Where do I live? Street names

Road and Street names hold an essential place in a community often being cultural markers with historical connections.

So when one is incorrectly designated it can cause all kinds of problems. 

For example roads on Owsla Park have names related to Richard Adam's book Watership Down, while those on Mill Springs are silk associated, both themes having local connections.

Confusion would reign if Loom Close was placed off Richard Adams Way or Fiver Close off Shuttle Street, and its not just for historical reasons. These days we also need to think about couriers and deliveries! No wonder parcels go missing sometimes.

Then there are names after local historical features – Waterloo Court named after the old brewery on the site, Long's Court after the Jam Factory, and Fair Close after the old fairground on the land.

And some roads are named after prominent local people, such as Brooks Close after Tommy Brooks and Mcfauld Way named after a local nurse.

Road and Street names are important to us for so many reasons.

So...

When signage goes up incorrectly not only does it means a lot to local people it is also important for visitors and trades folk, which explains why when road signs saying Winchester Street appeared half a mile away in Winchester Road at Mill Springs, the call came out:

"I don't know where I live anymore!"

Hopefully this can be put right.

Below:

A road sign in Winchester ROAD...

It needs fixing!

Dudley, Eunice and Franklin

Well, that was windy, and the Whitchurch spirit kicked in.

First Storm Dudley hit, followed by Eunice and then Franklin, while Gladys is lining up.

With damage across the town, and power cuts for some lasting many hours, the community support for each other was wonderful. That needs all our thanks.

Friday morning was spent clearing up rubbish from bins that had been flying around, and chasing fences that had blocked paths or trees that fallen on roads.

Residents immediately went into help mode as power supplies failed – generators were loaned, soup and hot food provided to neighbours, camping equipment put into service, and shed felt, nails and chainsaws shared.

Refreshments were taken out to workmen repairing the cables, hot water bottles collected for those without power and needing overnight warmth, and the elderly checked up on for safety.

The Social Club opened up to provide hot showers, free tea, coffee, wifi access, and became available for takeaway deliveries, while SSE stepped in with a food van to provide free hot sustenance.

It was not just physical help as financial support came in too, with a rapidly arranged call for funds to help the damage caused at the local animal charity Furlock Holmes raising over £1600 (at last look).

The Winner?

But the storms could not beat the Whitchurch community spirit itself which came out as winner. Its was the desire of so many to immediately jump into action to help that was so effective and worthy of much praise.

Brilliant. 🙂 

A Controversial Planning Application

A new location for the Montessori Nursery has been causing some debate within Whitchurch as the excellent Nursery seeks a replacement site. In December 2020 an outline planning application was presented to Whitchurch Town Council on an area of woodland on an old railway embankment adjacent to Park View, a housing area near All Hallows Church.

The proposed woodland site

The application was supported by the Council but in November 2021 the Town Council was asked to reconsidered it due to the many subsequent changes made by the applicant over the following nine months.
A meeting of the Development Committee at the newly refurbished Town Hall was held. 

Here is not the place to comment on why a restriction on time for speaking was implemented, nor why at very short notice the capacity of the Council Chamber restricted a number of public objectors from gaining entry, but fair to say it was not a happy meeting with some heckling and a number of public objectors walking out.

However this page is simply a place to publish the representations I made during the meeting, and is here solely as an effort to embrace transparency.

Here it is:

***************************


Chairman and fellow Councillors:

Firstly, this needs some clarity – it has nothing to do with supporting a nursery or not.

I have not found anyone opposed to the excellent education and services that Montessori provide, which are beyond reproach.
The town is growing and nursery provision and infrastructure needs to be provided.
My comments apply solely to the choice of this particular site when there may be others more suitable.

This Application is of massive interest to local residents and I commend Cllr Mercer for getting this accepted onto the Agenda.

1. Site

This is an undeveloped green site that has been used by generations for low key recreation as well as being a small wildlife haven and is recognised as having importance in the Neighbourhood Plan.

At a time of COP26 and when Whitchurch Town Council is reviewing its own Climate Action Plan, the destruction of any woodland areas must in my view be questioned.

2. Amenity Spread

I am concerned at the spread of our amenities in the town with two nurseries being in such close proximity while major house development takes place in the south.
South east Whitchurch is also possibly one of the areas where housing is most likely in the future where there is no provision.

3. Proximity to Rising Fives and restriction of facility

The proximity to Rising Fives Pre-School concerns me as Rising Fives use this public land for some of their outdoor activities.
To transfer this public amenity into a competing private nursery’s jurisdiction does quite not seem ‘right’.

Whilst the application states that the land will still be available there is no indication of any legal agreement to allow this or confirmation that such a condition would be within any planning approval.
I am also concerned to hear that Rising Fives were refused a spot to speak at this meeting.

