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.

•

Why I voted against Council Budget

This year I chose to vote against the Town Council's proposed budget for 2020/21 as I believe funds are better used for local amenities and services than covering increasing administration costs.

This was my response I made to the proposals which were for increasing the Precept by 4.1% AND using over £13,000 of reserves to cover increasing costs.
______

As our town increases in size and at the same time cuts are being made by both Basingstoke and Hampshire Councils it falls more on the Town Council to provide for our residents.

Indeed HCC said at their Parish workshop last year “It is The Age of the Parish” ie they expect Parishes to take on more responsibilities.

We have choices; to accept the situation that our services and infrastructure will suffer more, or shift focus towards making our town a better place.

Last autumn, committees were asked to look at ‘savings’ which was primarily a tightening up on housekeeping rather than ‘cuts’. That made sense - but it was not until last week that the full proposals and figures have been presented.
Quite frankly this budget scares me.

Whitchurch already has by far the highest precept in BDBC (edit – has the second highest) and is now it is likely to send the figure sky-high when compared to other parishes.
In particular the ‘Administration’ costs seem to be rocketing.

I don’t see the increase between last year’s Admin budget and next year’s being a move that will endear the Council to residents without seeing a corresponding commitment to much needed amenities and services our residents deserve.
And looking ahead it seems these costs continue to increase far above the rate of inflation.

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.

In short, I do not believe we should be using reserves to prop up growing administration costs at the expense of providing improved amenities and facilities.

A year ago we were heralding a very healthy outlook yet that no longer seems the case.
I really want to be proved wrong.

*********

I voted against the proposals. The vote was PASSED, so I accept the result and will get on with trying to get best value for our town. That's how democracy works.

I do wonder what will happen next year.

New Cycle Parking in Whitchurch

Cycles against walls
and windows.
(click to enlarge)

Whitchurch has new Cycle Parking
Let's thank those who provided it.

An excellent local project was initiated in November 2018 by a resident who had contacted the Town Council about cycle parking in the town. In an email they had requested installation of further cycle racks having noticed the vast increase in cyclists using the town and the business they brought. In February 2020 they were installed.

This was close to my own heart as cycling can bring increased trade and vitality to a town as well as encourage more to forsake their cars for short journeys, a benefit that has wide benefits for all ranging from improved health to increased safety.

Whitchurch is a popular
cycling destination.

Whitchurch is on cycle routes
Cycling is massively popular in the area with the town being both a weekend and a midweek stop for both individuals and groups of cyclists. It is a prime location in the lovely Test Valley, being close to the National Cycle Network route 246 and it has featured as a control point in a number of events. It is also on the official Trafalgar Way a route used by cyclists following the London to Falmouth carriage of dispatches.

Many cyclists who often stop to use the excellent cafés and pubs, use the shops and visit the attractions such as the renowned Silk Mill. But popularity can bring its own problems and cycles are often propped up against windows and walls and sometimes block pavements and doorways. Cycles have fallen on the ground and with limited parking they have even been wheeled into shops, as security can be a concern to their owners.

Some of the new parking.

Some informal discussion with cycling groups and a number of local residents took place to determine best needs.

From my own experience, and from this talking to people a prime requirement was that hiding cycle parking away does not work – it won’t be used – it needs to be visible for security reasons. 

These provide that visibility, although I would have liked some colour, but that could follow.

Helping the town
This parking will help pedestrians by keeping footways clear of cycles against shops and doorways and, provide an amenity for visitors, residents and businesses, while also helping drivers as the more who cycle the more congestion is reduced.

It also supports climate change principles in encouraging sustainable transport, and complements aims within the local Neighbourhood Plan and other wider Borough and County cycling strategies. Nearly one in five in one Whitchurch survey said they would cycle more if there were more cycle parking and there are studies that have shown that cyclists are amongst the highest contributors to local shopping economies.

Making Whitchurch a better place
Whitchurch, like many small growing towns, suffers from far too much traffic, adding to dangers for all, increased pollution and frayed tempers. By providing those who cycle with the facilities they need Whitchurch can become a much safer and pleasant place to live, shop and work. Sometimes a small thing like a few cycle racks can help make a big difference.

