Donhead St Mary

Parish Plan 2008

1 CONTENTS

Page ACKNOWLEDGMENTS & GLOSSARY

3 Executive Summary This Parish Plan has been supported by Defra funding. Additional funding has been provided by Salisbury District Council and Donhead St Mary Parish Council 4 Objectives The Parish Plan Steering Group comprised: 4 Developing the Plan Jenny Boyd, Jan Duffield, Peter Duffield, Tim Goetz, James Hedges, Paul Hutchins, Fiona Johnson, Peter Lucas 5 Parish of Donhead St Mary (Chairman), Peter Pickford, Julian Prideaux, Christine Speak, Emily Scott, Jonathan Waddilove 8 Roads & Transport Support and encouragement was also provided by: 11 Housing & Planning Amber Skyring, Principal Community Development Officer, Salisbury District Council 13 Communication Marion Rayner, Community Development Manager, Community First 16 Employment & Business Jeane Barnes, Chairman, Donhead St Mary Parish Council

18 Community

Quotations in speech boxes are taken 19 Countryside, Wildlife, from parishioners’ comments made in the Landscape & Environment surveys conducted

21 Medical Facilities

21 Young People

22 Crime & Safety AONB Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 22 Next Steps DEFRA Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs 23 Summary of Actions PC Donhead St Mary Parish Council PCC Donhead St Mary Parochial Church Council RSC Donhead St Mary Road Safety Committee Back Donhead St Mary SDC Salisbury District Council Cover Parish Boundary SG Parish Plan Steering Group SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest TG Donhead St Mary Transport Group WCC Wiltshire County Council

Short Term By end 2009 Medium Term By end 2012 Long Term By end 2015

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background Results The Parish Plan is a document The consultations and Parish Donhead Digest and deliver that sets out a vision for how the Survey produced more it free to every household. A parish of Donhead St Mary sees comments about excessive community website www. itself developing in the next few speed of traffic, both along donheadstmary.org.uk years. It identifies activities to the A30 through Ludwell and has been developed for all to achieve this vision and people, through the lanes, than any use giving details of community groups and organisations who other topic. The local Road activities, shops, businesses, will carry out these actions. Safety Committee has already local news and Parish Council It has been underpinned by presented its findings to matters. extensive research within the Wiltshire County Council and People were surprised to community to establish the has had some, but not all, of learn that there are over 65 wants and the needs of as many its recommendations accepted. businesses within the parish. parishioners as possible. The Parish Plan urges that The Plan recommends action to all the recommendations be Parish Plans are a Government foster more local employment, implemented before a serious initiative that, through grants and the development of a mini accident occurs. It also and other forms of support, help chamber of commerce. suggests that the remit of the rural communities take action Road Safety Committee be Positive comments were made for themselves on local issues. expanded to include the whole about community spirit within the Salisbury District Council parish. parish, though people would like supports the development of this to see even more community Plan. Over half the people consulted activities. believe that the state of the In the summer of 2004 Donhead roads throughout the parish Not surprisingly, positive St Mary Parish Council is unacceptably poor. The comments were also expressed committed to the development Plan therefore recommends a about the countryside, wildlife, of a Parish Plan. There programme of inspection and landscape and environment. followed a Public Meeting in repair. The natural beauty of the parish the spring of 2005 at which is, for many, one of the main overwhelming support was given Affordable housing was reasons why people choose to for the Plan. At that meeting identified as an urgent issue live here, and many said that we a group of volunteers from the because house prices are too must preserve this. The Plan parish (the Steering Group) high for young people to afford, recommends that the Parish was formed to produce the and they are therefore forced Council should act in support Plan. Throughout the summer either to leave the parish or of this wish. Better recycling of 2005 several consultations live with their parents. The is recommended too, both with took place within the parish Community First initiative to kerbside collection and local at community events such as develop affordable housing in bins. the Summer Fête, the Craft the parish must therefore be and Dog Show, and the Village progressed more urgently. Access to medical facilities was Barbecue. This culminated in judged in the main to be good, The community as a whole the development of a Parish though with some complaints has a very poor opinion of the Survey Questionnaire that was about the appointment system at planning authorities and the distributed to every household the Shaftesbury GP practice. planning process, with many in the parish in December 2005. comments being made on how People generally feel safe in the 405 replies were received – 48% consultation and communication community, though they would of the population of the parish. should be better. The Plan like to see some more visible Following extensive analysis recommends that the Parish policing within the parish. of the information collected, Council should act to improve The Parish Plan contains an Open Meeting was held in this situation. details of all the foregoing, with April 2006 to feed back to the The parish would like to have reference to the issues at stake, community the results of the much more information about and with visions and specific Survey, to corroborate the data all that is going on within the actions proposed. collected thus far, and to seek community. The Donhead further views. This led to the Thanks are acknowledged to Digest and the internet are draft Plan being written and the Steering Group, the Parish identified as the most desired presented to the Parish Council Council, Salisbury District media. Work is already in hand for adoption in October 2006. Council and Community First. to enhance the content of the

3 OBJECTIVES

Parish Plans grew out of the The aim of the Parish Plan is to planning decisions by securing “Rural White Paper” published set out a comprehensive vision the adoption of the Parish by the Government in 2000. for how the community sees Plan, as Supplementary The concept was developed by itself developing in the next few Planning Guidance, including the Countryside Agency within years and to identify the actions the measures identified by the the “Vital Villages” scheme, needed to achieve and secure community to improve and offering a range of grants and this development. enhance the quality of the built advice to help rural communities environment. take action for themselves on It is intended to inform and issues like roads, transport influence a wide range of It is the voice of the community and community activities. This organisations, statutory bodies, in identifying and prioritising programme has now been agencies and individuals who parish needs, indicating what is taken over by DEFRA, and is in make decisions which affect the wanted, what is achievable and turn being supported by district lives of this rural community. what is relevant. councils throughout England. It should complement local Salisbury District Council has planning policies as set out in It is a stimulus for local action confirmed their support for the the Salisbury District Council on the part of the community to development of Parish Plans Local Development Plan. It is work with others to make things throughout South West Wiltshire. also intended to influence local happen.

To enable everyone within the community to have a voice in how the parish should develop. To preserve, enhance and develop the parish, ensuring a better quality of life for all who live here.

DEVELOPING THE PLAN In August 2004 the Parish The Steering Group met for the was held in the parish to feed Council received a presentation first time in May 2005 when, back to the community the from Amber Skyring, Principal following procedural matters results of the consultations and Community Development Officer to appoint a chairman, vice the Parish Survey in order to of Salisbury District Council, chairman and treasurer, a seek confirmation of the data on the parish plan process. It process for producing a parish and collect further information. was explained that SDC fully plan was agreed. supports the development of In September 2006 the draft parish plans, and that once Throughout the remainder Parish Plan was produced. The completed, the plan should be of the year work progressed proposals within the Plan are formally adopted by the Parish on consultations with the laid out in the form of Issues that Council. At this meeting the community at events and relate to the needs of the parish, Council voted to support the venues such as the Summer as confirmed by the Survey and development of a parish plan. Fête, the Gardening Club, the other consultations. For each Craft and Dog Show, the Village Issue, a Vision of how the Parish In March 2005 the Parish Barbecue, the Ludwell School wishes things to be is then Council held a Public Meeting in Ceilidh and the Horsehill Place outlined together with Actions, the parish to seek the support of Community Centre. A trial Partners and Timescales the community for the production Questionnaire was developed proposing how the Vision might of a parish plan. This support and tested in Birdbush. From be achieved. was given by an overwhelming this a full Parish Survey was majority of those attending the developed which was delivered In October 2006 the Parish meeting. At the same time to every household in the parish Plan was presented to the volunteers from the parish were in December 2005. A response Parish Council for adoption. sought to form a Steering Group of 48% was achieved. In February 2008 the Parish to work on the plan. Plan was formally adopted by In April 2006 an Open Meeting Salisbury District Council. 4 OBJECTIVES PARISH OF DONHEAD ST MARY

