Neighbourhood Plan Taking Shape

Neighbourhood Plan Taking Shape – Have Your Say!

Our village & parish life in our hands

Major consultation on issues and options launched

Over the next two months from March to end of April the West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group is holding an “issues and options” consultation which aims to present the issues and priorities for our community. This is an important stage as the next stage of the plan is to write a draft document and to submit this to the authorities for formal examination.

So please take part in way you can. Your choices are as follows:

Read the on-line pages and complete either a paper questionnaire (available in your March edition of the Village Bulletin or downloadable) or take the electronic survey.
Come to the parish annual meeting on 25th March (7:30pm) where you can hear about the consultation and have an opportunity to ask questions
Visit the exhibition which will be held at the Orpen Hall on two consecutive Saturdays in April (11th & 18th from 11am).
If you represent an organisation why not write to the Steering Group or better still invite them to onbe of your meetings to see how you might be affected and to allow you the chance to put forward your organisations’s priorities for the future.

Further details appear below.

Consultation Material

The following is available through this website:

Exhibition Material
A copy of the draft exhibition boards which explain the stage the Neighbourhood Plan has reached – an improved version of this material is in preparation.

A short leaflet to accompany the exhibition.

A paper based questionnaire to let us have your feedback.

An electronic questionnaire containing the same questions as the paper based version.

Your Village Future is in Your Hands – Lets Take Control Together

West Bergholt’s future for the next 30 years is being shaped and developed using a National planning scheme known as the Neighbourhood Plan. For the first time in our history the people of West Bergholt have the opportunity to shape our village future in terms of what is most important to us as residents and includes –

New homes – acceptable numbers and preferred locations
Sport and recreational facilities that meet future needs and where these should be located
Village hall enhancements that meet future needs and are environmentally sustainable
Ensuring our pre-school and primary school are not constrained by space. Provide the right environment to develop our future generations
Children’s play area enhancements to match the best in Essex
Improved footways, cycle ways and traffic safety plans that reflect a vibrant and interesting place to life.
Business enhancements – shaping the development of our existing business parks to reflect job creation, local needs and sustainability.

All these points and more must form part of our Neighbourhood Plan before it can be accepted as the model for our village future. This is our opportunity to state what we want to avoid our village future being determined by housing developers and/or external government bodies.

2015 will see the completion of the Neighbourhood Plan prior it being subject to a village wide referendum before it can be adopted.

The plan outline findings and the vision for the future compiled from surveys and questionnaires will be on display and discussed on

WEDNESDAY 25th March 2015 at 7.30pm in the Orpen Hall

at the Annual Parish Meeting.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend – refreshments provided.

Two other exhibitions will also be held at the Orpen Hall on:- Saturday April 11th and Saturday April 18^th, both from 11am. Choose which event will suit you best. Questionnaires will be available at all events for comment and to express your views for the final time on the future of West Bergholt.

Now is your unique opportunity to influence the development of the village over the next few decades.

January 19, 2015January 18, 2015

Colchester Local Plan Consultation

CBC is in the process of creating a ‘Local plan’ and have started the consultation process, The Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group will be responding to this consultation as will the Parish Council. A separate consultation on the Neighbourhood Plan is planned for the end of February to mid April. For those interested in contributing directly the Borough Council recently issued the following notice:

Colchester Borough Council has started work on its new Local Plan for the Borough covering the period 2017-2032.

The Planning Policy team will be running the Issues and Options Consultation from the 16 January 2015 until 27 February 2015 at the following locations:

Tiptree Community Centre – Saturday 7 February 2015 (10am-2pm)

Mersea Centre (MICA) – Wednesday 11 February 2015 (4pm-8pm)

Wivenhoe Scout & Guide Hut – Saturday 14 February 2015 (10am-2pm)

Hythe Community Centre – Monday 16 February 2015 (12 noon – 8pm)

Great Horkesley Village Hall – Saturday 31 January 2015 (10am – 2pm)

Marks Tey Village Hall – Saturday 21 February 2015 (10am-2pm)

In addition to the above drop in sessions there will also be additional consultation drop is sessions at Colchester Library (Saturday 17 January 2015 10am-2pm & Tuesday 27 January 2015 2pm-6pm) and at Asda (on 24 January 2015 10am-2pm).

