The EWR Consortium has commissioned from consultants, Atkins, a costed outline design of the infrastructure required to run passenger services on the EWR Western Section, linking Oxford and Aylesbury with Milton Keynes and Bedford. The route could also from part of a longer distance cross-country service. Existing waste trains to Calvert will continue to run and the route might also be used by a freight service.
For the benefit of those of you who do not already have a copy, I shall attach an updated version of the leaflet about the scheme that I sent you in June. The most notable change is to the timetable. Construction is now expected to start in 2014 and services in 2016. Contrary to my expectation, the June version of the leaflet was not sent to Parish Councils along the route.
Atkins have been undertaking surveys along the route and they are also investigating arrangements for the stations proposed at Winslow and Newton Longville. At Winslow, a site was reserved in the Aylesbury Vale District Local Plan and Atkins’ investigations will include drilling a borehole there. The LDF Core Strategy proposes that the other station should be provided at the Salden Chase Strategic Development Area.
Atkins expect to complete the bulk of their technical work by December. The balance of their work will include notably working up the business case for the scheme and that work should be completed within the following 3 months.
Chiltern Railways’ Evergreen 3 project is a proposal to improve the route between Oxford and Bicester Town to allow them to provide an Oxford-Marylebone passenger service with effect from 2013. They hope to receive the Department for Transport’s approval for the expenditure in December. Evergreen 3 would deliver most of EWR’s requirements for the Oxford-Bicester section. Its implementation would reduce the cost of the EWR Western Section, in round terms from £250m to £200m.
The Secretary of State for Transport, Lord Adonis, has expressed support for the EWR Western Section scheme in principle.
Funding is a critically important issue that is outstanding. The Regional Transport Board has been leading on the exploration of funding options. Lord Adonis’s positive reaction indicates acceptance of the wider strategic benefits of the scheme and it should, therefore, be possible to secure some funding from the national budget. However, in view of the importance of the scheme to the delivery of the South East Plan (SEP) and Regional Economic Strategy, it is likely that some funding will also be expected at regional level and from Local Planning Authorities on the route where there will be a direct benefit.
Insofar as Aylesbury Vale District is concerned, the mechanism for securing contributions from development and the amount of such contributions will be addressed in the LDF Core Strategy, Delivery Policies Development Planning Document and Supplementary Planning Documents. However, we have always made it clear that we do not expect funding to be raised by making additional allocations for development over and above those proposed in the LDF to accord with the requirements in the SEP.
Claydon House
Claydon House Gardens
Thursday 26 November 2009
Saturday 14 November 2009
Aylesbury Christmas Lights switch-on 19th Nov
Christmas Lights switch on
Come along to the Christmas lights switch on in Aylesbury Market Square on 19th November from 5pm to get your free home safety pack, which includes a property marking kit, light timer switch and energy efficient light bulb.
Aylesbury will light up for the Christmas period next Thursday night.
Starting at 5.30pm on Thursday November 19 there will be a packed evening of activities and entertainment in Kingsbury and Market Square to officially start the festive season in the town centre.
There will be a fireworks display with the lights being switched on at 6.50pm followed by free musical entertainment.
It will also be the first Thursday of the Christmas season that shops will observe the late shopping opening hours. They will stay open until 8pm.
Come along to the Christmas lights switch on in Aylesbury Market Square on 19th November from 5pm to get your free home safety pack, which includes a property marking kit, light timer switch and energy efficient light bulb.
Aylesbury will light up for the Christmas period next Thursday night.
Starting at 5.30pm on Thursday November 19 there will be a packed evening of activities and entertainment in Kingsbury and Market Square to officially start the festive season in the town centre.
There will be a fireworks display with the lights being switched on at 6.50pm followed by free musical entertainment.
It will also be the first Thursday of the Christmas season that shops will observe the late shopping opening hours. They will stay open until 8pm.
Bucks Home Choice
Prior to May 2009, anyone interested in applying to the District Council for a rented home, including homes on rural exception schemes, were asked to complete forms and go on the housing register.
In May 2009, the housing register as we knew it became obsolete and a new initiative was rolled out across the county, called Bucks Home Choice (BHC).
Bucks Home Choice is the new way of allocating council and housing association tenancies in Aylesbury Vale, Chiltern, South Bucks and Wycombe.
Applicants looking for a tenancy or existing tenants who want to transfer will now have chance to see what properties are available - see website www.buckshomchoice.gov.uk.
It is very important that all parishoners in villages where there is a rural exception scheme, or one planned for the future are aware of BHC and the fact they must register and express an interest to be considered for a rented property.
Use website or call AVDC Customer Service Centre on 01296 585197 or 01296 585168 as necessary.
In May 2009, the housing register as we knew it became obsolete and a new initiative was rolled out across the county, called Bucks Home Choice (BHC).
Bucks Home Choice is the new way of allocating council and housing association tenancies in Aylesbury Vale, Chiltern, South Bucks and Wycombe.
Applicants looking for a tenancy or existing tenants who want to transfer will now have chance to see what properties are available - see website www.buckshomchoice.gov.uk.
It is very important that all parishoners in villages where there is a rural exception scheme, or one planned for the future are aware of BHC and the fact they must register and express an interest to be considered for a rented property.
Use website or call AVDC Customer Service Centre on 01296 585197 or 01296 585168 as necessary.
Local businesses benefit from AVDC grants
More and more businesses are being given a helping hand with grants from Aylesbury Vale District Council.
The AVDC business grants panel recently awarded four grants to new and existing businesses, a total amount of £16,000. It brings the grand total for 2009 to £22,000 of grants from the council for local firms.
The grant scheme is just one of the ways in which AVDC is helping local businesses during the recession.
Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: “We are very keen as a council to support local businesses and the grants scheme has been an excellent way of encouraging new enterprise. A huge range of local businesses have already benefited from it and feedback from them has been very positive. The scheme forms part of a package of measures we have put in place to help the economy during the recession.”
Next month marks the fifth anniversary of the scheme’s launch, and the council has provided grant assistance and support to more than 60 businesses across the Vale, totalling almost £240,000. The grants of £3,000 to £5,000 have been used to support all kinds of growth in the companies, ranging from buying new machinery, expanding premises, marketing and promotion, and training staff.
The businesses who are the latest to benefit from the scheme are Baker Sales and Lettings, Skill Centre UK LLP, Teknomat UK Ltd and Caremark.
Baker Sales and Lettings, a newly formed sales and lettings agency located in Kingfisher Exchange, Aylesbury, was awarded a £3,000 grant towards staff training.
Skill Centre UK LLP provides vocational training for 13 to 16 year-olds who have emotional, behavioural and social problems. The company received a grant of £5,000 towards a mini-bus which will enable them to take students to and from courses without relying on external organisations.
Teknomat UK Ltd, who sell imported coffee, coffee machines and related supplies, received a £5,000 grant towards a new van and infrastructure improvements, which will allow them to widen their distribution channel opportunities.
Caremark provides care services to the elderly, disabled, people with learning difficulties and those recovering from hospital treatment within their own home. The business was awarded a grant of £3,000 towards new equipment including computers and printers.
Find out more about the AVDC business grant scheme at www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/business or call 01296 585657.
The AVDC business grants panel recently awarded four grants to new and existing businesses, a total amount of £16,000. It brings the grand total for 2009 to £22,000 of grants from the council for local firms.
The grant scheme is just one of the ways in which AVDC is helping local businesses during the recession.
Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: “We are very keen as a council to support local businesses and the grants scheme has been an excellent way of encouraging new enterprise. A huge range of local businesses have already benefited from it and feedback from them has been very positive. The scheme forms part of a package of measures we have put in place to help the economy during the recession.”
Next month marks the fifth anniversary of the scheme’s launch, and the council has provided grant assistance and support to more than 60 businesses across the Vale, totalling almost £240,000. The grants of £3,000 to £5,000 have been used to support all kinds of growth in the companies, ranging from buying new machinery, expanding premises, marketing and promotion, and training staff.
The businesses who are the latest to benefit from the scheme are Baker Sales and Lettings, Skill Centre UK LLP, Teknomat UK Ltd and Caremark.
Baker Sales and Lettings, a newly formed sales and lettings agency located in Kingfisher Exchange, Aylesbury, was awarded a £3,000 grant towards staff training.
Skill Centre UK LLP provides vocational training for 13 to 16 year-olds who have emotional, behavioural and social problems. The company received a grant of £5,000 towards a mini-bus which will enable them to take students to and from courses without relying on external organisations.
Teknomat UK Ltd, who sell imported coffee, coffee machines and related supplies, received a £5,000 grant towards a new van and infrastructure improvements, which will allow them to widen their distribution channel opportunities.
Caremark provides care services to the elderly, disabled, people with learning difficulties and those recovering from hospital treatment within their own home. The business was awarded a grant of £3,000 towards new equipment including computers and printers.
Find out more about the AVDC business grant scheme at www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/business or call 01296 585657.
Thursday 12 November 2009
News from our local PCSO
Speeding
The Safer Roads and Neighbourhood policing teams have started speed enforcement again – this time with a difference. ANPR equipment is also used. As a result at a
session in Newton Longville 19 drivers ticketed for speeding. Lorries were also stopped. In sessions at Padbury, Steeple Claydon and Twyford 22 drivers were
processed for speeding, 81% of which were local, and two cars were seized
for being driven without insurance/MOT.
