Chestfield Parish Plan 2006
The Bishop’s Crosier represents Odo,Bishop of Bayieux to whom the manor belonged at the time of the Doomsday Survey. The four stars represent the four farms,which historically made up the manor i.e. Chestfield, Bodkin, Highgate and Bolsar Street
Inside front cover
Tony’s old photo of the old Farmhouse Barn
The Paddocks, after the old barn was split in two and converted.
Contents 1. Introduction
2. Why have a Parish Plan?
3. How Chestfield Parish Plan was produced.
4. The History of Chestfield.
5. The present Civic Parish
6. Local Churches and photos
7. Organizations within the Parish.
8. Other Amenities within the Parish
9. Listed Buildings.
10. Conservation area.
11. The results and analysis of the questionnaire and Open Day.
12. Recommendations for the Action Plan
13. Acknowledgements.
14. Members of the Steering Group and additional volunteers.
Introduction by the Chairman
The Parish of Chestfield is very fortunate in its location, lying on the outskirts of Whitstable on gentle slopes south of Swalecliffe, with easy access to Whitstable, Herne Bay and Canterbury. Major road routes are also nearby via the A 2990. To the North the Parish is bounded by the Thanet to London Railway line, with its own Chestfield and Swalecliffe station. To the south there is a large area of mainly ancient native woodland, some of which is designated a Sight of Special Scientific Interest. The delightful North Kent Coast is less than a mile away. As will be seen from the results of the questionnaire, the majority of residents appreciate how lucky they are to live in Chestfield and are keen that it should remain as it is, with the green, tree- lined appearance of the older parts of the Parish, its large houses and gardens and green open spaces. Lack of community spirit has been a recurring theme in many residents‟ comments, let us hope that this might improve in future with the advent of more young families. I would like to thank all members of the Steering Group for their hard work and commitment to the production of this Parish Plan, also Amanda Sparkes of Canterbury City Council, Victoria Lawson of Action for Communities in Rural Kent and Linda Livingstone, Clerk to Chestfield Parish Council, for all their help and advice. I would also like to thank Linda Wickins of Galleon Promotions for her help in the production of the printed material. Sheila Finch (Chairman)
Why Have a Parish Plan
Parish Plans were first initiated following a government Rural White Paper
Purpose of Parish Plans
To produce a survey of the local community by the community, highlighting what is good and what is bad about living in the area. To analyse the results and set out people‟s views on what changes are needed to improve the things that are bad and to maintain those that are good. To make the community aware of what is currently available. To provide a means of communication between the community and the authorities To influence local authorities by providing evidence of what is most important to people in the area. To use the survey to produce recommendations for an Action Plan
How the Parish Plan was Produced
Following the interest shown in the talk by Mrs. Kathie Budgen at the 2004 A.G.M., the Parish Council decided to form a Steering Group (comprising interested residents and members of the P.C.) to produce a Parish Plan for Chestfield.
This Group was formed in September 2004 with the aims and objectives of: evaluating assets and ensuring that they are maintained and enhanced where possible, representing the views of the whole community, identifying areas of need, concern and aspiration, providing a basis for action and a vehicle for partnership with other groups, such as the Police, the K.C.C, and the C.C.C..
With advice from Amanda Sparkes from C.C.C. and Victoria Lawson from Action for Rural Communities in Kent, a questionnaire was drawn up to obtain opinions of the residents. Questionnaires were delivered by hand to all households, 1317 in total, during November 2004 and collected a few days later. 641 (approximately 49%) responses were received. Computer experts on the Steering Group then collated the numerical data and devised a suitable spread sheet for the narrative data. These results were displayed at a Parish Plan Open Day on 7th.May 2005, held in the Swalecliffe and Chestfield W.I. Hall. 124 residents attended showing considerable interest in the presentation and their views were noted. They also completed a questionnaire on how they would allocate an imaginary sum of money to be spent in Chestfield.
Recommendations for an Action Plan were then produced, based on the results of the questionnaires, with a view to carrying out the wishes of the residents where possible. Finally the Parish Plan was printed and distributed to all residents and to relevant authorities, to be used for reference purposes and when applying for funds for future projects.
The current work is funded by grants received from Canterbury City Council‟s „Can Do Fund‟, Kent County Council‟s Small Grants Fund (Courtesy of Councillor Mike Harrison), Chestfield Parish Council and a few donations from individuals. To all these people the Steering Group is extremely grateful.
The History of Chestfield
There has been a settlement here in Chestfield since pre-historic times - beside the brook which runs into the sea at Long Rock. We have relics of Neolithic, Iron Age and Roman occupation. The latter indicating a field system.
Our parish church of St John the Baptist records the names of rectors since 1296 and the Chestfield Manor Farmhouse and adjacent barns are also of ancient origin, although much altered over the years. Probably the best known family to have owned the Manor were the Ropers of Canterbury. Margaret Roper married Thomas Moore who was beheaded upon the orders of King Henry VIII and later - much later - canonised.
The twentieth century found the parish little changed from Tudor days - a scattering of farms and workers cottages.
At the outbreak of the first World War the total population of the parish amounted to no more than 120 souls. Of these, twenty were lost in the conflict - a large proportion of the able bodied menfolk. Their names are recorded on a memorial in St Johns Church.
During the inter-war years a bungalow estate was developed at the Swalecliffe end of the parish and a mock Tudor housing estate was built in Chestfield. Meanwhile the railway and Coastal road tended to divide the community as never before.
At the beginning of World War II many families left the district fearing a German invasion of the coast. The Battle of Britain was fought in the skies above our heads. We lost to enemy action Max Williams our Air Raid Warden and Sidney Paget our Church sidesman. Most able bodied young men were called up. Some of the troops who were billeted here married local girls.
Although sharing with Swalecliffe many institutions,such as Church, Community Centre, Schools, Railway Station and Women's Institute, Chestfield has developed as a separate entity. The Parish Council, Chestfield Society, Golf and Cricket Clubs etc tend to reinforce the distinctive 'feel' of the place.
Genuine historic landmarks have a habit of being overlooked among the mock tudor properties and converted 'tythe' barns; but they are there. The sheep dip in the Ridgeway, the Oast Houses, Reeves Green where the hunt once met and shepherd‟s cottages that were old when the earliest photographs were taken.
Road names give clues to their connections. The Drive and Polo Way are good examples. Gardeners digging below recently introduced topsoil may well find relics of former times: horse shoes, clay smoking pipes, wartime bullets, even ancient flint tools. Oh yes, Chestfield has a story to tell which goes back beyond the mists of time. Tony Blake - June 2005
The Parish of Chestfield
As late as the First World War there were only five farms and 12 residences in Chestfield, but in 1920 the late George Reeves bought „The Manor‟ and 700 acres of land for £11000. He then set about developing the area to match his vision of the aspirations of affluent citizens who wished to live in a semi-rural setting, with a variety of sporting facilities on the doorstep. Many of the houses were large, mock tudor and imposing, set on large plots of land. Smaller houses were set around greens, to give the impression of a village within a village. To these were added the Cricket Club, the Golf Club, tennis courts, a bowling green and to judge by the name of one of the roads, a projected polo ground. A railway station was built by public subscription, for the convenience of those who commuted to their offices in the City.
The village spreads on either side of Chestfield Road, becoming more modern as the distance increases, with new estates that have been built recently. To the West of Chestfield Road is the Primrose Way Estate, where the planned high density housing did not anticipate the space required for car parking. To the East of the Parish, the Churchwood Estate, Birkdale Close and Carnoustie Close provide sensitively designed, low-density housing. Within the village there is a rash of house extensions and building on any plot of land permitted by the planning authorities. There is a central Conservation Zone in which any development is strictly monitored. At one time there were small shops, which have now closed and a parade of shops near the middle of Chestfield Road. The last, a newsagent, has closed within the last ten years. The parade now comprises a dental surgery, a printers offices and a computer repair shop.
The only church is the Roman Catholic St.Josephs, which is of modern construction. There is no school, the only pub is the Barn and the only meeting place is the W.I.Hall, which is small and largely devoted to W.I. activities, although it is used for a variety of other things such as the Parish Council Meetings, „Streetrunner‟, which is organised for teenagers every other week and the table tennis club.
At the Northern extremity there is a Sainsburys Supermarket, a B & Q, a car wash, a MacDonalds, two petrol stations and a proposed fast food outlet. The railway line forms the Northern boundary, with the Brook being the North Western limit of the parish. Within a few hundred yards of the parish boundary there is the John Wilson Business Park and under the railway bridge, a useful selection of shops at Swaleciffe. The nearest Primary School is also at Swalecliffe. Within recent years the Health Centre has been constructed to ease the strain on that at Whitstable and already it has had to be extended to cope with the demands of new facilities and the number of patients.