Proposed access to parking, drop off/pick up

4. Traffic/Access

The access so close to Wells Lane is unsuitable for any on-street drop offs by motor vehicle and there is no detail how any conflicts with anyone cycling or walking will be removed.
The area is already busy with private vehicles at peak times, along with deliveries, service vehicles during the day. It is the sole access to the Park View residential area.

Details given on bus services are both disingenuous and incorrect. The 59 is a minibus and does not run “hourly”, it runs 2/3 times a day on three mornings only. The bus 17 does not exist and there is no half hourly service from the Cemetery stop. 

It throws credibility on the report.

And while I commend aims to give discounts and maps to those who walk or cycle, will these too be legal entity within any planning approval. I don’t believe they can be.

5. Proximity to neighbours

Anyone who visits the site will see that it overlooks the properties in Park View. Indeed on Thursday I stood on the site and was so close the houses in Park View that my eyes met a resident looking out of their first floor window.

To have the noise of children outside, the associated lighting all on a raised embankment at bedroom level is unacceptable for a residential living environment.

6. Alternative sites?

However I do believe there may be other potential sites within Whitchurch and I would have liked to know more about which ones were considered and why rejected. I asked this last December and no information was forthcoming.
(Testbourne, Primary School, new Mill Springs Sports Pitches area, Watership Place?)

7. I believe it falls foul of our Neighbourhood Plan:

The area is identified in the Whitchurch Neighbourhood Plan (WNP) 7.37 as one of the ‘key biodiversity assets of Whitchurch’.

And
WNP, 7.32, notes that there are:

“two distinct green corridors linking the parish with the town of Whitchurch: the disused railway line and the Test valley.

These areas are very important for both the community and the natural environment, because they provide a wide range of wildlife habitats, tree cover and footpath links.

They are particularly highly valued as they provide continuous corridors that are separated from the disturbance associated with buildings and traffic.

It is essential to retain the un-spoilt character of these [two] corridors and to encourage and reinforce footpath links throughout.

8. Conclusion

To support this application would be going against our own Neighbourhood Plan content, and challenges our Climate Change and aims.

It drives a massive wedge through the Neighbourhood Plan process something we should not risk given the massive potential developments that are appearing on the horizon.
To support this would be like throwing our own Neighbourhood findings under a bus and affect confidence and credibility in any future decisions.

I urge objection.

************************* 

The Meeting decided to SUPPORT the application.

Whilst I have to accept the Town Council decision and fully respect the views of fellow Councillors, the Application now goes to Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council to make the final decision.

Town Council engagement

It was exactly three years ago today, the 15th March 2018...

Four classes of young children visited the Whitchurch Town Hall Chamber from the Primary School over two days – it was fun. For a short time THEY were our Town Council; THEY were the most important people in our town; and of course THEY still remain so. THEY hold our future.

Our Town Council was moving in a positive direction – listening to, meeting with, talking to, and importantly involving local people in the future of the town; and who better to be part of that than our town's children. They debated, proposed and voted, and they were empowered. Some of us had already held 'surgeries' for our current residents – now it was the turn of the future of Whitchurch.

This was one of the best, most productive and encouraging events of the year and it remains a massive highlight along with a little humbling at their thoughtfulness and caring nature.

And what a happy picture this was, as myself, the lovely Fiona and our excellent Clerks, Karen and Sharon met these wonderful young people. Without their dedication and friendliness it could not have happened. Recognition must also go to the inspirational Barry Jackman who had, I believe, introduced a similar event some years back when he was Mayor.

We engaged, listened and acted and feedback was nothing but positive.

That's what Town Council's are for.

The children may even get the Zip wire they asked for, although not too sure about the McDonalds.

(click below pic to enlarge).

 

Traffic and Housing – A thought

Traffic congestion and 'being held up' is perhaps the most regular topic to arise on local social media channels. It is often linked to housing development and plans for the town's growth. "We cannot have more housing – Our roads cannot cope" and "No more building we already have gridlock".

But is there a more fundamental problem? Could it be more the way we prioritise our living spaces and indeed our lifestyles? Is there an over-reliance on motor vehicles that clog our streets and slow our journeys?

Hence some thoughts...

*IF* housing is needed (questionable), then we could focus on providing low-traffic neighbourhoods where people and liveability are put at the top of the hierarchy – home zones, easy safe walking routes with pedestrian priority, cycle safe/friendly infrastructure, priorities for local transport services, support for the most vulnerable...... 

Other countries manage it but we in the UK are stuck in a time warp concerning such planning strategies.

The result of our stagnation is that we have catalogue housing estates where road systems dominate instead of neighbourhoods where people, families, children come first. We have costly congestion, polluted streets, dangerous pavements... and here in Hampshire we have amongst the worst road safety casualty figures in the UK.
Yes, there are a few places that have been forward-looking but they are few and far apart.

What can we do?

