Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Boscastle: The Queen’s Head and entrance to harbour. Photo provided by Jonathan Stirrup © Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

This Parish Plan, completed in April 2016, is based on the results of a survey carried out in December 2013. The first part of the report gives a summary of the findings and a commentary from the Steering Group. This is followed, from page 24, by the detailed results, as analysed by an independent person.

When this survey was initially conducted 422 questionnaires were successfully delivered to members of the Parish community. Additionally 156 letters were sent to those with a residence in the village but who did not appear on the local electoral register for the area. The steering committee have attempted to be as inclusive as possible for the purposes of gaining a representative view of life in the Parish from as many voices likely to have an interest in the Parish as possible. 230 questionnaires were returned and 5 requests, as a result of the mailshot, were made for a questionnaire. This report is based upon the findings of these 235. Following completion of phase one (the collation of data) and completion of phase two (the completion of this report) 5 more questionnaires were returned that unfortunately have not been included in this report due to time constraints.

Boscastle is an old harbour village in North Cornwall, notably famous for a severe flood in 2004. The Parish comprises Forrabury and Minster and Boscastle village as well as outlying areas as far as Slaughterbridge. A detailed image of the Parish and its boundary can be seen on the final page of this report.

The main industry in the area is tourism with several commercial enterprises in the Parish. The Parish supports a small Primary School as well as Infants. There is a Doctor’s Surgery and Post Office service. In 2009 OCSI reported the population to be 746.

Steering Committee members

Arthur Bannister

Jane Castling

Brian Clarke

Chris Jarvis

Myrna Lester

Margaret Pickering

Chris Rodda

Peter Steege

Analysis of the Survey results was conducted by Jonathan Stirrup. Both Peter Steege and Brian Clarke died before the completion of the survey analysis. Their contributions were greatly appreciated and they are sadly missed.

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Contents HISTORICAL CONTEXT ...... 3 STEERING GROUP’S SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 5 HEALTH ...... 6 ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY ...... 7 TRANSPORT & ACCESS ...... 9 CRIME...... 10 HOUSING ...... 11 BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT ...... 12 EDUCATION ...... 14 COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SAFETY...... 15 RECREATION & LEISURE ...... 17 CHILDREN: 5-18 YEARS OLD ...... 18 CHURCH/CHAPEL ...... 19 PARISH COUNCIL & NATIONAL TRUST ...... 20 SUMMARY: THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESS OF THE PARISH: ...... 22 ACTION ...... 23 RESULTS OF PARISH SURVEY ...... 24 1. ABOUT YOUR HOUSEHOLD ...... 25 2. HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES ...... 27 3. ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY...... 29 4. TRANSPORT AND ACCESS...... 31 5. CRIME AND DISORDER ...... 32 6. HOUSING ...... 34 7. BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT ...... 36 8. EDUCATION ...... 37 9. COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SAFETY ...... 39 10. RECREATION & LEISURE ...... 42 11. CHILDREN: 5-18 YEARS OLD ...... 46 12. CHURCH/CHAPEL ...... 47 13. PARISH COUNCIL & NATIONAL TRUST ...... 49 14. THINKING CAPS ON ...... 52

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HISTORICAL CONTEXT Introduction from local historian Ann Knight

The parishes of Forrabury and Minster form the village of Boscastle and its surrounding areas and lie within the historic Hundred of Lesnewth. There is evidence of human habitation from Celtic times to the present day both in the Cornish language placenames and surnames, Gunpool, Penally, Willapark, Beeny, Dunn, Talarne and in the archaeological finds, pre-Christian burials and stone monuments. The people of Boscastle spoke in the Cornish tongue: a Brythonic language, closely allied with Breton and now Cornwall has joined the Scots, Welsh and Irish as official members of the UK’s Celtic minorities. Some local families are recorded as living in the village since the 15th century.

Boscastle takes its name from the Norman Lords of the manor who came over with William the Conqueror. The Botterells or Bottreaux were people of importance in the country. They married into the royal family, fought alongside their king and were both sheriffs and keepers of the keys to the king’s castles in Cornwall. They built Bottreaux castle on the strategic promontory at the top of Dunn ( Cornish for castle) Street. They set up the market to control the buying and selling of goods, took control of the milling of grain and built the two village churches and the chapel in Gunpool dedicated to St James. All the inhabitants, shops and ventures of the village and surrounding areas existed in relation to the manor.

An economy was built around the harbour. The pier was rebuilt by Sir Richard Grenville in 1584 at the request of the local fishermen. In 1740 repairs were made to the pier by Cotton Amy who also built the harbour wall. Imports, exports, fishing and farming were the mainstay of the village.

Boscastle remained a manor for almost 1000 years until it was sold in the 1950s. It had retained a continuity of landlord, tenant and workforce. That continuity built up a considerable expertise and knowledge allowing ever improving methods of managing the day to day running of the land and the community.

This expertise built up over millennia ensured the manor workmen carried out the maintenance of the village efficiently. For example, knowing the danger of regular flooding, they carried out meticulous maintenance of the rivers Valency, Jordan and other watercourses to mitigate that flooding. Evidence of the manor workforce's maintenance of the village itself could be still be seen in the 1970s in the then overgrown slate storm drains, slipways and culverts. The workforce managed banks and hedges built to direct run off or strand debris in the flood plain that might otherwise cause debris dams and each spring and autumn they cleared saplings and brush from the riverbank and throughout the valley bottom. The village was pickled with underground leats to carry water to the shutes, brewhouses, forges and mills. These were maintained and repaired as a matter of routine. Specific areas like Gunpool were kept free of buildings to allow the boggy ground to act as a soakaway in periods of prolonged wet weather. Everything was done with economy and purpose.

The village was not only self sufficient but carried imported goods through the harbour to the whole of North Cornwall and stretching as far afield as Saltash and Plymouth. Cargoes were stored in warehouses in Quaytown and Bridge at the bottom of the village. Residents lived in Toptown. Ships plied their trade up and down the coast from Liverpool, Gloucester and Bristol and as far afield as Canada and the States taking emigrants away from poverty and famine and bringing back timber and guano.

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The village had almshouses and a trust was set up in the 17th century to care for the needy. Boscastle looked after its own In the latter quarter of the 1800s, the Lord of the Manor, Henry Pige- Leschallas put considerable effort into updating and promoting the village to bring in new blood and money. He was responsible for building the villas in New Road, providing running water and sewerage systems, the Town Hall in Quaytown, the telegraph and the lower bridge which united both sides of the harbour and replaced a ford. A small tourist business was built up with guests being collected from Camelford Station in horse and trap and taken to farms, individuals houses and guest accommodation.

The manor was sold in 1950s by the Bellamy family to TP Fulford who bought the entire manor as a speculative venture to sell on immediately. The properties were put on the open market with the tenants still in residence. After protest Fulford cancelled the sale and offered the properties to the residents for sums of around £200 each, a sum many could not afford. The village was opened up to outside interests. It was no longer self sufficient.

Floral Dance – 1950s

With the growing influence of newcomers, changes were being made at a rate not seen before. Many properties became second or holiday homes taking housing stock away from the local population, particularly the young. The church choir ceased through lack of choristers, the silver band ceased for the lack of bandsmen. The regular Flora dance had no resident band and with the over riding influence of the National Trust in the Harbour area there was nowhere for the dancers and band to gather at the end of the dancing. The memorial fields, once given to the villagers in memory of those who died in the Great War, became the car park and so they lost the venue for the

4 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan village fete and yearly the carnival to gather. The village had less and less opportunity for the pleasure of social gathering.

The harbour area had been a place where children played and learned to swim, and local families gave school children their first work experience in the school holidays. Villagers could watch films in the Apollo Cinema and attend beetle drives, concerts, dances and discos. The area became largely National Trust property, an area for day trippers. Bridge where there had been a warehouse, grocery stores, bank, chemist, petrol station and electrical store changed their use to supplying the tourists. With the change to tourism, houses began to be lived in for only part of the year and both North Cornwall Stores, Knights Shop and Bottreaux Stores at Toptown closed.

STEERING GROUP’S SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

INTRODUCTION

It has been clear that the majority of people completing the survey form were of the older age group and it is recognised that this will inevitably slant some of the statistics derived from the survey.

The Village Plan group advise that F&MPC should explore obtaining the views of younger members of the community. This might be via online social media or through targeted questionnaires.

Note that;

F&MPC refers to Forrabury and Minster Parish Council. The boundaries of this Parish are shown on map at [add ref]

Cornwall Council is the unitary local authority; it combines the roles of the old Cornwall County Council and the local district councils, which no longer exist.

‘Steering Group’ refers to the F&MPC Parish Plan Steering Group, who produced this report.

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HEALTH

Air Ambulance Valency Lawn Photo: Jim Castling

Summary of survey findings

 High level of satisfaction with Boscastle Surgery. Suggestions for improvement include more evening and/or week-end opening , a handrail on the steps to the surgery and a chiropodist at the surgery

 Much lower level of satisfaction with Dental Services. The main issue being distance to travel.

 Two thirds of respondents happy with, or had never needed, hospital services. Negative comments cite waiting times, distance and instances of poor care.

 Of those who responded to the question on Out-of-Hours Doctor Services and Ambulance Services the majority were happy. Main complaint raised regarded waiting times for both services.

Commentary

Since the Survey was carried out there have been some significant changes to the provision of medical services. Out of hours care was at that time provided by SERCO, a commercial organisation, who took over from KERNOWDOC, a doctors’ co-operative. The latter had been highly rated by patients. SERCO’s management of Out of Hours care resulted in Parliamentary questions regarding

6 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan quality. The service has now been returned to a doctors’ co-operative – D-DOC . Early impressions are that this organisation meets patients’ needs more satisfactorily.

We are pleased to report that a handrail has now been installed on the steps adjacent to the Village Hall which lead to the surgery.