Local crime analysis
The crime figures for Buckingham South remain stable, which is good news.
The only glitch is acquisitive crime has increased slightly.
Several main players have been arrested. However, TVP are increasing patrols in
known areas but is still encouraging the use of property marking, not leaving
property in vehicles, cleaning marks from windscreens so it is not obvious that you use a sat nav and generally being security aware.
Halloween – more good news
31 October passed without incident in Bucks South. Patrols were increased to take account of any potential increased activity in neighbourhoods.
Winter considerations
Driving with fog lights on under normal driving conditions is not ‘cool’, in fact it is illegal. These lights are simply too bright for normal driving conditions. They dazzle and will cause accidents.
Please check that your lights are not switch on and are only used in foggy conditions where visibility is approx. 100 metres or less.
It is also timely to remind drivers not to leave their cars running unattended while windscreens defrost.
Apart from being a clear invitation to a thief (and your insurance company will not cover you) it is also illegal. Also check that all your lights are working
and your wipers are in good working order. Make sure you have the correct levels of anti-freeze too!!
PCSO of the Year – Buckinghamshire
As you all know, TVP has awarded PSCO Wendy Taylor with the above accolade and
she attended the Awards Dinner in October to collect it. It highlighted the
extraordinary things that ordinary people achieved for the good of their communities
– to be part of that was a real honour.
Dog watch
Parish Councils are being approached again by the Dog Warden to allocate areas where the delegated powers will be in force to enable those with these powers to issue tickets to irresponsible dog owners, be it for dog fouling, livestock worrying, etc.
Parish Councils please be aware and respond accordingly so enforcement measures can proceed.
The Safer Roads and Neighbourhood policing teams have started speed enforcement again – this time with a difference. ANPR equipment is also used. As a result at a
session in Newton Longville 19 drivers ticketed for speeding. Lorries were also stopped. In sessions at Padbury, Steeple Claydon and Twyford 22 drivers were
processed for speeding, 81% of which were local, and two cars were seized
for being driven without insurance/MOT.
Local crime analysis
The crime figures for Buckingham South remain stable, which is good news.
The only glitch is acquisitive crime has increased slightly.
Several main players have been arrested. However, TVP are increasing patrols in
known areas but is still encouraging the use of property marking, not leaving
property in vehicles, cleaning marks from windscreens so it is not obvious that you use a sat nav and generally being security aware.
Halloween – more good news
31 October passed without incident in Bucks South. Patrols were increased to take account of any potential increased activity in neighbourhoods.
Winter considerations
Driving with fog lights on under normal driving conditions is not ‘cool’, in fact it is illegal. These lights are simply too bright for normal driving conditions. They dazzle and will cause accidents.
Please check that your lights are not switch on and are only used in foggy conditions where visibility is approx. 100 metres or less.
It is also timely to remind drivers not to leave their cars running unattended while windscreens defrost.
Apart from being a clear invitation to a thief (and your insurance company will not cover you) it is also illegal. Also check that all your lights are working
and your wipers are in good working order. Make sure you have the correct levels of anti-freeze too!!
PCSO of the Year – Buckinghamshire
As you all know, TVP has awarded PSCO Wendy Taylor with the above accolade and
she attended the Awards Dinner in October to collect it. It highlighted the
extraordinary things that ordinary people achieved for the good of their communities
– to be part of that was a real honour.
Dog watch
Parish Councils are being approached again by the Dog Warden to allocate areas where the delegated powers will be in force to enable those with these powers to issue tickets to irresponsible dog owners, be it for dog fouling, livestock worrying, etc.
Parish Councils please be aware and respond accordingly so enforcement measures can proceed.
AVDC Chief Executive to visit the Claydons
The Chief Executive of Aylesbury Vale District Council, Andrew Grant, will be visiting all three parishes in the Claydons on Monday 30th November on a fact-finding visit. He will spend time with all three parish councils to find out about the important issues and concerns which they are dealing with, and also spend time visitng some of the local landmarks, such as the Recreation Ground, Library and Vicarage Orchard in Steeple Claydon. The timetable for his visit is:
2.30 pm Steeple Claydon
4.00 Middle Claydon
5.00 East Claydon
2.30 pm Steeple Claydon
4.00 Middle Claydon
5.00 East Claydon
Wren Grant for Recreation Ground secured
Many congratulations to Steeple Claydon Parish Council for securing a grant of
£ 9,000 from WREN (the operators of the Calvert landfill site) in order to replace the fence around the children's playgound in the corner of the Recreation Ground. The current fence is badly damaged in places.
Saturday 17 October 2009
AVDC launches ground breaking joint venture for commercial property portfolio
Aylesbury Vale District Council and the Akeman Partnership have signed an agreement to establish a ground-breaking commercial property joint venture to be known as Aylesbury Vale Estates (AVE).
The innovative move will ensure that AVDC’s portfolio of industrial units, shops and offices meets the needs of modern businesses and continues to provide an income stream which can then be used to support important services.
As part of the joint venture, which has a minimum life of 20 years, AVDC has transferred ownership of all of its commercial property assets to AVE. The properties will now be managed, improved and developed by the joint venture, with an income coming to the council.
AVDC and the Akeman Partnership will control AVE on a 50/50 basis, with the council represented on the board of the joint venture and continuing to be involved in the operation of the portfolio at a strategic level.
AVDC chose the Akeman Partnership following a thorough procurement process that followed the regulations set out by the European Union. The council was advised throughout the procurement process by consultants Drivers Jonas.
Tenants have been informed of the initiative.
The council has around 250 commercial and tenanted premises in the district, including small industrial units, shops and office accommodation. The property is mainly occupied by business tenants ranging from local firms to international companies.
The rent paid by business tenants is an important income stream which has helped cover the cost of council services for some time now. A key factor in the council’s decision to take this project forward was to maintain this valuable source of additional income to support its services.
Councillor Michael Edmonds, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “Offering good quality business property acts as a catalyst for growth which is vital for Aylesbury Vale given that we need to create at least 21,500 new jobs between now and 2026. We want to improve the availability and quality of our commercial properties so that businesses can expand in or relocate to Aylesbury Vale. Joining forces with the Akeman Partnership is our best opportunity to do this.”
Councillor Edmonds added: “I would like to thank staff, especially our asset management, legal and financial teams, and my fellow councillors for their help and support. I would also like to pay tribute to our advisors Drivers Jonas, Pinsent Masons and Grant Thornton for their part in this process. This is a big step for AVDC to take but I’m sure it is the right one.”
Graham Cole of Guildhouse UK, speaking on behalf of the Akeman Partnership, said: “We are delighted to have established this innovative joint venture with the council. We look forward to working with the council and the tenants of the commercial property portfolio on this pioneering initiative.”
Pinsent Masons lawyers acted for AVDC in the transaction, while the Akeman Partnership was represented by Taylor Wessing.
The innovative move will ensure that AVDC’s portfolio of industrial units, shops and offices meets the needs of modern businesses and continues to provide an income stream which can then be used to support important services.
As part of the joint venture, which has a minimum life of 20 years, AVDC has transferred ownership of all of its commercial property assets to AVE. The properties will now be managed, improved and developed by the joint venture, with an income coming to the council.
AVDC and the Akeman Partnership will control AVE on a 50/50 basis, with the council represented on the board of the joint venture and continuing to be involved in the operation of the portfolio at a strategic level.
AVDC chose the Akeman Partnership following a thorough procurement process that followed the regulations set out by the European Union. The council was advised throughout the procurement process by consultants Drivers Jonas.
Tenants have been informed of the initiative.
The council has around 250 commercial and tenanted premises in the district, including small industrial units, shops and office accommodation. The property is mainly occupied by business tenants ranging from local firms to international companies.
The rent paid by business tenants is an important income stream which has helped cover the cost of council services for some time now. A key factor in the council’s decision to take this project forward was to maintain this valuable source of additional income to support its services.
Councillor Michael Edmonds, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “Offering good quality business property acts as a catalyst for growth which is vital for Aylesbury Vale given that we need to create at least 21,500 new jobs between now and 2026. We want to improve the availability and quality of our commercial properties so that businesses can expand in or relocate to Aylesbury Vale. Joining forces with the Akeman Partnership is our best opportunity to do this.”
Councillor Edmonds added: “I would like to thank staff, especially our asset management, legal and financial teams, and my fellow councillors for their help and support. I would also like to pay tribute to our advisors Drivers Jonas, Pinsent Masons and Grant Thornton for their part in this process. This is a big step for AVDC to take but I’m sure it is the right one.”
Graham Cole of Guildhouse UK, speaking on behalf of the Akeman Partnership, said: “We are delighted to have established this innovative joint venture with the council. We look forward to working with the council and the tenants of the commercial property portfolio on this pioneering initiative.”
Pinsent Masons lawyers acted for AVDC in the transaction, while the Akeman Partnership was represented by Taylor Wessing.
Free Christmas parking in Aylesbury again thanks to AVDC
This festive season, shoppers looking for that special gift in Aylesbury town centre will be able to park for free every Saturday in the run up to Christmas.
Free parking will also be available for late night shoppers every Thursday from 19 November until Christmas Eve, starting at 4pm.
This scheme, which aims to help town centre businesses by increasing footfall in the vital Christmas period, is an extension of the limited free parking made available last year, which didn’t include free Thursday evening parking.