THE TOWN COUNCIL NEEDS COMMENDING FOR SUPPORTING THIS INITIATIVE.

_______________

AN UPDATE:
There are a small number who have made objections about the installation and location of this cycle parking.
Reasons have included – it stops people parking on the pavement, they are unsightly, they are not needed and they hinder deliveries.

If you support the provision of this amenity I therefore encourage all who see the WIDER BENEFITS to send their comments to Whitchurch Town Council.

The Council's email is here: WHITCHURCH TOWN COUNCIL

________________

Parking near School – Response

A Consultation on Parking Controls to be placed in Alliston Way and McFauld Way near the Primary School in Whitchurch has been published by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council.

For some background to this problems in the area see:
A HORRIFIC 20 MINUTES

This was my personal submission:
RESPONSE TO CONSULTATION
Parking Proposals Alliston Way / McFauld Way Whitchurch

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

I wish to support the draft proposals together with a few reservations and comments. I am aware that this is also part of a wider scheme with Hampshire County Council that includes some infrastructure changes to pavements, shared use pedestrian/cycle access to the Primary School, and a passing point, all of which I support.

OVERALL DANGERS/DAMAGE
The area is one that suffers parking on verges, corners, pavements and regular driving along the footways. I am aware of collisions and injuries in the area caused by the traffic conditions which are worse around school drop off/pick up time. The parking also damages kerbs and grassed areas as well as creating obstacles for those using pushchairs, wheelchairs or mobility scooters. There are major conflicts between motor traffic and more vulnerable road users.

HEAD ON CONFLICTS/PAVEMENT DRIVING
As a regular cyclist and walker, Alliston Way is particularly dangerous as motorists drive at an excessive speed from one end to the other on the single carriageway, in order to avoid meeting vehicles travelling in the opposite direction. This is exacerbated by the bend which restricts visibility. Improving sight-lines for drivers emerging at the Alliston /McFauld Way ’T’ is essential as vehicles parked close to the corner cause left turning drivers to swing out into the right hand lane without being able to see what is approaching from the southern (Micheldever Road) direction. Head-on conflicts are common which also results in regular pavement driving beside the Play area.

REDUCTION OF ON-ROAD PARKING near ’T’ JUNCTION
I am aware the proposals, in order to improve visibility from the ’T’ junction, reach further than the Highway Code 10 metres from a junction rule, and that this may reduce on road parking by a small amount. I do wonder if there is a possibility of moving the planned for HCC scheme passing point slightly further northwards and maintain the required sightlines, along with reducing the no parking area by a few metres to help local residents who live opposite the Recreation Ground. Perhaps that could be looked at jointly with the HCC Engineers, but I do feel it should only be changed if implemented with a Residents Parking Scheme (see below).

RESIDENTS PERMITS
I am also aware that on-road parking is at a premium and the residents suffer from parking by some who do not live in the area. I believe some businesses have even suggested that employees park in Alliston Way so as to leave their own parking areas clear for visitors / customers. As result I believe a residents' parking permit scheme may help and I request that it is considered, not just for Alliston Way but for the whole area.

OTHER PARTS OF AREA
It is possible that proposals might move problems elsewhere where existing properties have restrictions places outside them and where there are already multiple vehicles. As a result I believe a full assessment of the needs of the whole area for all road users would be beneficial. There are specific areas in nearby roads that also suffer, particularly from parking on the footway, verges and junction corners. Notably these are around Daniel Road, Rampton Road, the rest of Alliston Way and the roads off, as well as into the Knowlings. In my opinion I believe a residents permit scheme for the whole area may be a potential solution and should be explored.
I also believe that many problems could be mitigated should the Testbourne Bus area be utilised as a Primary School Drop Off/Park and Stride location once buses are removed from Micheldever Road through use of the Mill Springs Development dedicated bus drop off point. Can this be given some urgency?

