To our MP – an invitation to ride

Following yet another horrendous death of a lady cycling in London being run over and crushed by a tipper truck, I have written to our MP regarding the dangers being posed by heavy vehicles on our roads.

Whitchurch already suffers far too many HGVs and with a mass of house building on the near horizon there will be a large increase in construction traffic in the town.
This will increase dangers to all who use the roads, but in particular the most vulnerable.

His reply is awaited.

UPDATE: A reminder has been sent - 2nd July – and Kit Malthouse has responded with some dates when he may be able to visit Whitchurch.
______________________________________________


To: Kit Malthouse MP, Houses of Parliament


As a Deputy Mayor in London I am sure you are aware of the increasing concerns being expressed over road safety for the most vulnerable. With yet another death under a construction vehicle, action on providing safe separated facilities for cycling in London and elsewhere, is long overdue. The very least that should be done is to restrict the movement of these vehicles at peak times. That could be introduced now.

Here in relatively calm Whitchurch we are about to see a massive increase in house building as the town is to take 350 houses as a result of government requirements. In addition the local Primary School is set to increase from 373 to 525 pupils in an area which already suffers massive traffic problems with a single access point.
Construction traffic will soon be added to what is already an almost gridlocked town, particularly at school-run times. Every day pedestrians are having to dodge vehicles as they regularly mount or are driven along pavements while many people won't cycle because of the existing dangers.

With the addition of the construction traffic the day will surely come when someone in Whitchurch is seriously injured or killed, yet action could be taken now to reduce that risk. As our MP you could help lead on this to make Whitchurch a safe place to walk and cycle. Please don't let us follow what is happening in London where a lack of action is causing deaths.

Perhaps you might support a restriction on the movement of HGVs in Whitchurch at peak times, and certainly of construction traffic when the building commences? That would be a very positive step.

Do you cycle? I have been informed you have said you do. A few years ago Sir George Young, as our excellent local MP, cycled around the town with Town and Borough Councillors and concerned residents, and looked at the traffic situations that those riding bikes have to deal with.

Would you be willing to take part in a similar exercise? Would you be able to join with a few local people and ride around the areas that are in most need of action and to support schemes to make travel in our town safer?

Perhaps a mutually convenient date could be set?

John Buckley

Left:
Previous ride of our then MP Sir George Young with Town and Borough Councillors and local residents.

(click pic to enlarge).

Uncontested Election

OUR town is YOUR Town

A year ago, with a feeling of both bewilderment at winning and honor for the selection, I took my seat for the first time on Whitchurch Town Council.
I had not expected to be elected, let alone top the poll.
However with an election of the whole Council due this May, the seat at the table was only for one year, not the customary four.

I had stood primarily because I believe strongly in local democracy and that local people need a voice, and also that local representatives should have that important 'X' placed next to their name.

Yet this year, when all 12 seats were up for election,  there have only been 10 nominations. This means all 10 have been elected through an 'Uncontested Election' and there are two vacancies.

However technically correct it may be that such candidates are still 'elected', there is something that 'irks' in the process. 'Uncontested Elections' and co-opted positions lack that immediate confirmation of acceptance from the electorate.

Notwithstanding this, every one of those who have stood have done it with good intentions – because they all believe in 'Whitchurch' and have skills and knowledge to offer. All deserve the utmost support and respect of the community as they offer their best for us all. In fact I believe there is a very good Council that works extremely well together. That regrettable period of 'resignations a couple of years back is now history.
Commitment is not in question.

So why so few candidates?

Sadly the same has happened in so many other areas. Out of 36 Parishes in the Basingstoke and Deane area that were due to hold elections this Spring, only four had residents placing that all important 'X'.
Whitchurch's ten nominations for the twelve seats was not even one of the lowest. Our neighbours in Overton fared even worse, attracting only eight nominations for their twelve seats.

This all saddens me. The fact that so few of our local residents came forward to help run the Town is disappointing. In fact it is Very Disappointing and something that I believe the Town Council needs to address.

Some may say it is apathy, others claim it is a disillusionment with local representation, which can be understandable when you look at the behaviour of some politicians. Others say "but nothing will change; what's the point?"

Making change
Well the point is that for change to take place you do need to get involved and participate in improving the Town's well-being.
Whitchurch is OUR TOWN. Its where many of US work and shop, where OUR children play and learn, where we enjoy OUR leisure, and above all where WE live.

It is a place to be proud of.

The Town Council is now trying to fill those vacant seats by co-option and has called for interested residents to offer their services.

Could you offer anything?

UPDATE
Four local residents stood for co-option Two candidates were selected and the Town Council now has its full compliment.
TWO NEW COUNCILLORS CO-OPTED

School Expansion - WHOLE Town is affected

SCHOOL EXPANSION - and Travel Strategies

Hampshire County Council has issued a consultation on expansion of the Whitchurch Primary School. This is much needed as the area's population increases and there is more pressure on school places – our children need to be educated.

It is time for joined-up thinking on an issue that reaches far wider than just the school gates.

Major conflicts
It is not just the roads adjacent to the school that have problems.
Access to the school is already at near capacity with Alliston Way, Micheldever Road and Winchester Road bearing the brunt. Meanwhile the whole town suffers major traffic congestion at 'school run' time.

When combined with the school buses, Tesco deliveries, and dustcart collections the whole town can be pretty much close to gridlock. Frustrations and conflicts set in as people are made late for work and dangers increase as drivers even take to pavements.

Heaven help us if there was an emergency at this time. This effects us all, whether we walk, cycle or drive, and whether we are from outside or from within the town.

