Great Saling Parish Plan

By the Community, For The Community Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

Contents

Introduction – What is a Parish Plan? 3

How the Plan was Produced 4

Vision for the Future 6

A Brief History of the Parish 7

Areas of consideration; a summary of survey results, conclusions and recommended action points:-

• Transport 9

• Traffic 10

• Environment 12

• Local Services, Recreation and Leisure 14

• Play Equipment 16

• Allotments 18

• Internet Access and Broadband Speeds 19

• Summary of the Action Points 20

• Local Information 22

• Acknowledgements and Dedication 23

Contents Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

What is a Parish Plan?

Following a Government White Paper on the subject which was published in 2000, parishes across are being encouraged to produce a Parish Plan. A Parish Plan is an opportunity for communities to have a say in how their local areas and services are provided and managed. It can make a real difference; both to what people do within your community, and to how they work with others to improve local quality of life.

The Government wishes to give rural communities a bigger opportunity to run their own affairs, and to set out a vision for their town or village to guide its future development. Some communities have already prepared Village Design Statements or carried out a Parish Appraisal. Many have looked at local housing needs and the allocation of land for uses such as industrial and commercial development.

But a Parish Plan is more than a design statement or survey of housing needs. It should cover everything of relevance to the people who live in the parish including social, economic and environmental issues. It will need to address the needs of the entire community and everyone should have the opportunity to participate in its preparation.

In short the Parish Plan:-

• Will identify the issues that are important to that community.

• Highlights the needs and the aspirations of the community.

• Pinpoints the opportunities that exist for improvement.

• Every household and business in the Village has been given the opportunity to be consulted giving them the chance of being heard, not just those who speak up at local meetings.

• It will enable future projects to be planned with the knowledge that the community will support them.

• Through working towards a common goal the Plan brings groups and individuals in the community together.

It is a method whereby the community can express its needs and desires so that they can be considered for action by the Parish Council, local authorities and other local groups. With this in mind, the following pages set out how the Parish has gone through this process, along with the results and conclusions that have been drawn.

3 How the Parish Plan was Produced

A group of residents came together to form the Great Village Fete July 2009 Saling Action Group early in 2009. The Action Group is a non-profit making constituted group who are working In July 2009 further research was undertaken by the in partnership with Great Saling Parish Council, Braintree Action Group who had a stall/display at the Village fete. District Council, Greenfields Community Housing The display showed the results of the initial survey and Association and the Rural Community Council of . asked for further opinions on a number of subjects that The aim of the Action Group was to produce the Parish arose from the initial survey. Action Group members spoke Plan; the Action Group approached the Parish Council to the public to answer any questions and to show them and volunteered to undertake this process. how to indicate their opinions on the main boards (this was done by asking people to place coloured dots on Initial Consultation various items depicted on the boards – in effect to “vote” for their favourites). The first step in the process was to obtain the opinions of the Parish residents and businesses; specifically, the Action Research Group wanted to find out what kind of improvements and facilities the parishioners wanted to see. During the Autumn and Winter of 2009 the Action Group considered the findings of the surveys and carried out This process began with a written survey of the parish research to explore the issues raised by those results. residents and businesses which was undertaken in March A summary of the topics researched were: 2009. The survey was sent out to 131 households and business within the Parish, covering a number of issues. • Transport and Traffic We received 83 completed surveys; a response rate of 64% which representing the views of 117 adults, • Environmental Issues 17 teenagers and 35 children. • Leisure and Recreation

• Allotments

• Youth Clubs

4 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

• Play Equipment Steps were taken to differentiate between those who attended the event from within the Parish and those who • Village Shop came from outside. Those people who came from other areas were asked the reasons why they had taken an • Village Pub interest; these appeared to be mostly relatives of Parish residents and visit the Parish on a regular basis. • Internet Access and Broadband Speeds Village Fete 2010 In each case, the Group consulted with professionals in the appropriate field, including local authority officers The results of the surveys and consultations, all culminating (from Greenfields, Council and Essex in the Planning for Real event; were displayed at the County Council) for Leisure, Recreation and Environmental Village Fete 2010 and those attending were invited to matters, volunteers for groups such as youth clubs, submit any further opinions and ideas. Transport officials, local police officers, the publicans of the White Hart, manufacturers of play equipment, and designers of play and recreational areas.

From this research the main items of interest to the parishioners was identified and it was possible to narrow down the various options suggested to a list of items which merited further consultation.

Planning for Real Event

The Planning for Real event took place on 14th/15th May 2010. This featured a number of displays centred on the main topics identified in the surveys as matters of interest to the Adoption of the Parish Plan parishioners, along with a three dimensional map (created by the children of School) representing the The Parish Council and Action Group have considered Parish on which people were invited to place flags also the results of the various surveys and consultations, showing comments and opinions. Once again, people and this information, along with the conclusions attending the event were asked to comment on the drawn, now form the Parish Plan. various proposals (by indicating whether they thought these proposals were “must haves” “good ideas” or “not at all”) to be included in the Parish Plan; and were invited to voice their opinions on the various topics and to make any further suggestions on any subject.

Note: Note: The full results of the various surveys and consultations run to some several pages. These results are available to view on the Parish Council website, at www.essexinfo.net/greatsalingpc/ or printed copies can be obtained from the Parish Clerk.