EMERGENCY VEHICLES
I believe the proposals will make it much easier and safer for Emergency vehicles. However I am also aware of the future HCC plans which incorporate a pull in bay and dragons teeth along the footway edge in Alliston Way which might make the footway/recreation ground unavailable for emergency vehicle use. Is it possible to allow the double yellows to have an exception for emergency use or for hospital transport drop off? Or is that allowed anyway? Could any exception apply to the proposed pull in should it be approved?

ENVIRONMENT
At a time when we need to be reducing reliance on driving to deal with the climate change emergency we need to make our environment much safer for those walking, cycling or scooting to school, both for health benefits including reducing high obesity levels and also on air quality grounds. Motor vehicles are a major contributor to harmful emissions and climate change but while roads and pavements remain unsafe few will change their means of travel if they perceive walking or cycling still makes them and their children more vulnerable.

SUMMARY
Every localised scheme is likely to be a compromise but in this case I think a good scheme has been produced that answers many of the safety issues, particularly over the head-on situations that occur, and on the visibility issues. However, much will still depend on both enforcement and on road users giving each other respect. Any parking scheme needs enforcement or it has potential for being a pointless exercise.
Hence I support this scheme but with a few reservations and the suggestions included above, although my belief is that the majority of these proposals would be unnecessary if the Highway Code were adhered to and enforced.

PLEASE NOTE
Whilst I am a Town Councillor in Whitchurch these views are wholly my own as an individual Whitchurch resident.

Regards,

John Buckley

A Community Caretaker?

I write this on Day One of 2020 as a 'Letter' to the Town Council.

I thought I ought to share this. 

Whilst not a good end to 2019 it has opportunities for 2020/21

As you probably know Nitrous Oxide in small canisters is used to get ‘high’s and has been dubbed ‘Hippie Crack’. Abuse can have serious results that may lead to disablement and, although rare, death. It certainly results in anti-social behaviours.

I first came across it in some backstreet parts of Bristol a couple of years ago but now it seems to be widespread in our own lovely town of Whitchurch.

On social media this week and directly today there were reports of discarded canisters being found at:

• Kingsley Park where a young girl tripped over one; 
• At the bench near Longs Court (I’m guessing Great Lane); 
• Around Firsway;
• Evingar Road at the entrance to Ardglen;
• At the bench by the Surgery;
• At the bench by the dog dip (Fulling Mill path);
• At the end of Bere Hill near the field entrance;
• Witan Court on path between play park and Allotments;
• At the Gill Nethercott Centre;

Plus it was said...

“A lot of drug related paraphernalia left on and around the bench at Kingsley Park most mornings”,

And...

“The bushes on the right hand side [of Kingsley Park] are also used as a toilet (evidence of human faeces).”

Given that these were all reported by a limited audience there are sure to be many other places too.

One resident said about the Kingsley Park:

“ We collected over 30 [cannisters] the other day! My Dad usually goes on an early morning walk and collects up the mess before any children get to the park. Disgusting! it makes me angry and sad!”

What do we do?

Police presence is near non-existent, the Tadley-based PCSO is rarely seen (is one in post?) and the new Basingstoke based Community Safety Patrol Officer, although welcome, has a massive area to cover.

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). 

I believe our residents deserve support in this and this could be a worthwhile outlay. It may also be possible to share with other local concerned parties.

As a positive end of year message I believe this is worthy of consideration. 

How could it be progressed?

John

Cllr John Buckley

Whitchurch Town Council

Should all Building halt?

SHOULD ALL BUILDING HALT?

There are regular complaints about 'traffic levels' by residents of Whitchurch, especially when housing developments or the School Run are being discussed. It is a very understandable concern especially from the residents local to the schools who already have to bear the brunt of regular pavement parking/driving, speeding vehicles and dangers to pedestrians and cyclists.

A Nursery pushed traffic up the agenda
One such example arose with a recent planning application for a Nursery to be placed on the Knowlings Field, an area of agricultural land used unofficially as open space, but with difficult access.
A regular theme amongst the objectors was that the surrounding access roads, notably Micheldever Road which already provides access to the Primary and Secondary schools could not cope with any more 'traffic'.
The Nursery was to have 8 car park spaces all of which would be served via Micheldever Road.
The application was refused.

