How many new jobs and homes should be created in Aylesbury Vale? That’s the big question that Aylesbury Vale District Council is asking residents in a major consultation set to get underway.
Between 1 December 2011 and 26 January 2012, the district council wants to hear what local people, community groups, parish and town councils and other organisations think is the right level of new housing and jobs in the Vale over the next 20 years.
The move comes after the government announced its intention to abolish the South East Plan, taking with it the requirement to build 1,060 homes a year in Aylesbury Vale. This means it will now be down to the council to make these local decisions for our district.
Over the past few years the district has seen an average of 750 new homes built every year. With regional targets set to be abolished the council is going back to the drawing board to look again at what is the right figure for the number of new jobs and homes for the Vale.
AVDC cannot just say that no more housing will be built, as homes will be needed for young people that have grown up in the Vale and older people that want to stay in the area and downsize after their families have flown the nest.
In addition, the council needs to create a thriving and prosperous district, by attracting new businesses to the Vale. New homes will be required so that people can afford to live in the area and not have to commute in and out every day, making congestion worse.
The consultation will put forward four possible scenarios for housing and job numbers for the Vale to 2031, ranging from 4,500 homes up to 13,500 homes. The options are:
• 4,500 to 6,700 homes and 0 to 3,000 jobs
• 6,750 to 9,000 homes and 3,000 to 6,100 jobs
• 9,000 to 11,250 homes and 6,100 to 9,100 jobs
• 11,250 to 13,500 homes and 9,100 to 12,000 jobs
The proposed figures are all lower than the level of new jobs and homes the council had to plan for in the past. They are based on careful consideration of a number of factors including current and future levels of housing need and affordability; predictions about changes in the population, demographics, births and deaths and changes in household size; how the economy may perform; the number of jobs and houses provided over the past few years; how new housing can support the local economy; and a number of other relevant studies and evidence.
Planners have put forward the figures as part of work on a new planning policy for the district over the next 20 years called the Vale of Aylesbury Plan. Planning applications will be judged against this once it is approved and finalised in about two years time.
People are also being asked to comment on how new homes might be distributed across the Vale. The options are:
• Continue past trends: based upon where recent development has taken place in the district
• Economic led: based on economic forecasts for where jobs growth is most likely to occur
• New settlement: based on concentrating homes at one or two theoretical new settlements in the district
• Population and demographic change: based on ten year population trend projections
• Housing need: based on affordable housing needs analysis, putting growth where housing need is greatest
• Maintain work age population: based on demographic need projections
• Urban concentration: concentrating new homes in the more urban areas of the district, which continues the council’s present policy approach
Councillor Carole Paternoster, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, said: “We must balance the need to protect the environment of the district with our communities’ jobs and housing needs, and the infrastructure which is essential to make it all work. Building new homes is an emotive issue and it is only right that we go back to the drawing board, look at the needs of our district and ask people what they think is the right number of new houses and jobs for the Vale. I look forward to hearing residents’ views on the options for the jobs and housing numbers we are putting forward.”
To ensure the consultation will engage with as many people as possible, three drop-in sessions will be held so that residents can talk with planning officers about the content of the document. The sessions will take place at:
• Aylesbury Waterside Theatre – Tuesday 10 January, from 3pm to 8pm
• Buckingham Community Centre – Wednesday 11 January, from 3pm to 8pm
• The Winslow Centre – Wednesday 18 January, from 3pm to 8pm
Comments must be received by Thursday 26 January 2012. The responses will then feed into the work on the Vale of Aylesbury Plan, alongside the engagement that the council is currently undertaking with parish and town councils, key stakeholders and technical evidence. There will be a further opportunity to comment later in 2012 as the plan moves forward.
Claydon House
Claydon House Gardens
Friday 30 December 2011
Happy New Year from your District Councillor
Wishing all the residents of the Claydons a happy and prosperous New Year, and looking forward to continuing to serve you in 2012. Please do not hesitate to contact me over any local issues which you would like to discuss.
Refuse and Recycling collections over Christmas and the New Year
Aylesbury Vale District Council’s refuse and recycling collections change over the festive period due to the public bank holidays.
Listed below are the holiday collection dates:
Date Revised collections
Monday 26 Dec No collection
Tuesday 27 Dec No collection
Wednesday 28 Dec Normal collection
Thursday 29 Dec Normal collection
Friday 30 Dec Normal collection
Monday 2 Jan Tuesday 3 Jan
Tuesday 3 Jan Wednesday 4 Jan
Wednesday 4 Jan Thursday 5 Jan
Thursday 5 Jan Friday 6 Jan
Friday 6 Jan Saturday 7 Jan
Listed below are the holiday collection dates:
Date Revised collections
Monday 26 Dec No collection
Tuesday 27 Dec No collection
Wednesday 28 Dec Normal collection
Thursday 29 Dec Normal collection
Friday 30 Dec Normal collection
Monday 2 Jan Tuesday 3 Jan
Tuesday 3 Jan Wednesday 4 Jan
Wednesday 4 Jan Thursday 5 Jan
Thursday 5 Jan Friday 6 Jan
Friday 6 Jan Saturday 7 Jan
Tuesday 6 December 2011
Some encouraging news on East West Rail
From the County Council:
East-West Rail Consortium members today (Monday December 5) gave Transport Minister Theresa Villiers a first hand view of the proposals to link Oxford, Milton Keynes, Aylesbury and Bedford by rail, when she visited Bicester Town station.
Her visit follows Chancellor George Osborne's announcement in last week's Autumn Statement that east-west rail is included in the government's rail investment programme for 2014 to 2019. It could be running by 2017, making it the first railway in England to be reopened since the 1960s Beeching era.
The Minister met local MPs and Consortium members, and saw plans and schematics for the proposed route. Bicester Town, currently the end of the line for a shuttle train to Oxford, will be developed by Chiltern Railways as part of its new London to Oxford service, and form the junction for the planned east-west rail line towards Milton Keynes.
The Consortium of businesses and local authorities has for 16 years been championing the cause of improved east-west rail links to improve transport connections and stimulate economic growth, and Chairman Neil Gibson said members were encouraged by the minister's visit. 'This really does put us on track for the government's investment programme,' he said. 'We've a very strong business case, but there's still much work to do to before final approval.'
Martin Tett, Leader of Buckinghamshire County Council, who met the Minister, was delighted with her endorsement. 'The Minister's visit signals strong government support for this project, which is good news for economic growth for the counties along the route,' he said.
