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OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – Section 14(1)

Notice of Temporary Traffic Order - Main Street and March Road, Mollington

Prohibition of Through Traffic - Date of Order: 5 March 2012 - Coming into force: 12 March 2012

This Order is being introduced because of carriageway maintenance works in part of Main Street and March Road which are anticipated to take one week to complete. The effect of the Order is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding, when the appropriate traffic signs are displayed, in those sections of Main Street and March Road that run westwards from the junction with Lower Farm Lane to the road junction immediately after the M40 overbridge. Exemptions are included for police, fire and ambulance services and for the works and for vehicular access to adjacent premises which are only accessible from the closed sections of roads.

The alternative route for traffic affected by the closure is via Macmillan Way , Farnbourough, the A423 & vice versa. This Order will remain in force for a maximum period of eighteen months or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner.

Traffic Regulation Team (Ref HJG) on behalf of the Director for Environment & Economy, Speedwell House, Oxford, OX1 1NE Tel 0845 310 11 11

For map detail go HERE

MORE FEEDBACK REQUIRED PLEASE  

Feedback as to the content and any suggestions how the site might be improved is very, very welcome and wanted. The Webmaster is not a mind reader and would like to hear more from viewers on a regular basis as to what they would like (or not like) to see. The more information that can be included will go a long way to keep Cropredy in the Public's Eye and to ensure it remains a favourite place to explore for potential newcomers to the area. We have a superb location and the more people we can encourage is to the benefit of all. Why not get in touch with the Webmaster soon?  Telephone 01295 750357 or e-mail: WEBMASTER.

Land off School Lane, Cropredy PDF 521 KB

• View the declarations of interest for item 139.

Additional documents:

• 11_01069_F_1A, item 139. PDF 100 KB
• 11_01069_F_2, item 139. PDF 326 KB
• 11-01069-F, item 139. PDF 168 KB
• Webcast for Land off School Lane, Cropredy

Decision: Approved, subject to conditions

Minutes:

The Committee considered a report for a proposed marina with new access from Oxford Canal complete with associated car parking and facilities buildings (as amended by plans received 16/09/11 ). Consideration of the application had been deferred from the Committee's December meeting to allow for a site visit.

Mark Simmons, a local resident, spoke in opposition to the application.Councillor Paul Morley , member of Cropredy Parish Council, spoke in opposition to the application.

The Committee raised concerns over child safety due to the proximity of the school to the development. The Development Control Team Leader indicated that the proposed condition 12 of the report could be amended to address this matter. Members also considered flooding, drainage and sustainability and noted that the proposal would have a positive effect on the Cropredy economy. In reaching their decision, the Committee considered the Officers report, written update and presentation and the addresses of the public speakers.

Resolved

That application 11/01069/F be approved subject to the following conditions:

(1) SC 1.4A Full permission: Duration Limit (3years)(RC2)

(2) Plan numbers condition

(3) That samples of the bricks, timber cladding and roof tiles to be used in the construction of the of the walls and the roof of the facilities building shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority prior to the commencement of development. The development shall be carried out in accordance with the samples so approved. (RC4A)

(4) That prior to the commencement of development a plan of the proposed access to the highway shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and prior to first use of the proposed development the access shall be constructed in accordance with the approved plan. (RC13BB)

(5) That prior to the commencement of development a construction phase traffic management plan shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. Throughout the period of construction the approved plan shall be adhered to. (RC13BB)

(6) That prior to first use, the parking and associated manoeuvring areas shall be provided and thereafter maintained without obstruction except for the parking of vehicles. (RC13B)

(7) The development permitted by this planning permission shall only be carried out in accordance with the approved Flood Risk Assessments (FRA) dated 28 June 2011 ref: WB02048/FRA and the addendum dated 01 September 2011 WB02048/FRA/01 and the following mitigation measures detailed within the FRA:

1. The access track, car park and site facilities shall be located in Flood Zone 1, as set out in Section 5.1 of the FRA dated 28 June 2011 .

2. There will be no raising of ground levels within Flood Zones 2 and 3, as set out in Section 5.2 of the FRA dated 28 June 2011 and section A4.1 of the FRA dated 01 September.

3. The wooden walkways shall not be raised above ground level, as set out in Section A3.0 of the FRA dated 01 September.

4. The site access track, footpaths and car  ...  view the full minutes text for item 139.

Land North of Cropredy & South East of Poplars Farm, Claydon Road, Cropredy PDF 611 KB

• View the declarations of interest for item 140.