This is a Whole-Town issue, it's not just about the school. 

Space
The fact is we are reaching a situation where we just don't have the space to continue current expectations of free and easy travel.
Hampshire want to increase the school pupil numbers by around 40% to cater for increasing numbers of children in the area. This comes on the heels of Basingstoke Borough requiring the town to take at least 350 new houses, and the County's decision not to expand Overton Primary school

An alternative?
Many are already complaining about impending gridlock; that only Whitchurch children should go to Whitchurch schools, and that playing fields will need to be tarmaced over for car parks.
However, there is an alternative – we have an opportunity – one for change, and one where perhaps we should be looking at our whole attitude towards local travel.
But it needs Joined-up Thinking.

So where are the opportunities?
At the moment they are rather fragmented, but wouldn't it be good if everyone could work together for a common aim – the benefit of Whitchurch?
There are a number of travel-based issues that are all arising at the same time.

Could they not all be considered together?
Is it too much to ask for all parts of this jigsaw to fit together?

Here are EIGHT pieces. 
Will they be considered together, or in isolation?

JIGSAW PART ONE

SCHOOL TRAVEL PLAN – REVIEW
As part of the Primary School's expansion Hampshire County Council say they are to revise their Travel Plan. There is a massive rise in obesity in children, along with increasing risks of coronary illnesses and greater chance of diabetes, all caused by a lack of exercise, while child social development is being hindered by a lack of play and independence. Travel Plans can help address these issues through various initiatives if properly implemented. HCC say the Plan sets out measures to "Encourage and enable pupils, parents, guardians and staff to walk and cycle to school."Review of their Travel Plan and how the School interacts with the local community is long overdue, the last being over ten years ago. 
HCC needs to involve the whole local community in its consultation.

JIGSAW PART TWO

WHITCHURCH NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
Over the last 2 years the Whitchurch Neighbourhood Plan has been developed by a Steering Committee under the auspices of the Town Council. This has included widespread public consultation on how the town should develop and how it can cater for 350 new homes. Traffic and parking were a prime concern in the public feedback while second in the list of community wishes was the need for improved walking and cycling routes.
This should be built upon and implemented.

JIGSAW PART THREE

BOROUGH CYCLING / WALKING STRATEGY
In April Basingstoke and Deane commenced consultation on a Cycling Strategy for the Borough and has appointed Sustrans, a national sustainable transport charity to assist. A mapping exercise is underway to determine best routes for walking and cycling, but at the moment it is very much Basingstoke Town biased. Whitchurch and the rural areas need to be fully involved. Deadlines are imminent.
Local residents should be able to input their views.

JIGSAW PART FOUR

COUNTY 'ROAD USERS' CONSULTATIONS
While Basingstoke and Deane are creating their Cycling Strategy for the Borough, Hampshire County Council have announced their own "which will be going out to public consultation, in the next few weeks, and we are welcoming comments/views, form various organisations who use the roads, including cyclists, drivers, pedestrians and public transport passengers."
It is not certain why there are two separate 'strategies' being developed but... 
Local input is essential.

JIGSAW PART FIVE

B3400 / WELLS-IN-THE-FIELD / OVERTON
Part of the requirement for the new school places is the need to cater for children from around Whitchurch, other areas being Overton and Freefolk/Laverstoke. There has long been a need for a safe footpath / cycle route along the B3400 and in particular to Wells-in-the-Field. With the opening of the new Gin Distillery Visitors' Centre, this latter link is of even more importance. Early in 2014 a feasibility study was produced and in April this year the Town Council was given the excellent news that "the legal process was under way to create a new footpath which would incorporate a cycle route, and funding had been secured through developer contributions."
This should now be pushed forward with vigour.

JIGSAW PART SIX

PARKING
Throughout the town parking is a major concern as shown in the Neighbourhood Plan responses. Much illegal parking on pavements, verges and corners takes place that adds danger to all road users. Along with the creation of safe routes across town to access homes, shops, schools, workplaces and community amenites, parking needs addressing as part of a whole transport strategy for Whitchurch. Provision of special drop off areas around the town may be part of a solution to easing traffic congestion, while time restrictions could be placed on HGV loading / deliveries.
The Neighbourhood Plan has a major part to play.

JIGSAW PART SEVEN

'WALKERS ARE WELCOME' ACCREDITATION
Walking has always been a popular activity in Whitchurch, and the local Walking for Health group has gone from strength to strength often with more than 50 taking part on their organised walks. A local charity, the Whitchurch Association, is presently applying for the town to be accredited as a 'Walkers are Welcome' location, a nationally recognised listing. The Town Council has already given its support.
This can be built upon.

NEW ITEM ADDED 12th May:
JIGSAW PART EIGHT

KNOWLINGS AFFORDABLE HOUSING additional traffic
The Town Council and HARAH (Hampshire Alliance for Rural Affordable Housing) are supporting the building of 25 homes on the nearby Knowlings field, which will have the same traffic access as used by the Primary School. a) will pedestrian/cycle routes be linked to the school, and b) are Hampshire County Council working on a traffic plan to accommodate other local traffic which will be generated by this development?
Are all local agencies working together?

               

SUMMARY
Perhaps the school expansion can be the real catalyst for all the agencies to work together and help create an environment of which both they and the people who live and work in Whitchurch can be proud.

Involvement of local people is paramount in this, but will they be consulted in meaningful ways? Will those who oversee and spend our taxes allow that to happen?

WE MUST INSIST THEY DO.

Parking? Should it be a free-for-all?

Can someone explain Parking Provisions as they relate to Planning Regulations to me?