So... A major question has arisen.

Is any more 'traffic' in Micheldever Road and on the roads that lead off it acceptable?

The question I seriously pose is should ALL increases traffic now be objected to? Where do we now stand when assessing smaller developments; ones where the increase would be requiring only one or two new vehicle spaces; those for single new houses or extensions in size of existing ones.
Each application will generate more traffic as planning regulations often require the provision of additional parking spaces if bed spaces increase

It could take just four or five such applications to reach the level that was proposed for the Nursery and so strongly opposed.

Should we now be rejecting ALL applications that could generate extra traffic?

Being A Councillor – Mad?

"Why does anyone become a Councillor – they must be mad" – a statement made to me several times, and I must admit it has quite a lot of validity.
I've often thought I AM mad and I'm sure others do too.

This year all 12 seats of Whitchurch Town Council came up for election and it was with much serious consideration that I succumbed to some arm twisting to restand. Those responsible may come to rue their actions! Yes – I must be mad.

Town Councillors are local unpaid volunteers who have simply given their free time to try and make Whitchurch a better place – and they have their head permanently on the block.

Having been Chairman and Mayor for two terms was a massive honour that few are given and to be nominated a third time was just unbelievable. However I felt I must return to the 'back-benches' so declined the nomination and of course wish whoever takes on the role the "Best of Luck".

It was enjoyable and rewarding, but not without its difficulties as expectations in the community rise.
But the 'ordinary seats' offer opportunities – arguably a greater freedom to push for improvements, to fight for better amenities and services, to combat injustices, and to argue against those who want to change our town for the worse. Free from the rigours of leading the Council, this can now be easier – or in other words perhaps I will be a bit more of a nuisance!

So what drives me? And is it being a nuisance?

That's a dead easy question – it is to try and ensure that everyone can have a 'say' in their local community, even if I disagree with the opinions and ideas being expressed. Its a philosophy I live by and I do admit can put me into some difficulties at times but nothing beats being open, transparent, and accessible

If that's being a 'nuisance' so be it. 

Local residents, whoever they are, whatever their gender, age, race, religion or anything else, have a right to be heard and not to be ignored, fobbed off or belittled. 

But only if it were that easy.....

95% of the time it is rewarding and enjoyable and that's what makes it all worthwhile. As for the other 5%... smile and move on, there is too much nit-picking and negativity in the world today and it is best ignored. Let us ALL make Whitchurch a better place – Resident, Councillor, Nuisance, or whatever – nothing can beat working together to achieve that.

And as a footnote, as not all 12 seats are currently filled, there is a chance for co-option.
Anyone who would like to join the Town Council should contact the Town Hall as soon as possible.

John

A Tale of Two Signs

Pub signs rescued from
The Railway Hotel and The Harvest Home.

The importance of protecting what we have – in this case the Public House.

_____________________

Clearing out some pics I found this – taken when these Whitchurch pub signs were centre stage in a demo at Parliament a few years back.

Pubs lost to developers

These two Whitchurch pubs were lost without any opportunity for local residents to try and save them. Both the Railway and the Harvest Home were sold behind closed doors by their large remote PubCo owners taking advantage of a complicit planning system.
Local people held public meetings, lobbied councillors, planners, the MP, appeared on TV and radio and held on-site demos waving banners – all to no avail.
Housing is now on the two sites and the town has lost two social amenities.

Since then the law has changed and the introduction of the Asset of Community Value (ACV) is one tool added to the armoury of those who seek to keep local amenities, whether they be shops, a post office, halls or public houses.

A case in point...

Today IF an ACV is in place, local people can at least now have the opportunity to put in a bid to purchase, as is currently happening with the Red House in Whitchurch. Such community bids have to be considered by the seller within a legally enforced timeframe. Maybe the Red House team will succeed, maybe they won’t, but at least they now have the chance to have a go – and a gutsy one it is too, their commitment deserving much support.