The Consortium project board will meet on December 13 to review the implications of the Autumn Statement announcement. Partners want to identify the next steps they need to take to meet the conditions of Government support and to develop practical project arrangements with Network Rail and the rail industry.
As part of the National Infrastructure Plan, the £270 million east-west link has Government approval on two conditions: a sound business case, and a 'suitable local contribution'. Work on confirming the business case and developing a local contribution portfolio will aim at a deadline of Spring 2012.
East-West Rail Consortium members today (Monday December 5) gave Transport Minister Theresa Villiers a first hand view of the proposals to link Oxford, Milton Keynes, Aylesbury and Bedford by rail, when she visited Bicester Town station.
Her visit follows Chancellor George Osborne's announcement in last week's Autumn Statement that east-west rail is included in the government's rail investment programme for 2014 to 2019. It could be running by 2017, making it the first railway in England to be reopened since the 1960s Beeching era.
The Minister met local MPs and Consortium members, and saw plans and schematics for the proposed route. Bicester Town, currently the end of the line for a shuttle train to Oxford, will be developed by Chiltern Railways as part of its new London to Oxford service, and form the junction for the planned east-west rail line towards Milton Keynes.
The Consortium of businesses and local authorities has for 16 years been championing the cause of improved east-west rail links to improve transport connections and stimulate economic growth, and Chairman Neil Gibson said members were encouraged by the minister's visit. 'This really does put us on track for the government's investment programme,' he said. 'We've a very strong business case, but there's still much work to do to before final approval.'
Martin Tett, Leader of Buckinghamshire County Council, who met the Minister, was delighted with her endorsement. 'The Minister's visit signals strong government support for this project, which is good news for economic growth for the counties along the route,' he said.
The Consortium project board will meet on December 13 to review the implications of the Autumn Statement announcement. Partners want to identify the next steps they need to take to meet the conditions of Government support and to develop practical project arrangements with Network Rail and the rail industry.
As part of the National Infrastructure Plan, the £270 million east-west link has Government approval on two conditions: a sound business case, and a 'suitable local contribution'. Work on confirming the business case and developing a local contribution portfolio will aim at a deadline of Spring 2012.
Thursday 1 December 2011
Message on Wednesday's refuse collection from AVDC
Please note that Wednesday's refuse will be collected on your next normal collection day. Services for the remainder of this week will not be affected by the strike.
Thursday 27 October 2011
Free Parking to continue in Greyhound Lane car park, Winslow
Traders and shoppers in Winslow will welcome the news that parking is to remain free in the town’s Greyhound Lane car park, following an agreement reached with the town council.
Aylesbury Vale District Council’s cabinet this week approved a proposal to provide free parking in the car park until 2018.
The agreement will see Winslow Town Council contribute £5,000 in 2012/13, increasing annually by £500 until 2018 when the position will be reviewed.
The Market Square will continue to enjoy free parking for the first hour with a 50p charge for the second hour.
Earlier this year AVDC consulted on proposals to introduce parking charges in the Greyhound Lane car park. The town council and local traders raised their concerns that due to the current economic situation any charging proposals would be damaging to local businesses and could hinder any future recovery.
Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: “AVDC is keen to support the local retailers and we recognise the difficult trading environment that businesses in Winslow are facing. We have met with the town council and local traders and have listened to their concerns for their businesses during these tough economic times.
“We are pleased that we have been able to reach an agreement that enabled the situation to be resolved satisfactorily for all concerned. We hope the agreement will be welcomed by businesses, visitors and shoppers who will all continue to benefit from free parking in the town.”
Aylesbury Vale District Council’s cabinet this week approved a proposal to provide free parking in the car park until 2018.
The agreement will see Winslow Town Council contribute £5,000 in 2012/13, increasing annually by £500 until 2018 when the position will be reviewed.
The Market Square will continue to enjoy free parking for the first hour with a 50p charge for the second hour.
Earlier this year AVDC consulted on proposals to introduce parking charges in the Greyhound Lane car park. The town council and local traders raised their concerns that due to the current economic situation any charging proposals would be damaging to local businesses and could hinder any future recovery.
Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said: “AVDC is keen to support the local retailers and we recognise the difficult trading environment that businesses in Winslow are facing. We have met with the town council and local traders and have listened to their concerns for their businesses during these tough economic times.
“We are pleased that we have been able to reach an agreement that enabled the situation to be resolved satisfactorily for all concerned. We hope the agreement will be welcomed by businesses, visitors and shoppers who will all continue to benefit from free parking in the town.”
AVDC: free parking for Christmas shoppers
Aylesbury Vale District Council is offering free parking in its Buckingham, Winslow and Wendover car parks on selected Saturdays in December.
The offer is a bid to encourage shoppers to stay local this Christmas and take advantage of the excellent mix of independent and high street shops that the district has to offer.
The town and parish councils have helped plan the free Christmas parking days, which will take place in Buckingham on 10 December and in Wendover and Winslow on 17 December.
Free parking will also be available in council car parks in Aylesbury on Thursday evenings from 4.30pm between 17 November and 22 December.
Shoppers across Aylesbury Vale are also being reminded that all of AVDC’s pay and display car parks are free to use on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
When charges are suspended in Buckingham, Wendover and Winslow, the pay and display machines will be covered and signs will be displayed to prevent any confusion. Other parking rules still apply, so motorists need to make sure they’re parked within the white lines, and stay out of spaces for the disabled unless they display a valid blue badge.
Councillor Brian Roberts, Cabinet Member for Civic Amenities, said: “This is a very positive step we can take to support our retailers at their most important time of year. Our district has a lot to offer shoppers including a wide range of small independent shops alongside the bigger stores. We want to bring visitors into the area and encourage residents to shop local too.”
The offer is a bid to encourage shoppers to stay local this Christmas and take advantage of the excellent mix of independent and high street shops that the district has to offer.
The town and parish councils have helped plan the free Christmas parking days, which will take place in Buckingham on 10 December and in Wendover and Winslow on 17 December.
Free parking will also be available in council car parks in Aylesbury on Thursday evenings from 4.30pm between 17 November and 22 December.
Shoppers across Aylesbury Vale are also being reminded that all of AVDC’s pay and display car parks are free to use on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
When charges are suspended in Buckingham, Wendover and Winslow, the pay and display machines will be covered and signs will be displayed to prevent any confusion. Other parking rules still apply, so motorists need to make sure they’re parked within the white lines, and stay out of spaces for the disabled unless they display a valid blue badge.
Councillor Brian Roberts, Cabinet Member for Civic Amenities, said: “This is a very positive step we can take to support our retailers at their most important time of year. Our district has a lot to offer shoppers including a wide range of small independent shops alongside the bigger stores. We want to bring visitors into the area and encourage residents to shop local too.”