On-road 'parking' is raised as one of the most contentious subjects in Whitchurch and creates a wide range of opinions from many different viewpoints. Many believe that more should be provided, while others argue the opposite.

What is generally agreed by Planning rules is that new housing should have space for vehicles incorporated, so as not to add pressures to our over-crowded road systems. Roads are in place primarily for the movement of people and goods, including for personal travel, commercial services and emergency vehicles. They are not provided as private parking spaces, although some have specific areas allocated for parking.

As a result there are Planning standards laid down for incorporation of off-road parking into developments. This may be in the form of garage spaces or off-road hard-standings, or a combination of both.

So what happens when someone wants to convert a garage (a vehicle space) into a bedroom or office and they then submit a planning application?

I have no problems with such conversions except that they displace 'parking/vehicle' spaces – but should not part of a planning application require the provision of a replacement off-road space?

Or doesn't it matter?

Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council seem to think not as they have allowed such applications, which add more pressure to our roads.

So if it doesn't matter, why do we have any standards being imposed in the first place?

Which raises the question: Should parking be a complete free-for-all?

Remember that pothole?

UPDATE 12th April 2015.
Remember that Evingar Road pothole that Hampshire County Council had claimed they had fixed – but hadn't? Previous article:  FIXING THOSE POTHOLES

After apparently carrying out the work, saying they had fixed the pothole, it STILL looked like this:

I decided to follow up this unacceptable misinformation with our County Councillor Tom Thacker.

I was pleased to receive the following response:

**********************
20th March 2015

Dear John,

Having had a look at the photograph on your attachment, highway engineers have located the pothole in question... [and] ...this morning have raised an order for the pothole to be repaired.
This should be done by Monday 24 March at the latest. (my emphasis)

Kind Regards

Tom T

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

It is now April 12th and have Hampshire carried out the work as Councillor Thacker had promised?

NO.

This picture was taken TODAY, 12th April, - compare it to the one above:

Nothing – zilch - has been done. Zero; nothing.

This pothole and road surface is potentially lethal and could easily throw someone off a cycle or motorbike, and could possibly damage motor vehicles too.
In fact it is now getting worse with considerable amounts of loose grit now being thrown on to the pavement and a further hole developing.
Hampshire County Council continue to claim to have fixed it while road users lives continue to remain at risk.

Meanwhile we are also paying for our roads to be maintained.

Housing in Whitchurch – Local views ignored

Most local people will be aware of the planning application that was made for housing on the Bloswood Lane allotments in Whitchurch.

The owners, the Hospital of St Cross, had applied for permission to build 34 houses on this very special site.

The Whitchurch Town Council opposed the development,

• so did the Whitchurch Neighbourhood Plan team,
• so did the local Borough Councillor,
• so did Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council,
• so too did many residents,
• as did many allotment holders themselves.

BUT – Despite this overwhelming local opposition a Government Inspector dismissed all these objections and has allowed the building to proceed.

This is a real sad decision for the town and for local democracy and shows we ALL need to work together against awful decisions like this that over-ride Whitchurch wishes.

So much for localism.

With a national election coming up I hope our candidates will be thinking hard about how they will represent local views.

THEY SHOULD BE ASKED

Fixing those Potholes - Really?

DON'T BELIEVE ALL YOU ARE TOLD

They called it 'Operation Resilience' and it was supposed to use our taxes to fix our roads and potholes for several years ahead by making repairs 'more permanent'. But is Hampshire County Council's scheme working or was this just all a PR 'soundbite'?

There is a standing joke when I'm dealing with helping people ride cycles, in that the potholes are put there to help improve bike handling skills. Certainly they require agility in swerving, bunny hopping, and in the worst cases the ability to fall off without causing much harm to yourself - don't flail arms out!

But are these skills becoming more necessary, and are Hampshire fixing the roads as they claim?

A pothole or broken road surface can cause damage to all vehicles and can have potentially lethal effects on someone on two wheels, throwing them off their machine and possibly under the wheels of other traffic. But is this very real threat to life taken seriously?

Which brings me to a particular local Whitchurch example – the Evingar road pothole.

There is an area towards the top of Evingar Road that has been reported several times – and several times it has been 'fixed'. Repeatedly the repair has broken up and further remedial work has been required.

However the latest incident takes the biscuit. The pothole was again reported and HCC rightly acknowledged it required fixing, then said works had been undertaken – but... had they?

See for yourself.

ONE – 22nd February 2015
This potentially lethal pothole and road surface was reported to HCC, with an exact location, and the the number of the house of which it was outside being provided.

TWO – 23rd February 2015
HCC acknowledged receipt.

Enquiry Reference: 21143592
Enquiry Type: Carriageway Pothole Defect
Location: EVINGAR ROAD

"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."
__________

THREE – 3rd March 2015
HCC acknowledging a problem existed.

"The enquiry you raised has been inspected and does require action."
__________

FOUR – 5th March 2015
It would seem very good news. HCC say they have fixed it.

"Our contractor has made safe or repaired the reported problem."
__________

FIVE – 11th March 2015
I passed by the site of the safe/repaired pothole:

And you can compare it to the first picture. Err...

__________

MORAL
Operation Resilience?
You certainly need to be resilient when dealing with HCC.
Don't believe them when they say they have fixed something and continue to practice those bike handling skills.

We need to lobby HCC and our representatives at County level to ensure our roads are kept fit for purpose and safe for all, whatever mode of transport is used, motor or human powered.

Ashamed – Is this what Whitchurch needs?

"20mph where people live" – who would have thought it would be so controversial – certainly not me but apparently it can enrage some beyond what many would deem to be acceptable behaviour.