5 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

Vision for the Future

All across the country, small rural communities are suffering. If we compare village life now to what it was 100 years ago, the changes have been drastic. Back then, peoples’ lives were generally within the village, people did not have to travel far to go to work, food was grown locally and all essential services were provided in the village or a neighbouring village: in short, the community was pretty much self sufficient and sustainable. It was vital for the survival of the village to work together to maintain the viability of the community.

With the increased use of oil and the fast movements in new technology, communities have become less dependent upon each other and considerably more dependent on outside sources for its’ material needs. It is now very common for people to travel great distances to work every day as very few people are employed within the village or the immediate area: on average there are two cars per household, and food travels hundreds or even thousands of miles to get to us and our dependence on the supermarket has over run the local shop.

There are also economic factors to consider. With rising prices we need to tighten our belts to enable us to deal with the current economic crisis. In order to combat these problems, communities must once again become more localised and reduce the amount of ever dwindling resources that we consume without compromising our quality of life.

By providing this Plan we hope to help the local area move forward without losing the benefits of an old established rural community. Some new housing may be needed in the area and a housing needs survey will be carried out to discover residents opinions. If results show that housing is needed, we hope that this can be made to fit in with the existing style in and around the village.

Quality of life will improve by reconnecting with our local community and becoming more in touch with our local environment as a source of food. We must strive for a community where people know their neighbours and look out for each other, a community that is resilient and self reliant for the greatest possible number of its needs. A community that sounds like one from 100 years ago but can harness the powers of modern technology.

6 A Brief History of the Parish

The Origins of Great Saling when Martin Carter carried out a major restoration of the whole structure and encased it in red brick. He was also The source of the name Great Saling is uncertain. Some responsible for the Dutch gables, one of which bears the believe that the name derives from the word ‘sallows’ date 1699, indicating that the gables may be the latest which is an Anglo Saxon word for willow, or from the of this design in the country. old English “seal(h)ingas” which means “dwellers by the seal or willow. This name gives the impression that willow Village Life once grew in abundance in this area; in fact, to this day there are still fields of willow growing on the outskirts At one time the village composed of neat little houses of the parish. It is also thought that the name may derive set around a triangular common of about 5 acres. from the family name of de Salynge. In the reign of King A prominent feature of the village was a magnificent Henry II (1154-1180) Robert de Salynge was the owner avenue of enormous Elms which extended to nearly half of the ancient manor. a mile to the South from Saling Hall. The last survivor of the great avenue (and also believed to be the largest of Old and Ancient Buildings its kind in Europe) once stood at a remarkable 114ft but later it was chopped to a mere 60ft, making its Great Saling is home to many Grade II listed buildings as contribution to the war effort. Dutch Elm disease later well as the charming St James’ Church which has been a infected the grand trees and they were felled in 1978. place of worship since at least the 11th century. It is likely that the first church was founded by Sir Baldwin Wiscart, The first available population figures taken from the 1801 the Lord of the Manor, who resided at Saling Hall. In census recorded 280 people living in the Parish, this then 1380 Hugh de Bybsworth, largely rebuilt the church rose to a peak in 1871 with 363 residents which has and probably erected the present tower. His son, another gradually decreased to approximately 250 as recorded Hugh de Bybsworth is believed to have re-roofed the in the 2001 census. building and improved the nave windows. In 1848, the White Hart flourished under the care of Along with many others, Saling Hall is a building of Samuel Adcock. Next door, Elizabeth Allen was dispensing interest, which predates the Norman Conquest (1066). ale at The Green Man. In 1797, there were 10 acres of This manor has changed hands only three or four times hops gardens in the north of the Parish which is vital for in 800 years and little has been altered since 1699, the brewing of good local beer. There was certainly no

7 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community shortage of fine local ale. In 1905, Great Saling had its Andrewsfield Airbase own brewer, William Allen (perhaps a relative of Elizabeth Allen) and there was also a local beer house that stood Great Saling saw the building of the first United States at the bottom of Rosemary House garden. Locals paid WWII airbase in Europe at Andrewsfield. It was, without one shilling to brew there. In more recent times the brew question, the biggest event in the Parish’s history and house became controversial. In 1921 it was reported to became the main topic of conversation over the shop the Parish Council that it was “not being controlled by counter and in the White Hart. The building began in any competent and responsible person”! July 1942 using hardcore rubble from buildings in London that were destroyed during the blitz. On its completion The village had most of it’s amenities within its borders. it saw the arrival of approximately 800 Americans from They consisted of: a dairy that once stood opposite The the United States forces. What impact this had on the White Hart at the entrance of Saling Grove, a school was residents is difficult to judge, although one resident opposite Grove Villas, a windmill, a builder; a post master, recalls looking out of her window and seeing the soldiers a baker, a butcher, a blacksmith and an agricultural “gambolling about in the Vicarage Field like a lot of newly machine maker to name but a few. Other local industries born lambs”. Perhaps this was an exciting new experience included the making of potash, cheese making, brewing, for the residents. spinning and the Parish Clerk was also the shoe maker. The local craft of straw plaiting also flourished in the The landscape of Great Saling changed beyond all village for more than 100 years. Fine examples of this recognition with the building of Andrews Field: New can be seen in Church. Pastures wood (22.462 acres of well grown Oak) disappeared almost over night, individual fields lost Before WWII, many residents were dependant on a water their boundaries, acres of wheat and barley surrendered pump which stood on the village green, another public their last harvest while the much of the wildlife lost their pump stood at Lower Hyge Cottage and yet another at habitats. Sadly, some of the flora and fauna disappeared the junction of the Shalford Road. Larger homes had the never to return. luxury of their own well. The war in the air was bought to a victorious conclusion At the turn of the century, John Whitehead recalls that and the hamlet of Great Saling had played is small, but when he was a school boy the pupils were allowed to not insignificant part in that victory. By the end of 1945 leave their lessons to see the first horseless carriage drive the last fighter has left and the airfield became an inactive through the village. In 1911, the motor car was not station, but with thanks to two local farmers the airfield appreciated by everyone, complaints were made of the was brought back into use. dust caused by the vehicles. In 1943 complaints were made to the clerk, who then wrote to the highways For Further information on the history of Gt Saling visit requesting a 10mph speed limit through the village. The Essex Records Office in .