Friday 16 September 2011
What are your priorities ?
At a recent workshop for local residents, the following were identified as local priorities for action and improvement:
• Evening bus services and access to leisure facilities to be improved.
• Improved support for carers
• Flood Mitigation
• Address Buckingham Hospital service reduction
• Promote Local Shopping Facilities where they exist
• Insufficient Public Transport in Rural areas
• Roads and pavements should be repaired to an acceptable standard
• Speeding on roads throughout the area
• Restrict Heavy Goods Vehicles from inappropriate roads
• Improved winter gritting and maintenance
• Make Brownfield Sites a priority over Green Sites for development
• Planning should consider the characteristics of a particular area.
• Higher Police visibility in rural areas
• Review affordable social housing policies. Encourage affordable houses over flats.
. Provide more affordable housing
• Provide Broadband internet to those areas where it is not available.
• Improved funding for village activity centres (Halls Churches etc.)
• Footpath and Street Lighting should be appropriate and maintained
• Access to Green Infrastructure
Do you agree with this list ? As your District Councillor I am always interested in what your priorities are. Please comment...
• Evening bus services and access to leisure facilities to be improved.
• Improved support for carers
• Flood Mitigation
• Address Buckingham Hospital service reduction
• Promote Local Shopping Facilities where they exist
• Insufficient Public Transport in Rural areas
• Roads and pavements should be repaired to an acceptable standard
• Speeding on roads throughout the area
• Restrict Heavy Goods Vehicles from inappropriate roads
• Improved winter gritting and maintenance
• Make Brownfield Sites a priority over Green Sites for development
• Planning should consider the characteristics of a particular area.
• Higher Police visibility in rural areas
• Review affordable social housing policies. Encourage affordable houses over flats.
. Provide more affordable housing
• Provide Broadband internet to those areas where it is not available.
• Improved funding for village activity centres (Halls Churches etc.)
• Footpath and Street Lighting should be appropriate and maintained
• Access to Green Infrastructure
Do you agree with this list ? As your District Councillor I am always interested in what your priorities are. Please comment...
Meet your local District Councillor 15th Oct
All the District Councillors for the Buckingham area, including myself, will be holding an open meeting for local residents in Buckingham Community Centre from 10.30 - 12.00 am.
Do pop in for a free cup of coffee and a chat.
Do pop in for a free cup of coffee and a chat.
News from our local PCSOs
Please note the Have Your Say at Steeple Claydon Library on 20th Sept at 2.30 - 5pm
Speeding
Speed enforcement commenced in the area on 24 August in Main Street, Padbury, (07:45-09:20). 3 fixed penalty notices were issued, 38, 39 and 42 mph.
One further motorist was given advice for driving at 35 mph.
Local crime
Again, total reported crime is down; by 4 incidents in the 3 month period ending July
2011 compared to July 2010. Serious acquisitive crime, which relates to offences
such as burglary and robbery as well as motor vehicle theft , is up by 4 incidents.
Again, most of the increase is theft from vehicles. Therefore, the Neighbourhood
teams are continuing Operation Aim until Christmas which provides patrols to the
beauty spot car parks to disrupt criminal activity. This operation will still include the successful Clear Car campaign in a bid to continuously educate drivers and their families about the removal of valuable items from vehicles when unattended.
Serious violent crime remains at zero.
Criminal damage is down by 4 incidents with a slight increase in public order offences. Non-dwelling burglaries have again decreased compared to this time last year.
Have your say
Come and meet your Neighbourhood team to discuss any issues you may have. The next
opportunities are: Henry’s in Winslow High Street on 27/9/11, Whitchurch Surgery on
29/9/11 (both 1000-1200) and Steeple Claydon Library on 20/9/11 at 1430-1700.
ASB
Reports of anti-social behaviour problems occurring in Winslow.
It is believed that groups of young people have been drinking alcohol and using illegal drugs at these locations on a regular basis due to the litter and
paraphernalia left behind. It is also believed that similar activity has been occurring at the Steeple Claydon recreation ground. Extra police patrols have been carried out at all these locations over the past weeks and as a result two young people have been dealt with by Police of drug offences.
Buckingham South NHPT will be liaising with Addiction workers to carry out joint agency patrols aimed at engaging with all groups of young people in these communities and with a view to educating them about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse and discouraging anti-social behaviour.
Countryside crime
Thames Valley Police attended the Bucks County Show on 1 September. The Force tractor was on display and drew large numbers of farmers and landowners again, who were interested in crime prevention ideas to disrupt the theft of farm plant and machinery. The Thames Valley Horsewatch trade stand moved from its usual location in the police area to a central position amongst the horse show rings which improved footfall immensely. A lot of interest was shown for tack marking. A Countrywatch stand was erected in the National Farmers Union trade stand which enabled officers to
talk about the benefits of the scheme to NFU visitors.
The new Aylesbury Vale Dog Watch scheme was launched. Details of the scheme were also held at all these trade stands. Aylesbury Vale District Council Community Safety team also promoted the scheme.
Speeding
Speed enforcement commenced in the area on 24 August in Main Street, Padbury, (07:45-09:20). 3 fixed penalty notices were issued, 38, 39 and 42 mph.
One further motorist was given advice for driving at 35 mph.
Local crime
Again, total reported crime is down; by 4 incidents in the 3 month period ending July
2011 compared to July 2010. Serious acquisitive crime, which relates to offences
such as burglary and robbery as well as motor vehicle theft , is up by 4 incidents.
Again, most of the increase is theft from vehicles. Therefore, the Neighbourhood
teams are continuing Operation Aim until Christmas which provides patrols to the
beauty spot car parks to disrupt criminal activity. This operation will still include the successful Clear Car campaign in a bid to continuously educate drivers and their families about the removal of valuable items from vehicles when unattended.
Serious violent crime remains at zero.
Criminal damage is down by 4 incidents with a slight increase in public order offences. Non-dwelling burglaries have again decreased compared to this time last year.
Have your say
Come and meet your Neighbourhood team to discuss any issues you may have. The next
opportunities are: Henry’s in Winslow High Street on 27/9/11, Whitchurch Surgery on
29/9/11 (both 1000-1200) and Steeple Claydon Library on 20/9/11 at 1430-1700.
ASB
Reports of anti-social behaviour problems occurring in Winslow.
