any other information you may obtain.

If you have any information in relation to this message, please contact Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505

To find out more about Thames Valley Police in your area - please go to our website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk.

Persistent 'neighbours from hell' will be evicted from their homes more quickly, under new plans to tackle anti-social behaviour.

While eviction will always be the last resort, the rights of victims to a peaceful life will be prioritised over the rights of offenders.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198838

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/neighboursfromhell

You are more than twice as likely to die in a fire at home if you haven't got a working smoke alarm.

A smoke alarm is the easiest way to alert you to the danger of fire, giving you time to escape.

They are cheap, easy to get hold of and easy to fit.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/FireSafety/DG_071751

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/edFzws

Enhanced rider scheme

Get more out of your riding and motorcycle by taking the enhanced rider scheme. You'll get your own trainer to help you make your riding more enjoyable. You can also get insurance discounts with most motorcycle insurance brokers. Find out how to find a trainer and get started.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/LearnerAndNewDrivers/RidingMotorcyclesAndMopeds/DG_4022666

http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/media-centre/news-releases/2011/campaign-to-hunt-some-of-the-uks-most-wanted-fraudsters-launched-by-crimestoppers-45132985

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/Companyandpersonalpensions/index.htm

1000 each year will die waiting as there are not enough organs available.

Register NOW!

http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/Features/DH_128851

Come an meet High Wycombe's Superintendent and give your views on police matters within your community.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/Have-Your-Say.pdf

Please click on the following link for August's Newsletter

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-August-2011.pdf

Telephone scammers claiming to represent the OFT

We are aware of consumers being contacted by people claiming to represent the OFT. Consumers are told that the OFT can reclaim bank or other charges for them, and that this service requires an upfront fee to be paid by money transfer. Some consumers have been asked to pay between £100 and £200.

The OFT is warning people not to pay money to bogus telephone callers claiming to be from the OFT. These callers have no connection with the OFT. The OFT do not ask people for money over the telephone.

If you receive a telephone call from the OFT asking for money, this is a scam and you should not pay.

For further advice contact Consumer Direct using the Directgov online form

http://www.oft.gov.uk/consumer-advice/

www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/news/hs2_opposition.page

From 1 August 2011, householders could get government funding to help install renewable heating systems such as biomass boilers and solar thermal panels. Money will be available for up to 25,000 installations over the next year, with grants being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198244

Home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders, according to new figures from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). Complaints about home maintenance peak during the summer, so find out what to do if an uninvited trader calls at your door this summer.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198600

Millions of homes and businesses in rural parts of the UK could receive better value broadband services by the end of this year. This follows Ofcom’s decision to reduce significantly the prices that BT Wholesale can charge internet service providers (ISPs) in primarily rural, less densely populated areas.

http://media.ofcom.org.uk/2011/07/20/better-value-rural-broadband/

The First

"Can I speak to the BT Account Holder" is generally how the first starts and although they are a competitor of BT they keep saying "BT" to instill in your mind that they are from BT.  They talk about saving you money when infact they're trying to move you to their service.

The way to test to tell if they are from BT is to ask them to tell you your account number (it's at the top of your phone bill) - they can't because they don't know it. Terminate the call.

The Second

This is more serious.

Again they claim to be a representative of BT.  He will tell you that he is about to disconnect you because of an unpaid bill and will demand a sum of money, probably about £30 or you will have to pay £118 to be re-connected.

He's not after your cash - he wants your credit card details.

If he thinks you're suspicious he will so offer to demonstrate that he was from BT by disconnecting your phone.  He will tell you to hang up and phoning someone - he would dis-connect my phone to prevent this call.

Your phone will be dead - no dialling tone, no engaged tone, nothing.

You hang up and then he calls you again.

The cutting off of the line is very simple, he stays on the line with the mute button on and you can't dial out - but he can hear you trying (This is because the person who initiates a call is the one to terminate it). When you stop trying he cuts off and immediately calls back.

Don't get caught by this scam!

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has opened an investigation into websites that charge people for government services that are available directly from government, either at no cost or for a lower fee.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198585

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/do-it-online

Suitable for anyone with a business idea however early stage, the “Is it for me?” workshop covers everything you need to know about working for yourself and whether starting a business or going into self-employment is right for you. “Is it for me?” workshops are being held at the Holiday Inn, High Wycombe on the following dates:

27th July

19th August

16th September

7th October 

If, following this workshop, you decide to commit to starting your business and have already started your research, you will qualify for a second tier of workshops focused on getting the basics of your business right and developing your business plan.

Don’t delay – these workshops won’t be around for long. To book, call Business Link on 0845 600 9006 today. Please note that prior booking is essential for all Business Link events. Entry will not be permitted without an e-ticket.

NAG Minutes July 2011

Information collected by the British Trust for Ornithology shows that the number of swifts breeding in Britain has declined considerably - by 44% in the South East between 1995 and 2008. Much of this decline is caused by the loss of nesting sites, due to building repairs or even simple re-pointing of brickwork, which means that swifts can no longer access a traditional site.

Your help in completing the questionnaire will be appreciated.

Swift Nesting Site Questionnaire 2011

.

http://taxcreditsvideos.direct.gov.uk/index.html

or use the short link.

http://bit.ly/isNS61

http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/sites/highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/files/hsr-consultation-response-form.pdf

or call 0300 321 1010 for a consultation pack

For further information please vist :

http://thebigtreeplant.direct.gov.uk/funding.html

or the short link:

bit.ly/g1LTIY

Residents are asked to keep a close eye on their local playground following an attack on the Winchmore Hill play area.  The equipment, which was installed 13 months ago,  will now have to be replaced at a cost of £25,000, after it was wrecked by offenders trying to steal the metalwork.

The value of scrap metal and cabling is at a record high so please be vigilent.

A reminder that the consultation period for making comments on the government’s proposals “High Speed Rail: Investing in Britain's Future” will be coming to an end on 29 July.

The route of the High Speed Rail link (HS2) would cut through the northern part of the district north of Nash Lee and south of Wendover and Stoke Mandeville. It would also run through the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

On 13 December 2010 the District Council resolved that:

“The Council supports the position of Steven Baker MP, who opposes the Government’s current proposals for High Speed Rail 2 as they are

(i)     economically unsound

(ii)   environmentally damaging

(iii) do not support the national interests.

Further information, including arguments against HS2, can be found at http://www.51m.co.uk/. The District Council will be considering its formal response at the 18 July Cabinet meeting before making comments known to the Department for Transport. 

All those with an interest are encouraged to respond and can do so online via http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/

From this date the UK's pet movement rules will be harmonised with the rest of the European Union (EU), making it cheaper and easier for owners to travel abroad with their pets.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198187

or the short link

http://bit.ly/pet-rules

Chairman's Annual Report 2011

July 2011 - Newsletter

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-July-2011.pdf

The proposals to extend the Air Travel Operators' Licence (ATOL) scheme would mean that up to 6 million extra holidays a year could be covered by the consumer protection scheme.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_198011

or the short link:

http://bit.ly/atol-changes

The draft Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) below are subject to public consultation from Friday 24 June 2011 to Friday 19 August 2011.

The draft SPDs are:

• Draft Developer Contributions SPD Update and associated Developers Guide
• Draft Housing Intensification SPD Update
• Draft Community Facilities SPD

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/council-services/planning-and-buildings/planning-consultations.aspx

First-time buyers struggling to build up a large enough deposit to get on the property ladder are being urged to register their interest in the FirstBuy scheme.

Under the new scheme, the government and housebuilders will lend you the money for a deposit, with loans repaid when you sell the property.

For more information and to register for the FirstBuy scheme visit:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_197938

or the short link

http://bit.ly/FirstBuy

The exceptions are:

• if you have made a SORN for the vehicle
• if your vehicle has been kept off-road since before SORN came into force on 31 January 1998 – unless it was brought back into use
• if your vehicle is recorded as stolen, passed or sold to the motor trade or between registered keepers
• if your vehicle is recorded scrapped or permanently exported by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing (DVLA)
  
   

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/Motorinsurance/DG_186696?CID=Continuous_Insurance&PLA=DM&CRE=Furl

or the short link

http://bit.ly/m3xt85

Subject: ADVANCE NOTICE OF ROAD CLOSURE C86 New Road, Walters Ash :

Buckinghamshire County Council News Release

Buckinghamshire County Council PR 2221 17/06/2011 [For Immediate

Release]

ADVANCE NOTICE OF ROAD CLOSURE C86 New Road, Walters Ash

Transport for Buckinghamshire will be undertaking highway maintenance works along the C86 New Road, Walters Ash. This work is being undertaken to prolong the life of the road and to improve the skid resistance for road safety purposes.

Initial work will involve planing and patching sections of the road to provide a sound surface. This work is programmed to start on Thursday 23rd June 2011 and, weather permitting, is expected to be completed the same day.

As New Road is particularly narrow and considering the health and safety implications the only way that these works can be undertaken will be to close the road from the junction with Smalldean Lane to the junction of Slad Lane. This work will take place during the day between the hours of 09:30 and 15:30 although access will be maintained to properties at all times.

Every effort will be made to carry out the work with minimum disturbance,

but due to the nature of the work some disruption may occur.

Subsequent work will involve applying a hot bitumen coating and then covering it with stone chippings using a treatment referred to as surface dressing. The nature of the treatment means there will be loose chippings on the road surface until it beds down. The workforce will return to the site when the road surface beds down to sweep away any excess chippings.

