Ufford Ufford 2020 Parish Plan

'Shaping the future of Ufford'

Final Report

January 2009 Contents

Subject Page no

The plan process at Ufford 1

Introduction 2

Situation and History 3

Population 4 The questionnaire Population Structure Population forecasts Why people live in Ufford The Conservation Area

Employment and Businesses 5 The workforce Employers

Housing 6 Key Service Centre or Local Service Centre? Village envelope Housing requirements

Transport 7 Ufford’s roads The Environment (see also pp 5-6) 8 The natural environment Maintaining the environment

The Community 9 Village facilities Events Societies St Mary’s Church Local Government – Parish Council Crime

Facilities 12 Education Emergency services Utilities Health services Retail services

Youth Section 14 Youth club Sporting activities Clubs Schools, Transport Communication, Safety Youth Council Employment, Environment

Key Issues for Consideration 16 The Steering group and Parish Council Contact Details 18 Consultation Events 19

Map of Ufford 20

Appendix: Questionnaire results Preface - The Plan Process at Ufford

The decision to produce a Parish Plan was adapted to the format required by supported by 85% of Ufford`s population in a Acre. referendum held in February 2003. However, The questionnaire contained 75 questions it was not until Autumn 2006 that a steering and was distributed to the 401 properties on group was formed to implement this the electoral roll in September 2007. decision. Adjusting for empty properties 82% of these The group`s first major task was to engage were completed and returned. A youth with the village population in order to questionnaire was also distributed. The ascertain priorities, opinions and what completed documents were immediately sent questions should be included in the to Suffolk Acre for computer analysis and questionnaire which would provide the returned a couple of months later. The necessary information. A number of societies committee was instructed on how best to were addressed, but the major engagement analyse the results which were contained in took place at “The Big Event”, which was the computer program. A painstaking widely advertised and was held at the analysis ensued and each individual prestigious Ufford Park Hotel on 25th March questionnaire was studied in order to take 2007. account of comments made by contributors.

The “Big Event” was attended by over 200 A 12-page summary of the Parish Plan was local residents who had the opportunity to prepared and appeared as a supplement in express their views on the numerous display the Ufford Punch in July 2008. This was boards which were arranged by subject immediately followed by 3 consultation matter. In addition 15 of the village`s meetings which exhibited questionnaire societies exhibited their activities and results and gave villagers the opportunity to recruited new members. Even at this early raise any further issues. In the event very stage it became clear that the preservation of few fresh points were made and the Ufford`s rural character was a main priority document formed the nucleus of that which with villagers. follows herein. Key action points were then finalised and added to the plan in November Following the analysis of the results of the and December. A draft copy was presented engagement the Steering Group took the to the Parish Council who agreed to adopt it decision to join the pilot scheme set up by at their meeting on January 2009. Suffolk Acre in order to minimise costs. The results of our engagement were then

Photo: The Parish Council stand and launch of the Ufford website at the Big Event. Page 1 Introduction to the Ufford Parish Plan

This Parish Plan differs is. When given the choice from many others. Its between a Key or Local successful implementation Service Centre over 3/4 will cost the public purse wanted the latter. The very little. Failure will cost priority of our residents is the residents of Ufford the quality of their life. dearly, and for ever. Economic issues seem

Ufford is an attractive, less important. Residents idyllic place in which to fear that the great live. It already has what expansion to be imposed many other villages seek: on Suffolk by our proximity to the politicians will also affect countryside, well-spaced Ufford. There is a danger housing, some historic that it will eliminate the plan is to preserve the buildings, good community very virtues that attract character of Ufford, and people to the village. when change is necessary, spirit in its 15 societies, and good pubs. But at the During the course of this to adapt gently and same time it enjoys plan’s preparation the sympathetically to our convenient access to retail economy has swung ‘from current environment. and employment centres. boom to bust’. For Ufford a John Mann, Chairman - 82% of the village took the moderation of development ambitions Parish Plan Steering trouble to answer the 75 Group questions contained in our born in a period of questionnaire. Two thirds unsustainable expansion of these said they wanted would probably be to maintain the village as it welcomed. The main action proposed by this

View of the water meadows from Spring Lane

Page 2 Situation and history

Ufford is situated about 2 miles north east of Woodbridge, Suffolk. (GR 295525) The boundary is irregular but in broad terms is boarded to the east by the River Deben and to the west by the A12 to road.