It is believed that groups of young people have been drinking alcohol and using illegal drugs at these locations on a regular basis due to the litter and
paraphernalia left behind. It is also believed that similar activity has been occurring at the Steeple Claydon recreation ground. Extra police patrols have been carried out at all these locations over the past weeks and as a result two young people have been dealt with by Police of drug offences.
Buckingham South NHPT will be liaising with Addiction workers to carry out joint agency patrols aimed at engaging with all groups of young people in these communities and with a view to educating them about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse and discouraging anti-social behaviour.
Countryside crime
Thames Valley Police attended the Bucks County Show on 1 September. The Force tractor was on display and drew large numbers of farmers and landowners again, who were interested in crime prevention ideas to disrupt the theft of farm plant and machinery. The Thames Valley Horsewatch trade stand moved from its usual location in the police area to a central position amongst the horse show rings which improved footfall immensely. A lot of interest was shown for tack marking. A Countrywatch stand was erected in the National Farmers Union trade stand which enabled officers to
talk about the benefits of the scheme to NFU visitors.
The new Aylesbury Vale Dog Watch scheme was launched. Details of the scheme were also held at all these trade stands. Aylesbury Vale District Council Community Safety team also promoted the scheme.
News on road repairs
There is some good news at last from the County Council on road repairs in the Claydons, thanks to the increased road maintenance budget for Bucks over the next 2 years.
The road from Botolph Claydon to Quainton is due to be resurfaced by the end of October this year, and the road from Botolph Claydon to Calvert is due to be resurfaced in 2012/13.
Also, the road bridge over the disused railway between Steeple Claydon and Twyford will be reopened this month after temporary repairs. Congratulations to all those who made their voices heard through a local petition.
The road sign at the junction of Addisons Road and West Street, which has been defaced, is also due to be replaced.
The Local Area Forum in June also allocated funding from its 2011/12 transportation budget for new salt bins in East Claydon and Botolph Claydon, and for a vehicle activated speed warning sign in East Claydon.
The road from Botolph Claydon to Quainton is due to be resurfaced by the end of October this year, and the road from Botolph Claydon to Calvert is due to be resurfaced in 2012/13.
Also, the road bridge over the disused railway between Steeple Claydon and Twyford will be reopened this month after temporary repairs. Congratulations to all those who made their voices heard through a local petition.
The road sign at the junction of Addisons Road and West Street, which has been defaced, is also due to be replaced.
The Local Area Forum in June also allocated funding from its 2011/12 transportation budget for new salt bins in East Claydon and Botolph Claydon, and for a vehicle activated speed warning sign in East Claydon.
Consultation on local buses
The County Council are currently launching a public consultation on local bus services. Don't miss this opportunity to make your views heard. Contact details are below:
Consultation – bus routes 16, 17 & 18
The Transport for Buckinghamshire Passenger Transport Team are undertaking a
consultation as a result of a review of bus routes 16, 17 & 18. These routes serve
Waddesdon, Steeple Claydon and Marsh Gibbon and the surrounding villages and
currently provide links to Aylesbury, Buckingham and Bicester.
Information has been circulated to the LAF and any feedback or questions should be
directed to Andy Clarke, Passenger Transport Manager, by Wednesday 19th October.
Email: passtrans@buckscc.gov.uk
Post: Passenger Transport
Transport for Buckinghamshire
County Hall
Walton Street
Aylesbury
Bucks, HP20 1UY
Consultation – bus routes 16, 17 & 18
The Transport for Buckinghamshire Passenger Transport Team are undertaking a
consultation as a result of a review of bus routes 16, 17 & 18. These routes serve
Waddesdon, Steeple Claydon and Marsh Gibbon and the surrounding villages and
currently provide links to Aylesbury, Buckingham and Bicester.
Information has been circulated to the LAF and any feedback or questions should be
directed to Andy Clarke, Passenger Transport Manager, by Wednesday 19th October.
Email: passtrans@buckscc.gov.uk
Post: Passenger Transport
Transport for Buckinghamshire
County Hall
Walton Street
Aylesbury
Bucks, HP20 1UY
Thursday 7 July 2011
Keep your Land Rover safe
A new campaign has been launched to help reduce the number of Land Rover thefts in Aylesbury Vale.
The Love your Land Rover initiative, set up by the Aylesbury Vale Community Safety Partnership, aims to encourage owners to take simple steps to reduce the risk of their 4x4 vehicles being stolen.
Over the past 12 months there has been a significant increase in Land Rover thefts – particularly older Defender models as they don’t have the most modern security systems.
The majority of thefts have taken place in rural areas with many on farm premises. It is believed the vehicles are being stripped down and the parts either sold in this country or exported.
In light of these incidents owners are urged to be extra vigilant and ensure their vehicles are secure. The Community Safety Partnership strongly recommend the following:
• Always lock and alarm your Land Rover
• Park in a locked garage or other locked secure area or in a well-lit open space or where there is passive lighting
• Don’t leave keys in the ignition or near the front door at home
• Fit a transponder based security marking system and tracker device and etch all windows with your vehicle identification number
• If your Land Rover is over ten years old also fit an alarm and either fit an immobiliser or use a steering wheel lock
The Love your Land Rover initiative, set up by the Aylesbury Vale Community Safety Partnership, aims to encourage owners to take simple steps to reduce the risk of their 4x4 vehicles being stolen.
Over the past 12 months there has been a significant increase in Land Rover thefts – particularly older Defender models as they don’t have the most modern security systems.
The majority of thefts have taken place in rural areas with many on farm premises. It is believed the vehicles are being stripped down and the parts either sold in this country or exported.
In light of these incidents owners are urged to be extra vigilant and ensure their vehicles are secure. The Community Safety Partnership strongly recommend the following:
• Always lock and alarm your Land Rover
• Park in a locked garage or other locked secure area or in a well-lit open space or where there is passive lighting
• Don’t leave keys in the ignition or near the front door at home
• Fit a transponder based security marking system and tracker device and etch all windows with your vehicle identification number
• If your Land Rover is over ten years old also fit an alarm and either fit an immobiliser or use a steering wheel lock
New Business advice website for Aylesbury Vale
A new website designed to encourage new businesses to invest in Aylesbury Vale as well as providing essential help and advice for start-up and existing firms is now online.
The website www.investaylesburyvale.com will act as a single point of contact for business advice and support provided by Aylesbury Vale District Council and partner organisations.
Commissioned by AVDC, the website has been designed to provide user-friendly information and interactive tools for start-up, growing and relocating businesses. From the homepage users can choose which journey they wish to take, with each pathway providing tailored resources and information for the user.