Councillor Kevin McPartland, Cabinet Member for Civic Amenities at AVDC, said: “We’re really hoping that the free Christmas parking initiative will encourage even more shoppers than last year, especially with the addition of six nights of free parking to tie in with late night shopping. This is a common sense move which benefits everyone. With businesses and shoppers across the Vale still feeling the pinch of the current financial climate, this is an early parking concession that helps both shoppers and businesses.”
The free parking scheme applies to every Aylesbury town centre car park run by AVDC. The only exception is Aqua Vale where a charge will still be made but will be refunded on use of the facilities and Hale Street Car Park where parking will be free, but limited to one hour stays.
Applicable dates are:
• Saturday 5, 12 and 19 December
• Thursday 19 and 26 November, 3, 10, 17 and 24 December from 4pm.
AVDC opens new Enterprise and Innovation Centre in Aylesbury
A state-of-the-art enterprise and innovation centre in Aylesbury designed to create a hub of entrepreneurial activity was officially launched on 7 October.
The 4,000 sq ft centre in Gatehouse Way has been created by Aylesbury Vale District Council with support from the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).
It will provide new and developing businesses, with under 120 staff, free support and advice while also offering office and desk space on flexible terms and other facilities such as meeting rooms, telephone answering and a business post address service.
The centre, managed by Hot Office Business Centres, is being funded by AVDC for a four-year trial period. A further 2,000 sq ft of office space could be made available if the centre is fully occupied within the first two years of its operation.
Over the next two years an estimated 200 business will be assisted to progress to second stage growth via the support initiatives operated at the new centre.
Councillor Michael Edmonds, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development at AVDC, said: “The Aylesbury Enterprise and Innovation Centre is playing a vital role in our plans for the district’s successful growth. New business start-ups represent an important segment in the 21,500 new jobs that we need to create between now and 2026. These new businesses will be able to service the needs of larger firms that we hope to attract and, as they grow, they will offer new employment opportunities for many more people.”
Max Campbell, Managing Director of the Aylesbury Enterprise and Innovation Centre, said: “The centre is dedicated to helping new businesses launch, assisting local entrepreneurs to evolve their ideas and supporting existing businesses with their ongoing growth. We look forward to meeting the entrepreneurs of Aylesbury over the coming year.”
Businesses interested in using the centre can call 01296 318150 or visit the website at www.aeicentre.com
Monday 5 October 2009
Conservative Employment policy
Conservative Party Conference, Manchester. Monday 5th- Thurs 8th October
The Conservative party conference has only been in full swing for less than a day, but already they have had a lot to say about the current job market. In their section today entitled 'Get Britain Working' they discussed the following:
'local unemployment sows the seeds for many social problems'
Sayeeda Warsi (Shadow Minister for Community Cohesion and Social Action.)
Job Clubs. 50 parts of the UK have already set up 'job clubs' inspired by the Conservative party. These are purely driven by local people to respond to daily local needs, to tackle community unemployment and to help people get back into work. This involves mentoring, improving job finding skills, CV surgeries, and giving those people who find themselves out of work someone to talk to. These are community based projects that are happening now to tackle unemployment.
A new Conservative government would establish a network of 'work clubs' based on the job clubs that are already formed. They will be places to meet others and exchange skills, help with voluntary work and to be used to access mutual support. They would be created as a franchise model so that they can be easily set up by local communities. The Conservatives know that 'local people really want to be part of the solution'.
Tories would like to implement a new nationwide volunteering project, to support communities affected by the economic downturn. 'Work Together' would allow you to see the ways in which you can help and volunteer in your local area. This not only helps support local communities, but also offers the unemployed a chance to gain new skills whilst they are looking for work. The Conservatives have set up a website to support their project: http://www.conservatives.com/getbritainworking/ to support people looking for work, which lists over 1 million positions for voluntary work in the UK.
George Osborne- Shadow Chancellor
National Insurance contributions will be abolished for the first ten employees employed in the first year of any new business founded under a new Conservative government. This funded tax cut has been proposed in a bid to create more job opportunities in small businesses and to boost enterprise.
The tax break will enable the Tories to create 60,000 new jobs over two years.
The Tories are the party of jobs while Labour is the party of mass unemployment.
Ken Clarke- Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills
'Small companies could employ a lot more people if we create the right climate for them'
The Conservatives want to encourage people with a desire to work for themselves- people should be supported, and moving people from unemployment to self employment should be a priority, which they believe doesn't exist in the Labour party.
David Cameron- Leader of the Opposition
'We will not let Britain down'
People on incapacity benefit need to be assessed and those who can work need to be encouraged to get back into work with the right help and training. 'If you can work, you should work... we will help you to work.'
Focusing on a bold shake-up of the Welfare system.
Cameron wants to replace the current Flexible New Deal and implement more personalised help and training, which will extend to people who have been unemployed for over 6 months.
Today is the opening day of the Conservative conference in Manchester. A key theme was how to help the unemployed during the recession and help people get back into work.
The Conservative party conference has only been in full swing for less than a day, but already they have had a lot to say about the current job market. In their section today entitled 'Get Britain Working' they discussed the following:
'local unemployment sows the seeds for many social problems'
Sayeeda Warsi (Shadow Minister for Community Cohesion and Social Action.)
Job Clubs. 50 parts of the UK have already set up 'job clubs' inspired by the Conservative party. These are purely driven by local people to respond to daily local needs, to tackle community unemployment and to help people get back into work. This involves mentoring, improving job finding skills, CV surgeries, and giving those people who find themselves out of work someone to talk to. These are community based projects that are happening now to tackle unemployment.
A new Conservative government would establish a network of 'work clubs' based on the job clubs that are already formed. They will be places to meet others and exchange skills, help with voluntary work and to be used to access mutual support. They would be created as a franchise model so that they can be easily set up by local communities. The Conservatives know that 'local people really want to be part of the solution'.
Tories would like to implement a new nationwide volunteering project, to support communities affected by the economic downturn. 'Work Together' would allow you to see the ways in which you can help and volunteer in your local area. This not only helps support local communities, but also offers the unemployed a chance to gain new skills whilst they are looking for work. The Conservatives have set up a website to support their project: http://www.conservatives.com/getbritainworking/ to support people looking for work, which lists over 1 million positions for voluntary work in the UK.
George Osborne- Shadow Chancellor
National Insurance contributions will be abolished for the first ten employees employed in the first year of any new business founded under a new Conservative government. This funded tax cut has been proposed in a bid to create more job opportunities in small businesses and to boost enterprise.
The tax break will enable the Tories to create 60,000 new jobs over two years.
The Tories are the party of jobs while Labour is the party of mass unemployment.
Ken Clarke- Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills
'Small companies could employ a lot more people if we create the right climate for them'
The Conservatives want to encourage people with a desire to work for themselves- people should be supported, and moving people from unemployment to self employment should be a priority, which they believe doesn't exist in the Labour party.
David Cameron- Leader of the Opposition
'We will not let Britain down'
People on incapacity benefit need to be assessed and those who can work need to be encouraged to get back into work with the right help and training. 'If you can work, you should work... we will help you to work.'
Focusing on a bold shake-up of the Welfare system.
Cameron wants to replace the current Flexible New Deal and implement more personalised help and training, which will extend to people who have been unemployed for over 6 months.
Today is the opening day of the Conservative conference in Manchester. A key theme was how to help the unemployed during the recession and help people get back into work.
Monday 14 September 2009
Bedfordshire site proposed for new incinerator
Bucks County Council have just announced that the Stewartby site in Bedfordshire has been selected for the new Energy from Waste incinerator.
This is great news, as it removes the threat from the site at Edgcott near Calvert which was the alternative location.
Congratulations to SAVI and all who campaigned so hard against the Edgcott proposal.
Both Steeple Claydon and East Claydon parish councils passed resolutions opposing the incinerator.
Martin Tett of Bucks County Council has written:
I am writing to advise you that the county council’s Cabinet today selected Covanta Energy as the preferred bidder to treat the county’s residual waste for the next 25 years. The American-owned company proposes to build and operate an energy from waste (EfW) and materials recovery facility at Rookery South Pit near Stewartby, Bedfordshire. Covanta already operates 40 EfW plants in the United States.
As you may recall from earlier correspondence about the project, two final bidders were being considered: Covanta Energy and Waste Recycling Group (WRG). Both bids were of high quality and in terms of overall technology relatively similar – modern incineration using moving grate technology.
Following evaluation against pre-agreed weighted criteria, Covanta was selected on a first-past-the-post, points basis, having achieved a score 6.05% higher than WRG. The decision means WRG with its proposed Calvert site has been deselected. WRG will continue to operate the Calvert landfill site.
Initially, Covanta’s proposed facility will convert some 390,000 tonnes of waste a year into energy. Ultimately, the company proposes to treat 585,000 tonnes of waste a year, producing enough green electricity to power around 82,500 homes and the potential to supply surplus heat to nearby developments. Buckinghamshire’s household waste contract will represent around a quarter of the waste the final facility will treat. Importantly, the amount will reduce steadily as stretching recycling and composting targets are achieved. We currently recycle 43% of waste and are aiming for 60% by 2025.