Additional notices will be sent to inform any huoseholds that may be

affected, when these works will be undertaken.

Further information about this work can be found under the Transport and Roads section of Transport for Buckinghamshire's Service Information Centre at

http://www.transportforbucks.net/Schemes-and-projects/Our-schemes-and-projec

ts/Surface-dressing.aspx.

As a juror you can't discuss the case on Twitter or Facebook.

Find out about jury service and your responsibilities

http://bit.ly/juror_uk

 

Fines will be introduced for people who don’t take care that information on their benefit claim is correct or don't tell the Department for Work and Pensions quickly about a change in their circumstances. These will be civil penalties, not criminal convictions.

http://bit.ly/claim_fine
 

The government has revealed plans for a zerowaste economy which includes the scrapping of bin fines and tackling illegal fly-tippers

http://bit.ly/0-waste

Please find below, a link to the ‘Your Neighbourhood’ page of the Thames Valley Police website, where you will find the latest updates for your area.

http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/

This link will allow you to enter your Post Code in the ‘Postcode Search’ box on the right of the page.

Once entered, click on ‘SHOW’, and you will be taken to the page which will give details of your local Neighbourhood Team, your local priorities, issues being tackled by the Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) - made up of local residents and partner organisations, together with links to Neighbourhood updates, upcoming Neighbourhood meetings and Crime Statistics.

The Neighbourhood updates are produced on a monthly basis by your local Neighbourhood officers and give an overview of recent events, and Police related matters they have been involved with.

From the link you will also be able to access other areas of the Thames Valley Police website.

www.transportforbucks.net/Grass-cutting.aspx

The Food Standards Agency have issued advice on the E. Coli outbreak in Germany.

http://www.food.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2011/june/outbreak

or the short link

http://bit.ly/lDCQ3H
 

The roads in Buckinghamshire have suffered from a lack of proper maintenance
for many years. This has been due mainly to the previous Labour Government
changing the revenue funding formula for southern counties such as
Buckinghamshire and also importantly, removing all our so called 'supported
capital borrowing', which helped to fund road resurfacing.

This problem has been made worse by two long, hard winters. The result is
that our roads fall far short of the standard that you have a right to
expect. This situation cannot be rectified quickly but I am determined that
we should make a start.

I have therefore assembled a budget for a two-year programme to allow more
road repairs. I have done this partly by reprioritising spending within the
Transportation department. This has involved some difficult and
controversial decisions such as switching money from promoting walking and
cycling, removing the planned increase in locally spent budgets, postponing
the review of speed limits and much more.

Nevertheless, I believe that taking tough decisions is what you elect your
councillors to do and I stand by these changes in priority. In addition, I
am also asking the County Council to release £3 million from our reserves to
make a total road repair budget of £25 million over the next two years.
Whilst this sounds a lot of money (and it is your money as Council tax
payers), in reality it constitutes barely a tenth of what really needs to be
spent to upgrade most of our roads.

I am already receiving a number of e-mails from residents stating that their
particular roads should be given priority. I hope you would agree that it
would be completely wrong for money to be spent on the basis of who shouts
loudest or first.

Whilst Council officers will advise on which roads should be resurfaced, I
propose to devolve the final decisions to your locally elected County
Councillors as they should be most closely in touch with their local areas
and residents' views. Nevertheless, I must be very clear that, given the
size of the problem, even after this programme there will be roads in many
areas where residents' reasonable expectations will not be met.

My new Cabinet Member for Transportation, Peter Hardy and I will oversee the
programme and will do our best to ensure that we really are 'working on it'.

Yours faithfully

Martin Tett
Leader, Buckinghamshire County Council

The main programme will take place from Saturday 2nd June to Tuesday 5th June with celebratory activities throughout the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth. Further details of these events and of other national and regional Diamond Jubilee events will be announced in due course.

http://www.royal.gov.uk/LatestNewsandDiary/Pressreleases/2011/AnnouncementofplansforthecentralDiamondJubileeweek.aspx

or the short link: http://bit.ly/jnpmLe

The Government have released further information including details of Bank Holidays, exhibitions, projects, school holidays and term dates.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_197517

or the short link: http://bitly.com/dj-2012

Following the EU Directive and new UK Law we are pleased to offer advice through our Webmaster on how to manage cookies on your computer.

http://www.mh-p.info/?p=284

If you have a comment or question on this article or any others please leave a reply on the page.

Ofcom has published research into mobile broadband speeds.

Read the report and find out about 3G speeds across the UK

http://bit.ly/m-bb-s

The government, following an EU directive and through the Information Commissioners Office, has issued a new law governing the use of cookies.

All of the latest web browsers have the facility for the user to control cookies through the options menu but in a large number of cases refusing cookies can have a detrimental affect on the performance of the website.

You can read about the new law at http://bit.ly/law-cookie

You can read what our Webmaster and Statcounter (who manage the cookies on this website) have to say about this new legislation at http://www.mh-p.info/?p=274

Use My Wycombe to find out changes to your bin collection dates this bank holiday.

See http://mywycombe.wycombe.gov.uk/
 

Direct.gov and the Police have issued these tips to avoid becoming a victim of cash machine crime.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_197477

or the short link

http://bit.ly/cm-crime

Further information from the Speen Arean Action Group (SAAG) regarding the government consultation on HS2

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/Speen-Area-Action-Group-Update-May-2011.pdf

Cllr. Bill Bendyshe-Brown, Chairman of Wycombe District Council, recognised the following for their contribution to the community at a small ceremony last evening.

Professor Peter Thomas - Bucks Sports Board

Pastor John Richards - The Oasis Project

Sheena Dykes - Wycombe Night Shelter

Sgt. Michelle Ryan - Thames Valley Police

SWO Ash Malik - Royal Air Force, High Wycombe

Seamus Doyle - Veolia Environmental Services

Amanda Foister - Longridge Activity Centre

Sharon Henson - West Wycombe / Piddlington Parish Councils

David Griffin - Shopmobility

Dr. M Aslam - Sunday Cricket League

Sqdn. Ldr. Malcolm Maultby - Risborough Area Community Bus

Hilda Stern - Small & Medium Enterprises

Details of HS2 Road shows.

17th May - Greatworh - Greatworth Sports and Social Club Car Park

18th & 19th May - Amersham - Amersham and Chiltern Rugby Club

21st May - Waddesdon - Waddesdon Church of England School Car Park

23rd May - Washwood Heath - Hodge Hill Constituency Office Car Park

24th May - Chipping Warden - Village Hall Car Park

25th May - Upper Boddington - Boddington Village Hall Car Park

26th May - Calvert Green - Calvert Green Community Centre

The Adult Learning Free Taster Week runs from May 14th to 20th.

Why not see what's available in your area?

Visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_187560

or use the short link

http://bit.ly/a-l-w

You're never too old to learn!

Interested in holding a street party for the Big Lunch on 5 June. Find out how WDC can help -

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/events/street-party-for-the-big-lunch.aspx

or the short link

http://bit.ly/iFo0PR

The Government has launched a new website which explains the new student finance system which takes effect from 2012

http://yourfuture.direct.gov.uk/

Please follow the link below to view Hughenden NAG May's newsletter.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-May-2011.pdf

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/events.aspx

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/general/12apr11-council-services-over-the-bank-holidays.aspx

and specifically

http://maps.wycombe.gov.uk/mywycombe.aspx

Hughenden Parish Council are pleased to confirm that a new roundabout is being installed at Templewood at Walters Ash and a new Suspension Bridge at North Dean.

We hope the children of the Parish will enjoy these new pieces of equipment for many years to come!

This month’s Royal Wedding is a great occasion for national celebration, and street parties are a traditional way of doing this. Over the last few months rules have been relaxed and red tape cut to make it easier for people to organise a street party or fete.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Features/DG_WP196814

or the short link

http://bit.ly/rw-s-p

Please follow the link for minutes on the April Meeting of the Hughenden Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG).

www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-April-2011.pdf

Every few weeks the government will publish all the regulations affecting one specific sector or industry.

You tell them what’s working and what’s not, what can be simplified and what can be scrapped.

Based on your feedback, they will start getting rid of unnecessary red tape.

http://www.redtapechallenge.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/home/index/

or the short link

http://bit.ly/fMbniK

You can find all this information at:

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/council-services/council-and-democracy/elections-and-voting/forthcoming-elections.aspx

or the shortened link:

http://bit.ly/h74v1t

Please follow the link below to view Hughenden's Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) latest newsletter.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-April-2011.pdf

Census staff will carry an ID card

They will not ask for your bank or credit card details

You won’t be asked to leave your completed form on the doorstep

You can arrange a visit by calling the helpline number of the form

Census staff will only visit residents who have not returned their forms

Don’t let the caller in your house

If you’re not sure of the callers identity, keep the door closed and call the Census helpline (0300 0201 101)

For more information visit www.census.gov.uk  or call 0300 0201 101

For more information about getting started with your #2011census online questionnaire please visit

http://help.census.gov.uk/england/help/help-and-information/Gettingstarted/Completethequestionnaireonline/Topics/Gettingstartedwithyouronlinequestionnaire_S0004A.html

or http://bit.ly/fd4oas

If you're planning or considering holding a street party to celebrate the forthcoming Royal Wedding, Wycombe district Council have issued guidelines.

http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/news/events/street-party-for-the-royal-wedding.aspx

Due to the hard winter there are a number of pot holes areound the parish.