Parish Plans grew out of the The aim of the Parish Plan is to planning decisions by securing greensand is about 155m and in food. Some market

“Rural White Paper” published set out a comprehensive vision the adoption of the Parish the mainly C12th parish church gardeners sold vegetables as far by the Government in 2000. for how the community sees Plan, as Supplementary of St Mary the Virgin occupies away as Salisbury. Small shops The concept was developed by itself developing in the next few Planning Guidance, including a commanding position on a catered for everyday needs – the Countryside Agency within years and to identify the actions the measures identified by the greensand bluff. there was a tailor, garage, shops the “Vital Villages” scheme, needed to achieve and secure community to improve and and pubs scattered over the offering a range of grants and this development. enhance the quality of the built Ancient and medieval times parish. These have gradually advice to help rural communities environment. From earliest times the drier disappeared – the last shop take action for themselves on It is intended to inform and slopes, which were not thickly near St Mary’s church closed issues like roads, transport influence a wide range of It is the voice of the community wooded, afforded cultivatable in1983 – and nearly all shops land and easy route ways. and community activities. This organisations, statutory bodies, in identifying and prioritising and services are now found There is evidence of Bronze and programme has now been agencies and individuals who parish needs, indicating what is along the A30. Iron Age settlements in burial taken over by DEFRA, and is in make decisions which affect the wanted, what is achievable and grounds. A Roman road coming Farming today turn being supported by district lives of this rural community. what is relevant. from the south coast crossed councils throughout England. It should complement local The predominantly pastoral the chalk escarpment and can nature of the land strikes the eye Salisbury District Council has planning policies as set out in It is a stimulus for local action be traced along Dennis Lane immediately. Although some confirmed their support for the the Salisbury District Council on the part of the community to Location and through Lower Berrycourt fields have been joined together development of Parish Plans Local Development Plan. It is work with others to make things Donhead St Mary is the third Farm. It then crossed the river and those south of throughout South West Wiltshire. also intended to influence local happen. largest parish in England, with an and travelled north along the the A30 are large, most of the area of 2115 hectares, but with slopes below the church, leaving fields remain comparatively a scattered population of about the river to the east and exiting small and are bounded by the parish through the saddle 1200 it is almost entirely rural. hedges. Some eight farms between Donhead Cliff and Situated in the extreme south- still remain active although Barker’s Hill. west of Wiltshire, its west and the names of many houses south-west boundaries form the retain the word ‘Farm’. The Access to the chalk for cereals, county boundary with Dorset. It area farmed by each farmer the greensand for pasture is a typical English landscape, has increased as much land is and green crops, with nearby with rolling hills and hidden meadows and river water meant owned by landowners who rent valleys. that in medieval times Donhead it out to these existing farmers DEVELOPING THE PLAN was one of the richest parishes for pasture, silage and hay. The parish includes the villages in Wiltshire. The existence Increased use of machinery and hamlets of Wincombe, part of at least four mills in recent has meant that most farmers of Gutch Common, Donhead historical times along the employ few or no extra workers, St Mary, part of Brook Waters, Nadder within Donhead St Mary relying on contractors to do Birdbush, Ludwell, Charlton, suggests that grain was milled much of the work. Dairy farming Lower, Middle and Higher locally and probably consumed has declined since the 1990s Coombe, and extends south within a short distance. Spring and the land is used for hay to one mile from Ashmore and water in the Ludwell area was or silage, cereals, beef cattle, Tollard Royal. and is still used for watercress. horses and sometimes sheep.

Rock types and relief Land ownership Population and Settlement. In the south, the north-facing Shaftesbury Abbey owned The population was initially chalk escarpment rises to much of the parish from the concentrated into small hamlets 277m at Win Green. Travelling 10th to 16th centuries, and at its of 6 ‑ 8 houses, usually at northwards the greensand slopes dissolution its land was given a road junction e.g. Lillies are cut into by the headwaters to Lord Arundell whose heirs Green. Small ‘one up, one of the river Nadder exposing the and successors still own land down’ cottages built of local th gault clay. The Nadder rises in around Wardour Castle. In C19 green stone were interspersed th the west and south-west of the and C20 they sold much of the with larger farmhouses. Most parish, flowing first east and land for farming and housing were thatched but many were then north-east. It leaves the development. There were also eventually tiled. There is no parish at a height of 110m and other large landowners who ‘stately home’ in the parish but eventually merges with the rented land to small farmers. several larger houses, such as Donhead Hall, Wincombe Avon near Salisbury. House, Charlton House, were The highest point of the Until the early 1950s the parish was more or less self-sufficient built by local gentry.

5 PARISH OF DONHEAD ST MARY

After 1945 farm workers started How long have people lived in the parish? to move into council houses. The small stone cottages they left were often joined together to less than 1 year make bigger dwellings. These 1 to 5 have been eagerly bought up by incomers. Some houses or 6 to 15 extensions were built of red brick and later of reconstituted stone, 16 to 25 which fits into the landscape 26+ more harmoniously. Many new houses were built in the 1970s 25% and the last 25 years have seen an influx of people. The 8% Women’s Institute survey of 2000 showed that 60% of those resident in the area of Donhead surveyed, arrived in this period and exactly half the population was retired. Only about 20% said their families had been 16% 17% resident before 1950.

The 2001 census showed that the total population of the parish was 1,221 (477 male and 744 female) with an average age of 39. The average age is surprising given that the parish is sometimes viewed as 34% a retirement community. Only 18% of the parish was shown as being 65 or over. It also reported that the total number of dwellings was 475. The current Source: Parish Survey Electoral Roll shows that there are 836 people eligible to vote.

6 PARISH OF DONHEAD ST MARY PARISH OF DONHEAD ST MARY

After 1945 farm workers started How long have people lived in the parish? Routeways to move into council houses. Until the end of C18th the east- How do we use local business? The small stone cottages they west route connecting left were often joined together to Shaftesbury with Salisbury ran make bigger dwellings. These along the chalk tops and for Ludwell 93 have been eagerly bought up part of its way was called the Stores by incomers. Some houses or Ox Drove. Much of the trade in Five Square medieval times was in animals 81 extensions were built of red brick Motors and later of reconstituted stone, for meat and leather. The modern main road, the A30, which fits into the landscape Buttlings 76 more harmoniously. Many new from London to Exeter runs houses were built in the 1970s along the lowest slopes of the and the last 25 years have Chalk and divides the parish SPAR 56 seen an influx of people. The into two halves. It carries much long distance traffic of heavy Women’s Institute survey of Grove Arms 53 2000 showed that 60% of those lorries and fast-moving cars as resident in the area of Donhead well as providing a focus for Greenacre 49 surveyed, arrived in this period local shopping in Ludwell. With Farm Shop and exactly half the population widespread ownership of cars was retired. Only about 20% people now depend on larger Rising Sun 27 said their families had been centres such as Shaftesbury and resident before 1950. Tisbury, and travel to Salisbury, North Down 13 Southampton, Bournemouth, Farm (closed) The 2001 census showed Bath and Yeovil for a wider that the total population of the selection of shops. 0 20 40 60 80 100 % parish was 1,221 (477 male and Shops, Pubs & Local Facilities 744 female) with an average The parish is fortunate in having Source: Parish Survey age of 39. The average age a very popular village shop and is surprising given that the Post Office, a butcher, a farm The chart above confirms the popularity of the village shop, the parish is sometimes viewed as shop, two pubs, and a garage a retirement community. Only butcher and the garage, and their usage shows how important they with an adjoining convenience are to the community. 18% of the parish was shown store. as being 65 or over. It also reported that the total number of dwellings was 475. The current Source: Parish Survey Electoral Roll shows that there are 836 people eligible to vote.

