Pilning and Severn Beach Parish Plan 2009 Back Cover Map Based upon the Ordnance Survey mapping with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. (Pilning & Severn Beach Parish Council, Licence Number WL1005113) elh oilSrie n le epe 24 6 Acknowledgments Youth 45 Parish/Village Action Religious Twinning Environment Plan Groups Information, 43 38 Sport 42 44 Communication Employment and Retail and 33 Emergency andOlder People Health,SocialServices Leisure and Housing 26Local Services 34 Other Education Government and Transport 23 Services 12 5 36 Action Community and 32 9 4 The Plans 7 Security Highways Section Information,CommunicationandLocalGovernment Youth 19 Section 28 20 Section10 13 Section Section 12 Parish/Village 11 Religious Section andCommunitySecurity Emergency Services (Under Twinning Environment Section Section6 Groups 9 15 Section andOlderPeople Health,SocialServices 18s) Sport 8 14 15 Section4 Employment 16 7 Section and Retail 3 11 5 Section Leisure and Housing Section 8 11 3 Section Other Education andIntroduction toParishPlan 2 ofParishHistory BriefSummary 3 Summary Transport 7 1 Services 2 Household of and 1 10 Introductory and Results Highways Message Personal 2 5 of CONTENTS Questionnaire 4 4 1
Parish Plan 2009 INTRODUCTORY MESSAGE
In 2000, the Government published a Rural It is not proposed to give a lengthy history White Paper and the idea of Parish Plans of the Parish as this is well documented was born. Plans were intended to highlight elsewhere. Two examples are given below. We the problems that need to be tackled and apologise to those who may not have internet requirements to preserve the distinctive access but details of the history could be character and features of a Parish. obtained from the Clerk of the Parish Council and the Secretary of the local History Group if Through talking to groups, School-heads and you wanted this. the Friends of the two schools, at Parish Events and undertaking Pilot Questionnaires, Since the amalgamation of the various districts the Parish Plan Questionnaire was developed. of Pilning, Severn Beach, Redwick, Northwick and New Passage under the composite title The following pages set out the findings and of Pilning and Severn Beach Parish there has recommendations based on the answers and been housing, light industrial and motorway comments of you the Parishioners, including development but this has not necessarily been the youth of the Parish. matched with the infrastructure required and It is worth mentioning that even before a number of local amenities and services have the adoption of this Plan, and on the basis been lost.
Pilning and Severn Beach of statistics and comments obtained from The Parish still retains its rural feel Parishioners, it has been possible to obtain however, and retains a mix of developed and grants to help in the locality and to pay agricultural land giving opportunity for access expenses behind the Farmers Market. This using the many public footpaths, and use of encourages us to know that further funding is the various playing fields and open spaces. ‘out there’ if only we can take positive strides towards the Actions proposed. There are a considerable number of voluntary groups and associations that continue to On behalf of the Steering Group, we thank function and serve the community. all the volunteers, helpers and most of all everyone who expressed their opinions and completed the Pilning and Severn Beach Questionnaire.
See “Introduction to Pilning & Severn Beach History” at
www.severnbeach.com
Jane Davey Barbara Matthews Chair of Steering Group Chair of Steering Group [2006-2009] [2009 - Present]
2 BRIEF SUMMARY OF PARISH HISTORY AND INTRODUCTION TO THE PARISH PLAN
In 2006 at the instigation of the Parish Council The former Steering Group, now to be known discussions and preparations started that led as the Action Group, will be responsible for to the setting up of a Steering Group drawn overseeing the initial implementation of the from residents in the Parish and a Parish Action Plans and ensuring that progress is Council representative. With funding from being made and the improvements achieved. It Community Action and the Parish Council a is hoped that more people will join the Action lot of preparatory work was done that led to a Group after the adoption of this Plan. Questionnaire finally being circulated in 2007 Space will not allow the full details of the to 1405 households, with a response from 840 questions and comments to be included in this households representing 1409 respondents. Plan but every response to the questions has
The information obtained highlights issues been recorded and the extensive comments Parish Plan 2009 and priorities that a large proportion of the also. The latter were the main reason for the residents of the Parish want addressed. When it delay in collating the information because these was started it was meant to produce an initial 5 comments were the expression of the hearts year plan covering all main aspects of living in and minds of Parishioners and added more the Parish, but with a change in regulations this substance to the questions that might have only will be an ongoing plan, the implementation of required a selective response (as important as which will be under periodic reviews. Although that is). Where percentage figures are stated there is reference in the Action Plans to short, these have been rounded up or down to the medium or long-term goals no specific time limit nearest figure to make reading easier. has been set out as to the terms of the goals, but The Questionnaires are retained by the they are meant to establish a target of aims! Parish Council together with a full copy of the The Plan is a strategic document intended for Comments, the Statistical Analysis and other the benefit of the entire community and contains appropriate documentation. These are held in a proposals for real change which we trust will combination of electronic form and hard copies. yield tangible long lasting improvements. In a number of Sections it should be noted that From the information obtained in the there is a variation in the number of respondents Questionnaire and subsequent consultation as not all the questions were answered by and discussions with people, groups and everyone. organisations, the Steering Group identified A summary of the comments is also given in some key issues and created Action Plans to some of the Sections where it is considered move towards these objectives. The Parish appropriate and helpful, and backs up the Plan is a community document that will require various Action Plans that appear later in this dedication, enthusiasm and input from as many Plan. residents and others as is possible. It only has value if everybody chooses to opt in and make it Finally, the explanatory paragraphs previously work. Ideally various Working Groups, targeted included in each Section of the Questionnaire towards the specific aims of the Action Plans, are repeated in this Plan. should be set up.
3 SUMMARY OF RESULTS OF QUESTIONNAIRES
By way of introduction the Questionnaires The below diagram shows the various reasons revealed the following general statistics: for living in the Parish from highest to lowest:
Section 1 Household and Personal 400 On the basis of those who included the information in their replies, the gender of 350 respondents was divided, with 657 male and 300 742 female. Again, when indicated, the age groups were as follows: 250
Age Over 200 17-25 26-35 36-50 51-60 61-75 group 75
150 Love country life Male 20 63 185 119 126 25 Relatives nearby
100 Retirement Female 28 93 176 132 117 18 Housing availability Love of village life 50
This represents a good cross-section of the Setting up home Like the area House suitability Came with family Born here in area Work Marriage 0 Pilning and Severn Beach community divided as follows: 1.06 How did you come to live in the Parish? New North- Red- Severn Pilning Other Passage wick wick Beach 35 22 210 36 526 3
As can be seen from the table alongside a 98 large proportion have actually resided in the Parish for over 25 years with 176 people 313 506 having lived in the Parish all their lives. The other figures indicate that once here, many residents tend to stay which actually strengthens the reasons for the Parish Plan 359 159 as benefitting a stable population that care about their community.
In fact, of the reasons given for living here, only a little over 8% represented those who were born in the Parish. Over 25 16-24 6-15 1-5 Less than 1
4 In trying to establish the various utility nature of areas within the Parish, but we services available to properties the following need to attempt ways of tackling problems. was revealed: Statistical analysis of Questionnaire answers 1000
800
600 Parish Plan 2009
400
2.01 42% use the bus regularly or 200 occasionally [6% reg. 36% occ.] 58% never
0 Mains sewerage Mains gas Telephone Mobile phone Internet access Satellite television 2.02 80% agree that more destinations were required 1.07 Does your home have:
Whilst the main sewerage statistic exceeds the number of households responding, services are on the whole pretty consistent. This question was answered by persons 1 and 2 from many of the same households and is not as factual as we would have liked!