It will be seen from the map that within the boundary the village envelope is long and narrow. Local residents sometimes divide this into Upper and Lower Ufford, although there is no specific boundary. There are two satellites to the main nucleus: Parklands and part of the Melton Park estate. The latter stands either side of the boundary of Ufford and Melton (see below). Beyond this there are farm houses which also fall within the Hackeries Lane - the 600 year old parish boundary now under review parish.

(note District Council There is evidence of early church have proposed a boundary review building at the Parish Church, St Mary`s between Melton and Ufford within Melton of the Assumption. The structure was Park. Ufford Parish Council object to this largely rebuilt towards the end of the 14th on the grounds of cost and potential loss century and is Grade 1 listed The interior of Ufford`s heritage. From the Parish was fortunate to have escaped some of Plan standpoint our questionnaire did not the activities of the iconoclasts and is raise the question of boundaries but noted for its fine carving and magnificent about 6 households (10% of the houses font cover. in Melton Park, Ufford) complained about the current boundary either in writing or A few properties date from the 15th by telephone) century, but as in most villages there has been substantial development in the last Ufford`s roots are well established. The 50 years or so. Nevertheless, housing village was probably founded in the density is very low and this, together with Anglian immigration of the 6th century. It the conservation areas and interface with is thought that the name is derived from the surrounding countryside give the that of the Wuffa dynasty, who lived in village a rural charm which is the main the area and ruled the greater part of reason why its residents have chosen to eastern . In Mediaeval times it live in it. was this village which gave its name to the Earls of Suffolk.

Front page photo: J Colles Photo of Ufford Park: donated Photo of Crown Nurseries: donated Ufford village sign: P Marr All other photos: H Heelis

Page 3 Population Age profile of respondents

240 250 The questionnaire 200 The contents of the questionnaire 121 were derived from a series of 150 well-attended consultation events 100 75 held in the village in 2007. It 61 contained 75 questions. 32 26 50 The questionnaire was distributed in September 2007. It was issued 0 to the 401 properties listed on the 16-21 22-30 31-45 46-65 66-74 75-84 electoral role. Of these a Age minimum of 18 were found to be vacant or holiday letting The main points to note are:- Why people live in properties giving a net figure of 383. From this 314 ♦ The largest group are the 46-65 Ufford questionnaires were returned, age band, 42% of the sample, Question 2 asked What is most 82% of the distribution. They and is still the largest if a pro important to you about Ufford?. were completed by 583 rata adjustment is made to The main points are:- respondents. reflect the greater size of the

age band. This compares with ♦ Nearly three quarters cited about 30% nationally in the access to the countryside. 82% of households 2001 census. ♦ The second most supported returned their ♦ 26% of adult respondents were selection was maintaining the questionnaire over 65 compared with 20% village as it is. nationally. A total of 314 ♦ The proportion of 5-15 year This voting pattern was common questionnaires olds is similar to the national to all age groups. figure of 14% A youth questionnaire was Population forecasts Most important to people: returned by 98 respondents, (but only completed by 78!). Access to the countryside Applying the population forecasts of the Office of National Statistics (71%) In July 2008 the main conclusions from the questionnaire were to the above figures suggests that Maintaining the village as published in a supplement to the by 2021 around 33% of Ufford`s it is (67%) Ufford Punch, the parish population will be over 65 years magazine, and meetings were old, rising to 40% in 2030. then held to give residents the This is without allowing for the The Conservation Area opportunity to make further continued inflows from elsewhere. suggestions. The village contains four areas These trends may lead to protected from development. In A detailed response to all the increased demand for medical addition at the south-east corner questions in the questionnaire and care facilities and domestic there is a conservation area. The can be found on the village services generally. It may also surrounding pasture and farmland website:- influence the nature of housing is designated a “Special www.onesuffolk.co.uk/UffordPC demand and leisure activity. Landscape Area”.

Population Structure

The table above shows the age profile of respondents.