Seven day surgery opening and extended surgery hours are currently the subject of discussion by Government with the profession but are likely to be limited by available funding and reduced manpower. We are fortunate in that Bottreaux Surgery has been able to recruit new General Practitioners to fill retirement vacancies. Traditionally Cornwall did not experience difficulties in recruiting GPs; however this has changed dramatically over the last ten years and many Cornish practices are unable to attract new partners.

Hospital resources are within the spending plans due imminently to be announced by the Government. It is improbable that any major hospital resources will be available closer than Truro or Plymouth.

A number of consultants currently hold clinics in general practice surgeries but the number of available rooms in surgeries is very limited and many para-medical personnel compete for these. A significant number of patients per clinic will be necessary to justify the consultant’s travelling time. It is more likely that public demand will encourage more satellite clinics in ‘Cottage’ hospitals such as Bodmin, Launceston and Stratton.

Ambulance services have been re-organised since the survey and there is a greater emphasis placed on using First Responders and Paramedics based in cars. The Cornish Air Ambulance (the first in the United Kingdom) provides a vital service - the reality of the nature of Cornwall, essentially long and thin, the distance from General Hospitals, seasonal traffic density and relatively slow roads mean that transfer to hospital can be slow.

Dental services in the area are currently under scrutiny. They have apparently ceased due to poor local uptake. The North Cornwall Community Network of local Councils carried out a survey of local inhabitants 6 months ago and meetings are now being held to explore whether an NHS Dental service can be re-instated in the area.

The Steering Committee will share its findings with the Doctors’ Surgery Manager. The Steering Committee will also write to the local MP, Scott Mann, requesting his support for NHS dental provision in North Cornwall and he should be sent a copy of the full Village Plan document for information and comment.

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY

Summary of survey findings

 154 respondents do not have an issue with street lighting but 75 do. Suggestions for improvement included a combination of dimming, timing and height adjustment.

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 The spread of wind turbines and solar panels was of concern for just over half of respondents, with the most concern leaning towards commercial rather than domestic installations.

 Dog fouling was the most frequently expressed concern with many suggestions regarding provision and emptying of bins in the harbour and coast path areas.

 A wide variety of other concerns were raised including traffic in New Road, unoccupied houses and commercial signage.

Commentary

The brightness of street lighting is now reduced by 25% at night. It is not possible to do any more without a very expensive change in technology.

In any future consultations regarding proposed wind or solar power planning applications the survey will be used to evidence the significant, though far from universal, opposition, especially to large-scale commercial installations. In 2015 significant reductions in subsidy for renewable energy schemes have been made by the Government. This is likely to reduce the number of future schemes. (Note that some estimates are that Cornwall now generates 30% of its energy from renewable energy).

Image courtesy of Anusorn P nachol at FreeDigitalPhotos.net The National Trust is now providing two dual-purpose dog/general waste bins in the harbour. The Steering Committee have been advised by Cllr Glenton Brown that Cornwall Council are unlikely to provide any new bins but that no plans exist to reduce the number. The Parish Council will keep an eye on bin provision and use survey results to put pressure on CC as necessary.

Dog fouling is an offence, carrying a significant penalty for owners. It remains for individuals to witness and report occurrences to the dog warden. The dog warden will also address nuisance from barking dogs. (Contact 0300 1234 212) . As usual with most anti-social crimes it relies upon education and vigilance of local residents. In addition, the Parish Council have erected reminders in sensitive areas, such as the playing field.

Due to cuts in Government funding Cornwall Council will not be investing in any road improvements until 2019 at best. The Parish Council will prioritise improvements in New Road and outside Doctor’s surgery when opportunity arises.

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Within certain size limits commercial signage on private property is not subject to planning control. It remains, therefore, for individuals to raise concerns with business owners. The Steering Committee has drawn the matter to the attention of the Boscastle Chamber of Trade and Commerce (BCTC); however, the BCTC does not have any sanction over members, and not all businesses are members. Any signs obstructing the highway or pavement are an issue for Cornwall Council and should be reported to them.

See also housing section with regard to unoccupied dwellings.

TRANSPORT & ACCESS Summary of survey findings

 The vast majority (210) of respondents have access to a car. Only 17 report using public transport and 13 the Community Bus.

 Approximately half are happy with the local roads and half are not. Most common issues raised are parking near the Surgery and problems in New Road.

 80 respondents had problems with parking.

 There were a number of calls for a bus shelter at the top of the village where children, as well as the public, currently catch buses to school. There was also some call for improved and more regular services.

 There was some added call for the improvement of road surfaces and the filling in of potholes as well as increased frequency in the clearing of debris on roads from foliage as well as the clearing of drains. On top of this there was minor mention of a need for paths along roadsides presently without pedestrian facilities and the need for a maximum width sign at the top of Fore Street.

Commentary

Residents without their own cars, or access to the cars of friends or family, are clearly relatively isolated in Boscastle. Like many other villages in the county Boscastle no longer has a full range of shops, though home delivery of purchases is widely available. However residents without internet access are disadvantaged and are likely to be those with no personal transport. At the time of writing the nearest Post Offices are in Tintagel and Camelford; however it is anticipated that there will be a Post Office facility in the village Spar shop in the near future. The Western Greyhound bus company has become bankrupt but new organisations have now taken over the routes; any reduction in the services is likely to have an impact not just on residents but also on tourism.

There is a parking problem in summer for a significant number of residents and Cornwall Council has been approached with a view to creating resident only parking places. It is resistant to doing this.

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There are holiday lets in Fore St, where little parking is available, which can generate three cars for the temporary occupiers of one property. More importantly the congestion in peak season makes it unlikely that emergency vehicles could navigate the street in summer, residents and tourists will be affected alike if fire engines or ambulances are unable to access properties. F&MPC should refuse to take ‘No’ for an answer in this matter and make a further approach to Cornwall Council on the grounds of community safety. There is some late good news to report, on the 18th January 2015 Cornwall Council announced a study into issues including residents' parking permits, car park prices and disabled parking.

Major issues have been identified with parking in two main areas - New Road and the road adjacent to Bottreaux Surgery. While a number of detailed schemes have been discussed with Cornwall Council they have categorically stated that funds are not available to make any changes until 2019. Unfortunately it would be prohibitive for F&MPC to attempt to pay for any schemes in terms of traffic orders. The issue has been regularly raised at F&MPC meetings and recently it was decided to renew discussion with Cornwall Council on the matter.

Since the survey was carried out, a new private car park has been created at the top of the village opposite the surgery. This development has met with support from F&MPC and the community in general. It is, however, an underused resource even though the parking charges are reasonable. By way of comparison: in the upper village car park the charge for the 1st hour is 50p and for up to 4 hours £1, while in the lower village car park the respective fees are £1-10 and £4-50. The question has been raised as to whether the surgery and its staff could negotiate parking spaces in this car park at reduced rates, thus freeing up places outside the surgery premises for those attending the surgery. However, while this would benefit patients it is recognised that this would impose a new and probably unacceptable cost on surgery staff.

Rather than duplicate commentary, please see the Business & Employment section regarding the issue of parking costs to workers in the lower village in summer. The majority of these are on minimum wage or thereabouts and are obliged to pay £5-20 for a 24 hours stay.

CRIME

Summary of survey findings

Only four respondents were concerned by the level of crime in the Parish. The overwhelming majority are happy with access to Police though a number would like to see more visible policing.

There was somewhat more concern about anti-social behaviour, including noise from those using the local pubs, children and dogs.

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Commentary

On the whole, Boscastle remains fortunate to be a very low crime area and no specific action is planned. PL35 is one of the five lowest postcode areas for recorded crime in the UK.

It remains up to individuals to raise any perceived anti-social behaviour directly with the perpetrators and to escalate with the appropriate authorities or Police if necessary.

HOUSING

Clover Lane Close ` Photo: Chris Jarvis

Summary of survey findings

 For three quarters of respondents, the range of available housing is important. 62% stated second homes and 41% holiday lets were a threat. There were many negative comments about the impact of second homes on community life and on house prices. The issue was also raised in context of threats to local businesses.

 Holiday lets attracted both positive and negative comments since they also create employment and trade locally.

 Opinion was roughly equally divided on whether the Parish needs more housing.

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Commentary

Major housing development in Boscastle is not within the current County Plan, though the nearby communities of Camelford, Bodmin and Bude are scheduled to undergo this. However more minor development is likely to take place within the recently relaxed Planning regulations.

There is considerable difficulty regarding the meaning of ‘affordable’ housing and conflicting views on the need for more housing stock locally. The existing plans for the old Bottreaux Garage site include social accommodation on a very limited basis.

Recent increases in Stamp Duty may have an effect on the future purchase of second homes.

A number of respondents drew attention to the fact that many second homes were located in Fore Street and in the harbour area and were old, sometimes listed and for the most part properties which required significant expenditure for upkeep far beyond the reach of many local people.

A survey of accommodation in the village revealed two houses which have been unoccupied on a long term basis. The County Council declared their intention to review these and it is noted that one is currently undergoing major renovation while the other shows no evidence of any change. F&MPC should ask the County Council what action they propose to take with regard to this.

BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT

Summary of survey findings

 Of the 120 respondents in work, 82 work wholly or partly in the Parish.

 Business owners cited free parking for staff and locals as the factor that would most help them generate more jobs.

 The majority are against expansion of commercial activities and light industry. Of those who suggested more growth, suggestions included light industry, web based businesses, different retail ideas, fishing and food production. A number of comments were made about duplication of shop services and available products in the harbour.

 When asked about the danger of losing existing businesses, the threat of competition, especially to the Cornish Stores and Post Office, was mentioned by 16 people. Parking issues were raised by 18 people and the seasonal nature of most trade by 13.

 High speed broadband is deemed important by those who use it.

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Riverside Walk Photo Chris Jarvis

Commentary

Parking for staff, locals and visitors in the harbour area remains a major concern for businesses based there. The Parish Council and the Boscastle Chamber of Trade and Commerce (BCTC) are working with Cornwall Council to try to secure the long term provision of Toilets and Parking. A Community Interest Company may be formed to manage the Toilets.