Please follow the link below for Hughenden Neighbourhood Action Group's March Newsletter.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Newsletter-Mar-2011.pdf

Please see below the link for February's minutes from the Hughenden Neighbourhood Action Group.

http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/NAG-Minutes-Feb-2011.pdf

At the Council Meeting on 8th March 2011, Hughenden Parish Council resolved to issue the following press release regarding the results from the Housing Needs Survey which was circulated throughout the Parish during the Autumn of 2010.

Please click on link to view the press release or click on Publications Page.

 http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/Housing-Needs-Survey-Press-Release.pdf 

The meeting will be held at the Parish Council Offices on  Wednesday 23rd March from 10.45 - 12.00.   This is your opportunity to come and speak to your Neighbourhood Police Officers PC Turnham and PCSO Hall.  They welcome any comments or concerns you may have regarding local policing.

Hughenden Parish Council welcomes new and existing candidates to stand for Election.

For parishioners who wish to stand, may we direct them to the 'About' tab at the top of our website which details what is invovled the Role of a Parish Council, and Parish Councillor.

For more information, please follow the link below regarding the elections in May.

Please follow the link below to for information which details corrections to flyer distributed.

Hughenden Parish Council have further invested in the maintenance of Hughenden Valley and Naphill playgrounds. 

Hughenden Valley Playground has had all the rotten and slippery stepping logs removed and replaced with new ones. 

Naphill Playground has had all the fastenings replaced on the swings of both the flat bed and cradle swings.

These improvements will ensure the safety of children who use the playground for many years to come!

Some parishioners have wondered where the BCC Community Gangs have gone as they haven't been obvious, maintaining areas of the Parish.  These gangs have been 'co-opted' to help with the filling of pot holes in other parts of the District.  As I am sure you can appreciate, with the terrible winter we had, this job has become a priority and they will be returning to the parish soon.

Hughenden Parish Council are pleases to provide a further grant of £5000 to Hughenden Valley Village Hall to help with the cost of the refurbishment of their new kitchen.

As part of her role she will keeping the Council up to date on any new iniitatives regarding road safety for Widmer End School. 

Some other schools within the Parish have Travel Plan Committees and HPC are delighted that other Councillors have been nominated to represent the Council on these.

One of the things that many of you will be concerned about locally is the proposal for a high speed rail link through the Chilterns. Last June, the Parish Council passed a resolution aligning itself with the Chiltern Society, which is against any proposed route passing through the Chilterns, but the members were waiting for the consultation to be issued before finalising its position. The consultation still has not arrived (24th February 2011), and the Parish Council passed a resolution in its February meeting to confirm its policy in this regard -

The Coalition Government has today launched the first stage of plans to give members of the public the right to comment on every aspect of new legislation, putting people at the heart of the legislative process.

Prime Ministers Introduction

Protection Of Freedoms Bill

You can now see faults that have been reported.

Report a new fault by street name or on a map.

Track problems that have been reported.

Visit the site to see all the things that can be reported direct.

http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/transport/ea_report_problem.page

Bucks County Council have released their proposed budget for 2011/2012 for public consultation. Residents can make comments on this by going online – www.buckscc.gov.uk/budget

New approach to handling complaints of antisocial behaviour will be trialled by eight police forces.

http://tinyurl.com/39rbqcn

The Parish Council is delighted to be providing a new roundabout.

This new roundabout will provide inclusive and collective play opportunities for children of all abilities.  It has space for two wheelhairs and a bench which will encourages teamwork and communication.

A roundabout was selected as the most appropriate piece of equipment after visiting Millbrook School in Downley. This school has pupils from Hughenden Parish and it was soon apparent which was the most popular play item!

The Parish Council hopes this equipment will be available from Spring 2011 and will complement the exisiting inclusive play facilities it already supplies in Great Kingshill's playground.

Hughenden Parish Council has been providing financial assistance to the Village Halls since 2004  This was due to the immense financial burden the playgrounds placed on the Village Hall budgets. 

The Council is providing a replacement Burma Bridge for North Dean Playground.  We hope that this new equipment will be in place in Spring 2011,  for all to enjoy.

In the Hughenden Valley , maintenance repairs have been approved to provide new chains to the Burma Bridge and Hanging Tyres.  In addition, all of the stepping logs which have become rotten and slippy, are too be replaced. 

In Naphill, the swing attachments are showing wear and need replacing.  These parts are now unfortunately obsolete. To stop the swings being decommissioned, the Parish Council has worked with a playground & metal manufacturer to provide a bespoke part.  This work will necessitate the swings being out of action for 2-3 weeks.  Hopefully this work will be undertaken over the winter to minimise disruption.

This investment by the Council equates to over £5,500.

Hughenden Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG)

Minutes of Meeting held on Thursday 25^th November 2010 at

Hughenden Parish Council Office

Attendees:     

 Peter Charles                  -        GKRA

 David Davies                  -        Hughenden PC

 Ian Guy                         -        Hughenden PC-Widmer End

                     David Jarman                -        Hughenden PC-Vice Chairman 

                     Stan Jones (Chairman)   -        WDNHWA/resident

                    Gloria Leflaive                -        NAWARA

                     Cath Macleod                -        GKRA           

          Lyn Ryan                       -        Widmer End RA

          Lin Smith (Vice Chair)    -        Hughenden PC-Hughenden Ward        Lee Turnham PC             -        TV Police

                    Terry Williams                -        GK Resident

Welcome:

The Chairman welcomed all attendees.

The meeting of NAG Chairs was held on 15^th November 2010. Subjects discussed included:-

1.     The lack of general awareness of the role of NAGs.

2.     The issue of whether NAG meetings are open or closed – it was agreed that it was left to the discretion of the NAG Chairs.

3.     As the “Have Your Say” meetings are unlikely to produce the priorities of NAGs for 2011, they will have to be determined by previous mechanisms such as public meetings and questionnaires, although means to improve the returns should be considered. Short term projects that might not immediately fit with the priorities should also be sought so that achievement of progress was more visible.

4.     Further cooperation between NAGs having the same priorities should be considered

5.     The impact of cutbacks should not affect Neighbourhood Policing, but attendance of police at lower priority incidents would be reduced. Volunteers may be used to fill gaps, and NAGs may help locate them.

6.     A scheme such as “Community Speedwatch” but for parking is being investigated.

Apologies:

Judy Whitehouse, Marianne Tyler and John Wood.

Minutes of Last meeting;

The Minutes of the last meeting held at the Parish Office on 21^st October 2010 were agreed by all attending subject to apologies also having been received from Peter Charles.

Matters arising;

It was agreed that matters arising from the last meeting that were on the agenda would be discussed when they arose.

The location of the small camera signs that cost some 20GBP each will be determined by the Speed Reduction WG. The required permission to mount on posts would then be progressed.

                                                                                          Action – Cath M/Lee T

Hughenden PC continues to pursue the sign banning heavy vehicles from the new Cryers Hill lay-by.

            Action – David D

Lee T had arranged for the NAG Newsletter to be circulated to the editors of RA Newsletters.

Peter Charles reported that the GKRA annual meeting had decided to initiate the litter collecting days in April 2011. Stan J and Cath M wanted some action in the interim, so a number of volunteers agreed to pick up litter on agreed roads.

                                                                                                  Action - volunteers

It is planned that the road safety poster competition would take place early next year.

                                                                                                              Action – Lee T

Speeding (Priority 1)

We are awaiting a response to the data from the recent speed measuring exercises that has been sent to TVP to support our request for an authorised location on the Missenden Road to be agreed for the TVP speed-measuring vehicle. It was proposed that Stan J writes to the head of Highways at the CC to urge action.

                                                                                             Action – Lee T/Stan J

We have received clearance to use the TVP SID for Community Speedwatch exercises throughout the Parish. It is planned to have one session per week throughout next year. Lee requested support to input the data, with training being provided. Cath M agreed to look into this.

                     Action – Cath M

With the budget cuts equipment maintenance might be an issue so provision could be applied for to the Parish.

          Action – Lee T/David D

The application for the TSID to be used in Naphill. Widmer End and Hughenden has been approved with funding from Richard Pushman.

                       Action – Cath M

Cath M reported the results from the police van checks that showed Hughenden Valley to be the worst in the Parish.

Litter Reduction (Priority 2)

Lee T has sent a letter to Skanska concerning the litter they are leaving behind and the lack of “making good” when they move on (digging up the daffodils). He also raised the concern about the workers disregard for people’s safety during the bonfire night celebrations at Great Kingshill.

                                                                                                     Action – Lee T/HPC

Peter Charles outlined the general difficulty of finding volunteers to pick up litter, and how best to publicise any programme we set up. It was agreed that the idea of residents clearing the area in front of their own houses should be pushed whenever possible.

                   Action - All

Parking (Priority 3)

Lee T reported that parking near schools was not improving, with drivers behaving very selfishly and not heeding any warnings. Tickets would be issued in future to persistent offenders.

                Action – Lee T

Great Kingshill School - David J gave an update on the work to initiate a minibus service to pick up children at collection points in Downley and Westbourne, as a starter, and deliver them safely to the school. It was agreed that a letter be sent by the Headmaster, Roger Dodds, to parents seeking their cooperation. The costing still needs to be worked out.