When we have opportunities for setting out what type of living environment we want, and where our priorities should be, we need to take them.

Sitting back and moaning is not productive. 

One way is to get involved in the planning processes through Local and Neighbourhood Plans and to be proactive in making views known.

That time is now.

That increase in Local Tax (Precept)

Last year I could not support an increase costs by the Town Council on our residents that was kept to around 4% by using reserves. 

Around £13,000 was taken from reserves that with adjustments elsewhere could have been used on services/amenities for our residents.

I will simply repeat what I said then:

“It seems the proposal made is to use excess reserves to 'bail out’ this situation – funds that belong to the people of Whitchurch, and having accrued, should really be used for better purposes – community amenities and improvements to services.”

I asked “What will happen next year”.

Well here we are in 2021 and...

We are being asked to use even greater sums from the Reserves to prop up the budget.

Today there are concerns including increasing petty crime, poor pavement cleaning, lack of general maintenance, potential loss of the toilets, illegal rubbish dumping and possible future car park charging.

At the same time many residents are suffering financial implications from job losses, business closures, rising inflation, income reductions, increased stress and of course health difficulties and losses of family/friends through Covid.

When people in our community are having to raise funds, call for donations and give their own time to help the needy; and are delivering hundreds of food parcels and assist in providing basic needs, we as a Council are asking them to pay more?

Is that right?

I cannot agree to that so will oppose the budget that is being presented for 2021/22.

I voted against. I lost the argument.

The proposals were however agreed by majority, a process which I fully respect:

Charge to be raised from local residents (the Precept):  £160,852.54

For a Band D property this means a payment of £76.81, a rise of £12.97p p.a

This is a rise of 20.3% and ALSO takes a sum of £17,165.92 out of Reserves.

I'm not a financial expert, but my view there is something that needs addressing in the 'balance' of how the finances are managed when over £17k has to be used to prop up the figures which STILL result in a large increase.

Yes, there are amounts added for potential running of the Public Toilets, although we pay for that already through our taxes to Basingstoke; and for maintenance of the sports pitches, but overall with also over £100,000 on administration I feel most uncomfortable and hope that the Council can look again at its financial direction.

ALL MY OWN OPINION OF COURSE

Community Caretaker – more thoughts

One year ago I wrote this...

Maybe now is the time to start seriously looking at providing services ourselves in the form of some kind of community support – a 'community caretaker' maybe with the remit of some pro-active social liaison/education responsibilities (talking/advising), along with some reactive response activity to incidents when reported (bluntly – clearing up).

That was mainly in response to reports of anti-social behaviour, vandalisms and low level crimes.
But there is another aspect where an as-and-when-on-call  'Community caretaker' could play a very important role for Emergency safety needs.

Today it was reported that the short narrow concrete bridge that leads from Town Mill Lane to The Green over the small adjacent stream had been damaged with a railing removed.

A Facebook comment appeared with a picture stating:

"Better watch out if you’re out walking with little ones. This is the bridge that leads to and from Town Mills and The Green"

It was an immediate risk to safety

It was clear that any young child could easily fall in the river and suffer injury or worse. The bridge needed immediate attention even if only in a temporary way to maintain safety until a full repair could be undertaken.

Being over a holiday period no one was around, but the situation would have been the same at almost any time. It was reported to the online system with the usual standard response of:

"We will assess your enquiry as soon as possible. We receive around 70,000 enquiries each year which we prioritise according to the nature of the issue." 

"In most cases our staff will need to visit the site to make an assessment, which we aim to complete within two weeks, subject to availability."

So that's it. Two weeks to make an assessment.
Meanwhile the danger would remain and a child could fall into the river. 😟

BUT ... A resident steps in... Thankfully a community minded resident put up a section of netting themselves.

Two questions came to mind...

1. Should Whitchurch have a small accessible store of equipment for such instances – maybe some tape, netting, brooms, bin bags, zip ties, shovels, and the like for small emergencies' that was made easily accessible; and/or
2. Should Whitchurch have an on-call 'Community Caretaker' who could deal with such matters – such as, in this case, putting up some tape, warning signage or netting until a full repair could be undertaken?

Request made to Town Council...

Mindful of the other earlier requirements and also taking into account increasing costs on residents and the forthcoming budget arrangements, a request for a full review Town Council staffing needs has been made.

The request was made at the Town Council Meeting on 9th December 2020. This latest incident shows how important that request might be.

It would enable the subject of a possible community support role to be considered in conjunction with the local community.

I think such a service would be helpful, others may not, but do you?

Whitchurch Red Telephone Boxes – renovation

UPDATE 2  (5th April 2021) 

The paint kit has turned up, for which BT is to be thanked. 

The work now starts to get a team of volunteers to help. Please be in touch if you wish to help.

Work will also be progressed to see if it can be given any legal protection.