Page 4 ♦ 542 people (94%) voted that the conservation area should be maintained

♦ 325 people thought it should be expanded to include all the water meadows

♦ 500 people thought that the area between Parklands and The Woodland at Parklands Avenue should be protected from development Suffolk Coastal Depot. This is in population. Q14 asked residents

fact part of Norfolk County if they thought the

Services. The group has interests encouragement of small Employment and in consulting, property businesses in Ufford was management and waste important. There was a general Businesses management. At Ufford there are lack of enthusiasm. There

150 employed: managers, appears to be little case on The Workforce computer and administrative employment grounds for the personnel and blue collar development of manufacturing In answers to Question 15 about workers. Only 2 live in Ufford. facilities. 200 respondents indicated that they were retired, approximately Hopkins Homes. The head office Neighbouring Melton and twice the proportion of national of this development company is both have small average. on the boundary of Ufford in industrial estates, while 3 miles Melton Park. 55 people, mostly away Woodbridge is an active Looking at the workforce the well-qualified, work there. market town. Beyond this is an following main points emerge:- area of rapidly expanding Crown Nurseries has a ♦ 167 were employed full time workforce of 18 of which 2 live in economic activity. Adastral Park ♦ 82 were in part time jobs Ufford. at (5miles) is ♦ 43 worked from home occupied by the largest telecoms ♦ 72 people were self employed There are part time jobs in research centre (BT) in the UK Ufford`s 2 pubs and several large and is to be developed into a The chart below shows that 53 farms in the immediate vicinity.. “global centre of excellence”. people worked in Ufford. This is and Ipswich, both presumably dominated by the 43 In conclusion, the number of jobs about 12 miles away, are working from home leaving only available in Ufford is actually expanding rapidly. 10 residents actually employed by similar to the size of the working others in Ufford. On the other hand 86% of those in work or How far do you travel to your place of work/occupation? education travel less then 25 miles.

Not applicable 203 Employers 33 35 to 44 It would be wrong to draw the 25 to 34 11 conclusion from the above that 36 Ufford offers few employment Miles 15 to 24 opportunities. 5 to 14 199 Situated in Ufford 53 Ufford Park Hotel. This straddles the border with Melton and 0 50 100 150 200 250 employs 150 people full and part Number of respondents time. Page 5 Housing Should the 573 residents responded to development this question boundary (village Suffolk Coastal has been envelope) be designated a “growth area” and expanded or retained? the Local Development Greatly Increased 11 Framework (LDF) proposes the building of 5000 new houses. The LDF also proposes to re- Increased a little 112 categorise centres of population. Stay as Present 386 Key Service Centre or Local Service Centre ? Not to join neighbouring parishes 173

The current method of ranking towns and villages is by reference Don’t Know 27 to their size. They are identified as follows:- Major Centres, Market Towns, Large Villages, This logic is not applied to Village Envelope Small Villages and Countryside. , , Marlesford The Core Strategy for Suffolk or which would be In line with the above table most Coastal suggests an alternative designated as Local Service respondents thought that the hierarchy based on “principles of Centres. village development boundary sustainability”. These are :- Major should be unchanged, although a Centres, Market Towns, Key When asked whether they significant minority (112) would Service Centres, Local Service thought Ufford should be a Key or not be averse to a modest Centres and Other Villages. a Service centre 442 (77%) voted expansion. in favour of being a Local Key Service Centres are seen Service Centre. Housing Requirements as “settlements which provide the full range of facilities and are In the consultation meetings held About half of Ufford`s residents capable of sustaining some minor in July 2008 a number of have moved here during the last expansion, groups of houses and residents raised the question of infilling”. Local Service Centres whether Ufford might be provide a smaller range of considered an “other village”. In There is a clear danger facilities, (the only difference on previous consultations this was that excessive infilling the list is that they do not have a not considered as it had not been could destroy the very doctors’ surgery nor a primary seen as an option. attributes that attract school) and development within them would be confined to people to Ufford “infilling or small groups which address specific local objectives” Should Ufford be a 10 years. It is probable that the Other Villages. Settlements with Key or Local Service Centre? village`s rural ambiance will few or minimal facilities where the continue to attract newcomers. presumption is against new development unless it can be Of existing residents 85% are not Don't justified as a rural exception. know, seeking alternative 54 accommodation in Ufford. It is not suggested that a primary school or doctor`s surgery should Key, The remaining minority is still a be located in Ufford. The 76 significant number. (85 proximity of these facilities in respondents, which could suggest Melton and Wickham Market is a demand for 40-50 dwellings). seen as sufficient justification by Local Question 7 sought to analyse this , 442 Suffolk Coastal District Council to need further. rank Ufford as a Key Service Centre.

Page 6 Preferred building features Transport

We all love to travel, we all love Chimney 96 our cars. Yet we all know that these loves present modern Solar panels 120 society with some of its greatest environmental problems. This Native hedge species only 183 clash of ideals applies to Ufford as much as elsewhere Off road parking 407 ♦ In Ufford 464 people,(92% of Originality must not be stifled 146 respondents) stated that the car was their main means of Roofing material should be visibly compatible 301 transport.