Since the survey took place the Spar shop has applied to take over the Post Office function and this is expected to go ahead in 2016. The artists’ cooperative gallery in the old mill and a sea-food outlet in the old rocket store have opened. A number of shops and cafes have changed hands but none have closed. The variety and number of shops will vary through time according to market forces.

The majority of locally based businesses are wholly or partly dependent on tourism. Heavy reliance on this one sector is a Cornwall wide problem. There is general agreement that more jobs, especially of a non-seasonal nature, would be a good thing, but not at the cost of disturbance to our outstandingly pleasant environment. The relative lack of well-paid all year round jobs discourages young people from moving to (or staying in) the parish. It is hoped that hi-speed internet provision will help Cornwall to attract and retain high-skilled work; however, the remoteness of the region continues to be a disadvantage relative to much of England.

Cornwall has the lowest per-capita income in the UK. While the survey results for Boscastle generally opposed further local development of light industrial and commercial premises in the

13 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan village, the experience for the County as a whole has shown that high tech industry has thrived and local high quality products can be produced and marketed successfully.

The style and location of suitable premises and their location would be determined under a Neighbourhood Development Plan1 which would operate in conjunction with the County Core Strategy directives, planning department and other relevant agencies. The net effect would be to provide a wider variety of career opportunities, improve wage levels and attract a younger population to the area.

EDUCATION Summary of survey findings

There were very high levels of satisfaction with pre-school and primary education services.

There was much less satisfaction with adult services – 32 out of 117 respondents were dissatisfied, distance being the most common issue.

Commentary

While the survey revealed a generally high level of satisfaction with pre-school and primary education within the parish, there is a present threat to provision caused by a historic decline in primary school rolls, although numbers have recently stabilised. To reduce costs, Boscastle Primary has a combined headship with Port Isaac, and employment contracts have been modified to utilise staff more effectively. The threat to pupil numbers will persist unless there is a demographic change which encourages younger families to move into the area, which depends on cheaper housing and better job opportunities.

Over the past twenty years there has been a considerable increase in further and higher education facilities at Plymouth, Falmouth and Truro, and latterly at Bodmin. While improving and widening the range of sixth form courses available it has been argued this has had an adverse effect on sixth form numbers in schools, resulting in the closure of the sixth form at Sir James Smith’s. Another downside is that students now have to commute greater distances, drawing them away to larger centres and thus affecting the structure of smaller rural communities.

Satisfying educational needs in rural areas needs greater per-capita investment. In common with other rural authorities Cornwall has suffered reduction in central Government financial support and has economised on non-statutory obligations. There has been a consequent decrease in provision and increased costs of part-time and adult education, including recreational courses. This trend is likely to continue and can only be remedied by voluntary and community effort to help bridge the gap.

1 The Localism Act, which received Royal Assent on November 15 2011, introduced new rights and powers to allow local communities to shape new development by coming together to prepare neighbourhood plans. See www.planningportal.gov.uk/inyourarea/neighbourhood/ for an on-line explanation.

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Boscastle Playschool 2015 Photo: Tempest Photography

COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SAFETY

Summary of survey findings

 Of the three halls available, the Village Hall is the most used, followed by the Community Centre and, least used, the Methodist Hall.

 Nearly half the 210 respondents felt that the public toilets did not meet their needs.

 The Post Office, cash machine, mobile library and mobile banking services met needs of the majority, or were not needed.

 A large majority felt the rivers should be better managed.

 Respondents were largely happy with public communications services though 83 comments qualified this with most concern being around poor radio signals and mobile coverage.

 A significant number of respondents did not know how to contact the Coastguard, Coastwatch, Environment Agency or Highways Department in an emergency.

 There was some call to improve community cohesion and provide more social gatherings with suggestions covering an Easter bonnet parade, a carnival and a floral dance in the summer. As well as this there was some call for improved communication in the community alongside efforts to improve the community spirit. Minster church was also suggested as a site that could be used for the purposes of the community.

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Commentary

[See also section below on recreation and leisure]

The toilets at the top of Boscastle have gone and will not be replaced. As noted above, the Parish Council and the Boscastle Chamber of Trade and Commerce (BCTC) are working with Cornwall Council to try to secure the long term provision of Toilets and Parking. Regrettably there is no prospect of additional facilities in Boscastle against a backdrop of Cornwall Council withdrawing all funding for public toilets.

River management is the responsibility of the Environment Agency. Significant improvements have been made since the flood of 2004. F&MPC will respond to any individual concerns raised with them.

As and when planning applications for improved communications infrastructure (TV, Radio, Mobile and broadband) the Parish Council will take into account the comments received. There will inevitably be a difficult balance to be struck between the visual impact of masts and the ever increasing expectation of residents and visitors of good mobile coverage.

Note that emergency and other useful numbers are printed on the back of ‘The Blowhole’.

Music Hall Photo: Jim Castling

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RECREATION & LEISURE

Summary of survey findings

 The majority of respondents seldom use, or never use, recreational facilities at the Village Hall, Community Centre, Football field or at Camelford Leisure Centre.

 There were a wide variety of suggestions as to other recreational facilities (see full report). (There is some evidence of people being unaware of some activities that do take place.)

 Just over half of respondents felt that young people were not adequately catered for. Again a wide variety of suggestions were made together with cautions regarding noise.

 Other calls for improved facilities covered the desire for disabled access to Minster and better access to the Village Hall. .  In the harbour there was some desire for a handrail and improved disabled access to the harbour viewing point as well as improved access to cliff paths with the added suggestion of making these accessible by bicycle. There was also a repeated call for more bins in the area.

Commentary

The majority of the population seldom, or never, use any of the three village facilities – the Community Centre, Village Hall or Football Field and the same applies to the Camelford Leisure Centre. It is particularly sad that the latter is not better supported since considerable effort went into keeping this open when closure was deemed necessary by Cornwall Council.

Some things have changed since the survey was carried out and they are worth mentioning. The young people now have a skate ramp in the football field thanks to the efforts of the Parish Council. A scout group was formed one year ago and is thriving; indeed it had difficulty in locating suitable accommodation in the village. A number of concerts have now been held in Minster Church to raise funds for its upkeep and a variety of musical and theatrical events are held regularly in the Village hall which would fit under the heading of drama and entertainment and at the time of writing the annual Pantomime is scheduled to run for five evening performances.

Readers will be aware of the financial constraints affecting Cornwall Council and of widespread library closures; thus we feel that it is unrealistic to expect that funds will become available again for this purpose in the near future. There was a Youth Club in Boscastle for many years and one could no doubt be accommodated in the village once again, this depending on a suitably motivated individual coming forward to lead it. Cricket and tennis facilities are available 3 miles away in Tintagel and it is reasonable to question whether Boscastle can expect to provide these as stand- alone facilities for what is a smaller year round population. The question has also been raised of a further children’s play area in the lower village. Many long term residents will remember that the first field in Valency Valley was the setting for the Primary School Sports Day for many years before the enlargement of the car park. It was a regular community meeting place, a facility which is now

17 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan provided by Valency Lawn, by kind permission of the owner; however, this latter resource cannot be taken for granted on an indefinite basis. The Castle site will shortly be owned by F&MPC who will aim to maximise its community use within the constraints of the site. F&MPC is at present exploring with the Environment Agency whether there might be a future recreational use of the area adjacent to the lower village car park and stream, probably as a picnic area for holidaymakers.

The list of potential amenities is the work of 34 contributors only and amounts to a personal wish- list. It is unlikely that any of these potential activities will happen unless individuals take action and, with the help of like-minded individuals, transform private hopes into functioning organisations. It is apparent time and time again that the majority of activities in the village depend upon the volunteered time and energy of but a few individuals and the Village Plan group would very much welcome an increase in the number of people coming forward to take an active part in the community.

Dog fouling in the Football Field remains a matter of concern and notices have now been placed there indicating that dogs are banned from the field. However if the problem is to be fully addressed throughout the village it will require local people to ‘whistle blow’ and identify offenders. Not surprisingly many have concerns about taking this course of action. On a positive note we are pleased that the National Trust has now installed two new dual-purpose bins in the harbour area and will take responsibility for their maintenance.

It would be appropriate for F&MPC to revisit the issue of better dissemination of information on ‘what ‘s going on’ in the village. In the current world the Internet is the dominant medium; however many older people are not online, nor do they have access to it. While not discounting the use of Facebook and Twitter, traditional systems such as The Blowhole, notice boards and word of mouth will have a part to play for many years. It is worth investigating whether those individuals not on the internet could receive a cascade of information from those who are.

CHILDREN: 5-18 YEARS OLD Summary of survey findings

 Only 23 of the questionnaires returned had this section completed.

 Most children use the bus service for school, others walk or are driven. Attending after school activities is difficult for some due to transport arrangements and provision.

 Spending time with friends is important to children in the Parish, followed by use of the internet and social media and then swimming and water sports.

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Commentary

The Boscastle Playgroup has been upgraded and is a great asset to the village. It is much more affordable than similar facilities elsewhere.

Generally the parish is an attractive and relatively safe place for children to grow up in. However, at 16+ long travel distances for education is a problem which is very difficult to resolve.

CHURCH/CHAPEL

Minster Church Photo: Jim Castling

Summary of survey findings

 The overwhelming majority value the Church and the Chapel on the grounds of historic value and also think that places of worship are important to the well-being of the community.

 70 respondents attend places of worship – some outside the Parish.

 The majority believe that both the churches and the Parish Council should contribute more to up-keep of local places of worship. Just over half of respondents felt they would be happy to increase the Parish precept (rates) to help with upkeep, £5 p.a. being the most popular amount chosen.

19 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Commentary

Boscastle suffers the same problem as the rest of the country with falling church attendance and a reduction in the number of adherents, who are mainly of an older age group. The Church of England authorities have made it clear that they can no longer support all redundant churches and Minster Church is no longer required by the church community since the majority of funerals, weddings and baptisms take place at Forrabury. There have, however, been two significant developments since the survey was carried out. The Minster Community Fellowship has been formed which carries out fundraising, including concerts at the venue, to help with the financial side of maintaining the building. A second organisation, the Minster Muckers, has been formed and they look after the grounds of Minster church. While Minster remains the responsibility of the Parochial Church Council these organisations are now invaluable to its future.