UPDATE 1  (16th December 2020) 

BT have told me that they will be arranging a cleaning of the box and that they will 'consider a repainting' and will be in touch once their 'Regional Field Officer' has had a look.

Hopefully it will be possible to work with BT on the box's future and to at least ensure it is more presentable. More details when available.

Also looking at some 'protection' if possible as it's in the Conservation Area.

***********************

OUR TELEPHONE BOX...

WHAT THIS IS ALL ABOUT

There used to be a number of the traditional red telephone boxes in Whitchurch but now there remains just one and, although in the Conservation Area, it is in a poor state of repair.

The red telephone box was introduced in 1926 and has since become a cultural icon and a feature of our street scenes in towns and villages across our British Isles. It has even spread further with examples in many other countries – becoming a symbol of Britain in places such as Barbados, Malta, Gibraltar and even in Australia. 

In 1935 the K6 design was introduced to celebrate King George V's Silver Jubilee with eventually around 65,000 K6 boxes being installed across the country. The boxes are made of cast iron with a teak door and weigh around three quarters of a ton.

The design was by the architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott who was also designer of the Anglican Cathedral in Liverpool, Battersea and Bankside Power Stations, the latter now being the Tate Modern in London.

Fast forward to the 1980's and many were falling foul of vandalism and a lack of maintenance. Many were removed or replaced by a variety of new designs but the love for the traditional red icon remained with only around 3400 remaining in operation according to Historic England. Of these most are now 'Listed' (not the Whitchurch one though – see later).

But many continue to disappear from the landscape.

As their use has declined due much to the advent of the mobile phone, BT have been offering them for adoption and many local councils have taken them on in conjunction with their communities. Around the Whitchurch countryside several are now used as libraries, or for housing defibrillators, and some provide local information. In other places they have been used as art galleries, coffee bars, photo booths, even an ice cream dispenser and one became a pub! 

The Whitchurch box is still a working telephone and is not currently for adoption but its condition still deteriorates by the day. Are there ways to keep in operating and still be looked after?

The sadly lost Berehill box

The Lost Boxes

A few years ago the two red boxes in Whitchurch at Berehill and Queens Road were offered for adoption and there was a small campaign to retain them but there were no takers and they are now sadly gone.

The last remaining box is in Church Street and with BT still keeping it as an operating telephone but it is looking very sorry for itself – it badly needs a full paint and parts of the door are rotting. Whilst no one wants to lose the service of a public telephone, given its deteriorating condition its time must surely be limited unless some remedial work is undertaken.

Can we save our last red telephone box in Whitchurch?

Do we want to lose this?

There are some local people willing to help. Whitchurch Town Council has been already approached for 'support' and BT has been contacted to see what might be possible. There are also plans to see if it can be 'Listed' and thus be given some protection either through the national scheme or through a local listing with the Borough Council. 

Advice has also been sought from and provided from other Charity groups and Parish Councils that have also had similar situations and their help has been much appreciated, especially some wonderfully supportive people in Cornwall!

If there is anyone else willing to get involved, perhaps to help with some ideas in supporting retention of this important part of our town's street scene, then please make contact. 

...and even more? – if so could this be the catalyst needed to start some other community driven projects in our town to help make Whitchurch a more vibrant and attractive location?

PLEASE BE IN TOUCH

John

Save our Pub Culture

CAMPAIGN FOR COMMON SENSE
*** WRITE NOW ***
Re: MEALS WITH DRINKS - in Public Houses in Tiers 1 and 2

Since this was written the situation has changed with many of the country's pubs falling into Tier 4 and closing completely.

However Kit Malthouse MP did not reply.

--------

Laughing at the Scotch Egg jokes or talk of leaving half of potato on a plate to get another drink don’t help the real-life situation of our pubs and breweries or give us protection against Covid-19.

And is a pickled egg a meal?

Asking that misses the point.

The requirement to have a ‘meal' to be able to enjoy beer is, IMO, perhaps the most ridiculous and absurd of actions taken by this government. How that protects me I have no idea. 

Yes to social distancing, table service, face coverings, track and trace... but this?

All it does it destroy livelihoods, businesses and our pub culture, so important to the social and well-being of our community.

On 16th December the government will be announcing changes to the tiers. Let's get this meal requirement removed at the same time! (Update: They didn't remove it)
My own letter below to my MP could be used as a template should you wish or please write your own.

Support our Pubs and Breweries and all who work in them.

************************************


To: The Right Hon. Kit Malthouse MP

Re: MEALS WITH DRINKS - in Public Houses in Tiers 1 and 2.

Dear Mr. Malthouse,

Our public houses are a cornerstone of our communities, not just being places to eat and drink but also for being social havens for many; as well as combatting loneliness, isolation and community cohesion, all essential requirements in these difficult times.