Until around the 1980’s, most vegetables were home grown. In addition to large gardens that nearly every household possessed, there were 14.435 acres of allotments that were in use. With the building of the airfield, the dawning of the motor car and the coming of T.V., enthusiasm for allotments died out.

8 Transport

Access to public transport to and from the Village is bus from villages to Rayne to take advantage of other bus very limited; with one bus to and from Braintree on routes was also suggested. At the Fete, 19 people said Wednesdays and Saturdays, and one bus that goes to they would like to see cycle paths in the village. Saffron Waldon on school days only. Following a meeting with local authority, transport officials and the Action Research Group, a survey was distributed throughout the Parish on behalf of Essex County Council regarding the current As stated above, the bus services available at present are surveys available. As a direct result of this, the Community very limited. The Village Transport Representative receives Transport bus to Saffron Waldon (which runs once a week regular information with regards to changes to bus every Friday) was introduced. timetables and monitors those that affect the village – there have been no changes that affect us for some time. There is also the Community Transport Scheme, run by Braintree District Council, which allows the elderly and Whilst most residents depend on cars (or the goodwill disabled to book transport during the daytime (subject of friends, neighbours and parents), the need for reliable to availability and booked in advance) to take them transport is likely to increase in the future as residents within the District at a much lower price than a taxi. grow older and may become unable to drive and, as previously stated, the needs of school leavers and Current bus services are very restrictive and there is no workers are not met. provision for people who need to travel regularly (i.e. work). This will be especially relevant to school leavers The Government has campaigned to lower the UK carbon who are too young to drive or haven’t taken their driving footprint by making less car journeys; the provision of tests but will be starting work or attending college. more regular transport would allow residents to become less dependent on their cars and help the environment. Survey and Consultation results The Action Group has met with the Transport and Access Consultations results showed that 14 people considered Officer from RCCE who has helped to identify the needs that lack of buses were of concern; provision of a shuttle of the Village.

Recommendations

That we, along with Considerations the Village Transport Representative, continue In the current economic climate it would be impractical to suggest that extra bus routes be provided; to monitor local this would not be a cost effective for the bus operators. Other than those already mentioned, the only transport services and other bus route that travels near the Village is the number 9 bus from Great Bardfield to Braintree). One press for improved possibility would be to approach the operator to see if the route can be extended to include the Village to transport links to and allow people who wish to travel to Braintree for work or allow greater access to other bus routes and also from the village by train services: the Parish Council had previously taken steps with this but were told it was not possible. liaising with Local Similarly, the number 16 bus which travels from Wethersfield to Chelmsford (including , Authorities, bus Broomfield, Great Bardfield and Stebbing) would be another route to consider in this way. operators and rural and community agencies. New cycle paths are a difficult asset to immediately introduce into the Parish, and it was decided to initially make residents aware of the by lanes that we already have in the surrounding area. For example, there is a by lane that starts in Bardfield Saling and goes all the way to The Blue Egg in Great Bardfield. There is also another which starts in Bardfield Saling and reaches to Stebbing. Further details of these can be found on footpath map. (For a copy of the footpath map, contact Parish Council, details are found in Funding local information section.) Not applicable. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The survey results show that 14 people would like to see more buses along with 26 people at the fete. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 19 people commented at the fete that they would like to see cycle paths in the Parish.

9 Traffic

The initial survey highlighted speeding traffic to be a are reported to who note any problems and if problem within the village. The Parish Council has already necessary do their own speed checks. The police visited the tried to address the problem of speeding both within the village in April this year to carry out their own speed check village and at Blake End. and have informed the Community Speedwatch group that they will conduct more. A petition was signed by a number of business persons and workers at Blake End asking for a footpath to be laid Research from the bus stop to Blake End craft centre, the purpose of this was to make getting to and from the craft centre Statistics available at the time of writing cover the years on foot safe from traffic hazards. 1994 to 2005; they show an increase in traffic of some 55.2%. The speeding analysis of 2006 shows that 61.5% There is a Community Speedwatch group within the village of traffic through the Village travel over the speed limit, who have undertaken training with the laws and the and it is understood that later statistics confirm these equipment used to measure traffic speed; the group has trends. Part of the Planning for Real event focused on already undertaken a number of speed checks and these these concerns.