Additional documents:

• 11_01255_F_1A, item 140. PDF 123 KB
• 11-01255-F, item 140. PDF 171 KB
• Webcast for Land North of Cropredy & South East of Poplars Farm, Claydon Road, Cropredy

Decision:

Approved, subject to conditions

Minutes:

The Committee considered a report for a proposed marina with ancillary office, store, car parking, access and associated landscaping.

Tim Langer , the applicant, spoke in favour of the application.

Councillor Paul Morley , a member of Cropredy Parish Council, spoke in support to the application.

The Committee considered the traffic and highways impact of the proposed development. Members noted that British Waterways had endorsed the site.

In reaching their decision, the Committee considered the Officers report, written update and presentation and the addresses of the public speakers.

Resolved

That application 11/01255/F be approved subject to the following conditions:

(a) The Environment Agency being satisfied that the FRA is adequate and that the proposal will not result in increased risk of flooding.

(b) The Council being satisfied that appropriate Method Statement has been produced to ensure that if great crested newts and or reptiles are found on the site they can be appropriately dealt with.

(c) The following conditions;

(1) SC 1.4A Full permission: Duration Limit (3years)(RC2)

(2) Plan numbers condition

(3) That samples of the timber cladding and roofing material to be used in the construction of the of the walls and the roof of the office and storage buildings shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority prior to the commencement of development. The development shall be carried out in accordance with the samples so approved. (RC4A)

(4) That prior to the commencement of development a plan of the proposed access to the highway shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and prior to first use of the proposed development the access shall be constructed in accordance with the approved plan. (RC13BB)

(5) That prior to the commencement of development a construction phase traffic management plan shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. Throughout the period of construction the approved plan shall be adhered to. (RC13BB)

(6) That prior to first use, the parking and associated manoeuvring areas shall be provided and thereafter maintained without obstruction except for the parking of vehicles. (RC13B)

(7) Appropriate conditions relating to the Flood Risk Assessment (yet to be recommended)

(8) Appropriate conditions relating to mitigation in ecological reports (yet to be recommended) (RC85A)

(9) SC 9.5A Site clearance to avoid bird nesting/breeding season (RC86A)

(10) That prior to the commencement of development a pre-works check will be carried out by a qualified ecologist to check for the presence of water voles, bats and badgers. In the event that these species are found the Local Planning Authority shall be notified and appropriate mitigation measures agreed in writing. The work shall be carried out in accordance with the agreed mitigation measures. (RC85A)

(11) SC 3.0A Submit Landscaping Scheme (RC10A)

(12) SC 3.1A Carry out landscaping scheme (RC10A)

(13) SC 3.2AA Retained trees (RC10A)

(14) SC 3.3AA Scheme to be submitted to protect retained trees (RC72A)

(15) SC 3.4BB Retain existing hedgerows/tree boundary (RC11A)

(16) Prior to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 140.

Cropredy Marina Planning Decision Welcomed  

At a meeting of Cherwell District Council Planning Committee, on Thursday 5 January, members approved the development of a new marina to the north of the village of Cropredy, on the Oxford Canal. The new development will provide an offline marina for 249 boats, on land which is currently in agricultural use. The marina will occupy less than 20% of the overall site, and be positioned on the lowest ground, well away from the houses on the northern edge of the village. Presently, there is only one small offline marina on the Oxford Canal in the 49 miles between Oxford and Napton, which is reflected in the large numbers of boats moored along the banks of the canal.

There will be no workshops, shops or residential units on site. The only buildings will be a marina office and facilities building, with small storage units, all screened by extensive landscaping. Existing hedgerows, trees and watercourses will be retained and enhanced with additional informal native shrub and tree planting. Tim Langer, developer of the marina said: “We welcome the decision of Cherwell District Council Planning Committee, and thank Cropredy Parish Council and local residents for their support and guidance throughout the extensive consultation and planning process. In developing the new marina our focus will be quite simply to provide quality moorings and to be a ‘good neighbour' to the Village, and a key player in its on-going prosperity.” Tim continued: “We expect work on the new marina to start later this year and for it to be open in Spring 2013. We will continue to listen and work closely with local residents, Cropredy Parish Council and all interested parties.” For further information on the marina please visit www.cropredymarina.com or call Chris Stanley on 01327871 701 or 07817312718. 