The latest introduction of forcing the purchase of a meal to have an alcoholic drink is a step too far, not being backed up by any credible evidence or logic. The rules on social distancing, the wearing of face coverings, table service and use of track and trace when visiting public houses are all fully understood and have been accepted by many as having some degree of sense given the crisis we are in.
But the idea that eating a meal can be an additional protection against Covid just does not stack up – indeed it is making the government a laughing stock. The fall out is a lack of credibility and trust in any government announcements just when it is needed most. This has been shown so clearly with the disregard to social distancing in city centres across the country this last weekend.

A plate of food does nothing to stop the virus. It is a concept without foundations. The result is that many pubs that cannot provide food have decided to close; livelihoods are further threatened; businesses are under greater threat of collapse – and many pubs may never re-open again. This scapegoating of pubs means we all lose out.

I note it has been announced that the ‘tiers' are being reassessed on December 16th. Can you give your assurance that you will be requesting that at least the necessity to have a meal if you wish to have a drink will be lifted and give some hope to the local pubs that cannot provide food and to the local breweries that supply them.
It really was a step too far.

I look forward to your reply,

Yours faithfully,

John

John Buckley

Member Campaign for Real Ale

Member Campaign for Pubs

Councillor, Whitchurch Town Council, Hampshire

Views expressed are my own.

Loss of Services; Higher costs?

Loss of services; Increasing costs

Some things to ponder on Whitchurch residents share of the Council Tax through the Town Council's 'precept':

• Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council are wanting to close its Public Toilets in Whitchurch (and elsewhere) and has asked if the Town Council might take them over (and of course the costs).

• BDBC also want to either cease safety checking the Play Areas or to introduce a charge to Whitchurch Town Council for doing so.

• On top of this BDBC are proposing to introduce Car Park charging in Whitchurch as well as raising Residential Parking Permit fees...

• ... and introduce charges for Disabled Spaces in Council Car Parks where they are currently free.

• BDBC are planning to cut grass cutting in urban areas by nearly half, from 13 to 8 times a year so our Whitchurch verges will be looked after less, but we will still be paying the same.

• ... and jobs are being cut in the Borough Council too.

All of these issues, and others, could place further burdens on our increasingly strapped Whitchurch residents. 
AND our BDBC Council Tax will still go up. 

Double Taxation

What disturbs me most is that we are already paying for the Public Toilets and those Play Area safety checks through our ever-increasing BDBC Council Tax and now we are being asked to pay again through our local 'precept' – effectively Double Taxation. But don't get me wrong, I am aware that finance to BDBC has been drastically cut by central government; however they are a very well-off Council.

Is this fair? is it right?

These continuing cuts/charges are going to have a considerable effect on us at possibly the worst time ever for many.

A tough time ahead – what about the Town Council charges?

The next few years are going to be extremely tough. Many are losing livelihoods and jobs; incomes are being frozen; employment and inflation is rising. Businesses are collapsing and many individuals and families are suffering the devastating personal effects of Covid-19. All this needs to be recognised in how the Town Council sets its Precept for its own services along with keeping our own Town Council charges value for money. It is massively difficult for local Councillors.

Earlier this year I felt I could not support our Town Council's budget for 2020/21 as I felt the Administration element was out of proportion to what we were providing. When the final proposals for next year are collated and presented for 2021/22 in January, I really hope it will not be the same.

The future is going to be very hard on many and as a LOCAL Town Council my opinion is that we need to reach out, listen to, and help our LOCAL residents wherever we can. 

Perhaps it is clichéd but ..... We are all in this together.

The Whitchurch 59 Bus

The No.59 BUS 

An article produced for the Town Council (or anyone else)

As well as the Stagecoach bus services to Andover, Winchester and Basingstoke, Whitchurch has its own local bus service that currently runs three mornings a week – something it seems that many might not know (funded by Basingstoke Council with some support from Whitchurch)

Around the town

The No.59, which operates on a Hail & Ride basis as well as using the bus stops, traces a route around the town that includes London Road, Lynch Hill Park, Berehill, the Railway Station, Evingar Road, and Wells Lane/Church Street. It serves the Surgery and has stops outside the Co-op and Tescos. It also links Overton and Laverstoke into Whitchurch and visits Litchfield on demand.

Anyone can catch it for a small fixed fare and Bus Passes are valid too.

Flexible uses

The service provides a wide range of opportunities ranging from a shopping trip to a pop into town to meet friends for a coffee; and makes the surgery, the dentists, the chemist, the post office and other businesses all accessible. On a very practical level it is a tough walk up to the Knowlings, Fairfields or Lynch Hill with bags of shopping if other transport is not available – this bus makes it easy.

Social support

But perhaps its main value is the social support it provides to the less able or the more isolated members of the Whitchurch community. The benefits of preventing loneliness and of helping people to remain independent cannot be overstated, and the friendly drivers are always willing to help when assistance is required.