Considerations Recommendations

As suggested by the above comments, consideration needs to be given to the To further consider implementing some local agricultural and business traffic that need access to surrounding farmland or all of the following traffic calming and through the Village. At the same time, the problem of speeding traffic needs measures (to complement ongoing work to be addressed for safety reasons and also allow the villagers “quiet enjoyment” already done by the Parish Council and of their village. Community Speedwatch group):

Previously, a chicane would not have been an option as they no longer applied • Installing a chicane to force traffic to to “B” roads, but it is now understood that this decision has been reversed, slow down and this option will be further investigated. As has been suggested, road humps would create even more noise than is already generated, especially by larger • One sign (such as “please drive slowly vehicles. When the residents of Grove Villas parked on the road speeding was through our village” or similar) to be curtailed somewhat; it has been observed that now parking in this area has placed at either end of the village stopped vehicles are no longer obliged to slow down. The flashing speed indicator at the northern end of the village does appear to be effective most • To place a Speed indicator at the of the time; but obviously this does not do anything to discourage speeding southern end of the village, subject to from vehicles that approach the village from the South. It is understood that available resources these indicators cost some £5000 to buy; it would be considered prudent to look to Essex County Council or sharing with another village as well as looking • To place “rumble strips” at the North to sources of funding to buy another Speed Indicator. end of the village to further emphasis the difference in the speed limit within It is therefore concluded that the measures already in place need to be supplemented the village by other measures which can be put in place in a cost effective way. • To approach landowners at Blake End to see if it would be possible to pipe the ditch to conform to ECC stipulations and therefore allow a footpath to be put in place to allow people to walk to the area and passing buses to drop off passengers more safely

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Funding

It is suggested that we approach Essex County Council and the Highways Agency to see if provision can be made for the above measures.

Also, it is recommended that enquiries be made as to other sources of funding are available, i.e. grants.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 25 people at the fete said that speeding is an issue in the village.

Resident comments “need to allow grain lorries and farming traffic that is essential for local business and industry” “traffic comes into the village too quickly and often on the wrong side of the road”

• • • • • • • In the initial survey, 7 households said that a footpath is needed from Blake End Craft Centre to the Main Road. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The businesses of Blake End then formed a petition stating the need for a footpath with 19 signatures.

11 Environment

Great Saling is a rural village which fits in well with its Intricate connections exist among nature. For example, surroundings. A large part of this appeal is the natural larger mammals rely on smaller mammals, which rely on environment around us and the varied flora and fauna invertebrates, which rely on plants. Nature has evolved in to be found here. Our Parish is a host to a diverse number such a way that each species is dependant on one another, of species. It is vital that continuous effort is made to help and it cannot be forgotten that we humans are a part of preserve the biodiversity so that the wildlife can thrive and this web. Such close partnerships and interrelationships still be around for the future generations to enjoy. between species mean that if one species becomes extinct, the other could too. Although Saling is rich in wildlife, there are still lots that can be done to help the species which are in decline. Continuous effort to help preserve Many birds and mammals are decreasing, the lesser and enhance the biodiversity is a spotted woodpecker, the yellow hammer, the tree sparrow, must, this can be done within our badgers, hedgehogs and brown hares are to name but own Parish but also within our own a few, this is largely due to a lack of habitat, intensive gardens. There is lot’s of information farming methods, climate change and pollution from on the internet about how to create toxic chemicals. a wildlife friendly garden.

Survey and Consultation Results

Survey and consultation results showed that local people take a keen interest in their environment. At the fete, 20 people stated that nature and conservation is of importance. So following on from this a plan of the village was displayed at the Planning for Real Event along with suggestions made by the Tree and Landscape Officer at Braintree District Council with whom the Action Group had consulted. This discussion included a walk around the Village to look at the various areas which had potential for sympathetic planting and enhancing biodiversity. Villagers were then asked to vote which of these suggestions was a “must have,” “good idea” or “not at all.”

Enhancing Biodiversity. Plan and Results the path, leading to the main road through the village would be a good position as it is on the outskirts of the field and would 1. Playing field eastern boundary not affect the well kept look. Must Have - 6 Good Idea - 3 Not At All - 0 3. Rear of Grove Villas The boundary along the eastern side of the playing field is Must Have - 7 Good Idea - 1 Not At All - 0 currently planted with hybrid poplars that are likely to be The area to the rear of Grove Villas adjacent to a play area reaching maturity in the near future. Some have already been where there is also a small copse. Some planting to reinforce removed and a number of gaps are evident. In time these trees it and provide greater cover would benefit both wildlife and will all need to be removed, leaving a very open aspect and little making the area more attractive for children to play in. - possible shelter for users of the playing fields. Rather than wait until this to use large logs to create benches, walk ways etc. for play, happens it should be considered to start to fill gaps now using which would also provide habitat for invertebrates as they native hedge and tree species, so providing some continuity of gradually decayed. cover. As trees are subsequently removed new gaps will be created that can then be filled, so the process may take many 4. Village Hall years, but eventually you will end up with a longer-lasting hedge, Must Have – 8 Good Idea – 3 Not At All - 2 providing an improved habitat for wildlife, maintaining a degree Planting of fruit trees to form a community orchard is a pledge of shelter and a corridor for wildlife to travel along. from the ECC and would be a benefit for everyone in the village, but little range exists on the playing field for any significant 2. Playing field southern boundary planting. The land around the village hall may be able to Must Have - 8 Good Idea - 3 Not At All - 0 accommodate some fruit trees, although future plans for the Along the southern boundary of the playing field is an area with hall may not be compatible with this. An alternative to planting a few trees where there is a possibility of placing wooden play near the village hall is to plant the trees along the western side equipment. Planting wildflowers in this area and alongside