For those interested in attending you might want to access some of the project teams documentation inn advance, if so please visit the Colchester Borough Council website.

May 15, 2014

Celebration of Local Volunteers

Celebrate Local Volunteers

Celebrating local volunteers is at the cornerstone of the upcoming Annual Parish Meeting on 21st May starting at 7pm in the John Lampon Hall (adjacent to Orpen Hall). Refreshments will also be available as will the opportunity to discuss other important issues for the Village such as:

Neighbourhood Plan – shape the future of the village; and
Emergency Plan.

April 22, 2014April 30, 2014

Neighbourhood Planning Progress Update

Introductory presentation to the meeting

Neighbourhood Planning Workshop

On 19th February the NP Steering Group held an open evening at which 30 people were in attendance. The aim was to draw together all the work to date including the results of the household surveys. The workshop posed the question:

what are the immediate next steps for the project?

To help answer this question delegates were split into three groups as follows:

West Bergholt Today: led by Andrew Savage – Output: Evidence Base for Neighbourhood Plan – Feb 2014
- What do we know about our community?
- Where might we get factual information?
- How might we use this information?
- How might we document our findings?
Our Environment: led by Brian Butcher – Output: Environment discussions for Neighbourhood Plan – Feb 2014
- What do we want to protect and enhance?
- Thinking about both built and natural environments
- Local policies needed to achieve this
West Bergholt Tomorrow: led by John Gilli-Ross – Output: Future Options discussed for Neighbourhood Plan – Feb 2014
- Change is inevitable but how can we plan for this?
- What is the survey telling us?
- Consider how we might approach housing and employment aspects of change
- What about other land use changes for sport, open space?
- How are we going to draw up scenarios and ideas for the community to look at?
- What are the ways of engaging communities on development and change?

The discussions produced a wide range of ideas and the three groups have agreed to continue to meet up to take forward priority items. Their notes are attached as is the Agenda and Slide Presentation. If anyone who missed out would like to get involved please don’t hesitate to contact either the Chairman Chris Stevenson or the publicity officer Murray Harlow – see contact details.

February 10, 2014February 10, 2014

Local Business? Neighbourhood Plan Team needs input

Our village & parish life in our hands

Local Business Survey

If you run a local business we need your help to shape the future of West Bergholt. Please take a few minutes to complete a questionnaire by clicking on:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WestBergholtNeighbourhoodPlanBusinessSurvey

Your response will be invaluable to assisting the production of a Neighbourhood Plan for our village and wider parish area. Neighbourhood Plans are fairly new and you may not have heard of them yet. They form part of Neighbourhood Planning which is a Government initiative which enables local communities to produce Development plans for their areas rather than for these to be produced by District Councils, in our case Colchester Borough Council.

So what exactly is Neighbourhood Planning?

Neighbourhood Planning is a new right for communities to create agreed policies and proposals for their localities. For us this will be for West Bergholt and surrounding Parish area.

The plan will be used to decide the future of the development of West Bergholt including answering the following :

where should new houses, shops or employment areas be built?
should they be built?
do we want further community assets and amenities?
should we preserve existing open spaces and provide more?
Aside from development aspects what other improvements do you want to see in areas such as traffic, policing, environmental improvements etc?

The list could be endless – but is nevertheless of vital importance and must be made and agreed by you.

Who is responsible for preparing the plan?

The Plan is sponsored by the Parish Council but the steering group overseeing the plan is drawn from the wider community and comprises 20 people drawn from all walks of life. A full listing of FAQs has been assembled on the village website, look for the Neighbourhood Plan tab.