There have also been changes in the structure of the Church of England parishes in the immediate area. In 2014 a ‘Breakfast Church’ was introduced at the Village Hall in Boscastle.

The survey clearly shows that a majority of respondents valued the Church and Chapel in terms of both historic value and contribution to the well-being of the community, this as a focal point in which to celebrate the rites of passage – baptisms, weddings and funerals. It has become clear that it was, for the most part, an older age group who completed the questionnaires. There is thus an age bias in our results and the majority view probably over-emphasises the inherent support of the community at large. That said, if you don’t take the time to complete a simple questionnaire, you can hardly complain when the statistics don’t reflect your point of view. More detailed questioning revealed a wide variety of reasons underpinning these opinions but in the free text commentary it was clear that a small number felt that ‘religious buildings’ were not the responsibility of the wider community.

It is clear that there is greater than 50% support for the F&MPC providing financial support to both Church and Chapel. F&MPC do already contribute to grass-cutting at Forrabury Church and also make occasional donations. Our recommendation is that the results of the survey should be taken into consideration, in addition to possible increase in the precept (i.e. parish rates) when future applications for financial assistance are received and match funding arrangements should also be on the agenda.

PARISH COUNCIL & NATIONAL TRUST

Summary of survey findings

 There was an almost unanimous view that the historic and unique aspect of the area is very important.

 104 respondents believe that the Parish Council carries out its duties adequately, 103 disagreed and 16 did not know. 32 people commented further – many comments centring on the need for more powers.

20 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

 Respondents who felt that the Parish Council did indeed need to extend its powers into all five areas in the following order of importance: 1. Village maintenance 2. Car parking 3. Toilets 4. Planning permission 5. Traffic management

 79 respondents agreed that the National Trust works within the village to the mutual benefit of both. However, 56 felt this not to be the case (84 entered ‘don’t know’). 62 people commented further, only 8 positively. Criticisms of the Trust included lack of consultation, handling of historic issues, management of footpaths (especially across the Stitches), and generally having a stronger interest in tourists and fundraising than in the local community.

Commentary (Photo below by Jim Castling)

The Parish Council (F&MPC) has traditionally acted as a conduit of opinion in local matters, especially planning and development, rather than adopting an important executive function. However, partly as a result of the Localism Act which gives communities a greater say in local development and Cornwall’s Unitary authority structure which advocates devolution of powers, local councils are taking on new responsibilities for services which Cornwall Council no longer supports, such as libraries, public conveniences and environmental maintenance. In the future, as well as managing a larger budget, members of the parish council will be required to exercise a higher level of commitment and professional knowledge to cope with these additional demands.

The National Trust’s charitable purpose can be summarised as “to preserve and protect historic places and spaces - forever, for everyone”. Within the parish the Trust is a major landowner and looks after listed buildings, wildlife sites, historic structures, paths, tracks, farmland and the harbour. It makes a significant contribution to the character of the area by using traditional materials to maintain its buildings, the harbour wall, breakwaters and weather vane. Within the countryside the Trust aims to maintain and improve the landscape, archaeology and wildlife.

In recent years the Boscastle Visitor centre was taken over by the Trust when Cornwall Council withdrew funding. This has been of benefit to visitors, accommodation businesses and residents. The Trust supports many local events.

21 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

The National Trust is a charity so has to generate its own income. It does this through membership and through its enterprises such as the shop, cafe, holiday cottages and rents. The income goes towards the Trust’s work in the parish and also supports work in other areas which are unable to generate their own income.

The Steering Committee shared the survey findings with the Trust management. The Trust recognise that decisions it makes do not always please everybody but hope to be able to share the reasoning and to explain their work through the Blowhole, social media and personal conversations. An ‘open morning’ is being considered.

SUMMARY: THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESS OF THE PARISH:

Strengths

Advantages of natural attractions: location, scenery, climate. Fairly prosperous indigenous residents, successful businesses helped by reputation as a tourist destination with good client base. Generally cohesive community, low crime rate and social problems, good preschool and primary education

Weaknesses

Over-reliance on single product, tourism, to generate jobs, low wage economy and lack of professional opportunities, long distance from community services, poor public road and rail transport, high proportion of second homes, lack of affordable housing, farming industry dependent on government/EU subsidies.

Opportunities

Improvement in transport links, especially trunk roads. Development of local enterprise/commerce/industry. Increase in affordable housing will encourage families to settle in the area.

Threats

Major tourist industry subject to economic turndown and competition from other providers, increase in absentee ownership encouraged by government and financial investment trends, lack of opportunity for young people leading to emigration from area, further tourism development harming environment.

Concluding remarks from Ann Knight

Today the village is bigger, or at least there are more houses but fewer full time residents. It is no longer centred around Bridge and Quaytown. Reliance on visitors and day trippers does not support the school, the churches, the essential shops or public transport and people travel to nearby towns to shop. Lack of affordable housing and a low paid tourist industry make it difficult in the extreme for our children to remain living in the village and as a result many leave Cornwall altogether. If the

22 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan loss of housing stock for residential use continues Boscastle will become like many other Cornish villages where there are few full time residents.

Boscastle remains a stunningly beautiful place. It's particularity lies in its abiding and diverse sense of place. Away from the harbour area there are many unspoilt historic buildings and many of them are listed. That continuous manor workforce had a distinctive style of building, often re-using materials from other much older buildings. It is often said that you can recognise a Boscastle window or door without the benefit of being shown the whole building.

The surrounding coastline and countryside is largely unspoilt, valued as an area of outstanding natural beauty. The history and beauty of Boscastle is what makes it so attractive to holiday makers and residents alike. It is unique. The majority of people hold the view that we should try to ensure that the historic environment is not altered out of all recognition to its historic past. Changes should be made sympathetically and we should consider very carefully before adding modern structures, inappropriate ornamentation , out of context seating, spa stone boundaries, and catalogue street furniture that alters the unique atmosphere. You need only look at the changes that have been made to Quaytown and Bridge, compare it to Fore Street and High Street to see that, accumulated over time, such additions and changes alter the perception of the history of the Boscastle and its people.

The Unitary Council and their planners need to consider the historic environment in every decision they take or risk losing it entirely. Furthermore the knowledge of local people should be respected and their views listened to since they have a valuable contribution to make..It is essential to remember that Boscastle is not just a cluster of buildings. Its genetic footprint goes beyond the built environment. It is the sum of its parts and past. That includes its inhabitants whose understanding and love of their environment has made it what it is today. What is loved by so many.and is best expressed in the Latin words genius loci and translates as the spirit of the place.

ACTION

The Steering Group have now completed their work and will be disbanded. This document reflects the views of the community and will now be handed to F&MPC for consideration and to assist their future decision making. We recommend that interested individuals attend F&MPC meetings and utilise the allotted Public Participation time to promote their views on the document.

23 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

RESULTS OF PARISH SURVEY The following sections summarise the results of the survey. As stated on page 1, when this survey was initially conducted 422 questionnaires were successfully delivered to members of the Parish community. Additionally 156 letters were sent to those with a residence in the village but who did not appear on the local electoral register for the area. The steering committee have attempted to be as inclusive as possible for the purposes of gaining a representative view of life in the Parish from as many voices likely to have an interest in the Parish as possible. 230 questionnaires were returned and 5 requests, as a result of the mailshot, were made for a questionnaire. This report is based upon the findings of these 235. Following completion of phase one (the collation of data) and completion of phase two (the completion of this report) 5 more questionnaires were returned that unfortunately have not been included in this report due to time constraints.

Analysis was carried out by Jonathan Stirrup to ensure independence from the Steering Group’s personal views.

Boscastle Harbour Photo: Jim Castling

24 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

1. ABOUT YOUR HOUSEHOLD The questionnaire sought to ascertain a number of key details regarding the households in the Parish, opening with whether this was the permanent residence for the recipients of the questionnaire. Of all 235 returned questionnaires, 221 confirmed that they were permanent residents meaning that 94% of respondents are living in the Parish. Four respondents confirmed that they were not permanent residents, while the remaining 10 were left this area blank.

In terms of the age ranges and gender of respondents the following tables should demonstrate the age range splits and gender splits:

70 60 50 Male age range and number 40 30 20 10 0 0-18 19-30 31-59 60-74 75+ The majority of men living in the Parish are between the age of 31 and 74 which is also the case for female respondents. Furthermore, it is interesting to note that there are more men in this combined age range. In total there are 171 men and 106 women, but of course, this can only be figured against the number of respondents to the questionnaire and is not a reliable measure of the number, age range or gender of all those living in the Parish.

50

40 30 Female age range and number 20

10

0 0-18 19-30 31-59 60-74 75+

25 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

The questionnaire also sought to address the length of time respondents had 4 lived in the Parish with the majority 6 0-2 years group having lived here for over twenty 28 years. In response to the question over 10 3-5 years as to how the individual respondent and 6-10 years their family came to be in the Parish the 11-20 years majority of respondents left this blank, 20 but opted to provide a qualifying remark 20+ years largely demonstrating that they either Years in Boscastle Parish held the area in high regard due to the community spirit or the beauty of the surrounding countryside; wanted to provide a better lifestyle for themselves or their children; moved for work or to set up a business; one respondent commented that they wanted to ‘escape the rat race’2 which was echoed by at least one other respondent.

70 60 Born in parish 50 Relatives in Connection to Parish 40 area 30 Retired 20 10 Work 0 Born in Relatives Retired Work Blank Blank parish in area

As the chart shows, the majority moved here for reasons other than those given or as well as those given. The general trend across all categories, however, centres on the attractiveness of the area and quality of life offered in North Cornwall.