Temporary Road Traffic Order – S14 Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 Temporary Road Closure – Williamscot towards Cropredy

In the interests of public safety it will be necessary for Oxfordshire County Council to close the road that runs from Williamscot into Cropredy to facilitate structural carriageway patching works. A Temporary Traffic Regulation Order is being made to implement the temporary closure and will operate from 6 February 2012. The estimated duration of the works is until 22 February 2012. (The maximum duration of such a temporary closure will be 18 months or until completion of the works whichever is the earlier). Notice of intention to make the Order will be published in the local press.

Access will be maintained for emergency service vehicles and also overnight access for those residents within the closure area, subject to the progress of the works.  Please note that access routes will depend on exactly where the works vehicles are at any time and may need to be negotiated with the gang on site as necessary. A copy of the drawing showing the extent of the closure HERE and also the suggested alternative route for traffic HERE.

Please note that road closures are generally signed from junction to junction. This is to deter drivers from driving right up to the closure points and then having to reverse or make tight turns. We are, though, very aware that drivers often ignore signage, both permanent and temporary, and increasingly they just follow their Satnavs!

Further information regarding the works may be obtained by contacting Simon Marsden, OCC Highways & Transport on 0845 310 11 11.

The Banbury CountyConnect bus service provides journeys direct to Banbury all day Monday to Saturday. Between 7am-7pm Monday to Friday and 8am-6pm Saturday). As well as the town centre, it also serves the Hospital, Railway Station, Morrisons, Tesco and Sainsbury`s Superstores as well as the Office Village in the north of Banbury. From Monday 12th December, the Banbury service is also be serving Cropredy, Great Bourton, Little Bourton, Claydon, Wardington and Upper Wardington.

Before you make a first booking you need to register at the number below or at www.county-connect.co.uk County Connect are currently reprinting leaflets but you can call for further information or look at their website. 0845 456 4474 - Booking and helpline Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.30pm Sat 9.00am-4.00pm Cancellations and Service Operating Information Mon - Fri 7.30am - 6.30pm Sat 8.30am - 5.30pm. Text County Connect followed by a space and your message to 82727. Latest news just received:- In terms of pick up and drop off points in Cropredy, we have allocated the Brasenose Arms and Wesleyn Chapel as points however more can be added if there are some additional locations in the village which would be suitable. In terms of fares, these are to be confirmed but the fare will be in the region of £2.50 Single and £4.70 return for Adults, £1.70 Single and £3.20 return for children and we also offer a Group Ticket for up to 5 people for £4.80 Single and £8.80 return. Until the end of the year we are also offering `free return journeys`. Concessionary bus passes are also valid. Hard copy details (brochure) are now freely available from the Shop, the Post Office and the Surgery.

Residents will soon be able to include batteries with their kerbside recycling thanks to an initiative by Cherwell District Council. The council currently collects about seven tonnes of batteries per year, through its 34 recycling sites, which brings in revenue of around £1,400. But the hope is that by providing each household with a handy bag it will encourage them to send many more of their batteries for recycling rather than to landfill. Since 2008, following a European Union directive, it has been mandatory for people to recycle batteries. The directive states that by next year a quarter of all batteries must be collected but the figure will rise to 45 per cent by 2016. This is important because many batteries contain harmful metals such as lead, mercury or cadmium. If sent to landfill they break down and the metals can leak into the ground, potentially causing water pollution. All residents need to do when they have spent batteries is drop them in the bag and once it is full, put it out with their bins. When this is picked up by refuse collectors they will deliver a new bag These are being funded by the council's battery recycling contractor, Valpak. Councillor James Macnamara, Cherwell's lead member for environment, said: “Everyone has an obligation to protect the environment but we want to make that as easy as possible. “Along with the winter edition of Cherwell Link, all homes should receive a battery bag which they can start using straight away. “With Christmas just around the corner there are sure to be thousands more batteries in use and we want to try and ensure as many as possible are recycled.”

Other types of bag - such as sandwich bags - can also be used or batteries can still be dropped in the containers at recycling banks. Most types of household battery will be collected but car batteries are not included as they are considered hazardous because of their acid content. Batteries to be collected are AAA, AA, C and D as well as button, mobile phone, laptop and rechargeables. Car batteries must be taken to garages, scrap metal facilities or Oxfordshire County Council's recycling facilities. Visit www.cherwell.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=5608 the full list of Cherwell's recycling banks.  