The site includes lots of hints and tips, information about the support AVDC and partners can provide and signposting to other sources and help, including:
• Grants and access to sources of finance;
• Premises and commercial agents;
• Business networks and support; and
• Colleges and training organisations
There is also information about the quality of life living and working in Aylesbury Vale offers and case studies from a wide range of companies who have recently established themselves in the area who are keen to give their perspective on doing business in the Vale.
Local businesses or those thinking of relocating will also be able to sign up to the council’s online business directory and carry out commercial land and property searches.
The new website is just part of a package of support AVDC can offer businesses, including a start-up grant for businesses with a three-month trading history and directing start-ups to a range of serviced accommodation in Aylesbury Vale, including the AVDC-supported Aylesbury Enterprise and Innovation Centre, where businesses can network or hot desk, depending on their office needs.
The website www.investaylesburyvale.com will act as a single point of contact for business advice and support provided by Aylesbury Vale District Council and partner organisations.
Commissioned by AVDC, the website has been designed to provide user-friendly information and interactive tools for start-up, growing and relocating businesses. From the homepage users can choose which journey they wish to take, with each pathway providing tailored resources and information for the user.
The site includes lots of hints and tips, information about the support AVDC and partners can provide and signposting to other sources and help, including:
• Grants and access to sources of finance;
• Premises and commercial agents;
• Business networks and support; and
• Colleges and training organisations
There is also information about the quality of life living and working in Aylesbury Vale offers and case studies from a wide range of companies who have recently established themselves in the area who are keen to give their perspective on doing business in the Vale.
Local businesses or those thinking of relocating will also be able to sign up to the council’s online business directory and carry out commercial land and property searches.
The new website is just part of a package of support AVDC can offer businesses, including a start-up grant for businesses with a three-month trading history and directing start-ups to a range of serviced accommodation in Aylesbury Vale, including the AVDC-supported Aylesbury Enterprise and Innovation Centre, where businesses can network or hot desk, depending on their office needs.
Saturday 21 May 2011
HS2 consultation roadshow comes to Calvert Green
The government's consultation roadshow event on the proposed HS2 rail scheme will come to Calvert Green Community Centre on Thursday 26th May.
The roadshow will give local people the opportunity to find out more about the project and discuss specific concerns with experts from HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport.
There will be maps and information available, including all the documents which were used to develop the proposals and the strategic thinking behind them. There will also be explanatory factsheets on a wide range of issues including local impacts and benefits. DVDs containing all the documents and maps will also be available.
All the information will also be available on the website http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/, with the documents also available as DVDs. The public can also contact the HS2 public enquiry team on 020 7944 4908 or hs2enquiries@hs2.gsi.gov.uk
The roadshow will be held on 26 May from 8am to 8pm at:
• Calvert Green Community Centre Car Park, Cotswolds Way, Calvert Green, Bucks, MK18 2FJ
Other roadshows are being held across the other areas affected by HS2 and there is a link to these details on the consultation website. The consultation is open until 29 July.
The roadshow will give local people the opportunity to find out more about the project and discuss specific concerns with experts from HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport.
There will be maps and information available, including all the documents which were used to develop the proposals and the strategic thinking behind them. There will also be explanatory factsheets on a wide range of issues including local impacts and benefits. DVDs containing all the documents and maps will also be available.
All the information will also be available on the website http://highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk/, with the documents also available as DVDs. The public can also contact the HS2 public enquiry team on 020 7944 4908 or hs2enquiries@hs2.gsi.gov.uk
The roadshow will be held on 26 May from 8am to 8pm at:
• Calvert Green Community Centre Car Park, Cotswolds Way, Calvert Green, Bucks, MK18 2FJ
Other roadshows are being held across the other areas affected by HS2 and there is a link to these details on the consultation website. The consultation is open until 29 July.
Gardens in East Claydon and Verney Junction open for charity
On Sunday May 29th three gardens in East Claydon and one in Verney Junction will be open for the National Garden Scheme. All proceeds go to charity.
Combined admission £4, children free. Opening times 2-6pm.
Homemade teas in the village hall.
Gardens Open in East Claydon:
9, Church Way (plants for sale)
Inglenooks
The Old Vicarage (plants for sale)
Garden open in Verney Junction:
3, Jubilee Cottages
For more information about the gardens and to see the charities supported by the NGS see The Yellow Book, or visit www.ngs.org.uk
Combined admission £4, children free. Opening times 2-6pm.
Homemade teas in the village hall.
Gardens Open in East Claydon:
9, Church Way (plants for sale)
Inglenooks
The Old Vicarage (plants for sale)
Garden open in Verney Junction:
3, Jubilee Cottages
For more information about the gardens and to see the charities supported by the NGS see The Yellow Book, or visit www.ngs.org.uk
Thursday 24 March 2011
Message to the Electors of Steeple Claydon Ward
It has been a great privilege to serve as your District Councillor for the last four years, and I would be very grateful for your vote to enable me to continue to do so in the forthcoming election on May 5th.
I care deeply about the quality of life for all the residents of the Claydons. If elected I will do everything I can to represent your interests. I have actively opposed both the proposed Energy From Waste incinerator at Calvert, and the High Speed Two plans (especially the proposals for a new infrastructure maintenance depot at Steeple Claydon), which threaten our rural way of life and the beauty of our countryside and villages.
I have lobbied hard to get our potholes fixed, our drains and pavements repaired, new salt bins installed, and our roads properly gritted in the winter. I have been closely involved in planning applications, to ensure that any new development is appropriate and sensitive to the area, and have supported plans to improve the amount of affordable housing available.
I have been happy to support successful grant applications for District Council funding to improve East and Botolph Claydon village hall, the planned new East and Botolph Claydon recreation ground and the Steeple Claydon skateboard park, and I am delighted that a popular local bakery was helped through the Council’s vital villages grant scheme.
It has been a great pleasure to be involved in so many events and activities in our villages over the last four years. The Big Society is active and thriving in the Claydons, with the local community taking over the running of its library with triumphant success, and with so many active village organisations including those caring for the elderly and providing activities for our young people. I have worked closely with our local PCSOs on issues such as illegal parking, vandalism, graffiti and anti social behaviour and feel that over this period there have been significant improvements.
As a member of the District Council I have had the honour for the past three years of
serving as Chairman of the Audit Committee, as well as on the Economy and Resources
scrutiny committees. I am proud of our many achievements, and that we have been able to freeze Council Tax this year despite severe budget pressures. In particular I have been involved closely in discussions on how we can best help the local economy through the recession, and support rural businesses and those who work from home.