But have lessons been learned? How many pubs have ACVs in place? What work could be done to improve the registration of such important assets? Could those who believe in the importance of our public houses, breweries and pub culture help? I believe that they could, by proactively working with the communities that value their local amenities. Be in touch if you want pointers.

It is interesting what passions and rants finding an old picture can raise. :-)

Wine and Cycle Lights

Rear Ever Ready Light.
A perfect wine glass (nearly)

What has Wine got to do with Cycle Lights?

It was a cycling trip in Normandy that reminded me of lights. On a cold dark winter's night they are an essential – in more ways than one.

It was a cold November evening and the youth hostel was found closed and locked up. We were hungry and tired but thankfully a small local store was still open for sustenance – red wine, a baguette, cheese and some beans.

With nowhere to stay we cycled into the countryside and found a convenient bus shelter for the night. As the temperature dropped the wine became an essential comfort, but how to drink and maintain some elements of decorum as befits the Englishman on a bike in France?

The old Ever Ready lights came to the rescue. By taking off the red lens and removing the bulb and reflector you had a perfect wine glass. Thus replenished with wine, the bread, cheese and cold beans from the tin we slept on the concrete floor – soundly would be a bit of an exaggeration but at least we slept.

THE MORAL
Both Wine and Lights are part of life's essentials

__________________________

Now a more  SERIOUS Bit...

Nights are starting to draw in and with the darker evenings don't get caught out without good cycle lights on your bike, you never know how useful they can be, not just for wine but also for being seen and for those ever increasing number of potholes – which seem deliberately placed to test cycle handling skills!

Unfortunately the official cycle lighting regulations are not just a minefield but also totally confusing.

At their simplest, a cycle needs to have both good working front and rear lights together with reflectors, during the hours of darkness. The Highway Code is clear on that.

Highway Code Rule 60
At night your cycle MUST have white front and red rear lights lit. It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/85). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen. Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp.

Note that these lights need to be fixed to the bike. Any lights on bags, the head, clothing, etc are additional. 'Hours of darkness' refer to sunset and sunrise which are different to lighting up times which motor vehicles have to comply with.
Beyond that the regulations start to get much more complicated.

Just keep to the above and all will be well, but if you are a masochist for rules and regulations read on.

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Let's see what lights are available.

Never before has there been such a range, which can be bewildering to anyone looking for a good lighting set. Technology has advanced massively over recent years. Memories of a couple of U2 batteries rattling in a heavy Ever Ready lamp held on by straps and packed with pieces of cardboard are thankfully distant as are those of the cold bus shelter floor.

FRONT
These fall into two main uses, those for use in street-lit areas and those for full darkness, so make sure you use one suitable for your needs.
What I would certainly not recommend is skimping on price as there has been an influx of cheap and very bright rechargeable lights from the Far East available via obscure dealers online. There have been some scary reports of exploding batteries causing fires – I have first hand experience as one exploded in my kitchen.
A good steady front light is best. Flashing lights can have a place in built up areas but on lanes they can very much distract.

REAR
Again buy good quality but avoid the gimmicks. There is a plethora of rechargeables, sometimes using removeable cells, sometimes charged via USB. There is even an LED light that senses your braking acting as a brake light and even one that incorporates a rear facing video camera.
There are also flashing gloves, helmets and even coats, all of which are usually gimmicks. What you must have a a good red light, steady or flashing; most do both.

BATTERY OR DYNAMO
These days both can be good. The old fashioned dynamo wheels that rub (and slip) noisily on tyres have largely been replaced by the development of very efficient hub dynamo systems. Some of these incorporate stand lights that remain on for a short time for when waiting at junctions or traffic lights. Others may even include charging options for mobile phones or battery packs while you ride.

EXTRA LIGHTS
Additional lights can be added to clothes, bags but they must still comply with white to the front and red to the rear - and as a quirk triangle reflectors are not allowed – they are reserved for use on trailers. Note that these lights are 'additional' – it is still a requirement to have those fixed to the cycle itself as detailed above.

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And now it gets complicated.