12 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

of the field and replace the fruit trees with nut trees so that the 6. Smooth Leaved Elm wasps are not a nuisance to the play area. Must Have - 9 Good Idea - 1 Not At All - 0 Great Saling was once the home of the tallest smooth-leaved elm 5. In front of Grove Villas in the country. A connection such as this may be worth including Must Have – 7 Good Idea – 2 Not At All - 2 in any plans, perhaps attempting to plant new smooth-leaved Along the verge are a number of trees, some of which are mature elms within the Parish. The Essex County Council have taken a and may in the near future need either extensive work to number of cuttings from some of the surviving large elms within maintain them in a safe condition, or removal as they become the District and homes for these are required. There is no unsafe or die. One or two trees have already been removed. guarantee that any of these trees will have resistance to Dutch In addition the large number of overhead cables and presence elm disease, but there is no harm in trying! In view of the of underground services severely limits to potential to plant potential of these to succumb in time, it may be best to choose replacement trees. Suitable sites could be identified and planted locations where their loss will be not damaging either visually to provide a degree of continuity of cover, lessening or physically. One resident suggested that the Elm should be the impact when older trees are removed. planted on the centre of the playing field, creating more of a village green.

Energy Research

Residents were invited to attend a Further to the initial report from BDC’s Tree and Landscape workshop which the Energy Saving Officer and the Planning for Real event, a further meeting Trust had volunteered to set up, was arranged between the Action Group, the Tree and however only 3 people were Landscape Officer and the village Tree Warden. A further interested in attending. walk around the village took place and the various areas were again reviewed, culminating in a revised Environmental Plan as seen above.

Considerations Recommendations

Any alterations or improvements must be sympathetic to the existing plantings That we carry out the Environmental Plan and wildlife. The overall effect should be one of enhancement of the existing as shown above. areas and not an obvious attempt to landscape. Ongoing assessment will be carried out Last year, the Parish Council received a donation of 5000 daffodil bulbs which into further ways of increasing the were planted around the village and they have greatly enhanced the areas in biodiversity in our Parish. which they grew.

Funding

At the time of writing quotations have been obtained for the first phase of the work (thinning out the Poplars on the Eastern side of the playing field; to remove weaker trees and allow those that are left to grow on more strongly and encourage the growth of wild shrubs and plants) and funding has been agreed. We also have funding for underplanting of native flowers, habitat boxes and planting of nut trees. A total figure for all of the proposed Environmental Plan has not yet been confirmed, however, funding will be sought from some or all of the following sources:

• Grants. • Donations (both of funds, equipment, materials and labour).

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • At the 2010 fete 20 people said that nature and conservation is important.

Resident comment “an orchard of fruit trees could be planted in front of Grove Villas, as older trees are removed”

13 Local Services, Recreation and Leisure

Since the loss of the Village Post Office and shop, the questions. The main considerations centre upon the facilities for services and recreation that are left in the availability and suitability of volunteers to run such an area are minimal. activity – individuals would be subject to a police CRB check before this could get underway. Many local children The pub has had a number of problems in recent years attend youth clubs at Great Bardfield and other nearby due to the high turnover of landlords and the downturn villages, requiring parents to take them to and from in customer numbers. At the time of writing the pub is these locations. However, it appears that a local facility closed for the foreseeable future and it is uncertain for children would be useful especially as children in whether it will reopen. the area get older.

Survey and Consultation Results Village Shop / Pub

The Spring 2009 survey indicated a wide variety of The idea of a shop at the village pub has been put forward needs under this subject and also a comprehensive list many times but unfortunately has not got off the ground. of interests, and this subject was further researched in As previously mentioned, the pub is closed; if it is not the subsequent Village Fetes and the Planning for possible to have a shop there then alternative sites Real event. would need to be considered.

Research Prescription Service Youth Club With regard to a prescription service, although the Doctor’s surgery had agreed with this idea, indications The Action Group has undertaken research on the subject are that not enough people are interested in this service of Youth Clubs, having invited the organisers of a local to make it worthwhile. youth club to speak at one of their meetings and to ask

Considerations Recommendations

The idea of a shop within the pub has already received a lot of support but for the That (subject to the pub reopening) we, reasons stated above it may not be possible to get a village shop up and running in as a community, support the Landlord the pub. Research shows that if the facility is put into place, more and more people in developing the Pub. will to use it to buy basic items that they sometimes run out of; bread and milk for example. It may also be worthwhile to invite known mobile shops to visit the village That we support the principle the idea of on a regular basis (this used to happen some time ago when these mobile shops a Youth/Children’s club and a Community parked in the pub car park). However, it must be taken into consideration that this Club, and that the feasibility of such clubs kind of facility will only exist if it is supported by the villagers; i.e. “use it or lose it”. be further researched.

If suitable volunteers can be found to run a Youth Club it may be worthwhile to open It is suggested that a comprehensive list one on a temporary basis to see the response it receives – there already appears to of clubs and other facilities be made and be a demand for this. published in the parish magazine.