Last weekend I heard of near violence and verbal abuse against a local family who simply believe a lower speed of 20mph would be beneficial to their well-being. They are as much entitled to their views as are those who oppose reducing speed limits, yet some anti-20mph protestors had gone as far as seeking out the family's home to deliver their vitriol and personal threats.

Ashamed
I was ashamed that this was in a community I hold dear and in high regard; one where support for fellow residents is the usual order of the day and where strangers still greet each other in the street.
Opinions on speed limits are divided, but whatever one's own viewpoint, respect for your neighbours and their rights to hold their own views is of paramount importance in a civilised society, otherwise we descend into anarchy.

Is personal transport so important that a reduction of a few mph justifies such behaviour? Wait until petrol runs out; when congestion leads to total gridlock and when food or emergency services can no longer be delivered – what will the reactions be then?
I like to think we would work together rather than fight each other, but on recent showings I am not hopeful. If a 20mph scheme creates such aggression what will a fuel drought cause?

But it gets worse
Whilst the above incident was appalling, on the very same day it was reported that another family man was physically attacked on the town's zebra crossing in front of his children. A driver had needed to stop to allow them to cross. Unhappy at the delay the driver got out of his car and violently attacked the pedestrian, leaving his face swollen and bruised.

Is this reaction to being held up for a few seconds acceptable in our town? Or anywhere? Is a few seconds of time so important that it warrants physical harm?

No one should be at the end of this treatment.
Today I did not feel happy walking in my town.

Infrastructure – A Reply from Sir George

Following the request to Sir George Young MP to support the amendment to create a Cycling and Walking Strategy within the Government's Infrastructure Bill, which could have an effect on local safe routes around Whitchurch, he replied positively.

See the request here: 
SUPPORT ACTIVE TRAVEL 

His full response is given below.
 __________________________________________

 

Rt Hon Sir George Young Bt CH MP
Church Close Andover Hampshire SP10 IDP 
Tel: 01264 401401 

E-mail: sirgeorge@sirgeorgeyoung.org.uk 
Website: wwwsirgeorgeyoung.org.uk 



28 January 2015

Dear John

Thank you for your email about the Infrastructure Bill 

In terms of a long term vision to increase cycling and walking, and ring-fenced funding, last year the Department for Transport published a draft Cycling Delivery Plan. The Plan sets out how the Government aims to make the UK a cycling nation, and enable walking and cycling to become the natural choices for shorter journeys, or, as part of a longer journey, for all. The draft Delivery Plan included a number of Government commitments and actions over the next 10 years, as well as quantified national ambitions: one to double cycling and one to increase the percentage of primary school children who usually walk to school from 48 per cent to 55 per cent, by 2025. We debated the Plan last year, and I spoke in that debate.

As part of this plan, the Government said it would work with local government and business to see how a minimum funding equivalent of £10 per person can be met each year by 2020–21 – and sooner if possible. The Government also proposed to set up partnerships with local authorities where – in exchange for signing up to a series of actions to deliver ambitious changes in cycling and walking – local authorities would receive access to supportive planning tools and incentives, including priority access to new funding.

Views were sought on the draft plan and I'm glad that Ministers will outline shortly in more detail how they will take forward ideas to encourage more cycling and walking.

As a keen cyclist myself, I was pleased that the Government added an amendment to the Infrastructure Bill on Monday which is designed to create a "cycling and walking investment strategy" with dedicated funding.
This amendment will form part of the Government's ongoing wider action to encourage more walking and cycling. I listened to that debate and the amendment was welcomed by the Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Cycling. I will keep a close eye on progress.

Best wishes.

Yours sincerely,

Sir George Young

Prayers at Council Meetings?

A fellow Councillor has recently raised the issue of holding a prayer before commencement of a Town Council meeting.

Some may have seen the resultant local press coverage. It claimed "heated" debate and "deadlock" and tried to sensationalise what was a very polite, although robust discussion. This is unhelpful in building a positive perception of the Council and how well it works as a team.

Are they "Intimidating"
In calling for a halt to prayers the Councillor said he found them to be 'intimidating'.

Now that is wholly a personal opinion to which anyone is entitled, and whether you agree or not, in a society of tolerance his views should be respected.
He also pointed out that a High Court judgement has ruled that prayers were not to be part of Council Meetings; but is holding one immediately before the gavel falls acceptable?

Divisive?
I don't feel comfortable with this subject, not on any religious grounds, but because it has a high risk of being a divisive issue that polarises; and that cannot be good for harmonious working.

Emotive issue
I kept silent in the first discussion at the Council table because I considered it to be entirely a private and personal matter, but it clearly does go deeper. The final vote was split showing it to be emotive and needing further thought: with 3 for, 3 against, and 5 abstaining.
Hence it was deferred for a later decision.

One argument that resonated with me was that a pre-meeting message could focus minds on the purpose of the Council in serving the local community.

This point of focusing minds before a meeting starts is a certainly a good one. We may have had hard days at work or just rushed to the meeting after tea with the kids to feed, and so on...
A reminder of the role of Councillors can only, in my opinion, be beneficial – a reminder that decisions are for the community and not for ourselves is important.

Is the word the problem?
So perhaps it is that word 'prayer' that is the real problem as it implies being more than just a message; a prayer being 'a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or another deity', while "Amen" with its meaning of 'so be it' strengthens the religious overtones that my colleague objects so much to.

Meanwhile words like 'contemplation' or  'reflection' lead towards the 'bowed-head' syndrome, so perhaps they should be avoided too. Conversely words like 'celebration' may result in whoops of joyful enthusiasm and the waving of arms, again maybe not appropriate. Isn't our language wonderful.
So do we need a neutral balance – something everyone can relate to?