Driving the need for change are EU and UK targets to cut greenhouse gases by reducing our dependence on landfill, a major producer of such gases. To achieve this objective, like all county councils, Buckinghamshire faces landfill tax rises year on year and potential fines. Last year (2008/09) landfill taxes cost the county £4.5 million.
Due to the proposed plant’s power-generating capacity, Covanta’s planning application will be decided by Government under Section 36 of the Electricity Act in consultation with regulatory authorities and the local community. The application is expected to be made later this year and the facility is expected to be running by 2014 subject to consent being obtained.
This is great news, as it removes the threat from the site at Edgcott near Calvert which was the alternative location.
Congratulations to SAVI and all who campaigned so hard against the Edgcott proposal.
Both Steeple Claydon and East Claydon parish councils passed resolutions opposing the incinerator.
Martin Tett of Bucks County Council has written:
I am writing to advise you that the county council’s Cabinet today selected Covanta Energy as the preferred bidder to treat the county’s residual waste for the next 25 years. The American-owned company proposes to build and operate an energy from waste (EfW) and materials recovery facility at Rookery South Pit near Stewartby, Bedfordshire. Covanta already operates 40 EfW plants in the United States.
As you may recall from earlier correspondence about the project, two final bidders were being considered: Covanta Energy and Waste Recycling Group (WRG). Both bids were of high quality and in terms of overall technology relatively similar – modern incineration using moving grate technology.
Following evaluation against pre-agreed weighted criteria, Covanta was selected on a first-past-the-post, points basis, having achieved a score 6.05% higher than WRG. The decision means WRG with its proposed Calvert site has been deselected. WRG will continue to operate the Calvert landfill site.
Initially, Covanta’s proposed facility will convert some 390,000 tonnes of waste a year into energy. Ultimately, the company proposes to treat 585,000 tonnes of waste a year, producing enough green electricity to power around 82,500 homes and the potential to supply surplus heat to nearby developments. Buckinghamshire’s household waste contract will represent around a quarter of the waste the final facility will treat. Importantly, the amount will reduce steadily as stretching recycling and composting targets are achieved. We currently recycle 43% of waste and are aiming for 60% by 2025.
Driving the need for change are EU and UK targets to cut greenhouse gases by reducing our dependence on landfill, a major producer of such gases. To achieve this objective, like all county councils, Buckinghamshire faces landfill tax rises year on year and potential fines. Last year (2008/09) landfill taxes cost the county £4.5 million.
Due to the proposed plant’s power-generating capacity, Covanta’s planning application will be decided by Government under Section 36 of the Electricity Act in consultation with regulatory authorities and the local community. The application is expected to be made later this year and the facility is expected to be running by 2014 subject to consent being obtained.
Monday 7 September 2009
AVDC's plan for economic growth
Ten Point Plan for the economic growth of Aylesbury Vale
AVDC's plan for economic growth has recently led to a refresh of the economic development strategy for the Vale. A ten point plan for action in this year includes :
- The opening of the Aylesbury Enterprise and Innovation Centre. The centre will provide incubation space to start-up and embryonic businesses with an in-house business advisory support service.
- Support for the development of the National Enterprise Academy in the Vale
Activity and promotion to help attract more new larger businesses to invest in the Vale
- Launching the Angels for Bucks private equity finance scheme and
- Preparing a plan for improvements to Broadband services
We are also working with the sixty businesses that have been awarded an AVDC business grant to create a networking club. This will allow the opportunity for them to meet one another, discuss how they can develop and grow their businesses and identify any further areas of support. The first of these events will be held in the Autumn.
Over the next few months, AVDC will be engaging further with businesses in order to provide support and involve them in the future of Aylesbury Vale's economy.
For further information on the support provided by AVDC to businesses, or for any other queries please contact the economic development team on 01296 585657, email economicdevelopment@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk or visit the website www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/business/economic-development-service/economic-development-strategy-key-priorities
AVDC's plan for economic growth has recently led to a refresh of the economic development strategy for the Vale. A ten point plan for action in this year includes :
- The opening of the Aylesbury Enterprise and Innovation Centre. The centre will provide incubation space to start-up and embryonic businesses with an in-house business advisory support service.
- Support for the development of the National Enterprise Academy in the Vale
Activity and promotion to help attract more new larger businesses to invest in the Vale
- Launching the Angels for Bucks private equity finance scheme and
- Preparing a plan for improvements to Broadband services
We are also working with the sixty businesses that have been awarded an AVDC business grant to create a networking club. This will allow the opportunity for them to meet one another, discuss how they can develop and grow their businesses and identify any further areas of support. The first of these events will be held in the Autumn.
Over the next few months, AVDC will be engaging further with businesses in order to provide support and involve them in the future of Aylesbury Vale's economy.
For further information on the support provided by AVDC to businesses, or for any other queries please contact the economic development team on 01296 585657, email economicdevelopment@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk or visit the website www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/business/economic-development-service/economic-development-strategy-key-priorities
AVDC ladder safety initiative
Council backs ladder safety campaign
Aylesbury Vale District Council is backing a national campaign which gives companies the opportunity to part-exchange broken, damaged or bent ladders for new ones.
The council is working in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to highlight the potential dangers of using a substandard ladder.
Falls from height continue to be the main cause of death in the workplace and one of the main causes of serious injury. Around a third are as a result of a fall from a ladder with the main causes being ladders breaking, the user slipping from the ladder or the ladder wobbling.
A ladder exchange has been organised in Buckinghamshire where old ladders can be traded in for a discount on a new set of ladders. Any business wanting to exchange their ladder can take it into the local branches of HSS Hire and Speedy Hire.
The initiative runs from 1 September until the end of December. There are some other companies participating and their details can be found at www.hse.gov.uk
Councillor Sir Beville Stanier, Cabinet Member for Environment and Health at AVDC, said: “All too often, ladder safety is taken for granted and that’s when accidents happen. Our message is that by taking simple precautions, accidents with ladders can be avoided.
“I would urge any local businesses to take advantage of this ladder exchange and make sure the equipment they use is safe, after all someone’s life could depend on it.”
For health and safety at work advice contact the environmental health team on 01296 585065 or email envhealth@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk
Aylesbury Vale District Council is backing a national campaign which gives companies the opportunity to part-exchange broken, damaged or bent ladders for new ones.
The council is working in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to highlight the potential dangers of using a substandard ladder.
Falls from height continue to be the main cause of death in the workplace and one of the main causes of serious injury. Around a third are as a result of a fall from a ladder with the main causes being ladders breaking, the user slipping from the ladder or the ladder wobbling.
A ladder exchange has been organised in Buckinghamshire where old ladders can be traded in for a discount on a new set of ladders. Any business wanting to exchange their ladder can take it into the local branches of HSS Hire and Speedy Hire.
The initiative runs from 1 September until the end of December. There are some other companies participating and their details can be found at www.hse.gov.uk
Councillor Sir Beville Stanier, Cabinet Member for Environment and Health at AVDC, said: “All too often, ladder safety is taken for granted and that’s when accidents happen. Our message is that by taking simple precautions, accidents with ladders can be avoided.
“I would urge any local businesses to take advantage of this ladder exchange and make sure the equipment they use is safe, after all someone’s life could depend on it.”
For health and safety at work advice contact the environmental health team on 01296 585065 or email envhealth@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk
Winslow's New Farmers' Market
Winslow’s new Farmers Market was officially opened on Sunday 6th September.
Located in Winslow’s historic Market Square the market will feature produce grown or made within a thirty-mile radius, including rare breed meat, locally grown vegetables, home-made preserves and local honey.
It will run regularly on the 1st Sunday of the month between 11am and 2pm,
with free car parking a short walk from the Market Square.
The market is a joint venture between Winslow Town Council and Winslow Chamber of Trade and has benefited from a substantial grant from LEADER programme run by The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) and funded by Defra and the EU.
Support Winslow Market and support your local farmers.
Located in Winslow’s historic Market Square the market will feature produce grown or made within a thirty-mile radius, including rare breed meat, locally grown vegetables, home-made preserves and local honey.
It will run regularly on the 1st Sunday of the month between 11am and 2pm,
with free car parking a short walk from the Market Square.
The market is a joint venture between Winslow Town Council and Winslow Chamber of Trade and has benefited from a substantial grant from LEADER programme run by The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) and funded by Defra and the EU.
Support Winslow Market and support your local farmers.
Road resurfacing in Buckingham Road and Sandholme
I am delighted to see that Bucks County Council has resurfaced the worst bits of Buckingham Road and Sandholme. In the summer Angelina and I spent an evening marking out on a map where all the potholes were together with other committed members of the Parish Council, and subsequently I have been particularly pestering Bucks Highways about the state of the road surface in Sandholme, which was appalling.
I am glad that this persistence seems to have paid off.
I am also glad to see that the road sign to Verney Junction on the road between Sandhill and the Kingsbridge crossroads has also been replaced after several months of waiting.
I am glad that this persistence seems to have paid off.
I am also glad to see that the road sign to Verney Junction on the road between Sandhill and the Kingsbridge crossroads has also been replaced after several months of waiting.
Calvert Incinerator decision 14th September
The decision on the location of the new Energy from Waste incinerator will be made by Bucks County Council cabinet on 14th September.
Last week Steeple Claydon Parish Council passed a motion opposing its location in the site at Edgcott near the existing Calvert landfill site.