There are already a number of clubs within the Parish (see local information section That events and clubs be more widely for further details). Social events are regularly held by the Parish Church and the advertised within the Parish: e.g. on the Village Hall Committee; no doubt greater willingness to support these events would Parish notice board, Parish Council and help to build community spirit. There is a case for a Community club (mainly targeted Village Hall websites and at the Village at adults but allowing children where suitable) which holds regular social events. Hall itself. Again, this will depend on whether enough people can be found to run such a club and whether it will be well supported. As there is a wide variety of interests >>>

14 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

expressed within the surveys etc. it may be more beneficial to have different events Funding that cover a wide range of subjects organised by the club. This would need to be self funding through club membership and fundraising events. It may also be beneficial Funding is available from Essex County to allow the membership of residents of nearby villages in order to boost the Council to the pub landlord to help with numbers. It is suggested that volunteers be sought in the first instance to ascertain setting up a shop. whether this idea will be feasible. It is proposed that any type of Social Club With regard to footpaths, The Parish Paths Partnership, or P3 as it sometimes known, or Youth Club be self funding by means is an agreement between the local parish council and Essex Highways, whereby the of subscription or entry fee, and that parish agrees to maintain the footpath and bridle way network in return for financial fundraising and research into other assistance. The main advantage to the parish is that it allows it to have control over sources of funding is also looked into. what work is carried out and when it is done. However, it is not proposed to have any impact upon the Parish precept. The scheme was introduced in Great Saling about five years ago and its main on-going responsibility is to arrange the bi-annual cutting of the paths. In the initial years a survey was carried out to determine the state of the paths and signage, which resulted in a local work-party to add to and repair a number of direction posts. It is intended that similar surveys are carried out every few years, or additionally in response to information received from those using the paths.

If anyone has a view on the state of the footpaths or bridleways, or is interested in participating in P3 activities, they should, in the first instance, contact the Parish Council.

A plan of footpaths in the Parish was produced in 2010 and distributed throughout the Parish. If you would like a copy of the footpath map, please contact the Parish Council. Details can be found under local information at the back of this pamphlet.

• • • • • • • • • • • In the initial survey 11 households said that they would like to see a youth club. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20 households said that they would like to see a shop in the village. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • When questioned at the fete, 40 people said that they would use the pub more if there was a shop in it.

15 Play Equipment

We have already discussed the provision of more play around the area of the playing field between and including equipment in the Village. Until recently there was only a the two wooded copses. These plans were shown at the small wooden construction which incorporates wooden Planning for Real event. posts and swings to walk across and a wooden “bridge”. There is little or no provision for older, pre teen children or Research teenagers. Observation shows that local children appear to make use of this area including the two wooded areas Considerable research into the provision of these facilities adjacent to it as well as the playing field itself. has already taken place, including meetings with a number of play equipment manufacturers who gave suggestions It is becoming increasingly important to the health and into the kind of equipment that they could provide. well being of children to encourage them outside away Eventually a plan was sought from one company to from computer games and to partake in the fresh air with incorporate most of the facilities requested by the fun filled exercise which is free to the children. villagers, including the provision of benches to allow parents to sit and watch their children. Survey and Consultation Results

The Spring 2009 survey showed that an improved play area was the most requested facility with 29 votes.

During the 2009 Summer Fete, this topic was further explored by asking both adults and children the type of equipment that they would like to be provided.

Due to the considerable interest in this subject, further research was undertaken by the Action Group and a plan drawn up for suggested equipment and layout, centred

Considerations Recommendations

Some of the suggestions were rejected because they were considered too dangerous, That we agree to the installation of play and it was thought that musical equipment would prove to be a nuisance to nearby equipment as proposed at the Planning residents. It was felt that the equipment should blend in to the natural environment for Real consultation and subsequent as far as possible, so it is recommended that any equipment should be made of amendment in accordance with further wood and other natural materials and not be painted or coloured in any way. consultation. We are pleased that progress has already been made with this and that Whilst there was a lot of support for the plans shown at the Planning for Real event, part of the equipment has already been the Action Group also spoke to individuals who live next to the proposed sites for installed. Once the equipment is in place, the equipment and discussed the plans. There were concerns expressed over the a health and safety check will be carried proximity and height of some of the equipment to some properties. The Action Group out by ROSPA. has gone back to the company who drew up the plans and asked for amendments to take into consideration the concerns expressed as outlined above. Amended plans were drawn up and were displayed at the firework night in November 2010 and at the White Hart for two weeks. It is now proposed that the site of the equipment is centred on the area adjacent to the football pitch.

The question of insurance and maintenance must also be addressed; however public liability insurance is already in place. The cost of future maintenance will also need to be considered - either that funding be sought from third parties and fundraising >>>

16 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

be undertaken at the time maintenance is required, or that these costs be taken into Funding account when the Parish Council considers its annual budget (although every effort will be made to prevent any impact upon the Parish precept). Funding has obviously been secured for the equipment now in place and further A football target and a basketball hoop have not been included in the immediate grant funding is actively being sought plans, however these items have been popular suggestions. Provision of these items for the second phase. Tenders are being would appeal to older children, and will be re-addressed once the first phase of the sought for the manufacture and play area is complete. installation of the equipment. Also, use of local businesses and volunteers In April 2011 the first pieces of play equipment were erected; a big swing, a seesaw (where appropriate) should be considered and a hammock. In the future there are proposals for further equipment including a to help lower the costs. small play hut for younger children and a larger hut for older children which incorporates rope netting for climbing.

Two benches made from natural wood are being made by a local carpenter and volunteers; one has already been placed by the play equipment and a second one should be in place sometime over Summer 2011.