Infill housing should be visibly 367 ♦ Only 20 people (4%) regarded compatible public transport as their main

Maintain the character of form of travel. neighbourin g buildings 469 When asked what could be done 0 100 200 300 400 500 to help protect the local environment (Q20) 233 people Number of respondents said improve public transport, the third most popular choice. 197 people wanted to see traffic Some key points to note are:- It is possible that the change in reduced. economic conditions since the But when asked if they would use Although there is no sheltered questionnaire may have improved a better bus service the response housing in Ufford, 9 people said the potential supply of cheaper was lacking in enthusiasm. they would be needing this. housing. On the other hand Perhaps if such property did exist property finance has become Over half the responses felt they this response would have been more difficult. would occasionally use a bus rather greater given the age service if there was a better profile of the village. Such The importance attached to both service. Only around 16% felt demand might release larger the conservation area and the they would use an improved properties on to the market. village envelope means that it will service daily or weekly, which is be difficult to satisfy the above explained by the use of the car by There appears to be some requirements. confusion about affordable the overwhelming majority of housing. There appears to be no The answers to question 13 residents. interest in a “shared equity detailed in the above table Over 100 people, roughly a property” (i.e. part ownership ‘Preferred Building Features’ are quarter of respondents, would like affordable housing) from consistent with a conservative to see the following in the bus respondents to the questionnaire. approach to development. service :- Perhaps the latter term is just less ♦ an improved timetable enticing! Alternatively this Affordable Housing site at ♦ greater frequency demand may be reflected in the Parklands ♦ linking with train times interest expressed in starter ♦ linking with Park and Ride at homes and housing to rent. Martlesham

A significant demand for It is surprising that the issue of starter homes. Further price has not been raised. analysis shows that of Perhaps many of those who do the 30 people wishing to use buses have concessions. buy a starter home, 23 Without these a bus ride may not are under the age of 30. compete favourably with a shared taxi for three. Page 7 Ufford`s Roads The Environment Artists groups and ramblers appreciate the area for the A large part of Ufford`s road stunning unspoilt views and “system” is formed by country access to walks. The area The main point highlighted by the lanes, many without footpaths. around the church was chosen by answers to the Parish Plan However, lack of footpaths or local MP, John Gummer as his Questionnaire is that 71% pavements is only seen as a “little piece of heaven”. Thus the declared that “Access to the problem by around 15% of residents of Ufford have the Countryside” was the most people. stewardship of a built and natural important attribute of Ufford. “The environment that is treasured environment” covers several Largest areas of concern beyond the confines of the different aspects of life in Ufford village. which are of particular importance Traffic (176 ) to residents. These may have The Natural HGV`s using the village been mentioned elsewhere in the Environment as a short cut report but will be brought together (180) in this section to emphasise the A strong interest in the interlinked nature of life in this conservation of the natural rural village. environment was identified in On the other hand only a third of answers to the questionnaire. respondents supported the Ufford is a vibrant community set following speed control in a natural environment that has This includes a 60% support for measures:- changed little over hundreds of increasing the natural years. The environment around conservation area to include all ♦ flashing 30 mph signs, us includes the built environment, the water meadows with 68% ♦ traffic calming signs near the natural environment and how support for the creation of a children`s play areas. the actions of Ufford residents designated nature reserve within ♦ 20 mph limit on some roads. can affect both their local the parish boundary. environment and the wider world. Other suggestions were even less Another feature of Ufford is the popular. The built environment in Lower established woodland particularly Ufford is a development in Parklands and surrounding the When asked what improvements conservation area which 94% of recreation ground. There is could be made to roads and respondents would like retained. already an area of protected footpaths, the answers reflected The village has several properties woodland in Hospital Grove which other environmental concerns. with Grade 2 listing and a Grade is within the parish boundary. A (see below). 1 listed church which attracts very high percentage of the visitors from many countries. respondents (89%) considered the protection of woodland to Improvements to roads and footpaths be a high priority. This links to a request for a community orchard, community wood or allotments.