[1.08 and 1.09] Statistics regarding carers and long-term illness or disability are included in Section 4 - Health, social services and older 2.07 Using train services - 1% daily; 2% people. several times a week; 53% occ.; 44% Section 2 Transport and Highways never 2.08 If the train services were improved and Concerns in this area are raised probably available to serve the various parts of more than any other and affects speed, the Parish more efficiently, 24% said parking and pollution amongst other issues. they would use it more often. The These are not problems that can necessarily individual area breakdown was as be resolved, not least because of the diverse follows:
5 Severn Beach - 731 respondents of whom 15% Other statistics: would use more often Pilning - 362 respondents of whom 34% would use more often Northwick - 33 respondents of whom 39% would use more often Redwick - 59 respondents of whom 44% would use more often New Passage - 53 respondents of whom 35% would use more often 2.09 86% would like to see a train stop at 2.19 Traffic speed was of great concern to Avonmouth Park & Ride 78% of respondents [41% strongly agree, 37% agree] 2.10 62% would like to see a park and ride at Severn Beach 2.20 61% would like to see more calming measures 2.11 64% were satisfied with the timetable at the time of Questionnaire but that Particular roads were identified where Pilning and Severn Beach timetable has radically changed and speeding was a concern. changes every 6 months. This has The overwhelming conclusions of the lead to the proposed actions set out in statistics was that the whole transport Section 2 - Action Plan. service to the Parish was considered woefully 2.13 Problems encountered with train and inadequate and the high number of comments bus: made highlighted the concerns and were Lateness of train 218 people; accompanied by many suggestions. failure to arrive 344; lateness of bus 88; failure to arrive 89. From growing feedback this has not been 2.16 With the exception of the local shops helped by the changes that have taken place not surprisingly the greater proportion since the Questionnaires were completed, of people used a car or van to travel to particularly as regards the train service to work, school, shops outside villages, the Beach and the loss of the Rail link bus to doctors and social. Avonmouth (as unpopular as this was!) but generally the revised bus service is definitely 2.18 59% would use public transport if there an improvement. were integrated public transport and 60% if there was an integrated fare Whilst there is a desire to see many more structure. [Note: Overall response to bus destinations available in the Parish, this question was around 10% (63 Thornbury was undoubtedly the destination respondents) and 7% (48 respondents) where a regular service was wanted most. respectively more than question 2.01, Other popular destinations were Avonmouth, so possible increase of use is not easy Bristol, Filton, Shirehampton, Yate and not to establish.]
6 surprisingly local hospitals. This corresponded in part to the stated work destinations with the areas of Bristol, Filton/ Patchway , Cribbs and Aztec West, Bradley Stoke and Southmead being the ones most mentioned.
Any improvements to the bus service would have to pay attention to the expressed needs for additional stops and shelters. If people are to be encouraged to use any bus service ease of access and adequate protection from the Parish Plan 2009 weather is a must.
As poor as the transport service is, many For each activity the majority were in favour felt this could only be worsened by ongoing as follows: development, both in the Parish and After School Clubs 78% surrounding area. Holiday Play Schemes 80% Section 3 Education Adult Classes 81%
The number of those responding to this question represented 48% of those who could have responded.
With the development of the new school in Pilning consideration should be given to the provision of appropriate space and opportunity for Parish social needs as above.
There were primarily 3 main areas of need identified; 1. Childcare/activities for younger children, in particular some form of Breakfast Club although with working parents the whole Both Wards have pre-school and primary range of needs need to be explored. school facilities in the Parish, and Secondary facilities outside the Parish. 2. Keeping school-aged children ‘off the streets’ and distracted from mindless The question asked in this section was “Would vandalism through extension of facilities you like to see more After School Clubs, and activities. This will be looked at in more Holiday Play Schemes, Adult Classes?” [3.01] detail under the Youth Section [page 16].
7 3. Local U3A groups and indeed general Adult mobility. [4.02] requirements during the day and evening [Note: These last two sections need to be with specifi c mention of art and keep fi t looked at carefully as there are discrepancies classes. As these last two are already in the perception of the adequacy of services available in or adjoining the Parish more and accommodation.] adequate publicity may be required. IT/ When dealing with the wider issues of computer courses will be investigated accessing various National Health services further under the appropriate Action Plan. and others identifi ed in the Questionnaire Section 4 Health, Social Services and this was not considered to be a problem by Older People the majority of people. [4.03] as shown by the following graph. The burden of care required in the Parish can only increase over the coming years and
will need the community to respond together 1200 Yes with ways of sharing the burden. The Census 1000 No
in 2001 resulted in 3,442 people in the Parish Doctor Dentist
800 Chemist Hospital of which 11.8% were 65 or over. Pensioners Optician living alone 21.4% As the population’s 600 Pilning and Severn Beach average age is increasing this section is even 400
more important for those who will reach Chiropodist Physiotherapist Out of Hours Doctor
Number of Respondents 200 Loan of Medical Equipment Health Visitor
retirement in 5 to 10 years time. Home Help Help for Children with Disabilities Recognising that statistics can often portray 0 Social Worker a different picture or unwittingly create an 4.03 Have you had any diffi culty accessing the following? attitude that can cloud the issues, care has to be taken, particularly in this section. However, with constant changes facing the Only 4% of respondents identifi ed themselves National Health and ever increasing demands as permanent carers to an adult in the household being made there should be plans to support but that is 58 people. There are probably more, the existing Medical services within the Parish but the Questionnaire did not delve deeper as and to consider how these can be extended. to the needs that might arise. [1.08] It says something good for the Parish when Similarly, 13% had a long-term illness or only 17% felt isolated, and for those who felt disability and that equates to 172 people. ‘often’ isolated the fi gure dropped to 2.5%. [1.09] [4.04] Having said that, one person is too 53% agreed or strongly agreed that services many! for the disabled or permanently sick were 76% agreed that parking places for the adequate, obviously leaving 47% who disabled should be provided outside local disagreed. [4.01] shops [4.05] but with space at a premium and 42% considered there was enough suitable the question of preventing abuse by non- accommodation for those with limited disabled drivers not immediately resolvable
8 the way ahead is not clear. With possible However, there was a felt need for limited changes to legislation being considered in in-filling and maybe a small development of Parliament this should be a matter of ongoing suitable purpose-built housing for pensioners review by the Parish Council. and disabled residents. Not surprisingly Access to the Binn Wall was considered perhaps, the threat of global warming adequate by 72% [4.06] but the comments and thereby the risk of more flooding was showed a considerable dissatisfaction with mentioned. access for the disabled. 83% felt disabled parking spaces should be 300 available at the old Severn Bridge Visitor’s
Centre [4.07] but with its closure this is no 250 Parish Plan 2009 longer applicable.
Section 5 Housing 200 As well as local concerns there are issues in adjoining Parishes that will have an impact 150 on our Parish. These are ongoing matters Disabled Friendly Homes Sheltered Housing Sheltered Large Family Homes Large Semi-Detachced that will have to be kept under review but, in 100 the meantime, the following information will Terraced Homes Terraced be helpful. 50 Executive Homes
16 Starter Homes Small Family Homes 0 78 65% Strongly Agree 5.03 If you strongly agree or agree, what types of accommodation do you 370 26% Agree think are needed? 914 6% Disagree
1% Strongly Disagree Obviously the needs above need to be considered but many who responded also 5.01 Green Belt areas in the Parish and made reference to the issue mentioned in 5.01 the adjoining Parishes should be preserved above and 5.06 below.