I have signed the online petition against the incinerator which has been organised by SAVI - Stop Aylesbury Vale Incineration.
Last week Steeple Claydon Parish Council passed a motion opposing its location in the site at Edgcott near the existing Calvert landfill site.
I have signed the online petition against the incinerator which has been organised by SAVI - Stop Aylesbury Vale Incineration.
Latest news from our excellent local PCSO Wendy Taylor
Speeding
Due to the holiday season not a lot of enforcement work has been carried out in
Buckingham South. However, work using Speedwatch continues, thanks to dedicated
members of your communities being out there, supporting your concerns and doing something about them. The more who help the easier it becomes so please offer to help them.
Countryside Crime
We do encourage any farmers whose sheep are being mauled/killed to report it. We cannot do anything to help if we do not know about it. Incidents have been raised at
the NAG meeting which has highlighted the fact that such incidents are not being reported.
Flytipping
We would also like to know whether you have been on the receiving end of flytipping. The NAG is looking at this element of Countryside Crime. Please continue deal with it
in the usual way but please call PCSO Wendy Taylor as well so we can establish the extent of the problem.
Local crime analysis
The crime figures for Winslow year on year to August 2009 make good reading.
Total crime for July-Aug 2009 against July-Aug 2008 is down 29%. Public Order, Burglary/Theft, and Criminal Damage are all down but sadly Vehicle Crime is up slightly. This category includes theft of, from and damage to vehicles. However, when I put the actual numbers against the percentages for total crime, the incidents for the two months in 2008 amounted to 49 and for the same period in 2009 was 35.
Buckingham South therefore continues to be a low crime area.
Contact details
If you need support from TVP regardingany aspect of security, ring 0845 8
505505 and ask for anyone in your neighbourhood team.
New Winslow Police Office
There will be a Winslow Police Office! The dotted line has been signed and there
will be a police office in the centre of Winslow. All things being equal we hope to
move into the premises in October 2009. This co-incides with the news that the
Dispersal Order will not be extended.
However, with the Neighbourhood Policing Team now resident in the town we are
confident that we will be able to sort out anti-social issues very quickly.
More Good News
Newton Longville has finally got its own dedicated PCSO. Lucy Andrews commenced work in the area on 17 August 2009 and is currently working with PCSO Wendy Taylor to
understand their issues. 50% of her time will be spent in Newton Longville and Gt Horwood, Little Horwood, Nash and Whaddon will share the rest of her time.
Engagement with young people
The Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) are establishing a Youth NAG to run
alongside the main NAG. This is to help us really understand what it is the young
people of the area really want and have a method by which ideas can be put into
actions. The Bucks South NAG are working with Extended Services, Community and
Young Engagement Services, and Connexions to ensure we reach all young people.
PCSO Wendy Taylor is working with Christian Fellowship, Extended Services and
AVYFC to start a Youth Café in Winslow. It is envisaged that this will be free to
all young people and will provide a weekly place to meet. Watch this space for
details.
Congratulations to Wendy and all her hard working team of PCSOs.
Due to the holiday season not a lot of enforcement work has been carried out in
Buckingham South. However, work using Speedwatch continues, thanks to dedicated
members of your communities being out there, supporting your concerns and doing something about them. The more who help the easier it becomes so please offer to help them.
Countryside Crime
We do encourage any farmers whose sheep are being mauled/killed to report it. We cannot do anything to help if we do not know about it. Incidents have been raised at
the NAG meeting which has highlighted the fact that such incidents are not being reported.
Flytipping
We would also like to know whether you have been on the receiving end of flytipping. The NAG is looking at this element of Countryside Crime. Please continue deal with it
in the usual way but please call PCSO Wendy Taylor as well so we can establish the extent of the problem.
Local crime analysis
The crime figures for Winslow year on year to August 2009 make good reading.
Total crime for July-Aug 2009 against July-Aug 2008 is down 29%. Public Order, Burglary/Theft, and Criminal Damage are all down but sadly Vehicle Crime is up slightly. This category includes theft of, from and damage to vehicles. However, when I put the actual numbers against the percentages for total crime, the incidents for the two months in 2008 amounted to 49 and for the same period in 2009 was 35.
Buckingham South therefore continues to be a low crime area.
Contact details
If you need support from TVP regardingany aspect of security, ring 0845 8
505505 and ask for anyone in your neighbourhood team.
New Winslow Police Office
There will be a Winslow Police Office! The dotted line has been signed and there
will be a police office in the centre of Winslow. All things being equal we hope to
move into the premises in October 2009. This co-incides with the news that the
Dispersal Order will not be extended.
However, with the Neighbourhood Policing Team now resident in the town we are
confident that we will be able to sort out anti-social issues very quickly.
More Good News
Newton Longville has finally got its own dedicated PCSO. Lucy Andrews commenced work in the area on 17 August 2009 and is currently working with PCSO Wendy Taylor to
understand their issues. 50% of her time will be spent in Newton Longville and Gt Horwood, Little Horwood, Nash and Whaddon will share the rest of her time.
Engagement with young people
The Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) are establishing a Youth NAG to run
alongside the main NAG. This is to help us really understand what it is the young
people of the area really want and have a method by which ideas can be put into
actions. The Bucks South NAG are working with Extended Services, Community and
Young Engagement Services, and Connexions to ensure we reach all young people.
PCSO Wendy Taylor is working with Christian Fellowship, Extended Services and
AVYFC to start a Youth Café in Winslow. It is envisaged that this will be free to
all young people and will provide a weekly place to meet. Watch this space for
details.
Congratulations to Wendy and all her hard working team of PCSOs.
Tuesday 28 July 2009
Decision on Incinerator in September
The County Council have stated on their website that the decision between the 2 tenders for the new Energy from Waste facility - and thus the decision on whether it will be located near Calvert - will be made in September
Wednesday 15 July 2009
Another successful Village Fair
This year's theme for the Steeple Claydon village fair in the Recreation Ground was 'Toytown' The sports pavilion was transformed into a toy fort complete with soldiers on guard, and a lot of work went into other decorations and costumes to complete the theme. A great afternoon and the weather stayed warm and dry. And I even won a prize in the raffle ! (free tickets to the Leighton Buzzard steam railway). Congratulations and thanks to all who worked so hard to make it a success.
Wednesday 8 July 2009
35th Anniversary of the Centre for Policy Studies
It is 35 years since the Centre for Policy Studies was founded by Sir Keith Joseph and Margaret Thatcher to promote timeless Conservative principles of freedom and individual responsibility.
To celebrate this anniversary, Lord Saatchi has restated some of its key principles as follows:
A rising tide lifts all ships.
A bigger cake means a bigger slice for everyone. But first you have to create the wealth to make the cake bigger.
Caring that works costs cash – the Good Samaritan shows that first you need to money in order to do the good works.
Lower tax is good – for moral reasons, because it means more freedom and choice for individuals; and for economic reasons, because lower tax rates can mean higher tax revenues and more wealth creation.
A smaller state is required; the Government is already far too big.
A man or woman has a right to spend what he or she earns, to own property, to have the State as servant and not as master; that these are the essence of a free country and on that freedom all our other freedoms depend.
People are not numbers in a State computer; they should be seen as individuals.
Everyone has the right to be unequal. No one, thank heaven, is quite like anyone else.
The spirit of envy can destroy; it can never build.
The essence of mankind is the power of choice; the glory and dignity of man is that it is he who chooses, and is not chosen for.
Human dignity resides in independence, individuality, self-determination.
The greatest restriction on the liberty of the citizen is a complete absence of money.
It is wrong that the majority of people in Britain are financially beholden to the State. This makes the State the master; the complicated tax and benefit system the chief instrument of its power.
A paternalist government, based on the benevolence of a ruler who treats his subjects as dependent children, is the greatest conceivable despotism and destroys all freedom.
When a man or a woman stands up for an ideal or strikes out against injustice, people are filled with hope; which is why idealism is more satisfying than pragmatism.
People have been tortured and died for these principles which, so at any rate they believed, were universal and binding on all men; part of the human essence in virtue of which men were rightly called men.
We cannot break these principles, without feeling that we had forfeited all rights to human respect. We could not betray them and face ourselves or others.
See:www.cps.org.uk.
Amen to all the above.
To celebrate this anniversary, Lord Saatchi has restated some of its key principles as follows:
A rising tide lifts all ships.
A bigger cake means a bigger slice for everyone. But first you have to create the wealth to make the cake bigger.
Caring that works costs cash – the Good Samaritan shows that first you need to money in order to do the good works.
Lower tax is good – for moral reasons, because it means more freedom and choice for individuals; and for economic reasons, because lower tax rates can mean higher tax revenues and more wealth creation.
A smaller state is required; the Government is already far too big.
A man or woman has a right to spend what he or she earns, to own property, to have the State as servant and not as master; that these are the essence of a free country and on that freedom all our other freedoms depend.
People are not numbers in a State computer; they should be seen as individuals.
Everyone has the right to be unequal. No one, thank heaven, is quite like anyone else.
The spirit of envy can destroy; it can never build.
The essence of mankind is the power of choice; the glory and dignity of man is that it is he who chooses, and is not chosen for.
Human dignity resides in independence, individuality, self-determination.
The greatest restriction on the liberty of the citizen is a complete absence of money.