              Action – David J

Anti-Social Behaviour

Lee T reported that the “Grim Reaper” exercise worked well with 400 youths being engaged over two weeks. He also stated that his continued involvement with youths in the area has helped. The problem of noisy, antisocial use of cars in Great Kingshill has improved.

Burglary

There were six break-ins of sheds in the Parish last week, three in Widmer End and two in Great Kingshill. Horse jumping equipment was also stolen from a field on Hatches Lane.

Communications

Communications circulated since the last meeting included the November NAG Neighbourhood Newsletter and latest “have your say” notice, Community Impact Bucks Newsletter, Drugs Awareness booklet, Young Offender’s News Bulletin and an on-line survey from Wycombe DC Safety Team.

It was suggested that all members consider publishable items targeting one each month to raise the profile of the NAG. Community Speedwatch and School Parking were considered good topics, possibly advice concerning cycling on pavements.

                     Action – All          

The NAG Minutes and Newsletter should be circulated as widely as possible on notice boards etc..

                     Action – All

Youth Involvement

Hopefully the new facility at RAF Naphill currently being considered for use by the parish youth will prove practical after the visit there in January.

              Action – Lee T/David J

Any Other Business

The issue of an Emergency Plan for the area covered by the NAG was raised and following discussion it was agreed to set up a working party comprising Lin S, Gloria L, David J, Lee T, RAF Police and Stan J, to make recommendations, including involving Fire and Rescue, Health and Services etc.

              Action – David J

Following the circulation of the e-mail on 30 mph signs for bins, Peter Charles was in favour of the idea but thought the cost proposed was unnecessarily high. He would explore a cheaper alternative.

              Action – Peter C

Next Meeting 

To be held at the Social Centre, RAF Naphill, in January 2011 at 7.30.

Date to be agreed and circulated.

                                                                                                           Action  -David J

Stan Jones 3/12/10

Hughenden Parish Council is delighted to welcome Mrs Lyn Ryan as its new Councillor for the Widmer End Ward.  Lyn has lived in Widmer End for a number of years and is an active member of the community.  Lyn will be the Ward representative on the Finance Committee and will deputise for Cllr Guy on the Planning Committee.

Thank you to all parishioners who took part in our survey for Rural Affordable Housing.  As you are aware, the consultation period closed at the end of October.  We are expecting the results of the survey some time in January 2011.
 

This is a Community Message from the High Wycombe watch office on Wednesday 10th November 2010.

A local building company is experiencing problems with a bogus company using their identity. The local company trades under the names of Lee Pave or John Lee Construction Servicing Ltd, both based in the Stokenchurch area. They are concerned that an elderly person may suffer loss or a person or company will be duped by the bogus company.

They have requested that if anyone is contacted or approached by anyone purporting to be from this company they contact the office to confirm identity, before agreeing to any work to be done - They can be contacted on 01494 482992

If you have any information in relation to this message, please contact Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505

Clearing Snow and Ice - New Guidance

Hughenden Neighbourhood Action Group

As a reminder, the Hughenden Neighbourhood Action Group is a partnership of residents, residents associations, police and parish council. Its role is to focus on local issues related to crime and the fear of crime in the Hughenden parish area. Each year a questionnaire to determine the top three issues is completed by residents and this recently completed exercise identified speeding, litter and parking.

Various roads in the parish suffer from thoughtless drivers exceeding the speed limit, and considerable speeding data has been gathered by the Speed Reduction Working Group. The police are already focussing their attention on these stretches, and it is proposed that Community Speedwatch teams will be set up to reinforce the determination of residents to reduce the problem.

Many areas in the parish illustrate that to some littering is normal behaviour. Some parents no longer teach their children to keep the environment clean, so they become accustomed to the litter. The NAG is determined to improve matters and residents in the parish are being asked to remove any litter in the front of their property, as is done on the Continent. Together with street volunteers this should make a great impact. The argument that “I pay for this through the rates” is mistaken, as weekly litter picking of our streets would cost a fortune and the rates would increase accordingly.

Parking is mainly an issue around schools at peak times. Each problem school is being addressed individually in an attempt to solve its problems to the reasonable satisfaction of all stakeholders.

Further information is available from Stan Jones (716278) or PC Lee Turnham (736773).

10/8/10

Text of the full letter sent by Hughenden Parish Council on 9th June 2010 for inclusion in the Bucks Free Press.  The version that appeared in the press was reduced due to copy room.

“Following the report of the disrupted Annual Parish Meeting on 25th May 2010, and Mrs Morgan’s interview comments in the Bucks Free Press on 3rd June 2010, Hughenden Parish Council wishes to clarify a few matters.

It is unfair and misleading to suggest that the Council is being challenged to establish a need for rural affordable housing.  The Parish Council voted on 11th May 2010 to do a second parish wide survey in September 2010 so that data is fully up to date.  It further agreed to review the current list of possible sites and include new ones for consideration.  A challenge from Hughenden Valley residents was not required.

It is also unfair and misleading to keep suggesting that the Parish Council has been secretive about its interest in facilitating rural affordable housing.  This matter has been a regular agenda item for several years.  When commercially sensitive issues were under discussion, such as which housing association to go into partnership with, or which site to go out to public consultation on, this was done in camera.  This is normal practice.  Public consultation began as to the suitability of the Warrendene Road site as soon as it was possible to do so.

A vote of no confidence in the Parish Council’s handling of this issue has been claimed to have taken place at the Annual Parish Meeting on 25th May 2010.  The Council accepts that a group of Hughenden Valley residents objects strongly to the site on which the Parish has gone out to consultation.  However, a vote of no confidence in a Parish Council, taken at a Parish Meeting, has no validity in law and, in any case, the Chairman had closed the meeting before the vote was taken, due to the aggressive and disruptive behaviour of many residents at the meeting.  (The Clerk’s records indicate that 78 people were present, of whom 26 voted expressing no confidence.)

Parish Councils have to abide by a code of conduct, reach collective decisions and abide by them.  The planning committee of Hughenden Valley Residents Association, on the other hand, has the freedom to run a campaign in ways which are not possible for Parish Councils.  It is not elected, has no rules of engagement, and can say and do as it pleases, markedly different from the constraints rightly put on Parish Councils.

It is unfair and misleading to suggest the Council has not tried very hard to find a suitable site for rural affordable housing; ten sites were assessed in detail.

All of Hughenden Parish, as well as other local parishes, is within the green belt and AONB.  It is sometimes necessary to use a small area of land for rural affordable housing.  Wycombe District Council would have to agree to an Exception Site designation for this to happen; it does not open the floodgates to further development.  WDC granted such Exceptions for similar small developments in Bledlow, Great Kimble, Longwick, Hambleden and Lane End.

The Parish Council hopes that the response rate in the Housing Needs Survey going out Parish wide in September will be high. It needs to hear from people interested in homes, those who favour the provision of affordable homes, and those against.”

Chairman’s Annual Report at Annual Parish Meeting – 25th May 2010

Chairman’s Address.

The Chairman, Cllr Peggy Ewart, gave the Chairman’s report for the year.

            The past year has not been without incident!  There have been considerable achievements as well as some disappointments.  I will come to those in a moment but first I would like to express my appreciation to my fellow councillors for their support and encouragement to me personally.  It is not always understood that parish councillors are unpaid volunteers, trying to do their best for all parishioners.  Not all residents will like some of the decisions that are made but they are collective decisions of the whole council by which all councillors have to abide.  The Chairman is responsible for enabling discussions to be drawn to a conclusion but does not act without the knowledge and permission of the council as a whole.  My colleagues have enabled me to maintain my equilibrium when I have been under personal attack and I thank them very much for that.

The Council has three committees which report to it; Planning meeting every three weeks, Services and Finance & Administration meeting quarterly.

Councillor Gould, brings great experience and expertise to the chairmanship of the planning committee.  He is unable to be here this evening, but doubtless he will read this later.  This is the only committee which can act alone in the sense that it can respond directly to WDC regarding applications, and report to Council at its next meeting.  The committee consists of a representative from each ward.  This year the committee has dealt with over 130 applications of which just 16 were subsequently passed by WDC contrary to the committee’s opinion.  The ward representatives are very dedicated, know their own ‘patch’ and visit sites if necessary.  Their local knowledge is valued by WDC.

The Services committee consists of ten councillors, drawn from all wards. It ensures that the Council’s 60+ acres of land assets are well managed in a cost effective way.  More allotments have been let by reducing the size of the plots to make them more manageable; there are 180 plots and currently about 210 tenants. Expenditure far exceeds income and always will.  The plots are mostly very well worked and the hedges, fencing and grass well maintained.  Sheep are grazing in Vincents Meadow, aiding good husbandry of this land.  John Morris from the Chiltern Woodland Trust has assessed the Parish woodlands, which were given good marks and he has provided a management plan for the future.  Grants may be applied for to assist with future developments.  The beauty of the Garden of Rest at Four Ashes is a source of pride and gives solace and some pleasure to the bereaved.  Councillor Davies chairs this committee and his expertise and commitment are greatly appreciated.  He has also served as Vice Chairman this year and I have valued his experience and advice very much, particularly in difficult times.  Thank you very much!!!  The knowledge, experience and advice of the previous Chairman, Cllr John Rogers, has also been of considerable help to me.

