Archived News - Parish Council
Bower Lane Cemetery
Losing a loved one is a sad and distressing experience, and funerals are important and personal. During this very difficult time for the country, the Government's aim is to protect the most vulnerable from the spread of Coronavirus.
Public Health England (PHE) have stipulated that funerals must be conducted in a manner consistent with social distancing principles to avoid the further spread of Covid-19.
We are very mindful of such a sensitive matter, however we also have to consider guidance from the Government – the key outcome is that funerals should continue, as normally as possible for now, but take into account the guidelines issue for minimising the risk of transmission. To help reduce the risk of spreading the infection, advice is for a restriction on the number of mourners who attend funerals, so a safe distance of at least 2 metres can be maintained between individuals. Only members of the deceased person's household or close family members should attend funerals. During the service, all mourners should remain two metres apart from anyone not living in their household at all times. Refrain from making physical contact with anyone outside of your household. Any individual displaying symptoms of COVID-19 should not attend. Also, we would discourage those in the vulnerable group, over 70 or with health conditions from attending. Those who do attend will need to adhere to social distancing at all times, including when travelling to and from the funeral.
The cemetery, at this time, will remain open for visitors, but only if this forms part of their daily exercise. We ask visitors to observe social distancing guidelines, by keeping two metres apart.
Eaton Bray Parish Council will continue to review the situation in line with government advice. We appreciate your understanding in this matter and thank you for working with us in such challenging times.
Eaton Bray Play Parks Temporary Closure
Eaton Bray play parks temporary closure
Following Government advice, the Eaton Bray play parks in School Lan Recreation Ground and The Rye Recreation Ground are closed.
Whilst the open space remains open for public exercise in line with the Government's guidance, please ensure your children do not use the swings, slides and other play equipment during this time of isolation. This is to aid in the stopping of the spread of COVID-19 and we urge all parishioners to abide by this guidance.
Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
Eaton Bray Parish Council meetings
In light of the recent Government announcements relating to limiting gatherings and encouraging social distancing to reduce the spread of Coronavirus, members of Eaton Bray Parish Council have concluded that the Parish Council Meeting on Monday 6th April 2020 should be cancelled and the Annual Parish Meeting & Annual Meeting of Eaton Bray Parish Council be moved back to Monday 25th May 2020. However, we are continually monitoring developments related to Coronavirus very closely in line with guidance from the Government and may have to make the decision to re-schedule future Parish Council meeting dates.
The Parish Council are disappointed to come to this decision, but these are unprecedented times and are working hard to protect ourselves and others. We are aware that those who attend meetings (members of public/Parish Councillors) may be elderly and some have underlying health conditions - putting them in the high risk category if they contract Coronavirus.
The Parish Council will still be actively acting on your behalf and should you have any concerns/issues you can contact The Parish Clerk or Chairman of the Parish Council, Cllr Marie Brewer.
Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
Coronavirus
The Parish Council urge all parishioners to check the Government's official Coronavirus web page for advice, updates and information if you are concerned.
In light of the current Coronavirus situation the Pastoral Care Team at St. Mary's, Eaton Bray welcomes your assistance in identifying any of our parishioners who might be sick or otherwise benefit from their support during this challenging time.
Please contact Gaye Soule or send an email to [email protected] in this regard.
The Eaton Bray Good Neighbours scheme will continue to operate and the details of what they can do can be seen in Focus.
Call them if you need assistance and they may be able to help. The line is manned from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. At other times you can leave a message.
Cancelled: Eaton Bray Litter Pick, Saturday 18 April
This event has now been cancelled
We are planning a litter pick on Saturday 18th April 2020.
A chance for the whole family, local clubs and groups, to get together and do something for the environment. Please come and help clean up the village - every piece of plastic/rubbish collected is a piece of plastic/rubbish that doesn't get into our rivers and seas.
We will meet in the car park on School Lane at 10am. Please wear strong shoes. We will provide litter grabbers, gloves and Hi-Viz jackets but please bring your own if you have them.
For further information please call Roy Michel or Marie Brewer.
Parish Council Meeting - March 2020
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd March 2020 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 3rd February 2020 are also now available.
Parish Council Meeting - December 2019
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd December 2019 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 4th November 2019 are also now available.
Parish Council Meeting - November 2019
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 4th November 2019 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 7th October 2019 are also now available.
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around Eaton Bray - 20 December 2019
Celebrate Christmas with Eaton Bray Parish Council.
Enjoy Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
Friday 20th December 2019 from 7.30pm
To help us all get in the Christmas spirit, the Parish Council have again arranged for the brass ensemble to play Christmas Carols around Eaton Bray on the evening of the 20th December 2019.
The evening commences from 7:30pm at Three Corners moving to Market Square/White Horse at 8:15pm.
All adults & children are urged to come outside and have a good old Christmas sing-a-long.
(song sheets will be available but please bring your own torch/lantern)
Celebrate in style
Subject to weather conditions.
Neighbourhood Plan - Declaration of Result of Poll
DECLARATION OF RESULT OF POLL
Central Bedfordshire
Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan Referendum
I Brian Dunleavy, being the Deputy Counting Officer at the above referendum held on Thursday 3 October 2019, do hereby give notice that the results of the votes cast is as follows:
| Question: Do you want Central Bedfordshire Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Eaton Bray Parish to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood areas? |
||
|---|---|---|
| Votes Recorded | Percentage | |
| Number cast in favour of a Yes | 469 | 91.24% |
| Number cast in favour of a No | 44 | 8.56% |
| The number of ballot papers rejected was as follows: | Number of ballot papers |
|---|---|
| A want of an official mark | |
| B voting for more answers than required | |
| C writing or mark by which voter could be identified | |
| D being unmarked or wholly void for uncertainty | 1 |
| E rejected in park | |
| Total | 514 |
And I do hereby declare that more than half of those voting have voted in favour of the Neighbourhood Plan.
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Counting Officer
Dated: Thursday 3 October 2019
Printed and published by the Deputy Counting Officer, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ
Parish Council Meeting - October 2019
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th October 2019 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 2nd September 2019 are also now available.
Notice of Poll and Situation of Polling Stations
NOTICE OF POLL AND SITUATION OF
POLLING STATIONS
Central Bedfordshire
Referendum on the adoption of the
Neighbourhood Plan for Eaton Bray Parish
Notice is hereby given that:
- A referendum will be held on Thursday, 3rd October 2019 to decide on the question below:
'Do you want Central Bedfordshire to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Eaton Bray Parish to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?'
- The hours of poll will be from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
- The Situation of polling stations and the description of persons entitled to vote thereat are as follows:
No. of polling station Situation of polling station Description of persons
entitled to voteBOX1 Eaton Bray Village Hall, Church Lane,
Eaton Bray, DunstableEB2-3 to EB2-2098
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Counting Officer
Dated: Thursday 25 September 2019
Printed and published by Counting Officer, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ
Notice of Referendum - 3rd October 2019
NOTICE OF REFERENDUM
Referendum on the adoption of the
Neighbourhood Plan for Eaton Bray Parish
- A referendum will be held on Thursday, 3rd October 2019 to decide on the question below:
'Do you want Central Bedfordshire to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Eaton Bray Parish to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?'
- New applications for, or amendments or cancellations of postal votes and amendments or cancellations of existing proxy votes must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Wednesday, 18th September 2019.
- New applications to vote by proxy at this referendum must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at the above address by 5 pm on Wednesday, 25th September 2019.
- Applications to vote by proxy at this referendum applied for on grounds of physical incapacity, or because of work reason that occurred after 5 pm on Wednesday 25th September 2019 must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Thursday, 3rd October 2019.
Deputy Counting Officer
Brian Dunleavy
Dated: Thursday 29 August 2019
Printed and published by Deputy Counting Officer, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ
Parish Council Meeting - September 2019
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd September 2019 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 1st July 2019 are also now available.
Neighbourhood Plan Referendum Information Statement
Neighbourhood Plan - Public Open Session - 5 September 2019
The Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan to help protect our village for the future has been completed. There will be a public referendum on 3rd October 2019, but the Parish Council will be holding a public open session where parishioners can come to ask any questions about it ahead of the public vote to adopt this important plan for the village's future.
The open day will be on the 5th September 2019 from 4-8pm at The Coffee Tavern. Please attend.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - July 2019
Well, we are nearly there!
The NP has been through its formal Consultations including with CBC. An Examiner was appointed a couple of months ago and he proposed a number of amendments to Policies. The amendments supported our NP adding strength generally and improving our Sustainability Policy. All good! The next stage is the referendum, if we achieve over 50% approval in the referendum the NP will be classed as MADE and will sit alongside other formal Planning Policies for all Planning Applications in Eaton Bray up to 2035.
Summary of some (not all) of the achievements proposed in the NP:
- To protect the Green Belt on its present boundaries.
- To protect and enhance the special heritage assets of the village and its rural character.
- To protect and improve the biodiversity value of the Parish.
- To encourage walking in and around the village, and to better manage the harmful effects of traffic.
- To sustain the range of community facilities, shops and businesses that are essential to community life.
- To ensure that where infill development occurs, smaller and starter one, two and threebedroom homes are built.
- Growth restricted to infill sites outside the Green Belt.
- When a new dwelling is built it must provide a minimum of 1 parking space per new bedroom.
- New dwellings will be highly sustainable.
The referendum should be held on 3rd October 2019 in mid-September 2019 or early November 2019.
During the July Parish Council meeting Councillors decided to hold an open meeting on 5th September 2019 in the Coffee Tavern, all residents will be invited to come along and discuss the NP, ask questions and see the Plan documents. The open meeting will be publicised on Facebook and notice boards around the village.
EBPC would like to send a huge thank you to everybody who helped in the development of this NP, especially all steering group members - whether you joined us for one meeting or a couple of dozen, thank you!
Neighbourhood Plan Drop-in session
Thursday 5th September 2019, 4pm – 8pm, The Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray (1st floor)
All residents are invited to come along and discuss the NP, ask questions and see the Plan documents.
To understand the process and next steps. More details to follow – Facebook/Notice Boards.
Thank you.
Glenn Wigley
Chairman EBPC NP
Edited 16th August 2019 with referendum date and change of drop-in session times.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - May 2019
Several months have passed since I last wrote in Focus, I imagine those of you who follow the Neighbourhood Plan (NP) have been wondering what has happened. The answer is quite a lot, most activities have been administrative with very little to report, but I am now able to give an update.
Following our consultation and village meetings held in the Coffee Tavern last summer we submitted our NP to Central Bedfordshire (CBC) at the beginning of December. CBC were then able to commence their review of our NP by holding a "Regulation 16 Consultation" early in 2019, this is a second check on our NP making sure that we comply with Neighbourhood Planning Law as well as giving various statutory consultees an opportunity to consider our NP again. Which is lucky that we did, the Chilterns Conservation Board who look after Dunstable Downs (and lots of other very important ANOB's) had a lot to say and gave us some important advice.
The Reg. 16 Consultation completed at the end of March and in April CBC appointed an independent examiner in accordance with current NP regulations. The examiner wrote to the Parish Council on 30th April, a copy of this letter can be found on the Parish website along with his 30 questions, plenty for me to do over the next week, roll on my family holiday….
If we answer the examiner's questions to his satisfaction, there will be a referendum (that dreaded word!) later in the year.
We hope that you found this update useful, I know planning stuff can be boring, but the alternative may not be what we would like for the village.
This and other documents are posted on the Parish web site www.ebpc.co.uk follow the link to Neighbourhood Plan. Send your comments to the Parish Clerk at [email protected]
Thank you.
Glenn Wigley - Chairman EBPC NP
Stand as a Parish Councillor
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Stand as a Parish Councillor
Polling Day is Thursday 2nd May 2019
Make a difference to your Parish
- Get involved with your community
- Have a say about the local issues people care about
- Influence local service delivery
- Decide how local money is spent to improve your community
For nomination packs contact Heidi Head, Parish Clerk, Eaton Bray Parish Council
Parish Council Meeting - February 2019
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 4th February 2019 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 7th January 2019 are also now available.
Parish Council Meeting - January 2019
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th January 2019 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 3rd December 2018 are also now available.
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around Eaton Bray - 21 December 2018
Celebrate Christmas with Eaton Bray Parish Council.
Enjoy Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
Friday 21st December 2018 from 7.30pm
To help us all get in the Christmas spirit, the Parish Council have again arranged for the brass ensemble to play Christmas Carols around Eaton Bray on the evening of the 21st December 2018.
The evening commences from 7:30pm at Three Corners moving to Market Square/White Horse at 8:15pm.
All adults & children are urged to come outside and have a good old Christmas sing-a-long.
(song sheets will be available but please bring your own torch/lantern)
Celebrate in style
Subject to weather conditions.
Parish Council Meeting - December 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 3rd December 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 5th November 2018 are also now available.
Christmas Market - Saturday 15 December 11am-5pm
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Christmas Market
Saturday 15th December 2018, 11am-5pm
Market Square, Eaton Bray
(green outside The White Horse Public House
Parish Council Meeting - November 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 5th November 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 1st October 2018 are also now available.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - October 2018
We are under attack, over the past month or so developers have made Planning Applications (or indicated to the Parish Council their intention) to build houses at various locations in Eaton Bray - namely off Northall Road, on the recently closed Rye Nursery, in Bower Lane opposite Café Masala and of course behind School Lane off Eaton Park. Also, as many of you are aware, the garden roadside wall bounding Old Ley Farm was partly demolished (removal of this 'listed' wall will enable development of the land behind). Demolition was only stopped when residents called the police and CBC's Planning enforcement team - our local MP Andrew Selous is supporting reinstatement of the wall and written to CBC on our behalf.
Our Neighbourhood Plan proposes (amongst other things) the following:
- To protect the Green Belt on existing boundaries.
- New housing should be sustainable and compatible with the heritage and character of the village.
- New homes should be 2 or 3 bedrooms, be suitable as starter homes or downsizing with sufficient off road parking.
- Avoid 4 bedroom executive houses.
Please support our Neighbourhood Plan, which when made will help protect our village and support appropriate development.
For more detail please see the Consultation documents which are still available to be downloaded from the Parish web site www.ebpc.uk
Thank you for supporting our work over the past 3 years, the Neighbourhood Plan is nearly complete. Final proof reading and editing is underway and consultant's reports are finished. We will soon be presenting the Plan to the Parish Council for approval before passing on to CBC and ultimately the Inspector. If the green light is given a referendum will be held.
We hope that you found this update useful, this and other documents are posted on the Parish web site www.ebpc.uk and follow the link to Neighbourhood Plan.
Send your comments to the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.uk
Thank you.
Glenn Wigley – Chairman EBPC NP
Parish Council Meeting - October 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st October 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 3rd September 2018 are also now available.
Planning Application for 120 dwellings, Bower Lane
EATON BRAY PARISH COUNCIL
Planning Application
Location: Land at Bower Lane, Eaton Bray, Beds
Description: Residential development of up to 120 dwellings
Consultation Period Expires: 17th October 2018
To comment, please click on the link below:
http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/PLANTECH/DCWebPages/acolnetcgi.gov?ACTION=UNWRAP&RIPNAME=Root.PgeResultDetail&TheSystemkey=610798
Planning Application for 12 affordable homes, Land at Park Farm, Northall Road
Please be aware of the following Planning Application and Public Exhibition which have been brought to the Parish Council's attention:
Planning Application:
(1) CB/18/02897; Land at Park Farm, Northall Road
Erection of 12 affordable homes
Public Exhibition:
(2) By Optimis Consulting on behalf of Taylor French Developments/Settle
Development of land at Bower Lane, Eaton Bray
Consultation date: Wednesday 19th September 2018, 3:00pm to 8:00pm
Location: The Coffee Tavern, High Street, Eaton Bray
Christmas Market - Call for Stall Holders
Eaton Bray Parish Council Christmas Market
Saturday 15th December 2018
Market Square, 11am - 5pm
We are looking for Market Stall Holders from Eaton Bray Parish to come forward if interested in having a stall on Market Square this Christmas.
Please contact EBPC Events Organiser.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - September 2018
The Consultation finished in June and I would like to thank everybody who attended the two village meetings and those who commented upon our Draft Neighbourhood Plan. The majority of comments supported our Policies and CBC made several helpful suggestions.
All responses to the consultation have been recorded and passed to our planning consultant who prepared a summary / analysis and proposals for changes to our Neighbourhood Plan Policies (these are the 14 Policies in our Pre Submission Plan).
We are currently summarizing our activities over the past 3 years and writing a Consultation Statement whilst our Planning expert is making amendments to Policies as needed. The next stages are:-
- Agree changes within the Steering Group
- Seek agreement from Eaton Bray Parish Council
- Submit the final documents to CBC who must approve our Plan before proceeding
- CBC appoint an independent Government Inspector to review our Plan
- If approved there will be a referendum. Each parishioner registered to vote on the electoral register will be given the opportunity to vote Yes or No in a referendum to be held later in the year or early in 2019.
We hope that you found this update useful, this and other documents are posted on the Parish web site www.ebpc.co.uk - follow the link to Neighbourhood Plan.
Please send comments to the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk
Thank you.
Cllr. Glenn Wigley – Chairman EBPC Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group
Parish Council Meeting - September 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 3rd September 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 2nd July 2018 are also now available.
Parish Council Meeting - July 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd July 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 4th June 2018 are also now available.
Consultation: Central Bedfordshire Council
CBC is carrying out a Community Governance Review consultation, which is a review of local governance - this is a review of town and parish council arrangements. The proposals put forward would have an impact on Eaton Bray Parish – the Parish Council currently have nine Parish Councillors, who carry out duties for and on behalf of the parish however CBC are proposing to reduce this number to only seven, which would have an impact on the ability of the Parish Councillors to carry out their current roles.
Eaton Bray Parish Council has responded to the consultation as follows ... "The Councillors raised concerns regarding the proposal to cut the number of Parish Councillors from nine Councillors down to seven. Due to the large amount of workload/duties carried out by the Parish Councillors [on a voluntary basis] they feel it is very important to maintain the quota of nine Parish Councillors for Eaton Bray Parish Council - to ensure the smooth running of the Council and to be able to give residents the help/support they need."
To ensure the continued work by the Parish Council, we ask if you can spare a few minutes of you time to go onto the consultation page and have your say.
The Consultation runs until the 6th July 2018.
Thank you.
Reminder: Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan Consultation
Following consultations last year the Parish Council have completed the Pre-Submission Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan. The 6-week statutory consultation period is open until 22 June 2018, and we invite residents to view and comment on the Neighbourhood Plan.
Documentation is available for you to review at www.np.ebpc.uk
Paper copies are available upon request from the Parish Clerk.
Please get involved, this is your chance to have your say. The consultation period runs until Friday 22 June 2018. Comment forms are available on www.np.ebpc.uk or write to The Clerk, Eaton Bray Parish Council, 20 Good Intent, Edlesborough, Dunstable, LU6 2RD.
Thank you for your support.
Neil Cartwright, Chair of Eaton Bray Parish Council
Glenn Wigley, Chair of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group
Parish Council Meeting - June 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 4th June 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 14th May 2018 are also now available.
Andrew Selous MP - Village Surgery - 29 May 2018
Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan Consultation
Following consultations last year the Parish Council have completed the Pre-Submission Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan. The 6-week statutory consultation period is now open, and we invite residents to view and comment on the Neighbourhood Plan.
The Neighbourhood Plan is your opportunity to shape development within our village until 2035, and tell Central Bedfordshire Council what the village wants.
Currently the village is protected by the Green Belt which limits development. This may not always be the case as the Green Belt is under threat.
Documentation is available for you to review at www.np.ebpc.uk
Paper copies are available upon request from the Parish Clerk.
We will also be holding two open meetings at the Coffee Tavern for you to discuss any concerns you may have and ask questions. Everyone is welcome.
Saturday 19 May, 9.00am-11.30am Wednesday 6 June, 7.00 pm-9.30 pm
Please get involved, this is your chance to have your say. The consultation period runs from Friday 11 May to Friday 22 June 2018. Comment forms are available on www.np.ebpc.uk or write to The Clerk, Eaton Bray Parish Council, 20 Good Intent, Edlesborough, Dunstable, LU6 2RD.
Thank you for your support.
Neil Cartwright, Chair of Eaton Bray Parish Council
Glenn Wigley, Chair of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group
Parish Council Meetings - May 2018
The next Parish Council meetings to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 14th May 2018 from 7.00pm.
- Agenda for Annual Parish Meeting of 14th May 2018
- Agenda for Annual Parish Council Meeting of 14th May 2018
The full Minutes for 9th April 2018 are also now available.
Parish Council Meeting - April 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 9th April 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 5th March 2018 are also now available.
Emergency Meeting of Eaton Bray Parish Council
Emergency Meeting of Eaton Bray Parish Council, Tuesday 27th March 2018, 7:30pm
I hereby give notice of an emergency meeting of Eaton Bray Parish Council to be held at The Coffee Tavern on Tuesday 27th March 2018 at 7:30pm.
Item for discussion: Sale of 35 High Street, Eaton Bray
Heidi R Head
Parish Clerk/RFO, Eaton Bray Parish Council
Parish Council Meeting - March 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 5th March 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 5th February 2018 are also now available.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - February 2018
Work on our Neighbourhood Plan has gone backwards over the past month. We will explain what has happened.
Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) issued their Draft Local Plan in July last year. We analysed the documents and the main issue from Eaton Bray's stand point was that the Green Belt would remain unaltered around Eaton Bray. We commented on this in our Article in September's Focus. This Draft Local Plan was positive news as the majority of Eaton Bray residents wanted to maintain the Green Belt on its current boundaries.
On 11th January 2018 CBC published the next iteration of the Local Plan but unfortunately there was a surprise, CBC had allocated land behind Eaton Park for development! 49 houses in the Green Belt. Residents throughout Eaton Bray are dismayed, we wrote to the Head of Planning at CBC and to our Local MP Andrew Selous, but we appear to have little or no influence. Pressing on, we will comment upon the Local Plan, we have made our objections known, and will attend the Planning Committee meeting that can pass or refuse the Planning Application at Eaton Park. The NP Steering Group is supporting the wishes of the residents of Eaton Bray and we should know the result over the next month or so.
Meanwhile drafting our NP continues, the majority of the Draft NP is written but we need to add some historical details and make minor improvements.
As always we will do our best to keep everybody informed through the Parish Web site and in Focus.
Keep your eyes on the Parish Council web site and Facebook page for more information. If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research. Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk
Please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting which are planned for the last Monday of the month, 19:30hrs at The Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Please contact us on [email protected] if you would like to come along.
Eaton Bray Parish Burial/Cemetery Land
Feedback required
To: All Residents Eaton Bray Parish
Within the parish there is a lack of available land for burials, the current land will be full/unavailable within a few years.
The Council would like to guage residents' opinions on the Council spending money to purchase additional burial land, allowing parish burials to continue for many more years to come.
Please write/email the Parish Clerk with your comments/views.
Thanks you.
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Parish Council Meeting - January 2018
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 8th January 2018 at 7.30pm.
The full Minutes for 4th December 2017 are also now available.
Outline Planning Permission - 58 Dwellings on land adjacent to Eaton Park, Eaton Bray
EATON BRAY – OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION
58 Dwellings on land adjacent to Eaton Park, Eaton Bray
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
APPLICATION NUMBER: CB/17/05645/OUT
OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION: Residential development comprising up to 58 dwellings on land adjacent to Eaton Park, Eaton Bray, LU6 2SP
Eaton Bray Parish Council wished to remind all residents that the deadline for response to the above outline Planning Application is the 8th January 2018. To view and comment, please follow the link below:
*** UPDATE 27 December 2017 ***
The Parish Council has been in communication with Central Bedfordshire Council regarding the date of the consultation period for the above application. They have heard back today (27/12/17) from CBC confirming that the statutory consultation period will run until 8 January 2018, following the posting of site notices in the location.
Eaton Bray Christmas Market - 22nd & 23rd December 2017
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Christmas Market
Friday 22nd & 23rd December 2017, 11am-9pm
Market Square, Eaton Bray
(green outside The White Horse Public House)
Subject to weather conditions
Notice: tree work, School Lane recreation ground
Christmas Market 2017 - Eaton Bray Parish Council
EATON BRAY PARISH COUNCIL
Christmas Market 2017
Eaton Bray Parish Council are looking for stall holders for the Christmas Market, being held on
22nd & 23rd December 2017, 11am to 9pm
Where: Market Square
(the green in front of The White Horse Pub) Cost / Paperwork: It's free to have a stall on Market Square.
If you are cooking / making food items to sell, please send all the relevant paperwork to the Parish Clerk and ensure you have a copy with you on the actual day/s.
Stalls: The stall will not be any bigger than 8ft long (you will have to provide your own tables, lights and pop-up tent/gazebo)
No parking or driving onto the Market Square green at any time Car parking: Car parking is limited – please find somewhere safe to park.
Please note that there is no parking in the White Horse Pub car park unless you have made prior arrangements with them.
If interested - please contact the Parish Clerk on [email protected]
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around Eaton Bray - 22 December 2017
Celebrate Christmas with Eaton Bray Parish Council.
Enjoy Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
Friday 22nd December 2017 from 7.30pm
To help us all get in the Christmas spirit, the Parish Council have again arranged for the brass ensemble to play Christmas Carols around Eaton Bray on the evening of the 22nd December 2017.
The evening commences from 7:30pm at Three Corners moving to Market Square/White Horse at 8:15pm.
All adults & children are urged to come outside and have a good old Christmas sing-a-long.
(song sheets will be available but please bring your own torch/lantern)
Celebrate in style
Subject to weather conditions.
Trafalgar Day - 21 October
Trafalgar Day
21st October 1805
To recognise Trafalgar Day on the 21st October, a Royal Naval Ensign will be flown from the village flag pole. Admiral Horatio Nelson led the British Fleet in the defeat of a combined French-Spanish fleet at Cape Trafalgar, off the coast of southern Spain. In one stroke, this naval action destroyed Napoleon's plans to invade Britain from across the channel. Nelson lost his life that day, 21st October 1805, but is justly immortalised as one of Britain's greatest heros.
Further reading on the life of Nelson & his heroic exploits can be found at bbc.co.uk/history/british/empire_seapower/trafalgar_01.shtml
Central Bedfordshire Council's consultation on school admission arrangements for 2019/20
Central Bedfordshire Council has launched their consultation on school admission arrangements for Community and Voluntary Controlled Schools for the academic year 2019/2020.
Full details of the consultation and the response form are available at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations
Source: School Admissions Team, Central Bedfordshire Council
Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire
The results of the recent Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire have now been published by the Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group.
To read the full report, please see
Neighbourhood Development Plan - September 2017
Your Neighbourhood Plan!!!
What a turn out! At the two recent drop in sessions that were held at the Coffee Tavern to enable YOU, the Parishioner's, to shape the future of the village we had an around 225 people sharing their views and learning about what's been going on around planning in Central Bedfordshire. Even some of the residents who were "born and bred" took something away, even if it was a nostalgic view of the old village pictures around the walls of the Coffee Tavern.
We also had a return of around 340 public consultation questionnaires which is a resounding success, representing the views of around 30% plus response which is really great. We've analyzed the responses and summarized the various comments that you made and list below a flavour of the main results.
- People generally wanted the Village to retain its rural character, its public green spaces and its autonomy.
- In terms of development, the benefit of being surrounded by Green Belt was appreciated and that any new development would be effectively infilling.
- There is a preference for medium sized properties (no more large executive style houses) and a greater emphasis on smaller starter homes and properties that the elder generation can down size into, thereby releasing under used larger properties.
- Aspects that were not popular were the instances of flooding, poor road conditions, speeding in the village, parking, and poor mobile telephone signal.
- Improvements in public transport and traffic calming would be welcome.
Whilst this is a very high level summary of the results, we have posted the full analysis on the Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan web site which any one is welcome to review and comment. The web site address is www.ebpc.co.uk and follow the link to Neighbourhood Plan.
The next step is for the steering group to develop specific policies that reflect this consultation and prepare a series of documents, for the Parishioner's to review and comment upon, prior to a public referendum of acceptance or otherwise.
This is public consultation planned for the New Year.
Please review the documents and continue to participate in shaping the development of "Your Village".
Send your comments to the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk
Neil Cartwright
Chairman of the Parish Council
Eaton Bray Parish Council Christmas Market
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Christmas Market
We are looking for market stall holders from the Eaton Bray Parish to come forward if interested in having a stall on the Market Square this Christmas.
Please contact the Parish Clerk on [email protected]
Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan
A BIG thank you to those of you who have completed a questionnaire and to those of you who have attended the first Drop In session at the Coffee Tavern together with any comments you have made. These are being collated at the moment and, together with those received by the second next Drop In session, will provide very valuable information to help develop the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan. The results will be published when fully collated.
If you haven't already filled in a questionnaire or you need another for a member of your household please find one with this flyer and either drop it in the collection boxes or bring it along to the Drop In session on Saturday 16th September between 09.30 and 12.00
Once again thank you very much for your input to date and please remember it's YOUR plan, for YOUR village, decided by you.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Neighbourhood Development Plan - August 2017
Hi from the Parish Council Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group.
Work on our Neighbourhood Plan (NP) has continued this summer, we held our first village "drop in" meeting on Monday evening 14th August 2017 and second is planned for Saturday 16th September 2017. We chose an evening and weekend about a month apart to give as many people as possible an opportunity to attend.
An advertising flyer was delivered to every home in the village along with a short questionnaire. Response so far has been very good with over 130 attending our first drop in meeting and 206 questionnaires completed so far. The Steering Group would like to say a big thank you for your support. We are now busy preparing for the second drop in meeting and analysing the questionnaires, plenty for our little steering group to do.