For sport there are the Rugby, Cricket and Golf Clubs, a recreation ground with football and cricket pitches and a play park with equipment for young children, but no specific activities for the teenagers. Much of the parish is covered by ancient woodland with good paths connecting with a section of the „Crab and Winkle Way‟, going to Canterbury one way and Whitstable the other.
It is a parish without a nucleus; few clubs or associations, no school and no dedicated Village Hall. Consequently there has been little sense of a community, something that the Chestfield Society (formed in 1966) tried to remedy, although they found that they were swimming against a tide of apathy. In search of a little more authority and influence, the Chestfield Society decided to apply for parish status, which was granted in 1988.
Chestfield Parish Council
Chestfield is designated as an „Urban Parish‟, as opposed to the „ Rural Parishes‟ , which were those in existence in Bridge Blean Rural Council in 1974, when they were taken over by Canterbury along with Whitstable and Herne Bay. This means that Canterbury City Council together with Kent C.C. are responsible for the maintenance of roads, street lighting, playing fields, street cleaning and so on. Our Parish Council checks all planning applications, deals with any problems from residents and works through Canterbury to see that the village is kept in good order, as well as working to make any improvements that are needed.
The Parish Council meets on the fourth Monday of every month, except August, at 7.30 pm in the W.I. Hall. Plans for current planning applications are available from 7 p.m. and there is an opportunity for residents to raise problems at one stage in the evening.
In order to carry out such works as providing benches, bus shelters, partly defraying the cost of Community Wardens, planting flower beds, supporting „Street Runner‟, helping with the setting up of new clubs, paying the Parish Clerk‟s salary and office expenses, paying the subscription to the Kent Association of Parish Councils and more, it is necessary to produce a budget to set the Precept. This sum of money is collected from the householders by Canterbury City Council as an addition to the Council Tax.
The Kent Association of Parish Councils is a professional organisation which provides training for parish clerks and councillors, as well as being an authority on all matters concerning the administration of parishes and in particular, legal advice. Every year the KAPC has an A.G.M. which will consider any motions advanced by individual parishes and raise them at national level, if they are considered to be worth it. The Parish Councillors are elected every four years with a full election procedure if there are more candidates than the nine that are required. The current councillors are:
Len Claisse Chairman David Fitzpatrick Vice Chairman Keith Dabson John Finch Pearl Freeman Hilary Roberts Sue Shillam Mick Shorter Linda Wickings The Clerk to the Council, who is responsible for the administrative work and ensuring that the correct procedure is followed, is: Linda Livingstone Chestfield Parish Council Website : www.chestfield.net The Whitstable based Canterbury City Councillors are: Jennifer Samper Ian Thomas Pat Todd The Whitstable based Kent County Councillor is: Mike Harrison Local Churches
Parish Church of St.John the Baptist
Most of the Civic Parish of Chestfield falls in the Ecclesiastical Parish of St.John the Baptist, Swalecliffe, which is consequently the Parish Church of Chestfield. St. John's is one of six churches which comprise the Anglican Church in Whitstable. The present building dates from 1876, although an earlier building existed from the 11th C., with traces of an earlier Saxon structure. The Church has survived many vicissitudes, including losing its wooden shingled spire in 1928. Currently an appeal has been launched to raise £100,000 for work on the vestry and a new porch extension. Work on the vestry is almost complete, but the Church Council is seeking a further design for the porch, which will be more in keeping with the original building. The church yard is still open for burials, although it is almost full. In recent years a new church hall, St. John the Baptist Church Centre, has been purchased, thanks to a bequest from Avril Efford, who had been a worshipper and Lay Reader at the church. The centre is used both for worship each Wednesday morning at 10.00am and for social activities and it is a valuable resource to the whole community. Activities include: a weekly coffee morning each Tuesday and a monthly morning market on the first Saturday of the month. Sunday services are mainly held in the church, although on the first Sunday of the month at 10.30 a.m. we join with the Swalecliffe Free Church (Baptist) in Herne Bay Road. We offer Holy Communion (BCP) on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 8.00 a.m. Our main Communion Service is at 10.30 a.m. and on the 3rd Sunday we have, in addition, a Family Service at 9.15 a.m. Evening services are held on a Sunday in church at 6.30 p.m. except on the 4th Sunday, when we meet in the W.I. Hall in Chestfield. Details of all services can be found on the church noticeboards or notice sheets, which can be obtained from the Church or Church Centre. There is a Junior Church which meets on the 2nd and 4th Sundays in term time and we have strong links with the 6th Whitstable Scouts. We meet as a whole church family on the 5th Sunday of the month.
St.Joseph’s Catholic Church
St.Joseph's Church is what is known in Catholic parlance as a "chapel-of-ease", looked after from the parish church, Our Lady Immaculate, Whitstable. In the late fifties and early sixties most people travelled on foot, by bike, or by public transport and a church was sought by parishioners for Chestfield, in those days before car ownership spread. Father Basil Harvey was the Parish Priest who brought the project to fruition, St.Joseph's being opened in late 1964. It was of partial prefabricated construction, with a maximum capacity of around 90 people.
Nowadays Mass is celebrated there on a Sunday at 8:30am and on the Eve of Holydays (e.g All Saints) at 7:00pm. Attendance on Sundays is around 70 people who come from other parts of the parish as well as Chestfield
The grass area in front of the church is home to a form of orchid called "Ladies Autumn Tresses" and for a few weeks each year the grass looks unkempt as mowing is suspended to allow the orchids to spread their seeds.
An ecumenical event, a Christmas Carol Service, takes place outside the church near the Christmas tree each year a few days before Christmas.
Father Kevin St.Aubyn
Swalecliffe Free Church (Baptist)
Swalecliffe Free Church was established as a congregation in the 1960‟s, with the main building being opened and dedicated in March 1966. Although the church is affiliated to the Baptist Union and hence the Kent Baptist Association, it has always welcomed a wide range of people who have made it their spiritual home. Informality, friendliness, inclusiveness, with mutual care and support, are key aspects for us, as we seek to experience and reflect God‟s love in Jesus Christ. Believers‟ Baptism by full immersion is encouraged, but this is not a requirement for Membership or full participation in church family life.
The church enjoys a close and productive link with the local Parish Church of St. John‟s and we hold a Combined Service, at the Baptist Church, once a month. The Church is an active member of Churches Together in Whitstable.
The spiritual, pastoral and worship aspects of church life are led by a Ministry Team. Ministry Team Terry Rees 01227 275261 Revd. Guy Laurence (Pastoral Minister ) 01227 794734 Web site: www.swalecliffe-free-church.com e-mail: [email protected]
Chestfield Clubs and Societies
The Chestfield Society
Initially known as the Chestfield Preservation Society, the Chestfield Society was formed in 1966 in response to residents‟ worries about the amount of development in the Parish. It scrutinised planning applications, concerned itself with the state of footways, roads and drainage and acted to register Molehill Green and Green Leas as Village Greens, under the Commons Registration Act. It also pressed for the establishment of Preservation Orders on major trees and groups of trees. Additionally it maintained footpaths, instigated a drainage scheme for Grasmere Road and tried to reinstate the shelter on Chestfield Station.
It then took the logical step of applying for Parish Council Status, which came to fruition in 1988. With many of its functions transferred to the Council, the Society concentrated more on encouraging community spirit through social events. These have included Front Garden Competitions, Summer Fetes, Village Markets, an Annual Dinner and more recently, a Scarecrow Competition and a Christmas Lights Competition, both of which have attracted many entrants. Perhaps the most popular event is the Christmas Carol Service, which is held round a Christmas tree in front of St. Joseph‟s Church, followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the W.I. Hall.
A quarterly newsletter, the Chestfield Herald is published and delivered to all members ( now a considerable number) by a network of contact members
The Swalecliffe with Chestfield Women’s Institute
In 1931 Mrs. Richardson of Chestfield Road, whilst visiting relatives in Canada (the birthplace of the W.I. movement), visited a W.I. and decided to start one in Chestfield. The small population of Chestfield at that time made it essential to combine efforts with Swalecliffe and on 9th.December that year the first meeting took place. Difficulties in finding a satisfactory venue meant that the only solution was to build their own hall. A building fund was set up and meeting in the Barn Tea Room, members‟ houses and gardens, their various activities raised a sum of £50, which they considered to be sufficient to enable them to start looking for a site for their hall. Luck was on their side as their first president, Mrs. Faunch, lived in the North Oast next to George Reeves, who donated a plot of land for the hall. Having had a hall designed which should cost £400, three local builders quoted prices in the region of £1000. Fortunately one of them, Mr. Barton, offered to build the hall, to his own design, for £400 with an extra £50 for drainage and even loaned the WI £250 so that building could go ahead. By 1935 the Hall was in use
In the realms of public service ; during the war the WI produced vast quantities of jam, bottled fruit and pickles as well as raising funds to buy wool ,which was knitted into garments for the Royal Navy. The Hall was used as a rest centre for evacuees after the Whitstable floods in 1952 and before the Chestfield Health Centre was built , doctors‟ surgeries took place there.