In order to inform the NP a series of surveys is being conducted. We have already conducted a household community survey and a survey of younger people’s views is under way. However we recognise that the village and wider parish area has a large number of businesses and we are keen to get a view of your needs and concerns so that we can plan not just for community needs such as housing and amenities, but also the needs of businesses.

Please complete the on-line questionnaire by the end of February 2014. If you need to find out more please contact any of the following:

Contacts: Paul Downer ([antibot mailto=”[email protected]”]) Chris Stevenson ([antibot mailto=”[email protected]”]) Murray Harlow ([antibot mailto=”[email protected]”])

Supporting Local Businesses We look forward to reading your responses.

Are you listed on our Local Businesses Page – contact Murray Harlow (see above) if not?

January 28, 2014February 7, 2014

January Crime Report

January Crime Incidents

With the first couple of weeks seeing no reported crime in and around West Bergholt, the latter part saw little more:

Theft from a vehicle on the A12

Taking place on 13th January this involved a parked, secured, lorry on the A12, outside West Bergholt, which had the side curtains slashed and items removed. Probably of no more than passing interest to residents (sorry).

Criminal Damage to a Vehicle in Mumford Close

Overnight on 23rd January the rear nearside door of a car was dented by unknown person and object.

Criminal Damage to a Vehicle in Mumford Close

Overnight on 28th January an unknown person scratched the full length of both nearside and offside of a parked vehicle.

Theft from a Vehicle in Chapel Road

Overnight on 29th January an unknown person gained entry to an insecure vehicle and following a messy search removed items.

Information Releases

Essex Police often issue information & advice updates with their crime reports, the following few about Alarms, Burglary facts and Microsoft scams have recently been received.

Intruder Alarms and/or CCTV

Please note that Essex Police do not recommend any particular product or supplier.

If you are considering an intruder alarm system it is advisable to seek advice from installers who are members of a professional body, such as: –

National Security Inspectorate, Sentinel House, 5 Reform Road, Maidenhead SL6 8BY Telephone: (switchboard): 01628 637512 – www.nsi.org.uk
SSAIB The Smoke Houses, Cliffords Fort, North Shields, Tyne & Wear NE30 1JE Telephone: 0191 296 3242 – www.ssaib.co.uk
British Security Industry Association (BSIA), Kirkham House, John Comyn Drive, Worcester, WR3 7NS – Telephone 0845 389 3889 – www.bsia.co.uk

For other security products that have ‘Police Preferred Specification’ status visit Secured by Design – www.securedbydesign.com

Systems should be fitted to British/European Standards – www.bsi-global.com

Always get at least 3 different approved installers to give you quotes before you decide.

Systems can be monitored at special centres (Alarm Reporting Centres), for a fee. Reputable installers will give you more information on this, including an alternative option to link the alarm to alert mobile telephone numbers selected by you.

Essex Police respond to monitored alarm systems in accordance with guidelines issued by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) – www.acpo.police.uk Phone 020 7084 8950.

Generally, Non- monitored alarm systems are not responded to unless the person reporting the activation says that an intruder has actually been seen to enter or be on the premises.

The speed of police response cannot be guaranteed. It will depend upon the number, location and availability of police units when the call is received and a police assessment of the threat level.

DIY outlets often sell intruder alarm systems. However, bear in mind that these are normally non-monitored systems. False activations can annoy neighbours and result in action by the Environment department at your local council. If you have one of these systems you need a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member who lives close by and can deal with activations in your absence.

Some systems can be linked to your telephone and programmed to alert specific personal telephone numbers (normally up to 6) if activation occurs. Your telephone provider may make an extra rental charge for this facility. You will probably still need a trusted local person to respond in your absence.

Some mail order type companies market a whole range of alarms. You can see examples of these on web sites such as: –

www.solonsecurity.co.uk (Tel: 01352 762266)
www.jnemarketing.com (Tel: 01978 855054)
www.sure24.co.uk (Tel: 01949 836990)

(There are other providers).

Generally speaking, any intruder alarm is probably better than none. However, your choice should always be based on the following considerations: –

Is it appropriate?
Is it realistic?
Is it cost effective?
What am I trying to protect?