Starting to get lost?
As an example, what is 'lighting up time' and what are the 'hours of darkness'? Just to confuse us they differ.
For cycles it is straight forward-ish; lights must be used from sunset to sunrise.
However drivers should use sidelights at least in this time but legally do not need to use headlights until 30 minutes AFTER sunset – which is termed 'hours of darkness'. Starting to get confused?

It goes on...

Those Standards
Your front light needs to be white central or offside and up to 1500mm above the ground. Steady lights must be BS6102/3 or equivalent EC standard.
Rear lights need to be fixed central or offside between 350mm and 1500mm from the ground. and again steady lights should be marked BS3648 or BS6102/3 or equivalent EC standard.
To make things even more difficult most lights available are not marked but despite this they exceed the British Standards by a long long way! So which do the more savvy cyclists use? Its not difficult to guess.
Since 2005 lights can be flashing but the BS standards don't apply, only the output standards - at least 4 candela and flashing between 60 and 240 times a minute.

The minefield gets worse! Why are pedals being mentioned?
Let's consider pedals. These should have amber reflectors, to the front and rear of each pedal, and marked BS6102/2, but try fitting these to clipless pedals if you use them. However if your bike was manufactured before October 1985 pedal reflectors are not required. And what about bikes that have been custom built with components from various years?
How is the date determined?
Answers on a postcard.

Oh dear. I fear a headache is coming on – perhaps a glass of wine may help.
Pass the rear light please – it makes a good glass.

Improving safety and congestion in Micheldever Road

One of the major congestion points in Whitchurch is the junction of Micheldever Road and Winchester Road at school times. Each morning and evening the problems caused by the school run are exacerbated by the arrival and departure of the School Buses for Testbourne – but a solution is close at hand.

As part of the new development of Mill Springs off Winchester Road, David Wilson Homes aare building a new Bus Bay/Drop-off point which, when operational, will provide a safe and purpose built alternative for the Testbourne buses.

No longer will the School Buses have to mount pavements, squeeze past other drivers and cause danger in Micheldever Road to school children walking, other pedestrians and drivers.

The day cannot come soon enough when the new bus bay which will link to a new safe path into school is opened.

And not only that...
... with the current bus bay at the front of Testbourne being made almost redundant, wouldn't that make a convenient and spacious drop off point for Walking Buses for the Primary School. Park and Stride anyone?

Those who arranged this excellent facility and the wider opportunities it gives are to be very much commended.
Now we just need it implemented.

WINS ALL AROUND

One child casualty is not enough for action say County

School is back in Whitchurch this week and the County Council cuts back on road safety.

Pressure on local roads
The school run has always been a contentious issue but it has become more so in recent years as school numbers grow and traffic increases. With the Primary School and Testbourne both back this week, the pressure on the local roads increases as children make their way to and from their places of education.

Child injured in collision
Both schools are in a residential area which also includes the town's largest play area as well as access to the Skatepark and BMX track. It is a place where children are expected yet during the summer a young child was in collision with a vehicle and hospitalised, with the report being it was an "unfortunate incident".

Concerns, worries and anger – and no action

A meeting was held in Alliston Way arranged by Basingstoke Councillor Chloe Ashfield who, along with many others, is concerned about the dangers. Local residents rightly expressed their worries and anger at traffic speeds, vehicles mounting pavements, parking on bends and lives being put at risk. Such views have regularly been passed to Hampshire County Council, but...

Despite these local fears, this week Hampshire County Council said – “sites that have treatable patterns of casualty incidents are being prioritised above other locations.” and, regarding Alliston Way, “... on this basis, further study is unlikely at this stage.”
They cite cuts for this approach.
It is unacceptable.

One child casualty is not enough
A young lad was injured. How many casualties are needed? Is not one too many?
Such a response ignores the harm of near misses, the close shaves and the worry and fear over personal safety that is generated. How do HCC decide how many casualties are required to make their "pattern" and what is that number?
Will they tell us their figure for Alliston Way?

Please don't drive on the
pavements.