We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the countryside. I grew up in Buckinghamshire and have lived in the area for the past twenty years. If elected I will do everything in my power to keep the Claydons a great place to live.
John Chilver
I care deeply about the quality of life for all the residents of the Claydons. If elected I will do everything I can to represent your interests. I have actively opposed both the proposed Energy From Waste incinerator at Calvert, and the High Speed Two plans (especially the proposals for a new infrastructure maintenance depot at Steeple Claydon), which threaten our rural way of life and the beauty of our countryside and villages.
I have lobbied hard to get our potholes fixed, our drains and pavements repaired, new salt bins installed, and our roads properly gritted in the winter. I have been closely involved in planning applications, to ensure that any new development is appropriate and sensitive to the area, and have supported plans to improve the amount of affordable housing available.
I have been happy to support successful grant applications for District Council funding to improve East and Botolph Claydon village hall, the planned new East and Botolph Claydon recreation ground and the Steeple Claydon skateboard park, and I am delighted that a popular local bakery was helped through the Council’s vital villages grant scheme.
It has been a great pleasure to be involved in so many events and activities in our villages over the last four years. The Big Society is active and thriving in the Claydons, with the local community taking over the running of its library with triumphant success, and with so many active village organisations including those caring for the elderly and providing activities for our young people. I have worked closely with our local PCSOs on issues such as illegal parking, vandalism, graffiti and anti social behaviour and feel that over this period there have been significant improvements.
As a member of the District Council I have had the honour for the past three years of
serving as Chairman of the Audit Committee, as well as on the Economy and Resources
scrutiny committees. I am proud of our many achievements, and that we have been able to freeze Council Tax this year despite severe budget pressures. In particular I have been involved closely in discussions on how we can best help the local economy through the recession, and support rural businesses and those who work from home.
We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the countryside. I grew up in Buckinghamshire and have lived in the area for the past twenty years. If elected I will do everything in my power to keep the Claydons a great place to live.
John Chilver
Friday 4 March 2011
Bridge over troubled railway...
At a recent Local Area Forum it was confirmed by Transport for Bucks that the bridge over the railway on the road leading to Twyford and Charndon will be closed for at least 18 months for structural repairs. There is apparently some uncertainty over the ownership of the adjacent land. Meanwhile a lot of traffic has been diverted along the road from Steeple Claydon to Calvert (Pond Lane)and a road which was already in a bad state has got a whole lot worse.
I reported it on the Transport For Bucks new online 'report a problem' service recently. Currently this is inaccessible - like the roads themselves it is apparently in need of repair.
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Error/error.aspx?aspxerrorpath=/Roadworks-Centre/Report-a-problem.aspx
I reported it on the Transport For Bucks new online 'report a problem' service recently. Currently this is inaccessible - like the roads themselves it is apparently in need of repair.
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Error/error.aspx?aspxerrorpath=/Roadworks-Centre/Report-a-problem.aspx
County Council reconfirms Calvert incinerator decision
Following the call in by our County Councillor John Cartwright, the decision to award the incinerator contract to WRG at Calvert was reconsidered by the County Council cabinet. On 28th Feb they decided to reconfirm the decision.
From the County Council website:
Energy from Waste - where we are now
On 28th February 2011, the County Council’s Cabinet decided that Energy from Waste was the best option to manage the county’s waste, as they reaffirmed their decision to award preferred bidder status to Waste Recycling Group (WRG) with their facility at Greatmoor, near Calvert, north Buckinghamshire.
This followed the Overview and Scrutiny Commissioning Committee’s recommendations for Cabinet to reconsider the decision to award preferred bidder status to WRG and to seek clarification on financial, legal and planning aspects of their bid. The project team prepared a detailed response to these recommendations, which were provided as part of the Cabinet papers.
WRG’s proposed facility at Greatmoor, near Calvert would supply 22MW of electricity to the national grid, enough to power up to 36,000 homes in the area. The Council expects the facility to be operating by 2014, subject to WRG gaining planning and permitting consents. The contract, once agreed, will be for a 30 year period.
The project team will now work with WRG to clarify and confirm commitments and undertake final due diligence. The final decision to award the contract will be considered by the County Council’s Cabinet in the autumn of this year.
The decision to award Preferred Bidder status to WRG has been a procurement decision, not a planning exercise. WRG’s planning application will be decided by the independent Development Control Committee.
This is disappointing but not unexpected. It was clear that the County Council had effectively made up its mind, despite the many valid objections raised. The focus of attention now shifts to the planning application, which is likely to be hotly contested.
From the County Council website:
Energy from Waste - where we are now
On 28th February 2011, the County Council’s Cabinet decided that Energy from Waste was the best option to manage the county’s waste, as they reaffirmed their decision to award preferred bidder status to Waste Recycling Group (WRG) with their facility at Greatmoor, near Calvert, north Buckinghamshire.
This followed the Overview and Scrutiny Commissioning Committee’s recommendations for Cabinet to reconsider the decision to award preferred bidder status to WRG and to seek clarification on financial, legal and planning aspects of their bid. The project team prepared a detailed response to these recommendations, which were provided as part of the Cabinet papers.
WRG’s proposed facility at Greatmoor, near Calvert would supply 22MW of electricity to the national grid, enough to power up to 36,000 homes in the area. The Council expects the facility to be operating by 2014, subject to WRG gaining planning and permitting consents. The contract, once agreed, will be for a 30 year period.
The project team will now work with WRG to clarify and confirm commitments and undertake final due diligence. The final decision to award the contract will be considered by the County Council’s Cabinet in the autumn of this year.
The decision to award Preferred Bidder status to WRG has been a procurement decision, not a planning exercise. WRG’s planning application will be decided by the independent Development Control Committee.
This is disappointing but not unexpected. It was clear that the County Council had effectively made up its mind, despite the many valid objections raised. The focus of attention now shifts to the planning application, which is likely to be hotly contested.
Friday 4 February 2011
Council Tax frozen for 2011/12
Aylesbury Vale District Council is freezing its share of council tax for the coming year despite the authority suffering a larger than expected drop in its grant funding from the government.
The zero per cent rise was agreed at a meeting of the full council on 2 February, meaning that local taxpayers will not face any increase on the average £2.52 a week they pay for all the services provided by AVDC.
Local authorities that accept the challenge of freezing council tax are eligible for a government grant equivalent to a 2.5 per cent increase in their element of the levy.
The 2011/12 budget was set against the national backdrop of unprecedented reductions in council grants to help tackle the UK’s current financial deficit.