Services Initiative. This announcement should be of interest to all who live in Cropredy and the surrounding Villages.  

It is with great regret that Camille Jokumsen has decided after six and half successful years to close her business The Perfect Present due to poor health. Her Shop and the Post Office will close on the 31st of January 2012 unless a buyer for both businesses can be found in the meantime. Whilst this is a personal blow to Camille it is a significant loss to Cropredy particularly at a time when communities are working hard to keep local services open. A determined effort is needed to ensure that this does not happen and your help is needed.

The plan is to spread the word that a viable business opportunity has occurred for someone to take over the shop and Post Office as a going concern, or open a new retail outlet incorporating the Post Office. To facilitate this, all parties connected with the business have come together to try and make this happen effectively and as soon as possible. This is to ensure that the Post Office is not closed permanently. The key elements for maintaining and growing this business are listed below and further information is available on request from the contacts listed.  

Retail shop incorporating Post Office  

*An attractive business opportunity. 

*Good location in historic and attractive village.  

*Option to buy existing business (Gifts-Cards-Fashion items) plus take over thriving village Post Office.

or 

*Take over lease premises and start new retail business with Post Office licence.  

*Canal side location, which generates additional income 6 months of the year. As well as village and passing trade.

*Further income opportunity from annual Cropredy Music Festival when 20 thousand people converge on the village for 4 days every August.  

*Situated next door to busy village general store.  

This notice will be posted on the village web site and advertised in the Banbury Guardian, other media is being considered. However word of mouth is most effective, which is where you can be of greatest help. Please tell your family, relatives and friends that this exciting business opportunity has occurred and for more information.

Contacts:     Camille Jokumsen - tel: 07771 601852

                  Robert Cherry   -     tel: 01295 758225  

This plan is fully supported by Post Office Ltd and the Parish Council through the Local Community.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service's “365 Alive - think safety” initiative is offering advice to drivers on how to keep safe while winter driving conditions prevail. Topics covered include:

• Preparing your vehicle for winter
• What to do before setting off
• Adjusting to adverse driving conditions
• Driving in fog
• Coping with winter and spring dazzling sunshine
• Dealing with icy and slushy roads

To see a full list of all the advice offered, go to http://www.365alive.co.uk/wps/wcm/connect/micro/365alive/Road+safety/On+the+road/365alive+-+RS+-+OR+-+Winter+Driving  to print off the leaflet for future reference as winter conditions start to become a reality.

Please may we encourage residents to continue sending in their letters re the Met Mast. We have until the end of November to respond and more copies of the objection letters are available should you require them, or you can download a copy from the Hanwell village web site . Although the official planning portal will close on 2nd November, responses  can still be sent as long as the letters bear the application number to the general planning department e-mail address, or of course by post. Today, Shotteswell and Mollington Parish Council both received a letter from Regeneco suggesting that they hold a "Councillor only" meeting. We expect this approach to probably go out to each council that has responded to the Met Mast application. Although your first instinct may be to have such a meeting to hear what they have to say, may we ask you to wait before responding. Part of Regenco's tick boxes is to consult and this aids their application. On the advice of our planning consultant, we have been advised to wait and give due consideration before replying.  We would like to discuss this collectively to decide the best approach and  to these ends the Chair of Hanwell Parish Council has made the following suggestion. John Spratt (Chairman of Hanwell Parish Council) has suggested that each parish council nominates a representative to act on behalf of their respective councils. One but ideally two councillors  would be preferable  to allow flexibility with meeting dates.  We don't envisage many meetings at this stage, but it would be better to group together as our strength will be in both numbers and following the same approach . Even if your parish is not immediately under threat these applications are increasing.  We have heard of a scoping opinion at Sugarswell, Shennington and one at Boddington reservoir. It is beneficial for us all to be informed, aware and act together.  We hope that you will agree to this approach and please would you be kind enough to let me have your nominees for the collective meeting of councils and also availability dates for the next ten days? If you would like to discuss this further please feel free to give me a call my home number is 01295 730203.  A further open meeting to explain about wind farms and up dates for those who have not been able to attend other village meetings, is planned I will circulate date in due course. You may be interested to know that the SHAMWAG web site is up and running, which has now accumulated a lot of useful information u-tube clips and articles, which may be of interest.