The Hall was extended in 1952 and again in 1963 when both the kitchen and Committee Room were enlarged. With 190 members in 1952,the membership was becoming too large and 30 were persuaded to form the South Street WI. With continued growth, another group formed the Swalebrook WI in 1973. However Swalecliffe with Whitstable W.I. are still eager to welcome new members. Currently the members engage in social events, table tennis, dress making and craft, but the hall is used by the wider public for children‟s parties, wedding receptions, Yoga, „Street Runner (for teenagers), the Table Tennis Club, Art, Parish Council meetings and Community Warden‟s surgeries.
The Radfall and Broomfield Gate Amenity Society
The Society, more commonly referred to by its acronym RABGAS , was established in 1990, by an enthusiastic group of residents, to create a community spirit by means of a small calendar of social events, thus creating a forum for involvement in matters affecting our area. Initially the most important matter was the planned New Thanet Way and its effect on our residential area. Funds were raised enabling proper legal and specialist technical representation at the various official meetings. Although the fight to keep the new route to the old Thanet Way was unsuccessful, we were able to provide assistance with noise level monitoring. Many residents were able to use the results for compensation. We also liaise with our Parish Council, Canterbury Council and Kent County Council to try to protect and enhance our local environment. In the past our social events have included celebrations of National Events, garden parties, barbeques, cross country walks, including pub lunches and our annual Christmas Buffet
Maydowns Road Residents’ Association (A short history of a long road) In the late 19th. C. there were just a few farm workers‟ cottages in Maydowns Road, with no electricity or bathrooms. Electricity and water was installed up to the end of the road in the 1930‟s and by 1948 dwellings had increased with the addition of 18 semi-detached chalet bungalows. Gas was then installed in various dwellings up to the second bridge and water up to the top of the hill.
In October 1948 Whitstable Urban District Council deferred making a resolution to make up the road and subsequently the residents decided to take matters into their own hands and form an Association for the purpose of collecting funds to finance the cost of materials. The annual subscription was two shillings and sixpence from all residents. Using wheelbarrows and hardcore a working party gradually filled in the potholes to the top of the road. The ladies played their part by supplying tea and biscuits. At this time a strong community spirit existed in the road, which has since declined due to apathy and lack of common purpose.
The road was resurfaced properly in 1966 and again in 1983 using existing funds and voluntary payments from residents. Since then the Association has taken on the additional responsibility for the footway and has invested in new street lighting as well as continuing to maintain the road. Several members have provided expertise and equipment for the work and have organised fund raising events. In 2004, in the interest of pedestrian safety, the footway was extended at the entrance at a cost of £4070.00; a marked improvement for both pedestrians and vehicles.
The current Treasurer, Mary Field, has lived in the road for 50 years and has been in the Association for 48 years, organising many fund raising events
Neighbourhood Watch
The Neighbourhood Watch network which was once established in Chestfield has decayed over the years as many co-ordinators have given up, due to age and have not been replaced. Currently there are four„Watches‟ based on Maydowns Road, Shepherds Walk South, Radfall Road and recently formed Plantation Road. Many residents have believed in the past that they belonged to a „Watch‟ because the old signs had not been removed, hopefully this has now been accomplished. Three more people have volunteered to start new Watches, but the Police Constable who liaised with the Neighbourhood Watch for many years retired and there was a gap of some months before his successor, P.C. Dale Lowes, took over his duties in November 2005. Dale is now very active in setting up new Watches.
The basic premises in the scheme are that residents should keep an eye out for strange vehicles or people or unusual happenings in the area, check on homes when people are away and keep a neighbourly eye on older people, who may have such problems as persistent salesmen or ill health.
All the Watches in the area are administered by the Canterbury and District Neighbourhood Watch Association, which has an office with the Public Safety Unit in Herne Bay. This office receives details of local crimes, missing persons etc. from the Police. Kent Trading Standards provide information on local „dodgy‟ door-to-door traders and all the schemes dreamed up by ingenious criminal minds, with the object of parting you from your money. More and more of these are arriving by mail or e-mail sometimes with nasty little attachments. This information is sent to the co-ordinators who select what is relevant and put it into a newsletter. These are delivered periodically with the help of „links‟, each of whom is responsible for ten or so houses. Since the N.W. Office is manned every week day it is possible for information to be passed on very rapidly, if it is urgent, by co-ordinators and links
There are other „perks‟ to membership, including reduced house contents insurance, cheap, but very good, security equipment, identification kits for cycles and electronic equipment and much more – all of which help to reduce crime.
Chestfield Rotary Club
Did you know that we have a Rotary Club in Chestfield? Chestfield Rotary Club started in November 2003. We were officially Chartered in May 2004. We are a friendly Breakfast Club with 28 members, who meet weekly at the Chestfield Golf Club between 07:00 a.m. and normally finishing about 08:30.a.m. (Yes, we really do start that early, but that means that our members are free to continue their business for the rest of the day). We are mixed gender (or even metrosexual to be more p.c.). I'm sure you know that Rotary is a registered charity and we've already been involved in supporting many international projects, including eradication of polio in developing countries, Mercy ships, New Orleans and many others. You may already have seen some of our members at the Open Day for the Chestfield Plan, on the slopes at Tankerton for the Trafalgar Weekend, our mulled wine stall at the Tankerton Fair or even the Bar-B-Q on the beach last August (don't worry we're planning to be there this year too!) Isn't it time we all had a serious event just within Chestfield? A summer fair maybe?
Our aims are simple: Working for the Community, locally and around the world. We've already had a number of successful organised social events and are looking at many more for the current year, including a Valentine's Ball, a Rugby tournament for the local youth and many more. We will be putting the events on our website (when it's finished).
Our personal objectives are making friends and having fun.
We always welcome visitors / new members from the local community. Please think of this as an invite to attend, just call me in advance so that we can lay extra settings for the breakfast
Colin Gaunt email: [email protected]
Chestfield Cricket Club
The Club are to be congratulated on being promoted to the new Second Division, of nine other teams ,on the strength of their performance in the 2005 season. Apparently the down side is that all the other teams are West of the Medway so a good deal of travelling will be involved. The second XI also has a full fixture list.
Chestfield Golf Club
The ground upon which Chestfield Golf Course was built, Chestfield Manor, is mentioned in the Doomsday Book as a gift from William the Conqueror to his half brother Bishop Odo – hence the reason why the Club emblem is a Bishop‟s Mitre. The Clubhouse dates from the 15th century and has been carefully restored to provide an attractive beamed lounge bar, a good size Spike bar and Trophy Room and a restaurant overlooking the 18th green and fairway. The Men‟s Locker Rooms have recently been extended and refurbished. The thatched timber cowsheds, to the front of the property, house the thriving Junior Section and administrative offices, while a purpose built Professional‟s Shop is situated close to the rear car park.
The construction of the course, originally known as Shrub Hill, began shortly after the First World War at the instigation of George Reeves, a local builder. He commissioned two well known professionals, James Braid – five times Open Champion – and Abe Mitchell to design the course, which was opened for play on 16th April 1924. In 1938 the Club was purchased by millionaire ship owner Jack Billmeir, a local boy. When he died in 1963 the course and buildings were acquired by the members. Since then the course has improved beyond recognition, culminating in the Club hosting the Kent County Championship in 1993.
Significant changes to the course were made when the A299 was re-routed. The new layout, designed by the internationally renowned golf architect Donald Steel and comprising six new greens and five new tees, opened in the summer of 2000.
Chestfield Golf Club is not just about history. No club of any kind can survive without appealing to a broad cross-section of the public and Chestfield thrives by keeping this in mind. The Club caters for golfers at all levels. A year- long programme of midweek and weekend competitions is on offer and all the various sections of the Club organize both friendly and competitive matches against other Clubs in the area.
The Professional and his staff also provide advice and lessons for both the aspiring and the experienced golfer. The social side is not neglected, with a full programme of events running throughout the year.
For any information please contact the Secretary – Nick Pout – on 01227 794411
Whitstable Rugby Club
Radfall Recreation Ground.