Attention is drawn to the fact that 91% of 5.04 Nearly 88% of those responding had those responding felt that the Green Belt in not experienced any difficulty in purchasing our Parish and adjoining Parishes should be or renting a suitable home in the Parish preserved. although concern was expressed about the lack of Council properties, especially for local 5.02 The Parish needs to accommodate family members, resulting in them having more housing development to be accommodated elsewhere in South In view of the above, it was not surprising that Gloucestershire. a total of nearly 75% disagreed with further housing development.
9 5.06 Nearly 88% of those responding strongly By far the greater concern was regarding agreed or agreed that future development Police response times - 80% - with a larger should be put on hold until the problem of proportion feeling strongly about this. More traffic congestion using junction 17 of the people in total expressed a concern compared M5 have been resolved. Some also pointed with questions for the other two emergency out that present local services could not Services. accommodate any large scale developments (i.e. Doctors, shops, sewerage disposal etc.) 4
30% Strongly Agree Section 6 Emergency Services and 249 425 Community Security 42% Agree
18% Disagree The main purpose of this section was 587
to ascertain the feelings of residents to 0.3% Strongly Disagree Emergency Service response times, public awareness of Policing, their availability and 6.03 I am concerned about the possibility experiences of anti-social behaviour. of long delays in police response times Nearly 72% of those who responded to this question were concerned about the possibility Pilning and Severn Beach of long delays in Ambulance response times, The response to these questions drew, on and a slightly lower figure of nearly 68% had average, a reply from nearly 89% of the total the same concerns over the response times who could have replied. of the Fire Service. The following graphs Regarding Policing in general: illustrate this: Nearly 60% regarded Police coverage to be 18 good to reasonable leaving the slightly smaller Strongly Agree 253 336 percentage who considered it to be poor Agree [6.04]. Disagree 67% were aware of the regular Police Surgery 642 Strongly Disagree held at Severn Beach Post Office. [6.05] 73% would like to see this service extended to 6.01 I am concerned about the possibility of long delays in ambulance response times other parts of the Parish. [6.06] Suggestions regarding the possible timings 10 and locations of the Surgeries appear in the
Strongly Agree separate Comments document. 221 384 Agree With regard to the latter, the district division
Disagree within the Parish in favour of seeing the
613 service extended, works out as follows: Strongly Disagree Severn Beach 69%; Pilning 82%; New Passage 6.02 I am concerned about the possibility of long 80%; Redwick 78%; Northwick being equally delays in fire service response times divided.
10 Nearly 88% of residents responding would like 7.01 How often do you use the following to see the Neighbourhood Watch schemes shops: extended to the rest of the Parish with The Newsagents in Severn Beach was opinions expressed as follows: consistent in the numbers that used it daily, several times a week or occasionally whereas 800 the predominant use of the Post Offices in Pilning and Severn Beach was ‘occasional’. 700 Having said that the following was revealed in 600 answer to this question:
500 Parish Plan 2009 9 1 400 83% Strongly Agree 241
300 17% Agree
200 1165 0.6% Disagree
0.1% Strongly Disagree 100 Redwick New Passage Northwick Severn Beach Pilning Other 0 7.02 It is important that existing 6.07 Extending of Neighbourhood Post Offices remain in the Parish. Watch in Parish
7.03 I would like to see a regular Farmer’s In the area of anti-social behaviour 89% Market disagreed that they felt unsafe walking in Because 89% of those responding requested daylight and 66% in the dark [6.08]. This may this, steps were taken to put this proposal into correspond to the fact that only 17% had been action with the result that the first Market was victims of anti-social behaviour (but this is 239 held on the 21st January 2009 at the Kings’ people!) [6.10] Arms, Redwick Road, Pilning. Although there Only 9% of respondents were aware of the were quite a number of alternative proposals Anti-Social Behaviour Team to whom reports suggested in the Questionnaire comments, it of incidents can be made. [6.11] was decided to choose this venue because of its location between the two main areas of the Section 7 Retail and Other Services Parish. Having operated until June 2009 the In addition to the local shops and services, Market ceased due to a combination of the the Parish has access to quite a number of recession and insufficient trade that made it businesses including those on the Industrial impossible for Traders to continue. It is hoped Estates providing employment and bringing that this proposal might be re-addressed in the finance into the locality. There is a concern future and possibly with a different set-up. It that there could be more awareness and is however, a good example that answers and encouragement for local businesses comments in the Questionnaire can lead
11 to action that could benefit the community as The overwhelming consensus both from the well as helping to keep the Parish Plan in the statistics and comments were that there needs forefront of people’s thinking. to be more in the way of sport and leisure In answer to question 7.06 60% of people activities. would like to see additional sites for small businesses and shops to be made available and the comments showed that the 9.01 Listed below are activities that some residents have suggested should be requirements were very broad. available in the Parish. Do you agree? 7.06 - 76% of those responding thought it would be useful to have a web-based business 1200 directory to find out about local businesses. 1000 Perhaps this could be an extension of the 800
Parish Plan web-page! 600 Snooker facilities A skate and cycle park
400 club Table-tennis Indoor climbing wall 7.07-7.09 - Of the 116 people who work from centre Sports and leisure Junior motorcycling area Junior motorcycling A purpose built youth centre Licensed premises/restaurant
home 25 were interested in meeting with Number of Respondents 200 More activities for young people More Indoor/outdoor bowling green one another and 48 would like to be part of a Subsidised education classes 0 business forum Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Strongly Disagree Pilning and Severn Beach Section 8 Employment
8.01 – The only question posed in this section But opinions were equally divided as to was “Job vacancies should be displayed within whether there were adequate clubs and the Parish.” activities for older residents – [9.02]. 96% of people responding would like to see job The need for more public garden seating areas vacancies displayed publicly was desired by 66% of those responding – Section 9 Sport and Leisure [9.03] It was felt there should be more seating along the Wall especially towards Chittening There are a number of clubs and groups that Wharf and the grass area below the Wall. have served the Parish well over the years and many could accommodate additional [9.04] - Regarding the various Community participation and support. meeting places there was overall satisfaction with the lighting, heating, disabled parking and access from most people although in a general sense there is always room for improvement and the comments and statistics brought this out by those who disagreed. - [9.06] - [Reference to the Binn Wall is the same as the sea wall, the coastal walk, the Severn Way and indicates that part of the wall between New Passage and to the south of Severn Beach]
12 As to whether or not it is either feasible or news of local events. In addition the Parish permissible 66% of those responding thought Council issue a Quarterly report. it a good idea for the Binn Wall to be part of At present we also have the the official cycleway for the use of clubs and Parish Plan website – www. other cyclists. However there were many pilningandsevernbeachparishplan.co.uk – concerns raised in the comments relating to and Severn Beach Neighbourhood Watch safety of pedestrians and cyclists. web-site – www.severnbeach.com/sbnw. There were also a number of people in the It is generally accepted that information within Parish who did not know where the Binn Wall the Parish is quite well communicated with the was. Part of the grass area below the Binn Wall following being the main channels. might also be considered as a boules piste. Parish Plan 2009 1500 There was strong feeling that a new contemporary building was needed as most 1200 present halls were inadequate for wider use. 900 This could be in the form of a leisure club that could include such things as a climbing wall 600 and facilities for various groups and clubs such as fishing club, snooker club, and also Number of Respondents 300 with outside facilities for tennis, football and 0 Notice Free Local Local In View Local Library perhaps even a boules piste. Also provision for Boards Paper Paper Shops Magazine Websites a childrens’ play area and seating for adults. 10.01 Where do you usually get Residents in Pilning also felt the need for a information about events taking place in better Park area. the Parish? Severn Beach residents expressed the need [10.02/03] - Obviously the main source is the for a public house/ restaurant which would be In View magazine and of the 98% who said an added amenity not only for locals but also they regularly received a copy, 96% of those those visitors that like to stroll along the Binn responding said they read it. Wall. However, it was felt by 68% of those The need for more Parking for visitors and responding that things could be improved and locals was also strongly felt. this was the breakdown of suggestions made: Section 10 Information, Communication 41% Parish Newsletter and Local Government 137 6% Email 198 In an attempt to keep residents informed 569 of what is going on in the Parish we have 14% More Notice Boards 192 14% Free Broadsheet a monthly In View Magazine and web-site 83
– www.inview.bravehost.com – there are a 10% Parish Website number of Parish Council and other Notice Boards, and the Thornbury Gazette and 10.05 If strongly agree, or agree, which of Bristol Evening Post Newspapers can carry the following would you prefer?