Kind Regards, Val Ingram.  

PROPOSED SHOTTESWELL WIND FARM

NO to the Windfarm - Newsletter No.1 A huge thank you to all those who came to our meetings !!

Hanwell and Shotteswell both held village meetings this week, and coming just a few days after the controversial announcement of plans to build a windfarm right outside our homes, these well attended meetings clearly showed strong opposition to the plan. During the next week we hope there will be more village meetings in Mollington, Horley, Great Bourton and Cropredy. Indeed, we now have received support from people in all six parishes that are affected. John Spratt, Chairman of Hanwell Parish Council, called this a “disproportionate and surreal “ proposal. As the essential first step we have formed an Action Group to coordinate and organise our resistance, which we've called SHAMWAG - Shotteswell, Hanwell and Mollington Windfarm Action Group. It's a catchy and memorable name which all parties will soon recognise as a serious expression of all our feelings.

We are in the process of setting up our website and have already got our email operational - shamwag@hotmail.co.uk - so please let us hear from you as this action group is for you and everyone else in the 6 parishes that oppose the windfarm. Offers of help and support can be forwarded to this email address. Further contact details will follow but in the meantime feel free to call Nigel Hall on 01295 730563 or Jane winter on 01295 738132.

The campaign has started!!!

Things have moved fast on several fronts and we now know that the planning application for the initial test mast was received by Cherwell District Council ( www.cherwell-dc.gov.uk ) within hours of the announcement hitting our letterboxes. Check out application refs 11/01391/F and 11/00002/SCOP. We are busy gathering information and we have already been able to refute a few of the “facts” underpinning the planning application. We still do not know the exact date that we need to have our responses submitted to Cherwell District Council, but we believe it will be October 20th. However we do know that this entire plan was initiated locally and that planning has been underway for nearly 2 years ! But don't worry - despite us becoming aware of it only last week, and despite Regeneco failing to undertake their legal requirements to consult with those affected before submitting their plans, we will have detailed advice and guidance of how you can make your own representations to the Planners in plenty of time. SHAMWAG - Representing the people of all six parishes - shamwag@hotmail.co.uk   LATEST FROM SHAMWAG:- Good Morning - Firstly, thank you for all the support recently and please would you be kind enough to pass this on to your parishioners. We have recently had some people write to the web site asking for articles to be posted to notice boards, for those people who are not web enabled, which seems reasonable. We can not obviously due to lack of space expect you to print everything but, may we ask that you consider publishing the information below to your notice boards, which is relatively general and informative. Please would you also consider letting your respective parish magazines know of the web site, they may wish to cherry pick interesting items for general circulation. Alternatively or as well as, you may wish to print out articles for your notice boards too, which you consider relevant. Shamwag have produced a selection of laminated posters , please contact shamwag @hotmail.co.uk if you would like one or the j-peg can be sent for you to print your own if this is easier. We do need to promote awareness as our area is seemingly heavily plagued with these applications for turbines. Although we are delighted that Cherwell turned down the application for the Met mast we wait to see if they are to appeal, everyone needs to be vigilant as they have a tendency to pop these in over holiday periods. An update letter is currently being produced by shamwag for residents and will be ready shortly. We are aware that the wind farm at Bishop's Itchington is active again and on the 14th December, Daventry DC is considering the Boddington turbine proposal, they too are looking for support. May we take this opportunity of thanking you all for your support and we wish you the Season's Greetings and hope that the New Year will be a more peaceful one!

HS2 - THERE ARE CREDIBLE ALTERNATIVES TO SPENDING £32 BILLION

The new Chiltern Mainline service launched this week is cutting the journey time from Birmingham to London to just 90 minutes making it comparable with West Coast Mainline services from Euston to Birmingham. The 51m group opposing High Speed 2 has welcomed the introduction of the new service that demonstrates what can be achieved by improving the existing network.