The Recreation Ground, which is administered by Canterbury City Council is used by Whitstable Labour Cricket Club in the summer. Various senior and junior football clubs, including many teams from Whitstable Juniors, use it in the football season. Canterbury City Council, in conjunction with the Football Association, has been considering the possibility of improving the present dilapidated pavilion
Other Amenities in Chestfield Chestfield Medical Centre
Chestfield Medical Centre is part of Whitstable Medical Practice and is committed to providing a high quality range of primary care services to its patients. There are six General Practitioners at Chestfield and a well trained support staff.
Full details of all services and much useful information can be obtained from the web site :- www.whitstablemedicalpractice.co.uk or from the reception desk at the Medical Centre. General Enquiries Tel :- 01227 794555 Address :- Chestfield Medical Centre, Reeves Way, Chestfield, Whitstable. CT5 3Q
Chestfield House Nursing Home
As it is now. Compare it with Tony Blake‟s old photo below.
Insert Tony Blake’s Old photo here
Dental Practice – G. Hamill. 41, Chestfield Road.
Chestfield Barn
Listed Buildings
1. Statutary Listed Buildings are of special architectural or historic interest –can cover buildings, lampposts, telephone kiosks, railings, bridges etc. and have special statutory protection. Chestfield Road :- Chestfield Golf Club, The Barn Gas lanterns and columns outside 105 and 107, Chestfield Road Shepherds Cottage The Drive :- The Old Farm House
North and South Tythe Barn The Paddock Paddock South The Drove :- Willowdene
Molehill Road :- Molehill Cottage Sparrer Court
Thanet Way :- Bodkin Farmhouse
2 .Locally Listed Buildings are buildings that make a positive contribution to the character of the area, usually in the conservation area, but do not have additional statutory protection..
Chestfield Road :- North Oast and South Oast
The Drove/Drive :- Sea View Alcrest Kennel Meadow Cottage Huntsman Cottage
Chestfield Conservation Area
Most of the older part of Chestfield is partly protected as it was designated as a „Conservation Area‟ in 1989.This means: Special procedures for planning applications. Control of demolition and felling of trees. Possible stricter controls over advertising.
The Conservation Area includes: Chestfield Road, excluding Radfall Cottage and „The Oaks‟. The South side of Maydowns Road; Plantation Road and Share and Coulter Road between Chestfield Road and the footpath. Green Leas, The Leas and Fairlawn. The first three houses on the North side of Polo Way. The Drive and The Drove Molehill Road including three houses beyond the Drove Junction. Shrub Hill Road. The Ridgeway up to Fern Close Willow Way Grasmere Road, up to the Cricket Ground on the South side, but including the three houses opposite the Cricket Ground on the North side. Cherry Orchard: the first house on each side from Chestfield Road. Village Greens Molehill Green and Green Leas are registered as Village Greens under the „Commons registration Act.
The sketch map above is a representation of the Chestfield Conservation Area. For full details of individual roads see the previous text. The sketch is by courtesy of Louise Foreman.
The Analysis and Results of the Questionnaire and Open Day
There were 1317 questionnaires delivered and 49% were completed and returned. This high percentage was largely due to the fact that the questionnaires were delivered and collected by hand. It is a much higher percentage than the national average for similar surveys and therefore the results can be taken as representative for the area.
Age profile of the residents
Nearly 26% of respondents are in the over 65 age group. Nearly 51% are in the 30 to 65 group. 10% are between 16 and 30 and 13% are under 16.
The length of time residents have lived in Chestfield.
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0 0 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 30 31- 45 46 -65 66 -75 76 + M =717 41 24 32 44 42 97 250 139 48 F =760 34 25 41 35 29 115 289 125 67
The length of time they have lived here is an indication of how well the locality is liked and the uptake of recent development. Nearly 28% of households have lived in Chestfield over 20 years. Nearly 26 % have lived here 10 to 20 years Over 15 % have lived here 6 to 10 years 15 % have lived here 3 to 5 years Nearly 16 % have lived here less than 3 years
Environment
The built up part of the parish is partly surrounded by Blean Woods and farm land. This quiet, semi-rural setting and the easy links to the surrounding town amenities have induced more and more people to settle here. Over 400 people commented that the rural setting was what they liked about the village. The preservation of this way of life is a paramount concern for many. There is an overwhelming view that the village maintains its boundaries and that no more houses should be built. The questionnaire showed that many residents had strong feelings that the open spaces should be preserved; these help to maintain the village feeling and are enjoyed by all.
The following table shows the response to the question: “Do you think more housing is needed in Chestfield? If so, please indicate below what you think this should be”.
Young Retired People’s Large Houses people’s Housing for Low Cost No More Houses Houses Local People Housing Houses 4.6% 0.7% 3.6% 6.6% 2.2% 82.1%
In the past flooding has been a problem and many residents are still concerned, but only 11% have stated they are actually affected. Recent improvements to the drainage system should help to alleviate future problems. The village does become almost an island after heavy rain, with flooding occurring under the A299 Bridge on Chestfield Road and by Swalecliffe Bridge.
Many people consider litter and dog fouling to be problems, which spoil the look of the village. At the Open Day held in May 2005 residents were asked to show where more litter and dog bins are needed and a request for more bins has been made to C.C.C.
On the whole lighting was considered to be about right in the village with only a few places needing more light.
Residents’ Comments Things liked: Rural but not remote. A quiet and safe place to live. Being separated by open spaces from Whitstable, Herne Bay and Canterbury. Freedom from heavy industry. The individual houses and lovely trees and gardens. The many walks Well layed out estates with good mix of housing. Nothing I dislike. That‟s why I live here.
Things disliked: Rising crime and antisocial behaviour i.e. vandalism and dog fouling. Increasing development – village is merging into South Tankerton, Swalecliffe and Greenhill. Vandalism often discovered on Saturday and Sunday mornings – road signs, plant pots and fences knocked over. Litter and damage caused by youths in Health Centre and Maydowns area. Too many householders cutting down trees.
Leisure and amenities
Although the results of question 12 showed that the majority of residents considered that there are sufficient sport and leisure facilities, comments on the questionnaire and at the Open Day indicate that an improvement in the provision for teenagers is warranted. One suggestion, particularly supported on the Open Day, was a ballpark that would incorporate various ball games.
Question 13. The residents were asked how important they believed the following services and facilities would be to the village of Chestfield. The results placed footpaths and bridleways first, the playpark second, a village hall third and the recreation ground fourth.
Fast Food Outlets Library Mobile Library Fixed Public House(s) Pre-School School Tennis Court Nursery Church Cricket Pitch Football Pitch Shop Post Office Recreation Grnd Village Hall Play Park Footpaths Bridleways
0 100 200 300 400
Lack of community facilities and activities. One of the most common comments and dislikes mentioned in questions 27 and 28 was a lack of a sense of community. Many comments were also made about the lack of a focal point to the village and that a village hall might solve both these problems.
Residents’ Comments
Things liked: A good WI and Medical Centre. Small size of village hence can walk to various amenities. Access to numerous halls to hold events. Pleasant walking available.
Things disliked: Little to encourage youngsters. Lack of community facilities and activities. Lack of community spirit. No Village Hall. Not enough leisure facilities. Lack of “proper” Village Hall. Teenagers using play park in the evenings. Increasing vandalism – we don‟t feel that we can use the play park after 5 pm (summer) because of loitering, foul-mouthed youths. Lack of leisure facilities for young and old. Lack of community centre to focus on issues that effect us all. Lack of feeling of community exacerbated by lack of church, village hall or similar focus for community events. Too little in the way of facilities for our younger people.
Residents’ suggestions for Sport and Leisure Facilities: More facilities for teenagers.
Youth Club needed to keep teenagers off the street. Anything a disabled person can do to join in with able-bodied people More facilities for children 10 to 16. Something / somewhere for teenagers to meet. They can be a nuisance now, but they have nowhere to go. Improvements in the field next to the children‟s play area. Clubs for the young and retired. Community centre for youths for sport and leisure. The recreational facilities are under used at present. Basket ball, squash and tennis.
Chestfield Health Centre.
74% of respondents use the Chestfield Medical Centre and of these 94% were satisfied with the standard of service. The majority of complaints were about the new appointment system or the loss of Saturday morning appointments. Many Residents‟ comments reflect how lucky Chestfield is to have Chestfield Medical Centre on its doorstep.
Some Residents’ Comments: Things liked. Compared to other areas we are superbly served by a very dedicated and caring team of Doctors and Support Staff. Excellent surgery Hard pressed staff mainly do their best They provide an excellent range of services More than acceptable- we have an excellent G.P ,booking system works, good repeat prescriptions, plus chemist in Swalecliffe provides an excellent service. We have received excellent care. It is excellent. The best I have ever used. Very busy ,but staff mainly helpful.