It is wrong that the majority of people in Britain are financially beholden to the State. This makes the State the master; the complicated tax and benefit system the chief instrument of its power.
A paternalist government, based on the benevolence of a ruler who treats his subjects as dependent children, is the greatest conceivable despotism and destroys all freedom.
When a man or a woman stands up for an ideal or strikes out against injustice, people are filled with hope; which is why idealism is more satisfying than pragmatism.
People have been tortured and died for these principles which, so at any rate they believed, were universal and binding on all men; part of the human essence in virtue of which men were rightly called men.
We cannot break these principles, without feeling that we had forfeited all rights to human respect. We could not betray them and face ourselves or others.
See:www.cps.org.uk.
Amen to all the above.
Saturday 27 June 2009
John Bercow - Speaker of the House
Many congratulations to our MP John Bercow on being elected as Speaker of the House of Commons. John will continue as MP for Buckingham as well as being Speaker, and will continue to represent us at Westminster. Traditionally, Speakers have been unopposed in General Elections.
Roald Dahl Festival in Aylesbury 4th July
Aylesbury town centre is set to come to a standstill on Saturday 4 July when the town celebrates the work of legendary children’s author Roald Dahl.
This year’s Roald Dahl Festival is themed around Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator and promises to be a spectacular event with a colourful parade of children in costume, and life-sized characters made by local schools with help from professional artists.
The annual event, organised by Aylesbury Vale District Council, starts with a colourful street parade – a culmination of weeks of work by local children who have created costumes and giant animated puppets based on characters and themes from the book.
The parade starts at 11am from the bottom of Market Square and snakes around the town centre accompanied by music and dancers, finishing at the Civic Centre.
Spectators can become even more involved in the parade with character hats and masks available in six designs for £4 from the Civic Centre and the County Museum.
After the parade, there are lots of other Roald Dahl-themed activities to take part in at Aylesbury Library, The King’s Head, Kingsbury, St Mary’s Church and Buckinghamshire County Museum.
The County Museum in Church Street will be hosting a family fun day from 11am to 4pm with free activities and reduced entry to the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery where visitors can explore the magical world of James’ Giant Peach or be whisked away in the Great Glass Elevator.
There will be a fun-filled day for all the family in Aylesbury Library, starting with a special Bounce and Rhyme session for younger children at 10am. The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden will have representatives in the library all day, telling stories and providing craft activities.
Kingsbury will be a thriving area of music, street theatre and children’s art and craft activities led by the council’s play services together with the Queens Park Arts Centre. An information stand will also be available to help you to make the most of your day.
The King’s Head will be running children’s story readings, activities and competitions throughout the day, along with a lucky dip, tombola and raffle. There will also be a free activity day at St Mary’s Church between 11am and 3pm.
Councillor David Thompson, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “Roald Dahl’s books continue to delight and inspire people of all ages. It’s nice for Aylesbury Vale residents to be able to come together each year and remember Dahl and share the magic he created.”
Born in Wales in 1916, of Norwegian parents, Dahl was one of the great children’s authors. He wrote classic books including James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The BFG.
Nineteen years after his death, aged 74 (his grave is in Great Missenden’s St Peter & St Paul’s parish churchyard), Dahl is more popular than ever. His books still sell around a million copies every year and there is even a day of celebration in his honour.
For more information about the festival, visit the council’s website at www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/dahl or call 01296 585210 .
Friday 22 May 2009
New Council for 2009-10
The Annual General Meeting of Aylesbury Vale District Council was held in the Civic Centre, Aylesbury on 13th May.
There are a number of changes in the Council leadership for the forthcoming year: Cllr Janet Blake has been appointed Chairman of the Council in succession to Cllr Netta Glover, and Cllr Neil Blake has been appointed the cabinet member for resources.
I am honoured to report that I have been appointed to succeed Cllr Neil Blake as the Chairman of the council's Audit Committee.
This is an important committee which has the responsibility of approving the annual financial statements on behalf of the council, and also reviewing the risk management and internal audit work. It is a great privilege to have been chosen and I am looking forward to chairing my first meeting on 29th June.
There are a number of changes in the Council leadership for the forthcoming year: Cllr Janet Blake has been appointed Chairman of the Council in succession to Cllr Netta Glover, and Cllr Neil Blake has been appointed the cabinet member for resources.
I am honoured to report that I have been appointed to succeed Cllr Neil Blake as the Chairman of the council's Audit Committee.
This is an important committee which has the responsibility of approving the annual financial statements on behalf of the council, and also reviewing the risk management and internal audit work. It is a great privilege to have been chosen and I am looking forward to chairing my first meeting on 29th June.
Stop Aylesbury Vale Incineration
SAVI is the recently formed pressure group which is campaigning to stop the plans to build a new incinerator at Edgcott near the Calvert landfill site.
There are concerns about the health effects of incinerators, the impact of the additional waste lorries on our country lanes, and the threat to our beautiful historic woodlands such as Finemere Wood and Romer Wood.
Please see their new website via the link below, which contains a petition to Gordon Brown:
http://www.besavi.co.uk/
I made a strong representation to the County Council against the proposal to locate the incinerator at Calvert during the public consultation exercise last year.
There are concerns about the health effects of incinerators, the impact of the additional waste lorries on our country lanes, and the threat to our beautiful historic woodlands such as Finemere Wood and Romer Wood.
Please see their new website via the link below, which contains a petition to Gordon Brown:
http://www.besavi.co.uk/
I made a strong representation to the County Council against the proposal to locate the incinerator at Calvert during the public consultation exercise last year.
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Gordon Brown promises to look at Aylesbury
Full marks to David Lidlington MP who used his question at Prime Minister's Questions today to raise the issue of youth apprenticeships in Aylesbury, and managed to extract a promise from the Prime Minister to look into the situation.
A report on the exchange:
12.20 When youth unemployment is rising, why, asks Tory MP David Lidington, are apprenticeship budgets being cut in his constituency? Brown insists more is being invested in apprenticeships but promises to look at the situation in Aylesbury.
Let's hope that for once he keeps his promise.
Update: in his blog, David explains what prompted him to raise the question:
'In this weeks’ Prime Minister’s Questions I asked Gordon Brown to explain why the Government’s Learning and Skills Council (LSC) had cut the funding that it had promised training providers in Aylesbury for the next academic year. It seems to me that at a time when unemployment is rising amongst young people we need to invest in training to help ensure this country’s future.
Both ATG Training and Aylesbury College have warned me that the LSC’s indicative budgets would mean a big reduction in training. At worst, this could make it impossible for them to continue some courses which apprentices have started in good faith.
I have now written to the Prime Minister, asking that he looks into the particular difficulties that Aylesbury College and ATG Training face.
I will make sure to post an update once I have received a response from the Prime Minister.
To find out more, please click here to view the Hansard from 6th May Westminster Hall debate.'
A report on the exchange:
12.20 When youth unemployment is rising, why, asks Tory MP David Lidington, are apprenticeship budgets being cut in his constituency? Brown insists more is being invested in apprenticeships but promises to look at the situation in Aylesbury.
Let's hope that for once he keeps his promise.
Update: in his blog, David explains what prompted him to raise the question:
'In this weeks’ Prime Minister’s Questions I asked Gordon Brown to explain why the Government’s Learning and Skills Council (LSC) had cut the funding that it had promised training providers in Aylesbury for the next academic year. It seems to me that at a time when unemployment is rising amongst young people we need to invest in training to help ensure this country’s future.
Both ATG Training and Aylesbury College have warned me that the LSC’s indicative budgets would mean a big reduction in training. At worst, this could make it impossible for them to continue some courses which apprentices have started in good faith.
I have now written to the Prime Minister, asking that he looks into the particular difficulties that Aylesbury College and ATG Training face.
I will make sure to post an update once I have received a response from the Prime Minister.
To find out more, please click here to view the Hansard from 6th May Westminster Hall debate.'
Tuesday 21 April 2009
How AVDC is helping local businesses during the recession
At yesterday's Council meeting, the Cabinet member for Economy and Housing, Cllr Michael Edmonds, gave an excellent presentation on the various measures by which AVDC is supporting the local economy during the recession, summarised as follows:
1. Small Business Grants: 50 local businesses have benefited with £ 200,000 paid out as grants
2. Vital Villages Scheme: grants to support village businesses which are a local focal point, such as the village Post Office in Steeple Claydon which received a grant recently
3. Prompt payment of creditors: all local creditors are paid within 10 days to improve cashflow
4. Golden Welcome Scheme: £ 40,000 avaiable for businesses relocating to Aylesbury Vale from the LABGI funds
5. No increase in car parking charges in Aylesbury, and free parking on Sundays and at Christmas to encourage the town centre shops and businesses
6. New Enterprise and Innovation Centre to be opened in Aylesbury soon to give advice to business start-ups and small businesses
7. District Link, the Aylesbury Vale quarterly business newsletter
8. Over 300 business enquiries handled by the Council over the last year
9. New plans for efficient management of the Council's commercial property portfolio through a private sector joint venture partnership
10. Participation in Action Group to improve the appearance of Aylesbury Town Centre
11. £ 100,000 invested in successful public events in Aylesbury town centre over the past year, including the recent activities over the Easter weekend
1. Small Business Grants: 50 local businesses have benefited with £ 200,000 paid out as grants
2. Vital Villages Scheme: grants to support village businesses which are a local focal point, such as the village Post Office in Steeple Claydon which received a grant recently
3. Prompt payment of creditors: all local creditors are paid within 10 days to improve cashflow
4. Golden Welcome Scheme: £ 40,000 avaiable for businesses relocating to Aylesbury Vale from the LABGI funds
5. No increase in car parking charges in Aylesbury, and free parking on Sundays and at Christmas to encourage the town centre shops and businesses
6. New Enterprise and Innovation Centre to be opened in Aylesbury soon to give advice to business start-ups and small businesses
7. District Link, the Aylesbury Vale quarterly business newsletter
8. Over 300 business enquiries handled by the Council over the last year
9. New plans for efficient management of the Council's commercial property portfolio through a private sector joint venture partnership
10. Participation in Action Group to improve the appearance of Aylesbury Town Centre
11. £ 100,000 invested in successful public events in Aylesbury town centre over the past year, including the recent activities over the Easter weekend
Tuesday 31 March 2009
AVDC offers free swimming for the over 60's
Older residents will be able to enjoy free swimming in Aylesbury Vale from 1 April onwards.