7 ROADS & TRANSPORT

THE ISSUES ROADS & TRANSPORT POLICY STATEMENT • speeding traffic and The Parish needs: road safety • sensitively designed and locally acceptable measures to secure a • poor road reduction in traffic speeds and to improve road safety maintenance • regular road surveys and appropriate repair and maintenance • parking • additional parking facilities to serve local shops • low use of public • better availability and promotion of the Wilts & Dorset, Tisbus and transport Wigglybus services • high car dependence • the development and promotion of car-sharing schemes

Background Motors and St Mary’s School, Problems with potholes, manhole and many other road junctions. covers, damaged banks The parish is served by a network and verges, blocked drains, of minor roads and country lanes, As an additional safety measure untrimmed hedges, flooding and some of which are so narrow as 62% said they would like to have excessive mud on the roads were to limit access by large vehicles. a pedestrian crossing, ideally all mentioned. Much damage It is also split by the main A30 between St John’s church and was blamed on excessively large Salisbury to Shaftesbury road that the New Remembrance Hall. vehicles. carries a heavy volume of private and commercial traffic. We want a Pelican Potholes, mud, broken crossing at crossroads by verges everywhere Charlton church

Areas of concern included Rest of the Parish – Significant Watery Lane, the Coombes, numbers think that traffic is too North Down Road, Fiveways, fast on many other roads and Parhams Lane, Cats Hill Lane, lanes through the parish, with Lower Wincombe Lane, Church Coronation Drive, Front Horsehill Hill and Dennis Lane. Lane, Church Hill, Peckons Hill, Dennis Lane and Charlton Lane Parking being most mentioned. There Considerable concern was was also much adverse comment expressed about the lack of about the number of HGVs, very sufficient parking for the shops in Traffic Speed & Road Safety large tractors and other large Ludwell. Poor parking for the two The Parish Survey produced vehicles using unsuitable minor churches and St Mary’s village more adverse comments (76%) roads in the parish, often as short hall was also cited. Mention about excessive speed of traffic cuts. was made of the limited access than any other topic. As a consequence of this, for emergency services to Coronation Drive. A30 – Many people (48%) many comments were made said that the speed of traffic is about the danger to other Public Transport excessive along the entire length drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and horse‑riders. Reference Only 19% currently use public of the A30 through the parish, transport, though 45% said they with the section past the shops in was also made to the damage to buildings from collisions or would use local buses if services Ludwell attracting most adverse were improved and promoted comment. vibration. Comment was made about the excessive traffic noise. better. Young people commented

Traffic speed causes In total 63% were worried about that they would like to see better the house to shake day road safety. late night public transport to large and night towns. Road Conditions Car Ownership 56% of those consulted Other areas of concern include believe that the state of the There is a very high car the A30/Coronation Drive/ roads throughout the parish is dependence in the parish with Charlton Lane crossroads, the unacceptably poor. only 9% of households not entrances to Five Square having a motorised vehicle. 8 ROADS & TRANSPORT ROADS & TRANSPORT VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE THE ISSUES ROADS & TRANSPORT POLICY STATEMENT A reduction in vehicle speeds PC to commission a WCC, PC, Short term • speeding traffic and along the A30 through Ludwell, comprehensive study of the RSC, police The Parish needs: road safety and safer road crossings vehicle speed and road safety and local • sensitively designed and locally acceptable measures to secure a • poor road issues with recommendations residents reduction in traffic speeds and to improve road safety maintenance for action (see Road Safety • regular road surveys and appropriate repair and maintenance • parking Committee below), all of which • additional parking facilities to serve local shops • low use of public to be adopted by WCC • better availability and promotion of the Wilts & Dorset, Tisbus and transport Wigglybus services • high car dependence A reduction in vehicle speeds Remit of Road Safety WCC, PC, Medium to long • the development and promotion of car-sharing schemes throughout the rest of the parish Committee to be expanded to RSC, police term appropriate to the nature of the cover the rest of the parish and local Background Motors and St Mary’s School, Problems with potholes, manhole roads residents and many other road junctions. covers, damaged banks The parish is served by a network and verges, blocked drains, of minor roads and country lanes, As an additional safety measure A restriction on access for large Remit of Road Safety WCC, PC, Medium to long untrimmed hedges, flooding and some of which are so narrow as 62% said they would like to have vehicles on certain minor roads in Committee to be expanded to RSC and local term excessive mud on the roads were to limit access by large vehicles. a pedestrian crossing, ideally the parish explore restricted access on residents all mentioned. Much damage It is also split by the main A30 between St John’s church and certain minor roads was blamed on excessively large Salisbury to Shaftesbury road that the New Remembrance Hall. vehicles. carries a heavy volume of private A well-planned programme of PC to liaise with WCC to PC and WCC Medium to long and commercial traffic. road surveys and inspections, agree a programme of term fully communicated to the parish, inspections and repair that resulting in proper repair and meets the needs of, and is maintenance communicated to, the parish

Areas of concern included Sufficient and safe car parking Road Safety Committee to RSC, WCC Long term Rest of the Parish – Significant Watery Lane, the Coombes, numbers think that traffic is too spaces for the shops in Ludwell survey the areas concerned to and local North Down Road, Fiveways, ascertain if there is scope for residents fast on many other roads and Parhams Lane, Cats Hill Lane, lanes through the parish, with improvement by purchase of Lower Wincombe Lane, Church land if necessary Coronation Drive, Front Horsehill Hill and Dennis Lane. Lane, Church Hill, Peckons Hill, Well-promoted and well-used local Establish a Transport Group TG, Wilts Short term Parking Dennis Lane and Charlton Lane bus services that meet the needs to liaise with Wilts & Dorset, & Dorset, being most mentioned. There Considerable concern was of the parish Tisbus and Wigglybus services Tisbus and was also much adverse comment expressed about the lack of to promote local public Wigglybus about the number of HGVs, very sufficient parking for the shops in transport Traffic Speed & Road Safety large tractors and other large Ludwell. Poor parking for the two The Parish Survey produced vehicles using unsuitable minor churches and St Mary’s village The active promotion of car Tisbury Link Community Tisbury Link Short to medium more adverse comments (76%) roads in the parish, often as short hall was also cited. Mention sharing and ‘car help’ schemes Transport scheme to be and TG term about excessive speed of traffic cuts. was made of the limited access that result in a real reduction in promoted more widely. than any other topic. As a consequence of this, for emergency services to local traffic Transport Group to research Coronation Drive. and promote car-sharing A30 – Many people (48%) many comments were made about the danger to other Public Transport said that the speed of traffic is ROAD SAFETY COMMITTEE excessive along the entire length drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and horse‑riders. Reference Only 19% currently use public At the request of the Parish Council, on 1 November 2005 a of the A30 through the parish, transport, though 45% said they Dennis Lane too narrow with the section past the shops in was also made to the damage committee of local residents, with strong representation from the for big lorries to buildings from collisions or would use local buses if services Parish Council, met to discuss the traffic problem around the Ludwell attracting most adverse were improved and promoted comment. vibration. Comment was made village of Ludwell. This Road Safety Committee, advised by both about the excessive traffic noise. better. Young people commented Wiltshire County Council Roads Department and Wiltshire Traffic In total 63% were worried about that they would like to see better Police, conducted extensive research into the volume of traffic road safety. late night public transport to large and vehicle speeds through the village, the consequent vibration Too much heavy traffic towns. damage to properties and the wider issues of road safety throughout Road Conditions going too fast Car Ownership the community. The aim of the Road Safety Committee was to 56% of those consulted recommend safety improvements for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists There is a very high car Other areas of concern include believe that the state of the and horse-riders on the A30 and also on Dennis Lane. the A30/Coronation Drive/ roads throughout the parish is dependence in the parish with Charlton Lane crossroads, the unacceptably poor. only 9% of households not entrances to Five Square having a motorised vehicle. 9 ROADS & TRANSPORT