A reminder? – A 'Declaration of Purpose'?
To this end, I would personally support a non-religious opening to the meeting, reminding us of our duties – and simply call it something like a 'Declaration of Purpose', avoiding that word 'prayer' and others with similar overtones.

Then let's move on and get on with serving our town and its people.

It will be interesting to see how this issue unfolds, though I am sure any resolution will be made amicably and in good spirit.

That is how Whitchurch works :-)

That Precept rise

How the Town Council finances itself and the services it provides has been a steep learning curve for me in a first year as a Councillor. What is most important is that it is fair and that the Town Council is accountable to local residents.

Local finance
The precept is an amount raised locally within the Whitchurch Parish and I learned that for several years it has remained static, even falling one year. It helps pay towards services such as street lighting, footpaths, play areas, some local grants, and the administration of allotments and the cemetery.

Uncomfortable
When next year's 2015/16 draft budget was presented I found myself learning something which caused me to feel quite uncomfortable. For several years the Town Council has been regularly using its reserves. I had not been prepared for the results of this. Contingency funds are necessary, being required for unforeseen or emergency needs – costs to the Town Hall following HSBCs unpopular decision to leave the town being one example; last year's flooding being another.

It was obvious that unless this drain on the accounts was addressed the Council could find itself with very severe problems as it would have lost its back up. The situation has also been made worse as local services by Basingstoke & Deane Borough and Hampshire County Councils are being drastically cut, placing even more pressure on the Town Council.

Need to be pro-active
At the first budget meeting I initially abstained but made the request that I could only support an increase if the Town Council looked into raising funds through initiating a more pro-active strategy on raising income. Perhaps it could be more commercial in its outlook and investigate alternative ways of funding its activities - weddings in the Town Hall anyone?

Rise necessary
It became clear that for this year, in order to just stand still, a rise is necessary, which has been agreed. This works out at an increase of £13.29 a year for a Band D property, or just over 25 pence a week. In pure percentage terms there is no doubt it looks bad – up 32% – and of course the press has inevitably picked that up as a headline figure. However, for just four pints of beer a year, the reserves are not being further depleted, and on the plus side this is the first increase for a number of years.

The previous administrations had good reasons for using the contingency funds and I respect the decisions they made, but I hope a different approach and especially with the support of the local community and businesses, any possible future increases can be less of an impact.

I still feel slightly uncomfortable, but a one-off rise of £13.29 should put the Council on a good footing for the future.

All my personal opinion of course. PLEASE let me know if you disagree.

Now let's see how much Basingstoke and Hampshire want from us.

Letter to MP - Active Travel

Today I wrote to my MP about an amendment to the Infrastructure Bill, and how it should support active travel.

_____________________________

Dear Sir George,

I hope you will be able to support the APPCG amendment to the Infrastructure Bill on Monday afternoon, so that funding for cycling can be increased through a Cycling & Walking Investment Strategy.

Our infrastructure for cycling really is not fit for purpose, with any work made on a piecemeal basis and usually at standards far below which are either safe or useable. A long-term vision to provide adequate funding is badly required, along with a clear statement of the level of funds to be allocated.

As you are aware in Whitchurch we have some serious issues with cycle provision and the dangers and risks of using the present roads is high. The B3400 between Whitchurch and Overton, along with any routes to schools and workplaces are of high need of investment. With the increased housing and traffic being planned, provision for walking and cycling becomes even more important.

Right: 
There is still no safe route along the B3400.

Each morning when my son and daughter leave home to cycle to work in Andover and Overton on these inadequate roads it is more than worrying. Only earlier this week a young driver was left fighting for their life after another crash on the B3400. Should cyclists have to use these same roads? No; provision should be safe and segregated.

Meanwhile the roads in Whitchurch are congested and overflowing, with drivers using pavements regularly while others try and walk or cycle their children to school. There is little adequate safe provision, even for these short journeys.

Left: No safety on pavements.

Similar situations are present throughout the county and the country, with the UK falling far behind our continental neighbours in support for sustainable and active travel.

As a keen cyclist yourself I know you recognise these issues, so I call on you to support the Amendment and speak in favour of its acceptance.

I look forward to hearing from you,

Best wishes,

John

John Buckley

Whitchurch Bicycle Users Group
Hampshire Cycle Training
Whitchurch Cycling

More information and how to contact your MP are here:
AMENDMENT TO INFRASTRUCTURE BILL

A rant on traffic conflicts

Today - a short rant.

Today I've been reading a number of articles and postings mainly on social media about increasing conflicts between those driving motor vehicles and those walking or riding bikes – "those cyclists hold me up, they are in the way, they slow me down", go the arguments!

Polarised discussion leads to tensions
All too often it seems in such discussions opinions become very polarised and can degenerate into a verbal aggression that does nothing other than send participants mumbling away into a deep rage of increasing tension.

Traffic affects us all and indeed is the most raised issue in our own Whitchurch Neighbourhood Plan. Everyone wants to get where they want to go NOW - without any delays, hindrances, or inconvenience. That is a natural and understandable expectation after we have enjoyed many years of an unhindered 'freedom of movement'.

But times are changing and that freedom is becoming more difficult to maintain.

Headlines are more important than local action
Massive investment in million-pound headline-grabbing transport schemes, that have little effect on local journeys, are crippling our system and the country's finances. While billions are poured into reducing congestion at particular roundabouts and large junctions little is carried out at local level - to the pavements, walkways, cycleways and safe road crossing points.
Even if that massive multi-million pound grade separated gyratory is fast flowing, what use is it if you are blocked in at your own local front gate and cannot even reach it?