13 10.06 - A welcome Pack should be issued to Section 11 Environment new residents in the Parish With the unique estuary/foreshore in our area This idea was supported by 78% of those steps will always have to be taken to protect, responding manage and preserve the habitat and balance [10.07-10] - Several questions were addressed the public access and usage. to issues relating to the Parish Council and And with the wider issues throughout the Parish brought the following responses. this is a matter that affects us all. 80% of those responding had never attended With the unknown factor of global warming and a Council meeting and, of those who had its affect, serious consideration should be given attended, the following chart shows the most as to appropriate action to be taken recent meeting attended: As regards general utility services to homes, on the whole these were satisfactory with electricity 150 being an ongoing problem for a little over 23% of residents. [11.01] 120 Similarly, street lighting was considered adequate 90 by the vast majority although the additional comments and district breakdown within the
60 1-2 years ago 3-4 years ago Pilning and Severn Beach Parish showed there were areas where this was of Within the last year Within
30 concern and could be improved [11.02]
Over 5 years ago There was no doubt to 94% of those responding 0 that more should be done to discourage dog- fouling in the Parish [11.04] [10.09] - Opinions were almost equally divided When it comes to the need for serious as regards how well the Parish Council consideration of the use of renewable energy publicise its decisions and activities with the in the Parish not surprisingly most agreed this following result: was necessary and whilst the proposed idea of
27 128 a Severn barrage received more support than Very well Windmill Farms, individual wind turbines and
504 Reasonably solar panels it has to be said that only 54% of those who could have expressed an opinion 474 Badly actually responded. [11.05 and 11.06] There were Very badly also other suggestions in the comments made.
and 59% thought insufficient information is given regarding Planning Applications – [10.10]
14 11.06 If strongly agree or agree, should is an ongoing proposal with much discussion this be: yet to take place but as regards adequate
55% Severn Estuary Barrier vehicular access being provided 86% thought 560 764 34% Windmill Farms this was necessary. [11.11]
343 25% Individual Wind Turbine 73.2% thought more provision for allotments 476 should be made and that was on the basis 40% Solar Panels of 82.4% of people answering this question [11.12] Again it should be noted that the number of Helping out on voluntary clean-up days those who responded to this questions was actually brought a majority of 81% against considerably lower than the 1409 who could this idea and many of the comments indicated Parish Plan 2009 have done so and individual districts within that this should be more the work of the local Parish are obviously affected in different ways! authority for which Council tax payments were [11.07] made. [11.13] Those, who in expressing an opinion agreed, Whilst there were a considerable number of or strongly agreed , that more should be done issues raised that require action to be taken to maintain or control grass verges, overgrown many can be dealt with on a more informal hedges and trees, weeds on pavements, weeds basis rather than in the Action Plans contained in gutters and weeds on the Binn Wall, were later in this document. It should be noted in the greater majority. [11.08] as were those therefore that failure to contain details in this looking to see the planting of more trees – document does not mean that action is not 88%, spring bulbs – 89%, and flower beds – being taken and reference should be made 86%. [11.09] to the Steering Group/Action Group where As regards the condition of roads, pavements, doubts or questions may arise. street lighting and verges [11.10], opinions Section 12 Religious Groups were divided as follows: Apart from the Roman Catholic Church, Good Reasonable Poor Christian denominations are well Roads 342 711 303 represented in the Parish. In an increasingly diverse population other religious groups Pavements 281 667 345 could well be overlooked. It is important Street lighting 427 663 174 that all who require access to buildings can Verges 189 673 416 achieve this. 59% were not in agreement with other religious The comments actually identified some of the groups being catered for [12.01] but others areas and issues more specifically. felt that if existing church buildings, village halls or other community buildings were The proposal to establish a Nature reserve at not available for sharing or renting a central Chittening Warth drew a lot of attention both building should be provided. This could in the answers and comments. Obviously this include a hall set apart for various religious
15 groups to meet as well as other groups for other social purposes. Also there were some of Roman Catholic persuasion who at present have to travel into Bristol and would like to see their needs met locally.[12.02] From practical experience no-one had access problems into any religious buildings through disability and mobility problems [12.03]
Section 13 Parish/Village Twinning community in which they lived and their Initial benefits of Twinning are the widening need for more joint activities. As with the of horizons, promotion of friendships, main Questionnaire the figures included in particularly for the younger generation, the statistics show a variance because not all exchange visits by pupils and visits between those who responded necessarily completed clubs and interest groups, and facilitating each question. travel by those who may not normally be Also as with the main Questionnaire the able to afford it. There are many long-term comments are far too extensive to include benefits too. Pilning and Severn Beach in this Plan but have been taken into
800 consideration in the formulation of the Action
700 Plans and will need to be re-considered afresh
600 by those who act upon the Plan.
500 Agree 72 males and 63 females responded and these
400 were almost equally divided in age categories
300 as follows: 52 in the age range 7-11; 37 in the
200 age range 12-14; 43 in the age range 15-17. Stronlgy agree Stronlgy Disagree 100 disagree Strongly Question 2 – How do you travel to:
0 Car Bus Walk Cycle 13.01 Steps should be taken to find out School 43 64 25 7 more information regarding twinning with Visit Friends 70 7 72 27 another E.U. Estuary Parish or Village Clubs/Sports 96 9 14 3 Other Activities 90 17 14 11 The Youth Section (Under 18s) As part of the preparation of the Parish Plan Question 3:1 – Should more be done to keep and in addition to the adult Questionnaire your area green? that went to every household, we undertook 66% obviously have a very keen interest in a Youth Questionnaire and this section relates doing more to keep the Parish ‘green and to those results. clean’ and not only should their comments be Two things were clear from the 139 who seriously considered but opportunities should responded and that was their interest in the be taken to encourage their involvement.