Speaking on behalf of 51m Cllr Martin Tett, leader of Buckinghamshire County Council, said: "The Mainline scheme powerfully makes the case that alternatives to High Speed 2 must form part of the consideration before the taxpayer has to finance a £32 billion vanity project that represents very poor value for money. “51m has said all along that there are alternatives that can be brought in well before 2026 - the earliest date HS2 is due to be completed - and at significantly less cost." "We believed that by taking a similar approach for improving the West Coast Main Line, capacity to meet the predicted demand over the next 30 years can be achieved on an incremental basis as and when required. “In comparison HS2 will not provide any capacity increases to Birmingham until 2026 and Manchester and Leeds until 2033. “The Chiltern Mainline will provide significant extra capacity between London and Birmingham and with fares significantly less than those on WCML it will attract significant numbers of passengers. “There are now two intercity Mainlines between London and Birmingham to meet any future demand."

The faster journey times are made possible by a £250 million investment to upgrade the rail route from Moor Street station in the heart of Birmingham to Marylebone station in central London. Birmingham's Moor Street Station has recently been transformed through a £25m renovation adjacent to the Bullring shopping centre. The project has been provided at nil cost to the taxpayer. The fastest Mainline trains will travel at peak times from Birmingham Moor Street, via Solihull and Warwick Parkway only, before travelling non-stop to London Marylebone. Every hour, a fast Mainline train will call at Birmingham Moor Street, Solihull, Warwick Parkway, Leamington Spa, Banbury and London Marylebone. Also every hour, an additional Mainline train will depart from Birmingham Snow Hill and stop at Birmingham Moor Street, Solihull, Dorridge, Warwick Parkway, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Banbury, Bicester North, High Wycombe and London Marylebone. The additional capacity coupled with free Wi-Fi access available throughout all Mainline train carriages, provides the ability to work on trains in comfort.

And further Chiltern Rail improvements in Cherwell are in the offing through Evergreen 3, connecting to Oxford and London via Bicester. The fastest journey time from Banbury to London is currently 53 minutes and HS2 offers no improvement on this for Cherwell residents. Councillor Michael Gibbard, Cherwell's lead member for planning, said: “We are supporting the 51m co-ordinated response to Government as we do not accept the case being made in favour of HS2. “We will continue to support those whose lives would be blighted by a new high-speed rail line for which we believe there is no need.”

The SHIRES EDGE WORSHIP & FELLOWSHIP

A new style of Christian worship was started in May. It is an initiative of the Shires Edge Benefice of the Church of England and is open to anyone who would enjoy Christian fellowship and worship in a relaxed and informal setting. The Fellowship will meet at the Cropredy Methodist Church rooms on the third Thursday of the month starting at 7pm with a simple meal, followed by informal contemporary worship and thoughtful teaching. An ecumenical act of Christian fellowship and worship; at which everyone is welcome. Full details HERE.

Cherwell backs campaign to oppose HS2

At a meeting of its Executive on Monday (7 March) Cherwell District Council agreed to back growing opposition to the Government’s high-speed rail project HS2

The Executive agreed to make £50,000 of its reserves available for work on preparing objections to the proposals. This will be done in conjunction with other concerned councils across the south-east and Midlands. The money will help fund the technical and legal consultancy needed to make an effective, in-principle objection to the scheme and mount a campaign asking the Government to reconsider. It will also pay for specialist consultancy to assist the Planning Committee in examining the landscaping and environmental measures that are needed in Cherwell should the scheme get the go-ahead. With the Government consultation under way it is vital that those in the district who might be affected feel they have the support they need. Cherwell's portfolio holder for planning and housing, Councillor Michael Gibbard, said: “Cherwell was among the first to oppose this colossal white elephant and local people can rely on us to stand up for them much as we did over the asylum centre at Piddington.” The council’s planning department will bring a report back to the Executive toward the end of the consultation period so the council’s formal response can be considered. In the meantime residents are urged to contemplate making their own representations and even paying a visit to one of the Department for Transport roadshows set to take place.

The closest of these will take place from 8am to 8pm as follows:

17 May – Greatworth Sports and Social Club car park, Helmdon Rd, Greatworth

21 May – Waddesdon Church of England School car park, Baker Street, Waddesdon

24 May – Chipping Warden Village Hall car park, Culworth Road, Chipping Warden

26 May – Calvert Green Community Centre car park, Cotswold Way, Calvert

27 & 28 May – Brackley Leisure Centre, Springfield Way, Brackley

A total of 13 councils are already part of the campaign to oppose HS2, all of which have signed up to the following position statement: "The authorities along the route have come together to oppose the proposals for high-speed rail as they are currently proposed. We do not believe that the business case stacks up and therefore cannot support the route suggested by Government and are actively working on a plan to strongly object to the proposals. We are opposed to the current high-speed rail proposals as they are presently outlined and do not believe that they are in the best interests of the UK as a whole in terms of the benefits claimed in the business case. We are not opposed to the need for higher-speed rail per se and fully acknowledge the need for strategic improvement to the national rail infrastructure but cannot agree with the current proposals as the economic and environmental benefits are not at all credible. We do not believe that all the other alternatives to achieve the transport capacity, regeneration and environmental benefits have been fully explored by the Government and with in excess of £30billion proposed to be invested, we owe it to the nation to ensure these are fully explored."