The vulnerable suffer most
Frustrations set in as this garden gate local congestion worsens. Tensions increase, fists get waved and dangers rise. The resultant mix leads to the most vulnerable usually suffering the worst consequences. Those who walk to school and the shops or cycle to local workplace have difficulty crossing roads, or dealing with increasingly aggressive road users. Drivers squeeze past each other or mounting the  narrow Whitchurch pavements, while cyclists also take to footways in fear of their lives. None of this is good for the pedestrians trying to go about their daily lives.

Soundbites matter. Or do they?
Working together on integrated plans is essential, but our 'leaders' too often seek quick soundbite wins - ones that too often blame victims for not adapting while they fail to address the direct causes.
Its not just in traffic management/investment we are seeing this, but throughout other strands of society too - health, education, welfare, policing.

Meanwhile our they throw out a hi-viz here or print a leaflet there along with a press statement claiming how much they are 'doing'.

Meanwhile years pass, and we STILL wait for a safe route to Wells-in-the-Field.Come on hampshire County Council – this needs sorting NOW.

Is giving up the right option?
Today someone said they were "giving up cycling" – in some aspects an understandable reaction given the worsening state of our roads but is giving up a good option for a healthy, safe or sustainable future.

Over 80% of 'cyclists' are also drivers and nearly every driver is also a pedestrian. This issue goes deep  into both the respect and care we have for each other while trying to live in a culture where government seems to give cares little for either.

Need for an integrated approach
All road users are on 'the same side' whatever mode of travel they choose. Let's remove those conflicts by understanding where the dangers are and addressing them realistically by an integrated approach.I'm hoping our Neighbourhood Plan may help here.
Only then can we create a pleasant safe environment for everyone.

Here endeth today's rant.

More Heads on the Block

Having started off a project to improve communications – the time came to actually do it and a series of sessions are being arranged at the Town Hall.

Walking around town I get approached by people who raise various issues that they believe "The Council" should fix. These rangefrom the size of lorries and the need for affordable homes, to the clocks changing and the costs of eggs.

While chatting in the street is useful, it can be a bit hit and miss. 

Some things can be taken forward (not just clocks) but many can't and it can be very frustrating for everyone concerned. The Town Council does not have very many 'powers', but it can have 'influence' and it can pass on residents' needs and opinions to the appropriate bodies with some degree of authority.
So chat to your Councillors!
All Councillors are available and accessible and their contact details are on the Town Council's website, but this can also be built upon through open these sessions

Let's ensure local views are heard.

The recently approved Communication Plan aims to do just that.

Keep an eye out for its activities.
Or send a message.

The Edge Project

The Edge Project? What's that?

It has just completed its first of two years at the Silk Mill, and this was an invitation to learn what it was all about, and what had been achieved. I had heard of it but knew little of its detail. It was to be an eye-opener.

Young people often have a 'Mixed Press' but this was more than interesting, and it was here, right in the centre of Whitchurch.
This Lottery-funded project is best explained by an extract from its website:

'The EDGE Project is Hampshire Museums and Galleries Trust initiative which gives young people the opportunity to organise and run events. These events can be almost anything, there is just one condition: They have to be staged in or around a Hampshire Museum, Art Centre, Discovery Centre, Theatre, Library or Gallery.'

In Whitchurch it is at the Silk Mill.

The evening's introduction by local co-ordinator Zoe Vinery gave an insight to all the wonderful activities and events arranged over the last year from building a Dyer's Garden and Mini-Beast trail, to running a mad-hatters tea party and easter egg hunt. Over 3,700 people had been engaged during The Edge Project events over the year and it had provided massive confidence building and experience for young people from the Whitchurch area and beyond.

Elliot Burns was one who had become involved and he showed a tempting preview of a film he has been working on at the Mill - 'The Water Ghost' – it sent some shivers through a few of those watching. When can we see the rest of it?

Time was then allowed to enjoy the refreshments, talk to some of the young people involved, and to look around the Mill at various displays of work by the Project.
These included the wonderful D-Day 70 Commemorative Silk designed by placement student Hannah Futcher, and the weirdly colourful 'Power of Water' installation in the river created with the Primary School.
Go and have a look for yourself to work out what it does.

The presentation concluded with a short film showing some of the skills of weaving, and the creation of the WWI Commemorative Silk. See:
MAKING THE WWI COMMEMORATIVE SILK

Meanwhile Zoe also modelled a special silk poppy which has been designed to raise funds in conjunction with the Royal British Legion.

Our Deputy Mayor Barry Jackman also attended along with various helpers and volunteers at the Mill for what was a very informative and relaxing evening in a terrific setting – but my lasting memory will be the discovery of all the creative work that has been going on on our doorstep and how this is all so very worthwhile.

Projects such as this that allow young people to take control of activities and which develop their skills while giving something back to the community need all our support.
Why not pop along to the Mill to find out more.
Website:
THE EDGE PROJECT IN WHITCHURCH

Lights, Camera, Action...

Become a Film Star - be famous the world over.

But more of that later.

Of the subjects that seem to raise most cackles in Whitchurch, the mention of dogs and the mess their owners sometimes allow them to leave must rate amongst the highest.
Few can fail to be disgusted by the deposits left on pavements, parks and open spaces – and it must be one of the most complained about issues in the town.

It only takes one
Most dog owners take their responsibilities of ownership seriously, but it only takes one who fails to clear up to cause problems for all.
Despite press articles, promotions, notices, posters and competitions, there remain a few who continue to show a complete lack of regard towards others. They just do not care and every day fresh deposits appear.