16 Question 3:2 – What do you like about the It is gratifying to read of the positive ‘likes’ area in which you live? of living in the area whilst at the same time [A sample of the comments] seeing there are genuine concerns, transport, The views/less pollution. It is reasonably safe, lack of things to do and fear of bullying and a nice bike ride along the sea wall and good vandalism being the main ones. Many of the views. Peace and tranquillity. Access to Cribbs young people share the same concerns as causeway+ motorways. Good community the adults. Again this could pave the way to atmosphere. My friends live here. I like the seeing possibilities of encouraging more joint park. The parks and sea wall. Everyone knows participation between the age groups. each other. Quite close to shops. Not too busy Question 4:1 – Do you feel safe in your area
roads. Quiet. Peaceful and good scenery. Nice in daylight and darkness hours? Parish Plan 2009 house and school and it is a nice quiet place It was encouraging to see that most felt safe to live. Looking onto country side. I like the in daylight hours but 60% were not so sure walks and seeing the wildlife e.g. Birds and during hours of darkness. rabbits. Easy access to town by train. It’s green Question 4:3 – Have you been the victim of lots of trees. Local cubs and scouts, the sea anti-social behaviour? wall, two big play areas. The Annual carnival. Fortunately only a minority have suffered anti- Responses: social behaviour. 65 - Severn Beach; 30 - Pilning; 12 - Redwick; 9 - Northwick; 0 - New Passage. Question 4:4 – Are you aware of the Anti- social Behaviour Team to whom reports of Question 3:3 – What do you dislike about the incidents can be made? area in which you live? 11% were aware of the Anti-social Behaviour [Sample of comments] Team. Nothing for young people to do. Transport is not very reliable. Not feeling I could walk Notwithstanding the figures above there is to relatives in evenings. A few racist people. a perceived fear of bullying and vandalism Its messy and naughty boys walking down as highlighted in the comments and some the street. Sound of motor way. Dog poo and thought and action should be given to this. gum on the paths. Not much to do. Lack of Question 4:5 – Do you feel isolated? teenage activities. People littering. Too many 22 said they did. people drinking then causing trouble in the streets. Too much litter dog mess in the lanes, Question 4:6 – Are you a carer for an adult? on the pavement and probably including 3 identified themselves as being such a carer. councillors do nothing about it. Bushes too Question 5:1 – What method(s) of overgrown. No public access to villages such communication of Parish news and events as Tockington/ Alveston etc. Would like to see would you prefer to be used for all young a leisure centre, trampoline and football pitch. people? Responses. 13% would prefer to see use of the internet 61. Severn Beach; 10 - Redwick; 28 - Pilning; 7 - with 28% wanting to see a dedicated website. Northwick; 0 - New Passage.
17 In these days of IT and modern technology Question 7:2 - Obviously this revealed some of there was still a lot of interest in a Youth the questions that we did not ask and shows News/Newsletter [nearly 59%]. that many of the young people are thoughtful There were a substantial percentage of those and concerned and because the Parish Plan is who responded who expressed a willingness an ongoing procedure we might well have to to help produce or maintain each of these come back to these unanswered questions in methods. the future. Question 6.1 - Are there activities you would So, if we are to see the lives of the young people like to do but are not able to do because of enriched and issues addressed we need to seek infrequent public transport? together to encourage the existing groups and 44 replied ‘Yes’ and 68 ‘No’. activities whilst looking for ways to improve They were asked to specify what activities and and create others. Time, cost and personnel are surprisingly, these were not so wide ranging as going to be needed and everyone in the Parish one might expect and swimming was by far the needs to give this careful consideration. most specified. As far as the Steering Group are concerned The overwhelming number of venues for we shall be doing everything we can to activities were at Thornbury or Henbury. encourage the Parish and County Council to
Pilning and Severn Beach With a desire for indoor and outdoor activities help, along with any voluntary groups in the the figures were as follows: area. Wherever possible we will be looking for Youth Football 61 funding to aid the improvements but for the Horse Riding 47 personnel we need Parishioners to respond Youth Rugby 33 positively. Netball 38 Because the Youth Questionnaire echoed a Cricket 33 number of concerns and wishes that the Adults American Football 13 raised in the main Questionnaire the above Pool 76 statistical replies and submitted comments Film Club 32 have been taken into consideration in the Music Band 36 development of appropriate Action Plans. Drama 46 It is considered important to incorporate Table Tennis 48 representatives for this age group onto the Youth Club 52 proposed Parish Plan Action Group. Art 47 Swap Shop 41 Café 45 Board Games 22 Photography 23
18 THE ACTION PLANS
The Parish Plan Action Group will oversee SBRG Severn Beach Regeneration the implementation of the following Action Group Plans in cooperation with those groups and SBS Severn Beach School individuals listed in the ‘Potential Partners’ SGC South Gloucestershire Council column of the appropriate tables in each SSCG Safer & Stronger Community Section and such other groups and individuals Group as may become necessary. Where no potential SSG Safer South Gloucestershire partners are mentioned the Parish Plan Action team at South Gloucestershire Group will seek to find these during the Council process of implementation. StPS St Peter’s School VG Volunteer Group The following list of abbreviations are used as Parish Plan 2009 references in the Action Plans: WASP Wheels at St Peters WCBC Wessex Connect Bus Company AG Age Concern ASB Anti Social Behaviour References to ‘short’, ‘medium’ and ‘long’ BCC Bristol City Council terms goals in the following Action Plans will CG Carers’ Group generally be interpreted to mean approximate DDP Developers Distribution Park periods as follows: DPT Distribution Park Tenants Short term one to two years EA Environment Agency Medium term three to four years FB First Bus Company Long term five years or more FGW First Great Western As mentioned elsewhere all aspects of the FTVT Four Towns Vale Transport Parish Plan will be kept under constant review FoSBSR Friends of Severn Beach but the goals set will hopefully aid a realistic Suburban Railway pursuit and completion of the individual GWAS Great Western Ambulance Objectives. Service HA Highways Authority IV In View LINk Local Involvement Network for South Gloucestershire LSIDB Lower Severn Internal Drainage Board MH Merlin Housing NHW Neighbourhood Watch PALS Patient Advice & Liaison Service PC Parish Council PCT Primary Care Trust PPAG Parish Plan Action Group PS Pilning Surgery PSSG Pilning Surgery Support Group
19 The Action Plans
Transport and Highways
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Public Transport Improvements To achieve an Bus services SGC, Short term improvement in To engage with appropriate Partners to explore WCBC, the availability and the provision of: FTVT. reliability of the public t evening buses between Cribbs Causeway and transport system to the Parish and from the Parish t Connections for Residents in other parts of This should be considered in conjunction with the including continual the Parish to the trains at Severn Beach. existing bus service improvement to the t More information on bus stop boards This could be a simplified Map of connections latest services regarding onward journeys at the Mall bus available at The Mall or textual information station. 20 t Phone number displayed on information board for precise up to date bus info. t more bus shelters. SGC, Medium t electronic information boards . WCBC, term t facilities for through booking* *Integrated fares between bus companies t Full integration of transport and fares in SGC, Long term Greater Bristol area. WCBC, FB FTVT. FGW, FoSBSR Train services Contact appropriate Partners to: t restore hourly service to and from Severn SGC, FGW, Short term Beach by strengthening service with buses to FoSBSR, Avonmouth as per existing Saturday Service WCBC t ensure better onward connections at Bristol Because of the current 40 minute service from Temple Meads to London and Birmingham. Avonmouth connections are generally more t produce better information on ticket convenient availability between First GW and First Bus t provide connection at Severn Beach to provide service to Pilning and, where possible, other areas within the Parish. Continue consultation with appropriate Partners SGC, FGW, Medium to provide: FoSBSR, term t full hourly rail service* WCBC *Monday to Saturday t An adequate Sunday service t Parking at Severn Beach for rail passengers* *This should be considered in any Planning t Links to Avonmouth Park and Ride. Application relating to the land adjoining Severn Beach Station Continue consultation with appropriate Partners SGC, FGW, Long term to provide: FoSBSR, t full integration of services and fares in the WCBC Greater Bristol Area. t Fast hourly service to Patchway, Filton and Bristol Temple Meads, South Wales from Pilning Park and Ride.