Things disliked The current appointment system does not suit working people who need non urgent appointments.By 8 a.m. we are already in Canterbuy.. The out-of-hours service covers too large an area to be effective and safe. Service at Chestfield medical Centre was excellent until revised by the new system. Now they do their best.
Highways and Byways
The responses to the questionnaire relating to road and footpath issues (Q11,13,17,22,27,28) revealed several key points which will need to be considered both by the Parish Plan Steering Group and the Parish Council. It is widely accepted that Chestfield Road now forms one of the primary routes to and from Canterbury and this is reflected in the responses to some of the questions posed. Similarly, over half of the questionnaire respondents indicated that their household had the use of at least 2 cars and therefore, as residents, responsibility for some of the required actions appears to be in our own hands.
A major concern within the parish is the speeding traffic along Chestfield Road with 79% of replies believing this to be a problem. The majority of parishioners were aware of the Speedwatch campaign, initially set up to counteract this, however over half of the replies wanted traffic calming measures to be introduced. Many comments at the Open Day and on the questionnaires supported the introduction of Reactive Speed Control Signs
Given how busy Chestfield Road has become, many residents felt that there is a need for additional safe crossings to be installed, particularly to assist children when crossing to the play park and all those who have to cross the road due to the lack of a continuous footpath along the whole of Chestfield Road.
Chestfield is relatively close to the Crab & Winkle Cycle Way, which runs from Whitstable to Canterbury. This appears to be sufficient for just under half of the residents, who thought that cycling facilities were adequate. However it was noted that there also appears to be a demand for more specific cycle routes from Chestfield to either link with the Crab & Winkle Way or to have specific way-marked routes to Canterbury or Whitstable.
Throughout Chestfield there are many footpaths and bridleways and approximately 41% of those who replied use them at least once a week. However 83% rated them as important or quite important to have within the village.
There were many comments about the poor maintenance of the footways and roads.
Residents’ Comments. Things liked: The many walks. No through traffic in some areas – safe for children. Pleasant walking available about the village. All of Chestfield apart from fast traffic. Things disliked: Many residents complained about the poor state of the roads and footways. Poor road safety (A2990 crossing is dangerous) Maydowns Road exit to Chestfield Road is worse since the crossing was put in. Lack of footpaths along Chestfield Road. Having to cross the road between Cherry orchard and the Play Park because no pavement on that side of the road. Lack of continuous walkway in Chestfield Road. Inconsiderate parking on the main road. Selfish parking outside St. Joseph‟s on Sundays. Difficult pedestrian access to the village from Broomfield Gate. Speeding on Polo Way is increasing and a serious accident is not far away The speed the traffic comes up Molehill Road and lack of a mirror opposite the Drove to see oncoming traffic and golfers Not enough Pedestrian crossings No cycle path to Canterbury ,Whitstable or HerneBay Congestion caused by W.I. meetings There is sufficient room for a continuous path in Chestfield Road .We all need one. There is no pavement along most of Molehill Road and it is dangerous to walk along. I would like to reinforce the very real need for a footpath and cyclists‟ provision on Radfall Hill All paths are uneven. I get tipped about in my wheelchair. No crossings. Cars over paths. Residents’ suggestions for traffic problems: The most efficient form of speed control for villages such as ours is to have a sign that lights up warning of excess speed. An actual cycle track that could connect safely to the Crab and Winkle route. Do something to avoid cycles on paths. The speed of traffic on Chestfield Road. As a previous resident of Herne I am impressed by
their efforts at controlling speed through the village.Clearly marked controls. Perhaps Chestfield could look at this. Main roads do need a safe cycle lane – perhaps one pavement – it could be shared, so few people walk. Footpaths could be widened to include bikes/pedestrians. Because of speeding vehicles I feel unsafe on my bicycle on the main Chestfield Road, so sometimes use the path. Better crossing East of the roundabout on the A2990 is still needed. I have campaigned for this for 8 years.
Transport
For those who have cars, Chestfield is well positioned, with easy access to motorways and Canterbury only a 20 minute drive away. In today‟s society the majority of homeowners have a least one car. Chestfield is no exception; with only 4% of those households that returned the questionnaire having no car compared to 50% of owners with 2.
For those that do not have access to a car, Chestfield is served by an hourly bus service to and from Canterbury. Unfortunately the results from the questionnaire on bus transport were inconclusive and gave a mixed picture as to whether the service was satisfactory, although the numbers would seem to show that those who actually use the buses think they are not sufficiently frequent. General feedback in comments from the questionnaire was that the cost was high and the service poor in early afternoon with no service after 7p.m.
Over 50 children travel to Swalecliffe school and the possibility of a walking bus was discussed at the Open Day, but there was a lack of response to this idea, chiefly due to the lack of a continuous path, no safe crossings in Chestfield Road and the difficulty in crossing the road once under the railway bridge.
Chestfield has its own railway station (which is partially manned), allowing trips to London and Thanet. Half of Chestfield residents use the trains, with adults being the main users. The main reason for using the train is work or trips to London. 18% are children that use the trains primarily for school and shopping.
Train use
School university 6%
Work Other 28% 45%
Shopping 21%
Transport to hospitals acceptable?
300 252 250 215 200 170 Yes 150 No 100 50 28 0 Canterbury Ashford/Margate
The above bar chart is the response to the question: “Is transportation to available hospitals acceptable?”
With Kent and Canterbury Hospital‟s A and E Department now reduced to a 24 hour Emergency Care Centre and with various other services only available at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, Margate or the William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, many people find transport to the hospitals (particularly Ashford and Margate) unacceptable if they are unable to use a car.
Residents comments
Things liked: The new Triangle Bus Service is very welcome I am happy with the 4/6 bus service, now even half hourly on Sundays and the 5 is a better service than it has ever been, except in the evenings Whitstable volunteer Bureau are very helpful with their transport scheme
Things disliked: Lack of regular public transport Bus service not frequent enough Everything to do with the station .No car park, Station not manned, building dilapidated Lack of public transport in the evenings to Canterbury and Whitstable I am sure it would be difficult to get to Ashford or Margate Hospitals without your own transport. Better shelter needed at the railway station
Policing and Security
Over 83 % of residents would like to see more active policing and very many would support Special Constables and Community Wardens. 47 % of residents consider that they are members of Neighbourhood Watch, but 76 % would like to be members if it were available in their area. When asked what would make their community feel safer nearly 80 % would feel safer with more policing. 10 % consider that an active Neighbourhood Watch would make them feel safer and 10% would feel safer if there were traffic calming on Chestfield Road. Many residents‟ comments stated that they already felt very safe.
Some Residents’ comments on what would make them feel safer. Moving on the gangs of teenagers who loiter on street corners. Build up stronger community spirit. Enforcing speed limit more effectively in Chestfield Road. A more vibrant Neighbourhood watch
It does feel safe Control of the hooligan element Be more alert to strange faces I have never had cause to feel that Chestfield is unsafe in my 41 years here. We should be more positive and thankful and not induce fear. More community social interaction and more lighting. Police presence on foot near the Total Garage on Friday and Saturday nights For children - keeping the playgrounds free of litter, graffiti, broken glass and other signs of nuisance/abuse of facilities or substances. Speed cameras in Chestfield Road - urgent. Stop cycling on pavements.
Questionnaire Results
You and Chestfield
Q.1. Please complete the box below for all of the people normally resident in your household.(In the boxes please state how many in each age category)
Age profile 0 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 30 31- 45 46 -65 66 -75 76 + Male =717 41 24 32 44 42 97 250 139 48 Female =760 34 25 41 35 29 115 289 125 67 Total 1477 75 49 73 79 71 212 539 264 115
Q.2. How many years have you lived in Chestfield?
<1 1- 2 3 - 5 6 -10 10 - 20 20 > 39 62 99 98 164 178
Housing
Q.3.Do you think more housing is needed in Chestfield? If so, please indicate below what type you think this should be.
Young Peoples‟ Large Retired Local Low None 32 5 25 46 15 566
Transport
Q. 4. How often do you /your family use the bus service in or out of the village ?
Daily Once a Week Twice a Week Once a Month Rarely Never
57 22 20 55 529
Q.5. Are you happy with the frequency of the bus service to and from the village?
Yes No 245 137
Q.6 How many cars /light vehicles do you have regular access to in your household?
None 1 2 3 4 + 26 241 342 50 20
Buses
Q.7. Who, in your household, use the buses?
No one Children Me/partner Other 433 85 159 7
Q.8. For what purpose do you use the buses?