Aylesbury Vale District Council has signed up to a free swimming initiative, which entitles all those aged 60 and over to free swimming during all casual sessions.
Free swims will be available at both the Aqua Vale Swimming and Fitness Centre in Aylesbury and the Swan Pool in Buckingham.
Councillor David Thompson, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “We are determined to do all we can to improve the health and quality of life of our residents. Offering free swimming is a great way to help people who are over 60 to stay fit and active.
“I want to encourage everyone eligible to dive in and take advantage of this fantastic offer. It’s not often that you get something for free, particularly in the current economic climate.”
AVDC is one of almost 300 councils across England to take part in the government’s free swimming scheme. The £140 million programme is a central part of plans to ensure a lasting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
A grant from the Department of Culture Media and Sport will cover the loss of income from the over 60s; although the grant funding is only for two years so the council will have to review the situation in 2011.
Anyone aged 60 or over who wants to take advantage of the scheme will need to bring proof of age and identity with them to the swimming pools on their first visit. Customers will then be issued with a card to show each time they visit the pools.
I hope that many of our older residents will take advantage of this - it's a great way to keep fit and healthy
Small Business Rate Relief
Less than 50% of small businesses eligible for small business rate relief are actually applying for it. Could you be missing out ?
From the AVDC website:
From the 1 April 2007 businesses with small, or low value premises are entitled to a reduction to the business rates usually charged.
A small business rate relief is available at 50% for ratepayers occupying single properties with a Rateable Value (RV) up to £5,000, with relief declining in percentage terms on a sliding scale, until at £10,000 RV it is 0%. Relief can only be allowed on one property and is only available to ratepayers with either:-
One property with a RV less than £15,000; or
One main property and other additional properties, each of which has a RV under £2,200, where the aggregate RV is less than £15,000.
Applications for relief must be received before the 30 September of the following year. An essential criterion is that the applicant must be an eligible ratepayer on 1 April of the year for which rate relief is sought. If a ratepayer ceases to be eligible on a given day, the relief will cease from that day.
For further information see the AVDC website at the following link:
http://www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/business/relocating-to-aylesbury-vale/business-rates/sbrr/
The Conservative Party has confirmed that if we win the next election, a Conservative Government would make Small Business Rate Relief automatic. That means scrapping the forms and bureaucracy of handling thousands of claims. It also means providing the help straight away, cutting the fixed overheads of small businesses each and every year.
When taken alongside our plans to cut small company corporation tax rates and reduce the payroll taxes of the smallest employers, this measure is another sign that, as a party, Conservatives are on the side of enterprise.
From the AVDC website:
From the 1 April 2007 businesses with small, or low value premises are entitled to a reduction to the business rates usually charged.
A small business rate relief is available at 50% for ratepayers occupying single properties with a Rateable Value (RV) up to £5,000, with relief declining in percentage terms on a sliding scale, until at £10,000 RV it is 0%. Relief can only be allowed on one property and is only available to ratepayers with either:-
One property with a RV less than £15,000; or
One main property and other additional properties, each of which has a RV under £2,200, where the aggregate RV is less than £15,000.
Applications for relief must be received before the 30 September of the following year. An essential criterion is that the applicant must be an eligible ratepayer on 1 April of the year for which rate relief is sought. If a ratepayer ceases to be eligible on a given day, the relief will cease from that day.
For further information see the AVDC website at the following link:
http://www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/business/relocating-to-aylesbury-vale/business-rates/sbrr/
The Conservative Party has confirmed that if we win the next election, a Conservative Government would make Small Business Rate Relief automatic. That means scrapping the forms and bureaucracy of handling thousands of claims. It also means providing the help straight away, cutting the fixed overheads of small businesses each and every year.
When taken alongside our plans to cut small company corporation tax rates and reduce the payroll taxes of the smallest employers, this measure is another sign that, as a party, Conservatives are on the side of enterprise.
New Aylesbury Theatre on time and within budget
Major milestone for Aylesbury’s new theatre
The construction of the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre reached another milestone on Thursday (26 March) as the structural wooden beams which support the roof and glazed exterior arrived on site.
Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of Aylesbury Vale District Council, and Councillor David Thompson, Cabinet Member for Leisure, were on site to welcome the delivery and see the first beams being offloaded.
Made from Larch wood sourced from a sustainable forest in Finland, the beams have been commissioned by main contractor Willmott Dixon specifically for the theatre project.
There are 106 beams in total, ranging in height from seven to 12 metres, which the architect designed to represent the Chiltern Hills and surrounding woodland areas. The beams will be installed over the next few weeks with the last beam expected to be in place in June.
Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: “It is great to see the progress being made with the new theatre and the installation of the structural beams will be another giant step towards our goal of creating a first class venue for the Vale. The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre will have a huge cultural significance for the district and I’m very much looking forward to the completion of the building in 2010.”
Mark Chamberlain, Project Director for Willmott Dixon, said: “This is a pivotal stage in the project development. People have seen the concrete frame rise above the hoardings and now they will begin to see the theatre evolve and take shape. The arrival of the beams for us signifies the start of the next stage and we are really looking forward to translating all the plans and artistic impressions
into reality.”
Around 300,000 people from across Aylesbury Vale and beyond are expected to visit the new theatre each year to enjoy a dynamic and diverse programme of live performances. The programme will be an exciting mix of West End shows, comedy, dance, concerts, gigs, pantomime, as well as international opera and ballet.
The concept for the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre was developed by AVDC and internationally-renowned theatre designers, RHWL Arts Team. The venue will have a 1,200-seat auditorium that converts into a 1,800-capacity hall for standing events, and a 225-seat suite for smaller events including dance, drama, meetings and conferences.
Building work started in 2007 and is on course to be completed in 2010. The venue will be managed by the Ambassador Theatre Group, who run the very successful Milton Keynes Theatre.
The theatre is part of AVDC’s Waterside scheme – an ambitious project to redevelop Aylesbury town centre, which will also create a new shopping area in Exchange Street, including a department and food store, as well as housing developments alongside the canal and at Circus Field.
Friday 20 March 2009
Which is your favourite pub ?
Search is on to find Aylesbury Vale’s best village pub
Pubgoers in Aylesbury Vale have the chance to nominate their local for a prestigious award.
The 2009 Village Pub Competition, organised by Aylesbury Vale District Council, aims to reward the best rural pubs in the district.
The council runs the award every year in memory of the late Councillor Ted Payne and to recognise the important role that village pubs play in community life, especially if there are few other local meeting places.
Councillor Pam Pearce, Cabinet Member for Community Matters, said: “Like post offices and village stores, the local pub can often be an essential part of the fabric of the community, especially in rural and remote areas. The pub trade is going through a difficult time at the moment and we need to do what we can to help support rural pubs. This competition will help us to raise the profile and importance of pubs in the community and encourage people to visit their local more often.”
As well as the overall title of Aylesbury Vale Village Pub of the Year, prizes for best food pub and best community pub are also up for grabs.
Previous winners of the pub of the year title include the Unicorn at Cublington, the Queen’s Head at Wing and the George and Dragon at Quainton.
Nomination forms are available online at www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/pubcomp or from pubs across the district. The closing date for entries is 31 May, with the winners being announced later this year.
Pubgoers in Aylesbury Vale have the chance to nominate their local for a prestigious award.
The 2009 Village Pub Competition, organised by Aylesbury Vale District Council, aims to reward the best rural pubs in the district.
The council runs the award every year in memory of the late Councillor Ted Payne and to recognise the important role that village pubs play in community life, especially if there are few other local meeting places.
Councillor Pam Pearce, Cabinet Member for Community Matters, said: “Like post offices and village stores, the local pub can often be an essential part of the fabric of the community, especially in rural and remote areas. The pub trade is going through a difficult time at the moment and we need to do what we can to help support rural pubs. This competition will help us to raise the profile and importance of pubs in the community and encourage people to visit their local more often.”
As well as the overall title of Aylesbury Vale Village Pub of the Year, prizes for best food pub and best community pub are also up for grabs.
Previous winners of the pub of the year title include the Unicorn at Cublington, the Queen’s Head at Wing and the George and Dragon at Quainton.
Nomination forms are available online at www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/pubcomp or from pubs across the district. The closing date for entries is 31 May, with the winners being announced later this year.