Central Bedfordshire issued the Draft Local Plan and we responded to their consultation in August. The most notable proposal in the Draft Local Plan is that CBC do not propose to revise the Green Belt in and around Eaton Bray.
To conclude we have had a successful summer with good attendance at our meeting and plenty of comments to help form and direct our policies in our NP. The next steps are to analyse this new information and start writing the NP. As always we will do our best to keep everybody informed through the Parish Web site and in Focus.
Keep your eyes on the Parish Council web site and Facebook page for more information. If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research. Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk
Please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting which is planned for the last Monday of the month, 19.30 at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray. Please contact us on [email protected] if you would like to come along.
Help Shape the Future of Eaton Bray
HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF EATON BRAY
Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan
Are you concerned about the possibility of development?
Or our school, healthcare, ecology, heritage, transport?
YOUR VIEWS MATTER!
Come and meet us at one of the 2 community consultation drop-in sessions at the Coffee Tavern to find out about the Neighbourhood Plan and Have Your Say.
EATON BRAY NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
WWW.EBPC.CO.UK Drop-in sessions at the Coffee Tavern
Monday 14 August 2017
6.30pm – 9.00pm
And on Saturday
16th September
9.30am – 12.00pm
Free refreshments
────
All residents and businesses are welcome
Neighbourhood Development Plan - June 2017
Hi again from the Parish Council Steering Group.
We missed reporting the last two months as we were waiting for the release of Central Bedfordshire Council's (CBC) draft Local Plan (LP). In law the Neighbourhood Plan cannot conflict with the LP.
The pre-draft Local Plan was issued on 20th June 2017 and the full draft LP formally released on 4th July 2017. We have been very busy carefully reviewing CBC's intentions and plansalong with the Green BeltReview which, for a village within the Green Belt, is key to future development. Housing within the Green Belt is only allowed under "very special circumstances" hence our desire to carefully review CBC's policies.
Following release of the LP on 4th July CBC will commence an 8 week consultation where we, the public, have an opportunity to comment and potentially alter the Plan. Should you like to attend one of CBC's "drop in" sessions the nearest is on 9th August 2017 at Caddington Sports and Social Club - 2:00pm to 8:00pm.
The Steering Group have decided to hold two open public consultation meetings to inform and discuss our work so far and to give villagers an opportunity to have their say. Topics which we will present include:-
- The Green Belt
- CBC's proposals for development in Eaton Bray
- Sustainable housing
- Built heritage
- Biodiversity
We will also ask you questions:-
- What development would you like to see in Eaton Bray?
- How many houses would you like built?
- What would you like to see protected, landscape / village character / Flora & Fauna etc.?
- HAVE YOUR SAY!
We plan to hold two consultation meetings so that if one date is inconvenient then hopefully you will be able to attend the other. These meetings are important as we very much wish to obtain a consensus of opinion across the village. Dates are:-
- Monday 14th August 2017 from 6.30pm to 9.00pm
- Saturday 16th September 2017 from 9.30am to 12.00noon
Signs will be placed around Eaton Bray and advertisements on the Parish web site and Facebook.
Keep your eyes on the Parish Council web site and Facebook page for more information. If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research. Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk
Please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting which are planned for the last Monday of the month. 7:30pm at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Please contact us on [email protected] if you would like to come along.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - March 2017
So far in the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group we have been looking at the positive featuresof Eaton Bray, our historic buildings, beautiful landscape, wonderful biodiversity and heritage.Government legislation through the Localism Act gives us Neighbourhood Planning and directsus to make provision for new housing. A year ago CBC advised the Steering Group that weshould make provision for 150 new dwellings. However the UK has changed, we are now postBrexit, Trump and perhaps more importantly the Housing White Paper was published.
This month we decided to question the direction that we are expected to take with thefollowing message to CBC.
The EBNP Steering Group have reached a point where we need some clarification to assist us before we hold a public consultation, and bearing in mind the Housing White Paper has been issued where the Government is clearly supporting / maintaining the Green Belt. Could you please answer the following questions which we would expect to be raised at a public consultation?
- Have you completed your Housing Needs Assessment including the area around Eaton Bray?
- Have you completed your Green Belt review?
- Please advise the very exceptional circumstances for releasing land from the GB in and around Eaton Bray.
- What is your expectation for future growth in Eaton Bray and the basis for your calculations?
- Are there any sites around Eaton Bray where CBC have an interest and would consider development?
Keep your eyes on the Parish Council web site and Facebook page for more information.
If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be, attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research.
Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk - please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting.
Meetings are planned for the last Monday of the month at 19.30hrs at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Parish Council Minutes - February 2017
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th February 2017
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 3rd April, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - February 2017
The Neighbourhood Steering Group have had another busy month, a large number of us from the village, including steering group members visited the Eaton Park exhibition by Willis Dawson. This exhibition caused quite a lot of concern and activity. The Parish Council meeting was attended by three times the usual number of public visitors and five more joined the February steering group meeting. There is nothing like a proposed new large development to push us into action. I received a number of messages about this development most of which expressed concern over the amount of traffic that would use Eaton Park and the effect that 70 new homes would have on our village i.e. drainage, sewage, flooding, school, parking, cars and traffic.
During our meeting we discussed where new dwellings could be sited, this is a particularly difficult question as most positions affect someone or an important part of our village, we all would prefer not to lose the things we enjoy about our environment. Nevertheless new homes are inevitable. The good news is that we have collected lots of information about Eaton Bray's biodiversity, heritage, historic and listed buildings so we are getting a better idea of what to avoid. We also carried out a short traffic survey which indicated that more traffic travels South at peak times rather than North. We plan to carry out another survey when the new M1 / A5 link is open.
Finally, we are now getting to the stage where we will hold a community consultation so that we can get your views on how the Neighbourhood Plan is shaping up. It is vital that residents, businesses and community groups make their views known to us including direction of growth of the village, sites that should be developed, parking and traffic issues, wildlife and biodiversity.
Keep your eyes on the Parish Council web site and Facebook page for more information.
If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research.
Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk - please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting.
Meetings are planned for the last Monday of the month at 19.30hrs at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Parish Council Minutes - January 2017
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 9th January 2017
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 6th March, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Neighbourhood Development Plan - January 2017
Not just about housing!
EBPC's Steering Group (made up of Parish Councillors and volunteer residents) are continuing to write the Neighbourhood Plan in order to protect our village from unwanted housing development.
We have been busy this month, the Environment Group continues their work collecting data on our bio diversity, reviewing green spaces, and identifying land that will prevent Eaton Bray growing into the next village. The Infrastructure Group has contacted utilities to investigate capacity (how can an overstretched drainage system cope with additional houses?) and by the time this is published a traffic survey will have been completed. Our third group is Housing, we have collected housing statistics and reviewed potential development sites in and around Eaton Bray.
Edlesborough Parish Council is working on their Neighbourhood Plan and issued their "Pre Submission Plan", below is an extract from our response to the consultation:
"Eaton Bray and Edlesborough are close neighbours and any future development will have an effect on each other, we have a shared doctors surgery in Cow Lane, similar traffic problems, we both suffer from poor drainage and flooding etc. We see the need to stand back and view future expansion across the two villages ... We would however welcome an increase in parking around the Cow Lane surgery."
We hope you found this update useful and in coming months we will provide information of the further work of the Steering Group. If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research.
Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk - please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting.
Meetings are planned for the last Monday of the month at 19.30 at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Source: Eaton Bray Parish Council
EBPC Neighbourhood Plan - Not just about housing!
EBPC's Steering Group (made up of Parish Councillors and volunteer residents) are continuing to write the Neighbourhood Plan in order to protect our village from unwanted housing development.
However, a Neighbourhood Plan is not just about housing and is great opportunity for residents to propose positive ideas that can improve our health and wellbeing, for example by identifying new village facilities or improving the quality of any new buildings.
In our Neighbourhood Plan, we could support opportunities that protect and maximise communal green and open spaces that will encourage the children, young people and adult residents of Eaton Bray to be more physically active. This could include looking at new ways to promote healthy lifestyle choices such as planting a community orchard or improving walking and cycle paths and marking routes that we could use for our regular trips through the village on foot, rather than in the car.
Eaton Bray is a village fully surrounded by the open countryside of the Green Belt and with so many historical and environmental assets to enjoy. The Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan will help protect these.
We hope you found this update useful and in coming months we will provide information of the further work of the Steering Group. If you feel you can offer any support please come along to our meetings. However support doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help with data collection/research.
Contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk - please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting.
Meetings are planned for the last Monday of the month at 19:30hrs at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Source: Eaton Bray Parish Council
300 More Houses in Eaton Bray
Central Beds Council will publish the draft version of their Local Plan in December 2016.. This will set out the additional development, in 3 categories (residential, employment and traveller sites), that they are looking to implement by 2030.
Landowners in Eaton Bray have submitted a greater acreage of sites than all the other villages in the near vicinity combined. Eaton Bray Parish Council have been advised by CBC that they expect 150-300 more houses to be built in Eaton Bray.
Given that there are currently just under 1200 dwellings in the village, 300 more would be an increase of 25%. All the proposed sites lie in the area from Bower Lane to The Rye inclusive. Residents need to consider the impact on:
- Roads and traffic
- Foul and surface water drainage
- Capacity for additional electricity and gas supply, water supply, telephone and broadband connections
- School places and GP services
- The consequent effect of all the above on property values
Anyone who objects to these proposals should:
- Lobby their CBC Ward Councillor, Ken Janes (01582-601317)
- Lobby EB Parish Council
- Attend a CBC meeting on 26 January 2017 2.30 to 7.30pm, venue to be advised
| ID | Site Address | Site Size (hectares) |
|---|---|---|
| ALP072 | Land to the rear of Great Green Farm, The Rye, Eaton Bray | 5.7079 |
| ALP103 | Land to the rear of Bower Lane, Eaton Bray | 8.0744 |
| ALP192 | Land adjacent to 25-57 Bower Lane, Eaton Bray | 0.573 |
| ALP423 | Land east of Northall Road, Eaton Bray | 15.8583 |
| ALP464 | Westrope Brothers, 17 The Rye, Eaton Bray | 1.0251 |
| ALP478 | Doolittle Meadow Farm, Harling Road, Eaton Bray | 8.3729 |
| NLP013 | Park Lane, Eaton Bray | 1.4189 |
| NLP204 | Land at Northall Rd, Eaton Bray LU6 2BQ | 20.29 |
| NLP250 | Bower Lane, /Dunstable Road Eaton Bray LU6 1RB | 2.15 |
| NLP300 | Land south of Bower Lane, Eaton Bray LU6 1RB | 9.8302 |
| NLP316 | Land adjacent to The Meads, Eaton Bray LU6 2DS | 12.1926 |
| NLP483 | Land off Eaton Park, Eaton Bray | 2.691 |
EBPC Neighbourhood Plan - November 2016 Update
Last month we mentioned that we had engaged the services of rCOH, a planning consultancy that has been helping many parishes to produce their Neighbourhood Plans (NP). rCOH are also supporting the Edlesborough NP and will try to achieve a consistent approach between both Plans. New houses in Edlesborough and Eaton Bray have implications on both villages; a good example of this is one shared doctor's surgery.
Some of our Steering Group, together with rCOH, met with Central Bedfordshire Council to discuss and understand the current position of the work CBC have done or are currently working through during development of the Local Plan and the role CBC's Community Plan plays in effecting our NP and the analysis and conclusions they have reached so far in providing us with information that will help us develop our NP.
Earlier in the year, in a Call For Sites request, CBC asked landowners if they wished to offer up land as potential development sites. The site assessment criteria CBC will use will be issued by the end of November (this article was written before confirmation that the publication date has been met). Once they have carried out the assessments their conclusions will be made available to us. This will also include a review of the Green Belt around the village for possible "roll back", in other words land that may be taken out of Green Belt classification. We understand that the quantity of new homes that could be required by CBC may be in the region of 150.Therefore, including the AVDC requirement for Edlesborough, the potential number for our two villages may be in the region of 300. In the coming months, the steering group will be working on identifying sites that will accommodate CBC's growth requirement and will be asking the village you for your views on the possible location of new homes in Eaton Bray.
A Neighbourhood Plan is not all about new houses we have not forgotten the environmental and infrastructure implications resulting from development. We are working on a number of topics that will provide useful information in the development of the NP. For example, in December you may have seen some of the team carrying out a traffic survey in the village at rush hour. This information will help identify which direction traffic leaves and comes into the village at peak times helping us minimise traffic disruption.
We will be engaging with the villagers over the coming months to seek views and input. We are currently focussing on having the draft plan ready for the village to review during the first half of 2017.
We hope you found this update useful and in coming months we will provide information of the further work of the Steering Group. If you feel you can offer any support, it doesn't need to be attending monthly meetings, perhaps you have the time to help a sub group in data collection/ research, please contact the Parish Clerk at www.ebpc.co.uk - please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting.
Source: Eaton Bray Parish Council
EBPC Neighbourhood Development Plan
EBPC's Steering Group are writing a Neighbourhood Plan (NP) in order to try and protect our village from unwanted housing development. You only have to look at neighbouring villages to see the effect of uncontrolled expansion. Through the NP we are looking to influence future Planning Approvals by controlling the number of houses, location and size. Other very important considerations are: Sustainable development, traffic, flood risk, biodiversity, heritage assets, landscape; including the 'gap' between Eaton Bray and nearby villages.
Working with Central Beds Council
CBC are developing their Local Plan which is similar to a NP but covering a considerably larger population and area it is a much bigger task. Our Steering Group met with CBC on 2nd November with the aim of working together to best suit the needs of EB.
Vision and Objectives
We are working on describing a vision for our plan:
- Remain a Green Belt Village
- New homes will minimise the effects of growth on the open character of the Green Belt.
- Broaden the housing stock to meet local needs.
- Special Character of the Conservation Area and Moore End are sustained.
- A more accessible and biodiverse network of green infrastructure established around the village.
- No greater risk of flooding or from inadequate facilities.
- Thriving Community facilities.
The Steering Group will be reporting progress through the Focus Magazine so that residents can keep up to date. If you would like your voice to be heard, please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting. Meetings are planned for the last Monday of the month at 19:30hrs at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Please send your suggestions / comments regarding Planning Issues only to The Clerk.
Notice of Road Closure - Sunday 13th November 2016
Notice of Road Closure
Remembrance Service, Sunday 13th November 2016
War Memorial, St Mary's Church, Eaton Bray
Section of High Street, Eaton Bray from 10.50am to 11.15am
Parish Council Minutes - September 2016
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th September 2016
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 7th November, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Eaton Bray Parish Council would like to congratulate Eaton Bray Cricket Club winning the 1st Division and 2nd team getting promotion to Division 5 of Four Counties Cricket League, by flying the Eaton Bray Cricket flag at the three corners for a week as a celebration of their success.
For more information, please see Eaton Bray Cricket Club win League Title.
Parish Council Minutes - July 2016
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th July 2016
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 3rd October, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Proposed Temporary Road Closure - B489 Icknield Way, Eaton Bray
I have a request for a Proposed Temporary Road Closure at the above location to enable Carriageway Lining works to be carried out in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
The alternative route for this closure is as in the details below and will be signed accordingly. The restrictions are to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. The Legal Order has been made to cover a twelve month period. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Network Co-ordinator
Road: B489 Icknield Way, Eaton Bray
Application from: Geoff Parrott Central Bedfordshire Council- 03003008049
Reason: Carriageway Lining Works
Length affected: From Springfield Road to Dagnall Road roundabout
Date: The closure is expected to take place from 0900-1530 on Tuesday 13th September 2016.
Alternative Route: Head north on Icknield Way/B489 towards Icknield Way/B489, exit onto Whipsnade Rd/B4541, exit onto B4540, Turn right onto Dagnall Rd/B4506, turn right to site and vice versa.
The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works requiring the Order have been completed.
Parish Council Minutes - June 2016
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th June 2016
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 5th September, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Proposed Temporary Road Closure - High Street, Moor End & The Orchards, Eaton Bray
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
(ST MARY'S VILLAGE CARNIVAL, THE ORCHARDS, HIGH STREET AND MOOR END, EATON BRAY)
(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2016
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Central Bedfordshire Council intend not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order the effect of which will be to prohibit any vehicle, except a vehicle being used for fire, police or ambulance purposes in an emergency or any vehicle engaged in the event, from proceeding along the lengths of The Orchards, High Street and Moor End, Eaton Bray which extends for their entire length.
This temporary closure is required to facilitate the holding of the St Mary's Village Carnival and shall apply to such extent as may from time to time be indicated by the appropriate traffic signs.
The event will take place on Saturday 2nd July 2016 between 11.30 am and 1.30pm
There is no alternative route.
The proposed Order will come into operation on 2nd July 2016 for a period of three day.
For further information please contact Eaton Bray Parish Council, tel. 01525 221464.
DATED 15 June 2016
Director of Community Services
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Chicksands
Shefford SG17 5TQ
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Eaton Bray Parish Council - Village Flag Pole Proposal
As part of an ongoing programme of efforts to enhance the look and feel of the village, EBPC is proposing to install a flag pole on the green by Moor End/Bower Lane. The intention would then be to fly combinations of the Union flag, National flag and the Bedfordshire flag as appropriate, and at times of national celebrations. We invite and would be grateful to hear views on this proposal from residents of Eaton Bray.
Please forward your comments to the Parish Clerk - email [email protected]
Neighbourhood Plan - Can You Help?
Read more about the Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan
Parish Council response to Planning Application CB/16/00717/OUT
Following the Parish Council becoming aware of the recent development application on land off Totternhoe Road, the Council unanimously agreed that Eaton Bray does not have any requirement for a development of this size and nature. Eaton Bray Parish Council have sent the following to Central Beds Council regarding Planning Application CB/16/00717/OUT - Land off Totternhoe Road, Eaton Bray, LU6 2BD. Outline planning for 145 new dwellings.
If residents of Eaton Bray (and surrounding villages) wish to comment on the proposed development they should write to the case officer, details below, providing your reasons. It is important that you send a physical letter or email as it is not enough to just make a comment on the CBC website.
Using the reference:
Planning application CB/16/00171/OUT, Land off Totternhoe Road, Eaton Bray, Dunstable Beds LU6 2BD
Write your letter to:
Peter Vosper, Planning Officer
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House, Monks Walk
Chicksands
Shefford
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Or email your comments to:
[email protected]
Neighbourhood Plan - Help Needed
Read more about the Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan
Proposed Temporary Road Closure - Stanbridge Road, Totternhoe
Road: Stanbridge Road, Totternhoe
Application from: A Plant Lux Traffic for BT – 0370 050 0792
Reason: To replace damaged telegraph pole
Length affected: From Knolls View west to C228
Date: The closure will take place on 18th January 2016 09:30 hours to 15:30 hours.
Alternative Route: Proceed south on Castle Hill Road. Turn right onto Eaton Bray Road, turn right onto C228 to the junction with Stanbridge Road and vice versa.
Your Neighbourhood Development Plan
We have completed 3 months in the development of our Neighbourhood Plan (NP) and are now in the "Evidence gathering and Consultation" phase.
Help Needed
We would like everybody in Eaton Bray to help decide the direction that our Neighbourhood Plan should take, please consider these 4 questions:-
- What do you like about Eaton Bray?
- What don't you like about Eaton Bray?
- What do we want in Eaton Bray or What do we need to improve?
- What do we want to preserve?
Please send your suggestions / comments regarding Planning Issues only to "The Clerk, Eaton Bray Parish Council, 20 Good Intent, Edlesborough, LU6 2RD.
Email: [email protected] - Website: www.ebpc.co.uk
The Steering Group will be reporting progress through the Focus Magazine so that residents can keep up to date. If you would like your voice to be heard, please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting. Meetings are generally planned for the last Monday of the month at 19.30 at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray; however due to the Christmas break the NP Steering Group will be held on Monday 11th January 2016.
Your Neighbourhood Development Plan
Since April 2012 communities, such as the villagers of Eaton Bray, have been able to lead future planning of their local area through Neighbourhood Development Plans if they receive a 50% yes vote in a public referendum.
Eaton Bray Parish Council set up a Steering Group of Eaton Bray residents to draw up and write a Neighbourhood Plan (NP). The Group has met twice to establish the way forward and as a result chosen three main areas to concentrate effort on with smaller focus groups, and those are as follows:
Community Facilities
Covering a diverse range of subjects from inside and outside recreational spaces to village events, and anything in fact that helps to maintain and grow a community spirit.
Environment
Includes; green spaces, green belt, and diversification of existing and new green space, ecology and sustainability.
Site analysis
Encompassing existing and planned housing and developments, monuments, businesses, shops, etc. Design and development of spaces will include the relationship of space and properties occupying it.
The NP is not going to be just a building and planning guideline strategy document, but will also encompass many other criteria that will serve to help to put some heart back into the community. It is not yet clear exactly how long this project will take but is likely to be around 12 months before the NP is put forward for approval by Central Bedfordshire Council and followed by a referendum so that all the residents of Eaton Bray can approve the Plan.
The Steering Group will be reporting progress through the Focus Magazine so that residents can keep up to date. If you would like your voice to be heard, please feel free to attend the next Steering Group meeting. Meetings are planned for the last Monday of the month (excluding Bank Holidays) at 19:30hrs at the Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray.
Andrew Selous MP - Village Surgery - 30 September 2015
Andrew Selous MP Village Surgery
Wednesday 30th September 2015 11.30am-12noon
The Coffee Tavern Eaton Bray
No appointment necessary
Central Bedfordshire Community Infrastructure Levy Draft Charging Schedule Publication Consultation
Central Bedfordshire Council is publishing the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Draft Charging Schedule from Monday 13 July 2015 for a period of six weeks until Monday 24 August and are inviting you to express your views by taking part in the consultation.
Have Your Say
The easiest way to have your say is online via our website at: www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/planning/strategic-planning/cil.aspx.
You can also email your response form to [email protected], or by post to Freepost RSJS GBBZ SRZT, CIL Consultation, Central Bedfordshire Council, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, SG17 5TQ.
The documents have been made available to view at the Council Offices in Chicksands and Dunstable (opening times from 8:30 to 17:00 Mon -Thurs and 8:30 - 16:00 on Friday) and the main libraries across Central Bedfordshire (opening times vary).
What is the Community Infrastructure Levy?
The Community Infrastructure Levy is a planning charge, introduced by the Planning Act 2008 as a tool for local authorities in England and Wales to help deliver infrastructure to support the development of their area. It largely replaces the use of section 106 agreements and came into force on 6 April 2010 through the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010. It is a tariff that is calculated per metre of net additional floorspace on new development although a number of exemptions apply. The Draft Charging Schedule sets out the proposed rates by area and use for Central Bedfordshire.
Publication stage
This is a formal stage of consultation and the comments made (or representations) will be considered by an independent Planning Inspector. We initially consulted on the Preliminary Draft Charging Schedule in January 2013 so this is an opportunity for people to comment on the changes that have been made to the proposed CIL charging rates as a result of the last consultation and as a result of refreshed viability evidence.
A number of supporting documents including the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Viability Study are being published alongside the CIL Draft Charging Schedule document.
If you have any queries about the Community Infrastructure Levy, please contact the Strategic Planning Team by phone on 0300 300 4353 or email [email protected]
Parish Council response to Planning Application CB/15/02260/SCN - Northall Road, Eaton Bray
Central Bedfordshire Council have recently received application CB/15/02260/SCN for "Mixed use development comprising residential of 50+ dwellings, community uses and open space" on land adjacent to Northall Road, Eaton Bray.
Eaton Bray Parish Council have responded with the attached letter:
The following map shows the proposed development, covering approximately 19.84 hectares:
Election Results 2015
Parliamentary Constituency: South West Bedfordshire
Andrew Selous won for the Conservative Party.
Turnout: 65%
Ward: Eaton Bray
Ken James won for the Conservative Party with 1,225 votes.
Ruth Archer (Independent) came in second with 943 votes.
Isaac Chikwakwanyi Sibiya (Labour Party) came in third with 242 votes.
Turnout: 72%
Parish Council: Eaton Bray
The seats were uncontested, and so the following were duly elected Parish Councillors for Eaton Bray:
Joan Conner, Mike Simkins, Phil Spicer, Mark Tomkins, Lorna Tribbick, Glenn Wigley, Richard Windmill
Police & Crime Commissioners Referendum
Voters were asked: Do you want the Beds PCC to increase the amount it charges by 15.8%?
The results were:
Yes: 42,682
No: 91,716
Turnout: 65.76%
See Statement from Olly Martins about this result.
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Application for Designation of a Neighbourhood Area
The Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012, Part 2, Section 5
Notice is hereby given that Central Bedfordshire Council has received an application from Eaton Bray Parish Council to designate the parish as a 'Neighbourhood Area'.
A successful designation will mean that the Parish Council can proceed to prepare a Neighbourhood Plan together with the community, if they wish to do so. If a plan is produced in the future, the Council will seek comments on its content at the appropriate time.
Details of the application and map showing the extent of the proposed designation area are available to view on the Council's website: Central Bedfordshire Neighbourhood Plans
If you have any objections to the extent of the area only, please send them by email to [email protected] or by post to:
Development Plan Process Team
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Shefford
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Comments should be received by Friday 12 June 2015
Would you like to have a say in the future of our village?
Eaton Bray Neighbourhood Plan
Eaton Bray Parish Council are considering the need to draw up a Neighbourhood Plan document to set out the Village's wishes in terms of infrastructure, facilities and future development.
The Government and Central Bedfordshire are encouraging parishes to set out Neighbourhood Plans that demonstrate how communities would like to improve the villages and their surroundings in the future. It will also help provide some protection to this village when it comes to unwanted over-development and support the need for infrastructure improvements.
What is a Neighbourhood Plan? Put simply, it is a document that describes the desired plans for a village over a 5-10 year period and contains the areas that village residents feel are important and specifies what the majority wants.
It covers topics such as housing and development, schooling and amenities, environmental protection, transport and highways, to name but a few.
The document is something that would require a great deal of consultation with everyone in the village, planning and work to bring it all together. The challenge, once the village has agreed its content, is then to have CBC approve it. Once approved, it means that it provides some protection against the things we don't want in the village and support towards getting the things we do.
It is worth noting that the Plan is not something that is a clandestine way to get property building through and over-develop the village or to try and pass unwanted schemes in the village without consultation. Quite the opposite.
We think the best approach is to first see if having a plan for the village is something that we, as a village, all want. There are a lot of positive reasons for having a Plan, most notably protection from Government schemes being imposed upon us without our consent, along with finding out what ideas residents have for the village.
What happens now? We would like to hear from everyone in the village to see if everyone thinks it's a good idea to have a Neighbourhood Plan. Once we have consulted the village, it will indicate whether this is something that we should then action, setting up a working group to manage the project and starting the next stage of actual consultation.
Should you feel that, like our other neighbouring villages, we too should have a Neighbourhood Plan, we'd like to hear from you. Equally, we'd also like to know why you think we should not have one.
If you would like to know more about what a Neighbourhood Plan is, you can find out more on the website set up for parishes and town councils to: What is Neighbourhood Planning?.
Please visit our website, email or write to us with your views.
Source: Eaton Bray Parish Council
Proposed Temporary Road Closure - Bower Lane, Eaton Bray (21-22 July 2015)
I have a request for a Temporary Road Closure at the above location to enable Patching works to be carried out in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
The alternative route for this closure is as in the details below and will be signed accordingly. The restrictions are to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. The Legal Order will be made to cover a twelve month period. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Network Co-ordinator
| Road: | Bower Lane, Eaton Bray |
| Application from: | Amey for CBC – Charlotte Dunham - 03003008049 |
| Reason: | Patching Works |
| Length affected: | From Moor End to Dunstable Rd |
| Date: | The closure is expected to take place for 2 days from Tuesday 21st July to Wednesday 22nd July 2015 from 0800-1800. |
| Alternative Route: | Head northwest on Harling Rd toward Dunstable Rd, Turn right onto Dunstable Rd, Continue onto Church Rd, Turn left onto Castle Hill Rd, Turn left onto Eaton Bray Rd, Continue onto Totternhoe Rd, Continue to site and vice versa. |
NB. The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works requiring the Order have been completed.
Proposed Temporary Road Closure - High Street, Moor End & The Orchards, Eaton Bray
I have a request for a Temporary Road Closure at the above location to enable the carnival procession to go ahead in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
The alternative route for this closure (Moor End & High Street) is as in the details below and will be signed accordingly. There is no alternative route for The Orchards.
The restrictions are to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. The Legal Order will be made to cover a 3 day period. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Network Co-ordinator
| Road: | High Street, Moor End & The Orchards, Eaton Bray |
| Application from: | Eaton Bray Parish Council – 01525 221464 |
| Reason: | Carnival Procession |
| Length affected: | For the full length of High Street, Moor End & The Orchards |
| Date: | The closure is expected to take place on Saturday 4th July 2015 between the hours of 1130-1330hrs. |
| Alternative Route | (High Street & Moor End, no route available for The Orchards): Continue along Dunstable Road leading to Church End, turn left onto Castle Hill Road proceeding onto Stanbridge Road turning left onto Totternhoe Road and continuing until the High Street and then visa versa. |
NB. The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works requiring the Order have been completed.
