Update on Energy from Waste initiative

The County Council have sent out an update on their Energy from Waste programme in August, with significant implications for the Calvert waste plant. Two of the three companies selected to tender for the new incinerator plant have been asked to proceed to a final tender. They are:

1. Covanta Energy - proposing an out of county site
2. Waste Recycling Group - proposal to develop their existing landfill site at Calvert

See the County Council website for more details. This includes the Minerals and Waste Local Plan and the Minerals and Waste Core Strategy. There is also a detailed Q&A section which will be added to as the process continues.

Go to the main page www.buckscc.gov.uk and click the FAQ on the banner, searching on key word 'waste'.

Bucks CC stresses that modern incinerators must conform to very stringent emission control standards and the power generated can be used or sold to benefit county council tax payers.

The final bid will be selected by the end of the year.

I am in close communication with my colleague Cllr Jackie Phipps (Marsh Gibbon) over these proposals, and we are agreed on the need to insist on improved road and rail access if the Calvert option is selected.

Romer Wood bridleway preserved

The news has recently come through that the appeal against the decision of the County Council not to upgrade the bridleway through Romer Wood near Botolph Claydon ('Three Points Lane') has been rejected by the Department of the Environment, and the County Council's original decision upheld. This is very good news, as it will preserve the character and environment of this important local area of woodland, part of the ancient Bernwood Forest. I for one am glad that our country walks with the dog through this lovely area will not be disturbed.

Sun shines at Village Fair

The weather was kind for the Steeple Claydon Village Fair on 12th July, held in the Recreation Ground. The theme was 'Cowboys and Indians' and a circle of wigwams added to the effect.
There were Wild West themed sideshows, including a shooting alley and bucking bronco and many excellent cowboy and indian costumes. Despite threatening clouds in the morning, the weather stayed fine and a great time was had by all. A special mention must be made of the Steeple Claydon Local History Society, who presented an excellent display of old photos and archives relating to village history.

Steeple Claydon Village Fayre 12th July

The annual Steeple Claydon Village Fayre takes place this Saturday 12th July in the Recreation Ground, starting at 12.00.

As in previous years, the day starts with a parade through the village starting at the Langston and Tasker coach depot on Buckingham Road at 11.00am. The parade finishes at the Recreation Ground around 12.00pm (when the floats and groups are judged) and then the Fayre begins.

There will be plenty of stalls, attractions, games and refreshments and it should be a great day out. Let's hope for a sunny day (it's been raining here continuously all day, so we're due for one)

Another warning from Thames Valley Police

Please be aware that an organisation called Support Direct are planning house to house charity collections around Aylesbury Vale between 30th June and 3rd August.
If you receive any calls about this, they have a police liaison person : John HARRIS. Phone, 0788 764 2828. Or there is a helpline which can be used to check ID of any suspicious persons : 0800 018 3584.

Message from Thames Valley Police: Country Watch

The following warning message has been circulated by Thames Valley Police:

Thames Valley Police are warning all owners of rural property to be aware that the theft of oil and diesel is on the increase, as well as quad bikes, power tools, hay and animal feed. The police ask that you report any suspicious vehicles in your area, with the make, colour and registration plate where possible, as well as a description of occupants. Be suspicious of anyone who cold calls asking about vehicles/animals for sale, lost dogs, grazing/livery enquiries, or selling any equipment/tools from the back of a van. Asking people to call back to see "the owner" at a more convenient time will sort out the genuine callers. Please phone any information to the police non-emergency number 08458 505505. If a crime is in progress, phone 999.
In a recent incident near Henley, two Irish males twice tried to sell power washers to a yard owner, and took a lot of interest in her horses. The vehicles involved were a red van and a maroon transit type van.
For information on crime prevention and securing your property, please contact your local neighbourhood watch office, who run Country watch, Farm watch and Horse watch schemes throughout the Thames Valley Police area.
Sent on behalf of Helen Evans
Thames Valley Horse Watch - 01494 736642

New Stage for East Claydon Village Hall

I was very pleased to be able to report to the East Claydon AGM in May that the District Council had approved a grant of £ 750 towards a new flexible stage for the Village Hall.
This will be a great facility for future concerts, functions and events, and will save having to borrow the stage from the School in future.
I was very happy to write a letter in support of this application, and am delighted that it was successful.