The above information is a basic summary of intruder alarm systems.

Burglary Facts – Did you know?

35% of all burglaries are crimes of opportunity, where the burglar lets themselves in through unlocked doors or windows.
You are ten times more likely to be burgled if you don’t have basic security – even something as simple as putting strong locks on your doors and windows will keep your house much safer.
Burglary has fallen by nearly 60% since 1995, but criminals are opportunists who will take advantage of any chance to steal from you, so you should remain aware.
Burglars generally prefer empty properties, often looking for visual clues such as an empty drive and dark homes so any lights, televisions and radios left on are usually off-putting for burglars.
A common tactic employed by homeowners to make the house look occupied, leaving the curtains closed, actually encourages burglars who believe it indicates the occupants are on holiday. If the property is going to be vacant for an extended period, ask a trusted neighbour to open and close curtains, collect milk from the door step, turn lights on and off, and remove unopened post that is visible etc. so that the property continues to look occupied.
Burglars are attracted by the sight of valuables, including car keys. They spot these by simply looking through windows and doors. Householders need to be careful about the type of goods that are on display.
Generally, burglars like to access property from the rear as it offers a safe environment. Having adequate fences and locked gates can make this a less inviting opportunity.

If you make your property more secure, it’s a lot harder for criminals to break in and it’s easier for police to catch them. For more crime prevention advice, go to http://essex.police.uk/be_safe.aspx.

Microsoft Cold Calling Scam

The Neighbourhood Watch Liaison Officer has been made aware that persons are cold calling by telephone offering computer repairs, stating your computer has a problem with Microsoft. Advice has been sought from Microsoft and they have given the following advice.

Neither Microsoft nor our partners make unsolicited phone calls (also known as cold calls) to charge you for computer security or software fixes.

They have advised that further information regarding how to avoid Phone scams can be found on the below website:

http://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/security/online-privacy/avoid-phone-scams.aspx

If anyone has been caught out by these types of callers they can report it directly to www.actionfraud.police.uk or by telephone 0300 1232040

August 16, 2013

Great responses to neighbourhood survey

Our village & parish life in our hands

The neighbourhood survey has resulted in around 450 replies representing around a third of all households! The Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group have issued the following update:

A Big “Thank you” to all who completed the:

Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire

The West Bergholt Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire which appeared in June’s Bulletin has been enthusiastically supported by residents in the village and wider parish area. Around 450 replies were received with a third being filled in on line via the link in the West Bergholt Website.

A big THANK YOU to all who filled it in; this represents about a third of all households who receive the Bulletin and means that the survey will be a representative sample of the community’s views. A big THANK YOU also to Ash’s, the doctor’s surgery and the Co-op for their willingness to have the collection boxes. The draws for the hamper and the voucher for the youngsters will be made shortly.

All the written comments have been read, and we will endeavour to incorporate them in our final analysis. That will now take place over the next few weeks with the Steering Group members busily collating and reading all responses. Without wanting to give too much away: traffic issues topped the list of concerns as it did with the previous Parish Plan survey.

The area of the Neighbourhood Plan has now also been ratified by the Borough Council. Following the end of the consultation on this matter and a recent Planning Committee, our plan area is now confirmed as corresponding to the existing Parish boundary.

We will keep you informed of the outcome of the questionnaire analysis via future Bulletins but the survey results are likely to be published initially on www.westbergholt.net. We will also endeavour to contact those that showed an interest in joining the Steering Group – but why not check the notice boards and come along to the next advertised meeting.

As ever please feel free to contact Chris Stevenson ([antibot mailto=”[email protected]”] or 01206 241708) or Murray Harlow ([antibot mailto=”[email protected]”] or 01206 240792) on any aspect of the plan and its preparation.