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council, Streetworks
Temporary Road Closure - C228, Eaton Bray
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
I have a request for a Temporary Road Closure at the above location to enable Patching and kerbing works to go ahead in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
The alternative route for this closure is as in the details below and will be signed accordingly. The restrictions are to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. The Legal Order will be made to cover a four month period. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Network Co-ordinator.
| Road: | C228, Eaton Bray |
| Application from: | Amey for CBC – Alan Trille - 03003008049 |
| Reason: | Patching and Kerbing Works |
| Length affected: | Junction of Stanbridge Road Totternhoe to junction Eaton Bray Road, Honeywick Lane, Toternhoe Road |
| Date: | The closure is expected to take place for 3 days from Wednesday 24th June to Friday 26th June 2015 from 0800-1800hrs |
| Alternative Route: | Head northeast on Eaton Bray Rd toward Castle Hill Rd, Turn left onto Castle Hill Rd, Castle Hill Rd turns slightly left and becomes Stanbridge Rd and continue to site and vice versa. |
NB. The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works requiring the Order have been completed.
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council, Streetworks
Notice of Election
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Central Bedfordshire
Election of Parish Councillors for
EATON BRAY
- An Election is to be held of Nine Parish Councillors for Eaton Bray.
- Forms of nomination for the Parish Election may be obtained from Clerk to Parish Council or Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ from the Acting Returning Officer who will, at the request of an elector for any electoral area prepare a nomination paper for signature.
- Nomination papers must be delivered to the Acting Returning Officer, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ on any day after the date of this notice but no later than 4 pm on Thursday, 9th April 2015.
- If any election is contested the poll will take place on Thursday, 7th May 2015.
- Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Tuesday, 21st April 2015.
- Applications to vote by proxy at this election must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Tuesday, 28th April 2015.
- Applications to vote by proxy at this election applied for on grounds of physical incapacity, where that physical incapacity occurred after 5pm on Tuesday, 28th April 2015, must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Thursday, 7th May 2015.
Richard Carr
Acting Returning Officer
Dated Monday 16 March 2015
Printed and published by Acting Returning Officer, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ
Central Beds decision on 150 new houses in Eaton Bray
The large planning development application for the 150 houses off Totternhoe Road/The Rye has been refused, to read thorough report/CBC response see Central Beds response to Planning Application CB/14/04055/OUT.
Parish Council response to Planning Application CB/14/04055/OUT
Eaton Bray Parish Council have sent the following to Central Beds Council regarding Planning Application CB/14/04055/OUT - land off Totternhoe Rd, Eaton Bray/outline planning 150 dwellings.
We urge that if residents of Eaton Bray (and surrounding villages) wish to object to the proposed development they write to the case officer, details below, providing your reasons for objection. It is important that you send a physical letter or email as it is not enough to just make a comment on the CBC website.
Write your letter of objection to:
Vicki Davies, Planning Officer
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House, Monks Walk
Chicksands
Shefford
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Using the reference: Planning application CB/14/04055/OUT, Land off Totternhoe Road, Eaton Bray, Dunstable Beds LU6 2BD
Email: [email protected]
Parish Council Minutes - October 2014
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th October 2014
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 1st December 2014, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Proposal to Introduce 7.5 Tonnes HGV Weight Restriction on Various local Roads
Please see note from Parish Council below.
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL PROPOSES TO INTRODUCE 7.5 TONNES
HEAVY GOODS VEHICLE WEIGHT RESTRICTION ON VARIOUS ROADS
IN TOTTERNHOE, DUNSTABLE AND EATON BRAY
Reason for proposal: The proposed Order is considered necessary on the grounds of promoting road safety and improving the environment of the area. The proposed restriction would prohibit HGVs over 7.5 tonnes from using roads in the zone identified below as through routes. The proposal is primarily intended to protect Totternhoe from extraneous lorry traffic.
Effect of the Order:
To introduce a 7.5 tonnes HGV Weight Restriction on roads in Totternhoe, Dunstable and Eaton Bray, as follows:-
The weight restriction zone covers Castle Hill Road, Dunstable Road, Church Road and other roads in Totternhoe. The restricted zone also extends into roads in Dunstable and Eaton Bray. The entry points to the weight restriction zone are at:-
- Totternhoe Road, Dunstable at its junction with B489 Tring Road
- Well Head Road, Totternhoe at its junction with B489 Icknield Way
- Doolittle Lane, Eaton Bray at its junction with Harling Road
- Dunstable Road, Eaton Bray at its junction with Bower Lane
- Eaton Bray Road, Totternhoe at its junction with Totternhoe Road and Honeywick Lane
- Castle Hill Road, Totternhoe immediately south of its junction with Knolls View
Download full (1.4MB) PDF version of drawing
Exemptions: The proposed Order will include exemptions to allow heavy goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes to enter the restricted zone for access and delivery requirements. There will also be exemptions for emergency vehicles and for certain other building and maintenance purposes.
Further Details may be examined during normal office hours at the address shown below, viewed online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/publicstatutorynotices or tel. 0845 3656116.
Comments should be sent in writing to the Transportation Manager, Central Bedfordshire Highways, Woodlands Annexe, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NU or e-mail [email protected] by 21 November 2014. Any objections must state the grounds on which they are made.
Order Title: If made will be "Central Bedfordshire Council (Various Roads in Totternhoe, Dunstable and Eaton Bray) (Weight Restriction) Order 201*"
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Chicksands
Shefford SG1917 5TQ
23 October 2014
Road Closure - A505 Leighton Buzzard bypass - Highway Works
Central Bedfordshire Council have instructed Amey to carry out detailed design and programming for maintenance works at the A505 Leighton Buzzard bypass between the A5 roundabout and the Totternhoe / Stanbridge turns.
The proposed dates are, from 06:00 Monday 22nd September until 06:00 Saturday 27th September. There will be a complete (24hr) closure during this period which will include the Totternhoe / Eaton Bray junction. The Stanbridge turn will remain open to Eastbound traffic.
The map below shows the extent of the scheme:
The dates provided are proposed dates and can be subject to change for a number of reasons. Advanced Warning signs will be erected at this location prior to work commencing.
Source: Amey
Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor
NOTICE OF VACANCY
IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR
PARISH OF EATON BRAY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that due to the resignation of Robert Coulter, a vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Parish Council.
If by 4 August 2014 (14 days excluding Dies Non, after the date of this notice) a request for an election to fill said vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at the address below by TEN electors for the said Parish, an election will be held to fill the said vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.
If an election is called, it will take place not later than 7 October 2014.
Dated 15 July 2014
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Returning Officer
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Sheffore
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Temporary Road Closure - 5 July 2014
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
(CARNIVAL PROCESSION, VARIOUS ROADS, EATON BRAY)
(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2014
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Central Bedfordshire Council intend not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order the effect of which will be to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along The Orchards, High Street and Moor End, Eaton Bray and their side roads while the procession is passing.
This temporary closure is required to facilitate the holding of the Village Carnival procession and shall apply to such extent as may from time to time be indicated by the appropriate traffic signs.
The procession is expected to take place on Saturday 5th July 2014 between 11.30am and 1.30pm
The alternative routes available for vehicles affected by the Order are:-
Continue along Dunstable Road to Church End, Totternhoe, turn left onto Castle Hill Road, turn left onto Stanbridge Road, turn left onto Totternhoe Road and continue onto High Street and vice versa.
The proposed Order will come into operation on 5th July 2014 for a period of one day.
DATED 20th June 2014
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Chicksands
Shefford SG1917 5TQ
Community Speed Watch
COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH
Speeding in our village is a problem
In an attempt to help reduce the speed through the village we are going to start a Speed Watch campaign supported by Bedfordshire Police. Some of you will have seen this done through Billington with great success and so we are looking for volunteers to assist Councillors and give just a few hours from time to time to the operation of the campaign. You will be given full training by Bedfordshire Police and will be instrumental in our goal to help reduce speed through our village and make it a safer place.
If you would like to be part of this please contact, Councillor Mark Tomkins.
Community Speed Watch coming to your area?
Are speeding motorists an issue in your neighbourhood? Do you want to help do something about it?
More volunteers are currently being sought for the Community Speed Watch scheme which already operates in Bedford and Central Bedfordshire and is now coming to Luton too.
Supported by the Bedfordshire and Luton Casualty Partnership, Community Speed Watch enables volunteers to work within their communities to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding and help control the problem locally.
People who register undertake training run by Bedfordshire Police covering the use of speed indicator devices and radar guns, conflict resolution and an option for basic first aid.
Equipment is delivered by local policing teams, and volunteers then run sessions noting the date, time, colour, make, model and registration number of any vehicle exceeding the speed limit.
Registered keepers of offending vehicles are written to by the police, informing them that they were detected exceeding the speed limit and giving the details.
Persistent speeders receive a second letter, and if there is a third occasion motorists can expect further action to be taken by police.
Schemes can be set up in any ward, village or parish governed by a 30mph speed limit and where a group of at least three trained volunteers exists.
Chief Inspector Neill Waring from Bedfordshire Police said: "Excessive speed on the roads is one of the most common issues raised by residents across Luton, Bedford and Central Bedfordshire, and has an impact not only on road safety but on the quality of life of those that endure it.
"Community Speed Watch seeks to promote safer driving in our local communities by educating rather than prosecuting individuals. Data collected is passed to Bedfordshire Police who may undertake further speed checks and result in drivers being prosecuted."
Volunteers from Community Speed Watch will be undertaking roadside checks during week commencing 19 May in Luton, Dunstable, Leighton Buzzard and Bedford.
Free driving courses for young drivers in May
Young drivers from across Central Bedfordshire and Luton are being encouraged to improve their driving knowledge and skills in May, as part of an initiative designed to reduce road casualties.
Places are now open for MORE 16 and MORE Drive courses on Sunday 18 May. The courses are free and the age range has now been extended to MORE Drive to include those up to 30 years old. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis on receipt of a completed application form, which can be requested by emailing [email protected].
The courses are funded by Central Bedfordshire Council and Luton Borough Council, with delivery organised by highways contractor Amey.
MORE 16 is designed to give 16-year-olds their first experience of driving. Advice is also given to parents about choosing a driving instructor and how to help their teens when practising. A high-speed passenger ride with a Millbrook pro-driver with competition history in motorsport such as rallying or racing is available to all parents that attend.
For the first time, MORE Drive is now available for 17 to 30-year-olds who have already passed their driving test, increasing the upper age limit from 24 years. MORE Drive offers the chance to drive on a skid pan and experience ABS braking systems, as well as practising emergency stops at speed to demonstrate varying stopping distances.
Workshops covering driving skills, maintenance, distractions and safety will be run by the local authorities, Bedfordshire Police and Three Shires Driving School.
Councillor Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities, Services at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: "The MORE 16 and MORE Drive courses are really popular and we have had great feedback from them. We're committed to reducing accidents where young people are killed or seriously injured and this education focus is working well.
"The courses are a great way for our young people to learn new skills and improve their driving ability. We are also delighted to be able to extend MORE Drive to drivers up to 30 years for the first time to increase their road safety awareness and driving abilities."
Sara Cannon, who attended the MORE 16 parents' workshop, said: "Many thanks for providing a well-run and thought-provoking course. Courses like this don't just happen and there will have been a lot of hard work behind the scenes to give all the participants (young and not so young) a really useful and memorable event."
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Body-Worn Video Cameras Go Live In Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire Police has now completed the roll out of 60 body worn video cameras for use by frontline officers across the county.
The cameras, which are worn on the outside of the uniform, are designed to capture the sound as well as an accurate and transparent visual account of interactions with the public by response officers where an evidential record may be required. The roll out began in the south of the county last week and this week saw response officers in the north supplied with cameras. Officers working on the ANPR Unit have also been issued with the technology.
Deployment of the 60 cameras follows a significant trial to assess the best technology and value for money as part of a wider approach to safeguarding the public and Bedfordshire Police's frontline.
Battery life of the cameras and the finite ability to store vast amounts of data means not every conversation with a member of the public will be recorded, for example; the devices are used when there is an evidence gathering opportunity and not for general innocent conversations with the public.
Bedfordshire Police policy is that where the use of force, arrests or detentions are anticipated that the recording of the event should start at the earliest opportunity. While the decision to record or not record any incident remains with the device user, they must be mindful that failing to record incidents that are evidential will require explanation in court.
Assistant Chief Constable Nigel Trippett said: "The benefit of body worn cameras is there for all to see and the policy we have trialled requires officers to make sure they capture as much of an incident as possible by recording at the earliest opportunity and if it is possible informing those present they are doing so. Clearly we must also be mindful of filming anyone close by who is not directly involved in the incident however and every attempt to minimise accidental intrusion must also be observed."
During the camera trial Bedfordshire Police consulted with the public and asked the question 'should all uniformed officers have to wear a body worn video camera whilst on duty'. The results showed 79.4 per cent of the 1,882 who answered said 'yes' and 20.6 per cent said 'no'. Of the 1,916 who answered the question 'Do you feel body worn cameras can help police in your area gather evidence' an overwhelming 97.3 said 'yes'.
"These figures, combined with many of the positive comments received during our survey, are good indications that we have strong public support in Bedfordshire," added Mr Trippett.
Adrian Foster, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said: "I welcome the news that Bedfordshire Police has invested in body worn cameras to gather evidence of criminal activity at scenes of violence and disorder."
"The benefits of the cameras are vast. They will discourage unruly behaviour during arrests, thereby protecting officers and the public, rule out issues of offender identification, and will provide indisputable evidence, which will assist the CPS when making charging decisions and prosecuting cases at court."
"Hopefully, the clarity of the evidence recorded will encourage offenders to plead guilty to offences at an earlier stage, reducing the need for lengthy court cases and ensuring speedier justice for victims and witnesses."
Bedfordshire Police has been trialling the cameras since June 2013.
Bedfordshire Police declare Rogue Trader Week Of Action A Success
Bedfordshire Police has been taking action to target rogue traders as part of a week-long national enforcement and awareness initiative.
Rogue traders are individuals or groups of people who cold-call householders, often targeting vulnerable residents, claiming to be a bona fide business and purporting to offer services, most commonly buildings maintenance and repair. The offenders charge excessive fees for the work, yet the work that is carried out is either substandard or not carried out at all.
All last week Bedfordshire officers were joined by trading standards officials and partner agencies inn a wide range of work to disrupt the activity of rogue trading and to make communities aware of this type of crime.
DCI Juliette Everett who coordinated the week long initiative said: "Tackling rogue traders this week has been a priority; unscrupulous rogues and distraction burglars can have a devastating impact on people's lives, and their activities are often linked to a vast network of crime. Partnership working is an integral part of tackling the scourge of rogue traders – work that is carried out relentlessly by numerous agencies throughout the year. Initiatives like Operation Rogue Trader provide an important opportunity to raise awareness and to empower consumers to say no to cold-callers."
"Remember, doorstep crime is not only restricted to driveway work, gardening, roofing and guttering scams, these criminals will also make a telephone call first to make appointments to sell other products or services, including overpriced mobility aids, beds, alarm systems, solar panels and more."
- Activity across Bedfordshire included PCSO's visiting local car boot sales with objective of targeting any potential rogue traders.
- Visits by Central Beds Community Safety Partnership and officers visiting scrap dealers and vehicles containing scrap metal.
- Bedford Borough Council Trading Standards targeting rogue builders and rogue car dealers.
- ANPR units were deployed in north and central Bedfordshire to target vehicles carrying our gardening work or canvassing for such work. While on patrol the ANPR officers arrested three men on suspicion of theft of a large amount of meat from Sainsbury's in Biggleswade that had just been stolen.
- Bedfordshire Police were in Biggleswade Market Square between 9am – 12 noon (April 10) providing information to businesses and residents to raise levels of awareness.
- A further 64 homes were visited in The Baulk, Biggleswade with leaflets delivered along with "No Cold Calling" window stickers.
- 75 residents in the villages of Northill and Ickwell, both of which had expressed concerns recently about the increase in thefts in the area were also visited.
Simple steps to prevent becoming a victim of this type of crime include:
- Don't sign on the spot – consider carefully whether you want the goods or services
- Always shop around for the best price
- Be wary of special offers or warnings about the state of your home
- Don't hand over a cash deposit
- Don't agree to a trader starting any work straight away
- Do talk to someone you trust for a second opinion
"Offenders can be both plausible and intimidating in order to convince their victims to pay prices which are often well above what should normally be charged and certainly does not reflect the work that is carried out, if it is carried out at all," DCI Everett added.
If you have any suspicions at all about cold-callers or traders operating in your community, please call your police force on 101.
Source: Ringmaster, Bedfordshire
Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor
NOTICE OF VACANCY
IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR
PARISH OF EATON BRAY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that due to the resignation of Brian Piggott, a vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Parish Council.
If by 6 May 2014 (14 days excluding Dies Non, after the date of this notice) a request for an election to fill said vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at the address below by TEN electors for the said Parish, an election will be held to fill the said vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.
If an election is called, it will take place not later than 9 July 2014.
Dated 11 April 2014
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Returning Officer
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Sheffore
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Notice of European Parliamentary Election - 22 May 2014
European Parliamentary Election 22 May 2014
Notice of Election
Eastern Electoral Region
Notice is given that an election is to be held in the Eastern Electoral Region for seven members of the European Parliament. If the election is contested the poll will be held on 22 May 2014 between 7am and 10pm.
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Standing for election |
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Nomination papers may be obtained from the address below or from www.chelmsford.gov.uk/euroelections. Delivery of all nomination papers and consents to nomination must be made in person to the address below and by the date shown.
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Address to which to deliver nomination papers
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Customer Services Centre, Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JE |
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Delivery allowed |
Between 10am and 4pm on any working day from 10 April 2014 to 24 April 2014 (inclusive)
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Deadline for the delivery of nomination papers
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4pm on 24 April 2014
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The deposit for each registered political party or individual candidate (£5,000) may be paid by cash or bankers draft (banks operating in the UK or Gibraltar only), by electronic payment into my account or by debit or credit card.
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Applications for registration, postal and proxy voting |
Applications to be included on the register of electors or for postal or proxy votes MUST reach the Electoral Registration Officer for the council area in which an elector resides (the list of addresses is available at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/euroelections) by the dates below.
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Application deadlines |
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Register to vote
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6 May 2014 |
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New postal vote (including proxies applying to vote by post)
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5pm on 7 May 2014 |
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To cancel or alter postal and proxy votes, or to change from postal to proxy voting
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5pm on 7 May 2014 |
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New proxy
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5pm on 14 May 2014 |
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Emergency proxy
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5pm on 22 May 2014 |
Dated: 9 April 2014
Steve Packham, Regional Returning Officer
Printed and published by
The Regional Returning Officer, Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford CM1 1JE
Proposed introduction of 50mph speed limit on B489 Tring Road and Icknield Way
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL PROPOSES TO INTRODUCE A 50MPH SPEED LIMIT
ON B489 TRING ROAD AND ICKNIELD WAY, DUNSTABLE, TOTTERNHOE AND EATON BRAY
Reason for proposal: The proposed Order is considered necessary for avoiding danger to persons or other traffic using the road and for preventing the likelihood of any such danger arising. The proposed 50mph speed limit is intended to cover that length of the B489 Tring Road and Icknield Way that is partially built-up and where there are local concerns about excessive vehicle speeds.
Effect of the Order:
To introduce a 50mph Speed Limit on the following length of road in Dunstable, Totternhoe and Eaton Bray:-
B489 Tring Road and Icknield Way, from a point approximately 203 metres south-west of its junction with The Avenue, Dunstable extending in a south-westerly direction to a point approximately 100 metres north-east of its junction with B4506 Dagnall Road, Eaton Bray.
Further Details may be examined during normal opening hours at Dunstable Library, Vernon Place, Dunstable LU5 4HA or online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/publicstatutorynotices. These details will be placed on deposit until 6 weeks after the Order is made or until it is decided not to continue with the proposal.
Objections should be sent in writing to Transportation Manager, Central Bedfordshire Highways, Woodlands Annex, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NU or e-mail [email protected] stating the grounds on which they are made by 4 April 2014.
Order Title If made will be "Central Bedfordshire Council (50mph Speed Limit) (B489 Tring Road and Icknield Way, Dunstable, Totternhoe and Eaton Bray) Order 201*"
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Shefford SG17 5TQ
13 March 2014
Proposed Raised Cusions - High Street, Eaton Bray
Public Notice
HIGHWAYS ACT 1980 – SECTION 90A-I
PROPOSED RAISED CUSHIONS – HIGH STREET, EATON BRAY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL, in exercise of its powers under Section 90 A-I of the Highways Act 1980 and all other enabling powers, proposes to construct raised cushions under Section 90 A-I of the Highways Act 1980 and all other enabling powers in High Street, Eaton Bray. The proposed measures are designed to reduce vehicle speeds and create a safer environment for all road users, including pedestrians travelling to and from Eaton Bray Academy.
Raised Cushions at a nominal height of 75mm, each cushion approximately 1.9 metres wide and 3 metres long, installed in sets of two cushions, are proposed to be sited at the following locations in Eaton Bray:-
- High Street, at a point approximately 35 metres west of its junction with School Lane.
- High Street, at a point approximately 58 metres east of its junction with School Lane.
Further Details a drawing may be examined during normal opening hours at Dunstable Library, Vernon Place, Dunstable LU5 4HA or online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/publicstatutorynotices.
Comments should be sent in writing to the Transportation Manager, Central Bedfordshire Highways, Woodlands Annexe, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NU or e-mail [email protected] by 14 March 2014.
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Shefford SG1917 5TQ
20 February 2014
See Also
Proposal to Introduce No Waiting At Any Time on High Street and School Lane, Eaton Bray
Proposal to Introduce No Waiting At Any Time on High Street and School Lane, Eaton Bray
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL PROPOSES TO INTRODUCE
NO WAITING AT ANY TIME ON HIGH STREET AND SCHOOL LANE, EATON BRAY
Reason for proposal: The proposed Order is considered necessary for avoiding danger to persons or other traffic using the road and for preserving or improving the amenities of the area through which the road runs. The restrictions are intended to keep the junction of High Street and School Lane clear of parked vehicles, particularly at the start and end of the school day. The proposals are part of a safer routes to school scheme, which is intended to improve road safety near to the school and encourage more pupils to walk to school.
Effect of the Order:
To introduce No Waiting at any time on the following lengths of road in Eaton Bray:-
- High Street, both sides, from a point in line with the boundary of nos.98 and 100 High Street extending in an easterly direction to a point in line with the boundary of no.100b and 102 High Street
- School Lane, both sides, from its junction with High Street to a point in line with the boundary of no.83 High Street and no.1 School Lane
Further Details may be examined during normal opening hours at Dunstable Library, Vernon Place, Dunstable LU5 4HA or online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/publicstatutorynotices. These details will be placed on deposit until 6 weeks after the Order is made or until it is decided not to continue with the proposal.
Objections: should be sent in writing to Transportation Manager, Central Bedfordshire Highways, Woodlands Annexe, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NU or e-mail [email protected] stating the grounds on which they are made by 14 March 2014.
Order Title: If made will be "Central Bedfordshire Council (Bedfordshire County Council (District of South Bedfordshire) (Civil Enforcement Area and Special Enforcement Area) (Waiting Restrictions and Street Parking Places) (Consolidation) Order 2008) (Variation No.*) Order 201*"
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Chicksands
Shefford SG1917 5TQ
20 February 2014
See Also
Proposed Raised Cusions - High Street, Eaton Bray
Free Business Advice Event
Stay Calm, Prepare Today, Save Tomorrow
FREE Business Continuity Advice
for Bedfordshire and Luton Businesses
Theft, fire, flood or data loss could drive a small company out of business but having a business continuity plan enables companies to recover quickly and get back on their feet. Without a plan half of local firms affected by an emergency go out of business within a year, but during Business Continuity Awareness Week 17-21 March 2014, companies wanting to create their own continuity plans can get FREE help from the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLRFF).
"Planning for emergencies helps businesses survive disasters, lower insurance premiums and secure future contracts," explains BLLRF's Chairman, Chief Superintendent Mike Colbourne. "During Business Continuity Awareness Week in March 2014, our FREE, 30 minute sessions will help you prepare for, and deal with, emergencies like theft, flooding or data loss by providing a template for survival in times of crisis. In the current economic crisis a business continuity plan also helps reduce insurance premiums and enables you to compete for contracts that require a contingency plan to be in place."
The FREE sessions are being held between 8am and 6pm at Bedford Corn Exchange on Tuesday 18 March and the Tokko Building, Gordon Street, Luton on Wednesday 19 March. Working with professional emergency planners you'll create your basic plan and leave with a data stick containing your plan and other useful information. The session last about 30 minutes and pre-booking is strongly advised. There are also stalls and exhibitions by major responders from across the county.
"Getting started on anything is always difficult," says Chief Superintendent Colbourne, "but our message is stay calm, prepare today and save your business, and money, tomorrow. Our experienced emergency planners will guide you through an outline plan, assessing your business risks and helping minimise the impact of emergencies by creating a contingency plan which you can take away with you."
Attending the events will be police business crime experts, fire safety officers, environment agency, council trading standards, environmental health and health and safety staff, local business organisations like the Chamber of Commerce and Federation of Small Businesses and other local emergency responders.
Please pre-book for the one-to-one business continuity planning sessions by contacting the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, [email protected], www.chamber-business.com/events/partner-events/ or by calling 01582 522448 (you do not need to be a member of the C of C or FSB to attend).
To get started why not check out the 10 minute checklist on the BLLRF website to assess your businesses' readiness to react to disaster and use the online resources to begin creating your own business continuity plan.
Why not join BLLRF's Facebook page and follow us on Twitter #BCAW201 and #BusWWYDI.
Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor
NOTICE OF VACANCY
IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR
PARISH OF EATON BRAY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that due to the resignation of Linda Doughty, a vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Parish Council.
If by 28 January 2014 (14 days excluding Dies Non, after the date of this notice) a request for an election to fill said vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at the address below by TEN electors for the said Parish, an election will be held to fill the said vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.
If an election is called, it will take place not later than 1 April 2014.
Dated 8 January 2014
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Returning Officer
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Sheffore
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
EB Lions - Club Statement regarding Astro pitch
As you know, the committee and team of EB Lions has worked tirelessly over the last 3 years to enlist Parish Council support in Eaton Bray to obtain planning and then build our own all-weather 3G training pitch. This was an ambitious project, costing over £275,000 but with the support and skill of the Club, the project was viable and achievable.
For EB Lions to continue to thrive we must have training facilities that are fit for purpose. We have tried training on the local grass pitches with portable floodlights - aside of the burdens of storage, charging, moving and erecting them, they provide illumination to a mud bath for most of the winter that is not a suitable surface and which also leaves the grass pitches unfit for matches. Most teams now have to hire facilities in distant places such as Barnfield, Dunstable, Houghton Regis, Leighton Buzzard and Tring. These pitches are expensive to hire and are much in demand - particularly the prime midweek evening slots. It also presents a logistical nightmare for the coach, often having to leave work early and families arranging transport to deliver and collect.
EB Lions need for this facility in the village seems to be widely acknowledged. At no time have we heard anything but praise and appreciation for what EB Lions is achieving in the locality. Even the fiercest critics of siting the all weather pitch at The Rye or Holmans Field have acknowledged this.
We have worked very hard, very professionally and persistently over a long period of time to bring the opportunity of a modern, fit-for-purpose all-weather pitch to Eaton Bray. We have the support of Beds FA and believe that with our fundraising we could have secured sufficient grant aid so that this investment in the village can be achieved AT NO COST TO THE PARISH COUNCIL. We were also committed to run the facility in a responsible and reasonable way to minimise any inconvenience to neighbours and to always be good neighbours and it was self-financing on an operational basis.
We are therefore very saddened to report that the Parish Council, in the face of a small but vocal group of 'Nimbies' have wavered on supporting the entire project and have effectively 'kicked the project into the long grass'. As you will be aware planning permission was granted for the facility at the Rye. All that remained was to agree the terms of the lease with the Parish Council. Threats of legal action by the objectors gave the PC cold feet and has now culminated in them voting at the December parish council meeting not to proceed any further with the Rye project.
At the same meeting a vote was taken on the motion to consider our proposal to locate the pitch on Holman's Field. An amended motion was passed, but only with the casting vote of the Chair. It was clear that a motion to merely consider, prolong the project suggesting that we do a great deal of further work to justify the already proven feasibility of the project struggled to pass, there is effectively no reasonable prospect of securing their support, which we need to both submit a planning application and also have an operating agreement which would work.
All of these decisions were taken in the face of the public consultation, which the PC insisted upon, producing a majority in favour of BOTH sites. So having made us jump through hoops they then ignore the inconvenient results. Therefore, despite being granted planning permission at the Rye and winning a majority in the public consultation neither of the proposed projects will now go ahead.
We feel that there is no realistic prospect of finding a new site and starting the whole process again. With a heavy heart we have therefore decided to close the project and reluctantly accepted that this now will not happen. A minority of the Parish Council have been hugely supportive of what we were proposing and to them, especially Chair Cllr Gordon Johns and Cllr. Brian Piggott we are appreciative, however with the change of composition of the Parish Council the majority have been against this and without their clear support it is now dead as a viable project.
We have been hugely successful with fund raising and have a considerable separate, ring fenced fund, made possible by the superb efforts of coaches, parents and teams. We will discuss and decide how to best use this, but will do so with common sense and for the good of the Club. Your ideas would also be welcome. One example would be to seek/buy a few acres of agricultural land and convert to grass pitches, which we also desperately need.
The practical result of this decision for the club may mean a reduction in the number of teams due to a lack of playing surfaces, which means less children in our villages playing sport and the loss of a fantastic facility for future generations.
We are so sorry to have to report this devastating news but have to accept that if the unelected Village representatives don't want such a facility then that is 'what the people want'. We remain committed to the Club and its future and with your support will overcome this big blow and continue to make this the most successful and well run Club in the County.
We understand that many of you may have questions relating to this matter and Paul, Tim or Richard will be happy to answer them. Huge thanks again to all of our fantastic mangers, players, parents and sponsors who have supported us. We wish you all a happy 2014.