The government’s grant settlement figures, issued to AVDC last December, were much worse than expected and mean a reduction in government funding of £2.6 million (22 per cent) for the next financial year with a further cut of £1.2 million (13 per cent) the following year.
Overall, the council faces an 8.4 per cent reduction in its total resources, the largest of any authority in Buckinghamshire.
Due to the severe financial constraints imposed on all local authorities by the government’s austerity measures, some difficult decisions have had to be made. But the council, which faces having to make even tougher decisions for the next three years, has done everything in its power to minimise the impact of the budget on frontline services.
To balance its books for the forthcoming financial year the council has identified around 1.8 million in savings across its services. Key savings include £650,000 made through restructuring some services and changes to the structure of the authority’s senior management team and a further £300,000 by making changes to working practices in the refuse and recycling service.
Councillors also approved making use of £445,000 from the authority’s financial reserves to help reduce the budget deficit. However, the reserves cannot be used to finance the shortfall indefinitely and significant savings will need to be found in subsequent years if key services are to be maintained.
It is anticipated that further savings of £2.6 million will need to be made by 2012/13 alone. The council’s priority is to continue to look for further efficiencies and find new ways of generating income.
Councillor Neil Blake, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “In common with all local authorities, this has been an extraordinary year for budget setting against the background of such deep cuts from the government. We have, however, worked hard to maintain essential frontline services, freeze council tax at present levels and identify significant cost savings to assist us with what will undoubtedly be a very difficult budget setting next year.”
He added: “It is important residents know we are on their side and always looking to ensure value for money. We continue to think carefully about how to spend the funds we have. It is residents’ money and they rightly expect results from it.”
The zero per cent rise was agreed at a meeting of the full council on 2 February, meaning that local taxpayers will not face any increase on the average £2.52 a week they pay for all the services provided by AVDC.
Local authorities that accept the challenge of freezing council tax are eligible for a government grant equivalent to a 2.5 per cent increase in their element of the levy.
The 2011/12 budget was set against the national backdrop of unprecedented reductions in council grants to help tackle the UK’s current financial deficit.
The government’s grant settlement figures, issued to AVDC last December, were much worse than expected and mean a reduction in government funding of £2.6 million (22 per cent) for the next financial year with a further cut of £1.2 million (13 per cent) the following year.
Overall, the council faces an 8.4 per cent reduction in its total resources, the largest of any authority in Buckinghamshire.
Due to the severe financial constraints imposed on all local authorities by the government’s austerity measures, some difficult decisions have had to be made. But the council, which faces having to make even tougher decisions for the next three years, has done everything in its power to minimise the impact of the budget on frontline services.
To balance its books for the forthcoming financial year the council has identified around 1.8 million in savings across its services. Key savings include £650,000 made through restructuring some services and changes to the structure of the authority’s senior management team and a further £300,000 by making changes to working practices in the refuse and recycling service.
Councillors also approved making use of £445,000 from the authority’s financial reserves to help reduce the budget deficit. However, the reserves cannot be used to finance the shortfall indefinitely and significant savings will need to be found in subsequent years if key services are to be maintained.
It is anticipated that further savings of £2.6 million will need to be made by 2012/13 alone. The council’s priority is to continue to look for further efficiencies and find new ways of generating income.
Councillor Neil Blake, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “In common with all local authorities, this has been an extraordinary year for budget setting against the background of such deep cuts from the government. We have, however, worked hard to maintain essential frontline services, freeze council tax at present levels and identify significant cost savings to assist us with what will undoubtedly be a very difficult budget setting next year.”
He added: “It is important residents know we are on their side and always looking to ensure value for money. We continue to think carefully about how to spend the funds we have. It is residents’ money and they rightly expect results from it.”
Monday 3 January 2011
Where are the gritting lorries ?
If you are running out of entertainment over the holiday season, you could always watch the progress of the gritting lorries on the County Council's brilliant new map
showing which roads are being gritted and where the lorries are:
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Winter-maintenance.aspx
And for the latest updates on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/twitgritter
showing which roads are being gritted and where the lorries are:
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Winter-maintenance.aspx
And for the latest updates on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/twitgritter
Department of Transport: more information on HS2 maintenance depot
The Department of Transport has issued new detailed information on the proposed size and scope of the infrastructure maintenance depot to be located near Steeple Claydon.
This can be found on their website at the following link:
http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/proposedroute/depot/
From the website:
'This report provides operational and engineering proposals to assist HS2 to identify the best possible location and the master layout of the Infrastructure Maintenance Depot (IMD) for the London to West Midlands HS2 route.
The report identifies a suitable site for the IMD and develops a master layout for the site, including both rail infrastructure and ancillary facilities such as office accommodation, services buildings, storage and lay down areas, staff parking, approach roads and other related items.'
There are 4 possible sites for the depot, all near the point where the new HS2 will
cross the East West Railway, planned to be operational by 2017. The preferred site
is adjacent to the East West railway to the north (west of the road from Steeple
Claydon to Calvert). This would have a major impact on the village and its surroundings.
More information on this location from the report:
Bounded to the South by the EWR line, to the West by HS2, and to
the North East by the chord line. The level of HS2 in this area is not finalised, but it is intended that it will run at level and the EWR line will be raised over it. This assumption means that the site could be level with relatively minor earthworks, though the former Great Central Main Line embankment would need to be removed.
Land take would be relatively modest, and would maximise use of land already sterilised by the construction of the chord line. The site could be accessed from the Northern section of the existing unclassified “Thame Road”, which in any case will require to be diverted because it crosses the EWR line at almost exactly the point where HS2 will intersect it.
The site is not adjacent to any properties. It appears that almost all the site could be constructed in one field running in an L shape from Claydon Junction to the HS2 route, though land ownership has not been researched. In the South West corner of the site between the East West “Thame Road” overbridge and the Great Central embankment there is a gas Pressure Reducing Station on the national gas network, owned by Scotia Networks Ltd. There does not appear to be a difficulty in designing a site layout that preserves this.
However the location of the associated gas pipelines has not yet been ascertained in a services search and this may present a project risk if the pipeline is found to restrict site layout options or operations.
One public footpath runs across the site, which will require closure or diversion.
Connections to HS2
Access to HS2 would be via the run round loop also required for waste trains from Bristol to Calvert, which would also act as headshunt for the site. A chord line would be constructed to the HS2 north, and trains to HS2 south could either use this chord and run round at the loops near Twyford village, or could use the existing east to south chord and access HS2 opposite the waste terminal.
For more information (and photos of the 4 locations being considered) please see the report on the DoT website.