Costs

As with all services the value and cost are always being assessed and with the contract due for renewal next Spring the importance to the town needs to be shown to be beneficial. It is currently run by Basingstoke Community Transport with finance from Basingstoke & Deane and some support from Whitchurch Town Council.

With budgets now being formulated for next year, the question for local Whitchurch Town Councillors is should a local financial contribution continue.

––––––––
Cllr John Buckley
Passenger and Sustainable Transport Representative
Whitchurch Town Council

The Cycle Racks have gone

Whitchurch Town Council (Hampshire) decided to remove the new cycle racks in the Town Centre, following representations from some local businesses and residents. Today, November 11th, workmen took them away. The Council is now to decide on new locations.

Whilst as a Councillor I have to accept and respect the decision, it does not mean I have to agree with it. 

In the very week that we are all being advised by the Government to walk or cycle as part of the second Covid lockdown, this cycle parking was removed. Various reasons were given ranging from not being used, to being an obstruction and even that they restricted use of the pavements for trade vehicles.

However, support for cycling in shopping areas is known to improve their vitality and economic viability.  When lockdown is over, help for local traders will be essential to help them survive, with recovery likely to take several years for many. Those locations that think smarter are likely to be the ones that prosper most.

Sometimes poor decisions are made. In my opinion this one was short-sighted.

The racks before removal.

Some claimed they were never used.

Now the racks have gone and all is quiet.

Here is something to consider when looking at the above:

These are entirely my own views – and not those of Whitchurch Town Council

•

Jelly Babies and Customer Service

JELLY BABIES and CUSTOMER SERVICE

My grandson and I like Jelly Babies; not the squishy Bassetts variety, but the harder drier and less sugary ones.

So instead of using the local convenience stores we tried an independent paper/sweet shop where they have them in those ‘old-fashioned’ jars. You remember – those jars that were in shops where a welcoming friendly person behind a counter gave you a smile and valued your custom.

Firstly we selected some tubes of sweets including pastilles that we wanted, then we looked at the jars on the shelves.

We asked if we could try a Jelly Baby before deciding on a purchase. “Definitely not” came the snapped response with a severe and quite threatening stare to match. 

It took me aback somewhat.

Now I like using independent shops, and supporting small businesses, but they also need to help themselves and a bit of pleasantry goes a long way. But there was no shifting the icy glare. 

Sale lost

So the other potential purchases were put back on the shelves and their sale was lost, along with quite a bit of goodwill. 

“You wouldn’t expect to try something in Tesco’s” came a curt call as we left, the irony of the remark obviously not understood. Dead right I wouldn’t and that is EXACTLY why I had tried the small independent shop, hoping for a more personal service. 

Instead it was the national chain business convenience stores that were to get our business.

Small Shops? Independent traders? 

They too need to remember customer service and common courtesy costs very little. Just being small and local is not enough. It is, or should be an inherent advantage and many will pay a little more to support them, but I fear more businesses will fold if they don’t recognise the importance of providing a pleasant experience for the customer. 

Oh did I hate writing the above – it should be so unnecessary

 

Camaraderie

The camaraderie and friendship of cyclists is something that permeates deep through the cycling world. Whenever two or more meet there is an instant rapport and love of the common bond of two wheels.

 

We wave as we pass, we smile, we help each other, we chat chains and gear ratios, and we stop to lend inner tubes by the roadside. We are friends.

So one recent morning was most odd. 

As I went out to sort my bins a chap went past on the path and, naturally as ‘cyclists' do, I looked at his bike. 

“Why yer lookin’ at ma bike” came the gruffest of aggressive growls with a piercing stare, worthy of my old Maths teacher when I was chewing a toffee.

It was weird, as I was admiring his machine and was about to praise his cycling to school with his young lad.

 

Have the stresses of Covid and social-distancing affected friendly interaction? 

Not sure.

But if I come across him with a flat tyre, I’ll still offer to help. 

Because that’s what cyclists do. 😀

It's the camaraderie. 

Thoughts on XR and the future

How long do we have left?

I admit to have become uneasy about Extinction Rebellion and some of their tactics that have resulted in physical damage. Its difficult, as I believe that the non-violent civil-disobedience strategy has much merit but I cannot see much being achieved, nor do I see a way out.

Is 'Climate Emergency' just a tick?

Announcements by local authorities and well-meaning organisations declaring “Climate Emergencies” seem simply to be talking shop statements, announced to earn a political green tick or to gain a warm internal glow rather than achieving anything meaningful.

What can we do?

In the ‘real world’ my own efforts to separate household rubbish, starting a compost bin, growing a few vegetables in a pot and not to drive seem meagre gestures towards retention of a habitable planet for my children and their children.
Today I looked into the innocent smiling eyes of my newest grandson. I admit it was hard as thoughts came of just what are we leaving him? How strong do messages need to be before it is realised we really are moving towards the eradication of human life?