ROAD SAFETY COMMITTEE (continued) In February 2006 a comprehensive report was issued by the Road Safety Committee, with the full backing of the Parish Council, that in summary proposed the following: • Ensure routine maintenance of existing traffic controls is undertaken • 40mph and 30mph speed restriction zones along the A30 to be extended, together with new 40mph and 30mph speed restriction zones throughout the parish • “Full Gate” entry points, i.e. village entrance signs, speed restriction signs and red painted traffic calming markings at 3 main locations • Traffic calming pinch points • New pedestrian crossing across the A30 between St John’s church and the New Remembrance Hall • New footways This report was presented in full by the Parish Council to the Environmental Advisory Panel of Wiltshire County Council on 22 March 2006. A reply dated 31 March 2006 from the County Council has confirmed: • Maintenance issues will be addressed • Approval of the proposed alterations to the 40mph and 30mph speed restrictions on the A30 in Ludwell • Gateway treatment will be installed at the speed limit terminal points during 2006/07 • Traffic calming recommendations were not approved for implementation in 2006/07 but will be reassessed at a later date • The appropriateness of a new pedestrian crossing will be assessed • Minor signing and road marking will be assessed and appropriate action taken in 2006/07

In view of the fact that speeding traffic in the parish is of such a major concern to the whole community, as evidenced by the data collected by both the Road Safety Committee and the Parish Plan process, it is extremely worrying that the Environmental Advisory Panel of Wiltshire County Council has failed to recommend implementation of all the RSC’s proposals. Action on all these proposals should be taken as a matter of urgency before a serious accident occurs.

10 HOUSING & PLANNING

THE ISSUES HOUSING & PLANNING POLICY STATEMENT • no low cost housing The Parish needs: available for young • the development of affordable housing to meet the requirements local people of young local people and to ensure a balance in the age mix • poor planning, • clear and open consultation and communication on all planning consultation and matters, using modern and effective communication methods communication • development to be limited, sensitive and sympathetic to the • concern about new environment so that it blends well with existing houses and the development landscape

Background The older houses are built of requirement because: local greenstone and many are • house prices are too high for There are 473 homes listed in the thatched. Some of the modern young people and first time Electoral Register. In addition houses are built of greenstone buyers to afford there are some second homes, and others of reconstructed stone • young people are forced and a few unoccupied houses. In or brick. Apart from two small either to live with their total there are approximately 500 blocks of houses built within parents or leave the parish; homes in the parish ranging from the last three years in Ludwell, ‘pushed’ or ‘driven out’ were a large country house and estate, and one new block at the top of comments made Donhead Hall, through to small Front Horsehill Lane, all other • it would ensure a balance thatched cottages. development in the last 30 years of people across the age has been individual houses, groups. Respondents said many as infill, plus extensions to ‘it is very important to stop existing houses. the place becoming a middle class ghetto’ and ‘affordable New development is limited housing ……to prevent the because: parish becoming a privileged • all of the parish is within the enclave’ Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of

Outstanding Natural Beauty Affordable homes and part of the parish is a for local people are conservation area desperately needed • the terrain to the north of the The largest concentration of A30 is hilly with tight valleys 81% of respondents to the houses and bungalows was and is therefore difficult Community First survey built by the Council during the country in which to build any supported the building of 1950s just off the A30 at the top estates of new houses affordable housing. The survey of Ludwell Hill – the Coronation • public transport, except identified 12 families who have Drive estate. These homes, along the A30, is extremely left the parish due to a lack of together with a smaller estate of limited. The shops, public affordable housing. The survey Council-built houses in Birdbush, houses and garage are also has proposed that a total of make up approximately 27% of on the A30. The building 34 new houses, bungalows or the housing stock in the parish. of affordable houses away flats may be needed for the Many of these houses have now from the A30 could cause parishes of Donhead St Mary and been sold off to private owners. the occupiers to be isolated Donhead St Andrew. All the other housing is in private unless they have private hands, either owner-occupied or transport The Parish Survey also revealed: rented out. At present there are • a very widely held view Housing no Housing Association homes in that there should be no the parish. Both the Parish Survey and major new building within the Community First Survey the parish and that, apart (see Note 1 overleaf) identified from the need for affordable affordable housing, for purchase housing, the parish should (shared ownership) or rental, as remain the same size being the main new housing 11 HOUSING & PLANNING Planning and Consultation Local councillors should • opinions that any new From the Parish Survey it appears seek our opinion when houses, extensions that the community as a whole has planning applications in our to existing houses, or a very poor opinion of the planning neighbourhood are being conversions of redundant authorities and the planning decided. agricultural buildings into process. Alterations to approved houses, should be in plans appear to be made during keeping with the existing building without reference to SDC. materials and architecture

and blend into the Better communication • better control is needed landscape with local residents on all to prevent changes being • a desire to retain the planning matters. made to plans that have unspoilt nature of the parish already been approved • concern that recent new • the planning authorities developments did not fit into 40% of respondents commented at Salisbury District the landscape due to being on how consultation and Council are prepared too large or too high communication could be to approve applications • a minority view that no improved. These suggestions are without considering how more housing at all should covered in the Communication the buildings will fit into be built in the parish due section of the Parish Plan (see the landscape and overall to the volume of housing pages 15 to 17). ambiance of the parish proposed for Shaftesbury. 35% of respondents made There is a fear that this new development will have a adverse comments, a summary of Only allow development major negative impact on the main points being: on a scale and density the parish • lack of consultation and appropriate to the area communication with the community

VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE A small development of affordable Already started in the form of Community Medium to long housing specifically for local young the Community First initiative. First, SDC, term people PC to push for more rapid PC and local progress and visible results of landowners the work conducted to date Regular, clear and accessible Establish a Communications PC, SG and Short term reporting of all Parish Council Group to liaise with PC Communica- matters, with particular reference to agree how best to tions Group to planning applications communicate planning information A diversity of housing that SG and PC to request SDC SDC, PC and Short term complements the environment and to adopt the Parish Plan as SG respects the historical heritage of Supplementary Planning the area. New housing limited to Guidance to the Local village infill Development Plan

Note 1: Donhead St Mary and Donhead St Andrew Parishes Housing Needs Survey Report by Community First dated April 2005. The aim of this survey was: • to investigate the affordable housing need for local people (or those who have a need to live in the parish or the locality) • ‘housing need’ can be defined as the need for an individual or household to obtain housing which is suitable to the circumstances. It implies that there are problems or limitations with the household’s current housing arrangements and that the household is unable to afford or to access suitable accommodation in the private sector. Such problems may be concerned with housing costs, size, location, layout, state of repair, or security of tenure. This need may be immediate or anticipated in the near future