The Town Council office receives numerous complaints but with limited resources and a lack of available enforcement from Basingstoke and Deane, the problem continues.

Is it time for a different approach?
As deterrents are not working perhaps it is time for a hard-hitting focused campaign to catch and actively prosecute the culprits. 
Threats of large fines and the resultant shame hold no weight with those who habitually stick the two fingers up to social responsibility. With no enforcement they know they can do so with impunity.
But what if they were being watched and recorded, as has apparently been implemented elsewhere?

Smile Please, you are on camera
Hart District Council, Basingstoke's neighbours to the east, has been reported as having used two £200 mobile cameras. They claim a reduction in offending by 60%.
With courts also now giving much more weight to video evidence, even when taken by individuals, perhaps Whitchurch should follow in Hart's footsteps.

There is a news story about Hart's 'enforcement' here:

DAILY ECHO REPORT ON DOG CAMERAS

As much as I dislike the culture of increasing CCTV, in this case I believe that such outlay may be  worthwhile and am pleased that the Town Council is now to investigate it as a possibility for Whitchurch.
What do others think?

...and, if implemented, does anyone have a name for the subsequent film?

A Scourge of our Whitchurch Pavements?

When it comes to safety on our pavements those riding bicycles often receive much condemnation.  I have little time for those who endanger pedestrians and they give cycling a very bad name, but are they the greatest risk?

A young lady was recently seen to ride the full length of Winchester Street on the pavement - but was it because she was frightened of how the roads are used today? Had it been instilled into her at a young age how dangerous 'roads' are? If that's the case, shouldn't we be addressing that danger?

Driving on pavements 
While pavement cycling often receives the harshest complaints drivers seem to be able drive on and park on our pavements and verges with impunity, causing obstructions and increasing dangers to all who move around on foot – whether it be for shopping, taking children to school, or going to work.
It is not the 'roads' which are dangerous but how they are used.

Regular obstructions
Yet the same laws that apply to cycling also apply to motor vehicles – a very old Highways Act of 1835 – but every day in Whitchurch vehicles are seen driving onto and being parked on pavements. The town's social media regularly sees complaints, yet the practice continues and little or no action is taken.

Over-sized vehicles
However, many of the problems are by the drivers of over-sized commercial vehicles, complete with few safety features and many blind spots. These have been allowed to become far too large for the streets and narrow footways of a small rural town like Whitchurch.

They drive across road corners, crack kerbstones, knock down street furniture, break paving slabs, damage inspection covers and even swipe pieces off our historic buildings.

All this is at a massive cost both in physical damage and quality of life. Children, the elderly, and those with sight and mobility difficulties are most at risk.

Streets are for people
Streets are for all people but is this something we have allowed to be lost; and need to redress? The Town Council has responded where it can but has very limited powers, however it can try and influence the decision makers on behalf of local residents.

Access must remain
Many people do need to drive into and around town. It needs to be easy for those whose livelihood and lifestyles require access and this must remain. Deliveries and access for essential services must be able to continue, but the impact on safety,  damage and the fabric of out town must also be addressed.

Prevention
In a number of places dragons teeth – chamfered wooden posts – have been installed in verges to prevent anti-social and illegal parking; the most recent being in Winchester Road. These protect the ground, reduce obstructions and help maintain our open space but what else could be done? How can we return our footways to places for safe walking, rather than for the dodging of the motor vehicle?

What could be done?
Perhaps placing restrictions on HGV sizes at certain times of the day? Maybe banning large vehicles that don't have side protection bars? Perhaps a rogues gallery of pavement parking? Maybe reporting of commercial companies that put our safety in danger? Perhaps even employing a Whitchurch 'warden' who could issue on the spot penalties?

Any ideas would be very welcome.

The next time it may not just be a bollard that is knocked over.

Community SpeedWatch - some thoughts

Last week I attended a Community SpeedWatch meeting in Basingstoke.  It was quite eye opening on several levels, given that it can be a contentious subject.

The following are my personal views from that meeting.

Firstly it was very well-attended with a mix of representatives from existing groups, and several just trying to find out more.

The meeting was led by Chief Superintendent Dave Powell who has overall responsibility for the schemes in Hampshire.

Driver education
SpeedWatch schemes are designed for educating drivers rather than enforcement. Presently the volunteers record drivers who exceed limits then log these with the Police. Drivers may then receive advisory letters and visits, but SpeedWatch in itself does not lead to prosecutions.

However it was also made clear that the Police are intending to make better use of the information from SpeedWatch, perhaps as intelligence for locations for enforcement by the Police Roads Policing Unit that could lead to legal proceedings for speeding.

Starting a Scheme
Setting up a scheme is fairly easy. There needs to be six volunteers including a local Coordinator, ownership or access to a SID (Speed Indicator Device) and ancillary equipment, plus support from the Parish/Town Council.
Total outlay is in the region of £2500 for the equipment with match funding of £1000 presently available for around 70 new schemes from the Police. Ongoing costs are small – just maintenance and new pencils. To break a misconception, no hair dryers are required.
Volunteers need to complete an application form, be approved by the Police and undergo training – and a scheme can be set up within a couple of months.

Locations
The local SpeedWatch groups select the locations which are then checked to ensure they are suitable on safety grounds - for insurance purposes. SpeedWatch can take place in 40, 30, and 20mph areas.
I wonder where would be best in Whitchurch?
Winchester Street? Newbury Hill? Evingar Road? London Road? 