E B Lions AFC Astro team
December 2013
Proposed Prohibition of Parking on Verges and Footways in Central Bedfordshire
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL PROPOSES TO INTRODUCE A
PROHIBITION OF WAITING AND LOADING ON VERGES AND FOOTWAYS
Reason for proposal: The proposed Order is considered necessary for avoiding danger to persons or other traffic using the road, preventing damage to the road and for facilitating the passage of traffic, including pedestrians. Parking on verges and footways is a hazard and an inconvenience to other road users and causes damage to the highway and underground services. The prohibition covers all of Central Bedfordshire, but is only enforceable when the necessary traffic signs have been installed. Residents and businesses would be consulted before any restrictions are made enforceable in their street.
Effect of the Order:
To introduce No Waiting and No Loading at any time on verges and footways in all roads in Central Bedfordshire, except for the M1 motorway, A1, A5 and A421 trunk roads.
Further Details of the proposal may be examined during normal opening hours at Ampthill, Arlesey, Barton, Biggleswade, Dunstable, Flitwick, Houghton Regis, Leighton Buzzard, Potton, Sandy, Shefford, Stotfold and Toddington Libraries or online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/publicstatutorynotices. These details will be placed on deposit until 6 weeks after the Order is made or until it is decided not to continue with the proposal.
Objections: should be sent in writing to the Transportation Manager, Bedfordshire Highways, Woodlands Annex, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NU or e-mail [email protected] stating the grounds on which they are made by 24 December 2013.
Order Title: If made will be "Central Bedfordshire Council (Prohibition of Waiting and Loading on Verges and Footways) Order 201*"
For full details about the proposals, please see the following PDF file:
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Chicksands
Shefford SG1917 5TQ
25 November 2013
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
Celebrate Christmas with
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Enjoy ...
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
On Friday 20th December 2013
From 7:30pm
To help us all get in the Christmas spirit, the Parish Council have
once again arranged for a small brass ensemble to play a few of
the most popular Christmas Carols around Eaton Bray on the
evening of the 20th December.
The evening commences from
7:30pm at Three Corners/Medley Close,
moving to Market Square/White Horse -
Finishing at around 9:00pm.
All adults & children are urged to come outside and
have a good old Christmas sing-a-long.
(song sheets will be available but please bring your own torch/lantern)
CELEBRATE IN STYLE
Have your say on changes to housing allocations policy in Central Bedfordshire
Central Bedfordshire Council is reviewing its Allocations Policy for social and affordable rented housing. Allocations Policy governs who can apply to join the housing register for a council or Housing Association home, what type and size of property they can apply for, and what priority applicants have in relation to each other.
The proposed changes stem from new freedoms in the Localism Act 2011, allowing councils to reflect local priorities in the way that they manage housing allocations.
The key aims of the scheme are to-:
- help applicants in housing need to find suitable housing
- provide housing applicants with a simpler, fairer and more transparent system
- encourage applicants who are out of work to seek employment
- make efficient and best use of the area's housing stock
- to encourage applicants to think longer term about their housing plans.
The proposed changes will affect existing and prospective applicants to the housing register.
Formal public consultation on these changes has begun, and will remain open until 31 January 2014. You can read all of the associated documents and give feedback online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations
Paper copies of the consultation documents are available at the Council's offices at Watling Housing in Dunstable; or alternatively can be obtained by contacting the Partnerships and Engagement Team, on 0300 300 4237.
We're ready for storm forecast - are you?
Emergency response partners on the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum met this afternoon to ensure they are ready to activate their plans ahead of anticipated severe weather on Sunday evening/Monday morning.
Currently the Met Office has an amber alert in place for the county predicting winds of 60-80mph, resulting in possible dangerous driving conditions, widespread tree and minor structural damage, risk of injury from flying debris and the potential for localised interruption to power supplies.
There is also a yellow flood warning in place advising that persistent heavy rain could cause surface water flooding.
Bedfordshire Police Chief Supt Mike Colbourne, Chair of BLLRF, said: "While there is no need for any undue alarm, the forecast is currently for winds of a strength that we have not seen in this part of the country for more than 20 years. With the trees still in leaf and the ground soft after recent rain, there is certainly the potential for some tree and structural damage, and disruption to travel particularly on Monday morning.
"There are number of straightforward steps that residents and businesses can take now to make sure they are as prepared as possible and I would urge them to do so.
"Partners will continue to monitor the latest forecasts over the weekend and, if the situation develops, can activate a multi-agency response including organisations such as the Environment Agency, Highways Agency and the utility companies.
Before a storm, secure loose objects such as ladders, garden furniture or anything else that could be blown into windows and other glazing and break them.
Close and securely fasten doors and windows, particularly those on the windward side of the house, and especially large doors such as those on garages.
Park vehicles in a garage, if available; otherwise keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences.
Close and secure loft trapdoors with bolts, particularly if roof pitch is less than 30 degrees.
If chimney stacks are tall and in poor condition, move beds away from areas directly below them.
During a storm, stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees.
Keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences — if these structures fail, they will collapse on this side. Do not go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress.
If possible, enter and leave your house through doors in the sheltered side, closing them behind you. Open internal doors only as needed, and close them behind you.
Do not drive unless your journey is really necessary. Delay your journey or find alternative routes if possible.
If your journey is essential, take particular care when driving on exposed routes such as bridges or high open roads. Slow down and be aware of side winds, particular care should be taken if you are towing or are a high-sided vehicle.
After a storm, be careful not to touch any electrical/telephone cables that have been blown down or are still hanging, and do not walk too close to walls, buildings and trees as they could have been weakened.
Make sure that any vulnerable neighbours or relatives are safe and help them make arrangements for any repairs.
Further advice for strong gales, heavy rain and flooding plus useful links including how to prepare an emergency home kit are available via the resilience forum's website www.whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk.
The website also features advice for businesses on preparing a business continuity plan, including a ten-minute health check.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Proposed Temporary Road Closure - Church Lane, Eaton Bray - 25th October 2013
I have a request for an Emergency Temporary Road Closure at the above location to enable urgent patching works to be carried out in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
There is no alternative route available. The restrictions are to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. The Notice will be made to cover a five day period. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Streetworks Co-ordinator
| Road: | Church Lane, Eaton Bray |
| Application from: | Jill Cross – Bedfordshire Highways – 03003008049 |
| Reason: | Urgent patching works |
| Length affected: | Full length |
| Date: | Friday 25th October between the hours of 0730 and 1800hrs. |
There is no alternative route available
NB. The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works requiring the Order have been completed.
Full of Life Festival - 10th October 2013
'You Lock Up, We Lock'em Up' - Winter Burglary Reduction Campaign
"You Lock Up, We Lock'em Up." That's the message from Bedfordshire Police as the seasonal burglary reduction blitz kicks off early this year to keep offenders on the back foot as the force fights crime and protects the public.
The proactive enforcement, intelligence led and targeted operation will commence on Monday, September 30, and will target known and potential offenders in areas most hit by burglary. Dedicated teams from Local Policing, Crime Reduction, Roads Policing Unit and ANPR and Tasking Units will target key hotspots around the county.
Last year Operation Peak was one of a number of initiatives in Luton which contributed towards the current 31 per cent drop in burglaries in the town when compared to last year.
This year's burglary reduction initiative will remain 'Firm, Fair and Friendly', while using all available resources as well as wide and varying tactics including saturation policing, to make Bedfordshire a hostile environment in which to commit burglaries.
Speaking about the operation, Local Policing Chief Inspector Rob McCaffray, said: "We've run a variation of this targeted and intelligence led operation for a number of years and once again, as the evenings start to draw in, we will be continuing our efforts to fight burglary."
"Burglary is an offence which leaves the victim extremely upset and with a feeling of violation, particularly at a time when people are preparing for Christmas and a time of happiness. I can assure residents across Bedfordshire that we will be doing all that we can to reduce burglary within our communities."
Known offenders will be the key target of the operation and suspects can expect an increase in daily interaction with police officers over the coming months. Known offenders and suspects found to be in particular hotspot areas can also expect an increase in the use of police stop-and-search powers as Bedfordshire Police sends out a clear message that burglary will not be tolerated.
Local Policing Teams will also be distributing prevention advice in areas identified as burglary hotspots as well as executing search warrants where appropriate in order to fight crime and protect the public.
"Officers and PCSOs from across the force and from within the collaborated partnership are working hard to reduce the number of burglaries occurring in the county. We will also increase the opportunities for arresting those responsible – using wide and varying tactics including saturation policing, 'stop and search' and others policing powers as necessary, making Bedfordshire a hostile environment in which to commit burglaries," added Chief Inspector McCaffray.
If you would like to speak to someone about crime reduction advice please contact your Local Policing Team via the force website at www.bedfordshire.police.uk, visit the force's Facebook page or telephone Bedfordshire Police on 101.
If you have information relating to those committing burglaries contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on the non-emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 2000111.
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Source: Ringmaster
Community Emergency Response Teams
The Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum are looking to set up a Community Emergency Response Team
Is your community prepared for emergencies?
To help local communities in severe weather or during a major incident, like a power cut or evacuation, the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF) are looking for volunteers to set up local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) and help minimise the consequences of potential disasters.
BLLRF brings together Police, Fire, Ambulance, local councils, health and government agencies, local businesses and resilience consultants to prepare and plan for disasters before they happen. CERTs will be the key contact for emergency planning and community preparations for major incidents, helping create a Community Emergency Plan for their area and assisting locally when an emergency occurs.
"This is not about creating or identifying a new community network, or a one-off response to an incident," says Mark Conway, Emergency Planning Officer for Central Bedfordshire Council, "but developing existing community networks and personal relationships. Think about what already exists around you, who you already talk to, and how you could work together before, during and after an incident. Existing local community networks and groups would be an excellent place to start building a group to be prepared for a local emergency." … "This could be anything from helping clear snow and ice from vulnerable people's drives during a severe winter to checking people are alright if the power is cut off for a long period or manning evacuation centres if there's a major fire. Local people can assist the emergency services by providing support and local knowledge during emergencies and helping their communities get back on their feet after a crisis."
Free emergency training is available every month in the evenings for anyone with an interest in emergency response.
If you are interested or able to help in any way, please contact us now by sending an email to [email protected] or calling 0300 300 4145.
To find out more visit www.bllrf.org.uk
All-weather Training Pitch in Eaton Bray
Following an initiative from EB Lions, our village childrens' Football Club, Eaton Bray Parish Council (EBPC) is considering a proposal to build a community all‐weather training pitch.
In 2011, a site in Bower Lane was deemed unsuitable by Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) planning officers. However the demand for such a facility was understood and supported.
In 2012, The Rye Recreation Ground was identified as an alternative site and following a public consultation, a successful planning application was made.
During and subsequent to the planning process there has been some local opposition to siting the facility at The Rye Recreation Ground. EB Lions have therefore suggested that Holman's Field, (the field behind Eaton Bray Academy, School Lane) also be considered.
Eaton Bray Parish Council is now undertaking a wider public consultation and invites parishioners of Eaton Bray to give their views on the proposal to build such a facility and the two possible sites under consideration;
- The Rye Recreation Ground, OR
- Holman's Field
Consultation & Public Meeting
Full details of the proposals can be seen in the following (PDF) document:
- Public Consultation: All-weather Training Pitch in Eaton Bray
(you may need Adobe Reader software to view this document)
Eaton Bray electors are invited to write/email to the Parish Clerk. Please include your name and address with postcode, to enable the council to collate comments into areas of response.
Local residents are also invited to attend a consultation meeting to be held at Eaton Bray Village Hall on Monday 21st October at 7.30pm. The meeting will be attended by representatives of Eaton Bray Parish Council and EB Lions AFC who will be happy to address any questions or concerns.
All responses MUST be received
by the Parish Clerk NO LATER than
Friday 25th October 2013.
No Cold Calling Zones (NCCZs) Request for Community Champions
Central Bedfordshire Council operates No Cold Calling Zones. These are designed to give a clear message to traders and other business callers that residents in the area do not wish to receive unsolicited calls.
Whilst it is not illegal for a trader to cold call, No Cold Calling Signs - which are visible throughout Central Bedfordshire - act as a deterrent to unwanted callers and help to cut doorstep crime.
There is currently a hot line which can be used to report traders and businesses who are cold calling and we would like to extend the service we provide by asking residents to act as "Community Champions" who would report instances of cold calling. They could also offer advice and support to other residents and particularly to those who are vulnerable.
We will provide training and information packs for volunteers and it is anticipated that the training will take place in September 2013. The scheme will be re-launched once the training has been completed.
If you would like to know more about becoming a NCCZ's Community Champion please contact: Jake Ramphal: Email [email protected] Tel: 0300 300 4780
To coincide with the re-launch of the scheme we are offering signage at discounted prices and door stickers for residents within the zone to display at their premises. If you would like to order signs or stickers please contact: [email protected] or call 0300 300 8136.
Emergency Road Closure - Moor End, Eaton Bray - 26 July 2013
I have a request for an Emergency Road Closure at the above location to enable emergency carriageway patching works to be carried out in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
The alternative route for this closure is as in the details below and will be signed accordingly. The restriction is to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. This Notice will cover a twenty one day period however the works will be limited to the date as shown below. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Streetworks Co-ordinator
| Road: | Moor End, Eaton Bray |
| Application from: | J Cross – Bedfordshire Highways – 03003008049 |
| Reason: | Emergency Carriageway Patching Works |
| Lengths affected: | From Jct High Street to Moor End Lane (county boundary) |
Date: The closure is expected to take place on Friday 26th July 2013 between the hours 0800hrs and 1800hrs. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
Alternative Route: Proceed along Moor End in a southerly direction into High Street Edlesborough, at the junction turn right onto the A4146 Leighton Road, turn right onto Eaton Bray Road continuing into Northall Road, at the junction turn right onto High Street Eaton Bray and continue to Moor End junction to reach site and vice versa.
NB. The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works have been completed.
Affordable Housing in Eaton Bray
Suggestions for land for development of affordable housing were put forward by the Grand Union Housing Group at the July 2013 Parish Council meeting.
A copy of the proposed locations is shown below.
The council would like to gauge residents opinions on these sites, however it is important to note that the Parish Council is not endorsing these locations they are just recommended sites put forwarded by Grand Union and no decision as yet has been made.
Please email/write to the Parish Clerk (contact details on the Eaton Bray Parish Council website) with your comments by end October 2013.
Closure of Harling Road - 5 August to 22 September 2013
Proposed Temporary Road Closure – Harling Road, Eaton Bray
I have a request for a Temporary Road Closure at the above location to enable water main replacement works to be carried out in safety. Details are listed in the schedule below and having assessed the application I am satisfied the request is justified.
The alternative route for this closure is as in the details below and will be signed accordingly. The restrictions are to be in operation only when the necessary signs are erected on site. The Legal Order will be made to cover an 18 month period. Access may be allowed from time to time according to local signing.
If you have any observations you wish to make I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as possible.
Gareth Hughes. Network Co-ordinator
| Road: | Harling Road, Eaton Bray |
| Application from: | Stephen Buzer – Enterprise – 0845 782 3333 |
| Reason: | Water Main Replacement |
| Length affected: | From junction Icknield Way to junction Moor End |
| Date: | 5th August – 22nd September 2013 for 24 hrs |
Alternative Route: Proceed along Bower Lane in a northerly direction onto High Street and Totternhoe Road, Eaton Bray. Proceed onto C228 and take the first right turn onto Stanbridge Road, continuing on Castle Hill Road and then Dunstable Road to the mini roundabout. Take third exit onto B489 Tring Road and continue to the roundabout to reach Harling Road and vice versa.
NB. The applicant will be responsible for taking down all Central Bedfordshire Council public notices immediately after the works requiring the Order have been completed.
Click to view larger version of this map
Parish Council Minutes - June 2013
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd June 2013
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 2nd September 2013, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Temporary Road Closure - 6 July 2013
Public Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
(ST MARY'S VILLAGE CARNIVAL PROCESSION, EATON BRAY)
(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2013
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Central Bedfordshire Council intend not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order the effect of which will be to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along the following lengths of road in Eaton Bray:-
- The Orchards for its full length
- Totternhoe Road, from The Rye to Northall Road
- Northall Road, at its junction with High Street
- High Street, from Northall Road to Moor End
- Moor End, from High Street to the county boundary
- Bower Lane, at its junction with Moor End
This temporary road closure is required to facilitate the holding of St Mary's Village Carnival Procession and shall apply to such extent as may from time to time be indicated by the appropriate traffic signs.
The event is expected to take place on Saturday 6th July 2013 between 11.30am and 1.30pm
The alternative routes available for vehicles affected by the Order are:-
Continue along Dunstable Road to Church End, Totternhoe, turn left onto Castle Hill Road, turn left onto Stanbridge Road, turn left onto Totternhoe Road and continue onto High Street and vice versa.
The proposed Order will come into operation on 6th July 2013 for a period of one day.
For further information please contact Eaton Bray Parish Council, tel. 01767 642412.
DATED 19th June 2013
Marcel Coiffait
Director of Community Services
Central Bedfordshire Council
Priory House
Chicksands
Shefford SG1917 5TQ
Gordon Johns takes over as Lymphoma Association chair of trustees
Gordon Johns took over as the sixth chairman of the Lymphoma Association trustees on Saturday (18-May-2013) at our AGM. He has been a trustee since 2011 and follows Richard Morris, who served as chairman for five years.
Gordon spent his entire career working in the financial services industry in the City of London – including 10 years as chief executive of an investment management firm – and now devotes much of his time to charity and community work. In addition to his role as our chairman, he is a non-executive director and vice-chairman of Bedford Hospital, a trustee and investment advisor to a charitable educational trust, chairman of Eaton Bray Parish Council, and secretary of Aylesbury Advanced Motorists, and recently stood down from the chairmanship of Bichon Frise Rescue, a national dog rescue organisation.
The Lymphoma Association is a registered charity working to ensure that everyone affected by lymphoma, the UK's fifth most common cancer, receives the best possible information and support, treatment and care.
Gordon said: 'I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to the uniquely important work that the Lymphoma Association does for lymphoma patients, their families and carers, and to build on the achievements of the last five years under Richard Morris's Chairmanship.'
Sally Penrose, the Lymphoma Association's chief executive, said: 'We are extremely grateful to Gordon for his commitment to our cause – supporting people affected by lymphoma. He has already been actively involved as a member of our strategy working group and investment committee and he brings invaluable leadership experience both from business and the voluntary sector to the role of chairman.'
-and-richard-morris(r).jpg "Gordon Johns (L) and Richard Morris (R)")
Gordon Johns (left), together with Richard Morris, the outgoing chairman
Gordon Johns is also the current Chairman of Eaton Bray Parish Council.
Source: Lymphoma association
Important changes to the Electoral Register
From October 2013 there will be changes to the way that you can protect your details on the electoral register should you not wish them to be sold to third parties.
There are two versions of the electoral register - the full register, which only certain organisations can access and the edited register, which anyone can buy. Your details will appear on the edited register unless you ask for them to be removed. Currently 117,000 people within Central Bedfordshire Council area have requested their name and address to be excluded from the edited version of the register.
In the past we carried over requests to be excluded from the edited register, but we will no longer be allowed to do this. If you want to have your details permanently excluded from the edited register you can write to us at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands SG17 5TQ or email us at [email protected] making a permanent opt-out request.
Please ensure that you state your full name and address and that you wish your details to be excluded from the edited register on a permanent basis or until further notice. A separate request is required for each member of the household if they also wish to be permanently omitted from the edited register.
New Parish Councillor Declared
Congratulations to Lorna Tribbick who was elected as Parish Councillor for Eaton Bray Parish Council on Thursday 4th April.
Voter turnout was just under 20%, but the result was clear with 270 votes for Lorna Tribbick and 132 votes for Teresa Stack-Murray.
Source: Eaton Bray Parish Council
Who will you vote for on 4th April?
Click for a larger version of this image
Notice of Poll
NOTICE OF POLL
Central Bedfordshire Council District Council
Election of a Parish Councillor for
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Notice is hereby given that:
- A poll for the election of a Parish Councillor for Eaton Bray Parish Council will be held on Thursday 4 April 2013, between the hours of 7:00 am and 10:00 pm.
- The number of Parish Councillors to be elected is one.
- The names, home addresses and descriptions of the Candidates remaining validly nominated for election and the names of all persons signing the Candidates nomination paper are as follows:
Name of Candidate
Home Address
Name of Proposer (+), Seconder (++)
and AssentorsSTACK-MURRAY
Teresa Catherine
Eaton Bray,
Dunstable,
Beds, LU6 2Morgans KerryL +
Langford Lynda A ++
TRIBBICK
Lorna Joyce
Eaton Bray,
Dunstable,
Beds, LU6 2Herbert Kaye V +
Gadd Catherine M ++
- The situation of Polling Stations and the description of persons entitled to vote thereat are as follows:
Situation of Polling Station
Station Number
Ranges of electoral register numbers of persons entitled to vote thereat
Eaton Bray Village Hall, 9 Church Lane, Eaton Bray, Dunstable
EB-0
EB2-1 to EB2-2144
Notice of Election
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Central Bedfordshire
Election of a Parish Councillor for
EATON BRAY
- An Election is to be held of One Parish Councillor for Eaton Bray.
- Forms of nomination for the Parish Election may be obtained from Clerk to Parish Council or Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ from the Returning Officer who will, at the request of an elector for any electoral area prepare a nomination paper for signature.
- Nomination papers must be delivered to the Returning Officer, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ on any day after the date of this notice but no later than NOON on Friday, 5th April 2013.
- If any election is contested the poll will take place on Thursday, 2nd May 2013.
- Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Wednesday, 15th April 2013.
- Applications to vote by proxy at this election must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Wednesday, 24th April 2013.
- Applications to vote by proxy at this election applied for on grounds of physical incapacity, where that physical incapacity occurred after 5 pm on Monday, 25th March 2013, must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5TQ by 5 pm on Thursday, 2nd May 2013.
Source: Brian Dunleavy, Democratic Services Manager, Central Bedfordshire Council
Statement of Persons Nominated
STATEMENT OF PERSONS NOMINATED
Central Bedfordshire Council District Council
Election of a Parish Councillor
The following is a statement of the persons nominated for election as a Parish Councillor for
Eaton Bray Parish Council Ward
|
Name of Candidate |
Home Address |
Name of Proposer (*), Seconder (**) |
Reason why no longer nominated* |
|
|
STACK-MURRAY Teresa Catherine |
Eaton Bray, |
Morgans KerryL * |
|
|
|
TRIBBICK Lorna Joyce |
Eaton Bray, |
Herbert Kaye V * |
|
|
The persons above, where no entry is made in the last column, have been and stand validly nominated.
Dated Friday 8 March 2013
Richard Carr
Returning Officer
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Sheffore
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor
PARISH OF EATON BRAY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that due to the resignation of Mark Tomkins, a vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Parish Council.
If by 25 March 2013 (14 days after the date of this notice) a request for an election to fill said vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at the address below by TEN electors for the said Parish, an election will be held to fill the said vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.
If an election is called, it will take place not later than 31 May 2013.
Dated 5 March 2013
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Returning Officer
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Sheffore
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Meeting with Inspector Jim Hitch, Bedfordshire Police
Totternhoe Parish Council is holding their meeting on Tuesday 19th March next and in attendance at this meeting will be Inspector Jim Hitch. He was invited to attend because the Parish Council wishes to raise policing issues within the area.
If you are interested in attending this meeting; it will commence at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 19 March 2013, at Totternhoe Memorial Hall, Castle Hill Road, Totternhoe.
If you have a question that you would like to raised with Bedfordshire Police, then please come to the meeting.
Heidi R Head
Parish Clerk/RFO, Eaton Bray Parish Council
For and on behalf of Marilyn Burton, Totternhoe Parish Clerk
Bikeability Project 2013
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Bin Collections - 21 January 2013
Update 24th January 13:00 Waste collections are going ahead as scheduled today and where possible trying to clear any missed collections from earlier in the week.
Update 23rd January 13:00 Waste collections are going ahead as scheduled today and where possible trying to clear any missed collections from Monday and Tuesday.
Update 22nd January 12:30 Waste collections are going ahead as scheduled and where possible trying to clear any missed collections from yesterday.
However many side roads across the district are still inaccessible for the waste collection vehicles and we don't send the crews out into areas where there is a risk to pedestrians, property or vehicles. We want to ensure all our collection crews are safe and will not encourage them to collect when it's not safe for them to do so.
Update 21st January 09.00: Due to the weather conditions there are no waste collections taking place today, but the Household Waste Recycling Centres remain open for the time being.
On Friday 18th, Waste collections were suspended across all of the South region of Central Bedfordshire.
If it is not possible to collect residents' waste on Monday (21st January 2013) due to the icy and snowy conditions, they will try to catch up on missed collections as soon as possible, but this is dependant on the accessibility of individual roads and routes. This may change on a daily or even hourly basis. As collections are made from over 110,000 households and accessibility is assessed as each street is approached it is not possible to provide individualised messages about when collections will be made from specific streets.
Please put your bins out as normal, and if your bin or bag is not collected on Monday 21st, please leave your missed bins in an accessible location for collection and they will be collected as soon as your street is accessible and it is safe to do so.
FAQ's provided by Central Bedfordshire Council
- What should I do if you don't collect my waste on the normal day because of the weather?
Please leave your bin or bags in their normal location for collection and we will collect it/them as soon as it is accessible and safe to do so. If this is not possible (due to space, cluttering the roads etc.) bring it in overnight. - Can you tell me which day my bin will be collected after you've missed my normal collection day?
We try to catch up on missed collections as soon as possible, but this is dependant on the accessibility of individual roads and routes. This may change on a daily basis during the adverse weather period. As we collect from over 110,000 households we can't guarantee everyone will receive an individualised message about their specific street's waste collections. We will update our website and social media if collections are interrupted. - I'm expected to drive to work when there's snow and ice. Why can't your crews collect my bin?
The average car weighs between 1 and 2 tonnes whereas our refuse collection vehicles (RCVs) weigh over 25 tonnes. They require more control, especially on small roads with parked cars on either side. We do not send the crews out when there is a risk of danger to pedestrians or damaging our residents' property or vehicles. We want to ensure that our collection crews are safe and will not encourage them to collect waste when it is not safe for them to do so. - Why can't the RCVs (Refuse Collection Vehicles) be fitted with snow tyres or chains?
The time taken to fit and remove snow tyres or chains would be significant because of the varying conditions on the roads during adverse weather. Some local authorities were still unable to collect waste even when their vehicles were fitted with snow tyres, so there would be limited benefit to our vehicles having snow tyres. - Once the weather conditions have improved, can you catch up on bin collections within the week?
Whilst we endeavour to catch up on missed collections as quickly as we can, we have a limited workforce and number of vehicles. We operate at maximum capacity, using all vehicles available to collect the missed collection, and will collect on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays if needed. If we can't catch up within 2 days, we will accept extra waste on the next collection for that bin. We will prioritise collection of clinical and weekly collection across the district. In the north we will prioritise collection of food waste followed by recycling, and in the south we will prioritise residual followed by recycling. - Some councils didn't collect bins for 6 weeks last year. Won't I have lots of maggots in my bin if that happens again?
If we miss a collection due to adverse weather conditions, it is likely that waste high in water content (such as food) will be frozen in the food waste or residual bin and will not harbour maggot larvae. You can double wrap any food in your bin if you are concerned. Don't forget you can put all your uncooked fruit and vegetables in your compost bin. - I'm not getting a service I've paid for. Can I have a refund on my council tax?
On average your bin collection costs around £1 per collection per household, which is a small percentage of your council tax. You will have your waste collected, but there may be a delay.
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Notice of Vacancy in Office of Councillor
PARISH OF EATON BRAY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that due to the resignation of Carol Willis, a vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Parish Council.
If by 5 February 2013 (14 days after the date of this notice) a request for an election to fill said vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at the address below by TEN electors for the said Parish, an election will be held to fill the said vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.
If an election is called, it will take place not later than 11 April 2013.
Dated 16 January 2013
Brian Dunleavy
Deputy Returning Officer
Priory House
Monks Walk
Chicksands
Sheffore
Bedfordshire
SG17 5TQ
Parish Council Minutes - January 2013
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 7th January 2013
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 4th February 2013, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Council Tax Support Scheme for Central Bedfordshire
Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) are required to introduce a local Council Tax Support Scheme from April 2013 as part of the Government's reform of welfare benefits.
A new scheme to replace Council Tax Benefits in Central Bedfordshire has been recommended by the Executive to the full Council for approval on 24th January 2013.
While wanting to protect those with little or no earnings capacity, CBC have had to reduce the overall cost of the Council Tax Support scheme by £1.7 million to reflect reduced government funding. The proposed Council Tax Support scheme has the following key principles in mind:
- The scheme should be affordable
- A fair contribution – those who can pay Council Tax, should pay
- The scheme should incentivise work
- Protecting the most vulnerable
CBC's final scheme reflects feedback from public consultation which took place from August to November last year. Responses, including 1,689 questionnaires as well as emails and letters and a telephone survey of 500 households, showed that the majority of respondents supported the Council's proposed scheme.
Under the new scheme, people with capacity to earn will be required to pay at least 25 per cent of their Council tax total bill, even if they pay nothing now.
However, the new scheme ensures that pensioners will have the same level of protection as they do now. There will also be protections for other groups of vulnerable customers such as carers, lone parents with children under five, some disabled people and war widows.
The new scheme also includes added work incentives for low income families, so there will be an increased advantage in earning an income without jeopardizing Council Tax support.