12 HOUSING & PLANNING COMMUNICATION Planning and Consultation • opinions that any new From the Parish Survey it appears THE ISSUES COMMUNICATION POLICY STATEMENT • poor communication houses, extensions that the community as a whole has The Parish needs: on many matters of to existing houses, or a very poor opinion of the planning • clear, modern, up-to-date, widely available and ideally free interest within the conversions of redundant authorities and the planning methods to inform the community on a regular basis all that is parish agricultural buildings into process. Alterations to approved interesting and important going on in the area houses, should be in plans appear to be made during keeping with the existing building without reference to SDC. materials and architecture Background and blend into the • better control is needed landscape The communication action theme emerged from comments received to prevent changes being • a desire to retain the at the various parish events and from the Parish Survey. Analysis of made to plans that have unspoilt nature of the parish these remarks showed that communication is a major concern. already been approved • concern that recent new • the planning authorities With over 16 clubs and societies in the parish, the Survey revealed developments did not fit into 40% of respondents commented at Salisbury District that only 19% of respondents knew about 6 or more of them confirming the landscape due to being on how consultation and Council are prepared from this perspective that communication is an issue. The survey too large or too high communication could be to approve applications asked a specific question on how people would like to receive • a minority view that no improved. These suggestions are without considering how information about these activities: more housing at all should covered in the Communication the buildings will fit into be built in the parish due section of the Parish Plan (see the landscape and overall How best would you like to receive information about sport, to the volume of housing pages 15 to 17). ambiance of the parish recreational & social activities? proposed for Shaftesbury. 100 There is a fear that this new 35% of respondents made 90 adverse comments, a summary of 80 development will have a 70 major negative impact on the main points being: 60 50 the parish • lack of consultation and 40 communication with the 30 20 community 10 0 Post Internet Newsletter Local Paper Donhead Notice Local shops Telegraph Digest Boards poles VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE A small development of affordable Already started in the form of Community Medium to long Grouping together Newsletter, Local Paper and Donhead Digest shows housing specifically for local young the Community First initiative. First, SDC, term Parish Council should keep that 51% in total would like a ‘news’ type of communication. people PC to push for more rapid PC and local us better informed progress and visible results of landowners Communication the work conducted to date Prompted by the above, all the comments and issues noted in the Regular, clear and accessible Establish a Communications PC, SG and Short term Survey across all the action themes were analysed and any which reporting of all Parish Council Group to liaise with PC Communica- linked to communication extracted. A total of 100 comments further matters, with particular reference to agree how best to tions Group revealed that the parish needs to improve communication: to planning applications communicate planning Listen to what information Comments concerning people in the area A diversity of housing that SG and PC to request SDC SDC, PC and Short term Communication have to say complements the environment and to adopt the Parish Plan as SG 70 respects the historical heritage of Supplementary Planning 60 the area. New housing limited to Guidance to the Local 50 village infill Development Plan 40 30 20 Note 1: Donhead St Mary and Donhead St Andrew Parishes Housing Needs Survey Report by Community First dated April 2005. The aim of this survey was: 10 • to investigate the affordable housing need for local people (or those who have a need to live in the parish or the locality) 0 Planning Housing Issues Community Dislikes Change Other • ‘housing need’ can be defined as the need for an individual or household to obtain housing which is suitable to the circumstances. Concerns It implies that there are problems or limitations with the household’s current housing arrangements and that the household is unable to afford or to access suitable accommodation in the private sector. Such problems may be concerned with housing costs, size, location, layout, state of repair, or security of tenure. This need may be immediate or anticipated in the near 75% of comments related to planning and housing concerns and future the need to improve communication to local residents. People want more open consultation, accounting for local views with details of new planning applications being more widely circulated.

13 COMMUNICATION

Many suggestions were made as to how communication on planning matters could be improved as follows:

Planning Communication

18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Blackmore Parish Council Internet Noticeboards Vale Donhead Letters / Meetings Magazine Digest Leaflets

More open It was generally felt that the Parish Council needed to communicate consultation more openly and effectively regarding planning issues as this would lead to less concern about planning consents given. The Donhead Digest was the most popular method of communication, with other support being offered for letters & leaflets, the internet and noticeboards. More local functions and A sizeable minority wanted better communication about local communication of these activities, events, clubs and societies. Several newcomers to the to households parish mentioned that it was not always easy to find out information about local clubs and events. Better communication about community events would help newcomers feel more welcome. The Open Day on 8 April 2006 was then used to canvas opinions on the preferred forms of communication on all parish matters. All attendees were invited to nominate up to two methods of communication with results as follows:

Preferred methods of Communication

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 Internet Access 0 Donhead Internet Blackmore Vale Noticeboards Leaflets Meetings Digest Magazine

A clear majority preferred the Donhead Digest, closely followed by an internet solution. These two methods would appear to be the best combination as they cater for both computer users and non-computer users. Additional comments were received regarding the Donhead Digest as follows: • would be more relevant if produced monthly • needs updating and modernising • should be less Church-orientated • needs more publicity since some respondents had never heard of it despite living in the parish for many years

14 COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION

Many suggestions were made as to how communication on planning matters could be improved as follows:

It was generally felt that the Parish Council needed to communicate more openly and effectively regarding planning issues as this would lead to less concern about planning consents given. The Donhead Digest was the most popular method of communication, with other support being offered for letters & leaflets, the internet and noticeboards. A sizeable minority wanted better communication about local Parish Plan Open Day April 2006 activities, events, clubs and societies. Several newcomers to the parish mentioned that it was not always easy to find out information about local clubs and events. Better communication about community VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE events would help newcomers feel more welcome. A revitalised Donhead Digest, Mike Montgomery to liaise Mike Short to The Open Day on 8 April 2006 was then used to canvas opinions issued monthly, free to the whole with publisher and printer Montgomery, medium term on the preferred forms of communication on all parish matters. parish, that is both interesting to define a new strategy PCC, local All attendees were invited to nominate up to two methods of and relevant to the community. It and implementation plan to residents and communication with results as follows: should include information on all develop the Donhead Digest. those with events and activities as well as a Form a Communications expertise in full description of current Parish Group to support this strategy communication Council matters and publishing Linked and produced in SG to investigate and assess SDC, G Lerner, Short to conjunction with the Donhead SDC South Wilts Community J Waddilove medium term Digest, a community website Web. Develop own community and local that provides a similar level of website residents with information as that provided above web expertise

Donhead Digest Internet Access A strategy and plan has already been put in place to develop the Donhead Digest. There is a vision that it should be free to every household in Donhead St Mary and Donhead St Andrew. At the same time the content will be expanded to include information on clubs, events and societies and Parish Council matters. Whilst subscription A clear majority preferred the Donhead Digest, closely followed by an income will fall away it will be offset by reduced production costs through local typesetting and layout, and internet solution. These two methods would appear to be the best increased advertising revenue and donations. combination as they cater for both computer users and non-computer users. Community Website Additional comments were received regarding the Donhead Digest as A community website has already been developed www.donheadstmary.org.uk and launched at the Summer follows: Fete on 8 July 2006. Development has been funded by a local business, Dokumenta, with development work • would be more relevant if produced monthly carried out by local residents Gabi Lerner and Jonathan Waddilove. It is already providing details of clubs, • needs updating and modernising societies and local events and, through a link with www.southwilts.com, details of Parish Council matters. It • should be less Church-orientated also provides details of local businesses. It is still in its development stage and therefore local comment and • needs more publicity since some respondents had never heard suggestions are welcome. of it despite living in the parish for many years

15 EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS

THE ISSUES EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS POLICY STATEMENT • a need for more The Parish needs: local employment • additional employment opportunities especially for young local particularly for young people people • to adopt the principle of converting existing buildings in the • sensitive new countryside into small business premises as opposed to the business development erection of new buildings to minimise friction • to take into account the views of local residents when considering with the residential new business developments community • the active promotion of a local business group