Some concerns
Despite reassurances, I came away with some niggling concerns, particularly after one attendee wanted a more 'Police-like' uniform – the word vigilante came to mind.
That scares me more than a bit. But speeding is a crime, it frightens people, and is a factor in many deaths and injuries.
I have also heard of someone who thinks it should be used for collecting information for other uses other than driver education. Is that a valid use of SpeedWatch? I'm unsure. There is a risk people with hidden agendas could become involved.

I also question whether the finance should instead go towards more local policing, but looking at the limited funds being made available, and seeing the massive cuts being made to the Police, that would look to be pie-in-the-sky.

I am undecided
At the moment I am very much keeping an open mind as despite my concerns there are benefits too. Road crashes are the biggest single killer of our young people and excess speed is very often a cause. I oppose the cuts that the Police force is presently suffering and question some of the priorities being set by our Government and County Council.

For what it's worth: MY CONCLUSION 
I have reservations, unless it is controlled and managed fairly, used correctly, and there is full trust in those running it.

You could not make this up

Should an 8-year old to walk to school over two miles along one of Hampshire's worst roads?

Rotten Hill on the B3400 between Laverstoke and Overton is one of the most feared roads in the area, and indeed was recently reported as having the third worst collision rate in Hampshire and worst in the Basingstoke & Deane Borough. Collisions are many, near misses even more, while vehicles often mount the poorly maintained unlit roadside pavement.
Yet a mother is reported as being expected to allow her 8-year old son to walk over two miles along this dangerous road to reach his Primary School in Overton. She has reported that the County Council have informed her they are removing the previously provided pupil taxi-service, despite her suffering a medical condition that prevents driving herself.

Further danger to come
The road is already treacherous, and will become even more so with the opening of the Bombay Sapphire Distillery and Visitors Centre, which is expected to attract over 100,000 visitors a year, plus hundreds of extra lorry and coach movements.

And that is before taking into account the massive increases in housing planned in both Whitchurch and Overton together with its associated employment and school traffic journeys.

Not fit for purpose
So welcome to the world of HCC's road safety strategies. Requests to improve this road go ignored - yet this road is not fit for purpose. The County takes millions from the government for the Sustainable Transport Fund and supports the building of bus stations like Andover, while at the same time cutting bus services. In whose world do they live?

Why not provide safe routes?
What about making cycling and walking safer? Why not provide a safe segregated walking/cycling route? And in this family's case why not let the child travel in the HCC taxi which is already passing their front door as it travels from Whitchurch to Overton? Did I mention they had so far not allowed that?
Instead they seem to expect the 8-year old to walk immediately adjacent to all the speeding lorries and buses.
The family is of course appealing. Let's hope sense is seen.

Is the emphasis wrong?
It should be asked why are Hampshire's casualty figures for the most vulnerable road users amongst the worst in the country? Perhaps it is because their emphasis on handing out leaflets and hi-viz materials is just a box-ticking sticking plaster which some claim verges on victim-blaming, while their refusal to invest adequately in safe routes or enforce speed limits just beggars belief given the benefits to all.

Appeal, but note the day chosen
Meanwhile the mother frets and awaits their final decision. Five months later another site visit is being made to re-assess the route – and they choose a day when the local Secondary schools are closed so the buses, taxis, parent-run trips between Overton and Whitchurch are much reduced.
You couldn't make that up if you tried.

Young people have died here
As these HCC road safety 'experts' and their Councillors walk over Rotten Hill they should stop gather their thoughts at a roadside memorial – which the 8-year old would  pass each day.
The cross and plaque to an 18-year old young lady who lost her life when in a car that left this road, should be a poignant reminder of their responsibilities to provide safe travel for all.

"the most dangerous stretch of road"
At the time of that tragic loss, several comments were made regarding the safety of this stretch of road, including by one local resident: "I lived in the area for 19 years, and it is in my opinion the most dangerous stretch of road I've come across. Something has to be done."

HCC Councillors please take note, that was five years ago.
More incidents have occurred since and nothing has been done.

Please make a sensible decision for the sake of this family, then look seriously at the dangers on this and other roads that affect us all.

(note that these views are entirely my own)

Improving Communications in Whitchurch

Whitchurch Town Council is to have a new Communications team

What is the best way to share news, opinions and ideas?

There is no doubt that the Town Council has gone through an unfortunate rocky patch with the recent resignations, together with the associated press and social media fallout.

There has been a massive change with half the Council having joined in the last seven months - with SIX new volunteer Councillors elected or co-opted.
 
This means new ideas and approaches may come to the fore – and good communication becomes even more important than ever. All public bodies needs to be open and approachable or they cannot serve the people it represents. 
Whitchurch Town Council should be no different.

Effective communication builds trust and confidence and can generate wider interest, increase active involvement, and improve greater understanding within the town about 'how it works'. After all, who fully knows who is responsible what, be in Town, Borough or County?

THE PLANS

I thought I would present a proposal to the Town Council – pleasingly it was accepted.

Over the coming months improvements are to be made in how the Town Council communicates with local residents with a small team being established to oversee this.

This is a chance for local people to be more involved.

Amongst the plans there will be production of a simple and easily read news bulletin to highlight the work of the Town Council and its responsibilities. Personal contact is to be encouraged together with opportunities to tour the Town Hall and ask questions of Councillors.
In addition online presence will be developed with greater use of social media channels, something that has had some discussion on the town's Facebook pages.

It is hoped to promote a culture of openness, accessibility, and two-way communication – and with it an improved understanding of the role of the Town Council in our wonderful town.

It won't happen overnight and will be a slow process but the whole town could work together on this. 

If anyone has any suggestions as to how they would like this to develop, please be in touch.