* The councils currently involved in the campaign to oppose current plans for HS2 are:

* Buckinghamshire County Council

* Aylesbury Vale District Council

* Chiltern District Council

* South Bucks District Council

* Wycombe District Council

* London Borough of Hillingdon

* Cherwell District Council

* Lichfield District Council

* South Northants District Council

* Warwick District Council

* North Warwickshire Borough Council

* Warwickshire County Council

* Stratford-on-Avon District Council

* The public consultation started on Monday, February 28 and will to run until the end of July. Following the consultation, HS2 Limited will report back to the Department for Transport by December 2011 in preparation for the Hybrid Bill (a mixture of public and private Bills) which is expected to be presented to Parliament in 2013.

* Visit www.highspeedrail.dft.gov.uk for full details of the consultation events taking place along the proposed HS2 route. These will give people the opportunity to find out more about the project and discuss specific concerns with experts from HS2 Ltd and DfT. Maps and information will be available, including all the documents which were used to develop the proposals and the strategic thinking behind them. They will also provide explanatory fact sheets on a wide range of issues including local impacts and benefits. DVDs containing all of the documents and maps available will also be available.

* The public can also contact the HS2 public enquiry team at HS2enquiries@HS2.gsi.gov.uk or on 020 7944 4908. For further information please contact:

Craig Forsyth      Tel: 01295 221639         Email: craig.forsyth@cherwell-dc.gov.uk

(note: The Webmaster is personally opposed to this project as the route runs straight through the middle of the farm at Lower Boddington which he bought in 1948 to provide his family's living).

Concessionary fare scheme changes

From 1 April responsibility for the concessionary fare scheme, which issues bus passes and tokens, will transfer from Cherwell District Council to Oxfordshire County Council. All bus passes will continue until they expire, when new bus passes will be issued. They will be usable from 9am to 11pm daily. They can be used across Oxfordshire but other counties may have different arrangements. Also from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012 bus passes can be used on Dial-a-Ride services by those who are unable to use normal bus services due to infirmity and who are registered with Dial-a-Ride. Companion passes for journeys in Oxfordshire will still be available for those in receipt of carers allowance, who are unable to use public transport unaided. From 1 April no further travel tokens will be issued. Existing and unused travel tokens are still valid until they are used up. Travel tokens can be used on buses, Dial-a-Ride, and taxis. But it’s advisable to check with the taxi operator before travelling to make sure that they still accept them. Dial-a-Ride is not affected by these changes except that from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012 people who are registered with Dial-a-Ride and are unable to use normal public transport due to infirmity will be able to use their bus passes on Dial-a-Ride services.

Cllr Michael Gibbard, Cherwell District Council's portfolio holder for planning and housing, said: "Cherwell District Council is keen to ensure that this transition goes as smoothly as possible. We will help in any way we can to make sure disruption is kept to a minimum. Because of this Cherwell District Council will continue to administer bus pass issuing and deal with enquiries on the county council's behalf until 31 March 2012."

For further information email customer.service@cherwell-dc.gov.uk, take a look at the website www.cherwell-dc.gov.uk, or phone 01295 227001.

                   Have YOU ever thought about FOSTERING?

There is a recognised shortage of 10,000 Foster Carers in the UK . PACT (Parents And Children Together), founded in 1911, is also known as the Oxford Diocesan Council for Social Work inc. We are a registered charity working to improve life chances for children. The focus of our work is within Berkshire , Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire and aims to build and strengthen families. We are an approved Adoption and Fostering Agency. We have a history of finding safe, loving families for children in care. Here are a few facts about Fostering:

1. Did you know you don't have to be married to become a Foster Carer?
2. You don't have to have children already although you do need to have experience of caring for children.
3. Did you know you get paid a Fostering Allowance of £335.70 a week to be a Foster Carer which is tax free and won't affect any other benefits?
4. Most of the children who need fostering are known as ‘hard to place' children, they will usually be 8+ years of age.