189 Improve the maintenance of footpaths It is difficult to see how the 169 Clean/maintain roads council will be able to provide this many allotments! 195 Reduce HGV traffic 205 Maintaining the Remove unneeded signs

275 environment Seasonal verge cutting 294 Keep verges mown and tidy In order to maintain the local

236 environment there needs to be Remove litter information about the existing 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 diversity of wildlife. The parish plan questionnaire identified 220 Number of respondents volunteers who would like to be involved in environmental

Page 8 projects ranging from wildlife, character of Ufford. increase bio- to which many other Suffolk hedgerow and bird surveys to diversity, reduce waste and villages aspire. creating a nature reserve and encourage the use of renewable carrying out a carbon footprint energy. There are 14 clubs and societies survey. This shows a widespread ranging from the Friendship Club interest in being involved in to the highly successful football maintaining the local Active support for team. environment. initiatives that: Village Facilities Recycling and energy saving was Preserve the character another area that was identified of Ufford and maintain There are several venues in as being strongly supported. its appearance Ufford that are used for Ufford has facilities for recycling community events and meetings. Increase biodiversity cans, bottles and paper and The Church has in the past been proceeds from this goes towards Reduce waste used for concerts. There are two maintenance of the recreation pubs which have a regular ground. 75% of respondents to Encourage the use of programme of events and have the parish plan questionnaire renewable energy been used for meetings. There supported further promotion of are also two halls, St Mary’s recycling. Church hall and the Sports Pavilion which are regularly used A village composting scheme was by many clubs and societies. also supported by 218 people. The Community There was a previous community From the questionnaire 43% scheme for composting but this considered that the Church Hall has not operated for several and Pavilion were adequate for One of the objectives for the years. the needs of Ufford. Of the 13% Parish Plan was to stimulate that were not satisfied, 66% 187 people were interested in discussion among residents on wanted a larger space, 64% renewable energy for their what can and should be done, requested more public toilets and homes. However the issue of both now and in the future, to 35% improved kitchen facilities. wind farms divided opinion with improve community spirit and However 70 people claim to use 117 in favour and 168 against. involvement in making Ufford an the St. Mary’s Church Hall either even better place to live. The questionnaire has identified daily or weekly and 52 use the strong support for the Ufford is a vibrant community Sports and Social Pavilion. conservation of our natural which has over the years actively Of the people who listed “variety environment and active support supported the development of of clubs” as an important aspect for initiatives that preserve the both infrastructure and activities of life in Ufford the main age group were either retired or approaching retirement age. As the age demographic is forecast to increase over the coming years the demand for additional space for activities will increase. This may require extension of the Sports Pavilion and renovation to the Church Hall.

River Deben at Hawkeswade Bridge Page 9 Events Village events

There was a great deal of interest in re-establishing the village fete in Ufford and in other activities Village fete 347 listed (top right). Village walk 94

Overwhelming support for Village picnic 75 re-establishing the village fete Children's disco 54

Treasure hunt 86 Societies 0 100 200 300 400 The residents of Ufford keenly support the 14 societies which Number of respondents already exist. The questionnaire identified support for the following new activities (middle right). Would you be interested in attending the following

The interest in new sports new activities in Ufford? activities implies that there is a 238 need for a larger village hall. The graph bottom right details these. Number of respondents

131

63 61 47 45 22 26 33 27 26 21 22 7 6 8 Bingo Cribbage Book Club Book Music Club Music Whist Drive Chess Club Chess Bridge Club Bridge Drama Club (cinema) Natural History Natural Rambling Club Rambling Another Art Club Art Another Local History ClubLocal History Church) (not Choir Flicks in the Sticks other) each meet Revive Village Fete CAMEO and (Come

Would you be interested in attending existing or new sports clubs/activities in Ufford?

82 75 70 68 71

40 Golden Jubilee Street Party 34 June 2002 28 26 21 19 11 11

82 people who responded Yoga Pilates Cricket Skittles Billiards Fit

would be interested in Snooker Volley Ball Volley Badminton Martial Arts Martial

attending yoga Dance Club Table Tennis Evening Keep Number of respondents Boules/Petanque

Page 10 St Mary’s Church

The church dates from the late 14th century and is internationally famous. Often it is the font cover in Ufford Church that is the most sought after attraction for the pilgrim and visitor alike. Pevsner spoke of the font cover as “A prodigious and delightful piece reaching right up to the roof”. Munro Cautley calls it “the most beautiful in the world”. This font cover, circa 1450, is richly carved with tiered finials.