As you know, the Parish Council maintains the village halls’ playgrounds in Hughenden Valley, North Dean, Naphill, and Widmer End.  It is pleased to be able to provide this service, ensuring safety and promoting the enjoyment of children.  It also facilitated the provision of a climbing wall in several locations during the school holidays.

The Council owns the play area at Templewood and also those on Great Kingshill recreation ground.  It is delighted to have been able to provide another piece of replacement equipment in Naphill, funded in a collaborative way by BCC, the Village Hall Council, and the Parish itself.

The provision of a new ‘teen’ area on the recreation ground at Great Kingshill, and the refurbishment of the very limited and outdated original play areas have been completed to the great satisfaction of the Council.  Grant funding was provided for about two thirds of this cost.  The work involved in organising two consultations, gathering views, dealing with tenders, not to mention appalling weather, was enormous.  The Council is very appreciative of the work done by the Clerk, Lynne Turner, and also by Emma Marsden, in bringing this project to completion.  There were stresses and strains along the way because, sadly, not everyone appreciates this achievement.  We were delighted that the High Sheriff of Buckingham was able to attend the official opening on 8th April, together with councillors, BCC and WDC play area officers, and local residents.

The report of the Finance & Administration Committee will be presented by its chairman, Cllr Konieczny, later so I will not comment on this aspect.

The Parish Council is pleased that the Neighbourhood Action Group area is now exclusively for this parish, bringing far greater relevance to our local community.  The Parish Council is well represented on the NAG, councillors attending from each ward.  We also appreciate our close co-operation with PC Turnham, our dedicated police officer.

The Council is consulted on wider issues as a matter of course.  For example, sites for gypsy and traveller encampments and the high speed rail link.  The latter will be responded to later, following liaison with County, the Chilterns Conservation Board and the Chiltern Society.

The Council is linked to its neighbours through the North West Chilterns Area Forum and the Vice Chairman, David Jarman, is at a meeting tonight regarding the proposed high speed rail link in Princes Risborough.  The forum committee meets quarterly as a rule and decides upon the use of some delegated funds such as for youth services and highways projects.  The sums are small but we did receive a grant for the climbing walls and £2000 for playground equipment in Naphill.

The second Parish public meeting of the year was held in October, some 40 parishioners attending to listen to, and ask questions of, Alistair Nicholson of WDC’s planning department.  The Council will continue with the practice of holding two public meetings per year.  Council meetings are always open to the public.

The Parish Council knew that its efforts to facilitate the provision of rural affordable homes would be contentious because of the difficulty in finding suitable sites.  Any site in the Parish is likely to be green field and green belt and require to be treated by WDC as an Exception Site.  A consultation Open Day on 10th March produced a lot of opposition, some support and approximately 40 expressions of interest in properties.  The Council has listened to concerns and criticisms that the Housing Needs Survey was conducted in 2006.  Wycombe District Council has requested that the Parish Council updates this survey; and, to this end, a new survey will be carried out in September, of the whole Parish at the same time rather than ward by ward, which is the way it was done the last time.  This should make it clearer that any houses built subsequently would be for people of the whole parish, not just those in the ward in which they might be built.  It has also been agreed to reassess all the sites on the original list, and to add new ones if any possibilities can be found.  All this is being done in the interests of greater transparency, not because there was anything inherently wrong with the initial processes.  If one development is successfully completed the Council could look at building more.  At the time of the original Survey it was thought there were at least 10 ‘candidates’ in each of the 4 wards; an estimate borne out by the Open Day.

The Parish Council meets monthly and the Standing Committees, Finance & Administration, Services and Planning make recommendations to it.  Some items, such as rural housing, remain on the full Council Agenda for a long time!  Thus all decisions are made by the full Council.  This Council believes it should be active in the service of all of its parishioners.  It could just maintain things as they are, and do it well, but it should also be looking forward in order to serve the local community even better.  Just maintaining the status quo might lead to a quieter life but would also be an abdication of our wider responsibilities.

I wish to record my thanks for the dedication of the Clerk, Lynne Turner, and the Clerical Assistant, Emma Marsden.  They work very hard, often in difficult circumstances.  The Council is also appreciative of the work done by its contractors, organised and monitored by the office staff.

            The Chairman then closed by saying the members of the public were welcome to ask questions of her, the Clerk, or one of the committee Chairmen, later in the meeting.

Cllr Peggy Ewart – 24th May 2010

Report from Jean Fox on Hughenden Parish Consultation Event, 10th March 2010

Held in the Hughenden Parish Council offices, 3.00pm – 7.30pm

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Written Comments from Visitors:

42 Opposed (67.74%)

2 Neutral about the development itself but have questions about allocation procedure, housing need, site selection, lack of amenities (0.32%)

19 In Favour, (30.64%)

37 visitors registered an interest in an affordable housing scheme

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Transcribed Comments:

1.       This project seems to be an ego trip for the Parish Council.  They are normally at the bottom of the food chain but hey presto, they have the limelight.  The proposal is (undecipherable).  The location is not suitable.  There are better options which appear to have been ruled out.  A beautiful vista is planned to be ruined

                                                                                                            - Mr & Mrs H, (Warrendene Road)

2.       I agree with the plans for the affordable housing and the location of the houses.  I currently rent a house with my partner and young son and cannot afford to buy in the local area.  This would therefore provide a great opportunity to live in the area in which I grew up and to be close to my family.                        

                                                                                                            - Miss B, (Greenside)

3.       It is hard to believe that the Parish Council can even consider building houses in an AONB.  This site is currently farmed, so not even left in an untidy state.  Does Hughenden Valley really need affordable housing?  Wycombe is only 3 miles away and can offer housing to suit all incomes!  

                                                                                                            - Mrs H, (Warrendene Road)

4.       The proposal makes a lot of sense – there is clearly a need.  A sympathetic development is important.  It would be a good idea to include space for a community shop – the current one is on a temporary site and tucked away.  The limitation around the development should reassure people.  It is also important that as a parish, we sustain our wider community.  The leaflet from HVRA was somewhat biased – people need facts and not the opinion of others – we should make up our own minds!      - Mrs S, (Coombe Lane)

5.       I will fight this.                                                                                  - Mr P, (Warrendene Road)

6.       Although I agree in principle to affordable homes for local people, I am very anxious about the potential for future building on greenbelt land.  I purchased my house in Hughenden Valley at a premium to move away from a high density area, to enjoy the peace and quiet and low density of population in a rural area.  I also feel very sorry for the owners of the properties opposite the proposed development who have in good faith purchased their houses with the expectation of a clear beautiful view of our wonderful countryside.  I would therefore not agree with this proposal.  The possibility of future building on agricultural greenbelt land would be seriously threatened.                                                                    – VB, (Friars Gardens)

7.       I think it is a good thing to be doing and well overdue.  The countryside is a living place and people from the country should be allowed to live in the country.  Working fireplaces would be a nice touch.

                                                                                                            – Mr T, (Cadmore End Common)

8.       We are not against the principle of affordable housing but (undecipherable) not realised the qualifications needed to purchase same.  If it concerns Hughenden Valley only then that is our interest and having lived here for 40 year, would like to stay.  Concerns about jobs and amenities.  Suggest you might look elsewhere where there is a quantified need.                                                     – Mr & Mrs J (Fleet Close)

9.       In my opinion this whole project has gone too far without earlier consultation.  The questionnaire that this suggestion does not stand up to scrutiny for as a marketing study much more and specific data would be necessary.  Tick boxes only give general answers and no more.  If the Parish Councillors are representing the parishioners why have we got to this stage with no information.  My specific arguments against this project were formerly sent to WD Councillors and should be taken as part of my response.  I am totally and utterly against this siting if AONB must have and I quote “general local support” and I know it does not why this project even get started.  If there is a requirement for more affordable housing why does it have to be rural?  If this proposal was to go ahead, what compensation will be given to those who are seriously financially impaired.  What steps are to be taken to control the ‘quality’ of the site commensurate with the current surrounding area.  These sites as we are all aware and have seen soon fall into a dilapidated state thus distracting even more from the ‘blot’ on the landscape.  Please think again and do your homework properly.  Remember if there is a requirement for rural affordable housing, there is an equal requirement to protect the current residents                                                                          - Mr B

10.   The shared ownership scheme is a fantastic opportunity for first time buyers and young families to get their feet on the property ladder. A community needs to keep both young and old families alongside each other, and with no affordable housing in Hughenden currently, I feel many first time buyers will have to move elsewhere in order to find something suitable.                              -KW (Friars Gardens)

11.   How can they spoil Hughenden Valley’s green space? They should look for land which is more suitable, not green belt land. In no time it will be another estate. Corridor houses from Disraeli Park right through the valley- disgusted at this proposal done in secret!! How much land will they shift so these houses are in keeping with the valley?                                                                  -CH (Warrendene Road)

12.   You are not going far enough- building houses is fine. Why not build houses with units for small families/working people. This would provide employment and housing.    - JG (Perks Lane)

13.   The most unsuitable site. Presumably chosen because agriculture land is cheap. There are no amenities, no buses, no room in schools. Where will all the lorries that currently deliver to Oakleaf farm park? There is a parcel of land at the bottom of Cryers Hill, sold off in small lots. The Council put an embargo on building, the reasons given are exactly the reasons they are ignoring. Once this development is approved it opens up the opportunity for everybody else to develop any agriculture land that is currently protected by Green-Belt legislation. Have you considered the old Harrison Stamps Brownfield site? Far more suitable with all the relevant amenities.                                                                                  - RC (Bramley End)

14.   A very good idea, the need for local people who cannot afford prices of a large family house is vital.

- NC (Stocking Lane)

15.   I feel the basic principle of affordable housing is flawed. People will live where they can afford to buy and there is no need to attempt to change the demographics of Hughenden Valley to suit a housing principal. Why do we need lower income younger people in HV? There is no transport infrastructure or employment. No amenities are available. I will welcome these people into HV, when like me, can afford to buy.