Resident comment “Keep large area for football pitch and using it for larger events. Then developing the edges to tidy it up is a good idea”

17 Allotments

Historically, allotments were available in the Village in the Research farmland area just beyond the current Village Hall. The site was reabsorbed into the adjacent farm in the 1980’s after The 1908 Smallholders and Allotments Act places a the fashion for allotments began to wane in the previous statutory obligation upon local authorities such as District decade. Nowadays, gardening is one of the biggest leisure and Parish Councils to provide allotments where there activities in the UK and the desire to “grow your own” is shown to be a demand: it also confers power to the has increased considerably in recent years. The reasons authority for the compulsory lease or purchase of land for this are varied: fresh organic produce, the potential to enable them to carry out this obligation. for a social/community activity, exercise and the desire to reduce food miles. A representative of the National Society of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners met with a number of residents Survey and Consultation Results who were interested in forming an Allotment Society and, as a result of this meeting, the Salings Allotment Society The Spring 2009 survey showed that 8 people were was formed in July 2010. The Allotment Society has passed interested in having an allotment (28 were interested to the Parish Council letters from a number of local in gardening; it is probable that the 8 are included in residents asking for the provision of allotments. this figure). Further research was undertaken at the Planning for Real event.

Considerations Recommendations

Whilst there has been strong support for the provision of allotments, a number That we provide allotments in accordance of residents have expressed concern. The main objections appear to be centred with the 1908 Act, and to work in on the site being adjacent to and detracting from peoples’ homes. In searching conjunction with the Allotment Society for a suitable site, the location must be carefully considered – not so close as to to facilitate this. interfere with residents but within reasonable travelling distance and ideally within the Parish, although it is possible that it may be outside the Parish, depending on availability of land. Furthermore, conditions relating to the condition of the site and rules relating to structures (sheds) can be put in place to ensure that the site Funding does not resemble the “shanty towns” that many people imagine allotments to be. The Allotment Society anticipates that The advantages of an allotment site also include the social interaction that an it will need to apply for grants and allotment site can provide, appealing to young and old and where skills are shared. undertake fundraising as well as the Whilst there are a number of opportunities for social interaction within the Village funds from rent for the individual (Coffee club for example), this activity would become an important tool in building allotments (which will go towards community spirit. the costs of any lease). It is proposed that this is self funding and there will be no impact on the Parish precept.

18 Internet Access and Broadband Speed

Internet access is a necessity to local businesses and also Research a feature of modern life. In a remote area such as this, internet access of day to day matters such as shopping, The survey and consultation results show this to be an banking and communications are becoming more of important consideration in village life with 26 residents a necessity to ordinary people. Working from home is stating that this was a “must have” facility. BT have been becoming increasingly popular (and in the future it may contacted to discuss the quality of Internet/Broadband become necessary) and in itself important to a workforce provision earlier this year. They were advised that that lives in rural areas. It is also a very useful tool for individuals who had a complaint or concern should getting information of all kinds; children use it to help contact BT; these matters would be dealt with on an research their homework. However, it has been noted individual basis. Another service provider (AOL) confirmed that there are intermittent problems with connectivity that the equipment at the local telephone exchange had and that broadband speeds have proven to be very not been upgraded to allow for better broadband speeds slow in the Parish. (in line with recent Government policy which has stated that there must be improved broadband and internet The Parish Council has already discussed the need to facilities to rural communities and that the telephone look into this at a previous meeting. equipment must be upgraded to facilitate this).

Other villages and rural areas around the country have installed local equipment at their own cost; this option may need to be considered if BT is not willing to improve local internet and broadband access.

Considerations Recommendations

It is considered likely that the need for improved internet access will increase as the That we make formal contact with BT trend for use continues to grow and become a way of life; for example it is noted on behalf of the parishioners to demand that a number of Government required tasks are dealt with online – tax, benefits improvement in internet and broadband etc. However, it appears that the internet access and speed will not improve until access, to include a supporting petition upgrades are made to the Shalford telephone exchange – the Government deadline from the parishioners. Otherwise it is for improvements to broadband speeds is 2014. suggested that further information regarding other methods of boosting access and speeds be sought and considered.

Funding

As this is already covered by Government legislation there should not be any cost implications that would affect the parish precept. If BT cannot be persuaded to implement the necessary improvements in the foreseeable future then other avenues of action could be explored and that steps be taken to source grants/funding elsewhere.

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Summary of Action Points of the Parish Plan

In conclusion, the action points are those things to which the Community has expressed a need or wish. The continued support and involvement of the Community is vital to the development of the Parish and the people within it.

Therefore, the proposed action points for the Parish Plan to 2015 are as follows:

Action PointAction By Timescale Funding Priority

To implement some or all of the following traffic calming measures (to complement ongoing work already done by the Parish Council): Approach BDC, • Installation of a chicane. Parish Council in ECC and the conjunction with Highways Agency • One “Children Slow” sign to be placed at either end Essex County to see if provision of the village. Council can be made for the above. • To place a Speed indicator at the southern end of the village, Ongoing HIGH subject to available resources. Look into other sources of • To place “rumble strips” at each end of the village to further funding emphasis the difference in the speed limit within the village. i.e. grants.

• To approach landowners at Blake End to see if it would be possible to pipe the ditch to conform to ECC stipulations Parish Council and therefore allow a footpath to be put in place.