The church is an active community with several services weekly. The questionnaire identified that a place of worship was considered important by the community for regular worship (39%) and for baptisms, weddings and funerals (55%), as a historic building (57%) and a Of the 124 people who rated the St Mary’s font cover c1450 times and variety of the services community building (30%). is described as 114 found them fairly or very well Although a large percentage fulfilling their needs. However “the most beautiful in the consider that the building and the 80% had no experience of world” Munro Cautley activities therein are important pastoral care. there was little support (10%) for a “Friends of St Mary’s” The questionnaire identified that organisation. 91 people are expecting to be buried in the churchyard, Suggestions for activities/events however, there is limited space. that the church could be used for as a community building are shown below:

Suggestions for community use of the Church 237 Exhibitions

117 Meetings

Concerts 290

Plays 150

0 50 100 150 200 250 300 Number of respondents Page 11 Local Government- Facilities Nevertheless, nearly half of Parish Council villagers thought there was a need for an “Information and

Advice Network”. However, only 2 Of particular note was the Education people offered to help set this up. discovery that 70% of people had not attended a parish council Ufford`s primary school was Utilities meeting, although 23% had closed in 1983. A modest number attended for a specific issue. (79) felt that this facility should be The quality of water, drainage gas

restored. However it is doubtful and electricity services was Most people consider that Ufford that there is sufficient critical regarded as good. (Although this Parish Council communicates mass to justify this. At present was far from unanimous in the well on planning applications and Ufford`s youth use as many as 14 case of electricity.) meetings, however, they are different schools. uncertain if this has much Similarly a significant minority influence on the District Council. The questionnaire response were critical of recycling facilities. confirmed the demand for Satisfaction with litter bins and 103 respondents said they facilities required by working parents (playgroups, after school dog mess bins was close to would like an interactive clubs, and Summer play balance. meeting schemes). The attitude to street lighting is more difficult to analyse as this is The extent of these facilities is not provided to the major part of There was interest from 119 constrained by Ofsted guidelines. the village. It would appear that respondents for inclusion of a The village is providing these to some criticism of the quality of topical speaker, while 142 wanted the maximum extent permitted. service arises where it is a less formal occasion. 103 provided. (e.g. In Parklands about respondents would like an There is demand for half of people thought it needed interactive meeting. facilities required by improvement.) Areas which do Crime working parents. not have lighting prefer it that way (less than 20% looked for an (playgroups, after school improvement) There is a Neighbourhood Watch clubs, and summer play

Scheme in Ufford with schemes) representatives covering all Health services areas. Most of the crime and The Doctors were given a clean anti-social behaviour encountered Around half of respondents saw a bill of health. However, an in Ufford is low level such as need for community learning such important minority (69) found it littering, dog-fouling and bonfires. as night classes. Further analysis difficult to see their doctor at a Over 30% of respondents said suggests that this is mainly seen convenient time and 24 people that they had not been affected as a recreational facility. Perhaps found it difficult to get there. by these issues. However, 50% this might be most easily met within the framework of clubs and said that they were affected by Dental services may be more of societies. speeding vehicles. a problem. Over half travel more

than 5 miles to see their dentist, Emergency services but this may reflect proximity to Over 50% of people said places of employment. 44 people When assessing the quality of they were affected by don`t have a dentist. speeding vehicles these services the number of “goods” overwhelmed the number of “poors”. (with the exception of Between a third and a half

community police officer people accessing care/ There was, unfortunately, a provision). Even larger was the support services had worrying number of people who number of “don`t knows”. Happily had been subject to burglary (28), transport problems this may suggest a low number of drugs/ substance abuse (16), emergencies in Ufford. intimidation (16) or assault (9). Question 52 asked respondents

to rate Care/support services. Page 12 Only 150 people gave an opinion, but this approximates to the number of people over 65. Between a third and a half of these had transport problems.

There are facilities to help. Perhaps they need more publicity. (see transport section).

Retail services

There was a major outcry when the village shop / Post Office in Lower Street was closed in November 2006.

The outlet was replaced by the Ufford Produce & Provision Co situated in Loudham Lane Both pubs provide attractive menus and a family (bottom right). Since the atmosphere. This attracts additional custom from circulation of the questionnaire it outside the village, which is essential for them has been announced that the Post Office there is to be replaced by a part time facility.

Even before then the village support for the shop was rather half-hearted. 143 people, about a quarter of residents, claimed to use the shop weekly or more.

Not surprisingly the highest use is from those in neighbouring roads, half of whom use the shop weekly. At the other end of the village the proportion falls to 10%.

Yet when asked why they shopped in Ufford when they did, 298 said they liked to support local shops.

Of those shopping away from Ufford 450 did so for the greater choice available. Just over half felt that they could buy goods more cheaply elsewhere, which suggests that the shop is quite competitive.

