News

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

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**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.