Owners of empty and second homes will no longer receive a Council Tax discount or exemption under the new scheme. In keeping with the Council's commitment to bringing long-term empty homes back into use, there is a proposal to charge home owners Council Tax at a premium rate of 150 per cent on houses left empty for over two years.
In response to consultation feedback, the Executive has agreed to establish a Hardship Fund to make discretionary payments in exceptional circumstances for those really struggling to pay. Premiums and Personal Allowances used to calculate entitlement to Council Tax Support will be increased at the rate of inflation from 2014/15.
CBC believe that they have worked hard to develop a Council Tax Support scheme that is designed to be affordable and fair and the positive response from the consultation shows that the majority of respondents agreed.
You can read the full scheme online.
The scheme will now go to full Council on 24 January for final approval. The changes will take place from 1 April.
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Parish Council Minutes - December 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd December 2012
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 7th January 2013, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Approval for new football pitch
Eaton Bray Lions youth football club has been allowed to fence off part of the village green for an all-weather floodlit soccer pitch.
The club, which has nearly 300 players, will be moving to The Rye following approval by Central Beds Council's development management committee.
The approval is subject to an agreement that demands that the facility is made available for community use and that formal organised events on the site be controlled by the parish council while the pitch is in use to limit parking problems.
Eaton Bray Academy Christmas Fayre
The fayre was at Eaton Bray Academy on 24th November between 12.30-2.30. The Salvation Army attended 12.30-1.30, with Cllr. Coulter and Cllr. Piggot there as part of the band along with other EB Salvation Army members.
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
Celebrate Christmas with
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Enjoy ...
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
On Friday 21st December 2012
From 7:30pm
To help us all get in the Christmas spirit, the Parish Council have
once again arranged for a small brass ensemble to play a few of
the most popular Christmas Carols around Eaton Bray on the
evening of the 21st December.
The evening commences from
7:30pm at Three Corners/Medley Close,
moving to Market Square/White Horse -
Finishing at around 9:30pm.
All adults & children are urged to come outside and
have a good old Christmas sing-a-long.
(song sheets will be available but please bring your own torch/lantern)
CELEBRATE IN STYLE
Parish Council Minutes - November 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th November 2012
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 3rd December 2012, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Eaton Bray Village Sign Unveiling - 10th November 2012, 2pm
The Eaton Bray Village Sign will be unveiled
by Andrew Selous M.P.
on Saturday 10th November 2012
at 2pm on the Market Place
Anyone and everyone welcome
Many thanks to our major Sponsors:
Two anonymous donors
Hawkins Transport
St. Mary's Church
Eaton Bray Parish Council
C.B.C. past chairman – Peter Hollick
and thanks to all those who have generously
supported the fundraising events.
Parish Council Minutes - October 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st October 2012
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 5th November 2012, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Loft insulation scammers in Eaton Bray
We have had a few reports over the last 24 hours that there are loft insulation scammers working through the village. They have visited several people in the village with no ID or knowledge of the company they work for making cold calls asking to check people's loft for insulation.
Fortunately, these people have been vigilant, but residents should be aware, especially pensioners and their families, to be on their guard and not to buy anything based on a cold-call.
If you think you have been a victim of this or a similar scam and would like advice on your rights please call Consumer Direct on 0808 156 2259, or you can call local police on 101.
Village Sign
The Village Sign is being designed to commemorate the Queens Diamond Jubilee 2012. It is a shield based on the Bray family's Coat of Arms and depicts scenes from Eaton Bray past.
More details about the design can be found on page 12 in the August/September 2012 Focus, and also here: The Eaton Bray Village Sign.
It is proposed to place the sign on the green outside the front of the White Horse Public House.
Area depicted by a red cross on the plan below.
Parish Council Minutes - September 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd September 2012
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 1st October 2012, from 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Back to School 'Stay Safe' Advice
Students are being reminded to 'Stay Safe' on their journeys to and from school now the mornings are getting darker as the new term gets underway.
Plenty of tips and advice on personal safety have been handed out by local police teams at events aimed at young people during the summer holidays and this work continues throughout the new academic year as part of Bedfordshire Police's continued work with schools and educational establishments.
Richard Denton, Children and Young People Development Officer and School Coordinator for Bedfordshire Police said: "For the vast majority of pupils the journey to and from school is safe and uneventful, however, some young people tell us they have concerns about personal safety, who we continue to help."
Whether walking, cycling or taking public transport to get to school, youngsters are getting the best start they can by following our simple advice. We actively encourage parents and guardians to discuss personal safety with their children and any other concerns they may have. This will improve their confidence and help ensure a safe, enjoyable start to the school year for everyone."
Personal Safety advice includes:
- If possible walk with a friend or group of friends.
- Stay alert - Keep an eye on everything that is happening around you.
- Avoid wearing earphones or chatting on your mobile phone, as this will distract you from your surroundings and you may not see or hear trouble approaching. The sooner you are aware of potential danger, the easier it is to avoid it.
- Keep both hands free and don't weigh your-self down with lots of heavy bags - you need to be able to move easily.
- Trust your instincts – If you have a 'funny feeling' about someone or something, don't ignore it, act on it straight away.
- Take the route you know best and stick to busy, well-lit streets.
- Walk in the middle of the pavement, facing oncoming traffic. This will avoid any cars driving up alongside you as you walk.
- Think about your route home. Where would be a safe place to go if something went wrong? Safe places might be busy places like shops or garages, friends' houses or a police station.
- Have your keys ready so you can get into your home quickly.
- If using public transport always wait for a bus or train in a well-lit place and near other people if possible.
- Try to sit near the driver or guard and make sure you can see as much of the bus deck or carriage as possible.
- Have your travel pass/correct change ready, so that your purse or wallet stays out of sight.
- Always give away your bag, purse or wallet rather than fighting to keep it. Your things can be replaced – you can't.
- Your voice can be one of your best forms of defence. Don't be embarrassed to make as much noise as possible to attract attention.
- If you are on a bus or train you can press the alarm. Train platforms have telephones situated at the Help Points – these will connect you immediately to the British Transport Police or station staff.
- You could also phone 999. The operator will ask for name, address, emergency you require – give the information as clearly as you can and ask for the police.
Make sure your phone and other valuables are security marked and registered on http://www.immobilise.com/ you may also wish to consider downloading a tracking application for phones and computers. These applications can be traced should your phone be stolen and may help the police track down offenders so your property can be returned.
Water Board Advice - Door Step Security
The next time someone knocks on your door and says they are from Anglian Water, we'd like you to take just a little of your time to double-check their identity before you let them in.
Bogus callers may claim to be from Anglian Water or even from 'the water board' and they might look quite convincing too, but you can find out for sure with one quick free phonecall.
Please take their card and close the door while you call us, any time of day or night, on 0800 145 145.
You will be given a description of the person at your door and a unique number. If the caller can not give you the number then they are not a genuine Anglia Water Empoyee.
Close the door and call the Police immediately.
For further details please visit:
http://www.anglianwater.co.uk/household/special-assistance/bogus-callers/
The Rye Recreation Ground - Planning Application submitted
Following the consultation from earlier this year regarding the addition of an all-weather pitch on The Rye Recreation Ground, a planning application has now been submitted to Central Bedfordshire Council.
Please see Planning Application CB/12/01812/FULL – The Rye Recreation Ground for full details.
More & More 16 Driver Courses
Young drivers from across Central Bedfordshire will have the opportunity to take courses to improve their driving knowledge and skills as part of an initiative designed to reduce road casualties.
Taking place in May, the MORE 16 and MORE Drive courses offer real-life experience to help young drivers stay safer on the road and are funded by Central Bedfordshire Council in partnership with their Highways Service provider Amey.
Three workshops, covering driving skills, maintenance and safety, will be run by vehicle inspectors and collision investigators from Bedfordshire Police, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, Three Shires Driving School and the automotive testing and development track facilities at Millbrook in Bedfordshire.
The MORE 16 programme is aimed at 16 year-olds and their parents and gives young people their first taste of driving as well as giving guidance to parents on choosing a driving instructor and how to help their teens when practising. Parents attending even receive a high-speed passenger ride around a track with a Millbrook pro-driver with competition history in motorsport such as rallying or racing.
MORE Drive offers 17 to 24 year-olds, who have already passed their driving test, the chance to drive on a skid pan and experience ABS braking systems, as well as practising emergency stops at speed to demonstrate the distance it takes to stop at varying speeds.
Twenty-year-old Dani Page, who attended the MORE Drive course last year, said: "It was a great way to learn about real dangers on the road and how to deal with these situations when faced by them. I now have a greater knowledge of a wide range of hazards, how to control a car in a skid and in emergencies to what to do in the event of an accident.
"This knowledge was gained from hands on experience with professional drivers and demonstrations from Police collision investigators and the Fire and Rescue Service. It has changed the way I view things and given me an insight in how easily an incident can occur and what I could do to avoid any situation that I may encounter."
Dani was one of more than 170 young people from across Central Bedfordshire who took part in the MORE 16 and MORE Drive courses during the past year.
Councillor Budge Wells, Deputy Executive Member for Sustainable Communities Services, said: "In Central Bedfordshire between 2009 and 2011, 32% of drivers and 43% of passengers killed or seriously injured were aged between 17 and 24. Young drivers are therefore one of our key priorities, and it would be wonderful if as many of our young people as possible could attend."
"I am delighted that demand for the courses last year was so high. The MORE programmes are a great way for our young people to learn new skills and improve their driving ability. We will be running the courses again on the 13 May, with 72 places available."
The courses are free and are allocated on a first come, first served basis. For more information on either the MORE 16 or MORE Drive programmes, or to attend the events in May, email [email protected].
For more details see links to leaflets below
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Notice of visit by Andrew Selous MP
To All Residents of Eaton Bray Parish
NOTICE OF VISIT BY ANDREW SELOUS MP
30 MAY 2012, 11:30AM-12NOON
AT THE COFFEE TAVERN (1st Floor), EATON BRAY
Andrew Selous MP looks forward to meeting as many constituents as possible
Digital TV Switchover Helpscheme - help is at hand for the over 75's and for those with disability
By 18th April 2012 you will need to have converted your TV to digital, or, if it already is digital, you will need to retune it* - in order to continue receiving a television service.
(* Note - Cable and Sky customers are not affected by the switchover)
The BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme can convert one TV to digital for eligible viewers.
You are eligible for the Help Scheme if you are:
- aged 75 or over, or
- live in a care home (for six months or more), or
- receive (or could get) Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or
- Attendance or Constant Attendance Allowance, or Mobility Supplement, or
- registered blind or partially sighted
If you are eligible then the Help Scheme will write to you directly. All you need to do is respond to the letter by sending back a completed reply form or telephone for free on 0800 40 85 900. If you receive a letter, please respond even if you don't need any help.
The scheme can provide and install easy to use equipment to switch one TV. It includes an approved installer, aerial upgrade if needed and a 12 month aftercare service, with free helpline. Most people will be asked to pay £40 towards the service but it can be free for those who receive certain income -related benefits.
Do you know someone who needs a helping hand switching to digital TV? Please talk to them and make sure they get the help they are entitled to by telling them about the Switchover Help Scheme.
For further information on the Switchover Help Scheme visit:
helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900.
Textphone users can call 0800 40 85 936.
New Equipment For Armed Response Vehicles
A simple but effective idea should save time and money when it's rolled out across the collaborated Armed Policing Unit in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire.
As well as two or three firearms officers, each Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) currently has to carry a mobile armoury in the cabin which houses the firearms when not in use; and a vast array of equipment in the boot of the car.
Using his experience as a firearms officer and position as the unit's Head of Collaborative Fleet,
Sgt Matt Stein of the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Firearms Support Unit has worked with Thames Valley Police, Volvo and an engineering company, Safeguard, to design and produce a new purpose built load carrier for the ARV's.
The load carrier system will have modular storage for all the equipment firearms officers carry and an integral safe for the weapons - all stowed in the boot.
As well as Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, Thames Valley Police and Cambridgeshire Constabulary will also use the new carriers.
Not only is the new design easier to use, it is Volvo approved and fully compliant with health and safety by having the mobile armoury more securely stored in the boot. The modular design can be dismantled and re-built into any vehicles likely to be used by the Armed Policing Unit – saving each of the four participating forces £30,000 over the next ten years.
The load carrier system will start appearing very soon as it gets built into the high performance diesel Volvo V70 D5's, which will be gradually coming on line to serve as ARV's across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Thames Valley. These forces are part of the Chiltern Transport Consortium who also assisted in the design process.
Although Cambridgeshire are currently using Volvos, the other forces have a variety of petrol vehicles in use as ARVs and the change to diesel is coming to Beds, Herts and TVP to cut both fuel costs and carbon footprint.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - April 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd April 2012
The Annual Parish Meeting and the Annual Meeting of Eaton Bray Parish Council will be held on Monday 2nd April 2012, from 7.00pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Parish Council Minutes - March 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th March 2012
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 2nd April 2012, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Warm Homes, Healthy People
Cold homes, damp homes
Living in cold, damp homes is an unfortunate reality for some people in Central Bedfordshire. Rising energy costs have made it difficult for many households to heat their homes properly.
This can often mean that there are risks to health, particularly for older people, families with children and people with disabilities or serious health conditions.
Warm Homes Healthy People scheme
The Government has made available extra funding to help tackle the problem, of Fuel Poverty. The Central Bedfordshire Warm Homes Healthy People scheme aims to offer help and support for vulnerable people living in cold and damp homes.
If you are a homeowner, or a tenant in a privately rented home and your home is cold, damp or has an old inefficient heating system, you could be eligible for a range of help.
The scheme can offer advice and financial assistance to improve your home insulation and heating.
You do not have to be in receipt of benefits to receive help from the Warm Homes Healthy People scheme.
How the scheme can help you
The Warm Homes Healthy People scheme can:
- Help to find out how efficient your home is
- Give you ideas on how to keep your home warm
- Help to install measures for keeping your home warm
- Give advice on other support or benefits you may be entitled to
- Give advice on keeping warm and healthy.
More Information
- Phone 0300 300 8302. Please mention the Warm Homes scheme when you call.
- See the Warm Homes, Health People leaflet.
Police Deliver on Promise to Drive Down Burglary
Police in Bedfordshire have honoured their pledge to tackle the crimes that matter most to the public, latest performance figures show.
Last year, Bedfordshire Police Authority ran a number of consultation exercises to gather feedback about the crimes which ranked highest on residents' lists of priorities for the Force.
In one survey, 41 percent of respondents said they wanted police to concentrate on cutting domestic burglaries rates in the county which have a devastating emotional impact on their victims.
In a later questionnaire, a quarter of residents again placed domestic burglary as their top concern, significantly higher than any other single offence. As a result, Bedfordshire Police Authority ensured burglary was listed as a top priority in its Strategic Plan and that action was drawn up to target this type of crime.
And now latest figures show the Authority and Force's efforts to address burglary rates across the county are already bearing fruit. Two fewer burglary offences took place in the county per day between April and December 2011 (from 10.7 per day in 2010 to 8.4 in the first nine months of this year). Meanwhile, police are also detecting a greater number of burglary offences, from 16 percent between April and December 2010 to 20% in the same period last year.
Overall crime also fell at a rate of almost five fewer offences per day, from 119.5 between April and December 2010 to 115.2 in the same period last year. In addition, robbery rates – which also featured high on the public's list of priorities – also saw improvements as well as its detection rate.
Penny Fletcher chairman of Bedfordshire Police Authority's Performance Scrutiny Committee said: "These figures are extremely encouraging and show the public that we have not only listened to them but are also delivering on the actions we outlined in our Strategic Plan. Our communities play a huge role in the way we set our policing agenda and these results show that making the effort to tell us what you think can have a real impact on our operational decisions.
"Both the Police Authority and the Force are constantly striving to improve the service the public receives whether this is in the way we deal with victims of crime or the way we listen to the problems which concern our communities. By closing the gap between public expectations and performance we will hopefully improve satisfaction levels in local policing and ensure confidence continues to grow in the Force.
"Bedfordshire Police has maintained its improved national rank positions in all of its priority detection categories compared to last year which means our communities are not only safer, they are also receiving a better service in the investigation and detection of the crimes which take place in the county. By continuing to place the needs of residents at the heart of our decisions, I am confident we will continue to bring further reductions and service improvements in the future."
Further consultation this year has again identified domestic burglary as an ongoing concern for residents and as such it will feature prominently again in this year's Plan.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Use of the Rye Recreation Ground
Eaton Bray Parish Council has been approached by EB Lions, our local junior Football Club, about the possibility of enclosing a small part of the Rye Recreation Ground to build an all-weather training pitch. This would be paid for by EB Lions; the Parish Council would not provide any funding. We need your views on this proposal.
On the plan shown, the proposed location of the proposed facility is to the right of the main football pitch on the Totternhoe Road side (the green is already used for grass football matches and will continue to be so).
A larger plan of this design can be found on the parish notice board (Knights Close) and the parish website - Rye Recreation Ground - Larger Plan. Although not shown, the playground area will remain in its current position.
The proposed development is being put forward with the view that the project offers the following benefits to the local community:
- An all-weather facility is important for the local youth football players to allow their training/ coaching to take place throughout the year.
- The facility would be available to the local primary schools to use during the week to support the delivery of the PE curriculum and extra-curricular activities. The shared use of the facility would also strengthen school-club links.
- The provision of an all-weather pitch would reduce wear on the current grass pitches which are being used for training and matches.
- Without a local all-weather pitch facility it is considered that the club's continued development would be hindered.
This is where you come in ...
To have your say regarding this facility, its proposed location and its benefit to the local community/children; please write to/email the Parish Clerk at Eaton Bray Parish Council.
Please ensure you include your postcode/village where you live, to enable the council to collate comments into areas of response.
Thank you
Parish Office: 20 Good Intent, Edlesborough, LU6 2RD
Email: [email protected]
All responses MUST be received by the Parish Clerk
NO LATER than Friday 24th February 2012.
Quarterly Crime Update
Quarterly crime figures published show overall levels in Bedfordshire for the 12 months to September 2011 are below the England and Wales average at 70 crimes per 1000 people compared to 74 crimes per 1000 people in England and Wales.
Results of the British Crime Survey, which have also been made available, show Bedfordshire's victim satisfaction rates are currently showing an improving trend. The latest local data shows an improvement from 79% satisfaction in the 12 months to October 2010 to 82% in the 12 months to October 2011.
Chief Constable Alf Hitchcock said: "We note the recent report comparing figures to September 2011 and these represent an historic snapshot of where the Force was in 2010 and part of 2011 policing years. The Force is working hard to drive down those crimes that most harm communities including burglary, robbery and MSV (Most Serious Violence) as well as bringing to justice those responsible. The figure to the end of December shows our continuing success in reversing previous trends and we remain committed to fighting crime and protecting the public."
The figures show crime levels in Bedfordshire have fallen in a number of crime categories – there has been a 25% reduction in "Sexual Offences", a 9% reduction in "Offences against Vehicles", a 6% reduction in "Criminal Damage" and a 24% reduction in "Other Offences". Bedfordshire currently has the lowest rate of "Sexual Offences" in England and Wales.
There has been a 12% increase in "Violence against the person – without Injury" in Bedfordshire. However, Bedfordshire is still below the England and Wales average for this offence category at 7.3 crimes per 1000 people compared to the England and Wales rate of 7.7 crimes per 1000 people. Bedfordshire is also similar to the England and Wales crime rate for overall "Violence against the person" and for "Violence against the person – with Injury".
Bedfordshire's Domestic Burglary rate was 14.6 crimes per 1000 households compared to an England and Wales average of 11 crimes per 1000 households. This remains a priority for the force and rates for the period April to December 2011 are 19% lower than the period in April to December 2010 and the detection rate for Domestic Burglary has improved from 16% to 21%.
While the quarterly figures published show Bedfordshire had one of the highest Robbery levels in England and Wales in the 12 month period to September 2011 this equates to a Robbery rate of 1.3 crimes per 1000 people. Bedfordshire's robbery level has remained unchanged in comparison to the previous 12 month period compared to a 4% increase in England and Wales. Robbery rates for the period April to December 2011 are 6% lower than the period in April to December 2010 and the detection rate for Robbery has improved from 19% to 23%.
Bedfordshire has a below average rate of recorded drug offences at 2.7 crimes per 1000 population compared to 4.2 crimes per 1000 people in England and Wales.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Driving home the message to young people in Central Bedfordshire
Teenagers can have a bad reputation when it comes to cars - some drive too fast and they haven't got the experience of more mature motorists.
But two new courses aimed at giving young drivers the skills they need before they venture onto the area's roads could change all that.
Supported by Central Bedfordshire Council in partnership with their Highways Contractor Amey, the courses will be running in January and March.
Having already proved popular in the past, the MORE 16 and MORE Drive programmes target young people in Central Bedfordshire , aged between 16 and 24 and offer three workshops on driving skills, maintenance and safety before they start learning to drive.
The workshops are run by vehicle inspectors and collision investigators from Bedfordshire Police, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, Three Shires Driving School and Bedford's Millbrook proving ground and offer real-life experience from professionals at the top of their field.
The MORE 16 programme, which will be running on Saturday 28 January and Saturday 3 March, is aimed at 16 year-olds and offers them their first taste of driving on a Millbrook track. The course also offers guidance to parents on choosing a driving instructor and how to help their teens when practising. As an incentive for parents to attend, they receive a high-speed passenger ride around a track with a Millbrook pro-driver with competition history in motorsport such as Rallying or Racing.
The MORE Drive programme, which will run on Sunday 29 January and Sunday 4 March, offers 17 to 24 year-olds, who have passed their driving test, the chance to drive on a skid pan and experience ABS braking systems as well as practising emergency stops at speed to demonstrate the distance it takes to stop at varying speeds.
Elliott Viola, who has already taken part in a course, said: "What will stay with me is what not to do while driving - like speeding, drinking alcohol, or being on a mobile phone - and making sure that you are in charge, not someone else trying to influence you."
Councillor Budge Wells, Deputy Executive Member for Sustainable Communities Services, said: "These programmes offer a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn new skills and improve their driving ability.
"I'm delighted that we can offer these opportunities across Central Bedfordshire. Having attended MORE Drive, I have seen how much everyone took away with them and hope we have even more young people attend the future events."
For more information on either the MORE 16 or MORE Drive programmes, or to attend events next year, email [email protected].
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - January 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 9th January 2012
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 6th February 2012, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Make Sure You Stay Safe This Christmas and New Year
It's that time of year again…..Christmas parties, office functions and so much food you don't know which way to turn and of course alcohol.
Bedfordshire Police would like to wish everyone a merry Christmas and happy New Year but would also like to take the opportunity to warn party goers about the dangers of excess alcohol.
"Many of us don't really indulge during the year as much as we do during the festive season and the consequences of drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can be severe", warns Superintendent Dave Boyle, who is heading this year's Christmas and New Year safety campaign.
"I would like to remind members of the public not only to consider the drink drive laws and driving the day after a night out, but to take extra precautions about their personal safety when they are out enjoying themselves," he added.
Here are some easy safety tips that members of the public can follow to help keep them safe over the festive period:
- We all like to plan a night out but make sure you also plan how to get home safely.
- When out with friend's stay with them, stay together and stay safe.
- Watch what you are drinking – keep an eye on how much and what you are drinking.
- Always use a reputable taxi service and never get into a taxi which has not been ordered by you or is not displaying the Hackney licence details.
- And don't forget a good night out deserves remembering, have fun, be safe, hold on to your smile and walk away from any trouble.
Bedfordshire Police will be running Christmas initiatives throughout the festive season in the towns and busy areas throughout the county and together with their partners will crackdown on those being anti social whilst keeping an eye out for anyone who has over indulged and needs help.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Don't Let Jack Frost Assist Car Thieves
Bedfordshire Police are urging vehicle owners across the county to think twice about leaving their cars running outside their homes while unattended.
With the weather starting to turn a bit nippier, it is tempting for motorists to start their vehicles to warm them up before heading off on their journey. This means that vehicles are often left unattended which offers easy pickings for opportunist thieves.
This week there have been two incident in the Leighton Buzzard area where motorists have been left car-less after leaving their running vehicles unattended. The first happened at 8am on Monday December 19 when a Vauxhall Astra was stolen from outside a property in Bideford Green, Linslade as the owner cleared frost form the windscreen. About 20 minutes later, a similar incident occurred in North Court, Leighton Buzzard, when a Nissan Qashqai was taken.
Chief Inspector Neill Waring of Bedfordshire Police, said: "I know that it can be very tempting for people to wait in nice, warm houses as their cars defrost but thieves have become wise. You have to ask yourself whether it is really worth the risk of losing your vehicle.
"The last thing that we want is for people to make things easy for criminals - there are plenty of products on the market to prevent frost or remove it quickly but the best way, by far, is to stay with your vehicle while it is being defrosted, and it's free."
For more advice about how to secure your vehicles and property, please visit the 'crime info' section of our website.
If you have information relating to these incidents, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - December 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th December 2011
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 9th January 2012, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Bedfordshire Police re-launch Domestic Abuse Prevention Scheme for Christmas
The Christmas period is often a mix of stress, alcohol and family disagreements and while for many people this is as much a part of the festive season as mince pies and roast turkey, for others it is a volatile mix that leads to an increase in domestic abuse.
Following the success of a pilot scheme in Luton last year, Bedfordshire Police will be running the project once again in the town using offender management techniques that were originally developed in relation to the fight against gun and gang criminality.
The Christmas period is often a mix of stress, alcohol and family disagreements and while for many people this is as much a part of the festive season as mince pies and roast turkey, for others it is a volatile mix that leads to an increase in domestic abuse.
Following the success of a pilot scheme in Luton last year, Bedfordshire Police will be running the project once again in the town using offender management techniques that were originally developed in relation to the fight against gun and gang criminality.
The initiative was designed to prevent domestic abuse offending and reduce the risk to potential victims and it achieved great success over the holiday period. Last year the top ten offenders identified did not commit a single offence over the Christmas period, whether or not it was related to domestic abuse.
Detective Inspector Richard Wall who is leading the scheme this year, believes that the successful results last Christmas and the work involving different teams within the force, is an example of what can be achieved when everyone works toward a single goal.
"Whilst Christmas is a time of great celebration, unfortunately it is also a period of the year when a significant number of homicides are related to domestic abuse and the risk factors for victims increase, especially where alcohol is involved," DI Wall explained.
"Last year the Chief Constable Alf Hitchcock set out a very clear message that our role as officers and staff of Bedfordshire Police is to continue to 'fight crime and protect the public'. This initiative played an important part in allowing us to achieve that objective and by putting the offender on the back foot we were able to reduce the risk to potential victims and we are hoping for much of the same this year."
He continued: "The scheme means that officers are trying to change the behaviour of domestic abuse offenders. We identify those that present the most serious risk to victims and over the holiday period, officers from our Local Policing Teams will be visiting these people to remind them that although we want them to enjoy a happy and peaceful Christmas, officers will be keeping an eye on them to make sure they don't commit any offences.
"By using this direct and targeted method we believe that if we have manage to cause a single person to think twice and change their behaviour, then we have achieved our aim."
Offenders are selected using a method devised by Strathclyde Police in the Glasgow area that took into account the gravity of offending as well as how often and recently the offences occurred.
As well as members of the Local Policing Teams, officers from the force's Public Protection Unit and Intelligence Teams continue to be key players in the scheme, which if it continues to be a success, will be rolled out throughout the county.
DI Wall added: "We are all aware of the reluctance of some victims to support police activity when we use traditional methods of policing this type of abuse. The pilot study in Glasgow and our own experience last year found that if support is provided to victims they are more likely to assist the police.
"I would reassure anyone who faces domestic abuse or anyone knows someone who is a victim of this type of abuse to contact the police. We can help and if they do not wish to speak to an officer direct we can put them in touch with organisations outside the policing family who can offer advice and practical support."
Bedfordshire Police works closely with the soLUTiONs partnership and if anyone wants confidential help and advice regarding domestic abuse they can speak to an Independent Domestic Abuse Advisor on 01234 844284 or to the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 08082 000247.
If you have information relating to Domestic Violence, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011. Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Perry Mead Eaton Bray - Burglary car taken
Bedfordshire Police ask residents to review their home security and where they keep vehicle keys, after a burglary took place in Perry Mead, off High Street, in Eaton Bray, on Wednesday the 30th of November.
- The offence took place between 8:00 a.m. and 2:45 p.m.
- The offender has gained access to the garden through a side gate that had been left unlocked.
- A patio door has been damaged, and a ground floor window has been forced open.
- An iPod and vehicle keys have been taken.
- The offender has used the stolen keys, to remove the owner vehicle.
- The car has since been recovered in Dunstable.
This crime is part of a series where the offenders have used keys stolen from a burglary, to also steal a vehicle.
- Keep doors double-locked at all times.
- Avoid leaving property like vehicle keys, handbags, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.
- Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.
- Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.
- Be a good Neighbour.
- Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Force Control Room on 101, and quote crime reference, J D / 4 8 4 6 5 / 2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011
Email your message to [email protected]
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
Celebrate Christmas with
Eaton Bray Parish Council
Enjoy ...
Christmas Carols & Brass Ensemble Around The Village
On Thursday 22nd December 2011
From 7:00pm
To help us all get in the Christmas spirit, the Parish Council have
arranged for a small brass ensemble to play a few of the most
popular Christmas Carols around Eaton Bray on the
evening of 22nd December.
The Brass ensemble will visit a number of locations. The evening
commences from 7:00pm in Medley Close, then moves to Knights
Close, Cantilupe Close, Greenways, ending outside the White Horse
at around 8:45pm.