In the response to Q57 as many as 378 people, two thirds of the total, thought that Ufford`s 2 pubs, The Crown and The White Lion, were important to the local community. Only 83 villagers claim weekly usage and a further 67 go once a month.

The main users within the village live in Lower Ufford. Page 13 Youth Section Ufford Playzone

The views of young people in the village were sought through a separate questionnaire which focussed on issues which were relevant to children and young people aged 8-15 years.

78 Children and young people from all areas of the village completed the Youth Questionnaire. scoring clubs were: The results raised 2 main findings: Schools

♦ Tennis (38%) Young people in the village ♦ Rounders (33%) Young people value the currently attend 14 different ♦ Gymnastics (32%) peace and quiet and schools. An equal amount ♦ Cricket (29%) travelled to school by car and natural environment of ♦ Basketball (27%) school bus (47%). where they live

There were some really good There is a real need for ideas put forward for other clubs Transport young people to be able such as trampolining, boxing, to have access to more horse riding, karate and rock 94% of young people travelled to facilities climbing to name a few. places outside Ufford by car. Whilst there was a good number (48%) who cycled and 24% who Youth Club Clubs walked, the main means of

transport was reliant on non- There was considerable support 76% of these would like the Youth independent means of travelling. for a village cinema (Flix in the Club held at the Pavilion. 52% of young people said they Stix) with 69% of young people would use buses more if they saying they would attend. The 64.5% of young people were available at the right time. other top 5 clubs supported were: There were a lot of suggestions as would be interested in to the times and destinations ♦ Mobile gymnasium (42%) going to a youth club in public transport would be helpful. Ufford if one was started ♦ Music events (41%) ♦ Drama events (33%) Communication ♦ Art events, Skateboard park

Sporting Activities and BMX track all came in at Interestingly 26% use the Ufford 28%. Young people showed that they Parish Council website. This is wanted to be able to access a So what do young people do at the first real indicator of how the wider range of activities. The top the moment? website is used by young people 6 were: The most popular facility for young and could be developed further to people is the Playzone with 70%, build on this knowledge. ♦ Zip Wire (53%) closely followed by the Recreation It is clear through the results of ♦ Leisure/Sport facility (49%) Ground at 67% and then the the questionnaire that young ♦ Assault Course (47%) tennis court (27%). ♦ Cinema (44%) people like to be active and ♦ Swimming Pool (39%) Facilities at the Playzone were outdoors. This fits in well with the ♦ Roller Skating (36%) rated as Good (44%) and current thinking of children and reasonable (38%). There were young people leading healthier When asked ‘Which new sports/ lots of ideas for new equipment lifestyles. clubs would you attend in Ufford if but the most wanted was a zip they were provided?’ the top wire.

Page 14

74% of young people find out what is going on in the village through the Ufford Punch

There are definite links between the different facilities/activities that the young people are asking for. The catalyst to making this happen could be through the creation of a youth club which Cycle awareness day could enable young people to access a range of activities or specialist sports through trips. Do you think Ufford should have a Youth Council?

One way to meet the needs of young people of the village could 40 be to employ a qualified youth 35 worker to co-ordinate young 30 people’s activities in the village. 25 20 85% of young people had access 15 to a computer with internet 10 access. 5 0

Yes No No opinion Safety

behaviour. 43% said they had Environment 89% of young people said been bullied either at school or elsewhere but the highest they felt safe in Ufford response was to vandalism 71% would like to take part 4% said they didn’t feel (55%). in a wildlife survey safe 42% would like to take part Youth Council in an initiative to improve 7% had no opinion local energy efficiency There was good support for the 38% would like to take part setting up of a Youth Council in a local renewable energy 40 young people responded to (above). 20% of those initiative the question asking whether they responding also wanted to be had been affected by anti-social involved. This may be a good way to engage and involve the young The results show that young people in making decisions about people have a keen interest in Young people are the village they live in. their environment which could affected by: benefit from involvement in the Employment Environmental Forum. Vandalism Bullying Out of 72 who responded:

Dog fouling ♦ 14% had a part-time job Top 3 that young people Speeding traffic ♦ 18% found it difficult to know how to contact: Lack of play/ball get a local part-time job facilities at Melton Park Parish Clerk (46%) Drunkenness 76% of young people would find it A Parish Councillor (33%) Lack of respect for useful if local part time jobs were Neighbourhood Watch Co- public property advertised in the Ufford Punch. ordinator (33%)

Page 15 The key issues identified Key issues for below have been drawn together from the results consideration of the Parish Plan questionnaires.