School/ Work Shopping Other University 56 24 154 35
Q. 9. Who, in your household, use‟s the train?
No one Children You / Partner Other
337 72 309 6
Q. 10. For what purpose do you use the trains?
School/ Work Shopping Other University 24 108 82 171
Traffic Q. 11.
Yes No Is traffic speeding through the village still a cause for concern 506 132 Are you aware of the speed watch campaign? 547 103 Are you in favour of traffic calming? 341 301 Are the facilities for cyclists adequate- e.g. cycle paths 224 294
If “NO” ,please state where and what you feel improvements can be made.
Cycle To the From paths are Chestfield South To Crab and Swalecliffe Other required Road Street Canterbury Winkle to routes at Way Whitstable 59 12 25 13 19 16
Are there enough pedestrian crossings in Chestfield Road?
Yes No 254 395
Sport, Leisure and Facilities
Q . 12 Are there enough activities and sport/leisure facilities in the village/within 3 miles of the village?
Yes No
480 131
If “ NO”, please specify where and what, you feel, improvements can be made. Comments were grouped by category as follows:-
Indoor Outdoor Facilities for facilities for all facilities for all A Village Hall Keep fit the Disabled ages ages 2 56 58 23 11
Q. 13.How important do you believe the following services and facilities would be to the village of Chestfield?
Please rate each item from 1 to 5 (Where 1 is important and 5 is unimportant) 1 Q 13 Village Facilities Important 2 Neutral 4 Unimportant No Opinion
Shop 261 104 158 9 94 23 Post Office 292 95 135 11 101 17 Village Hall 330 121 128 5 56 12 Church 200 96 229 6 63 45 Public House(s) 143 127 185 21 145 21 School 171 96 199 13 97 50 Recreation Ground 328 154 93 12 39 15 Play Park 349 152 77 11 34 20 Football Pitch 226 152 154 14 57 34 Cricket Pitch 210 157 169 12 51 36 Tennis Court 177 141 197 19 63 28 Footpaths Bridleways 372 171 80 3 12 15
Library Fixed 143 102 201 21 101 25 Library Mobile 136 163 201 15 71 27 Fast Food Outlets 16 24 95 19 460 27 Nursery 178 111 210 20 65 58 Pre-School 154 114 213 18 59 55
Crime and anti-social behaviour
Q.14
Yes No Are the police sufficiently active in the parish? 99 500
Would you support the introduction of Rural Special Constables? 611 36
Do you support the Community Warden Scheme? 486 114
Is a Neighbourhood Watch scheme available in your area ? 457 139 Are you a member of the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme? 291 325 Would you participate in a neighbourhood Watch Scheme? 414 133
Q. 15 What do you think could be done to make your community feel safer?
Comments were grouped by category as follows :-
Keeping the Active More visible Traffic C.C.T.V. play park Neighbourhood Police calming clean watch 220 11 14 3 28
Q 16. Do you consider the street lighting in Chestfield to be as follows:-
About Right? 545
Too Much? 15
Too Little? 110
If too little - please state where you think improvements should be made.
Grasmere General Molehill Road Radfall Road Road problems 10 2 10 57
Countryside and environment
Q. 17. How often do you use the public footpaths/bridleways of Chestfield Parish?
Once a Once a Daily Twice a week Rarely / Never week month
182 96 79 128 194
Q.18. Yes No Are there sufficient dog-waste bins in the village? 194 268 Are there sufficient litterbins in the village? 195 319
If dog fouling is a problem, please state where. The comments were for the following areas
Footpaths e.g. Polo The Play park The Football Ground Way to Maydowns Road 59 20 17
Health Q.19. Yes No Do you use the Medical Centre in Chestfield? 503 176
Q. 20. Yes No Do you find the standard of service at the Chestfield Medical 471 26 Centre acceptable?
Comments were grouped by category as follows:-
Miss Good to Booking Regret the Saturday Poor excellent appointments loss of morning service difficult Candoc service appointments 91 41 16 14 6
Q. 21
Yes No Is Available transport acceptable to Kent and Canterbury 170 252 Hospital? Is available transport acceptable to Q.E.Q.M. Hospital Margate 28 215 and William Harvey Hospital, Ashford
Q.22. The following changes to the Parish have been suggested by a range of people within the Parish.
Yes No An hourly bus service in the evening to/from Canterbury? 464 75 Should there be parking at Chestfield Station? 409 108 An improved cycle-way from Chestfield to Canterbury? 442 116 An improved cycle-way from Chestfield to Whitstable? 458 100 More adult education classes in the day/evening? 366 154 A welcome message/system/pack for newcomers to the village? 387 176 More flowers in the village? 446 126 Improved road maintenance- signs and surfaces? 515 76 More evident policing? 580 45 More low cost housing? 110 467 Should more housing of a type between a large family house and warden assisted housing be built for the active, energetic 261 303 retired to free up larger family homes?
Communications
Yes No Do you read the Parish Council notice boards? 389 253 Do you receive and read the Parish Magazine? 649 20 Do we need a village web site? 227 321 Are you happy with the postal service? 423 227 Are you happy with the quality of T.V. reception? 301 348 Would you like Freeview (with a good signal)? 427 133
Flooding
Q. 24.
Yes No Are you concerned about flooding in the village? 373 281 Are you affected by flooding? If yes, please state which road you 62 493 live in.
Areas affected were as below:-
Maydowns Chestfield Road Shepherds Walk Grasmere Road Road/Plantation under the A.299 area Road 16 9 15 22
Q. 25. Should anything be changed/preserved about the local environment? (Consider wildlife, open spaces, trees, woodland, hedgerows and habitats. Are there any buildings or features that should be protected?) Comments were grouped by category as follows: -
Preserve “AS IT IS”. No housing Preserve the Request A. 299 Keep all green development Barn/Golf Club noise reduction spaces. 249 73 33 4
Q. 26. Please state up to 2 things that you like about Chestfield. Comments were grouped by category as follows:-
Quiet, peaceful The residents of The location of The location of and rural Chestfield the village local amenities 402 161 170 131
Q. 27. Please state up to two things that you dislike about Chestfield. Comments were grouped by category as follows:-
The volume Inconsiderate Lack of and speed of parking near Some of the Noise from community traffic on st. Joseph’s people the A.299 spirit Chestfield Church and Road the W.I. Hall 33 55 57 126 13
Poor recreation Litter and The noise The lack of facilities and The lack of a rubbish from signage in poor village hall dumping fireworks the village maintenance of those we have 54 5 3 32 27
Insufficient road The building of Aircraft flying crossings and too many new over the area poor condition of houses some pavements 88 8 39
Q. 28. Please use the space at the end of the Questionnaire for any comments you may wish to make that have not been covered elsewhere in the Questionnaire. Comments were grouped by category as follows:-
Lack of Lack of There is a The derelict disabled continuous Too much need for car site near facilities and pavement on litter dropped parking at the McDonalds is dropped Chestfield around station an eyesore curbs Road 3 31 7 4 10
Too many speeding Too much Positive Negative cars on noise from comments on comments on Chestfield the A 299 the survey the survey Road 29 12 16 20
Positive Negative comments on the comments on the Too much Parish Council Parish Council Lack of housing and and community spirit development communication communication within the Parish within the Parish 9 10 24 22
Chestfield - Action Plan – Recommendations
The following are some of the key points of the Action Plan produced by the Steering Group,based on the results of the Questionnaire and Open Day
Highways and Byways
The topic of controlling speeding traffic without speed bumps can be tackled by means of roundabouts, reactive signs, crossings and possibly by restricting the width of the road in places which would also enable gaps in the footway to be filled.
A survey of the footways along Chestfield Road showed them to be woefully inadequate; extensive work is needed to provide a safe, continuous footway.
Roadworks are carried out by Kent County Council who produce an Annual Traffic Review towards the end of each year. A number of the projects in the following recommendations have previously been suggested by the Parish Council and some items from the Recommendations have already been added to this list to avoid waiting for another year. Chestfield Parish Council can ask and pressurise, but if/when the work is completed depends on the judgement of KCC Highways and the finance available. Minor works, such as faulty footways, loose drain covers, pot holes etc. can be dealt with more rapidly by reporting them to the Parish Clerk or more directly, to the Highway Inspectors of the
KCC. There is now a scheme of „County Lengthsmen‟, a group who travel around the County sorting out footway problems. The Parish Clerk collects a list of problems to give them when they are due in the district.
Ideas for cycle routes have been proposed, but these may well depend on legal right-of-way considerations .