Highway Concerns [Note: Items marked * should be read in conjunction with parallel matters in the Environment Section] To seek a more efficient Approach SGC to undertake a new survey of traffic SGC, SSG Short term Noise, pavements and verges being destroyed enforcement of speed volume, speed and overall disruption to the local and rubbish etc. and other factors ought to be restrictions, traffic environment. included 21 volume and overall disruption of the environment within the Parish Implement Councils findings SGC, SSG, Medium Should include new footpath on A403 between PC term Redwick and Distribution Park turning and noise barriers on A403 and motorways where required. The Action Plans
Transport and Highways
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner To see a re-modelled Support dialogue with all appropriate parties to Medium junction with M5 at move this proposal forward and schedule the term Cribbs Causeway. work To see the development Support dialogue with all appropriate parties to Long term of a new motorway move this proposal forward and schedule the interchange at Hallen on work M49.
Restriction of Heavy Vehicles To seek enforcement of [Note: suggested action to be decided when result SGC, SSG, Medium This could be an increasing problem the restriction on heavy of Survey referred to above is known] DDP, DPT term particularly if more industrial development 22 vehicles using the Parish is undertaken. Developers and Tenants of the Roads Distribution Park will need to have agreed to cooperate with Council findings.
Upkeep of Pavements, Roads and Verges To seek ways of [Note: suggested action to be decided when result SGC, PC Medium increasing the reliability of Survey referred to above is known] term for maintenance, provision and upkeep of pavements, roads and verges To seek to have proper SGC Short term provision of lay-bys to replace those created by erosion of grass verges
Street Lighting [Refer to Environment Section] Education
Childcare/Activities for Younger Children To make known the Contact existing groups and childminders to Existing Short term Action should be considered to encourage, fund, wide range of childcare ascertain availability of places and exactly what Groups and and publicise the excellent groups that already and activities within provision they offer, when it is available and to individuals exist. the whole Parish whom particularly bearing in mind the needs of working parents Make this information available to Parishioners IV; Short term via Parish Magazine, local websites and local shops Setting up additional Contact schools to ascertain need and what Medium Breakfast clubs provisions are already available term Undertake feasibility study to consider expansion Medium of existing availability and introduction of any new term required services 23 Keeping School-Aged Children ‘Off the Streets’ [Objectives are set out in the Youth Action Plan]
Adult Requirements To seek to make IT/ Contact various service providers Short term Computer courses Locate suitable venues available and accessible Set up courses to as many residents as possible The Action Plans
Health, Social Services and Older People
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Carers To extend and Compile list of those Carers who wish to be Short term Consideration should be given for those Carers strengthen the support recognised as such. unable to find outside support through existing given to Carers within groups because they cannot leave those for the Parish whom they care To find ways of Open consultations with Carers and prospective CG; PS; AC; Medium No thought to increasing elderly population encouraging and Partners to move towards achieving Objective SGC; VG term (Salthouse Farm) re Medical Services. supporting those with Only Faith House, Severn Beach is available for long-term illnesses and limited disabled and elderly care disabilities, their carers, families and dependents 24 Disabled To ascertain extent of To arrange a comprehensive survey within the Short term Possible funding opportunities should be services available and Parish of services, general accessibility for explored whilst this survey is being undertaken. to make these known to disabled people, disabled parking, (specifically appropriate residents including all those mentioned in the Objectives column) safety, leisure and pleasure pursuits with recommendations for improvement
To improve access to the Binn Wall
To explore the provision of disabled parking specifically designated for use of the public toilet in Severn Beach To seek the Hold an open forum to share recommendations Medium It is proposed that potential partners and other implementation and establish the way forward term interested parties are designated at the open of the Survey forum to follow through the recommendations recommendations Accommodation [Note: This is covered more specifically in Section 5 – Housing]
Accessing National Health and Other Medical Services To seek to expand the To encourage Pilning Surgery to move towards PS; PCT; Short/ Some needs specified were: Maternity Hospital, capability of Pilning meeting the Objective and expressed needs, and PSSG; medium Dentist, Chiropodist, Optician, Physiotherapist, Surgery to maintain and to explore ways in which additional services term Chemist increase services to the might be provided within the Parish Parishioners To highlight and To include this information in the Welcome Short term publicise services Pack proposed in Section 10 - Information, available in relatively Communication and Local Government close proximity to the Parish and the viable transport possibilities available 25 The Action Plans
Housing
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Green Belt To take steps to resist Inform the Councils and EA of the overwhelming PC; SGC; Short term As the PC approved this Plan they should note any encroachments into views of those responding so that they might be EA the views expressed and resolve accordingly the Green belt areas in strengthened in their resolve to prevent further the Parish adverse development To urge planners locally and nationally to have SGC Short term regard to the views of the people To seek support of local Member of Parliament to Local M.P. Short term meet this objective
Sheltered Accommodation 26 To endeavour to To ask local Councils to see if there is any suitable PC; SGC; Short term provide suitable local land in the Parish for a small development of accommodation for Sheltered accommodation both for the elderly and those who do not wish the disabled, bearing in mind the views expressed to go to another part of under ‘Green Belt’ above the County or beyond
Preserving the Flood Plain To ensure preservation Petition Parliament to see if the terms of the LSIDB; EA; Short term of the flood plain 1957 Agreement could be altered so that the PC; SGC Lower Severn Internal Drainage Board, the Environmental Agency, the Parish Council and planners from South Gloucestershire Council all have input before any building is started To seek the strengthening of Planning laws that Long term would prevent any further major development on the flood plain Needed Housing To establish the To seek to have a survey conducted of present SGC; Short term Notwithstanding proposals to ensure essential needs and required future housing within the Parish preservation of the flood plain, limited in-filling might be able to fulfil some of the needs for additional housing together with use of existing empty accommodation or possible conversions To ascertain if any land is available for small SGC; Medium development for local families term To involve Merlin Housing to look at all the local MH; Medium Any Survey should look at questions of Public housing still under their control term Transport, and existing general infrastructures and services to ascertain that these are able to cope with present demands.
Junction 17 of the M5 and Other Affected Roads To halt all new To request the Highway Authority look urgently HA; Short term All new developments that involve the use of developments until at the congestion problems of Junction 17 the B4055/B4056, whether within the Parish or congestion issues have particularly with regard to the affect on adjoining Parish, needs to be halted. Developers been addressed and commuters from and to the Parish must invest in sorting out problems with the HA dealt with before continuing with any development. 27 The Action Plans
Emergency Services and Community Security
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Emergency Response Times Highlight concerns on Pass data from Parish Plan to relevant agencies, SSCG, LINk, Short term Bearing in mind the recent changes to the ambulance response including LINk and SSCG PALS management of ambulance services and the times to relevant fact that one of the PCT’s top priorities is for agencies Encourage people to pass any complaints improvement, complaints should be made to about ambulance services to LINk or to PALS by the GWAS or to PALS. promoting these services in the IV Also, the Local Involvement Network (LINk) for South Gloucestershire is currently involved in the review of services provided by Great Western Ambulance Services. The LINk will be very important in having a say in how local 28 ambulance services are delivered. It may be that other groups could also get involved, for example, existing patients groups could be asked to gather further information or evidence of problems experienced with ambulances. Highlight concerns on Pass data from Parish Plan to the SSCG to liaise SSCG, Fire Medium The SSCG includes members from the Police & Fire Service with its partners and highlight concerns Service, term Emergency Services and the representatives response times to Police from the different agencies (e.g. fire and police) relevant agencies could be asked to take responsibility for feeding back the concerns.