Time Conservation Led by Scale Current action Investigate further issues to be Policy supported To resist Ufford becoming a Key Parish Council Short Service Centre 9 9 SCDC Extend conservation area to include Parish Council Medium all water meadows 9 SCDC Protect area between Parklands and Parish Council Medium The Avenue from development 9 SCDC Community Provision of allotments 9 Parish Council Medium Develop community learning Parish Council Short opportunities through societies 9 Local Societies

Revival of the Village fete 9 Parish Council Medium Flicks in the sticks (village cinema) Parish Council Short 9 Investigate the opportunity for Parish Council Medium establishing community orchard / Environmental Nature reserve 9 Forum To establish where residents of Diocese/PCC Medium Ufford will be buried once the churchyard has reached capacity 9 To identify individuals to take Parish Council Short forward and lead community support Volunteers projects 9 To improve maintenance of local rural Parish Council Short footpaths Environmental 9 Forum, SCC Appoint village handyman 9 Parish Council Short A larger sized community building will Parish Council Long be required (Following the large response 9 9 Local Societies from residents to be involved in new and existing sport and leisure activities)

Page 16 Denotes RAE Theme Denotes RAS Theme The key issues identified Key issues for below have been drawn together from the results consideration of the Parish Plan questionnaires.

Time Environment Led by Scale Current action Investigate further issues to be Policy supported

To set up an Environmental Forum to Parish Council Short co-ordinate and publicise 9 Investigate energy saving initiatives Environmental Medium 9 Forum Improve maintenance of grass verges Parish Council, Short and trees at junctions 9 SCDC, SCC Increase opportunities for recycling SCDC, Short Environmental 9 Forum Transport/Traffic

Improve awareness of transport Parish Council Short facilities, especially for the elderly 9 Local Media Investigate traffic issues (speeding, Parish Council Short HGVs and through traffic) 9 SCC Investigate purchase of village Parish Council Medium minibus 9 Youth

Appoint Youth Worker to co-ordinate Parish Council Short youth activities 9 Set up a Youth Club Parish Council Short 9 Youth Worker Review facilities at the Playzone Ufford Short 9 Playscheme Employment

Encourage local employers to Ufford Punch Short advertise vacancies in Ufford Punch 9 Parish Council Timescale definition Short Up to 12 months for achievement of Medium 1 - 5 years key issues Long Over 5 years Page 17 The Steering Group

Group member Contact No Main Responsibilities

John Mann 01394 460730 Chairman, Editor, Questionnaire Analysis, Infrastructure sections

David Chenery * 01728 747789 Transport, Local Authority Liaison

Karen Eyres Engagement analysis and Questionnaire, Environment

Graham Green Finance, Questionnaire Analysis

Heather Heelis* 01728 747789 Secretary, Treasurer, Publishing Youth section

Nigel Smith* Housing

Christine Wood Community

Messrs David Beard and Jonathon Dyke also served on the committee but resigned due to the pressure of other commitments.

* Denotes Parish Council Representative

The Group would like to thank villagers who helped with the distribution and collection of the questionnaire, the Ufford Park Hotel for their generous provision of facilities for “The Big Event”, and we are grateful for the financial backing of Suffolk ACRE, Defra, County Councillor Clare Aitchison and the Ufford Parish Council.

Parish Council Contact Details

Parish Clerk: Mrs Heather Heelis Hall Farm House Loudham Lane Pettistree Suffolk IP13 0NQ

T: 01728 747789 E: [email protected] W: www.ufford.suffolk.gov.uk

Page 18 Consultation Events

The Big Event

The “Big Event” launched the Parish Plan process. It was attended by over 200 local residents who had the opportunity to express their views on the numerous display boards which were arranged by subject matter. In addition 15 of the village`s societies exhibited their activities and recruited new members.

Photos: Left: The Ufford Players stand at the Big Event..

Right: The Gardening Club stand at the Big Event.

Above: Steering Group consultation with residents.

Photos: . Results Right: Residents view the consultation result at the Pavilion. events Below: Residents view the results at the Church hall

Three consultation meetings were held in July 2008 which exhibited the questionnaire results and gave villagers the opportunity to raise any further issues.

Page 19 Parish of Ufford

Suffolk Punches

Photos: J Mann Since the first Suffolk Punch foal was born in Crisp’s field in 1768, the image of this magnificent horse has become a figurehead for the village, appearing on the village sign as well as being incorporated in the name of the village newsletter. Suffolk Punches can still be seen in the fields around Ufford today.

Parish Council