Powerless?

I look around and see so many unwilling to even contemplate the need for even the smallest of changes, let alone actually make any.
And worse of all I feel powerless to do anything about it.

The thoughts above came after watching this video, a new film from Extinction Rebellion, a 30-minute version of the XR Introductory Talk about climate change and how it is affecting all life on the planet.

Where is the fairness?

Today's announcements from our 'government'...

A reduction of VAT to 5% on food and non-alcoholic drinks for the Hospitality industry.

So? What is wrong with this?

It is supposed to help the public house but favours the large operators above the traditional hard working local publicans who serve their small communities. And here in Whitchurch we are small community with traditional pubs.

The small community-focussed wet-led pubs, so important as our centres of social value draw the short straw and are ignored, as these VAT cuts fall in the laps of the better off. There is no VAT reduction on your refreshing pint of beer, or your warming brandy.

Many publicans countrywide are saying this is firm kick in the teeth while the likes of the Hungry Horses, the Wetherspoons and the Beefeaters of this world are provided with handouts to help line their pockets, while those who simply provide an honest pint do not.

The small independents who have worked so hard to survive over the past months with their home deliveries and 'extra' services, not just beers but also delivering compost, vegetables and the Sunday joint come to mind for me. They get next to nothing. 

There is a small lovely country pub just down the road, turned around from closure into a wonderful centre for its village and surrounding area. In just five years it went from a near derelict run down building into a lovely warm welcoming refuge that caters for everyone. Such was the community spirit and ethos that was built up it gained several awards, culminating in the National Pub of the Year.

This is what the landlord said after hearing today's announcement:

"My lowest day as a Pub landlord.... For all I have done and many other community old traditional boozer landlords like me too. UK government see fit to give restaurants a financial advantage over us as we are marginalised and not considered worthy of support within the Hospitality sector."

Where is the fairness?

Britain was supposed to be supportive of the small business – no longer.

Despicable is too tame a word.

Just remember that when you tuck into that Harvester 2-for-1, hand over a Stonegate/JDW/Whoever Discount Voucher, or take a Brewer's Fayre Sunday special.
Think first – is this the business I should be supporting? Or should it be the hard working independent publican around the corner? 

Once again our pub heritage is given scant all support from this government.

Accessibility Scheme in Whitchurch

Over the last couple of years work has been ongoing on an Accessibility Scheme to improve safety and access within Whitchurch.

It is a Hampshire County Council scheme using funding from various developers and HCC have been liaising closely with both Whitchurch and Basingstoke local councils. That liaison in itself is fairly unusual and is to be highly commended.

I have been one of the Whitchurch Councillors involved (along with BDBC and HCC) and who also pushed for local input. 

I believe the proposals made by Hampshire are very good as they incorporate many wishes of local residents and also address many of the issues raised within the Whitchurch Neighbourhood Plan and other adopted policies.

The scheme is made up of many smaller projects from footpath improvements to traffic calming measures, safer routes to schools and cycle routes in town and to the countryside.

While everyone will have their own views, above all I believe they put PEOPLE FIRST.


THE SCHEME'S OVERVIEW: 

• To improve accessibility and safety in Whitchurch, this scheme will comprise of the following;
• Improve pedestrian facilities from residential area to local schools; 
• Improve cycle access across the town centre;
• Enhance pedestrian safety for existing crossing points with signage and road markings;
• Improve the A34 Tufton junction with additional traffic management.

Details of schemes can all be seen here:
WHITCHURCH ACCESSIBILITY PROJECTS

HCC have recently undertaken a Consultation.

I support the scheme (See added comments though)
At the time of writing (April 2020) Whitchurch Town Council's or Basingstoke Borough Council's official responses were not available. 

(UPDATE: Support has subsequently been given)

*******************************

RESPONSE TO CONSULTATION

Submitted Friday 17th April (items in italics are subsequently added comments)
_____________________

General Comments:

Q. ONE (Free text field in Consultation)

The town would become much more pleasant and safer in which to live with my family. Removing many of the detrimental impacts of traffic that make local journeys hazardous for day to day journeys between homes and essential services, shops, schools, the surgery, workplaces and the countryside is essential for a safe, viable and prosperous community. We would use local services more, shop locally and reduce need to travel so much elsewhere.

General Comments:

Q. TWO (Free text field in Consultation)

The town is dominated by motor traffic which makes safe travel by other means dangerous and unpleasant. It suffers from excessive traffic and narrow pavements. Both walking and cycling are hazardous. The roads and traffic dominate the town when priority should be 'people first'. There is no enforcement of traffic speed and crossing roads is fraught with danger especially for the less mobile, while cycling sees vehicles trying to squeeze past, adding danger to the most vulnerable as well as frustrations to drivers. Much pavement driving (and parking) also takes place.