Background 3) Occupation Results from the Open Day Data extracted from the 2001 The parish has a high Prior to the Open Day, Census showed summary proportion of people working considerable research was information as follows: in the technical, administrative, undertaken to learn details of as secretarial and skilled trades many of the businesses within 1) Economic Activity occupations (45.4%) when the parish as possible. This was compared to the benchmark done from a number of sources The parish has a low proportion areas (Wiltshire – 40.2%, including the Donhead Digest, of its working age population that England – 38.8%). This is at the Blackmore Vale Magazine, are economically active (57.2%) expense of sales and service, Salisbury Journal, Village and when compared to any of the the process and plant, and the Shop notice boards and local benchmark areas (Wiltshire – elementary occupations. The knowledge, discussion and 72.2%, England – 66.9%) proportion of those managers observation. and professionals (29.7%) in 2) Employment by Industry Using this data a large board the parish is also high when displaying a detailed map of the The parish has a very high compared to all the benchmark parish together with pins and proportion of its workforce areas (Wiltshire – 27.0%, string showing every known (13.2%) employed in the England – 26.5%). business with its location within primary sector (principally the parish was put up at the agriculture) when compared Open Day with the question ‘Is to the benchmark areas. For Employment Opportunities your business shown here?’. If example Wiltshire has only 3% In the Parish Survey respondents not, attendees were asked to employed in this sector and were asked if they would like supply details of businesses not England only 1.7%. It also has a to see more employment shown. high proportion of those working opportunities in the parish and if in the construction and utilities so, what? From this it was learnt that sector (10.3%) when compared there are 65 businesses in total 31% wanted to see more to Wiltshire (7.1%) and England operating from within the parish. employment opportunities though (7.5%). In contrast to these it Verbal comments received at the there was no clear majority view has a low proportion working in Open Day suggest that this is a on what this should be. Some manufacturing (9.7%) as well much larger number than many said they would like to see more as services (66.8%) compared had expected. opportunities for young people, to Wiltshire (14.7% and 75.3% some felt there wasn’t a problem, Also it was suggested that the respectively) and England a few wanted more commercial data should be saved and used to (14.8% and 76% respectively). units/workshops/offices and a communicate to the whole parish few wanted more gardeners, the names and addresses of all plumbers, painters and work those businesses willing to have for farmers. A number made such information published, in comments that new businesses order to advertise and hopefully must fit in with the rural solicit new customers and also to surroundings and be acceptable provide a database for potential to local residents. new employees.

16

No [new employment or EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS business] unless it is in keeping with the rural parish Is there an THE ISSUES EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS POLICY STATEMENT unemployment • a need for more The Parish needs: Young people need problem? local employment • additional employment opportunities especially for young local employment to stay here particularly for young people people • to adopt the principle of converting existing buildings in the • sensitive new countryside into small business premises as opposed to the business development erection of new buildings to minimise friction • to take into account the views of local residents when considering with the residential new business developments community • the active promotion of a local business group

Background 3) Occupation Results from the Open Day Data extracted from the 2001 The parish has a high Prior to the Open Day, Census showed summary proportion of people working considerable research was information as follows: in the technical, administrative, undertaken to learn details of as secretarial and skilled trades many of the businesses within 1) Economic Activity occupations (45.4%) when the parish as possible. This was compared to the benchmark done from a number of sources The parish has a low proportion areas (Wiltshire – 40.2%, including the Donhead Digest, of its working age population that England – 38.8%). This is at the Blackmore Vale Magazine, are economically active (57.2%) expense of sales and service, Salisbury Journal, Village and when compared to any of the the process and plant, and the Shop notice boards and local benchmark areas (Wiltshire – elementary occupations. The knowledge, discussion and 72.2%, England – 66.9%) proportion of those managers observation. and professionals (29.7%) in 2) Employment by Industry Using this data a large board the parish is also high when displaying a detailed map of the The parish has a very high compared to all the benchmark parish together with pins and proportion of its workforce areas (Wiltshire – 27.0%, string showing every known (13.2%) employed in the England – 26.5%). business with its location within primary sector (principally the parish was put up at the agriculture) when compared Open Day with the question ‘Is to the benchmark areas. For Employment Opportunities your business shown here?’. If example Wiltshire has only 3% In the Parish Survey respondents not, attendees were asked to employed in this sector and were asked if they would like supply details of businesses not England only 1.7%. It also has a to see more employment Parish Plan Open Day April 2006 shown. high proportion of those working opportunities in the parish and if in the construction and utilities so, what? From this it was learnt that VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE sector (10.3%) when compared there are 65 businesses in total 31% wanted to see more Encourage and support SG and PC to work with Local Medium term to Wiltshire (7.1%) and England operating from within the parish. employment opportunities though appropriate employment existing employers and SDC to employers, (7.5%). In contrast to these it Verbal comments received at the there was no clear majority view opportunities in the parish, encourage local employment SDC, PC and has a low proportion working in Open Day suggest that this is a on what this should be. Some especially for young people SG manufacturing (9.7%) as well much larger number than many said they would like to see more as services (66.8%) compared had expected. New business developments PC and SG to identify possible Local Medium term opportunities for young people, to Wiltshire (14.7% and 75.3% within the parish which are small- sites for business units and businesses, some felt there wasn’t a problem, Also it was suggested that the respectively) and England scale and sympathetic to the investigate land ownership. local a few wanted more commercial data should be saved and used to (14.8% and 76% respectively). surrounding area Support planning applications landowners, units/workshops/offices and a communicate to the whole parish for change of use of existing SDC, PC and few wanted more gardeners, the names and addresses of all buildings. Encourage sensitive SG plumbers, painters and work those businesses willing to have new business development for farmers. A number made such information published, in A local mini chamber of commerce SG to form a group of Local business Medium term comments that new businesses order to advertise and hopefully comprising active members of the energetic and committed people, SW must fit in with the rural solicit new customers and also to business community to promote people drawn from our local Wilts Rural surroundings and be acceptable provide a database for potential local business and employment businesses Business Club, to local residents. new employees. Business Link

17 COMMUNITY

THE ISSUES COMMUNITY POLICY STATEMENT • integration of the The Parish needs: community • greater integration of the community but not at the expense of • publicity and individual local character and not when against local wishes involvement in parish • wider publicity on local events, clubs, societies and activities activities • better utilisation of parish facilities – village halls, schools and • use of local facilities churches

Background Analysis Integration is ideal but you In order to gain an understanding • 35% of respondents said can take a horse to water and of this subject, The Parish Survey there should be greater you can’t make it drink. If asked the following questions: integration people don’t want to mix then • 27% said they liked the • Should there be greater so be it people, the community spirit integration of the various and the villagers are friendly parts of the parish, and if • 18% want more events yes, how? • While there are over 16 and more publicity about local clubs and societies • What is the usage and events in order to foster a in the parish, most people knowledge of sport, community spirit. Quite a were aware of fewer than 6, recreational and social few said we should keep all confirming that events and activities in the parish? the existing events such as activities should receive the Dog Show, the Wassail • What use is made of the greater publicity party, the summer BBQ, village halls and churches? • The majority use the village the Summer Fête and the halls and would also like Reference was also made to the fireworks party. There the churches to be used for responses received to the ‘what were requests for a leisure other events do you like, what do you dislike, centre, a swimming pool, what would you change’, bingo, and more social More events that draw and ‘what would you keep’ events for the young people the whole community questions and finally the ‘any in the village together other comments’ section. • There was some concern Need to know what is expressed that whilst happening and where integration was good, ‘forced’ integration would not be welcome

VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE A vibrant and friendly community PC and SG to conduct a PC, SG, Medium term with many local events but community survey to seek churches, peaceful and private when people opinions on more and different schools, clubs want it to be activities and events, and and societies, helpers to organise them local residents Community-wide information Communications Group to PC, churches, Short term and publicity, available to the contact all clubs, societies and schools, clubs whole parish, on all events, clubs, event organisers to publicise and societies, societies and activities themselves on the community community website and in the Donhead website, Digest Donhead Digest Full use of local facilities – village Trustees of existing facilities Village hall Medium term halls, churches, schools – for to determine any necessary committees, maximum benefit to the whole improvements to meet churches, community requirements. Promote schools, clubs facilities more widely. and societies, local residents

18 COMMUNITY COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE, LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT

THE ISSUES COMMUNITY POLICY STATEMENT THE ISSUES COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE, LANDSCAPE & • integration of the • preservation of the The Parish needs: ENVIRONMENT POLICY STATEMENT community • greater integration of the community but not at the expense of existing landscape • publicity and • The Parish needs: individual local character and not when against local wishes preservation of rare involvement in parish • the preservation of the natural beauty of the landscape • wider publicity on local events, clubs, societies and activities flora, fauna and activities • the preservation of the rare flora and fauna and historical • better utilisation of parish facilities – village halls, schools and historical buildings • use of local facilities • buildings churches protection of bridle paths and footpaths • the protection of paths within the parish which give access to the • lack of recycling countryside for walkers and horse-riders Background Analysis facilities • the provision of kerbside recycling collection and local recycling facilities In order to gain an understanding • 35% of respondents said of this subject, The Parish Survey there should be greater Background the Environment Protection Act 10% said they would like to in 1990 (replaced on 1st October see landowners and farmers asked the following questions: integration All of the parish is contained 2006 by Natural England – an supported, since they were • 27% said they liked the within the Cranborne Chase • Should there be greater amalgamation of English Nature perceived as being the guardians people, the community spirit and West Wiltshire Area of integration of the various and the access part of the of the countryside. 8% said and the villagers are friendly Outstanding Natural Beauty. parts of the parish, and if Countryside Agency). they would like to keep the area • 18% want more events AONBs are regarded as being yes, how? • While there are over 16 exactly as it is. and more publicity about of national importance. The local clubs and societies Conservation • What is the usage and events in order to foster a primary purpose of the AONB in the parish, most people The natural beauty of the knowledge of sport, community spirit. Quite a designation is to conserve and were aware of fewer than 6, landscape is, for many of the recreational and social few said we should keep all enhance natural beauty. Keep the hedges and confirming that events and inhabitants, one of the main activities in the parish? the existing events such as trees, the wildlife and activities should receive A large part of the parish reasons why they choose to the Dog Show, the Wassail biodiversity, the quiet • What use is made of the greater publicity is also designated as a live here. In the Parish Survey party, the summer BBQ, country lanes for walking village halls and churches? • The majority use the village Conservation Area for planning 66% said they liked the beauty, the Summer Fête and the and the public footpaths halls and would also like and preservation purposes. A countryside, peace and quiet, Reference was also made to the fireworks party. There the churches to be used for Conservation Area is an area and rural aspect. 24% also responses received to the ‘what were requests for a leisure other events designated by the Local Planning said they would like to keep the do you like, what do you dislike, centre, a swimming pool, Authority as one of special views, walks, footpaths, beautiful what would you change’, bingo, and more social architectural or historical interest, landscape and rural character. and ‘what would you keep’ events for the young people the character or appearance of questions and finally the ‘any in the village Community Services which it is desirable to preserve other comments’ section. • There was some concern Keep the views or enhance. 26% of respondents to the expressed that whilst Survey were concerned that the integration was good, In addition to the natural beauty parish should be kept more clean ‘forced’ integration would of the landscape, much of and tidy, with less litter and dog not be welcome the countryside of the parish Keep footpaths and mess. Win Green, a National contains flora and fauna of great bridleways clear Trust property, is of special VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE interest. This is evidenced by concern for dog fouling. A vibrant and friendly community PC and SG to conduct a PC, SG, Medium term the parish containing three Sites with many local events but community survey to seek churches, of Special Scientific Interest – peaceful and private when people opinions on more and different schools, clubs Gutch Common, Lower Coombe want it to be activities and events, and and societies, + Ferne Brook Meadows, and Keep the countryside helpers to organise them local residents Win Green Down. SSSIs are the like it is Community-wide information Communications Group to PC, churches, Short term country’s very best wildlife and and publicity, available to the contact all clubs, societies and schools, clubs geological sites. They include whole parish, on all events, clubs, event organisers to publicise and societies, some of the most spectacular societies and activities themselves on the community community and beautiful habitats. Their website and in the Donhead website, purpose is to preserve our This area should be Digest Donhead Digest remaining natural heritage for preserved forever for its Full use of local facilities – village Trustees of existing facilities Village hall Medium term future generations. SSSIs beauty halls, churches, schools – for to determine any necessary committees, are important as they support maximum benefit to the whole improvements to meet churches, plants and animals that find it community requirements. Promote schools, clubs more difficult to survive in the facilities more widely. and societies, wider countryside. SSSIs are local residents designated by English Nature, a Government agency set up by 19 COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE, LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT

On the question of recycling, the following responses were made in the Parish Survey:

Recycling

100 90 90 85 79 80 70 60 % 50 40 30 20 10 0 Is recycling Would you use a Would you use important to central recycling kerbside you? point? recycling collection?

All of the above indicate that the provision of recycling facilities in the parish is an urgent issue, as is the kerbside collection of recycled waste.

VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE A beautiful landscape preserved PC to decline planning SDC, PC, Short term for future generations, together applications that would be AONB through to long with the preservation of flora, visually detrimental to the term fauna and historical heritage amenities of the parish. SDC to support this approach Easy access to countryside by PC to ensure that all SDC, PC Medium term walkers and horse-riders via public footpaths and bridleways are rights of way maintained, preserved and kept open. SDC to support this Provision of recycling facilities PC to confirm with SDC SDC, PC Short term in the parish and the kerbside suitable site for recycling collection of recycled waste facilities. SDC to commence kerbside collection of recycled waste Win Green Down to be clear of National Trust and SDC to National Trust, Medium Term dog fouling set up notices, bins and bin- SDC emptying service

20 COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE, LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT MEDICAL FACILITIES

On the question of recycling, the following responses were made in the Parish Survey: THE ISSUES MEDICAL FACILITIES POLICY STATEMENT • unsatisfactory The Parish needs: appointment system • easy and flexible access to GP surgeries at Shaftesbury GP practice

Background Analysis Where you are registered The parish is served principally The Parish Survey revealed Shaftesbury – 64% by two GP practices – that the majority of respondents Tisbury – 24% Shaftesbury and Tisbury, though (82%) had no difficulty getting to a small number of parishioners see their GP. Of the remaining Other – 12% travel further afield to practices in who reported some difficulty, 76% Fovant and Fontmell Magna. of these said that the problem related to the appointment There is a community hospital system at the Shaftesbury in Shaftesbury and a district practice. The principal problem general hospital in Salisbury. with this appointment system Dental services are provided is that people cannot book through an NHS practice in appointments more than 48 Shaftesbury, and two private hours ahead. A further 15% of practices – Shaftesbury and respondents who reported some Tisbury. difficulty getting to see their GP, said the problem related to transport e.g. difficulty getting a bus to Shaftesbury.