Police Visibility and Service Improve the Raise the profile of the SSCG by putting articles in SSCG, Short term The local neighbourhood police team are relationship and two- the IV (e.g. what it is, what it does and who it is NHW, supporting the SSCG as their main mechanism way communications for). Police of engaging with the community – the best way between the community forward may be to encourage use of SSCG. Also and the police Ask local Neighbourhood Watch groups to Short term it may need the SSCG to look at alternative promote SSCG to their members. ways of reaching out to the community (i.e. in addition to the existing meetings) Encourage more people to use the SSCG to Short term feedback on issues and highlight concerns.
Increase the Make requests to police for more foot patrols by Police, Short term Situations have developed since the opportunities for people PCSOs SSCG Questionnaire and will be kept under review to have direct access to 29 the local police Make request to SSCG to review and investigate the best ways of involving the local community The Action Plans
Emergency Services and Community Security
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Police Surgery Improve the Discuss with local police the possibility of Police, Short/ This too has been addressed through SSCG and accessibility of Police reviewing the timing of the surgeries (to include SSCG Medium will be kept under review surgeries to give more afternoon and evening) and of extending the term people the opportunity current service to include other locations to attend Publicise police surgeries in parish magazine and on local websites (e.g. IV, NHW, Parish Plan and PC websites)
Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) 30 To try and gather Contact local NHW administrator (Avon & Existing Short term Existing NHW coordinators and/or members volunteers to set up Somerset Police) for support NHW may help to draft an article for IV to highlight and run NHW schemes members, some of their recent work and personal stories in areas of the Parish Police about why they think that NHW is good and where they do not exist Raise awareness of benefits of NHW Short term what it actually means in terms of what they do
Raise profile of existing Neighbourhood Watch Short term web-site
Ask for NHW volunteers through IV Short term Groups can be established to ‘watch over’ smaller designated areas if it is not possible to Identify interested individuals and arrange an Short term effectively oversee larger geographical areas initial meeting ASB Team Increase awareness and Make parishioners aware of the ASB team at SGC ASB team Short term The ASB Team are happy to promote understanding of the and the services that they provide by putting an SSCG, IV their services, to talk at events and give ASB team article in IV presentations to local groups. They are keen to make links with the community.
Ask local groups if they would be interested in a Short term presentation from the ASB team
Encourage reporting of ASB Short term 31 The Action Plans
Retail and Other Services
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Retail and Other Services To adequately inform Compile a list of retail and other services Short term Residents of what including local businesses and independent local retail outlets and service suppliers and include in Welcome services are currently Pack referred to in Section 10 - Information, available Communication and Local Government
Range of Retail Items Available To raise awareness Compile a list from Questionnaire and comments Local Short term See separate compiled list of Comments for full amongst retail outlets and make available to Retailers retailers details of items required of additional items and 32 services mentioned by Residents
Additional Services To seek provision of To prepare a detailed analysis of services Short term These included pharmacy, Dentist, Opticians, additional services requested and undertake a feasibility study Chiropodist, Public house/bistro/cafe amongst requested in others. See separate compiled list of Comments Questionnaire for full details Contact local Surgery in connection with any PS; SGC; Short term services that they might be able to provide and ensure planners are aware of required services when considering planning applications Employment
Job Vacancies To see adequate Contact local Job Centres to ask them to consider Job Short term advertising within the advertising job vacancies locally Centres Parish of general Job vacancies Ask local Post Offices if they are prepared to Local Post Short term provide advertising space for this purpose Offices
Encourage local Write to all local businesses asking them to All local Short term businesses to advertise advertise vacancies locally and give preference to businesses vacancies locally local employees where possible
Local Job Shop To see a regular Job Contact Job Centres to ascertain if they are Job Short term shop set up advertising prepared to set up and run regular Job Shops Centres Job vacancies locally Find suitable location Short term This could possibly be a ‘shop-share’ 33 The Action Plans
Sport and Leisure
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Combined Building To provide a purpose To engage in consultation with the PC, SGC and PC, SGC Long term Any long term attainment of this Objective will built recreation hall that other appropriate Departments be dependent on the result of the consultations could meet the various and would need to be reviewed at that time expressed needs of the Parish as highlighted in this Plan
Park and Play Areas To encourage support To pursue ways of obtaining funding from Short term Initial action would be undertaken by PPAG until for the ongoing individuals, groups, businesses and outside partnerships can be established 34 maintenance and agencies improvement of existing facilities
To identify possible Short term Initial action would be undertaken by PPAG and areas that could be proposals more clearly defined used for the extension of facilities within the Parish or nearby Public House/Restaurant in Severn Beach To ensure that To liaise with PC, SGC and other appropriate PC, SGC Short term The PPAG would need to have a ‘watching brief’ consideration is given departments to record the expressed needs of in this situation for the provision of the residents and the desire to see the provision these premises in the of additional services including these premises in event of any major the event of any major development taking place development in Severn Beach
To pursue the possibility To encourage active participation by Parishioners of the provision of such in any major development consultations premises
Extra Seating To seek to provide SBRG Medium Since the Questionnaire this is already being additional seating along term undertaken by the SBRG stretches of the Binn Wall and the grassed area below the Wall 35 Cycle Path Along Binn Wall To resolve the question Contact the EA, SGC, PC and other interested EA, SGC,PC Short term Because of the ongoing confusion and of the provision of a bodies to establish understanding of present legal controversy, as well as expressed desires the cycle way for public use position and possible changes intention is to resolve and advise residents and visitors The Action Plans
Information, Communication and Local Government
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Parish Information To improve the A dedicated PC Member be nominated to provide PC/IV Short term Another member of the Council should be communication of the copy for the IV each month. nominated to stand in for holidays or when Parish Council actions illness occurs. and proposals
To ensure that dates of A dedicated PC Member be nominated to provide PC/IV Short term Some months the IV does not print the date of the forthcoming Parish copy for the IV each month. the Parish Council Meeting. When a vacancy Council meetings are for a Council member arises Advertise the Post. published in the IV 36
Parish Council Notice PC to obtain quotes for obtaining and erecting PC Medium There may be those in the Parish who are able Boards to be replaced Notice Boards term to construct and instal Notice Boards who might in Northwick and New want to volunteer for this work. Passage
To provide a periodic To establish a working group who would PC Short term The group would liaise with PC, leaders Parish Newsletter or undertake investigation into the viability and of various Parish Groups, Schools. Village broadsheet sustainability of this proposal Halls, Church Groups, shops and businesses. Northavon Gazette and any others who might be able to assist. This should increase interest in local matters. Encourage people to have more participation in Parish activities Welcome Packs To provide a welcome Compile Information Sheet details of (inter alia) PC Medium pack to all residents Meetings ,Groups, Clubs Adults and Children term in the area and to new Groups, Schools, Public Houses, Church Services, residents arriving Doctors, and leaflets of Bus and Train Times and Park and Ride. A brief History of the Parish, and who their PC Members are. 37 The Action Plans
Environment
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Electricity Supply To seek improvements To contact relevant supply providers asking them PC; Utility Short term to the Electricity supply to investigate and/or repair/renew any problems companies to prevent the many they find that could explain the surges and power cuts and surges frequent power cuts
Street Lighting To obtain improvement To conduct a Parish review of the need for PC; SGC; Short term Consideration should also be given to the views to inadequate street improved street-lighting within the Parish and of local residents even if additional lighting lighting in the Parish the safety of pedestrians in the local area where might be considered advantageous and the need 38 lighting or pavements are insufficient. for a general consensus of agreement