Taking responsibility – we can all help
Meanwhile if driving in Alliston Way please look out for children. A child can be unpredictable and can make mistakes; that's what they do when they are learning and growing up. They are the responsibility of us all and children should not be punished by injury or worse because they may make a mistake. This is a residential area where people live, play and go about their normal lives and they expect to do so in safety. Please don't let there be another casualty.
And please don't drive on pavements, park on bends or ignore the 20mph speed limit. The rules are there for a purpose.

But will they listen?
While we all take our own responsibility we must also keep up the pressure on Hampshire County Council and Basingstoke & Deane to take some tangible action to make the area safer for all. Its what we pay for and expect.
They also need to take responsibility or more children will suffer, but will they listen?


Related article:
A HORRIFIC 20-MINUTES OF SCHOOL RUN

Success for a local group?

A Success Story that others can copy

What a brilliant day; the sun was out; the BBQ was sizzling; and over 30 children from age 5 to early teens were being taught the basic skills of cricket under the watchful eye of many parents, friends and the Whitchurch Cricket Club. The Sunday morning was a perfect example of how volunteers and the dedication of a local group can help further the well-being of the town and its residents.

A critical situation
Last year the local Cricket Club, which had been playing in Whitchurch since 1776, was close to folding. Players were leaving, a team could not be formed, equipment had been vandalised and the Parsonage Meadow ground was falling into disrepair. The Club was at serious risk of being wound-up and there seemed to be very little hope for the future.

There was an excellent turnout
of families, helpers and friends 

The Cricket Ground
Parsonage Meadow is one of the Whitchurch's most idyllic locations – a large open space opposite All Hallows with views across the River Test and the water meadows to the east, and bounded on the western side by the tree covered embankment of the old railway line.

The Cricket Club had been long time custodians but times were changing and the lease was up for renewal by the landlords, the same who had been selling off local land to developers. The situation was looking bad – real bad. If the ground were to become unused, pressure for redevelopment could become reality, and does Whitchurch need more?

The old flag still adorns the Pavillion

Support from the Town Council
A suggestion that the Town Council be approached for support was made and some preliminary talks took place – having a chat always a good idea as it can generate suggestions and provide other potential leads. Ideas began to formulate.
Each year the Town Council allocates a modest sum that can be applied for by local organisations "in support of a cause that benefits the community". – and that became the starting block for reigniting local enthusiasm (for details of the Grant Scheme just contact the Town Hall).

Whitchurch Cricket Club made an application for 1) a new gang mower, without which the ground would not be useable, 2) a secure vandal-proof container for storage of equipment and 3) funds to enable coaching and training of new young players to aid a sustainable future.

The monies were approved and a dedicated group from the Club put many hours into clearing the old pavilion, preparing the ground and recruiting a team.

Four groups of youngsters were taught basic skills of cricket under expert eyes.

The future looks good
Beyond all expectations it all began to click into place. With the support they were able to commit to the rent for the ground, join the Hampshire Cricket League and hold the youth coaching sessions which received astounding support. As well as nearly 100 youngsters taking advantage of the coaching, the Club now has a Mens team playing and the possibility of a Ladies eleven too. From a position of near despair the future was now beginning to look rosy.

Each young 'player' received
a special drinks bottle.

Protecting the Meadow
Meanwhile the Town Council also applied for, and was successful in, registering Parsonage Meadow as an Asset of Community Value, so if the owners ever did wish to sell then a community group would have the right to place a bid – ie a sale to developers could not be done behind closed doors and there would be an opportunity for s community group to put in a bid. Although it may not become necessary it is a welcome tool to hold should the Meadow ever be at risk again.

How others may benefit
So...
If you have an idea, a project, or a cause that you believe in, and you can show that it will benefit the town, its residents and its well-being, please do not hesitate to talk to the Town Council. Nothing can be promised but at the least advice can always be offered, and there is always the chance you could be successful and put on the way to achieving your aims.
Nothing can be lost by having that informal friendly chat as has been demonstrated with the Cricket Club.
Contact: WHITCHURCH TOWN COUNCIL

Long may the Whitchurch Cricket Club provide cricket for the town of Whitchurch and long may the Town Council listen to the needs of its residents.