All of the above indicate that the provision of recycling facilities in the parish is an urgent issue, as is the kerbside collection of recycled waste. VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE Easy access to GP surgeries SG to write and if necessary SG, Abbey View Short term VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE with patient friendly appointment meet with Abbey View Medical Medical Centre A beautiful landscape preserved PC to decline planning SDC, PC, Short term systems Centre, Shaftesbury to seek for future generations, together applications that would be AONB through to long changes to appointment with the preservation of flora, visually detrimental to the term system fauna and historical heritage amenities of the parish. SDC to support this approach Easy access to countryside by PC to ensure that all SDC, PC Medium term walkers and horse-riders via public footpaths and bridleways are YOUNG PEOPLE rights of way maintained, preserved and kept open. SDC to support The Young Person’s Questionnaire produced only 29 completed replies. The 2001 Census showed this there were 284 people in the age group 5 – 15 in our parish. However, from this limited response it was Provision of recycling facilities PC to confirm with SDC SDC, PC Short term possible to learn that: in the parish and the kerbside suitable site for recycling collection of recycled waste facilities. SDC to commence • 18 individuals go to college or school by car kerbside collection of recycled • 13 want to stay in the parish when they leave school waste Win Green Down to be clear of National Trust and SDC to National Trust, Medium Term • 13 want to leave the parish dog fouling set up notices, bins and bin- SDC • 18 want to go to college or university emptying service In view of the limited data available it is proposed that more research be carried out, most likely with the assistance of pupils from Ludwell Primary School and St Mary’s School, with a view to researching more about what young people in the community want and developing action plans to suit.

21 CRIME & SAFETY

THE ISSUES CRIME & SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT • lack of visible policing The Parish needs: • community policing that is both visible and effective

Background will be supported by a Police Community Support Officer who As a rural community the will be specially trained for the parish enjoys a remarkably low job. crime rate. The most recently available data (National The parish participates in the Statistics) shows that the parish Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. has one of the lowest crime Wiltshire Police publishes a rates per person in the country. monthly Community Bulletin covering the Tisbury and Mere Policing is the responsibility areas. The Bulletin highlights of Wiltshire Constabulary topical crime and safety matters, through their offices in Tisbury plus the details of traffic and Salisbury. Wiltshire accidents and reported crime Do you feel safe? Constabulary is committed to and arrests. The Bulletin is sent changing to Neighbourhood The majority of respondents (82%) by email to those who have Policing. The parish falls within to the Parish Survey said they felt registered with: the Tisbury beat area and will safe and secure in the parish. For shortly have a beat manager [email protected] those who didn’t feel safe, the who will be a Police Constable Survey revealed that the principal and distributed in hard copy by dedicated to dealing with local worry is the lack of visible policing. Neighbourhood Watch. community issues. He Only 4% of people reported that . they had suffered a burglary or a break-in VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE A safe and crime-free environment PC to engage with Wiltshire PC, Wiltshire Short term for all local residents Constabulary to develop a Constabulary community policing plan to include more visible policing of the parish

THE NEXT STEPS The Parish Plan has now been formally published and adopted by both Donhead St Mary Parish Council and Salisbury District Council. It is therefore recommended that the Parish Council becomes the custodian of the Plan, ensuring that the programme of actions proposed within the Plan do actually take place, and that an appropriate monitoring process occurs to track progress. The Plan was presented to Salisbury District Council Western Area Committee on 7th February 2008 for adoption into the planning system. It is therefore expected that the Plan will influence the way SDC delivers its services. A copy will also be sent to Wiltshire County Council for the same purpose. Assistance will be sought from our District Councillor and our County Councillor to champion our cause. The views in the Plan reflect the wishes of the people of Donhead St Mary parish and we therefore expect the Plan to produce results. Locally, our continued work on the development of the Donhead Digest has assisted in making it free to all in the parish. The community website www.donheadstmary.org.uk is up and running but needs further support and development, as well as a community-wide publicity programme to increase its visibility and usage. Publishing the Parish Plan is the start of the next phase of a continuing process. The Plan contains many proposed actions and everyone has a role to play in helping to deliver these. Some actions have already started, but there remains a lot more to do if Donhead St Mary is to continue to be a delightful, vibrant and active community in which to live and work.

22 CRIME & SAFETY SUMMARY OF ACTIONS SHORT TERM – BY END 2009 THE ISSUES CRIME & SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT • lack of visible policing ROADS & TRANSPORT Road Safety Committee to push for adoption of all its The Parish needs: recommendations • community policing that is both visible and effective Establish a Transport Group to promote local public transport Background will be supported by a Police HOUSING & PLANNING Establish a Communications Group to liaise with the Parish Community Support Officer who Council to agree how best to communicate planning information As a rural community the will be specially trained for the Steering Group and Parish Council to request SDC to adopt the parish enjoys a remarkably low job. Parish Plan as Supplementary Planning Guidance crime rate. The most recently COMMUNICATION Mike Montgomery to liaise with publisher and printer to define a available data (National The parish participates in the new strategy and implementation plan to develop the Donhead Statistics) shows that the parish Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Digest. Communications Group to support this strategy has one of the lowest crime Wiltshire Police publishes a Steering Group to develop our own community website rates per person in the country. monthly Community Bulletin covering the Tisbury and Mere COMMUNITY Communications Group to contact all clubs, societies to publicise Policing is the responsibility areas. The Bulletin highlights themselves on the community website and in the Donhead Digest of Wiltshire Constabulary topical crime and safety matters, COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE, Parish Council to decline planning applications that would be through their offices in Tisbury plus the details of traffic LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT visually detrimental to the amenities of the parish and Salisbury. Wiltshire accidents and reported crime Do you feel safe? MEDICAL FACILITIES Steering Group to write to Abbey View Medical Centre, Constabulary is committed to and arrests. The Bulletin is sent Shaftesbury to seek changes to appointment system changing to Neighbourhood The majority of respondents (82%) by email to those who have CRIME & SAFETY Parish Council to engage with Wiltshire Constabulary to Policing. The parish falls within to the Parish Survey said they felt registered with: encourage more visible policing of the parish the Tisbury beat area and will safe and secure in the parish. For those who didn’t feel safe, the shortly have a beat manager [email protected] MEDIUM TERM – BY END 2012 who will be a Police Constable Survey revealed that the principal and distributed in hard copy by dedicated to dealing with local worry is the lack of visible policing. Neighbourhood Watch. ROADS & TRANSPORT Remit of Road Safety Committee to be expanded to cover the rest community issues. He Only 4% of people reported that of the parish . they had suffered a burglary or a break-in Remit of Road Safety Committee to be expanded to explore restricted access on certain minor roads VISION ACTION PARTNERS TIMESCALE Parish Council to liaise with WCC to agree a programme of A safe and crime-free environment PC to engage with Wiltshire PC, Wiltshire Short term inspections and repair of the roads and lanes for all local residents Constabulary to develop a Constabulary Tisbury Link Community Transport scheme to be promoted more community policing plan to widely. Transport Group to promote car-sharing include more visible policing of HOUSING & PLANNING Parish Council to push for more rapid progress and visible results the parish of the Community First initiative for affordable housing EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS Steering Group and Parish Council to work with existing employers and SDC to encourage local employment Parish Council and Steering Group to identify possible sites for business units and investigate land ownership Steering Group to form a group of energetic and committed people drawn from our local businesses COMMUNITY Parish Council and Steering Group to research holding more community activities and find helpers to organise them Village halls, churches and schools to determine any necessary improvements to meet community needs, and promote facilities

COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE, Parish Council to ensure that all footpaths and bridleways are LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT maintained, preserved and kept open Parish Council to confirm with SDC suitable site for recycling facilities. SDC to commence collection of recycled waste National Trust and SDC to set up notices, bins and bin-emptying services to clear Win Green Down of dog fouling

LONG TERM – BY END 2015

ROADS & TRANSPORT Road Safety Committee to research if there is scope for improved parking for the shops and residents of Ludwell along the A30

23 DONHEAD ST. MARY PARISH BOUNDARY