                        - PB (Friars Gardens)

16.   I think this is a great idea. I have a family and I can’t afford to stay much longer in this area because of the cost. I would have to move my children from the local schools to a town. There are a lot of people like me. I really would like to stay in this area so my children can grow up here but without schemes like this I won’t be able to.                                                                                       - AD (Widmer End)

17.   “Another done deal”. Surely a totally inappropriate site- no amenities, school full, doctor surgery full, no shop and no bus service. Area of outstanding natural beauty- green belt?? Why not protected? Secrecy by Parish Council. PS- Where will the lorries delivering to Oakleaf Farm park? The police have insisted they park away from housing.                                                                     - JH (Warrendene Road)

18.   Will there be scope within the proposed development to accommodate a permanent shop or other community relevant facility?                                                                               - IS (Coombe Lane)

19.   This development would change the whole nature and rural aspect of Warrendene Road. The “open area” feel would be eroded and I think the development would look out of place with relation to the existing housing in the road. Transport links to HW are almost non existent which is surely inappropriate to those people on low income who require affordable housing. There must be more appropriate development sites in the area i.e. far above reasons and also not AONB and green belt areas.          - ANON (Warrendene Road)

20.   I think this project is essential for young people who can’t afford to buy/rent property in the local area!! Me and my partner are still living with parents at the age of 26 and 29! This is very depressing. Please consider is and other people in this situation.                                                      - JC (Cryers Hill Lane)

21.   Particularly disturbing is the implication that anyone with housing needs that does not register support for this proposal will not be housed. If successful housing should be allocated to those already registered with the Council/Housing Trust or similar, if they live in the parish.  This is the second “special circumstance” claim within the past year in Warrendene Road alone. We are on a slippery slope- in a few years “special circumstances” will be the norm!                                                  - PP (Warrendene Road)

22.   Good time to build nice, quiet good quality housing at reasonable prices.    - AC (High Wycombe)

23.   Proposal badly thought out. 1. Houses would be built on raised land creating eyesore. 2. AONB Wycombe DC will destroy it. 3. WDC have had opportunities to build in more sensible places but these privately developed.

- Hackling (Warrendene Road)

24.   As this is for people with a local connection (including resale) I am wholly in favour of this development. We need 1) help to keep younger people in the area. 2) To give new blood for future families to use and develop the area e.g. use of schools, social, web. 3) The housing is of good quality builds which are sympathetic with the area and extend existing housing developments (which are effectively on green belt).

- KB (Bryants Bottom)

25.   This is the second time in a year that the term “special circumstances” has been used in Warrendene Road to get round the AONB and green belt rules. The secrecy that this whole affair has been conducted in makes a mockery of “transparency” in local government. To make arable land out of production for any purpose (let alone development) is deplorable, especially since there is already development land available in the Hitchenden Farm Field adjacent to Cryers Hill/Valley Road.               - MP (HP14 4)

26.   About time- to many locals had to move out when we left home due to cost. Thank you for thinking of us!

                                                                                                            - MH

27.   HVPC has handled this very badly. As a household we are totally opposed to this proposal

                                                                                                            - SS (Warrendene Road)

28.   We are excited about the proposal for affordable houses in Hughenden Valley.  I have lived in the valley since I was three and am still living with my mum, along with my husband and one year old son as we cannot get on the property ladder. My husband works full time and I am a midwife and would love to raise a family in the valley and have previously thought this to be a dream. Please consider this.     - GB (Friars Gardens)

29.   I completely object to this proposed development and will take all means necessary to prevent it from happening at this site- including legal action. For more details please refer to my email to Hughenden PC on 10^th March 2010.                                                                     - JR (Warrendene Road)

30.   I feel there is a need for more affordable housing for local people. In this area it is very difficult for young people to get on the property ladder and this should help some of those people.      - ANON

31.   Why has the Warrendene Road site been selected when there is no regular bus service into Wycombe and also there have been past problems with the main sewer overflowing causing some flooding in particular. Other suitable sites would have a much smaller impact on the AONB.   - ANON

32.   I am very interested in this proposed building project. I have lived in Hughenden Valley for 27 years and my 2 daughters attend Hughenden First School and GT Kingshill School so did my oldest grandson. My second daughter, G, also attended the play group in the village hall. She is now living with me, together with her husband and baby who is 1 year old. They would very much like to live in the area and give their child the chance to grow up in this beautiful area and do to the same excellent schools. G a is a midwife and her husband works in his father’s company in Beaconsfield. They cannot afford to buy in the valley at the current prices. On every survey I have completed “affordable housing” has been my priority- the residents should not be selfish – we should give our youngsters the opportunity to live here too; we were so lucky to be able to afford to buy property here before prices escalated out of all proportion. Let’s give them a chance please! I am happy with the site the builders have in mind.                                   - JF (Friars Gardens)

33.   I think the proposed development is detrimental to the village- on agricultural land!! A promise that would never happen. No-one wants this but you- a group who do not even live here. Think about the people who do! NO NO NO.                                                                                 - JC (Bramley End)

34.   I am in favour of affordable rural housing but I am not in favour of the site chosen for this development.  Hatches Lane where the field is owned by the Parish Council would, in my opinion, make an ideal site.

                                                                                                            - JM (Fleet Close)

35.   The room was too crowded to be able to read and take in the information provided. It would have been good to have more information to take away and discuss with family member who was unable to attend. If people are not allowed to extend their houses in this area to provide sufficient room for growing families, it should not be allowed to build 10 new houses on AONB land. Do NOT agree with this proposal.                      - ANON

At the Parish Council meeting on 11th May 2010 it was UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED that this Parish Council is very concerned about the proposal from the Government for a new high speed rail link from London to Birmingham, the preferred route for which would cut directly through the Chilterns AONB.  This Parish Council will continue to obtain as much relevant information as possible in order to respond appropriately to the consultation which is intended to take place in the Autumn of 2010.  The Parish Council will co-operate fully with Bucks County Council, the Chilterns Conservation Board, the Chiltern Society, other relevant bodies and local residents, in the hope that it can support a co-ordinated and informed response to the official consultation.

The Chairman notified the meeting that confirmation had been received from Bucks County Council of an extra Local Area Forum meeting scheduled for Tuesday 25th May 2010 at 7.30pm in Princes Risborough Primary School to discuss and give information on this issue and this will be open to the public

There is a letter being hand delivered to every household who receives the Hughenden Valley Residents Association newsletter.  This letter is in response to the HVRA Chairman’s Welcome contained within the recently delivered newsletter.  This letter can be viewed by clicking on the link below.

It refers to two letters previously sent by HVRA Chairman and one by the HVRA Planning Sub Committee Chairman, regarding the Parish Council’s Rural Affordable Housing Project.

These letters, and the Parish Council’s response, can be viewed by clicking on the links below:

HVRA letter 100304

HVRA letter 100316

HVRA planning letter 100316

HVRA News April 2010 response

340410

**UPDATE** 11th May 2010

Continuing with the process following the open day on 10th March 2010, at the full Council meeting on 11th May 2010 the Parish Council resolved to update the housing needs survey for the whole Parish and, to this end, a new survey questionnaire will be issued to every household within the Parish during September 2010.

Over the summer months the English Rural Housing Association will look again at all the sites throughout the Parish, including those already considered.  They will also look at any new sites identified by themselves or by the Housing Needs Survey or individual suggestions.

This website will be updated as and when there is any new information, but it is not expected that there will be any further information until the results of the housing needs survey have been received.

How was a housing need established?

The Parish Council carried out a consultation in 2004 which formed the basis of the Parish Plan.  In it, more than 50% of those who responded asked that the Parish Council consider the provision of Rural Affordable Housing (RAH) within the Parish.  In 2005 the Rural Housing Trust conducted a survey of all households within the Parish with regard to RAH and asked for parishioners who felt they had a ‘need’ to complete some details on a form.  From the whole Parish a ‘need’ was shown of 118 households requiring housing of some description.  On that basis the Parish Council decided to proceed with trying to facilitate the provision of housing.  However, rather than four schemes of ten houses, it was agreed that one scheme of ten dwellings would be provided somewhere within the Parish and this would be open to the whole Parish, from the point of view of eligibility.

What exactly is Rural Affordable Housing?

Rural Affordable Housing is a government-backed initiative whereby homes are provided within the rural communities, which are and remain affordable.  The homes can be rented or shared ownership and are not part of the scheme which allows then to be purchased outright (such as the old Council house scheme).  This means that they will remain as affordable homes in perpetuity.

Why does it have to be on Green Belt and AONB?  Why was a brown field site not considered?

In order for the homes to remain ‘affordable’ the cost of the land has to be reasonable.  Normal brownfield or development land is too expensive for this type of development to be achieved.  It needs to be on an ‘exception’ site, which costs a bit more than agricultural land, but is nowhere near the cost of the usual brownfield site.