All adults & children are urged to come outside and
have a good old Christmas sing-a-long.
(song sheets will be available but please bring your own torch/lantern)
CELEBRATE IN STYLE
Catalytic Converter Etching Day Postponed
Bedfordshire are informing motorists of the postponement of the free catalytic converter etching service which was due to take place at Halfords Autocentre in High Street South, Dunstable this Saturday, 12th November.
Due to other commitments Halfords is unable to host the day this week but will be supporting the initiative on another weekend in the future.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Shed Breaks - Check Your Home Security NOW
Bedfordshire residents are being warned to check their sheds and garages are secure after a series of break-ins across the county.
Bicycles and mopeds are on the top of burglars' lists of things to steal, but gardening equipment and other household items are also popular and easy to get at if people continue to leave their outbuildings and gardens insecure.
Neighbourhoods across the county have seen an increase in the number of thefts, which in terms sees crime figures rise dramatically because people are not making sure their sheds, garages and gardens are secure or locked, and property within it secure.
Bedfordshire Police Crime Reduction Officer Lesley Johnson, said: "We would encourage everyone who keeps a bicycle or moped in their garage or shed to not only lock the door but secure the bike as well. In addition to this, don't leave bolt croppers, lopping-shears or other such items lying around, making it easy for burglars to free your property and run off with it in a matter of seconds. We must all have a common sense to security and do our bit to reduce crime."
Many householders do not consider the value of the goods in the shed and therefore look after them accordingly. If your shed only contains a few broken pots and seed trays then closing the door with a bent nail might be adequate. However – if like so many – your shed contains the mower, strimmer, power tools, barbecue and kids' bikes then the old bent nail is woefully inadequate. Thieves are not averse to stealing items, which need a trailer or van either – ride-on lawnmowers and particularly quad bikes are very popular.
However, there are steps to take that will deter most thieves:
- Check gates and fences – are there any weak spots – a high back wall and a thorny hedge are two great deterrents.
- Side passage - fit a strong gate.
- Sheds and garages – buy and USE a good quality lock, padbolt or hasp and staple with padlocks.
- Consider an inexpensive alarm system.
- Do you really need a window in the shed or could it be boarded up?
- Mark your property with postcode. You can buy cheap kits from most DIY stores, which enable you to etch the number on – or simply paint it on. This is more effective than "invisible" marking which can fade. You could share the cost of the kit with neighbours and friends.
Bedfordshire Police and Crime Reduction co-ordinators continue to actively target the problem at the moment but anything that can be done to prevent the problem in the first place is invaluable.
If you have information relating to any burglaries, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111,or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - October 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd October 2011
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 7th November 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Let's Talk Together: Community Meeting
Date: Tuesday 6 December
Time: 7-9pm
Location: Eaton Bray Village Hall, Church Lane, Eaton Bray, LU6 2DJ
Visit the market stalls anytime between 7 - 7.45pm to talk to a range of public service providers, meet your local policing team and your Parish and Ward Councillors.
From 8pm join the conversation with other residents to decide the community safety priorities for the area, discuss local topical issues and what can be done together to make things work better.
The meeting will be chaired by a Council Executive Member.
For further information please visit www.centraltogether.org.uk
Source: Focus, October 2011
Ensure That You Have A Great Halloween
With Halloween just around the corner, Bedfordshire Police has launched a series of posters to remind parents, guardians and youngsters to stay safe during the festivities.
The four posters – which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page offer hints and tips to 'Trick or Treaters' as well reminding people that not everyone enjoys Halloween as much as others. There are also posters for shop owners to place in their windows advising that eggs and flour will be sold at their discretion as well as a poster for residents who may not want callers at their door.
Officers have already been to schools around Bedfordshire to hand out posters and it is hoped that the campaign will ensure that all residents enjoy October 31 without causing distress to those who do not want to participate.
Head of Community Safety for the force, Police Inspector Alex House, said: "During Halloween some people, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, can find it very frightening to have large groups unexpectedly calling at their homes asking for treats.
"If possible, parents and guardians should go out trick or treating with their children, sticking to well-lit areas and only knocking on the doors of people they know. Some people may have 'No trick or treat' posters up at their doors and we ask that these are respected.
"We don't want to spoil anyone's fun, we simply want to ensure people have a safe and enjoyable Halloween."
During this time of year, the police take many extra complaints about Halloween-related activities. Some of these are about noise or general "high spirits" – but often the fun has degenerated into serious inconvenience and outright criminal activity.
Activities such as throwing eggs, flour and water bombs at other people or their property are, at the least, frightening for those who are subjected to it and at worst can mean the police investigating crimes such as assault.
Coupled with the onset of Bonfire night, Halloween can also mean extra problems with fireworks being thrown or used irresponsibly. It's worth bearing in mind that letting off fireworks near the road is actually a criminal offence.
To help reduce these types of incidents Bedfordshire Police will have a number of extra patrols in operation across the county to make sure that everyone has a good time whilst staying safe.
- Sorry No Trick, No Treat, No Thanks
- Your idea of fun might not be someone else's
- During Halloween, eggs and flour will be sold at our discretion
- Have fun and stay safe this halloween
Source: Ringmaster, Bedfordshire
Farm Theft - 14 October 2011
Bedfordshire Police are asking rural business owners to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious vehicles, or visitors, after a theft took place at a farm in Eaton Bray.
The offence took place between 9:00 a.m. on the 13th and 7:10 a.m. on the 14th of October.
The offender has approached the yard and removed high value machinery.
Property taken was a Head Plate and Truck times for a vehicle at the location.
A witness reported a vehicle that may be linked to this offence.
A White Van, registration similar to B J 5 3 K P J.
Bedfordshire Police aks local residents and businesses to be exta vigilant and review the security of all property that may be visible from the road.
For more information on reducing rural crime visit www.safer-beds.org.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Force Control Room on 1 0 1, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,4,1,9,7,2,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected]
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
The Planning System - How Can I Make It Work For Me?
FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2011, 9:00AM TO 4:30PM
THE RUFUS CENTRE, STEPPINGLEY, FLITWICK, MK45 1AH
This whole day session is part of CPRE/NALC's Supporting Communities and Neighbourhoods in Planning project.
It will be an excellent opportunity to help people get to grips with the planning system and responding to planning applications. The event is funded by Communities and Local Government so there will be no charge to delegates but booking with CPRE is essential. The event is open to all members of the community, so we anticipate wide interest.
Please book your place early to avoid disappointment.
For bookings please contact:
Ann Collett-White, Branch Development Manager
CPRE Bedfordshire, 5 Grove Place, Bedford, MK40 3JJ
Mobile: 07989 837819
Email: [email protected]
-- BEDFORDSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF TOWN & PARISH COUNCILS
Parish Council Meeting - 3rd October 2011
The next Eaton Bray Parish Council meeting will be held on 3rd October at 7.30pm in the Coffee Tavern.
-- Parish Council Clerk
Budget 2012 - A message from Councillor James Jamieson
Have your say before Friday, 14th October.
Every day of the year, Central Bedfordshire Council provides services to Eaton Bray and other communities around Central Beds. All of us will make use of some of these services, whether they are road maintenance, waste collection or the social care services that protect vulnerable children and adults; Central Bedfordshire Council spends more than £180 million a year delivering these services.
Looking ahead, there will be less Government grant available for the Council than there has been in the past, as efforts to tackle the national deficit continue. There are also increasing pressures on some of the services provided by the Council because of increasing needs and rising costs.
Central Bedfordshire Council achieved savings of more than £20 million already from reviewing what they do and how they work. This year they must save another £19m and expect further reductions in the next fnancial year.
Taking all these factors into consideration, the Council is preparing a financial strategy for the next four years - and would like your views to be "at the heart of the plans".
Whatever your opinions, please take this opportunity to
shape the plans and make your council tax money count!
Complete the Budget Survey 2012 online.
Complete the Budget 2012 survey
To have your say on the council's budget priorities, you can complete the survey online using the Budget Survey 2012 form.
Alternatively, please print and complete the survey and return by Friday, 14 October 2011 (you do not need a stamp) to:
FREEPOST RSJS GBB2 SRZT,
Budget Consultation,
Central Bedfordshire Council,
Priory House, Monks Walk,
Chicksands,
Shefford,
SG17 5TQ
What happens next?
The feedback from this survey will help Councillors prepare options for savings for next year and beyond, with consultation on these options during December 2011 and January 2012.
You can keep up to date with the council's budget setting process at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
School Lane Eaton Bray - theft
Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious, after a theft took place from School Lane, in Eaton Bray, on Monday the 12th of September.
The offence took place at 5:45 p.m.
The offender has arrived at the location in a Silver or Grey, Ford Transit Van, with the part registration A J 5 2.
A lock has been cut from the gate.
A large Stainless Steel Sink has been taken.
For more information on reducing crime visit Safer-Beds.org.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,3,7,5,6,9,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011
Email your message to [email protected]
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Meeting - 5th September 2011
The next Eaton Bray Parish Council meeting will be held on 5th September at 7.30pm in the Coffee Tavern.
-- Parish Council Clerk
How about a Cops v Kids football match?
Bedfordshire Police's Local Policing Teams (formerly Safer Neighbourhood Teams) have organised a series of Active Surgeries during the summer holidays. In addition to offering help and advice, the teams will be carrying out property marking and offering to secure car number plates.
Sporting activities for youngsters will also be provided!
So, why not come along and see how our Officers fair against youngsters in a game of football?
Wednesday 3rd August, 1.00pm - 4.00pm, Eaton Bray Skate Park (School Lane)
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - July 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th July 2011
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 5th September 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Parcel Delivery Scam - It's NOT your name on it!
Bedfordshire Police is warning the public to check labels carefully when taking delivery of parcels at their homes...
A new scam has come to notice whereby parcels are being delivered to residences with the labels showing a correct address, but an unknown name. The person receiving the parcel has been asked to sign for it and, in many cases, has done so.
Soon after the delivery, usually the following day, a woman visits the address saying she believes a parcel intended for her has been delivered there by mistake.
The woman takes the parcel and is not seen again.
Within a few days, occupants of the address invariably start to receive paperwork, often including payment demands for the parcel.
The woman is described as being of mixed race, aged in her 20s, large build and approximately 5'5" tall. She has 'significant red hair'.
Sergeant Andy Rivers said, "Even if you are expecting a delivery, make sure the label is correctly addressed to you or a member of your household.
"If you are not expecting a parcel, carefully inspect the label and if there are any discrepancies in the details, you must seriously consider declining the delivery."
If this has happened to you, or you have any information about the scam, please contact Sergeant Rivers on 01234 841212 or text 07786 200011, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously if preferred, on 0800 555111.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Advice from Trading Standards
Buckinghamshire Trading Standards are warning residents to be on their guard against a company called DIRECT RESPONSE SECURITY attempting to sell "free monitored alarm systems".
Salespersons normally cold-call by telephone and advise residents that they have been selected to receive a "free monitored alarm system" and that a representative is in the area and will call on them to discuss the matter further.
The representatives calling at people's homes then make a number of false/misleading claims that there is a problem with crime in the area and convince residents to get a burglar alarm fitted. Once the alarm is installed, the residents are left with a large bill for future monitoring services they have been tricked into signing up to.
Trading standards across the country are reporting complaints of companies scaring consumers into accepting a free burglar alarm which then ties the victim to a contract costing thousands of pounds.
The Trading Standards Institute is urging consumers to say no to companies offering these free appliances, claiming they are working with the police or as part of a Government scheme, or that they are researching for a fire and security alarm system company.
The salesman will typically cold call, keen to make a home visit the same day to discuss the installation of a free or cheap alarm. The companies are reported to use high pressure tactics and to scaremonger about rising crime levels in the area, while some are reported to make misleading claims about the alarms being directly linked to the police or the availability of a hotline to police patrol cars.
What they fail to mention are the fees that residents will have to pay for the monitoring, upkeep and rapid response facilities, which can add up to thousands of pounds.
Some have found themselves tied to a six-year contract agreement costing up to £6,000.
Consumers who sign on the dotted line will have a seven day cooling off period during which they can change their minds.
Trading Standards are urging residents, especially pensioners and their families, to be on their guard and not to buy anything based on a cold-call. If you think you have been a victim of this or a similar scam and would like advice on your rights please call Consumer Direct on 0808 156 2259.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Emergency forum helps locals save water
A local resilience forum is helping locals save water after the Environment Agency recently confirmed that parts of Bedfordshire are experiencing drought.
Despite recent rain, the county is experiencing one of the driest six month periods across East Anglia, since records began. As a result the Bedford and Luton Local Resilience forum (BBLRF) is urging locals to save water by issuing tips which could saves households thousands of litres of water per year.
The forum, made up of Bedford and Luton councils, The Environment Agency and the bluelight service are asking locals to take simple measures such as not leaving the tap running when brushing this teeth, this alone can save up to six litres of water per minute which arcoss the country is enough to fill over 1,400 Olympic size swimming pools.
For more information on ways to save water and what the drought means for you visit: environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/drought/
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Your Number's Up!
Ringmaster have recently published three articles from Bedfordshire Police regarding Vehicle Crime.
Vauxhall Wing Mirrors Flying Away in Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire Police are investigating a string of wing mirror thefts across the county. Reports have been received over the last six months of exceptionally high numbers of colour-coded wing mirror casings being stolen from cars.
The predominant targets are Vauxhalls, mostly from Bedford and Luton. In fact, 81 offences have been reported between January and June 1 this year. Fifty three of these thefts were from Vauxhalls, with Mark 4 and 5 Astras being the most commonly stolen type.
"We've noticed a significant upturn in these type of thefts in the last few months," said Det Con Vicky Willett, from the Intelligence Unit. "The mirror casings are not cheap to replace and because they are not marked by the manufacturers, even if we find them it's difficult to trace them back to their rightful owners and prove they are stolen. That means the criminal could get away with the crime and continue stealing."
"We're investigating the spate of thefts but we also really need the public's help. We'd like as many people as possible to write their postcode and house number on the bottom outside edge on the casing. That means we can identify the stolen parts if we arrest those suspected of stealing them," she said.
We have free ultraviolet markers to give away to people to do this and they are available from Greyfriars, Luton, Dunstable and Ampthill police stations. The UV pens can also be used to mark all household property such as electrical items, mobile phones and bikes etc.
If people who would like an indelible marker which is completely unique to their household they can buy Smartwater from Neighbourhood Watch for a £20 fee, call 01234 275165.
Campaign Means 'Number's Up' for Car Criminals
The number is up for thieves who persist in stealing registration plates and other valuables from vehicles.
That is the hard-hitting warning from Bedfordshire Police who next month (July) are launching a new overt and covert campaign aimed at driving offences down – and putting offenders behind bars.
Called the 'Your Number's Up' campaign, it comes in response to figures that show there have been more than 660 thefts from motor vehicles across central and south Bedfordshire since the beginning of the year.
They include nearly 150 "smash and grab" offences where thieves have broken into vehicles to steal valuables like sat navs and lap-tops and nearly 90 where registration plates have been taken.
They are often used to hide the true identity of vehicles used in crime, such as stealing fuel from filling stations where registration plates are routinely filmed.
'Your Number's Up' will be launched the week commencing Monday, July 4 when officers will stage several roadshows across Central and South Bedfordshire under the Car Accessory Protection Scheme (CAPS) banner.
During the roadshows local policing teams will secure motorists' registration plates with tamper-proof screws free of charge and hand out crime prevention advice.
CCTV images of those wanted in connection with forecourt crime will be increasingly hosted on a new section of the Force web site. They will also be forwarded to social media sites and other media.
Police and PCSOs will be stepping up warnings to drivers who leave valuables on show, either by speaking to them face to face or, if that is not possible, by sending letters to their home addresses.
Teams will be paying particular attention to town centre car parks and to local beauty spots, which thieves are known to target during the warmer months.
A new hotline with 24 hour answering machine has been set up, meaning anyone with information about vehicle crime can leave it in the certain knowledge it will be reviewed by a dedicated vehicle squad intelligence officer.
All useful information gained will help with the planning of overt and covert operations, including those that involve the early morning execution of warrants at offenders' homes.
DCI Greg Horford, who is leading the 'Your Number's Up' campaign said: "Tackling vehicle crime is a force priority and we will leave no stone unturned in the hunt for those responsible for it.
"The public can help by taking the appropriate crime prevention measures and by contacting us the moment they have information that could assist police. By working together we can send a clear message to thieves that 'your number's up'."
Anyone with information about vehicle crime can leave a message on the dedicated 'Your Number's Up' hotline on 01582 473241. Alternatively telephone the main switchboard on 01234 841212, text to 07768 20011 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Thank you for your support.
White Seat Leon involved in burglaries
Police are seeking assistance from the public across Aylesbury Vale to look out for a white Seat Leon which is suspected of being involved in 4 burglaries across the Vale and into Hertfordshire. The offences have been committed since the 31st May when the car was stolen from a house in Bierton.
If you see a white Seat Leon in suspicious or unusual circumstances (parked outside neighbours house or on their driveway when they don't use such a car, of if they aren't home etc) then please record the registration and call police immediately informing them you believe the vehicle to be in suspicious circumstances and have been asked to call in with the registration following an appeal on Community Messaging. This will enable police operators to conduct further checks and deploy police officers if this is necessary.
Any information can be passed to the Police via the 24 hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505 or if you suspect a crime is in progress dial on 999.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
St Mary's Village Carnival: Road Closure Notice
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 16A
(HIGH STREET, THE ORCHARDS, TOTTERNHOE ROAD, NORTHALL ROAD, BOWER LANE AND MOOR END, EATON BRAY)
(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2011
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Central Bedfordshire Council intend not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order the effect of which will be to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along the following lengths of road;
- High Street, Eaton Bray for its full length
- The Orchards, Eaton Bray for its full length
- Totternhoe Road, Eaton Bray from its junction with Northall Road to its junction with The Rye
- Northall Road, Eaton Bray at its junction with the High Street
- Bower Lane, Eaton Bray at its junction with the High Street
- Moor End, Eaton Bray from its junction with High Street to county boundary.
These temporary closures are required to facilitate the holding of the St Mary’s Village Carnival and Parade.
The closure will be operative on Saturday 2 July 2011 between 10.00am and 3.00pm.
The alternative routes available for vehicles affected by the proposed Order are:-
Proceed on Bower Lane to roundabout with B489 Icknield Way. Take 3rd exit and continue on Icknield Way to roundabout with A4146 Leighton Road, Eddlesborough. Take 3rd exit and continue on Leighton Road to junction with Stanbridge Road, Billington. Turn right and continue on Stanbridge Road to junction with The Rye, Eaton Bray. Turn right and continue on The Rye to junction with Totternhoe Road and site and vice versa.
The proposed Order will come into operation on 2 July 2011 for a period of one day.
(Access may be allowed from time to time according to local timings)
For further information please contact Heidi Head, Eaton Bray Parish Council; Tel/Fax: 01525 221464.
DATED 15 June 2011
Basil Jackson
Assistant Director for Highways and Transportation
Central Bedfordshire Council
Technology House, Ampthill Road,
Bedford MK42 9BD
Beware of Jewellery Scammers
Bedfordshire Police are asking local residents to be on their guard after at least five people were victims of theft in Luton and Dunstable in the last two months.
The latest incident took place on Wednesday June 1st between 11.30am and midday in Eldon Road in Luton, when the offender approached a man loading his vehicle on his driveway and placed a gold chain around his neck offering it for sale. He asked them to leave and they removed the victim's real chain, without his knowledge, leaving theirs behind.
The thieves have previously targeted victims in and around Dunstable and Luton. Two thefts occurred in Sainsbury's in Dunstable Road, Luton and Boscombe Road, Dunstable.
Two further thefts occurred in residential roads near to the Luton and Dunstable Hospital usually targeting elderly victims.
Investigating officer, Ruth Melnykowicz said: "On all occasions the offenders have been described as females of eastern European appearance, wearing long skirts and head scarves."
"We would urge people to remain vigilant to people approaching them on the street offering jewellery or other items of value for sale. We would also like to hear from anyone else who believes they may have been a victim of this type of theft."
Anyone with information can contact Ruth Melnykowicz on 01582 394022, Bedfordshire Police on 01234 841212, text 07786 200011, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Let's Talk Together
Let's Talk Together: Community Meeting for the Leighton Rural area
Date: Thursday 30 June
Time: 7-9pm
Location: St Nicholas Church Hall, Barton-Le-Clay, Beds, MK45 4LA
Visit the market stalls anytime between 7 - 7.45pm to talk to a range of public service providers, meet your local policing team and your Parish and Ward Councillors.
From 8pm join the conversation with other residents to decide the community safety priorities for the area, discuss local topical issues and what can be done together to make things work better.
The meeting will be chaired by a Council Executive Member
For further information please visit www.centraltogether.org.uk.
Central Bedfordshire Libraries
Library Service Review and 'Big Library Debate'
Residents in Central Bedfordshire are being encouraged to take part in the ‘Big Library Debate’ which will look at shaping the Library Service, making sure it meets the needs of future generations and offers best value for money.
Central Bedfordshire Libraries are at the heart of local communities and provide a gateway to information, learning and resources for all ages and the Council wants to ensure that the service is fit for the 21st century, making best use of modern technology and allowing easy access for all to benefit.
Between the 1 June and 13 July, the 'Big Library Debate' display stands will be based at Libraries across Central Bedfordshire on the dates listed below and we would be delighted to see you there.
| 1-10 June | 15-28 June | 1-12 July |
| Dunstable Library | Leighton Buzzard Library | Biggleswade Library |
| Ampthill Library | Flitwick Library | Toddington Library |
| Sandy Library | Potton Library | Stotfold Library |
| Shefford Library | Barton Library | Houghton Regis Library |
We also want to hear from people who don’t use the library service so we will be out and about in town centres and the Let’s Talk Together meetings talking to local people too. Details of all activities will be available online from Wednesday 1 June. If you have any ideas of local community events we could attend or ways of promoting the 'Big Library Debate' then please let us know.
Additionally, we will be holding some discussion groups to hear in more depth how service users and non users think the library service should be developed for the future.
The feedback from these engagement activities will help inform the Library Service Review and options for the future model of the library service. Further consultation with the public, stakeholders and partners on these options will then begin in August.
If you want to find out more about libraries in general or the Big Library Debate please email Kate McFarlane or Nicola Avery.
Yours sincerely,
Nicola Avery
Library Services Manager
Central Bedfordshire Council
Eaton Bray farm theft
This is a Countryside Watch message issued by Ringmaster, on behalf of Bedfordshire Police.
Bedfordshire Police ask residents in Eaton Bray and rural business owners to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious vehicles, after a theft took place from a farm in Eaton Bray, on Friday the 27th of May.
The offence took place at 8:15 a.m.
A witness saw a White van arrive at the location.
A gate was forced open and a number of tractor and vehicle engine parts were stolen.
The vehicle was seen leaving the location being driven by a white male in his 30s.
The vehicle is described as a Transit style van, with the part registration V P B.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,2,0,9,2,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected]
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Let's Talk Together Community Meeting
We’d like more people from our communities to get involved with the work we do.
It’s only by listening to what our communities tell us that we can work together to make Central Bedfordshire a really great place in which to live, work, learn and travel.
Let’s Talk Together community meetings will give members of the community and local groups the opportunity to discuss their particular issues and concerns with Councillors and representatives from key organisations such as police, health, children/education, community safety, environment, business and volunteering to name but a few.
Dunstable, Houghton Regis & Rural Meeting
Thursday 23rd June
Dunstable FIre Station
Brewers Hill Road
Dunstable
LU6 1AA
7:00pm- 9:00pm
Why not come along?
Emergency planning needs to consider pets
Local families are being urged to remember to include their pets when drawing up plans to respond to unexpected emergencies, such as severe weather, traffic disruption or power failures.
The advice, from emergency response partners within the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF), is especially important as May half – term holiday approaches.
Chairman of BLLRF, Assistant Chief Constable Kath Govier from Bedfordshire Police said: “Emergencies, by their nature, occur when we least expect them. The police and other emergency services are always on hand to respond to such situations.
“However, every family should have its own emergency plan so that each member knows what to do when the unexpected strikes. Experience shows that people often put their own lives in danger in an effort to rescue their pets.
“Millions of people throughout the UK are currently celebrating life with their pets and spreading it is important for families to think about how they would care for their pets if their normal routine was disrupted by a serious emergency.”
BLLRF supports the ‘What would you do if...?’ campaign which aims to help everybody living or working within Bedfordshire and Luton to be prepared and consider what they would do if faced with an emergency. Log onto www.whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Let's Talk Together
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
A pilot series of Let’s Talk Together meetings took place across Central Bedfordshire in each of the seven Safer Neighbourhood Areas during January to March and was well received by both Elected Members, local residents and public service organisations such as the NHS, Fire and Rescue, Police. A further series of meetings based on three per year in each of the seven areas is now being arranged.
The next meetings will take place in June and July, starting at 7pm and finishing at 9pm.
- Dunstable Houghton Regis and Rural area
Thursday 23 June at Dunstable Fire Station - Leighton Rural
Thursday 30 June at St Nicholas Church Hall, Barton-Le-Clay - Leighton Buzzard and Linslade area
Tuesday 5 July (venue to be confirmed)
Part 1 - is the market stall part of the meeting where visitors can drop in between 7 and 7.45pm and have informal discussion with a range of public service providers.
Part 2 - of the meeting follows at 7.45pm where the policing priorities for the area are agreed and will now include an additional presentation covering a local topical issue and discussion time to agree how issues can be tackled together.
For any further information about Let's Talk Together or community engagement please contact Sarah Hughes on: Tel: 0300 300 6166 or Email: [email protected]
Burglary in The Rye
This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police.
Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.
Residents in Eatom Bray are asked to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity in back gardens, after a burglary took place in The Rye.
The offence took place between the 20th and the 24th of April.
The offender gained access to the rear garden, and forced open the door to a conservatory.
Once inside the offender has tried to force a door into the rest of the house.
This has been unsuccessful.
No entry was gained and no property was taken.
Many Burglaries can be prevented.
Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.
Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, or trellis.
Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.
Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,1,7,2,6,8,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected] For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html
Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - April 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th April 2011
The next Parish Council meetings will be:
- Annual Parish Meeting: Monday 9th May 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
- Annual Parish Council Meeting: Wednesday 11th May 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Chief Gives Backing to 'Street Watch' Project
Bedfordshire's new Chief Constable has publically thrown his weight behind an initiative that enables residents to organise high visibility civilian patrols in their own neighbourhoods.
Alf Hitchcock, who joined the force at the beginning of this year, has written an internet article that describes Street Watch as having "huge potential" nationally.
In a front page comment on www.street-watch.org.uk Mr Hitchcock says: "It is a great way for the community to work with the police and make Bedfordshire even safer.
"Street Watch is community empowerment in action and its benefits are clear – crime and anti-social behaviour prevention, reassurance and increased community cohesion.
"Street Watch has huge potential nationally and I am proud that the citizens of Bedfordshire have been so keen to form local schemes and lead the way on this."
Mr Hitchcock spoke out as the wheels were put in motion to launch the tenth Street Watch scheme in Bedfordshire since April last year – making it one of the most successful projects in the country.
A public meeting to rally support was held at Shillington Village Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday (March 31), just a week after another successful scheme was launched in Clifton.
Street Watch, which was originally launched in Hampshire and Surrey, involves local people taking it in turns to patrol communities in high visibility vests to provide reassurance and talk to residents.
It is emphasised they are not doing the job of police officers or PCSOs and have no more power than ordinary citizens. Instead the purpose of Street Watch is to prevent crime by increasing visibility, maintaining effective communication and reporting to police and increasing feelings of safety and community spirit.
Each scheme relies on Street Watch finding coordinators and volunteers prepared to give two hours each month and keep the national web site up to date with what they are doing and where. They also have to be vetted at the same level as police volunteers.
Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Lisa Johnson, who has helped oversee the Bedfordshire project, said: "Street Watch is a classic example of the community and police working in partnership to reduce crime and increase feelings of safety.
"In Marston Moretaine – our first scheme – we saw a 12 per cent decrease in anti-social behaviour and a six per cent decrease in overall crime between May and November 2010. While we cannot positively attribute all this to Street Watch, it is plain the scheme has had an extremely positive impact on the village.
"We would urge anyone interested in setting up a similar scheme in their area to get in touch."
Anyone interested can contact Sgt Johnson direct on 01582 473333, through the main switchboard on 01234 841212 or email [email protected]
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
School Lane Eaton Bray - Burglary
Bedfordshire Police are asking residents in Eaton Bray with UPVC front doors to keep them double locked at all times, after a burglary took place in School Lane.
The offence took place between 11:00 a.m. on the 1st and 5:20 p.m. on the 3rd of April 2011.
The offender has forced open the UPVC front door, and the house has been searched.
Jewellery has been taken.
Many Burglaries can be prevented:-
- Keep doors and windows locked at all times.
- Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.
- Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.
- Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.
- Be a good Neighbour.
- Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.
- Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,1,4,0,9,9,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected] Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
The 2011 National Census
We are aware that the census may give potential distraction burglars or rogue traders an opportunity to target vulnerable people in our communities. To help prevent this, please take note of the following information and, if possible, pass it on to family, friends and neighbours:
- If you have completed and returned your questionnaire promptly (ie before 6 April), you will not be contacted by census field staff.
- All census staff will carry an ID card with a photo, logo and hologram, which they should automatically show to you. They may ask for name and number of residents, but they will not ask for specific details (like credit card or bank/building society details, etc – never disclose these).
- If you forget to complete your form, a census collector will call to request that it is completed. Make sure you check their identity and photo to ensure they are valid. Always use a door chain when opening the door. Census staff are not required to enter you house.