Implement findings of Review SGC; Short term There was a considerable amount in Comments requesting attention should be paid to the junction of A403 and Ableton Lane, the To encourage Residents To publicise the telephone number for reporting IV, local Short term pathways between houses, Northwick Road, to regularly report ‘dead’ lights retail Shaft Road and Marsh Common Road ‘dead’ lights outlets Since the Questionnaire decisions are being made about switching off a growing number of To request SGC repair ‘dead’ lights more quickly, SGC Short term lights and the Parish Review should consider particularly during the Winter season this and how Parishioners are affected Dog Fouling To seek to minimise the To request more visits from the Dog warden PC; Short term extent of dog fouling in and to seek publicity for amount of offending the Parish discovered
To seek that Doggie bags are available in local PC; Local Short term retail outlets retail outlets; To see the erection of more signs Short term These could also include reference to the need to clean up after horse fouling
Broadband Access To seek improvement To make representations to British Telecom for BT Short term Since the Questionnaire Government proposals to the efficiency and the improvement of standards at Pilning Exchange have been put forward and we need to relate availability of access to accommodate higher broadband speeds these to Parish needs
Renewable Energy To explore and To encourage public participation in this process PC; SGC; Short term Since the Questionnaire proposals for the
39 support all forms of by encouraging public meetings, publicity and local MP; Severn River Barrage have been put forward consultations into the updates on proposals EA; along with alternative proposals provision of renewable energy To make representations to the Government of the Short term views of Parishioners
Noise Pollution To consolidate To approach specific groups mentioned in the Short term Noise barriers on the A403 and noise reducing understanding of Questionnaire to make them aware of peoples’ tarmac for motorway noise were mentioned in various causes and concerns. Questionnaire comments encourage positive steps to reducing this where To encourage neighbour awareness of some PC; EA Short term possible activities that may be offensive
To publicise courses of action available to PC; IV Short term Parishioners The Action Plans
Environment
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Maintenance and Control of Verges, Hedges, Trees and Weeds To increase the planting To encourage response to the expressed desires PC; SGC; Short term Safety issues concerning uncut roadside verges of various trees and of Parishioners need to be a priority hedgerows in new areas and to replace To explore ways for community involvement, PC; SBS; St Short term those removed through including schools, to undertake various projects PS; development within the Parish
To encourage a local To set up communication channels with SGC; EA; Short term group or groups to appropriate authorities to rectify as necessary PC; 40 be responsible for reporting uncontrolled and unsightly weeds etc.
Roads and Pavements To encourage proper To set up a rolling programme of repairs and SGC Short term The setting up will be short term but obviously repair and maintenance maintenance throughout the Parish the programme will be a long term proposal
To seek provision of To consolidate and update views of Parishioners PC; SGC Short term additional pavements
To encourage implementation of agreed PC; SGC Medium/ improvement scheme Long term
Wildlife To encourage To enlist the help of existing groups, schools and Short/Long This can be more clearly defined when establishment of individuals to identify, establish and maintain term appropriate working group can be established designated areas to suitable areas attract wildlife
To provide Bat and To enlist the help of existing groups, schools and Short term This can be more clearly defined when Owl boxes in suitable individuals to help in this area appropriate working group can be established positions within the Parish Nature Reserve at Chittening Warth To support and To make known the comments and responses in SGC Short term PPAG would need to maintain a ‘watching brief’ encourage the the Questionnaire to appropriate authorities regarding this establishment of this Reserve To encourage support for any developing proposals
Allotments To seek the provision of To support and encourage the PC to provide these PC Short term more allotments
General Parish Tidiness To maintain a high To ask SGC to organise more clean-ups of the SGC Short term standard of tidiness WHOLE Parish within the Parish To encourage and extend the support of existing Short term
41 clean-up groups
To encourage other groups and/or individuals to Short term be part of an ongoing programme The Action Plans
Religious Groups
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Central Meeting Place In the event of major To pursue this suggestion in conjunction with any Long term If each religious group had access to any development within the proposed development, including leisure facilities communal building with a cupboard and Parish to make provision to incorporate various expressed needs. perhaps allocated wall space for articles of faith for various religious the room or rooms could then be used by others groups to share in the with minimal interruption or inconvenience. common facilities 42 Twinning
Twinning or Partnership To establish twinning or To form a working group to pursue the objective. Other Medium It would seem logical to seek a twin with some partnership with those groups or term similarities, perhaps in the sense of being next in a suitable location To find out from local groups, organisations organisa- to an estuary, or being of a similar population, and schools what existing links already exist tions and or on the edge of a major conurbation, including and whether they provide suitable locations for volunteers Eastern European Countries. twinning or partnership.
To liaise with other villages in the area who already have twinning or partnership schemes operating to enlist their help and guidance.
To arrange a public consultation to agree the final recommendations of various short-listed locations
To establish twinning or partnership with a suitable location 43 The Action Plans
Youth Action Plan
Suggested Objective Suggested Action Potential Timescale Notes Partner
Central Meeting Place To support and Gather information of clubs and activities Short term Whilst issues raised in the Youth Questionnaire encourage the existing available and make known this information have in the main been incorporated in previous work with young people through local outlets Action Plans it is important that the youth can and proposals now own and act upon some of these issues in ways under consideration they decide
44 To seek to establish Arrange a public meeting especially aimed at PC; SGC; Short term Many of the existing groups and individuals a Youth Council or a young people to pursue the objective working with young people would be invited more integrated youth to participate in these objectives. These would participation in existing become more specific as the suggested courses decision making groups of action are pursued and organisations
To seek to extend the To draw up a programme of intent and pursue PC; SGC; Short term facilities available avenues of funding including out of school activities
Keeping school-aged To liaise with voluntary and statutory agencies to PC; SGC; Short term children ‘off the streets’ establish extent of problem and needs
To compile a plan of action Short term ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We would have preferred to have been able to mention everyone who has helped in whatever way in the preparation of this Parish Plan and the various activities over the past couple of years but space does not permit this. As a Steering Group we are so grateful because we could not have done this alone.
That being said, we need to specifically mention a few and trust that those not mentioned will understand.
We would like to thank the members of the Parish Council, first of all for entrusting us with the task of preparing the Parish Plan and then for their support along the way. They have shown interest and have asked for updates at each of the regular Council meetings as well as some members assisting on the Steering Group itself. Special appreciation to Jeff Rawlinson (Clerk) who, in addition to Council meetings, has overseen the financial side and was so helpful in the proof reading of the Plan.
To Sue and Ken as proprietors of the Kings’ Arms who have allowed us to hold our Steering Group meetings there since the beginning and for being prepared to help in connection with the siting of the Farmers’ Market and general support.
Paul Bowerman has worked in the background by creating the Parish Plan website and updating this as and when advised and we are grateful for that facility being available to all.
Andrew Talbot of Aqueous UK limited gave invaluable help in the preparation and printing of the Parish Plan Questionnaire, the compiling of the statistical information, and the layout and final printing of this Parish Plan and the accompanying Action Plans that are for general distribution throughout the Parish. His experience and expertise assisted greatly and it is so encouraging to have been able to find such a combination of professionalism and personal attention.
Various personnel from Community Action have helped us and will continue to do so as we, and others, begin to implement the Action Plans.
Mike Edwards supplied the historical photographs and we thank him and Rod Lees for the time spent in compiling these in date order so far as could be ascertained.
So thank you to each and every one, and we trust that we will be able to see improvements in the coming months and years as we work together to improve our community.
The Steering Group.
45 Design and print by Aqueous UK Ltd · 01934 524663 · www.aqpu.co.uk