This can be found on their website at the following link:
http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/proposedroute/depot/
From the website:
'This report provides operational and engineering proposals to assist HS2 to identify the best possible location and the master layout of the Infrastructure Maintenance Depot (IMD) for the London to West Midlands HS2 route.
The report identifies a suitable site for the IMD and develops a master layout for the site, including both rail infrastructure and ancillary facilities such as office accommodation, services buildings, storage and lay down areas, staff parking, approach roads and other related items.'
There are 4 possible sites for the depot, all near the point where the new HS2 will
cross the East West Railway, planned to be operational by 2017. The preferred site
is adjacent to the East West railway to the north (west of the road from Steeple
Claydon to Calvert). This would have a major impact on the village and its surroundings.
More information on this location from the report:
Bounded to the South by the EWR line, to the West by HS2, and to
the North East by the chord line. The level of HS2 in this area is not finalised, but it is intended that it will run at level and the EWR line will be raised over it. This assumption means that the site could be level with relatively minor earthworks, though the former Great Central Main Line embankment would need to be removed.
Land take would be relatively modest, and would maximise use of land already sterilised by the construction of the chord line. The site could be accessed from the Northern section of the existing unclassified “Thame Road”, which in any case will require to be diverted because it crosses the EWR line at almost exactly the point where HS2 will intersect it.
The site is not adjacent to any properties. It appears that almost all the site could be constructed in one field running in an L shape from Claydon Junction to the HS2 route, though land ownership has not been researched. In the South West corner of the site between the East West “Thame Road” overbridge and the Great Central embankment there is a gas Pressure Reducing Station on the national gas network, owned by Scotia Networks Ltd. There does not appear to be a difficulty in designing a site layout that preserves this.
However the location of the associated gas pipelines has not yet been ascertained in a services search and this may present a project risk if the pipeline is found to restrict site layout options or operations.
One public footpath runs across the site, which will require closure or diversion.
Connections to HS2
Access to HS2 would be via the run round loop also required for waste trains from Bristol to Calvert, which would also act as headshunt for the site. A chord line would be constructed to the HS2 north, and trains to HS2 south could either use this chord and run round at the loops near Twyford village, or could use the existing east to south chord and access HS2 opposite the waste terminal.
For more information (and photos of the 4 locations being considered) please see the report on the DoT website.
Refuse and recycling collection dates
From the AVDC website:
Revised refuse and recycling collection dates for this week:
Normal collection Revised collection
Monday 3 January Tuesday 4 January
Tuesday 4 January Wednesday 5 January
Wednesday 5 January Thursday 6 January
Thursday 6 January Friday 7 January
Friday 7 January Saturday 8 January
Residents with brown and green bins can put out either bin to be collected on their collection day.
If you have a lot of extra waste from Christmas that your want to get rid of, you can take your household waste to the nearest household waste and recycling centres in Aylesbury or Buckingham. The sites are open every day from 8am to 5pm (except 1 January).
To make sure you know the latest news about your collections, sign up to our text messaging service by texting: avdc sub, with your normal refuse collection day to 60060, (eg: avdc sub friday).
Revised refuse and recycling collection dates for this week:
Normal collection Revised collection
Monday 3 January Tuesday 4 January
Tuesday 4 January Wednesday 5 January
Wednesday 5 January Thursday 6 January
Thursday 6 January Friday 7 January
Friday 7 January Saturday 8 January
Residents with brown and green bins can put out either bin to be collected on their collection day.
If you have a lot of extra waste from Christmas that your want to get rid of, you can take your household waste to the nearest household waste and recycling centres in Aylesbury or Buckingham. The sites are open every day from 8am to 5pm (except 1 January).
To make sure you know the latest news about your collections, sign up to our text messaging service by texting: avdc sub, with your normal refuse collection day to 60060, (eg: avdc sub friday).
Calvert Incinerator decision to go to scrutiny on Jan 11th
Our County Councillor, John Cartwright, has successfully ensured that the County Council's decision to award the Energy From Waste contract to WRG for a new plant at Lower Greatmoor Farm, Edgcott, (near Calvert) will be reconsidered at a County Council Scrutiny Committee meeting on 11th January.
There is an opportunity for local residents to attend this meeting.
From the County Council website:
'Members of an Overview and Scrutiny Commissioning Committee will meet on Tuesday, January 11 to decide if Buckinghamshire County Council's Cabinet Members, should reconsider their decision to award preferred bidder status to Waste Recycling Group (WRG) to provide an Energy from Waste facility at Calvert.
County Councillor John Cartwright (Grendon Underwood) presented his case to call-in the decision at a scrutiny committee meeting on December 14 and members decided they needed to hear both sides of the case.
These will be presented by Councillor Martin Tett and Councillor John Cartwright, and witnesses, at the meeting on January 11 from 9.30am to 5pm at County Hall, Mezz Room 1, Aylesbury. Residents are welcome to attend.
Scrutiny committee chairman, Councillor Trevor Egleton said: "The call-in process is an important part of the transparent democratic process. The Committee decided that a special meeting should be held in January—rather than rushed before Christmas—so the public have the chance to attend. We have set the January 11 date, to ensure that committee members have the maximum possible time to understand the complex and technical background to the tendering decision.”
He also said if the scrutiny committee decides to refer the decision back to Cabinet, it can be reconsidered at the next Cabinet meeting on January 17.
There is an opportunity for local residents to attend this meeting.
From the County Council website:
'Members of an Overview and Scrutiny Commissioning Committee will meet on Tuesday, January 11 to decide if Buckinghamshire County Council's Cabinet Members, should reconsider their decision to award preferred bidder status to Waste Recycling Group (WRG) to provide an Energy from Waste facility at Calvert.
County Councillor John Cartwright (Grendon Underwood) presented his case to call-in the decision at a scrutiny committee meeting on December 14 and members decided they needed to hear both sides of the case.
These will be presented by Councillor Martin Tett and Councillor John Cartwright, and witnesses, at the meeting on January 11 from 9.30am to 5pm at County Hall, Mezz Room 1, Aylesbury. Residents are welcome to attend.
Scrutiny committee chairman, Councillor Trevor Egleton said: "The call-in process is an important part of the transparent democratic process. The Committee decided that a special meeting should be held in January—rather than rushed before Christmas—so the public have the chance to attend. We have set the January 11 date, to ensure that committee members have the maximum possible time to understand the complex and technical background to the tendering decision.”
He also said if the scrutiny committee decides to refer the decision back to Cabinet, it can be reconsidered at the next Cabinet meeting on January 17.
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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