Transport
With more families moving into the area there is an increasing amount of school traffic travelling along Chestfield Road. At the Open Day the walking bus scheme was mentioned, however there was little uptake. The main reason was the poor footways, no continuous footway along Chestfield Road and the dangerous footway under Swalecliffe Bridge. Unless these problems are improved there will continue to be a flow of traffic towards Swalecliffe Community Primary School. With the increasing pressure of local and central government to produce healthier and greener ways of getting children to school, it is recommended that this be used in evidence of the real need to improve the footways and crossings.
Even though there was a mixed response to the questions relating to the bus service, there were some clearly defined areas of improvements to be made. These were the provision of an early evening service, bus shelters and improved access to the bus stops. A survey carried out recently at the Cherry Orchard request stop showed that it was dangerous, as there was no footway or hard standing to enable disabled access. This was not the only stop to be found with inadequate access. The stops along Chestfield Road, by Grasmere Road and the Ridgeway, only have a footway on one side. Crossing the road at these points is dangerous. It is therefore recommended that these areas be considered for improved footways, along with the recommendation for a continuous footway along Chestfield Road and for improved crossing facilities.
Chestfield and Swalecliffe Station is used by adults to travel to London as well as school children to travel to Faversham and Thanet. Parking around the station is a problem and there were comments by residents in the questionnaire regarding the need for a car park. Both Chestfield and Swalecliffe suffer from on street parking. Obtaining a location for a car park is difficult and would need to be addressed by both communities.
Environment
A request for more litter and dog waste bins was made to Canterbury City Council in 2005 and some success has been achieved in this area with the installation of additional litter bins and the identification of sites for more dog waste bins, although C.C.C. will not install some of these until residents living nearby have approved the sites.
From the questionnaire our footpaths were rated as very important and therefore it is recommended that the council look into ways of maintaining them. Residents can also help by supporting the P.C. on their footpath clearing days, which are organised several times a year. The Parish Council can also use evidence contained in this Parish Plan to support the residents‟ wishes for „no more housing‟ and to maintain our borders, preventing us merging with surrounding towns.
Residents can also help our environment by reporting lighting, drainage and footpath problems to the parish council so that action can be taken.
Policing & Security
This section is one that because of its nature is largely outside of local control, however, much can be done with some encouragement of the parishioners…
Sharing information as quickly as possible and ensuring that relevant information is acted on with the appropriate care and diligence, should be the goal. This can be greatly helped by more ACTIVE Neighbourhood Watch schemes being created throughout the village. Then, by making best use of these watches, enable co-ordinated information to be gathered and ensure that the appropriate actions are carried out. Also by ensuring that, where appropriate, the local Policing activities are given the right level of publicity so that many residents actually know what is happening in the village?
From the above, the actions required are:
More active watches need to be created by encouraging villagers to become co-ordinators for their street or part of a street.
A regular contact needs to be created with the local police officers and specials in order to build an understanding of the issues within the village
An appropriate route created for the passing of information for publicity of police activities affecting our village.
Activities and Leisure
The Parish Council is investigating possible sites for a Parish Hall. If a suitable site can be found, the next step will be to consult residents. If it is decided to go ahead a working party or Steering Group will be set up to carry the project forward.
Try to build up more local activities, which will encourage villagers to get together on a frequent and regular basis in order to create a better community spirit, which would also be engendered by providing a “ Welcome Pack” for new residents. Encourage enthusiasm from people who might have an interest in starting a village activity.(N.B. An excellent example is the table tennis club set up by Linda Wickings, which has been highly praised by the wide age range of those attending)
To remedy the poor provision for older children and teenagers at the Play Park, the possibility of a ball park was investigated, but Canterbury City Council informed us that the site was not suitable due to the appearance of ball parks and the noise that they create. The Parish Council hope to replace the old football goal posts with 5-a-side football goals and nets. Eventually a basket ball net with disabled access and a „teen‟ shelter, where teenagers can sit and chat, is a possibility.
Chestfield Parish Plan - Action Plan and Recommendations
Recommendation Ideas for action/How will it be done When Who Funding Possibilities 1. Highways and Byways To attempt to prevent To investigate provision of Flashing Speed 2006 Chestfield Parish Council C.P.C. speeding vehicles throughout Indicator signs and/or speed cameras Kent County the village. Council Increase overall awareness of problem via 2006 C.P.C. via web-site and Parish Magazine, website. magazine To investigate other traffic Parish Council to make enquiries to KCC Annual K.C.C.Highways K.C.C. calming measures (mindful Highways re: Transport that majority of residents Marking of road to reinforce 30 mph limits. Review said they do not want traffic Roundabout at Molehill Road and fish tail K.C.C. humps.) markings from there to Golf Club Highways Five-leg roundabout at Maydowns Road See recommendations under continuous footway
To ensure that there are Parish Council to investigate: Annual K.C.C. sufficient “safe” methods of A zebra crossing to be placed in the area of Transport crossing Chestfield Road Radfall Recreation Ground. (Football at Review K.C.C.Highways weekends now includes one if not two juvenile K.C.C. football teams with attendant families. Plus a lot Highways more dog walkers using Radfall Rec. because Grasmere Pastures is shut to them.) A crossing at entrance to the playpark to ensure children can access safely.
To ensure that, where Identify particular areas where repairs are Ongoing Residents identified, repairs are carried required. out on footways in a timely Establish forum so that deficiencies can be Ongoing Parish Council manner. easily reported to Parish Council.
FOR INFORMATION: Footpaths and carriageways - repairs do get Ongoing KCC Highways done on an ongoing basis but major schemes go into a yearly bidding pot.
Inspections are carried out: Ongoing KCC Highways Main roads = monthly Estate roads = twice yearly Footpaths = yearly But if a member of the public complains then an Ongoing Residents may highlight repairs additional inspection is organised. Ring the district council and ask for Highways inspectors. That Chestfield should have Recommend that this should be on the East side A.T.R. K.C.C. a continuous footway along K.C.C. K.C.C. Highways the Chestfield Road Highways Footway in front of 143, to produce a A.T.R. K.C.C. Highways K.C.C. constriction in the road and help reduce traffic K.C.C. speed. Highways By the Oast Houses either compulsory order on front gardens or build footway to produce constriction or move the road over to the West. Alternatively: Provide controlled crossings at No 143 and the Oast Houses and extra footwayto link them on the Western side of the road. Dropped kerbs where To investigate dropped kerbs at: A.T.R. K.C.C. Highways K.C.C. pavements end to enable The entrance and exit to Golf Club car park. K.C.C. crossing to opposite Opposite the end of the footway South of Highways footways. Willow Way ( Very High Kerb) Footway on the West side from bus stop to Primrose Way On the West side - Primrose Way and Ridgeway,East side –south of Willow Way opposite termination of footway. Footway needed on Radfall A.T.R. K.C.C. Highways K.C.C. Hill and Molehill Road K.C.C. Highways Desire for more parking at Increase present parking area. Hedges to be Ongoing Canterbury City Council C.C.C./ Football the recreation ground. kept low to reduce night time activities! Association Grants
To increase the number of Suggest: mark a cycle route – Grasmere Road- 2006 K.C.C. K.C.C. safe routes available to Lismore Road- Rayham Road to the Crab and Cycle route adviser cyclists within the village, Winkle cycle route. ensuring, where possible, that links are made to other Preferably: Provide a dedicated cycle route cycle routes. along the North side of the recreation ground to join footpath CW 27 then CW 27A to Rayham Road for Whitstable via the Crab and Winkle line. For Canterbury: after crossing the Brook on CW 27 turn left onto CW 21 to South Street to join the Crab and Winkle route going South. Cycle route marked on Chestfield Road to K.C.C. K.C.C. reduce road width to help prevent speeding. Cycle route adviser Investigate attempts to Silent road surfacing for the new Thanet Way. Next re- K.C.C. Highways K.C.C. reduce noise from new Identify areas for planting to develop natural surfacing Thanet Way ( A 299) noise barriers. Footpaths. Try to form a village rambling group to Ongoing Chestfield Society waymark and keep open village footpaths. Residents Web-site and magazine Use parish website and magazine to publicise need to keep footpaths cleared. 2. Transport Consideration be given to Discuss possible Walking Bus scheme May open Little interest shown. decrease the volume of traffic day.Done. through Chestfield at school run times Investigate a mini bus service as an C.P.C & School alternative to walking bus Ongoing To investigate residents‟ desire Locations of stops needing shelters. Ongoing C.P.C./ C.C.C./ C.P.C./ C.C.C./ for bus shelters K.C.C./Stagecoach K.C.C./ Stagecoach Evaluate bus stops to ensure Determine which stops need improved Ongoing Stagecoach C.C.C./ K.C.C./ that they comply with new paving (ie hard standing, kerbs or Stagecoach regulations for disabled users relocation) Cherry Orchard is a request stop - check with users if either (i) re-siting or (ii) a path to the stop or (iii) Request for a permanent stop here is warranted
Consideration for a car park at (Dependent on station remaining open.) C.C.C. C.C.C. the train station to alleviate on- Discuss the need /size for a car park .Train S.E. trains S.E. trains street parking in roads near the users survey to determine the need station Support to be given to Representation at meetings regarding C.P.C. S.E. Trains maintaining Chestfield station closure. and keeping it open Consideration that children travel by train to Faversham & Thanet schools. Consideration be given to a bus Feasibility study to be carried out if the need K.C.C. K.C.C. service to Whitstable station if arises Chestfield closes Consideration be given to an Feasibility study to be carried out Questionnaire via parish Stagecoach early evening bus service to magazine C.C.C. Canterbury and Whitstable K.C.C. 3. Environment Installation of more litter bins Locations decided at May Open day event Done Steering group C.C.C. Request and install Installation of more dog bins Locations decided at May Open day event Steering group C.C.C. Request and install Ongoing Investigate ways to combat dog Residents to monitor the area in which they Residents fouling and enforce dog-messing live and to report to wardens. CCC Dog Wardens C.C.C. violations Dog owners to patrol their walk areas and to Environment and Street Scene monitor times that fouling is occurring and to inform wardens Wardens to patrol areas at given times and hand out fines.