Any site classified as brown field would have been within the development boundary and therefore not suitable for two reasons – firstly these sites are available for open market development and are priced accordingly, and secondly the affordable housing could not be restricted to local occupancy. It is important to the Parish Council that the occupation of affordable housing is restricted to people with a local connection. All of the green field sites in Hughenden Parish are in green belt.

Why was this site selected?

Initially, a survey was done of the whole Parish by the Rural Housing Trust and they looked at land that was in or nearby to the settlement of the villages in the Parish.  Widmer End ward had to be excluded, as the District Council consider it to be ‘urban’ and therefore an exception site is not permitted in that area.  The RHT brought the list down to six sites, which they then asked the District Council planning department to give a view on as to the suitability of such a scheme.  In October/November 2009, the Parish Council asked for four more sites to be considered and this was done by English Rural Housing Association, to whom the Council had changed in September 2009, following the changes at Rural Housing Trust which meant they no longer worked on the provision of housing.  The site at Warrendene Road was considered to be the most suitable from the point of view of planning considerations as well as the availability of the  land.

What other sites where considered?

The whole Parish was considered in the initial stages and a shortlist of sites was drawn up for further consideration:-

Site 1:  Land owned by HPC on Hatches Lane, Hughenden Valley

Site 2:  The land on Warrendene Road, Hughenden Valley – currently under consideration

Site 3:  Land on Hatches Lane, Hughenden Valley, next field up hill from site 1

Site 4:  Land on Valley Road in centre of village, opposite Trees Road entrance

Site 5:  Land at north corner of Warrendene Road and Bryants Bottom Road

Site 6:  Land on Bryants Bottom Road, just past first houses on right hand side

Subsequently four more sites were added to the list at the request of the Parish Council:-

Site 7:  Top of Clappins Lane, Walters Ash

Site 8:  Below development on Stocking Lane, Naphill

Site 9:  Hampden Road, on corner to south side of Perks Lane

Site 10: Cryers Hill Road, Hughenden Valley, below Cottage on the Hill

Will the new houses have an impact on the price of existing properties?

There is no evidence that the value of existing properties is affected by a scheme of this type.

Will this result in further development on the site?   What guarantees are in place to stop further development?

There is no intention to provide any further development of this site.  The Parish Council insisted on being given the remaining two thirds of the field in order to give added protection to this green space.

How can Hughenden Parish Council afford to buy this land?

This land is not being purchased by the Parish Council.  The land is being purchased by English Rural Housing Association.

Why were discussions regarding Rural Affordable Housing confidential at Council meetings?

Until a site was identified, the information that was being discussed was seen as being private to the individual landowners and this therefore meant that that element of the discussions was taken in closed session.

There are limited community facilities in Hughenden Valley especially in Warrendene Road thereby making this site unsuitable.

The facilities within Hughenden Valley, such as a shop and the school, make this a suitable area for consideration.

Significant increase in traffic flow.

There is no evidence that a scheme of ten houses will adversely affect the traffic flow in this area.

Will the hedgerows along the proposed site be protected?

If this site is developed, steps will be taken to keep any impact on the hedge line to a minimum.

Has the problem of flooding/drainage been considered?

This type of consideration will be taken during the technical part of the process.

What criteria are used to establish who has a provable, local connection?

The criteria includes:-

• People who have been permanently resident within the Parish for at least three years
• People permanently employed in the Parish for at least three years
• People who have a strong connection with the Parish, such as family associations.

The above questions were submitted by visitors to the Open Day and in written correspondence. The following questions and answers have been added to provide further clarity:-

Has a specific design been decided upon?

Not yet. If the decision is made to submit a planning application then the Chiltern Design Guide guidance would be taken in to account, and also the views of the Chilterns Conservation Board itself.

Who would submit the planning application?

English Rural Housing Association.

How would potential applications for housing be sorted?

Applications would be considered against the agreed criteria.  ERHA would deal with this with local knowledge being contributed by the Parish?

What happens if a tenant/part owner turns out to be a ‘bad’ occupier?

ERHA inspects properties regularly to ensure they are being properly looked after.  There is no reason to think occupiers of the properties would mismanage them.  If there were an issue with an occupier then the matter would be dealt with promptly under the terms of the lease and this could lead to eviction.  Local residents are better protected from ‘bad’ neighbours on developments of this kind than they would be from nearby owner occupiers.

What does ERHA gain?

EHRA is a ‘not for profit’ developer whose function is to facilitate and manage rural affordable homes.  The terms under which it works are prescribed in law.

What happens next?

1.      The evidence from visitors to the Open Day will be reviewed by EHRA and the Rural Housing Enabler.  This will include all expressions of interest in the properties, as well as written comments against for and against the scheme.  Data from HVRA will also be taken into account.

2.      Letters and emails submitted direct to the Parish Office will also be considered.

3.      All aspects of the evidence, and the scheme, will be considered by HPC, WDC, EHRA and the Rural Housing Enabler from Community Impact Bucks, and a recommendation made about:-

              proceeding to seeking full planning permission

                                        or

              reconsidering the site

                                        or

              abandoning the proposed scheme.

4.      The Parish Council would discuss and vote upon whether to proceed.

Hughenden Parish Council is pleased to announce the Grand Opening of the improved play areas at Great Kingshill. The Ceremony will take place on 8th April at noon at the Great Kingshill Recreation Ground. The Council is delighted to welcome Mr Allan Westray, High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, to officiate the ceremony.

The new improved playground and the introduction of a Youth Area will greatly benefit children of all ages in Great Kingshill and around the Parish.  Hughenden Parish Council was delighted to receive a substantial grant from the Department of Children, Schools and Families through Buckinghamshire County Council and Wycombe District Council.  Hughenden Parish Council would also like to thank Great Kingshill Resident's Association for a contribution towards the equipment in the Junior Play Area.

The Parish Council would welcome any parishioners and children who would like to attend and celebrate the opening of these fabulous new facilities.

The Open Day on March 10th created a great deal of interest; so much so that the Parish Office was overcrowded at times. It was not an ideal venue but a larger room was not available for the length of time required.  The Council thought it better to use its own office so the tenative plans could be put in the public domain as soon as possible.

Residents are welcome to look at the draft outline plans in the Parish Office if they were unable to do so on the 10th.  Open times are 9.30 - 13.00 Monday, Wednesday and Thursday or by appointment.  Forms will be available for written questions / comments.

Arrangements are being made to place draft plans, and other related information, on this website.

RURAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The Parish Council is committed to trying to facilitate the provision of ‘affordable homes’ in the rural community. The process has now reached the point where an Open Day is being organized to seek the views of parishioners on the draft proposals.

Some enquirers have indicated they think the Open Day on March 10th 2010 is presenting a ‘fait accompli’. THIS IS NOT THE CASE. It is all part of a long process. You are urged to visit the office on March 10th 2010 between 3pm and 7.30pm if you possibly can so that English Rural Housing representatives can answer any questions you may have. The following points are made in order to provide initial clarification:-

·         People are being invited to register for homes because there has to be definite evidence of need. So far needs have only been identified in surveys.

·         If there is insufficient interest from people meeting the specific criteria then no development will take place.

·         Outline plans have been drawn up so there is something to discuss and consult about. These are DRAFTS.

·         WDC planners have indicated that something along these lines is acceptable to officers. If there is enough interest to proceed further then a planning application will be drawn up and consulted upon in the usual way.

·         10 sites were investigated before Warrendene Road was identified as the preferred option. Details of these, and the reasons for rejection, will be available at the Open Day.

More information will be put on this website after March 10th, providing answers to general questions asked on the day, and giving an opportunity for further consultation. The Open Day is part of the process, not the end of it.

Cllr Peggy Ewart - Chairman

HUGHENDEN PARISH COUNCIL

RURAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING

·        Do you require affordable housing?

·        What do you think about providing homes for parishioners?

Hughenden Parish Council in partnership with English Rural Housing Association and Community Impact Bucks

is holding an Open Day on:

Wednesday 10th March 2010 at

Hughenden Parish Council Offices

from 3.00pm to 7.30pm

This is an opportunity for you to let us know what you think, and raise any questions that you may have about the proposed

affordable housing scheme in the Parish

as well as register your housing need.

HOUSING FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

The Parish Council, in partnership with the English Rural Housing Association, is considering the provision of ten affordable homes for local people.  There would be a mix of two and three bedroom homes in both rented and shared ownership.  The need for such homes has been identified through surveys and in the Parish Appraisal.

After an exhaustive search, a small area of land has been identified in Warrendene Road, Hughenden Valley, as being suitable for building such homes.  Draft scheme layouts and basic sketch designs have been produced, which are acceptable to Wycombe District Council planners, the Parish Council, and the landowner.    It is intended that this will be a small, attractive development (see similar examples below), provided in perpetuity for the use of parishioners with a strong, provable, local connection.  The Parish would have ownership of, and manage, the surrounding land; there would be no further built development.

The properties would be for the benefit of parishioners in all the villages within Hughenden Parish.

Interested parties are welcome to attend an open day, which will be held in the Parish Council Offices, The Common, Great Kingshill on 10th March 2010 between 3pm and 7.30pm to -

·        View the provisional plans

·        Ask questions of the Housing Association and Parish Councillors

·        Make comments on the project

·        and take the opportunity to register for the properties

All views are welcome!  Please come in and see us.