General Commenta:

Q. THREE (Free text field in Consultation)

These projects will make walking and cycling much more safer and encourage less local motor vehicle use making Whitchurch a more pleasant place to live. They will improve access to shops, businesses, schools, workplaces, essential services, and the countryside, and enhance both liveability and the local economy.

People need to be put first and be able to feel safe when moving around.

*** NOTES ON INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS ***

1. Prince Regent Steps

Supported, but without comment, although noted there is an alternative route.

2 (a). Winchester Road Build out

Supported. This build-out will make road crossing easier and safer as well as slowing traffic at a crucial points. It is an important crossing between a busy footpath to/from housing, the Recreation Ground, Schools and Parks on one side, and to the Silk Mill, Community Centre, Library and Car Park on the other.

This section of road is notorious for fast traffic.

(This installation also helps drivers see pedestrians. Tactile paving and drop kerbs also help sight impaired and those with mobility scooters, pushchairs, etc) 

2 (b). Footpath to Recreation Ground

Supported. The path levels here cause puddles which are very difficult to traverse (and they freeze in winter) – even to the extent of a plank being provided at times. Lighting is poor as obstructed by trees. These improvements are badly needed.

3. London Road build out / crossing (updated)

Supported. This will greatly enhance safety on crossing on an important route to the Primary School. 

Update: After input from residents and also a HCC redesign, this project was subsequently removed. 

Whitchurch Town Council withdrew support for this particular project after a number of objections, although still recognised that safety issues need addressing. 

A call for consideration for a school patrol crossing has been passed to HCC.

4. Micheldever Road

Supported. Traffic speed here is much too fast – the build out will help reduce speeds and provide a safer crossing from Testbourne School to/from housing areas. 

(It is also a link between from school area to Skatepark (after school use) and Knowlings area to Testbourne Gym and onwards. Tactile paving and drop kerbs help sight impaired and those with mobility scooters, pushchairs, etc) 

5. Alliston Way

Supported. The Alliston Way/McFauld shared-use route will make this section much safer especially at school time when vehicles mount pavements almost daily. Head on conflicts are commonplace at all times and the pull-in will help that. This should encourage more to walk/cycle to the schools rather than drive. 

(drivers regularly drive along the pavement. The dragons teeth should also prevent this)

6. McFauld Way

Supported. As above, plus it removes conflict in the housing area by provision of the new access route to the school. The extra parking is also supported.

Note: This whole area including The Knowlings is also fraught with parking problems and permit parking may be another solution (in addition to the proposals). Enforcement of pavement/bend parking is needed.

7. Evingar Road/Wells Lane crossroads

Supported to help stop pavement mounting. 

(tactile paving and drop kerbs help sight impaired and those with mobility scooters, pushchairs, etc) 

8. Newbury Road

Supported. Traffic here is too fast. Physical calming would be preferred.

9. B3400/Hillside

Supported. This is an important link from Lynch Hill Park towards the schools via Hillside. Could the 20mph area be moved east of the build out as it is on a brow of a hill and also include the Lynch Hill park junction (as it was originally planned to do). 

(tactile paving and drop kerbs help sight impaired and those with mobility scooters, pushchairs, etc) 

 10. Church Street

Supported. Road surface is poor and a crossing dropped kerb to the only accessible footpath along the river in town is much needed.

(tactile paving and drop kerbs help sight impaired and those with mobility scooters, pushchairs, etc)  

11. Daniel Road Footway

Supported.

(school access with pushchairs, scooters enhanced and conflicts with traffic removed) 

 12. Tufton – Whitchurch

Supported. The shared use route to Tufton will massively improve safety for walking/cycling on a very popular route linking the town to the countryside on what is a very fast and wide national limit road and junction.

Families and others use this to reach Tufton/the River areas and the Test Valley countryside towards Longparish.

13. A34 Slip Road

Supported. The work here is essential to remove that high risk of head on collisions at the Tufton Nun’s Walk turning.

ALL SCHEMES ARE SUPPORTED (with the comments above)

Town Centre Pavement Parking

NATIONAL LEGISLATION IN THE PIPELINE

What effect would it have on Whitchurch town centre?

Make your own mind up.

Better or Worse?

The Government is planning to introduce legislation that could ban pavement parking, following in the footsteps of laws which are already to be implemented in Scotland next year.

Living Streets details here – it is worth reading.

Link: DEALING WITH PAVEMENT PARKING

Take a look at Whitchurch centre. 

Is this acceptable?

Below: 

And given the growing popularity of cycling it is not just motor vehicles that are using the pavements.

Parking for cycles in the centre is also needed, although there has been opposition.

Existing racks are to be removed – one reason given is that they prevent vehicles going on the pavement.

Yes really.

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