2 Questionnaire #2

26 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

2. HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES The issues raised around services in the local area largely focussed on the need and absence of a nearby dentist with 86 households (36% of replies) commenting that they were either not satisfied, or only sometimes satisfied regarding dentist provision, while 39% replied that they were happy with their dentist provision. In the comments, replies focussed on either the absence or the distance needed to travel, especially as there is no longer a service provider in Camelford. Comments revealed that there were instances of individuals and households using the service in Wadebridge, but also travelling to Launceston and Bude – one reply pointed out that the nearest service was a 40-mile round trip. A number of replies encouraged the opening of a service in the Parish. Twenty-four per cent of responses stated that they had never needed the dentist or had not responded.

On the subject of the Doctor’s Surgery most replies (83.8%) indicated that they 3% 5.10% Are you satisfied with: were satisfied with the service with one Surgery services 0% comment stating ‘We have a good 8% Never needed 3 surgery’, however a number of Satisfied comments trended on the issue of No appointments and waiting times with a few comments on improvements 83.80% Sometimes suggesting weekend opening and one No answer provided comment on better times to suit those working during the daytime.

There were also some comments on the issue of parking at the surgery either not being adequate, or in one case not easy to access for disabled users as well as attention drawn to the steps needing improvement with the suggestion of a handrail from Gunpool Lane. One reply called for more First Responders, while there was reference to a need to develop Midwives in the area and the role of Health Visitors as well as Call-Outs for the elderly, one person commenting that at the age of 86 it would be ‘helpful’;4 one reply asked for a mobile NHS service for breast screening, while two replies suggested transport to hospital be provided; three responses reflected an unhappiness with Social Services.

With In regards to hospital services, seven responses commented on the Are you satisfied with: Hospital services distance to a hospital. Those that 8.50% Never needed commented on hospital services all 19% commented in the negative, citing Satisfied 14% waiting times, travel time, poor care No and in one case mis-diagnosis, though the data from respondents shows that Sometimes

4.60% 53% No answer provided 3 Questionnaire #227 4 Questionnaire #63

27 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan two-thirds are satisfied or have never needed the service.

1% Are you satisfied with: Ambulance 1% 10.60% Alongside this a number of replies Never needed demonstrated unhappiness with the time it takes for ambulances to attend call-outs, Satisfied 32.60% with the same issue affecting the out-of- No hours doctor,; however data shows that

Sometimes respondents are largely happy with the out- 46% of-hours service and happy with the No answer provided ambulance service.

Are you satisfied with: Out of hours 15% Never needed 4.70% Satisfied 8.50% 49% No 22% Sometimes

No answer provided

There was occasional call for paediatric services provided locally, or at the surgery, and seven responses in the negative or ‘sometimes’ regarding chiropody with comments suggesting private services are in use for this.

There were five respondents either dissatisfied or only ‘sometimes’ satisfied with the District Nurse, with one respondent commenting that they could not pin down an appointment. Twelve replies seemed unhappy with facilities available to them regarding disability or special needs, though three responses in the negative did not declare a disability or special need in the household and so may have misread the question. Those declaring a disability or special need in the household commented, regarding how to improve the provision for them, that improvement was needed in order to access public facilities; disabled parking in Camelford was a concern; improved access to NT paths; improvement to care services5 as well as a need for specialists at the surgery. Of the 235 replies one respondent commented that services were under-funded6.

Forty-eight per cent of replies commented on why they had said ‘No’ or ‘Sometimes’ while the remainder were left blank; forty-two per cent of replies offered a suggestion to improve

5 Questionnaire #98 6 Questionnaire #34

28 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan services in the Parish, with one person suggesting ‘singing and creativity’7 and another called for a ‘caring for all’ style scheme.8

3. ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY The questionnaire also addressed concerns over the local environment, pollution and how parishioners viewed sources of energy and their use. Of those who responded to the questionnaire on this matter (four questionnaire responses gave no response to this section) 75 felt that they were concerned or affected by light pollution, while 154 felt that this was not an issue for them or were not affected. Those who felt concerned or affected qualified their response with 62 stating their issue was overwith street lighting, with 8 replying that house lighting was their issue while 2 held Light Pollution Concerns 2 their issue was with over shop lighting. Three responses that had stated light 8 pollution was not an issue for them did Street lighting state that either street lighting or shop lighting was a concern. In all, for those House lighting concerned by this topic street lighting 62 is the main area of contention, though Shop lighting for the majority of respondents the topic is not a concern.

In an effort to gauge the views of the Parish on how street lighting can be managed in Lighting Management order to save electricity or reduce light 29 Timed lighting pollution three options were offered. These Dimming were timed lighting, dimming or alternative 87 38 lights turned off (as well as this, a mixture Alternate lights of these options was given comment). Left as it is 14 Respondents were also given the option to 8 Mixture leave the street lights as they are. Twenty- nine respondents indicated that they would support timed lighting; thirty-eight supported the dimming of street lighting; twelve indicated they were in favour of alternate lights being put into use; fourteen felt they would rather have street lights left as they were, but 87 (the overall majority) indicated a mixture of these systems was their preference. All in all there were 166 indications in favour of the issue of light pollution, in the form of street lighting, being tackled in some way.

This section also sought to measure the concerns that members of the Parish may have regarding the spread of domestic and commercial renewable energies in the form of

7 Questionnaire #128 8 Questionnaire #213

29 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan turbines and solar, as well as nuclear power. These three areas were a joint concern for 35 respondents, while 88 felt concerned by both domestic and commercial renewables. When the responses over domestic and commercial renewables are separated, however, it shows that the majority are concerned with commercial enterprise in this field rather than domestic with 107 registering that domestic is not a concern for them and 81 registering that commercial is not a concern for them (thirty offered no comment in the positive or negative columns regarding domestic while 24 offered no comment regarding commercial).

150 Domestic concerns

100 and commercial concerns towards the 50 spread of renewable 0 energies Domestic Commercial

Concerns over the spread of nuclear power was a split issue with only 7 responses taking the majority on this question into the ‘not concerned’ margin, while 48 respondents left this subject blank.

The survey also questioned respondents’ concerns regarding noise from vehicles, dog fouling, dumping of litter/waste as well as concerns over air quality. Although a number of respondents had multiple concerns across these four areas, the issue of dog fouling was the largest agreed concern for members of the Parish with plentiful comment on the matter. Of the 127 comments regarding specific concerns in relation to the four topic areas, 90 comments made reference to dog fouling. Comments ranged from the presence of it as well as the seeming increase, the absence of bins to deposit waste was an issue (whether it was dog waste or other) in the harbour area or along the path from the harbour to the stitches. Comments made note of waste bags left on pathways, hedgerows and the need for increased frequency in street cleaning and regular emptying of public bins. One respondent also pointed out a health concern regarding dog mess: TOXOCARA CANIS9 (dog roundworm) which can be spread from dogs to people via infected faeces. Another respondent suggested naming and shaming people who fail to clear their dog’s mess from the area.10 Alongside this there were some comments on the noise of car exhausts and the anti-social aspect of motors left to idle as well as chimney and bonfire smoke causing issues for some, particularly in summer time.

When given the opportunity to expand on any concerns regarding environmental issues not covered in this section of the questionnaire 54 respondents took the opportunity to do so. The issue of dog waste was further commented on with added suggestions of bins along the river, coastal path and harbour area. Overall, the breadth of comment was quite diverse with some comments extending the concept of environment into the feel or look of the village

9 Questionnaire #126 10 Questionnaire #146

30 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan with in rregards to commercialisation and the proliferation of signage in the harbour area. The debris from run off, whether it is mud or leaf and branch, was an issue that was repeated a number of times and the consequent blocking of drains and gutters – on this subject one respondent added their concerns regarding flooding in the area, others also commented on the lack of hedgerow maintenance as an issue. One respondent called for a community orchard11 while others commented on the impact to country views caused by the increasing number of turbines in the area. Parking on the double yellows on New Road was a cause for comment for a small number as was the speed of traffic along New Road and the road to Tintagel out of the village. There was also comment on the impact to infrastructure that new builds have, as well as the impact that empty homes can have on the area.

4. TRANSPORT AND ACCESS In the Transport and Access section the questionnaire’s enquiries were aimed at ascertaining how transport was used and what for, as well as how areas related to this could be improved. From 235 respondents 210 replied in the affirmative as to owning a car, 15 replied that they did not own a car and of the remainder that offered no response, 8 offered no response at all to any other section of this page. In terms of how people travel to services and for social purposes, the overwhelming majority make use of a car; however a significant number noted that they walk to the doctor’s surgery. There was evidence of a range of other methods used to get about, however these were significantly marginal when measured against the frequency of journeys made using a car with only 17 respondents making use of public transport. Thirteen respondents replied that they make use of the community bus with a number of users of this service commenting that they were either happy with the service or that the service needed to be more frequent and that the use of it needed to be improved.

On the subject of road quality and hazards there was an even response as to whether the Parish roads and lanes were well kept, exactly 110 respondents felt that they were well kept, while exactly 110 felt the contrary was the case, leaving 15 who did not commit a response on the subject; in regards to hazards, responses showed that 135 respondents felt there were hazards connected to the roads and lanes, while 80 felt that this was not the case and 22 declined to comment.

Of the 135 who indicated that they had an issue with the roads, 133 left a qualifying comment. From the 133 who commented on various issues to do with hazards, 45 generated a common concern over parking outside the doctor’s surgery, pointing out how dangerous this becomes and suggesting additional parking on waste ground nearby, behind Boscastle Tyres and the garage, a roundabout at the crossroads or some form of traffic calming such as road humps or lower speed limits.

As well as this some of these comments also attached concerns regarding parking on the double yellows on New Road and the danger this can create for passing traffic and pedestrians. One comment requested a year round residents’ permit for this stretch of road.

11 Questionnaire #170

31 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

The danger that high-sided vehicles such as lorries and coaches present was also given comment in regards to this road.