Hughenden Parish Council is delighted to announce the development of a new piece of play equipment for Naphill.  The new equipment will be completely bespoke and will be designed to resemble a 'Control Tower' to celebrate Naphill and Walters Ash's clinks with the RAF.

Hughenden PArish Council would like to thank and acknowledge, Cllr Richard Pushman, Naphill Village Hall Committee and the Local Community Partnership (part of Bucks Councty Council) for their contribution to the cost of this project.

We hope that this new and exciting Control Tower will be in place by the end of March 2010.

Hughenden Parish Council is delighted to announce a new playing surface being installed in North Dean Playground.  The new surface is made from Cushion Fall which is made of recycled wood.  This will provide a safe and attractive play surface for years to come!

Following on from the success this year of the climbing wall, Hughenden Parish Council are delighted to bringing the wall back for the teenagers of the parish.

On 18th February 2010 the Climbing  Wall will be situated at the car park next to the Council Offices in Great Kingshill - from 11.00 - 13.00 and then at Naphill Village Hall car park from 14.30 - 16.30.

The return of the climbing wall forms a part of the Council's commitment to the youth of the parish.  We would really like to encourage teenagers from around the parish to come and have a go!!

For further information, please contact the Parish Clerk, Lynne Turner on 01494 715296 or hughendenpc@btconnect.com

Public Consultation on Refurbishment of Great Kingshill Playground and Teen Area.

A huge thank you to all the residents of Great Kingshill who took the trouble to come and view our proposed plans and meet us in person at the GKRA AGM.

The Parish Council was delighted that the overall opinion was in favour of the proposed refurbishments to our very tired playground.  Support was also positive for the separate Teen Area.

The Parish Council carefully considered all the views and suggestions put forward from residents. Due to your feedback we are able to put forward slightly amended plans which take into consideration some of the comments of neighbouring residents.

These new plans will be discussed at the next Full Council Meeting on October 13th.  Once approved we hope to be able to start constructing this exciting new project in the Autumn.

Please see below the new plans.

Revised Playground Plan

Latest Revision

Hughenden Parish Council are delighted to welcome parishioners to its 'Get to know your Parish Council' meeting on the 2nd November 2009 at Great Kingshill School, Cryers Hill.

Our guest speaker will be Alistair Nicholson, from Wycombe District Council who will be speaking about planning and enforcement issues.

We will include brief details of how the Council allocates funding within the Parish.

Light refreshments will be provided and we look forward to seeing you there.

For further information, please contact Lynne Turner - 01494 715296

Hughenden Parish Council are delighted to be awarded a grant from the Playbuilder Scheme Funding from the Department of Children, Schools and Families. This funding will used  towards the cost of the new Teen Area and refurbishment of the playground at Great Kingshill.

Speeding Crack down in the Parish

Speeding cars throughout the parish is one of the number one concerns from residents.  Hughenden Parish Council is working in close association with the Police and the Residents Associations to help combat this dangerous menace.

In August the Police undertook a two day speed enforcement day on Valley Road and Warrendene Road in Hughenden Valley.  It resulted in 47 prosecutions with the top speed being 54mph in a 30mph zone!  More enforcement days are planned in other locations throughout the Parish.

GKRA have also installed a SID (Speed Indicator Device) on the Missenden Road in Great Kingshill.  This highlights to drivers how fast they are going, if they are over the speed limit.

We hope that these initatives will help keep speeding to a minimum around the Parish.

Hughenden Parish Council are delighted to welcome Miss Jennifer Sole as the new Ward Councillor for Hughenden Valley.

Jennifer has lived in Hughenden Valley for the majority of her life and is a keen Wycombe Wanderers fan!  Jennifer is a Solicitior and our youngest Councillor as she in her mid twenties. 

Jennifer is very much looking forward to representing the residents of the Hughenden Valley Ward and can be contacted on 01494 563516. 

Hughenden Parish Council would like to congratulate the villages of Naphill and Walters Ash for coming Runners Up in the prestigious 'Village of Year' competition!

This competition is organised by BALC (Bucks Association of Local Councils) and is hotly contested throughout the county.

We are also delighted that Great Kingshill and Hughenden Valley were awarded Highly Commended status.

These excellent results are testament to the hardwork of the resepective Village Residents' Associations.

Hughenden Ward Vacancy

Hughenden Parish Council were delighted by the response to the vacancy in the Ward.  Interviews will be conducted in September and we hope to have a new Councillor in place by the October Council meeting.

Templewood Playground, Walters Ash

The next phase of work will be undertaken shortly at Templewood Playground in Walters Ash.  Extensive clearance will be undertaken which includes the removal of the old playground fence, dog guard and gate.  In addition, there will pruning of the shrubs at the back of the play area and the brambles and scrub removed.

We hope once this clearance has been completed, the Council will be able to undertaken further landscaping next year to improve this already attractive area.

Public consultation has now closed for the playground.  Please see below the plans for  the playground and the results of the consultation will shortly be published.

A big thank you to all residents who took time to view the plans and make their comments. 

Public Consultation for Playground at Great Kingshill

In September 2008 we asked the residents of Great Kingshill ward for their thoughts regarding the refurbishment of the playground in Great Kingshill.  Thanks to your contributions, we were able to identify key areas as a direct result of your feedback.

• Better equipment for toddlers
• Better facilities for older children aged 12+

Improvements Proposed

Existing Playground - located in original position

• Retention of Multi-play Unit
• New cradle swings
• Nest swing
• Boat swing
• New toddler multi-play unit
• Creative landscaping - boulders, mounds, stepping logs
• Bamboo and willow igloo

New Youth / Teen area - located where old ball wall is situated

• New Ball Wall with goal mouth, basket ball ring, cricket stumps.
• Area of seating
• Rope swing
• Tyre swings
• Hammock seat
• Creative landscaping

We would now welcome your comments on the proposed new schemes which the Council believes will greatly ehaqnce the enjoyment of the recreation ground.

Pictures and diagrams will be on display at the Parish Offices and can be viewed on Mondays and Thursdays from 9.30am to 1pm from 20th July 2009 until 31st August 2009 or evenings by prior arrangement with the Clerk.

Alternatively click on these links for the refurbished playground:
http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/6400166a-1.pdf
http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/6400166a-2.pdf
http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/6400166a-3.pdf

and these for the new Teen Area:
http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/PF61_152-Design.pdf
http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/PF61_152-Illustrations.pdf
http://www.hughendenparishcouncil.org.uk/PF61_152-Teen.pdf

Hughenden Parish Council members will also be attending the AGM of the Residents' Association on 20th September 2009 when you can ask questions and give your views.

We hope with your support, Great Kingshill will have a play area of which it can feel justifiably proud and which will provide enjoyment for present and future generations!

If you have any questions, please call the Clerk of the Council, Lynne Turner, on 01494 715296 or by email on hughendenpc@btconnect.com

New Parish Chairman and Vice Chairman elected

In May the Council holds its Annual Council Meeting and during that meeting a new Chairman and Vice Chairman were elected.  The new Chairman is Councillor Peggy Ewart who is a ward Councillor for Naphill.  The new Vice Chairnan is Councillor David Davies who is Ward Councillor for Great Kingshill. 

Both Councillors have been elected to Hughenden Parish Council for a number of years and bring a wealth of experience to their respective roles.

The sheep are moving to Little Burnham Field, Hughenden Valley.

As part of Hughenden Parish Council's Country Stewardship Scheme, we have been using a small flock of Shetland Sheep,.  They help us maintain our rural areas by keeping encroaching srubland in check.  They were successfully introduced to Vincents Meadow in Naphill in the Spring and they are now moving to Little Burnham Field, Hughenden Valley.

Little Burnham Field, is situated next to our allotment garden in Hughenden Valley and we would ask parishioners not to enter this field from mid-August.  Thank you.

Goldfish in Vincents Meadow Pond!

The pond in Vincents Meadow is a beautiful spot and an important ecological site.  We are delighted that it is home to the Greater Crested Newt which is a protected species.  Unfortunately, we have had goldfish released into the pond which is extremely harmful to the delicate eco-system.  The Council has had to undertake the removal of these fish and so far we removed over 400 at considerable expense!

Please can we remind parishioners NOT to release anymore fish and also not allow their dogs to swim in the pond as it is very detrimental to the pond.  Thank you.

NEW Village Shop in Hughenden Valley!

It was with great excitement that the new Village Shop in Hughenden Valley finally opened its doors on 16th May 2009.  Since the closure of the shop in Coombe Lane, residents of the Hughenden Ward have had to travel to access local amenties.  The local community worked together to finally bring a shop back to Hughenden Valley and the Council were delighted to support this venture by agreeing a grant.

The shop was officially opened by BBC weatherman Bill Giles and it was great to see so many local residents support this new venture.  Business so far has been encouraging and this is a great addition to the village.

Climbing Wall Success!

Hughenden Parish Council were delighted to welcome over 300 children, teenagers and adults to our Climb Wall evenings.  The wall visited each ward which was very popular as it ensured that everyone was able to have a go!

It was lovely to see the children tackle the different challenging routes the wall had to offer and some discovered hidden climbing talents!

The wall formed part of Hughenden Parish Council's ongoing commitment to the youth provision within its parish.