Consideration for more and Identify locations for more street lighting May open Residents should report improved street lighting Light pollution to be minimized where day. problems to Parish possible Lights now Councillors. Old lights to be replaced by anti-light along Molehill Wardens also do this pollution ones Road Consideration be given for the Location(s) to be decided 2006 Parish council to decide with Residents request for more trees residents C.P.C. Support be given to the request Under the local plan no more housing has Parish plan to be used to by residents for no more been allocated for this area up until 2010 support the residents and housing council Overgrown hedges blocking Residents to report locations C.P.C. footpaths . Investigate cost for a local contract C.P.C.
company to do work Possibly use community/Probationary Advert in parish magazine service regarding a ramblers club, Possible ramblers club to be set up to help discuss with WI, Chestfield clear paths society, and rotary club. Request be given for help to dog walkers who use the paths Investigate blocked ditches in Establish responsibility for the ditches and Ongoing Riparian Owners Grasmere road ensure they are regularly cleared Investigate the problem of Discuss with highways the need for better C.P.C. K.C.C. flooding under Swalecliffe bridge drainage of surface water at these locations, K.C.C. and A299 bridge if necessary.
4. Policing and Security To see more visible signs of Publicise as many of the activities as we can Regular Chestfield now has a S.P.C. Police activities via village magazine and Web site and via ongoing and a P.C. and two (Police patrols may be neighbourhood watch representatives Neighbourhood Wardens happening BUT are not as A regular contact needs to be created with They attend Parish Council evident as could be) the local police officers and specials so as to meetings and the Wardens build an understanding of the issues within hold monthly surgeries. the village Information on the web-site An appropriate path created for the passing and magazine of information for publicity of police activities affecting our village.
Activities for school children Gather enthusiasm from people who would 2006 Advertise in the Parish after school / holidays-to reduce have an interest in starting a village activity Magazine and the Parish Web- vandalism,graffiti etc. Introduction of more village activities/ clubs site Continuation of the Street Runner C.P.C. Local constable and / or Special to be Residents encouraged to attend
Action against anti-social To continue initiatives to combat problems Ongoing C.P.C. C.P.C. behaviour. Control of the via the Community Wardens, Police, Public C.C.C. C.C.C. hooligan element safety Unit Community Development K.C.C. K.C.C. activities, Street Runner etc. Publicise what activities are available in the Parish Magazine and Web-site area
FOR INFORMATION: All residents can report in confidence any instances of anti-social behaviour, vandalism, graffiti, neighbour disputes to The Public Safety Unit, Gordon Road, Herne Bay on 01227 289260, email [email protected] Keep play grounds free of litter, Clear signs. Report to C.P.C. C.C.C. glass, graffiti and other signs of All users to be encouraged to keep clean. Ongoing C.C.C. nuisance or substance abuse Place visible phone number for council action Wardens or Environment and for removal of unsafe items Street Scene Ask young people to respect the Ongoing Residents village to conserve what we have We recommend villagers comply Remember crime rates in Chestfield are low. Ongoing with the advice of Police to The fear of crime does exist although most report to them all incidents, villagers feel safe. crimes and any suspicious Recommendation that the Parish Council behaviour. publicise details of how to report crimes – to Parish Magazine and Web-site either the local Police and /or the Public safety Unit so that a true picture of the village may be obtained. Wardens taking more pro-active NB Wardens do attend Parish Council Ongoing part in the activities of youths meetings and report on their activities. They and children. They need to be hold monthly surgeries and sometimes available out of business hours! attend Streetrunner. Neighbourhood watch / Be more A continuous campaign is required to start Ongoing Any resident wishing to alert to strange faces more watches throughout the village. become a coordinator for their street or part of street to contact Parish Council Amenities and Activities To support the desire for a Locate suitable landsite Ongoing C.P.C. Grants Community Centre in the village C.P.C. C.C.C. Chestfield Parish Council to invite the K.C.C. formation of a Working Party/Steering Group 2006 C.P.C. Fund raising to investigate the whole issue of a possible Donations Village Hall, by advertising in the magazine and Web-site and local papers.
To support the development of To look at multi-sports park and netting, Ongoing C.P.C. C.C.C. the Play Park, with particular although these are popular with teenagers C.C.C. regard to the older children there is a site problem due to noise and Grants alternative equipment may be needed. Consult local teenagers. Fund raising Look at ways of stopping unwanted gatherings and drug use by providing security lighting. Get plans drawn up of proposed development Apply for planning permission Done Make application for grants and funding Replace picnic table Replanting That consideration is given to Contact large grocery chain companies to 2006 C.C.C.Economic Regeneration options for local shops and post look at whether or not they would be office interested in opening in Chestfield. New clubs/classes/activities/ Any resident interested in setting up a new 2006 Residents Awards for All groups to be setup in village class or group please contact the Parish Council for publicity and support. To develop a “welcome pack” Produce post card, which could be left at 2006 Steering Group for new residents Estate Agents, to give to new residents with C.P.C. their keys. These post cards could then be sent to the Parish Clerk, who would send a welcome pack to the new resident. Link with website Develop links with local estate agents
Acknowledgements
For Support and Funding Chestfield Parish Council for support and funding. Linda Livingstone (Parish Clerk) -for much advice. Amanda Sparkes (Canterbury City Council) for unstinting support throughout. Victoria Lawson (Action for Communities in Rural Kent)for her support and help with grant applications. Eddie Peters (C.C.C.) For advice on the Playpark. Mike Harrison (Kent County Council) for support and funding.
CanDo Fund (C.C.C.) –grant. David Fitzpatrick- donation . Anonymous Donor Questionnaire prizewinner- donation For their Written Contributions Tony Blake (History of Chestfield, and for the use of his old photos) Revd. Amanda Evans ( St. John‟s Parish Church) Father St. Aubyn ( St.Joseph‟s Roman Catholic Church) Tony Reece (Free Church- Baptist) The Chestfield Society The Swalecliffe with Chestfield Women‟ Institute Chestfield Golf Club Chestfield Rotary Club Maydowns Road Association Radfall and Broomfieldgate Amenity Society Linda Wickings for all her help with the printing of the Parish Plan, Questionnaires and fliers
The Steering Group Many thanks to all members of the Steering Group and volunteers for their commitment over the long period of the production of the Plan. Sheila Finch (Chairman) Louise Foreman (Vice Chairman) Philip Lennard (Secretary)
Sue Cochraine (Treasurer) Len Claisse (Parish Councillor) John Finch(Parish Councillor)
David Fitzpatrick(Parish Councillor) Lesley Goldsack Peter Goldsack
Deborah Johnson Brian Pain Carolyn Raychawdhuri
Mick Shorter (Parish Councillor)
A very special ”Thank You” to Louise Foreman, Philip Lennard and Mick Shorter for the collation of all the data, in spite of all having a very busy life. Also to Sheila and John Finch for providing the venue for meetings and for editing the plan.
Our Volunteer support
Mike Battson, Colin Harrison, Jean Major, Judy Packwood and all the other people, who helped with delivery of Questionnaires and (hopefully!) the completed Parish Plan
Tony’s old photo of the Golf Club
Inside back cover
Outside back cover