There were almost as many comments regarding potholes in the village, with 35 of the 133 comments making reference to this problem and the areas in and around Boscastle that need addressing:

 Langford Meadows  The road into Lesnewth  Tubbs Ground  Potters Lane  Paradise Lane  The road to Treworld  Green Lane

Other concerns covered the debris such as leaves and fallen green material that is left and not cleared up, adding to flood and drainage issues; on top of this the mud on roads around field entrances left by heavy vehicles was a concern for respondents.

When asked if parking was a concern, only 80 of 235 respondents raised this as a concern for them, with the majority not raising this as an issue for them. A further 78 comments were added in the final comments invitation regarding parking in the Parish. Parking around the surgery was again raised, as well as the limited parking available to users of the surgery. One comment suggested staff park their cars under the ash tree by the old garage.12 A number of respondents commented on the parking offered in the harbour and suggested additional parking at the top of the village. On top of this a number of suggestions were made aimed at addressing parking for locals in the main car park covering either the reduction of the yearly fee for a permit, concessions for locals, or offering 30 minutes to 1 hour of free parking to shoppers. There was comment around parking connected to the Post Office and how difficult this can be without fee- free parking nearby.

Additionally there was some mention of the number of cars parked around holiday residences and suggestions that holiday home owners should make users aware that parking is limited and discourage more than one car per household.

5. CRIME AND DISORDER In this area 8 respondents did not fill in the page and so, out of 227 respondents only 4 registered that they were concerned with the level of crime in the Parish, however, only one attributed this to anything specific, citing a burglary by young people at a neighbour’s house. The other response called for more visual policing. For the remaining respondents crime was not a concern. Out of 208 respondents regarding awareness of how to contact the local community police officer 126, while 92 did not.

12 Questionnaire #49

32 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

17 Do you know how to Yes contact your No 92 community police 126 No response officer?

When asked if residents felt safe in their own home, only one respondent replied that this was not the case, but offered no qualifying remark against this. When asked if residents felt safe outside the home the same respondent added they did not and another responded that they also did not and later added that their car had been damaged, despite these two separate responses residents indicated, overwhelmingly, that they felt safe in the Parish.

This section also covered concerns regarding anti-social behaviour and of the respondents 35 indicated that they had been affected by this issue with 31 qualifying this with a comment. Comments regarding anti-social behaviour ranged from damage to parked cars in car parks and on driveways, noisy children or children vandalising local amenities, noise from the local pubs and people walking home from the pub causing damage or creating noise. Three respondents made reference to theft and breaking into properties, while others cited noise from local dogs barking and fly-tipping.

In terms of how happy residents are with the access to, and response from police services 15 felt that they were not happy, while the remainder felt happy with this. The over-riding concern for the 28 who chose to answer this section was the remoteness of police in the area and the lack of visual, or regular, policing in the village and local area as well as response times and the addressing of issues raised by residents. One respondent commented that after reporting a firearm discharge nothing was done.13

13 Questionnaire #213

33 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

6. HOUSING On the subject of housing, opinions Is a range of housing important and comments were varied and wide for a thriving community? ranging. For 74% of respondents a range of available housing was an Yes important matter in order for the 6% community to thrive. When asked 11% No whether second homes or holiday 9% lets were a threat to the Parish the majority of respondents answered that Don't know 74% this was indeed the case with 62% of replies agreeing that second homes No answer were a threat and 41% agreeing provided holiday lets were.

It is worth noting that the combined Are holiday lets a threat? response of ‘No’, ‘Don’t know’ and ‘No answer given’ were in the majority 15% Yes No regarding holiday lets. 12% 40.90% Don't know

No answer provided 32%

When asked to comment on these areas, 65 respondents took the time to reply as to their concerns, or make clearer their position. Of the 65 respondents all made points against the presence of second homes, with some differentiating between the benefits of second homes and holiday lets. In all but one case respondents held negative views towards second homes with one respondent referring to both holiday homes and second homes as ‘a blessing and a curse’.14 The one reply in the positive made the comment that second homes and holiday lets add to local income, but also push up house prices.15

Respondents cited issues such as poor maintenance on empty homes negatively impacting the village aesthetic; the point that second homes don’t add to village life and instead make it a ‘ghost town’ was made numerous times. One respondent shared their concern that second homes and, presumably a reduced local population, would negatively impact school services as well as other services in the area. There was a suggestion that second home owners pay the same rate of council tax on these properties, but primarily it seems to be the degradation of social cohesion and village life that concerns respondents the most with some also touching on the issue that second homes push up prices and make local housing unaffordable for local people.

14 Questionnaire #18 15 Questionnaire #112

34 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Although holiday lets and second homes were occasionally lumped together as to the cause of local concerns, a good deal of replies made the distinction that holiday lets provide an income to the local area, either through use of local facilities or employment of staff to run and manage these properties. There was one suggestion that holiday lets could be used as short term lets, presumably to off-set the issue of housing for local people. 16

When invited to expand on reasons for replying ‘no’ to the questions over whether these aspects of housing were a threat, 62 comments were made by respondents. The large majority also pointed out that holiday lets encourage tourism and generate a local income, with some comments pointing out that this is only seasonal. There was a general positivity from those who commented regarding holiday lets, with some making the point a second time that second homes are a different issue regarding what they bring to the community with one respondent asking that the number of holiday lets be limited in the Parish.

Lastly, on the issue of whether or not the Parish needs more homes the respondents were reasonably split down the middle with those who believe it does being in the majority by 2%.

Does the Parish need more 3.80% homes? Yes

No 21.80% 38% Don't know 36% No answer provided

What type of housing is required? A number of respondents also 90 83 80 qualified their thoughts on 70 where their housing priorities 60 49 50 37 38 lay (see right). 40 30 20 20 11 10 4 4 0

16 Questionnaire #142

35 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

7. BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT

In this section six respondents did not complete any entries and so the data here is based on 229 responses rather than 235. Out of the 229, 82 respondents reported that they work within the Parish with 14 of these also working outside the Parish. 109 of the respondents reported that they were retired with only 37 working solely outside the Parish.

37 respondents work outside the parish, 82 do some or all of their work within it.

The number of respondents reporting that they work in the Parish here is less the number reporting that they also work outside

Responses to this question also demonstrate that 119 of respondents are working, while 109 are retired giving a reasonably even split between the two groups.

There were forty-five responses qualifying that their work is part time, with three retirees also reporting they worked part-time from 4 to 30 hours per week.

Of the few comments made by business owners living in the Parish regarding how expansion or employment could be encouraged remarks noted that free parking for locals and those working in the Parish would help as well as better broadband. On top of this it was pointed out that there are a number of businesses offering the same services in the area.

When asked whether respondents would like to see an increase in light industry and commercial growth in the area the 39 responded that they would, while 68 offered no response and 126 indicated that they would not like to see this in the Parish.

Yes 39 Would you like to see more light 68 No industry or commercial growth in the area? 126 No response

36 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

When asked what sort of industry members of the Parish would encourage 57 questionnaires offered a comment on the matter. Light industry was the overall preference here with suggestions for small start-ups such as web based businesses, or local businesses setting up and employing local and young people. Workshops for local independent trades were encouraged with one suggestion that starter homes might have some form of workshop or offices attached to the build.

A florist, butchers and fishmonger or increased fishing trade was suggested by a number of respondents as well as a gym, nursery, or some form of food production.

There was a trend in the comments towards sharing that shared a concern for the maintaining of the area as it is alongside possible business growth, with a minority remarking that there is enough here as it is.

When asked of possible dangers to local business 94 respondents chose to comment on this subject. The Spar franchise in the village was a clear concern, as well as the farm shop. On top of this there was some concern over the viability of the Post Office with some drawing a direct threat to Cornish Stores presented by Spar, as well as the point that a number of businesses in the harbour offer either similar services or similar products; respondents also shared a concern over the increasing use of internet food shopping or buying from outside the Parish by visitors and locals.

Comments also suggested parking charges for local shoppers being dropped or reduced for a limited time to allow the use of the harbour for shopping locally, as well as this there was a general suggestion to encourage locals to shop locally rather than outside the Parish. Finally, those that commented regarding their dependency on good internet connection largely responded that this was important to them.

8. EDUCATION In this section 122 respondents took the opportunity to leave comments on the pre-school facilities in the Parish. Of the 122 only three replied that they were unsatisfied with preschool facilities putting satisfaction of this service well into the majority.

Preschool facilities 3 One respondent advised that they were unhappy with Primary provision and another that there Satisfied was not enough choice for under-threes.

119 Dissatisfied

37 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

On the subject of primary facilities, of 125 respondents in this category 4 replied that they Primary facilities 4 were dissatisfied, but only three qualified this by stating that there was no hall or field, that Satisfied the school was too small and the location an issue. Again, the majority indicated they were 121 satisfied, with the remainder choosing not to Dissatisfied comment.

In response to whether members of the Parish were satisfied with adult education facilities 117 respondents chose to reply with 32 comments qualifying their position demonstrating that residents are largely dissatisfied with adult services, but satisfied with children’s services.

The general thrust of dissatisfaction centred on the lack of adult educational facilities in the area and the distance to travel to nearby providers,; alongside this a number commented that they were unaware of any adult FE facilities in the Parish, while one respondent requested ‘singing and creativity’.17

In question five, residents were asked whether any member of their family had special educational needs and then whether these needs were met in the Parish. It should be noted that due to an error in the question’s wording there was some confusion on how to respond to this.

From 235 respondents 4 indicated they had a member of the family with special educational needs, but only two indicated in any direction (which was negative) as to whether these needs were met by the Parish. The only qualifying response to this was that there was no SEN provision in the Parish, but there was no further expansion to comments.

Finally, when invited to expand views on any of the areas under inquiry 7 comments were made. Three of these identified issues around primary education and the falling numbers, with one suggestion of bussing children to Tintagel and merging this school with Boscastle CP.

A separate comment recognised the importance of attracting young families to the area and one commented that ‘Boscastle is a good school’.18 In terms of other services one comment highlighted the need for support for new mothers and babies in the area; another complained that it is nearly impossible to gain higher qualifications in the area and lastly a centralised system that could inform residents of local events and activities would be a good service for residents.