Social Care Surgery in Buckingham 7th April
From the Bucks CC Adult Social Care department:
For your information an event in your local area
A local Social Care Surgery will be held at The Buckingham Centre on 7.4.09 between 10.00am -1.00pm. This will enable residents of the local area a chance to “drop in” for advice and guidance on services provided by Adult Social Care and the local voluntary organisations.
The Surgeries are also working in close partnership with Thames Valley Police and a local PCSO will also be attending to provide crime prevention and reduction advice.
Also the Local Area Technician from the highways department will be available to discus any issues related to the roads in the local area.
For more details and information please do not hesitate to contact Karen Adamson on 01296 383847. Please feel free to drop by and any feedback would be gratefully received.
For your information an event in your local area
A local Social Care Surgery will be held at The Buckingham Centre on 7.4.09 between 10.00am -1.00pm. This will enable residents of the local area a chance to “drop in” for advice and guidance on services provided by Adult Social Care and the local voluntary organisations.
The Surgeries are also working in close partnership with Thames Valley Police and a local PCSO will also be attending to provide crime prevention and reduction advice.
Also the Local Area Technician from the highways department will be available to discus any issues related to the roads in the local area.
For more details and information please do not hesitate to contact Karen Adamson on 01296 383847. Please feel free to drop by and any feedback would be gratefully received.
VAHT lets historic cottages in Steeple Claydon
From the Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust website:
The Trust has just brought four additional properties into our housing stock. Originally built in 1864, the four terraced cottages in Steeple Claydon have been totally refurbished and have been let to three new tenants, with the fourth awaiting a decision.
These are the first properties that we have added since the transfer in 2006 and signal the start of our programme of development of more homes for the future. Over the next year we plan to add a further 60 properties across the Vale, working with the Guinness Partnership.
Tuesday 10 February 2009
AVDC grant for village Post Office
Steeple Claydon's village bakery and post office are set to receive a £6,500 upgrade as part of AVDC's rural grants scheme, it has been announced.
Karl's bakery and the post office are a focal point of the village, serving and supporting many local people. The grant will be used to create better access for disabled people and make other improvements to the 100 year old premises in West Street.
This is one of the first grants to be awarded as part of AVDC's Vital Village scheme, designed to support the rural economy in the Vale of Aylesbury.
It is great news that Steeple Claydon has been chosen to benefit from this excellent scheme.
Thursday 5 February 2009
Events Fair for 10-19 year olds
I have received information about an Events Fair for young people in Winslow Centre on Sat 25th April. More information when I get it.
• The event will take place on Saturday 25th April 2009 from 11.00am – 6.00pm at the Winslow Centre.
• It will be aimed at 10 – 19 year olds
• It will promote local activities, volunteering opportunities and offer “hands on” careers advice.
• The event will take place on Saturday 25th April 2009 from 11.00am – 6.00pm at the Winslow Centre.
• It will be aimed at 10 – 19 year olds
• It will promote local activities, volunteering opportunities and offer “hands on” careers advice.
Wednesday 28 January 2009
East-West Railway: the work begins !
The exciting news is that at long last work is beginning to reopen the line from Bletchley to Oxford via Steeple Claydon. This week a start will be made on clearing vegetation from the disused stretch of line from Claydon to Bletchley.
The following bulletin has been received from the Milton Keynes Partnership:
Ladies & Gentlemen,
As you may be aware, the East West Rail (EWR) Consortium and Milton Keynes Partnership (MKP) have commissioned work to complete the design of the Western Section of EWR. This work will provide a costed outline design of the infrastructure needed to run trains Oxford/Milton Keynes and Aylesbury/Milton Keynes.
I thought that you would wish to know that, in connection with this project, work is scheduled to start next Monday (26th Jan) on clearing vegetation from the unused part of the Western Section, i.e. from Bletchley through Winslow as far as Claydon Junction. (To the west and south of Claydon Junction the track is used by waste trains.) The clearance is required in preparation for technical surveys and ground investigations by the consultants appointed to carry out the design work.
MKP issued the attached release regarding the clearance works on behalf of the EWR Consortium. They sent the release to the local press and, I believe, will be distributing it more widely to the media in the next day or two.
Press Release:
Clearing the way for East-West Rail design
Around 20 kilometres of disused railway line between Bletchley and Claydon Junction stations will be cleared of scrub, brambles and overgrown vegetation so that survey and investigation work can be carried out for the design development phase of the East-West Rail project.
Starting on 26 January, the clearance will take two to three weeks and some will be done with manual equipment, although the more densely overgrown areas will need to be cleared with chainsaws and tractor mounted flails. All of the waste materials will be left chipped and spread on the site.
Patrick O’Sullivan, East-West Rail Project Manager at Milton Keynes Partnership, said: “While this work is happening the contractors will be making every effort to keep any disruption to a minimum. Once the site clearance is completed, the engineers and surveyors will begin their technical surveys and ground investigations to enable the design work of the new track and associated railway engineering works for the western section of the East-West Rail project.”
The design development work is being undertaken by Atkins Consultancy who were recently appointed to carry out the design work (Guidance for Railway Investment Projects - GRIP Stage 4) on the Western Section of the East-West Rail project.
Residents who have any questions about the clearance works between Bletchley and Claydon should contact Jez Baldock of Atkins Consultancy (who are project managing the works programme on behalf of Milton Keynes Partnership) on 0121 483 5323, or Patrick O’Sullivan of Milton Keynes Partnership on 01908 353752.
ENDS
For more information please contact: Helen Meadows or Nadir Farrell, Milton Keynes Partnership press office on 01908 353981 or 353913 helen.meadows@hca.gsx.gov.uk nadir.farrell@hca.gsx.gov.uk
Notes to editors:
Milton Keynes Partnership created in June 2004 is responsible for growth, development and investment in the new city. It is a sub-committee of the Homes and Communities Agency, the newly formed housing and regeneration agency for England. Milton Keynes Partnership is the lead member of the East-West Rail Consortium.
East-West Rail Consortium is a group of local authorities and government agencies with an objective of securing a new rail route from East Anglia to Oxford via the Milton Keynes South Midlands growth area. More details of the project can be found online at www.eastwestrail.org.uk. The £2 million for the GRIP 4 work has come from the Growth Area Fund from Oxford, Aylesbury and Milton Keynes with support from the DCLG.
AVDC Grants available for small businesses
Business Grants Available
AVDC are encouraging budding entrepreneurs and those businesses that are looking to expand by providing grants of up to £5,000.
The small business grant scheme aims to promote sustainable business growth whilst promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and encouraging employment growth.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate employment and financial growth in their applications to succeed.
To qualify, applicants must be businesses based in the Vale and are starting-up or are businesses with less than 30 employees.
The next Business grants panel meeting is to be held in February and AVDC looks forward to receiving applications from local businesses.
For further information please contact the Economic Development Team by telephone on 01296 585657 or by email economicdevelopment@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk
AVDC are encouraging budding entrepreneurs and those businesses that are looking to expand by providing grants of up to £5,000.
The small business grant scheme aims to promote sustainable business growth whilst promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and encouraging employment growth.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate employment and financial growth in their applications to succeed.
To qualify, applicants must be businesses based in the Vale and are starting-up or are businesses with less than 30 employees.
The next Business grants panel meeting is to be held in February and AVDC looks forward to receiving applications from local businesses.
For further information please contact the Economic Development Team by telephone on 01296 585657 or by email economicdevelopment@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk
2009 Council Tax increase lowest for a decade
Cabinet proposes lowest council tax increase for a decade
Aylesbury Vale District Council’s cabinet has recommended the district’s lowest council tax increase for 10 years.
At a meeting of the cabinet on 13 January, councillors approved a budget for 2009/10 that will see a council tax increase of two per cent. This means people living in a Band D property will pay £128.57 this year for district council services, an increase of £2.53 or some five pence per week.
The recommendation, which runs below the current rate of inflation, will ease the burden on residents affected by the economic downturn.
The district council faces some tough decisions this year as a result of the credit crunch and world wide recession – with reduced income in many areas, lower interest on investments, and rising energy and fuel costs.
In response, the cabinet’s proposed budget for the next financial year includes £1.7 million in efficiency savings, minimising wherever possible any impact on front-line services. Substantial savings will be made on salaries through a series of restructuring plans, retirements and not filling existing vacant posts.
Aylesbury Vale District Council’s cabinet has recommended the district’s lowest council tax increase for 10 years.
At a meeting of the cabinet on 13 January, councillors approved a budget for 2009/10 that will see a council tax increase of two per cent. This means people living in a Band D property will pay £128.57 this year for district council services, an increase of £2.53 or some five pence per week.
The recommendation, which runs below the current rate of inflation, will ease the burden on residents affected by the economic downturn.
The district council faces some tough decisions this year as a result of the credit crunch and world wide recession – with reduced income in many areas, lower interest on investments, and rising energy and fuel costs.
In response, the cabinet’s proposed budget for the next financial year includes £1.7 million in efficiency savings, minimising wherever possible any impact on front-line services. Substantial savings will be made on salaries through a series of restructuring plans, retirements and not filling existing vacant posts.
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Steeple Claydon spire seen through oak trees
Map of Claydon Station
Meeting our local PCSO
Supporting our local businesses
With anti HS2 campaigners in Calvert