- Our main advice about preventing distraction burglary still applies – if you’re not sure, don’t open the door. Telephone the census helpline on 0300 0201 101 to check the identity of the census collector.
- If you wish, you can request a pre-arranged appointment with a collector, via the census helpline number.
If you have any reason to suspect a caller is not genuine, call Bedfordshire Police on 01234 841212, giving us as much information as you can.
Thank you for your support
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Stay on Mettle Against Lead Thieves
Stay on your mettle against lead thieves if you are planning building work this spring.
That is the advice from Bedfordshire Police who say thieves will not hesitate to take advantage of ladders, or any other potential climbing aids, left lying around.
Chief Insp Neill Waring said the price of scrap lead is still high and reminded do-it-yourself enthusiasts and traders to ensure equipment is stored at night and access to any scaffolding is properly restricted.
Ways to protect lead include:
- Coating it with anti-climb paint. It does not degrade the lead, but will make it very messy and difficult for a thief to remove. The paint is non-drying and marks clothing and skin, often helping the police to identify offenders
- Forensic marking helps identify stolen metal and enables police to trace it back to the owner. It has resulted in the successful conviction of thieves. Products available include SmartWater, Red Web and SelectaDNA Grease
- Check your roof regularly. The earlier you report a theft the more chance there is of finding the stolen metal – particularly if it is marked
- Regularly check the perimeter security of your home or site. Limit access, particularly for vehicles, but maintain the natural surveillance provided by neighbouring premises or routes
- Consider security lighting, CCTV and roof /drive alarms.
- If lead or copper is due for replacement, consider modern alternatives that are less attractive for thieves.
Chief Insp Waring said: "Spring is one of those times often earmarked for building work involving the use of ladders, scaffolding and other equipment.
"Most project managers and builders are extremely security minded but with the price of lead so high we would just like to remind everyone, including the DIY enthusiast, about the importance of removing at night, or protecting, anything that could be used as a climbing aid.
"Double-check all materials and tools are securely put away after work, rather than left on site or in the back of a van, and that tools are security marked with a product like SmartWater. Today all prisoners who come into our custody suites are routinely scanned to establish whether they have come into contact with it.
"Bedfordshire Police are doing all they can to deter lead theft and residents can help by keeping an eye on building sites and contacting us if they see anything suspicious."
For further information and crime prevention advice, contact Bedfordshire Police Crime Reduction Officers on 01234 841212 or email [email protected].
For information about theft contact police, in confidence on01234 841212, text to 07786 200011 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Volunteer Custody Visitors Needed
Bedfordshire Police Authority is currently recruiting Independent Custody Visitors.
Independent Custody Visitors check on the standards in which people are held in custody, enhancing the accountability and transparency of police among the communities they serve. Visitors play a vital role in raising standards in custody and the fair treatment of detainees.
Volunteers from all walks of life and sections of the community are invited to join Bedfordshire Independent Custody Visiting Scheme.
Applications for this recruitment are required by Thursday 7th April 2011.
Applicants must be able to attend induction training on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th June 2011.
To find out more or apply for an application pack please:
Telephone: Pat Brown at Bedfordshire Police Authority on 01234 842067
Email: [email protected]
For more details please visit the Police Authority web site using the link below.
Thank you for your support
Parish Council Minutes - March 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 7th March 2011
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 4th April 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Force Backs 'Burglar Buster' Campaign
Bedfordshire Police are throwing their weight behind a national initiative aimed at helping to protect the elderly from distraction burglars.
From today Safer Neighbourhood Officers are starting to deliver hundreds of posters to shops, post offices, doctors' surgeries, libraries and other locations as part of a national campaign called Operation Liberal.
There are four posters in the campaign that feature the slogan "Not Sure? Don't Open the Door" and pictures of pensioners who have become "Burglar Busters" by following key crime prevention advice.
For example, when two men claiming to be from the "Water Board" called at Jean's home, she called police because she knew "Water Boards" no longer exist. The men are now behind bars. When two men posing as police officers called at Harbans’ house, he kept the door closed while he called local police to check their identity. It turned out they were bogus.
Quick-witted Mary saw a suspicious couple calling next door claiming to have lost a ball in the garden. Mary noted the couple’s vehicle details and called police, who confirmed they were distraction burglars.
And John's quick call to police helped stop a bogus caller pretending to be an energy supplier. John had signed up to the Priority Service Register password scheme and the caller did not know his password. John rightly refused to open his door.
Central Bedfordshire Police Crime Reduction Officer, PC John Shiels, said: "This area is not suffering a major problem with distraction burglars at the moment and we are determined to keep it that way. For that reason we are delighted to back this initiative and the 'Not Sure? Don't Open the Door Message'".
"Our advice to pensioners is to use a spy hole and door chain and insist on seeing identification. If you are any doubt about a caller do not let them in and call police.
Anyone with information about distraction burglary can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212; Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text to 07786 200011.
For crime reduction advice email [email protected].
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - February 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 7th February 2011
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 7th March 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Burglary in Harling Road
A theft took place in Harling Road, in Eaton Bray, between 8:45 p.m. on the 8th and 9:00 a.m. on the 9th of February.
The offender has gained access to a fuel tank in the grounds.
The fuel pipe has been broken and a large amount of heating oil has been taken.
Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.
For more information on reducing crime visit Safer Bedfordshire.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,6,0,7,9,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected]
Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Residents slam village housing plan
A former parish councillor has slammed absentee landowners for trying to push through a massive housing plan for Eaton Bray which he says will blight the village.
Rick Brand has launched a campaign to try and halt potential moves to turn more than 20 acres of open space into housing.
The idea is in its infancy but residents fear that the chance to boost housing stock will lead to Central Beds Council looking favourably on the scheme.
It would mean the loss of former orchards and grazing land which stretch from Bower Lane/ Harling Road behind homes in Orchard Way, Moor End Lane and Mill End Close and down towards the Edlesborough border.
Mr Brand, a former EB parish councillor, moved to Mill End Close, because of the outlook over open fields which attracts a wealth of wildlife.
But he fears he may soon be looking at a new housing estate if the landowners get their way.
The site is owned by a former local woman now retired to Florida and farmers who live out of the village. Last year CBC asked landowners to notify them if they had any areas that may be suitable for housing development.
The Bower Lane site was offered as it is unsuitable as farmland. Moves were made in the 1980s to build on the land but the then South Beds Council threw out the idea because it was in Green Belt and would extend the village's natural boundary.
Now CBC must find room for more than 600 homes in rural areas and Eaton Bray has been identified as one area which could take some development.
Read more of this story on Leighton Buzzard Online and see tomorrow's Leighton Buzzard Observer for the full story.
For the latest news from Eaton Bray and beyond, get the Leighton Buzzard Observer every Tuesday and make a daily date with Leighton Buzzard Online.
Source: Leighton Buzzard Online
Let's Talk Together
Community Meeting for the Leighton Rural area
Let's Talk Together community meetings are for local residents to come along and speak to the organisations who supply public services, share views on local issues and help shape community safety priorities.
Please come along and tell us what matters to you.
Tuesday 22nd March 2011
Toddington Fire Station, Dunstable Road, Toddington, Beds. LU5 6DR 7pm - 9pm
Meeting will be chaired by Councillor Tom Nicols, Central Bedfordshire Council.
There's no need to book, just drop in when you can. For the first half of the meeting public service providers will be on hand to answer your questions. In the second half of the meeting we will set the local community safety priorities for the area together.
Volunteer for Nominated Neighbour Scheme!
Police in Central Bedfordshire are looking for people to act as a 'Nominated Neighbour' for elderly or vulnerable people living near to them.
The scheme encourages elderly people not to open the door or talk to unfamiliar callers, but to keep the chain on and show them a bright yellow card.
The card instructs the caller to go to a Nominated Neighbour, who will then check their identity and return with them and supervise the visit.
The initiative is just one of many crime prevention initiatives police are spearheading as part of Operation Vision to drive down burglary.
Chief Inspector Neill Waring said: "People who are particularly vulnerable, may not have the confidence to deal robustly with callers. The public can help by keeping an eye on their elderly neighbours or by signing up to our Nominated Neighbour Scheme to help deal with unwanted or unexpected callers. Often members are relatives, friends, Neighbourhood Watch supporters or others with an interest in making their communities a safer place. Families can constantly help by reminding elderly relatives of the importance of using spy holes and door chains and never letting unfamiliar people through the door without ID - even if they claim to have a legitimate reason such as being a water board official or police officer."
Anyone who would like to become a Nominated Neighbour can contact their local crime reduction officer on 01582 471212 or email [email protected]
Anyone with information about a crime should call the main switchboard on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers (anonymously) on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Consultation registration form
Central Bedfordshire Council is compiling a Consultation Register. If you are interested in particular areas of CBC's work ie; Parks and Open Spaces, Public Transport, Transport Strategy, Countryside etc., you can register to receive information/consultation on your chosen areas as and when they arise.
The online registration form is available via the link below. Please click to sign up and list your interests.
The online Consultation Registration form: http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/surveys/ConRegistration/Form.htm
Best wishes,
Stephen Halton
Senior Project Officer (Ecology & Community)
Countryside Access Team
Central Bedfordshire Council
2011 Census - What do I need to do?
The next Census will take place on 27th March 2011. Every household in England and Wales needs to complete a questionnaire so that statistics about the population can be produced.
Government money for health, police, councils and other public service providers is allocated according to the population of an area, so it is vital that everyone is counted. Make sure your area gets its fair share of Government money.
Questionnaires will be delivered from 7th March so look out for the purple logo, and complete and return the form as soon as you can.
Who needs to be included on the form?
Everyone who lives at your address. This includes family, newborn babies, lodgers, and students who live somewhere else during term time. People who are staying in the country for 3 months or more must be included. The number of visitors staying overnight on 27th March can also be included.
Why should I take part?
All citizens have a duty to complete the census questionnaire.
Businesses and local services need to know how many people live in their area, and other important information about your gender, age, ethnicity and about your housing. This ensures that the right services are available in the right place. It is also a legal requirement, and refusal to complete the questionnaire may result in prosecution and a fine.
How do I complete my questionnaire?
You can choose whether to complete the questionnaire on-line or by hand.Every questionnaire has a unique code to enable completion at www.census.gov.uk. The questionnaire pack contains a prepaid return envelope if you prefer to post it back.
The questionnaire has enough room for six people. It takes only 10 minutes for each adult, and much less for each child. If you have more than 6 people in your household, request additional individual questionnaires from the website or telephone 0300 0201 101.
I don't have a computer, but I want to complete on-line
No problem. You can use the computers at public libraries, or you can visit one of the completion events that are taking place at various locations in your area. Check with your local council where and when these are happening. Some events are shown below.
I need help or someone I know needs help to complete the questionnaire?
There is lots of help available. From 4th March you can telephone 0300 0201 101 to request guidance in over 50 languages and in accessible formats such as large print, Braille and British Sign language. You can also request a personal visit from a Census Collector who will come to your home. The number for text relay for hard of hearing is 18001 0300 0201 160. Many community groups are holding events to help local people complete their questionnaires. Check the location, dates and times with your local council. The Census website contains lots of information about the Census at www.census.gov.uk
What happens if I don't return my questionnaire?
From 6th April Census Collectors will visit households that have not returned their questionnaire. They will carry identification and will offer help and assistance, or answer your questions about the census questionnaire. To avoid a Census Collector knocking on your door, just return your questionnaire promptly after 27th March.
People who refuse to complete a census questionnaire will be investigated, and this may lead to prosecution and a fine.
Useful information
Information about the census, and census events in your area can be found on the Central Bedfordshire website.
You can also contact the Census Area Manager, Jan Esson on 07801 331386 or email [email protected]
Census questionnaire completion events
If you need help, want to ask questions, or want to complete your census questionnaire on-line, please come along to one of the completion events. Check the local council website for the latest information.
These are the events arranged so far:
- Monday 28th March at Kempston Library 11am to 4pm
- Wednesday 30th March at Bedford Learning Centre, 88 High Street, Bedford 10am to 2pm
- Saturday 2nd April at Bedford Learning Centre 9am to 1pm
- Monday 4th April at Sandy Library 10am to 3pm
- Wednesday 6th April at Bedford Learning Centre 10am to 2pm
- Saturday 9th April at Bedford Learning Centre 9am to 1pm
- Monday 11th April at Putnoe Library 2pm to 5pm
- Wednesday 20th April at Putnoe Library 2pm to 5pm
REMEMBER TO BRING ALONG YOUR CENSUS QUESTIONNAIRE
Burglaries in Greenways and Wallace Drive
A Burglary took place in Greenways, in Eaton Bray, on Thursday the 13th of January, between 4:30 and 4:40 p.m.
The offender has gained access to the side of the house, entering through a door that had been left unlocked. A purse was taken from the kitchen. The owner was in the house at the time and saw a shadow in the hallway. The owner has called out, causing 3 males to run from the house. The purse has since been found near to the house.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,1,7,8,0,/2011.
A Burglary took place in Wallace Drive, on Thursday the 20th of January, between 5:00 and 5:10 a.m.
The offender has forced open the front door. A handbag has has been taken.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,7,5,1,/2011.
Other ways to get in touch
- Text your message to (07786) 200011
- Email your message to [email protected] Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.
Many Burglaries can be prevented
- Keep doors and windows locked at all times.
- Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.
- Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.
- Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.
- Be a good Neighbour.
- Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.
- Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Thames Valley Police - Community Messaging
Watch members are continuing to report cold calls from a company, telling them that their computer is at risk, asking them to turn it on immediately, so that the caller can 'fix' the problem for them, for a fee.
Trading standard's advice is:-
- Do not deal with cold callers.
- Never give personal information over the telephone to cold callers.
- Never give passwords or credit cards and bank details over the telephone to unknown callers.
A resident had two calls yesterday from a security company, claiming to be doing a NHW survey and offering security systems for £1. When the resident identified themself as being a NHW co-ordinator the caller quickly made their excuses and terminated the call.
Any alarm or security systems at such a low cost may well have a heavy monthly monitoring fee and large cancellation costs.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - January 2011
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 10th January 2011
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 7th February 2011, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
17 Years Imprisonment for South Beds Burglars
Four men who committed a series of burglaries between August 2009 and January 2010 across South Bedfordshire were sentenced at Luton Crown Court yesterday (January 13).
To read more please see the Bedfordshire Police court report.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Your guide to organising a street party or fete
Foreword by Eric Pickles
Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government
Street parties and fetes are a traditional part of community life; they are a simple way for us to get to know our neighbours and meet members of our community. We want to make it easier for you to hold these sorts of local events, without having to plough through mountains of forms and red tape. So we have produced this simple step by step guide to how to hold a community event in your local area. It includes one simple form for you to use to let your local authority know about your plans, so you can get on with the real work of organising a fun event.
Good luck.
What sort of events does this apply to?
This is about the sort of street parties and fetes that groups of residents get together to arrange for their neighbours. The main differences between a small street party and fetes and larger public events are listed below:
Street parties and fetes:
- For residents/neighbours only
- Publicity only to residents
- No licences normally necessary if music incidental and no selling is involved
- No formal risk assessment needed
- Self-organised
Larger public events:
- Anyone can attend
- External publicity (such as in newspapers)
- Licence usually needed
- Insurance needed
- Risk assessment common
- Professional/skilled organisers
Organising small, private street parties and fetes is very simple and generally does not include activities that need a licence, such as selling alcohol or providing certain types of entertainment. If you want to have a pay bar or intend to provide entertainment to the wider public, or charge to raise money for your event, you will need a Temporary Event Notice which is a type of temporary licence and costs £21. Similarly, larger public events attracting more people will require a different process. If you need a Temporary Events Notice or would like to hold a larger public event, please contact your council for further information and advice.
It's that simple
If you would like to hold a street party or fete, you can use the form available here to let your council know about your plans. Alternatively you could go to your council's website to see if they have their own form.
The number one tip for holding a party is to plan early, think about what you want to achieve and get in touch with your council at least 4-6 weeks in advance. A good first point of contact will be your council's events or communities team.
More helpful tips, advice and support for organising a successful event can be found on the Streets Alive website www.streetparty.org.uk and The Big Lunch website www.thebiglunch.com. Do check them out, they're great.
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Theft of Vehicle License Plates
The registration plates were removed from a vehicle in Moor End, in Eaton Bray, between 11:30 p.m. on the 10th and 9:30 a.m. on the 11th of January.
The vehicle was a Silver, 51 registered, BMW.
No attempt was made to enter the vehicle.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to improve the security of registration plates by 1 of the following methods:
- Replacing the plates with Anti Tamper plates.
- Replacing the existing screws with non return screws.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,1,4,2,2,/2011.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected]
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Neighbourhood Watch In Central Bedfordshire
What Does Neighbourhood Watch Do?
Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) is one of the most effective crime reduction schemes ever devised. It is all about neighbourhoods getting together and having a positive impact on crime in their area. Each street (i.e. any small and defined area), is covered by a Street (Scheme) Coordinator and each area by an Area Coordinator. NHW schemes are community run initiatives which are supported by the Police, but are not run by them.
The effectiveness of each scheme depends on the efforts and enthusiasm of its members. The number and types of activities run within a scheme are decided by the members.
At a basic level being a NHW member means being aware of what is going on in the local area, taking simple crime reduction precautions to prevent and reduce crime, e.g. displaying NHW signs in windows and in the street, being alert to anything suspicious in the area and reporting it to the right authority.
A more active scheme might wish to organise events to raise security awareness and to carry out specific training.
What Makes a Scheme a Success?
Enthusiasm and commitment are critical. The more effort members put into their scheme the more effective and successful it will be. Therefore NHW supports people in the development of safer communities by:
- Helping them have a personal influence on crime reduction
- Improving the quality of life in their neighbourhood by making people feel safer in their own homes and making their homes feel safer from theft and damage, and thus:
- Raising community confidence by reducing the fear of crime, by:
- Enhancing community spirit
- Raising community confidence by reducing the fear of crime, by:
Neighbourhood Watch Organisation
The Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) organisation in Central Bedfordshire is by Areas and Streets and is linked closely with the Police Inspector Led Neighbourhood Areas (ILNAs) and the Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNTs). The SNT is the key point of contact with the Police.
Street and Area Coordinators
The coordinator is the most important member of any scheme as it is his/her responsibility to manage its activities and make it as effective as possible. For continuity there should also be a deputy. The more people involved the better, as long as the involvement is managed and coordinated. The coordinator is there to help, so a tactful approach is always essential. The aim is always neighbourhood cooperation.
NHW and the Local Community
As a key element in the voluntary sector NHW has close links with the Police and Community Safety Partnerships. It would be invaluable to us, in seeking to extend NHW coverage in Central Bedfordshire, if we could call upon your support. The level of support is of course yours to decide and, as a Parish Councillor myself, I recognise the current financial restrictions. However, any practical help you could provide, such as venues for meetings and the distribution of NHW information, would be very welcome. Even if that level of support is not possible could you, perhaps, provide us with a platform, through your scheduled Council meetings, to promote NHW in your area? I am sure that the members of our Committee would be very happy to brief your Council on NHW and help in any way we can to widen NHW coverage and enhance community safety.
Tony Howells
Chairman Central Bedfordshire NHW
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Traditional Orchards survey
Can you help us find out more about Bedfordshire's traditional orchards?
Traditional orchards are a much loved part of our British heritage and countryside. Once they were a common sight, however, over the last 50 years they have declined by almost 60% due to neglect, intensification of agriculture and pressure from land development.
The orchards that remain are home to a host of local varieties of fruit and are also havens for wildlife - bees and other insects pollinating the flowers in spring, lichens flourishing on the bark and birds and insects finding shelter in the decaying wood of old trees.
The People's Trust for Endangered Species is carrying out a nationwide project to compile an inventory of the traditional orchards that still exist. Roughly 240 probable traditional orchards have been identified from aerial photos of Bedfordshire and PTES is now hoping that local volunteers and orchard owners will help them verify these findings by a conducting a simple field survey.
The Bedfordshire & Luton Orchard Group is helping to co-ordinate the survey so if you would like to get involved, please contact Sue Raven on [email protected]
Please help us find out what is left of Bedfordshire's traditional orchards before it's too late!
Many thanks,
Stephen Halton
Senior Project Officer
(Ecology & Community)
Countryside Access Team
Central Bedfordshire Council
Technology House
Ampthill Road
Bedford
MK42 9QQ
Waste Collections
All vehicles and crews are being used to their maximum capacity to catch up on missed collections from before Christmas. Please continue to leave missed your bin/bags out.
In the South residual (black bin) collections are up to date and recycling will be completed by the end of the week at the latest.
In the North food waste collections were up to date by 31st Dec. Recycling collections will be up to date by tomorrow and residual (black bin) collection will be completed by the end of the week.
It is inevitable that some collections missed two weeks ago will not have been completed by the next scheduled collection date, this week. We will be collecting any missed waste and recycling which has accumulated over the period ; in the North black bags left next to the bin and in the South, recycling presented in clear bags/orange bags (ideally) or bags clearly labelled 'RECYCLING'.
All clinical, bulky waste and weekly collections were prioritised and are up to date.
Angela Humphreys
Waste Operations
Burglary in The Nurseries, Eaton Bray
A Burglary took place in The Nurseries, in Eaton Bray, on Wednesday the 29th of December, between 1:00 and 6:40 p.m.
The offender has forced open the UPVC front door.
A search took place.
It is not yet known what property has been taken.
Many Burglaries can be prevented:-
- Keep doors and windows locked at all times.
- Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.
- Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.
- Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.
- Be a good Neighbour.
- Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.
- Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.
If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,5,3,6,9,6,/2010.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011.
or email your message to [email protected] Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111. Contact Ringmaster on (01234) 275288 or email [email protected]
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Waste Services - Next Week
We are catching up on missed collections from this week.
Next week (week commencing 27th) all scheduled collections will resume (pending no further weather issues).
Green waste is currently suspended (as advertised).
Curb side glass will be suspended in the South until week commencing 3rd January and there will be no additional recycling collections as planned in the South.
The guidance to customers is to leave normal scheduled bin out from next week onwards.
If they have missed a collection from this week ask the resident to please leave bin in safe position, but we may not get back until the bins next scheduled collection when it will be taken with side waste.
Regards
Waste Operations Team
Central Bedfordshire Council
Waste & Recycling Collections
We have been advised that all waste and recycling collections have resumed today. However, some roads are still very icy so we cannot guarantee all roads will be accessible.
We are monitoring the situation and will keep you all updated throughout the day.
Kind regards,
Gaspare Sciales
Technical Officer - Waste Operations
Central Bedfordshire Council
All Waste Collections Suspended
Unfortunately due to adverse weather conditions All Waste Collections have been suspended.
We are monitoring the situation and will keep you all update throughout the day.
Household Recycling Centres are still open, but due to the poor weather conditions we would not advise anyone to travel unless absolutely necessary.
Kind regards,
Gaspare Sciales
Technical Officer - Waste Operations
Central Bedfordshire Council
Garage and Shed Warning
Bedfordshire Police are urging residents to be on their guard following an upturn in garage, garden shed and out building break-ins.
Thieves often target outbuildings and the problem is due to residents not considering the value of the equipment stored in them. Lawnmowers, power tools and even quad bikes are targeted and not cheap to replace. Residents also need to be aware that their tools will be used against them. Burglars will take advantage of unlocked sheds or garages and use tools to break into their homes.
Leaving items such as ladders and tools in the garden also act as an invitation to opportunist thief who may use them to gain access to your home.
Crime Reduction Officer, PC John Shiels, said: “The risk of becoming a victim of theft remains low, by taking a few simple steps to you can deter offenders. Having an unsecure shed or garage, could mean the difference between your property being broken into or not. “Residents need to review their security, ensure side gates are locked, boundaries are in good order and shed and garages are secure. It is also a good idea to join Neighbourhood Watch, since it provides advice on all aspects of household, personal and vehicle security.”
Here are some tips to help keep the contents of your shed and garage safe:
- Don't leave your ladders or tools in your garden as a thief will use them to gain access to your home.
- Buy and remember to USE good quality locks, padbolts or hasp and staple with padlocks for garages and sheds.
- Make sure any side passages are fitted with strong gates which are fitted with secure bolts and padlocks.
- Check gates and fences for weak spots. A high back garden wall and a thorny hedge are two great deterrents.
- Do you need a window in a shed or could you board it up?
- Marking your property with your postcode is a cheap and easy way to make sure your property is returned to you should it be stolen.
- Alternatively paint your details on the equipment - this is more effective than invisible marking which can fade and could act as a deterrent.
Anyone with information on theft or burglary can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text to 07786 200011.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Postal Scam Warning
There have been reports nationally of tricksters placing cards through doors suggesting they were unable to deliver parcels and asking householders to contact a telephone number.
However, unknown to householders, they were being asked to make a premium rate call in a scam believed to originate in Belize.
Crime Reduction Officer Lara Curtayne said: "Any card put through a door should be queried if it is asking the householder to ring a number. The vast majority of legitimate delivery companies leave a card saying they will deliver again, or put a collection address."
Anyone with doubts about a delivery company should contact their local Trading Standards Department.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - November 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st November 2010
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 6th December 2010, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Parish Council Minutes - October 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th October 2010
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 1st November 2010, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Parish Council Minutes - September 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th September 2010
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 4th October 2010, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Fire Station Open Day Dunstable
Dunstable Community Fire Station Open Day on Sunday 19th September 2010, between 2:00pm and 4:00pm.
Children, parents and grandparents can get a close look at fantastic fire engines, talk to firefighters and get some tips which could save their lives in the future.
Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service Chief Paul Fuller says: "Our fire stations belong to the local community and we want people to come along and get to know their local firefighters.
"These Open Days are a great opportunity to learn more about how we as an organisation serve the public and for the public in turn to give us some vital feedback about what more we can do to help them.
"We now call these our COMMUNITY fire stations because we want organisations and groups to make use of the meeting rooms when they are not occupied by our own staff. So come along and have a great FREE day out."
A vital FREE service offered by the local fire service is Home Fire Safety Checks which can include the fitting of free smoke alarms. To book a visit contact (0800) 0435042.
For full addresses of fire stations go to www.bedsfire.com.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
The Community Right To Build
If you and your neighbours had the power to decide, how would you develop your community?
What homes would you build? Or perhaps your neighbourhood needs business premises, a community hall or a sports facility?
The Government is acting to remove the red tape and bureaucracy that hold you and your neighbours back from improving your local area to make it a thriving, vibrant place to live.
The Community Right to Build is part of the Government's drive to create the 'Big Society'.
It's only right that you make the decisions about how your local area should grow.
The Community Right to Build will
- Allow communities to get together and take forward developments for new homes, shops and facilities in their area.
- Allow a community organisation to go ahead with development without the need for an application for planning permission, if there is overwhelming community support for the development and minimum criteria are met.
But the Community Right to Build won't be used to expand the size of communities by more than 10 per cent over a 10 year period.
Contact us by 31 August 2010 at:
For details on the plans, visit:
How you can get involved
The details of how the Community Right to Build will work are being developed.
We want you to tell us how to get it right, and we want to know about your community development projects and ideas as well.
Source: NALC
Beware Distraction Burglars
Bedfordshire Police are warning elderly people to be on the look out for a pair of distraction burglars after three similar incidents in Dunstable, Barton-Le-Clay and Bedford.
On 31 July at around 11am in Chiltern Road, Dunstable, two offenders knocked on the door of the victim, an elderly blind man, and told him that a large tree in his garden needed cutting down. They asked him to go into the garden with them so they could describe the problems it is causing. While at the bottom of the garden one of the offenders has searched the house. The two men have then left saying they would return on another day to do the work. The victim has then discovered that cash, cheque book and documents had been stolen.
On 3 August at around 11am in Granville Street, Bedford, two men told the elderly victim that they would replace his loose guttering at the rear of his property. The victim has allowed the men into his house and shown them around. The men have left saying they will return in half an hour. When they have gone the victim has discovered money has been taken. In this case one of the men is described between 20-30 years old with fair hair, wearing light coloured sleeveless top and light coloured trousers.
On the 7 August around 11am Dunstall Road, Barton Le Clay offenders have attended the property and the victim has let the offenders in who have offered to cut the hedges. They have engaged the victim in conversation, and have removed money. The offenders have left in a small grey car. One offender was described as male; around 5 foot 7 inches tall, white, around 35 years old, fat, and had a local accent.
PC Ron Callender, investigating, said: “People should be wary of people calling at their homes offered to do work for them at low prices. They should not let strangers into their homes or leave them unattended. If anyone has any information about these burglaries or has suffered a similar theft they can contact me or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Follow this advice to protect yourself against distraction burglaries:
- Always ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in - if you are worried, ask them to wait outside while you close the door and call their company.
- If someone keeps you talking on the doorstep, be aware of any movement or activity in the rest of the house - before you answer the door, you should check all back doors, patio doors and windows are close and preferably locked.
- Mark all your valuables with your house number and postcode - contact your Crime Reduction Team for more information.
- Never keep a large amount of money in the house - keep in the bank or post office.
- Don't keep your chequebook and cards in the same place - a thief could use the card to forge your signature on cheques.
- Don't fall for anything that sounds too good to be true - a free holiday, cash prizes, cures for arthritis or cancer, or low-risk high-return investment schemes.
- Don't buy goods or services from doorstep callers and NEVER let them into your home.
If you have any information about these crimes or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to [email protected]
Thank you for your support.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Childcare Sufficiency Assessment
Central Bedfordshire Council is currently conducting the statutory Childcare Sufficiency Assessment. On the Central Bedfordshire website, under quick links, questionnaires can be found in which parents, employers and childcare providers are asked to give their opinions on Childcare in their area.