17 Questionnaire #128 18 Questionnaire #154

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Raft race 2015 Photo: Audley Jarvis

9. COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SAFETY

A range of facilities are available to the Parish residents and this section attempts to gauge the use of present services and possible needs in the area regarding safety.

As far as the use of the Community Centre, Village Hall and the Methodist Hall is concerned the following table should demonstrate the frequency of use for each property.

Community Centre Village Hall 120 140 104 123 100 120 100 80 67 80 60 60 45 40 25 40 33 20 10 20 8 1 3 0 0

39 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

The use of the three spaces demonstrates that the Methodist Hall Village Hall (total: 167) has the most use, with 100 91 the Community Centre (total: 140) not far behind 83 90 while the Methodist Hall is clearly used the least 80 70 by local residents answering the questionnaire 60 (total: 91). 50 40 30 20 4 4 10 0 0

113 users of these facilities opted to qualify their use of the spaces with specifics ranging from meetings of different groups such as the Parish Council, WI, British Legion, NCI and BCTC meetings to fetes, auctions, jumble/table top sales. The spaces are also reportedly used for eye tests and diabetes checks, exhibitions, voting, parties and discos. As well as this they are used for badminton, table tennis, shows, yoga, quizzes, Cubs, Scouts, short mat bowls, tea and coffee, breakfast church, wakes, painting, craft and snooker.

When asked about whether public services met needs, other than the public toilets, the majority felt that the post office, mobile PUBLIC Never library, mobile bank and cash machines SERVICES Yes No Needed met needs, though as third reported that Public Toilets 60 101 53 the mobile bank did not. It is worth noting that a larger majority recorded Post Office 182 35 6 that they had never needed either of the Mobile Library 61 5 133 mobile services offered in the Parish. Mobile Bank 53 26 121 Cash Machines 119 27 62

In regards to safety in the area, the questionnaire sought to ascertain concern over river management. When asked about concerns regarding river management in view of recent flooding, a large majority agreed that they felt local rivers should be managed to a higher standard in the future as shown in the pie chart below.

40 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Should rivers be managed to a higher standard?

26 Yes

61 No 148 No response

Respondents were asked to comment on how they felt about communication in the Parish. The table below shows the level of happiness on four areas of communication. The results show that, largely, people are happy with the services, however 83 comments were made to qualify areas of unhappiness with these services. The greater majority of these complained of poor radio signal and mobile network coverage and lack of reliability, with occasional comment on the speed of broadband services and television signal.

PUBLIC COMMUNICATION Yes No No response

Radio 139 62 34

Mobile Telephone 134 57 42 Television 177 16 42

Internet 146 26 63

Finally, in this section, the questionnaire sought to ascertain levels of awareness regarding how to contact several emergency services. Respondents were directed to check an issue of The Blowhole for contact details for any of the following services should they not already have these. Although there were EMERGENCY significant numbers of people SERVICES Yes No No response reporting that they did not know Coast Guard 183 25 27 how to contact these services, notably the National coast watch, National coast watch 137 67 31 Environment Agency and Highways Environment agency 152 55 29 Department, largely, members of Police 198 14 23 the Parish felt that they did know how to contact these services. Highways Department 149 58 28

41 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

10. RECREATION & LEISURE In the effort to establish which recreation services are most in use, members of the Parish were asked to record how frequently they made use of the Community Centre, Village hall, Football field and the sports centre in Camelford.

120

100

80 Community 60 Centre 40

20

0 More than Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Seldom Never once a week

120

100

80 Village Hall 60

40

20

0 More than Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Seldom Never once a week

180 160 140 120 100 Football Field 80 60 40 20 0 More than Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Seldom Never once a week

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140 120 100

80 Camelford Camelford

60 Sports Centre Sports Centre 40

20 0 More than Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Seldom Never once a week

The data seems to show that the football field is the least in use, out of the four faciities, by those who replied to the questionnaire and that, on the whole, the four facilities are either never used or seldom used.

Respondents were asked to comment on the facilities they would like to see in the Parish and 34 respondents took the opportunity to offer suggestions, listed below:

 Gym/Outdoor gym  Yoga  Keep fit classes  Pilates and exercise classes  Netball  Table tennis and badminton  Cricket, tennis and bowls  Skate park  Better playground facilities  Youth provision  Kayak club  Walking club  Bridge club  Cinema in the village hall  Theatre  Library  Day Centre  Dance activities  Concerts  Bingo and quiz nights  Knitting  Singing

43 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Finally, there was a suggestion that all activities and details be listed in The Blowhole with details on how to book facilities in the Parish.

When asked whether respondents felt young people were adequaltey catered for in the Parish 11 respondents took the majority into ‘No’. As can be seen in the bulleted suggestions above there was occasional comment on what 70 Yes should be improved, or what could be considered for the younger members of the Parish. 81 No The following list covers the full range of comments, but it should be noted that the primary trend was that of the suggestion for a youth club of some kind. Alongside this there was warning of noise, and frustration of a lack of space for young people.

 Outdoor activities  Recreation club  Youth club  Bike paths  Skate park  Transport/supervision to Camelford Sports Centre  Play area at the bottom of the village  Swings and slides for pre-teens  Pop in centre for youth  Summer clubs  Music  Sports  Wildlife conservation  Bowling alley  Scout group  Choirs  Disco  Craft  Gardening  Use of Community Centre for sports  Film club

44 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

When asked whether recreational facilties need improving 73% of those who responded to this question agreed that they did with 24 offering areas for improvement, some of which echoed earlier calls for a skate park and a youth club.

Do recreational facilities need 37 Yes improving? No 102

Access to the football field and other facilities was an issue, as was the use that dog walkers make of the football field, presumably due to fouling. Repairs to the playground equipment was encouraged and the need to update some of this equipment. Room to play bowls at the back of the Community Centre was requested as was a cinema, or at least projection equipment. Additional seating around the harbour was also requested and the need for repairs to the Village hall. Other comments covered a desire to see tennis and squash available in the area and an improved method of publicising what is available as well as the availability of activities throughout the year.

Additionally there was one suggestion of a bandstand, much like the Padstow bandstand, somewhere in the village; fishing trips was also a request by one respondent in order to keep the harbour busy; there was the encouragement for increased and regular maintenance as well as making the Community Centre available to younger people. One respondent commented that they felt they would rather not see new facilities for young people as ‘scenery and peacefullness is more important’.19

Boscastle Community Centre Photo: Chris Jarvis

1919 Questionnaire #159

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11. CHILDREN: 5-18 YEARS OLD This area of the questionnaire was not widely tackled by respondents, presumably due to the absence of children in the household, but 23 respondents did provide data and comment demonstrating that children in the area attend primary schools in Boscastle, Tintagel, Delabole and Marhamchurch; children of secondary age attend Sir James Smith, Budehaven Community School, Plymouth High School for Girls and Devonport High School for Boys; those children attending further education institutions make use of Truro College and St Austell College.

Answers given to transport methods showed that, largely, children make use of bus services, but 6 some drive and some walk. Twenty-five percent of respondents indicated that they have difficulty attending after-school activities, while Bus 8 75% do not. All those who indicated they have 20 Car difficulty also make use of schools outside of the Walk Parish. Reasons given for this difficulty agreed that transport was the key issue.

Children returning data on their interest in activities shared the following from the options available:

Internet Friends Drama/Arts Music Scouts/Guides Other sports Football Skateboarding Swimming 0 5 10 15 20 25

The information provided shows that spending time with friends is important to children in the Parish, followed by use of the internet and social media and then swimming and water sports. When asked to comment on what activities children would like to see available in the Parish, the following was indicated by respondents:

o A skate park o Youth club o Athletics/Sports club o Dance/ballet o Arcade o Swimming o Cooking club

46 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

12. CHURCH/CHAPEL In this area of the questionnaire information on the use of these facilities, and their importance to members of the Parish, was assessed.

On the question of how many respondents felt that they valued the church and chapel on the grounds of their historic value an overwhemling 219 agreed that they did, with 13 offering no view and 3 actively disagreeing.

3 Do you value these historic 13 buildings?

Yes

No

219 No response

When asked if respondents attended a place of worship 70 replied that they did with 22 indicating their place of worship as:

 Forrabury Church  Minster Church  Boscastle Methodist  Souls Harbour (Camelford)  Bossiney Methodist  Tintagel Methodist  Tintagel Catholic Church  Bude  Polzeath Methodist  Wadebridge  Bodmin

Some clarification was given as to how many from the household attended each church and some attended a variety of the above churches.

Respondents were further prompted to agree or disagree as to whether places of worship are important to the well-being of the community 194 agreed that they were, while 16 felt they were not and 25 gave no response.

47 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Additionally, respondents were asked to qualify in what regard these buildings are important to their families. The column chart below displays the responses:

In what way is the Church/Chapel important to your family? 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Worship A quiet An historic Weddings Funerals Baptism Music and place place Social

The questionnaire also sought to determine how respondents felt about whether the Parish Council or Church should contribute more towards the up-keep of local places of worship. The majority felt that both the Church and Parish Council should contribute, though there was some doubling up occurring between the ‘yes’ option and ‘both’. However it was clear that the majority position was that both should contribute to the upkeep.

CONTRIBUTOR Yes No Church 93 24 Parish Council 52 54 Both 104 19

The questionnaire further attempted to gauge whether respondents felt they could support an increase in the precept (local Parish Council rate) to help with the upkeep. The amount suggested is per household per annum and the number of responses is shown below.

Amount Number £5 51 £10 34 £15 23 Respondents 108

The number of respondents implies that just under half feel that they are happy to increase the precept by an amount, with the majority choosing the £5 option.

48 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Finally, a number of respondents added an expansive comment on the issue of the precept and funding – their comments are listed below. There were several comments on the issue of Minster and its financial needs and several general comments regarding maintenance and upkeep.