That the Village Transport Representative, in conjunction with the Parish Council in conjunction with Parish Council, continue to monitor local transport services and press the Village Ongoing Not applicable MEDIUM for improved transport links to and from the village by liaising with Transport Local Authorities, bus operators and rural and community agencies. Representative

Grants for the first phase of Continued Installation of play equipment as proposed at the Action Group in Commenced the work have Planning for Real consultation and subsequently amendment conjunction with Spring 2011; already been HIGH in accordance with further consultation with the parishioners Wynne Williams ongoing secured; further undertaken in November 2011. Associates funds are actively being sought.

20 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community

Action PointAction By Timescale Funding Priority

Explore and develop the possibility of a village shop. Action Group Ongoing HIGH

(Subject to it’s reopening) to support and retain the Village Pub. The community, PC Ongoing HIGH and Action Group

To consider the need for a Youth Club and look into setting up of Action Group Ongoing MEDIUM Grants and same if there is sufficient demand. fundraising as applicable.

To consider the demand for a Community Club. Residents and Ongoing MEDIUM Action Group

That events and clubs be more widely advertised within the Parish: Village Ongoing MEDIUM e.g. on the Parish notice board, Parish Council and Village Hall organisations websites, at the Village Hall and Pub.

To make Environmental improvements as proposed at the Planning Grants (Funding Action Group for Real event and subsequently amended in conjunction with the Ongoing already secured) HIGH and Tree Warden Village Tree Warden. Volunteer time.

Parish Council Grants To provide allotments in accordance with the 1908 Act, and to and Allotment Ongoing Donations HIGH work in conjunction with the Allotment Society to facilitate this. Association Fundraising

Not applicable in the first To make formal contact with BT on behalf of the parishioners instance but to demand improvement in internet and broadband access, to grants may be include a supporting petition from the parishioners. Otherwise Parish Council Ongoing required if HIGH it is suggested that further information regarding other methods it becomes of boosting access and speeds be sought and considered. necessary to provide for ourselves.

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Local Information

If you are new to the village, you might find this list of local information useful

• Nearest doctors surgery: Freshwell Healthcentre in Finchingfield Tel: 01371 810328 • Nearest A+E: Broomfield Hospital near Chelmsford Tel: 01245 443673 • Nearest schools: Gt Bardfield Primary School Tel: 01371 810252 Helena Romanes Secondary School Tel: 01371 872560 • Community support officer: Tel: 01371 851241 • Greenfields representative: Colin Bennet Tel: 01371 850719 • RCCE Village Agent: Chivonne Tel: 07540 720603 • Parish Council Clerk: Cathryn Carlisle Tel: 01440 731964 email: [email protected] • Gt Saling Action Group Charmaine Beckett Tel: 01371 853055 email: [email protected] • Gt Saling Vicar: Reverend Tim Goodbody, The Vicarage, Ruffles Place, Stebbing, CM6 3TJ. Tel: 01371 856080 email: [email protected]

You will find St James’s Church by walking through the entrance to Saling Hall Gardens which is opposite the road to Grove Villas at the North end of the village. Services are held regularly at the church, and all Parishioners are welcome. Up to date information of times and dates can be found in the Parish Magazine.

The Saling Hall Gardens are open in the summer months of May, June and July from 2pm - 5pm and is well worth a visit. You can book a visit via email [email protected]

Clubs held at Millennium Hall: • Coffee mornings - monthly - Contact: Jo Peake 01371 850260 • Garden Club - monthly - Contact: Jo Peake 01371 850260 • Pilates - every Monday 11am - 12pm • Book Club - weekly - Contact: Helen Davies 01371 850735 • Art Club - every Tuesday 10am - 3pm Tel: 01245 226505

The Village Hall is located just off Piccotts Lane, there is a footpath that leads you from the end row of Grove Villas (near no 20) to the Village Hall, via the playing field and play area. The hall can be hired for private badminton sessions, parties and events. Contact: Jo Peake 01371 850260

Local Amenities Food and Refreshments: • Timbers Blake End 01376 552553 • The Blue Egg Gt Bardfield 01371 811716 • Palm Trees Blake End 01376 328088 • Andrews Field Stebbing 01371 856744

Nearest Shops / Services: • Village Shop Shalford • Co-op Gt Bardfield • Saling Oak Service Station Blake End

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Acknowledgements & Dedication

Thanks are due to the following, whose help, advice and hard work made this Plan possible:-

The Salings Action Group: Graham North, Colin Bennett, Charmaine Beckett, Jasmine Beckett, Diane Greenwood.

The Parish Council: Mike Surridge, Peter Martin, John Maidman, Caroline Ratcliff, Diane Greenwood, Peter Wells.

The Rural Community Council for Essex, with special thanks to Jan Cole.

Officers of Braintree District Council and Essex County Council.

Wynne-Williams Associates Limited.

Hugh Jonson, Tree Warden.

Greenfields Community Housing, Kelly Scott.

Braintree District Council’s Greenheart Funders.

The National Lottery - Big Lottery Fund.

Diane Greenwood, Colin Davidson and Anne Aggis for supplying photos.

Timbers and Palm Trees for donating food for the Planning For Real Event.

A big thank you to all the residents and businesses who participated in the surveys.

This Parish plan is dedicated to the memory of the late Graham Bool. His ceaseless work and tireless dedication to the village of Great Saling was an inspiration to the lives of everyone around him. His vision of a united community is one that those of us who follow in his footsteps would seek to emulate.

23 Great Saling Parish Plan By the Community, For The Community