August 2, 2013June 7, 2023

Village Traffic Safety Plan

traffic safety plan for West Bergholt — Overview of part of the new plans – see below for full size copies

In response to issues raised by village residents in the Parish Plan of 2009 the Parish Council spent nearly two years consulting various parties before producing last year a Traffic Safety Plan for the village. The plan was endorsed by the Local Highways Panel and formed the basis for the funding for the projects under current consideration.

Early indications from the comments on the returned questionnaires from the whole village for the present Neighbourhood Plan are that the most pressing concerns of residents continue to centre on traffic issues, and in particular speeding and parking. The particular dangers are perceived to be in the areas leading up to the school and the Co-op, both of which provide vital services to the village. Clearly many would support actions to address these dangers.

The Parish Council is now actively pursuing the implementation of this Traffic Safety Plan and is engaged with Essex County Council (ECC) engineers in drawing up plans for safety works in New Church Road. These will inevitably involve some restrictions on the speed of traffic and parking. The Council is committed to ensuring that the measures have a positive impact by meeting the aims of the plan whilst at the same time considering the views of village residents. The intention is to create an environment where parents of older pupils at the school feel safe in allowing their children to walk, or even to cycle, to school unaccompanied thus removing the need to use their car. This clearly does not exist at the moment and to do nothing will not improve safety.

Set out below are the proposed measures for adoption recommended by the Parish Council. Any suggestions for changes will be considered before a final version is submitted to ECC Highways for the portfolio holder’s approval. Once obtained formal notices of the works to be carried out will be published by ECC.

No parking double yellow lines for 15m (the statutory length) at each junction with New Church Road. This will enable enforcement to be carried out by the relevant authorities.
A low level rectangular table at each end of New Church Road. The aim is to check driver speeds and raise awareness of potential pedestrian presence ahead. It is likely that low level lighting will be needed at these points – no specific plans are currently available.
Time restricted parking (single yellow line) for about 20m spanning the footpath from Mumford Close into New Church Road together with minor works to improve the crossing point. This is considered essential at school journey times to give children a clear view down the road.
Time restricted parking from the zig zags for 20m towards Lexden Road. Designed to give a clear view around the dangerous bend in the road.
Improved signage at the junctions of New Church Road with Chapel Road and Lexden Road and of School Lane with Colchester Road.

A composite plan and detailed plans for each of these works are shown below.

In addition to these measures the Parish Council is considering making an application for a 20mph speed limit in New Church Road and School Lane. This application is more likely to succeed if the above measures are implemented first. Please send your comments on the recommendation and the introduction of a 20mph speed limit to the Parish Clerk – Mrs Val Walsom, 17 Armoury Road, or preferably by email to [email protected].

July 5, 2013July 5, 2013

Latest Village News Online – Focus on Traffic Plan

Heathlands-Primary-Road-Markings — The Traffic Safety Plan focuses strongly on congestion around the school

The latest village news has been made available locally and is also posted here online together with other News Bulletins. As well as a reminder to respond to the neighbourhood plan survey, this issue draws attention to the West Bergholt Traffic Plan which was discussed at a Public Meeting on 4th July. All residents are encouraged to read the plan and those who attend Heathlands are strongly encouraged to consider walking to school wherever possible..

July 4, 2013

Neighbourhood survey on track, one last push needed

Our village & parish life in our hands
Click logo to complete survey.

The Neighbourhood Plan survey has drawn in an encouraging 300 responses to date, many of these online using the electronic survey. The Steering Group have a target of 500 responses in mind as this would represent about a third of all households. With this in mind the survey period has been extended to 19th July.

So if you haven’t responded yet, or if there are others in your household you could encourage to respond, please take the 10 minutes needed to complete the questionnaire ideally on line! If you prefer to respond on paper then remember the questionnaire was included as an insert in June’s Village Bulletin. If you need extra copies of the survey, the paper copy is also available to download here – WB HH Questionnaire ver 15.

Extra prize draw for under-18 survey respondents

Remember you can enter our prize draw with a chance to win a Co-op hamper! As an added incentive for younger members of the community to respond, we are creating a second prize of a £20 Amazon gift voucher available for respondents aged under 18.