 Minster Church needs funding  Church needs to connect with all people and move with the times  It’s part of our heritage and our future  Governing Church bodies need to invest in property upkeep  Would like to contribute, but finances are difficult  Need better management of existing funds  Ring fence spending  Not enough done by locals to support church  Households may find the PC rate difficult – could charities support?  The Church is not supported  Happy to contribute  If precept is increased the Church should match  Parish must agree how money is spent  Link precept contribution to council tax band  Parish Council needs to take responsibility for redundant churches  Churches are a burden  Churches can well afford to pay  They are relevant for worship and historical significance

‘Songs of Praise’ on the harbour wall Photo Jim Castling

13. PARISH COUNCIL & NATIONAL TRUST The questionnaire covered a range of views on the Parish and the National Trust in this section, attempting first to identify a view on how important members of the Parish feel it is to protect and preserve the historic and unique character of the area.

The view that the historic and unique character of the area is important was very strong with a clear majority showing that members of the Parish have a clear view on this.

49 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

3 23 How important is it to protect & Very preserve the historic & unique Fairly character of the Parish? Not 202

When asked for a view on whether the Parish Council carries out its duties adequately there Does the PC carry out its was a relatively even split between those who felt duties adequately? that the Council did and those who did not know and 16 who felt the Counci did not. Yes Thirty-two respondents qualified their view with an 103 104 additional view. There was a general trend in No comments centeringreing on the need for more Don't know powers for the Parish Council to function better 16 with a call for more support from Cornwall Country Council and gratitude from one respondent pointing out that it is a voluntary position. One other respondent pointed out that there is an imbalance in gender representation, while there were a number of calls for better communication of decisions and the wider publication of the agenda be made as well as an improved website.

There was some criticism around planning decisions and the public toilets in the car park as well as a call for better Christmas decorations. Mention of the house beside the surgery was made and one respondent felt that the village is cliquey. One respondent pointed out that locals need to be more involved and one other asked whether the Council was dealing with, or looking into, the issue of turbines, presumably in the area.

When asked whether the Council should extend its powers into specific areas respondents indicated what areas needed attention in the Parish. The table below demonstrates the priorities that members of the Parish have on this subject.

AREA Yes No Traffic management 108 68 Planning permission 140 50 Village maintenance 179 20 Toilets 159 30 Car parking 164 34

50 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Clearly respondents felt that the Parish Council did indeed need to extend its powers into all five areas in the follwing order of importance:

1/ Village maintenance

2/ Car parking

3/ Toilets

4/ Planning permission

5/ Traffic management

Parish members were asked to comment on the relationship the National Trust has with the Parish and whether the National Trust works just as much for the interests of the Parish as it does for its own. The majority of respondents did not know. However, largely, people felt they did, with 56 respondents reporting that they felt that they did not.

Yes 84 79 Does the National Trust work No for the mutual benefit of Don't know itself and the Parish?

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62 respondents took the opportunity to comment further. In these comments it was evident that there was a rather negative theme surrounding the National Trust. A number of comments drew attention to the feeling that they do not consult the community often enough, some respondents citing the building of the lower bridge beside Harbour Lights as an example of this, stating that it is not in keeping with the harbour or the village. This view added to other views that expressed the feeling that the National Trust was not sympathetic to the character of the area.

There was also a strong sentiment that the Trust does more for tourists and its own profit than it does for residents and is not interested in supporting the local community. The Trust’s level of maintenance was also criticised with some making specific reference to the slipway and pathways in the area. There was also a call for the National Trust to tackle the issue of dog fouling in the harbour area and provide more bins on the land in their care.

One respondent pointed to the lack of interest taken by the National Trust and its attendance of Parish Council meetings. Stronger views held that the National Trust is not an asset to the village and that the relationship between the village and itself is poor due to its handling of

51 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan historical issues. One respondent referred to the National Trust as a ‘law unto itself’20 criticising the management of the stitches and the ‘quagmire’ that the area becomes after over-grazing which added to another general theme concerning the stitches and the movement of animals there, as well as the need to better maintain barriers.

On the whole, respondents who used the comments box had largely negative comments to make about the National Trust;, however 8 respondents took the time to make positive comments regarding the work of the National Trust and the fact it provides jobs and does maintain the coastline and paths in the area as well as the character of the Parish.

14. THINKING CAPS ON Finally, 158 respondents took the time to conclude their response to the questionnaire’s categories by Thinking Caps On providing some feedback and ideas on areas of particular concern for them. In all, 195 comments Commented 77 with ideas were made by these respondents. There was No comments great uptake in this area and after collation of all 158 added comments, suggestions and concerns these have been categorised under the following headings and the number of category specific comments shown in the column table below:

1. LIGHTS 2. TRANSPORT 3. TRAFFIC 4. ROADS 5. PARKING 6. AREA 7. COMMUNITY 8. FACILITIES 9. LOCAL POWERS/AUTHORITY 10. HOUSING 11. OTHER

20 Questionnaire #215

52 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Specific Areas of Personal Concern 50 44 45 43 40 35 29 30 25 20 15 15 12 11 10 10 8 8 7 4 5 0

1. LIGHTS

In addition to comments directed by the questionnaire around lighting, four respondents further added their suggestions to turn lights off at either 11pm or 12pm, or at least have them dimmed. One other respondent called for lighting to be provided around the turning at Paradise Road and near to Tubbs Ground.

2. TRANSPORT

There were a number of calls for a bus shelter at the top of the village where children, as well as the public, currently catch buses to school. There was also some call for improved and more regular services.

3. TRAFFIC

Whilst many of the following concerns were accounted for in the questionnaire, some respondents took the time to emphasise their concern over traffic in the area. Ten out of 12 respondents all agreed that improved traffic management needs to be addressed through the use of traffic calming methods such as speed restrictions or speed humps. Others also held views that traffic concerns on New Road need to be resolved and that double yellow lines need to be placed outside the surgery.

53 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

4. ROADS

There was some added call for the improvement of road surfaces and the filling in of potholes as well as increased frequency in the clearing of debris on roads from foliage as well as the clearing of drains. On top of this there was minor mention of a need for paths along roadsides presently without pedestrian facilities and the need for a maximum width sign at the top of Fore Street.

5. PARKING

Parking was a particular concern for those who replied and received the most comment alongside comments made regarding facilities. Forty-four respondents made specific parking related comments with the vast majority of these implying that this issue is a chief concern for the Parish.

Suggestions that were made covered seasonal reductions for locals, free parking for locals or reduced parking for locals. All comments were aimed at alleviating problems around parking on roadsides caused by residents avoiding daily charges that were felt to be too high. Respondents encouraged the use of the car park, at reasonable rates or concessions, in order that residents may use the local facilities and services within Boscastle.

There was complaint regarding the current charges being too high and not in line with other council run car parks in similar areas. This particular complaint drew attention to the encouragement visitors, as well as residents, are given to seek free parking on roadsides, leading to congestion and hazards on New Road and Old Road as well as around the surgery. There was also complaint regarding parking on pavements outside shops. One specific comment was made regarding the parking by the National Trust outside the Cornish Rambler. As well as this there was comment on the blockage caused by visitors and owners of the Old Oil House, who park at the top of Valency Row, the criticism being that this reduces access for residents, hampers easy access for pedestrians and potentially reduces the number of access points for emergency services.

6. AREA

There was some call for the need to improve and maintain the appearance of the village and pathways as well as the need for more bins and fouling signs. There was one suggestion of a patrol to maintain awareness of dog waste management. The clearing of drains was brought up here as well as the ‘Roads’ section and was commonly linked with keeping hedgerows cut back. On the subject of the management of trees and hedgerows the National Trust was criticised, with attention focussed on the valley.

54 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

There was also call for added seating in the harbour area for the elderly and better use of Minster and the Bottreaux castle site. There was a suggestion of a new community centre, with room for parking, behind the garage and finally there was critical remark of signs around shops at the bottom of the village.

Photo: Margaret Pickering

7. COMMUNITY

There was some call to improve community cohesion and provide more social gatherings with suggestions covering an Easter bonnet parade, a carnival and a floral dance in the summer. As well as this there was some call for improved communication in the community alongside efforts to improve the community spirit. Minster church was also suggested as a site that could be used for the purposes of the community.

8. FACILITIES

On the subject of facilities in the Parish, and more specifically Boscastle and Forrabury, the dominant suggestions concerned the toilets and the need for toilet facilities at the top of the village. Eighteen respondents drew attention to the need for WC facilities at the top of the village or called for the Parish to take on the car park toilets and make them freely available all year round.

Other calls for improved facilities covered the desire for disabled access to Minster and better access to the Village Hall; the need for a handrail on the steps to the surgery was also raised as well as a chiropodist at the surgery. Others called for outdoor gym equipment, a youth club and activities for young families.

In the harbour there was some desire for a handrail and improved disabled access to the harbour viewing point as well as improved access to cliff paths with the added suggestion of making these accessible by bicycle. There was also a repeated call for more bins in the area.

55 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

9. LOCAL POWERS/AUTHORITY

The issue around shop signs was carried on in this category through the call for an increase in Parish Council powers and the need for greater local authority. Five out of ten respondents took issue with the quality and quantity of shop signage asking for some form of regulation over this.

There was the encouragement of more women to join the Parish Council as well as the restoration of district councils more generally. Finally there was one comment calling for a restriction of National Trust powers over the village.

10. HOUSING

There was some concern over housing issues with the need for better housing for locals mentioned as well as greater opportunities for young, local or new residents to buy or rent long term. The need for correlation between income and house prices was also raised with two calls for less second homes in the area or a limit on second homes.

11. OTHER

Finally, there were a number of comments around the promotion of Boscastle as an attraction as well as the need for better communication, possibly through a noticeboard, of upcoming events. Access to the Parish Plan was requested with better access, also, to decisions made by the Parish Council. One respondent suggested an automated email service that could provide local information and news.

In other areas there was a suggestion of employing a dog warden, better financial support for Parish churches, a farmers market and the need for the National Trust to improve their collaboration with the community and greater transparency regarding their decisions and planning.

56 Forrabury & Minster Parish Plan

Map showing Forrabury and Minster and Minster Parish Boundary

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