Fostering is a hard but very rewarding job. If you think you might have what it takes to become a Permanent Foster Carer or you want to find out more then contact PACT now on 0800 731 1845 e-mail fostering@pactcharity.org or visit www.pactcharity.org

JOB HUNTING? Cherwell's new guide tells you what you need to know

Cherwell District Council, in association with its Job Club partners, has published an essential guide for Cherwell residents who are facing redundancy and looking for job. It offers advice on redundancy, money matters, job hunting, careers, and training. There are all the local contact details for organisations job seekers may need to get in touch with, including information on what to expect from the weekly Job Clubs in Banbury and Bicester. Cherwell residents can get a copy by phoning the Job Club helpline, 01295 221863 or visiting one of the Banbury or Bicester Job Clubs. It can also be downloaded from the Job Club page of Cherwell District Council's website, www.cherwell.gov.uk, by following the job club link on the homepage. Partners such as Banbury and Bicester Citizen's Advice Bureau also have copies of the guide, as well as Cherwell's one stop shops and the libraries. Cllr Norman Bolster, Cherwell's portfolio holder for economic development and estates, said: “This Essential Guide for our residents facing redundancy or looking for a job recognises that people want to have information together in one place. That way they will know what advice and support they can expect, and where they can get it from locally. If you or someone you know could benefit from this guide then call the Job Club helpline today on 01295 221863.”

EXCESSIVE NOISE

If you have a complaint or enquiry about excessive noise, the telephone number to ring is: 01295 221623 or Mobile 07974 326738 and ask for Mr R. Lowther. Alternatively, residents may write to him at: Bodicote House, or email: rob.lowther@cherwell-dc.gov.uk

LINK FOR RURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING MONTHLY NEWS UPDATE

This is a new addition to be found on the LINKS page, which reports monthly on the Thames Valley Police Neighbourhood Watch activities for the Banbury Rural Area. This includes the PCSO's report on reported misdemeanours in Cropredy, and the action taken - where applicable. Residents are encouraged to make a note of where and how they can contact the relevant authorities, in order to report any offences which they may have noticed. This is essential if this new scheme is to work properly and all communications with the Police will be treated with privacy.

CHURCHES SOS

Churches have been the target recently of theft of lead from roofs. These thefts are moving closer to our area, the latest being in Bodicote. We would ask that if you live close to the Church, or are walking or driving in the area, that you please look out for ladders on the outside of the Church, with unknown vans parked in the vicinity. If you do notice anything unusual, please contact the police to let them know. Thefts may, of course, happen at night. There is no work planned to take place on the outside of the building in the near future. Thanks for your help. Regrettably a theft has recently occured and residents are asked to be especially vigilant and note registration number/s of any unusual or strange vehicles parked in Roundbottom adjacent to the entrance of Hell Hole in the late evening or during the night.

Siobhan Croft, on behalf of Cropredy PCC

LATE NIGHT FIREWORKS

Older residents, and Others who have cats and dogs as pets in their house, are voicing considerable concern about unannounced late night pyrotechnics. The elderly who retire early have their sleep disturbed and most owners of cats and dogs are having to calm their petrified pets when the detonations are taking place. Without wishing to detract from the fun of the fireworks party, organisers should take this into consideration when making arrangements. It would be helpful and courteous if an early warning could be given to householders within 200 metres of when the event is to take place. This could be done by word of mouth, a flyer through the letter box, a notice in the Crier or a few words on this website. The 'fall out' from the spent rockets could also be somewhat injurious and unwanted. Organisers are further reminded that it is illegal to set off fireworks between the hours of 11.00pm and 7.00am.

CROPREDY HISTORICAL SOCIETY - 1977 JUBILEE FILM.

A Cine Film depicting Cropredy Village celebrations to mark the Queen's Silver Jubilee has been transferred to DVD and VHS format. Copies are available at £5 each. For details contact Martyn Lester - Tel: 750397.

CCTV CAMERAS UP AND RUNNING.

The new system of crime detection and prevention, using the latest technology in camera equipment, is now operational at the Sports Field and Tennis Courts. The new installation provides clear identification of vandals and thieves and is acceptable evidence for arrests and court cases.