From this we hope to identify any gaps in the childcare market and any areas of improvement. We have been publicising the assessment through various outlets such as children's centres, doctor's surgeries and libraries as well as at events such as the River and Canal Festivals.
If you require further information please do not hesitate to contact me.
Catherine Lydon
Project Officer for Childcare Sufficiency and Poverty Needs Assessments
Tel. 0300 300 5732
Central Bedfordshire Council
The Council Offices, High Street North
Dunstable, Beds. LU6 1LF
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 4th August 2010
Strong support for new Leighton Hospital
Central Bedfordshire Council is backing a proposal that could see a community hospital opening in Leighton Buzzard.
On Friday members of the Central Bedfordshire and Luton Joint Planning Committee gave their backing to a revised core strategy for Luton and the south of Central Bedfordshire, including the towns of Dunstable, Houghton Regis and Leighton Linslade.
The draft strategy includes proposals for a total of 15,000 new homes in the Southern Bedfordshire area between 2011 and 2026, and the creation of more than 28,000 jobs across the area.
The proposed development would fall into the category of sustainable development and as such new health facilities would need to be incorporated into any plans to cater for the community.
The hospital idea has been promoted by Leighton Linslade Town Council and could be situated on land to the east of Leighton Buzzard as part of developments which would see 2,500 new houses built as part of the East Leighton Buzzard Masterplan for the town.
Although there is no clear definition of what a community hospital is, the Department of Health's set out detailed design principles which bids for new community hospitals should satisfy. These stated that services should:
- be locally led;
- provide high quality services;
- re-design patient pathways;
- anticipate future needs as the population changes;
- adopt new technologies;
- plan across primary and secondary care;
- be affordable for the whole health economy;
- promote integrated service solutions;
- engage and harness the potential of staff;
- enable the transition of staff; and
- engage the public, the whole health and social care system and be innovative.
The decision about whether a community hospital will be developed lies with NHS Bedfordshire although a recent white paper on health means that more decision making on a local level will be made by GPs. A local 'health and wellbeing board' is also set to be established to ensure a co-ordination of services between the Primary Care Trust and GPs.
Cllr Tricia Turner MBE, Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council said: "The council is working closely with a wide range of community interests in Leighton Buzzard, including the PCT, to promote better primary care in the town.
"We are actively engaged with the Town Council in developing the Town Centre Masterplan that we hope will reveal options for sites to be considered by the community.
"Central Bedfordshire Council continues to support the delivery of the identified need for improved primary care to be provided to meet the needs for new infrastructure and facilities in Leighton Buzzard as part of delivering sustainable growth.
"Leighton Buzzard is one of the largest towns not to have a community hospital and following the decision of the Central Bedfordshire and Luton Joint Planning Committee to endorse a revised core strategy for Luton and the south of Central Bedfordshire, I believe it is important that residents and future residents of the town receive this important facility."
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 29th July 2010
Chiltern/Northfields Ward Forum meeting
This is an invitation to attend the Ward Forum for the Chiltern and Northfields safer neighbourhood team.
The meeting will take place at the Dunstable Community Fire Station, on Thursday 24th June, at 6.00 p.m.
Please come along and meet the Partners that are working to improve your area.
The keys priorities for the area will be set at this meeting.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Op Meteor Continues Clamp Down on Riders
Police continue to clamp down on dangerous and anti social riders. The operation to target the illegal use of off road bikes and nuisance vehicles will continue throughout the summer.
Members of the Dunstable, Houghton Regis and Leighton Buzzard Safer Neighbourhood Teams have been out and about clamping down on nuisance motorcycles.
Officers recently carried out another Operation Meteor initiative and found themselves issuing 8 section 59 notices, a fixed penalty notice for driving elsewhere than on a road and seizing an off road bike.
Police warn that Operation Meteor will continue in Dunstable, Houghton Regis, Sundon, Barton, Caddington, Totternhoe, Leighton Buzzard ... together with other areas of Bedfordshire, to ensure those off road bikers who upset local residents and put themselves, families, walkers and horse riders at risk by using local footpaths and bridleways are stopped.
Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant, Darren Turney, said: “Members of the community can help by continuing to report any incidents they witness to the police.
“We will continue to use all resources at our disposal to apprehend people involved in this type of anti-social behaviour. If people are going to break the law, we will take action. People who continue to use their bikes illegally will see it seized and possibly destroyed.”
Anyone who knows who the offenders are can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text 07786 200011.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Ridesafe Assessments For Motorcyclists
Invitation to all Motorcyclists
You are invited to get your riding assessed for FREE with a Bedfordshire Police Advanced Motorcyclist to get expert and impartial feedback on what you do well and where you may be able to could improve your skills.
This is part of the Bedfordshire and Luton Casualty Reduction Partnership's 'Motorcycle Training Matters' initiative to reduce the casualty toll amongst motorcyclist. One in four serious injury road traffic collisions involves a motorcyclist. Some are due to rider error, and some are due to other road users' errors. In either case, we believe that better, defensive riding skills will help reduce motorcyclists' risk of being involved in a collision.
Find out more or book a place by visiting www.MotorcyclingMatters.org/RideSafe/.
RideSafe dates:
- Kempston 20th June
- Luton 4th July
- Kempston 8th August
- Kempston 3rd October
Caryl Jones
Communications Manager
Bedfordshire and Luton Casualty Reduction Partnership
PO Box 412
Bedford
telephone: 01234 716335
www.DriveSafely.org
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Temporary Road Closure - Special Event, Eaton Bray
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COUNCIL
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 16
(HIGH STREET / THE ORCHARDS / TOTTERNHOE ROAD / NORTHALL ROAD / BOWER LANE / MOOR END, EATON BRAY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2010
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Central Bedfordshire Council intend not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order the effect of which will be to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along the total length of High Street / The Orchards / Totternhoe Road / Northall Road / Bower Lane / Moor End, Eaton Bray.
These temporary closures are required to facilitate the holding of the Eaton Bray Village Carnival and Parade and shall apply to such extent as may from time to time be indicated by the appropriate traffic signs. Where possible access will be maintained to property and premises but may be restricted from time to time according to local signing.
The Order will be operative for ONE DAY on
Saturday 3 July 2010 between 10:00pm and 3:00pm.
The alternative routes available for vehicles affected by the proposed Order are:-
Proceed on Bower Lane to the roundabout with the B489 Icknield Way. Take the third exit and continue on Icknield Way to the roundabout with the A4146 Leighton Road, Eddlesborough. Take the third exit and continue on Leighton Road to the junction with Stanbridge Road, Billington. Turn right and continue on Stanbridge Road to the junction with The Rye, Eaton Bray. Turn right and continue on The Rye to the junction with Totternhoe Road and site and vice versa.
The proposed Order will come into operation on 3 July 2010 for a period of one day.
For further information please contact Heidi Head - Eaton Bray Parish Council, Tel: 01525 222601
DATED 16 June 2010
Basil Jackson
Assistant Director for Highways
Central Bedfordshire Council
PO Box 1395
Bedford MK42 5AN
Source: Central Bedfordshire Council
Parish Council Minutes - June 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 7th June 2010
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 5th July 2010, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Department of Health Advice during a Heatwave
The document Looking After Yourself and Others During Hot Weather provides information on the symptoms of the effects of heat, what actions to take and top tips for keeping cool.
Source: Voluntary and Community Action
Parish Council Minutes - May 2010
Highlights from May's parish council meetings held on 10th & 11th May 2010, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes are now available from the Parish Council website.
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th June 2010 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - April 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 12th April 2010
The next Parish Council meetings will be:
- Annual Parish Meeting: Monday 10th May 2010, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
- Annual Parish Council Meeting: Tuesday 11th May 2010, 7.30pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Eaton Bray Skatepark Opening and Competitions
Date
Saturday 24th April 2010
Time
Official opening ceremony at 11am. The ribbon will be cut by Chris North, the local BMX rider that sent in the original letter to the Parish Council asking for a skatepark.
Competitions will start at 12:30pm. There will be BMX and Skateboard categories split into age groups. You can register for the competition here or before 12 noon at the Parish Council stall on the day. Entry to the competition is £1, to help towards the cost of a music license. Go to the Parish Council stall to sign in for the competition and pay.
Stalls
There will be a small number of stalls offering various different things.
Eaton Bray Parish Council will have a stall with a display about how the Skatepark project progressed from start to finish. The councillors will be happy to offer advice to anyone who is looking to get a skatepark built.
The police will have a mobile facility and will be doing security making for bikes. Wheelscape, the company that built the skatepark will be present with more info about skateparks, they will also bring pro skaters who will do demonstrations throughout the day.
Janes, a local cycle shop, will be selling a range of equipment. Iron Saints, a local skate clothing brand will also have a stall selling T-Shirts.
A local scout group will be running a BBQ, selling burgers, bacon buttys etc.
There will also be a DJ providing music for the competition.
Parking
There is very limited parking at the Rec, so it would be advisable to leave the car and walk/cycle to the skatepark. There is no parking in School Lane, but weather permitting, there will be extra parking on the Rec itself.
Update: Video from the event:
Parish Council Minutes - March 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st March 2010
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 12th April 2010 at 7.30pm.
Central Bedfordshire Council Computer Problems
Central Bedfordshire Council is continuing to restore its IT systems after a major failure overnight on Monday affected many of its routine applications. It is now unlikely many systems will be restored until the middle of next week.
There is some early good news though - staff have managed to ensure that payments that were due to our benefits customers next week will now be made only a day late. Revenues and benefits and ICT staff found a “quick fix” which enabled them to access the necessary database and make these much needed payments. This included calling staff on leave for their assistance - including contacting one enjoying herself at Centre Parcs!
However other payments such as those to businesses and customers of adult social care may be delayed while systems are being restored. If receiving an adult social care payment would cause a customer difficulties they should contact 0300 300 6383.
At present Central Bedfordshire's website remains offline but a temporary site has been set up to keep local people informed of progress on restoring services. This can be accessed at: www.centralbedfordshire.wordpress.com.
Telephone lines into the council's contact centre are also limited and customers should either call staff directly if they have a direct dial number or call the contact centre only in an emergency.
Email has now been restored but a queue of over 25,000 emails, stored since Tuesday, is now being dealt with and the service is intermittent. Customers are asked to call rather than email if at all possible.
Cllr Maurice Jones, Corporate Resources Portfolio Holder, said: “Our main priority is to ensure that our financial systems are restored so that customers, businesses and carers receive the payments they are expecting. Our benefits fix means that some of the most vulnerable people in our community will now get their benefits and rent paid only a day late.
“We are taking this problem very seriously but I want to stress that our IT system has been put together in line with nationally accepted best practice and to have such a major failure is a one in a million event. This is a hardware failure and has not been caused by a computer virus and no personal data has been under threat.”
Central Bedfordshire has set up an online blog to keep the public informed of developments www.centralbedfordshire.wordpress.com.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 19th February 2010
Central Bedfordshire Offline
Update 11.25am: Central Bedfordshire Council has invoked its business continuity plan to ensure it continues providing services to local people following a major IT problem which occurred overnight on Monday, 15 February 2010.
This does mean the council will be operating a restricted service over the phone until early next week and that its website is currently unavailable. Central Bedfordshire Council has an established business continuity plan which has been put into action to restore its IT services, minimise risk to the public and ensure services continue to be delivered.
Overnight Monday the council's IT system experienced a problem which has affected many of its routine applications. We have been working on the issue since then, and will continue to rebuild systems over the coming days.
Local people are being advised not to contact the council by email at all as these cannot currently be opened and only by phone in an emergency until early next week.
Cllr Maurice Jones
Cllr Maurice Jones, Corporate Resources Portfolio Holder, said: “Even though our IT systems are based on nationally recognised best practice, problems can still occur. This is a one in a million problem. This has reduced our ability to service calls through our customer contact centre, stopped us receiving emails and means our website is unavailable. Can I assure people that we are working all hours to get the systems restored and we have a well crafted business continuity plan in place to continue services and protect vulnerable people in these situations.
“It will help us if people could only call us in an emergency until early next week and please note we will not be able to respond to emails at this time.
“We will keep people informed through the local media about developments.”
Update 2.00pm: Central Bedfordshire Council is still experiencing major IT problems so has invoked its business continuity plan to ensure it continues providing services to local people.
As part of this, www.centralbedfordshire.wordpress.com has been created so residents and partners can see key information updates, important emergency numbers and useful websites.
This facility also enables you to sign up to email alerts so you can be notified when new updates have been added on.
We are still advising people not to contact the council by email at all at the moment as these cannot currently be opened and only by phone, on 0300 300 8000, in an emergency until early next week.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 17th February 2010
Parish Council Minutes - February 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st February 2010
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st March 2010 at 7.30pm.
Gritting and salt stock update: Thursday 14 January
Although there have been no more snow flurries, Highways crews were out gritting last night to prepare the roads for this morning's rush hour. We still have just under 600 tonnes in stock - roughly enough for eight more days of gritting just the A and B roads, as Government is still restricting our salt deliveries due to the national demand for salt.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "Although Highway crews will be out clearing footways in town centres and areas outside of schools we would like to remind local road users that Central Bedfordshire Council has a number of salt bins available for the public to use. These can be found at known trouble spots such as sharp bends, steep hills and junctions which are on roads that are not covered by the 'priority one' salting network. However, if any member of the public would like to request a bin for an area they believe is particularly bad, then please put requests all through the Highways Helpdesk (0300 300 8049). Teams will need to decide each case on an individual basis, taking in to account whether it is a priority for pedestrians in that area."
"Our crews continue to monitor the forecast and gritting the network on key routes to help keep traffic moving. I would like to reassure road users that Central Bedfordshire Council is doing everything it can to help keep traffic flowing on key routes."
Further gritting updates will be issued throughout the day.
Please visit our website homepage www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for further updates on all services which have been affected by the snow.
Visit www.highways.gov.uk for further travel information on major routes and motorways.
Visit the met office for the latest forecast at www.themetoffice.org.uk.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 14th January 2010
Gritting and salt stock update: Wednesday 13 January
Highways crews were out gritting from 4am this morning, Wednesday 13 January, as more snow has fallen throughout the night. Although we received a delivery yesterday, and have around 600 tonnes in stock - roughly enough for up to 18 more runs, we are still only able to grit just A and B roads as Government continues to restrict our salt deliveries.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "As more snow has fallen throughout the night, and continues to fall his morning, our Highways crews have been out gritting A and B roads to prepare for this morning's rush hour. Crews will also be out today refilling salt bins, clearing footways in town centres and areas outside of schools.
"Our crews are still working day and night monitoring the forecast and gritting the network on key routes to help keep traffic moving. I would like to reassure road users that Central Bedfordshire Council is doing everything it can to help keep traffic flowing on key routes."
Further gritting updates will be issued throughout the day.
Please visit our website homepage www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for further updates on all services which have been affected by the snow.
Visit www.highways.gov.uk for further travel information on major routes and motorways.
Visit the met office for the latest forecast at www.themetoffice.org.uk.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 13th January 2010
Waste Collection update: Tuesday 12 January
Central Bedfordshire Council's waste team's are continuing to clear the backlog of waste that built up during the bad weather last week.
Crews have been collecting from homes in priority order, collecting waste from those that have been waiting the longest first. Although most major roads are running smoothly, and the snow is slowly disappearing, some side roads are still icy so crews will have to assess each situation and collect where ever they possibly can.
Last week Central Bedfordshire Council was forced to suspend all waste collections from Wednesday. The nature of this type of work involves crews stopping and starting and reversing around small residential areas, which means it has been just too dangerous to dispatch our crews on such compacted snow and ice.
Residents are advised to keep both their black bins and recycling waste out and we will collect it as soon as we can. Unfortunately we won't be in a position to collect garden waste this week.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "Our waste crews have been very frustrated at not being able to collect waste as normal, but due to heavy snowfall and freezing conditions, we had to think about both the safety of our residents, children playing in the snow and our crews. Now conditions are improving, we are pleased to be in a situation where we are able to catch up on some of the backlog and return services.
Daily information on services affected by the snow and ice will be updated on our Central Bedfordshire Council's website so visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 12th January 2010
Gritting and salt stock update: Monday 12 January
Government still continues to nationally monitor salt supplies and manage which areas are of the highest priority to receive salt deliveries first in the UK, so we are still being forced to only grit A and B roads in Central Bedfordshire.
As the snow gradually starts to clear our Highways crews continue to be on standby in the event of more snow flurries, and were out gritting yesterday on A and B roads. Highways Teams are closely monitoring the forecast and still conserving salt stocks, as although we received a delivery of 200 tonnes yesterday, we still only have around 500 tonnes in stock, enough for six more days worth of gritting just on the A and B roads.
Councillor David McVicar, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "As the snow starts to melt road conditions have improved but drivers still need to take extra care on some of the minor roads where it is still icy. Our crews are on standby and monitoring the forecast closely and yesterday were out spot gritting problem areas, refilling salt bins, and clearing areas outside of schools." "Our crews are still working day and night to help keep traffic moving on all major roads, and I would like to reassure road users that Central Bedfordshire Council is doing everything it can to help keep traffic flowing on key routes."
Further gritting updates will be issued throughout the day.
Please visit our website homepage www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for further updates on all services which have been affected by the snow.
Visit www.highways.gov.uk for further travel information on major routes and motorways.
Visit the met office for the latest forecast at www.themetoffice.org.uk.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 12th January 2010
Waste Collection update: Monday 11 January
As the weather conditions have improved over the weekend, Central Bedfordshire Council's waste team is pleased to report that waste collections across Central Bedfordshire are being carried out today, Monday 11 January.
Crews will start by collecting from households who were expecting collections last Wednesday, and although most major roads are running smoothly, some side roads are still icy so crews will have to assess each situation and collect where ever they possibly can.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said "We are pleased to be in a situation where we can at least start by catching up on some of the backlog but obviously we have not only last week to catch up on, but some collections which were missed due to snow prior to Christmas, so it could be a couple of weeks until we are fully operating as normal.
"We appreciate this will cause inconvenience for residents but pleased be assured we will do everything we can to catch up on the backlog. We are advising residents to keep both their black bins and recycling waste out and we will collect it as soon as we can. Unfortunately we won't be in a position to collect garden waste this week.
Last week we were forced to suspend all waste collections from Wednesday due to heavy snowfall and freezing conditions, and we therefore had to think about both the safety of our residents, children playing in the snow and our crews . The nature of this type of work involves crews stopping and starting and reversing around small residential areas, which means it has been just too dangerous to dispatch our crews on such compacted snow and ice.
Daily information on services affected by the snow and ice will be updated on our Central Bedfordshire Council's website so visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 11th January 2010
Gritting and Salt Stock Update: Sunday 10 January
Government still continues to nationally monitor salt supplies and manage which areas are of the highest priority to receive salt deliveries first, so we are still being forced to carry out reduced gritting runs and only able to salt A and B roads in Central Bedfordshire.
With more snow flurries expected today, Sunday 10 January, our Highways team will continue to monitor the forecast, and dispatch crews to grit all A and B roads when necessary. Spot gritting will be carried out on badly affected areas on the A and B network throughout the day.
Yesterday, Saturday 9 January, our Highways crews carried out a gritting runs on all A and B roads at around 7:00am and 4:00pm, with spot gritting carried out at during the day in badly affected areas.
We still only have approximately 360 tonnes of salt in stock, which is roughly enough for 7/8 more runs, and although we received a delivery yesterday of around 60 tonnes, we still need to conserve our salt stock and carry out a reduced gritting run, focussing on just the A and B network.
Councillor David McVicar, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: " As we enter a new week it still looks likely that the cold weather is set to continue and with more snow flurries forecast today, Sunday 10 January, we still need to closely monitor salt stocks. Our Highways crews carried out two full gritting runs on all A and B roads yesterday, Saturday 9 January, and spot gritting on badly affected areas, and will be carrying out runs on A and B roads during today. Our crews are still working round the clock to help keep traffic moving on all major roads, and I would like to reassure road users that Central Bedfordshire Council is doing everything it can to help keep traffic flowing on key routes.
"With Government still monitoring all national salt supplies we are still forced to only grit the A and B roads. Throughout the last week we have also been attending badly affected areas in town centres and replenishing salt bins but people really do need to take extra care on the roads and footways over the weekend and please follow our safety advice for when driving in snow, fog and ice."
Further gritting updates will be issued throughout the weekend.
Please visit our website homepage www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for further updates on all services which have been affected by the snow.
Visit www.highways.gov.uk for further travel information on major routes and motorways.
Visit the met office for the latest forecast at www.themetoffice.org.uk.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 10th January 2010
Parish Council Minutes - January 2010
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th January 2010
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st February 2010 at 7.30pm.
Waste Collection update: Friday 8 January
Due to the continuing freezing temperatures and with more snow forecast over the weekend Central Bedfordshire Council's waste team are still being forced to suspend all waste and recycling bin collections in both the North and South of Central Bedfordshire.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said "Regrettably we are being forced to suspend all waste collection services again today, 8 January, and it is unlikely we will be able to go out as planned tomorrow to start catching up on the backlog. Other neighbouring authorities are also having to suspend collections, and we are advising residents who have not had their bins collected, to leave them out until we are able to catch up when the weather improves.
"We understand that this will cause inconvenience to residents, especially coupled with the disruptions to collections prior to Christmas, but we have to think about both the safety of our crews and residents and in these conditions we just cannot operate any waste collections. The nature of this type of work involves crews stopping and starting and reversing around small residential areas, which means it is just too dangerous to dispatch our crews on such compacted snow and ice. We can assure residents we will do everything we can to catch up on collections."
All Central Bedfordshire Household Recycling Centres are currently open as normal:
Ampthill
Abbey Lane
Off Oliver Street
MK45 2SA
Tel: (01525) 403611
Biggleswade
Bells Brook
SG18 0NA
Tel: (01767) 313684
Dunstable
Frenchs Avenue
LU6 1BH
Tel: (01582 609212)
Leighton Buzzard
Shenley Hill
LU7 3BT
Tel: (01525) 371619
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 8th January 2010
Gritting and Salt Stock Update: Friday 8 January
As it has been confirmed that Government is nationally monitoring salt suppliers and managing which areas are of the highest priority to receive salt deliveries first, we are still on reduced gritting runs and are currently only able to salt the A and B roads.
Due to the continuing icy conditions and with more snow forecast for the weekend, Bedfordshire Highways today, 8 January, will continue to carry out 'spot gritting' on badly affected areas on A and B roads, and crews will also be manually treating footways and pedestrian areas in town centres.
Although we sent five lorries to our supplier to collect salt at the beginning of the week and also received four salt deliveries from our suppliers on Wednesday, we are still forced to reduce our gritting runs to just A and B roads, due to a national demand for salt. We currently have approximately 400 tonnes of salt in stock which is enough for around roughly nine more runs on the A and B network.
With such a huge demand for salt throughout the country we are unsure when any of our 3000 tonnes, which is currently on order, will be delivered, so we are monitoring both our salt stocks and the weather forecast closely throughout the next few days, and we hope a normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "We appreciate road conditions are going to continue to worsen as the icy conditions, the coldest spell in 15 years, is set to continue. I would like to reassure road users that Bedfordshire Highways crews are working round the clock to ensure they can keep traffic moving as much as possible on the network, but regrettably have been forced to limit gritting runs to just A and B roads.
"Nationally there is a demand in salt so our neighbouring authorities are also in a similar situation. We will be attending badly affected areas with our gritters, and manually salting pedestrian areas in town centres and replenishing salt bins as much as possible. People really do need to take extra care on the roads and footways over the weekend and please follow our safety advice for when driving in snow, fog and ice."
Further gritting information will be issued throughout the day.
Please visit our website homepage www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for further updates on all services which have been affected by the snow.
Visit www.highways.gov.uk for further travel information on major routes and motorways.
Visit the met office for the latest forecast at www.themetoffice.org.uk.
Safe driving information for motorists:
Advice around gritters:
- Advice states to take care around gritters
- Don't be tempted to overtake
- Slow down
- It can take 10 times longer to stop in snowy or icy conditions, so allow extra room
- Winter Gritting is a 24 hour operation.
Check your vehicles for:
- Correct tyre tread depths and pressures. Don't forget the spare!
- Lights that are working and are clean
- The correct level of antifreeze. A garage can check this for you
- Wiper blades that are in good condition
- A windscreen washer bottle that contains an additive to prevent freezing
- A battery that is in good condition. Winter driving will make extra demands on your battery
Before driving off:
- Check the weather conditions both for your outward journey and any return
- Plan your route and leave in plenty of time. Even consider whether your journey is essential
Remember:
- Speed kills. Do not travel too fast. Cut your speed in possible icy conditions.
- It is far safer to travel a little further on a salted road than to use untreated roads
- Keep your distance - it takes much longer to stop in ice and snow than normal conditions
- Try to anticipate the actions of other drivers
- Avoid harsh acceleration, steering or braking
- Keep in as high as gear as possible
- Allow more time for your journey
- Consider whether your journey is necessary
And finally...
- It is down to the road user to drive according to the prevailing conditions
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 8th January 2010
School Closure Update: 08 January 2010
Central Bedfordshire Council's School Support Team have now been informed that 22 schools are closed across the area today.
Eaton Bray Lower School is currently Open.
School Transport to all the closed schools has also been cancelled.
Full details of which schools are open and closed can be found at: www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/snow.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 8th January 2010
Waste Collection Update: Thursday 7 January
Due to freezing temperatures throughout the night Central Bedfordshire Council's waste team are still being forced to suspend all waste and recycling bin collections in both the North and South of Central Bedfordshire.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said "Regrettably we are being forced to suspend all waste collection services again today (7 January) so we are advising residents who have not had their bins collected, to leave them out until we are able to catch up when the weather improves.
"We understand that this will cause inconvenience to residents, especially coupled with the disruptions to collections prior to Christmas, but the safety of both our crews and residents is paramount. The nature of this type of work involves crews to stop start and reverse around small residential areas which means it is just too dangerous to dispatch our crews on such compacted snow and ice.
"We can assure residents we will do everything we can to catch up on collections, and under these circumstances we will use Saturdays for collections as well as week days in order to sort out the backlog."
Please visit our website www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk on all the latest news on waste collection services throughout the next few days.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 7th January 2010
Waste Collection Update: Wednesday 6 January
Due to heavy snowfall throughout the night and more forecast today (Wednesday 6 January) Central Bedfordshire Council's waste team has had to suspend all waste and recycling bin collections in both the North and South of Central Bedfordshire.
Councillor David McVicar, Central Bedfordshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said "Regrettably we have to suspend all waste collection services today (6 January) so we are advising residents who have not had their bins collected, to leave them out until we are able to catch up when the weather improves. Under these circumstances we will use Saturdays for collections as well as week days in order to catch up. We must make sure we can access all households safely before we dispatch our crews as safety of both our crews and members of the public is paramount. At the moment it is really too dangerous to operate waste collection vehicles on compacted snow and ice. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused and will be monitoring the situation closely."
Please visit our website www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk on all the latest news on waste collection services throughout the next few days.
Source: Central Bedfordshire News Release, 6th January 2010
Parish Council Minutes - December 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 7th December 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 4th January 2010 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - November 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd November 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th December 2009 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - October 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th October 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd November 2009 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - September 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 7th September 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 5th October 2009 at 7.30pm.
Ladybird roof will be spotted after go-ahead for extension
A planned new classroom and library area at Eaton Bray Lower School has been given the thumbs up.
The extension, which is needed to cope with an increase in the number of pupils, was given the go-ahead at a meeting on Central Bedfordshire Council's development management committee on Wednesday.
The increase has been linked to the success of the school's new nursery building. The roof design of the extension is based on a ladybird symbol widely associated with books and children's learning and would be constructed from moulded glass fibre and reinforced plastics, domed and coloured red with black spots.
The parish council said they had no objections to the extension in principle but considered the design "architecturally inappropriate".
For the latest news from Eaton Bray and beyond, get the Dunstable Gazette every Wednesday and make a daily date with Dunstable Today.
Source: Dunstable Gazette, 12 August 2009
Notice of Visit by Andrew Selous MP
NOTICE OF VISIT BY
ANDREW SELOUS MP
17th September 2009, 11:30am-12noon
At The Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray
Andrew Selous MP would like to meet as many constituents as possible.
Parish Council Minutes - July 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th July 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th September 2009 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - June 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st June 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 6th July 2009 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - May 2009
Highlights from May's parish council meetings held on 6th May 2009, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes are now available from the Parish Council website.
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st June 2009 at 7.30pm.
Police Coffee Morning / Surgery
The Police will be holding two Coffee Morning / Surgery events in the area where everyone is welcome to go along to discuss Problems & Grievances and get General Advice including about Crime Prevention.
The events will be held as follows:
- Wednesday 20th May 2009, 10.00 - 13.00
The Coffee Tavern, Eaton Bray - Friday 22nd May 2009, 10.00 - 13.00
The Memorial Hall, Totternhoe
Full details are available in poster form in the Neighbourhood Policing section.
In case you can't attend one, the police are happy to talk to Eaton Bray residents at the Totternhoe surgery as well as at the Eaton Bray surgery.
Annual Parish & Parish Council Meetings
This is an update to the previous annual meeting dates and times.
Both meetings will now be held on Wednesday 6th May 2009 at The Coffee Tavern.
- The Annual Parish meeting will start at 7.00pm, and will be followed by
- Tthe Annual Parish Council meeting starting at 7.30pm.
Update 28 April:
The agendas for both meetings are now available from the Eaton Bray Parish Council website.
Parish Council Minutes - April 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th April 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st June 2009 at 7.30pm.
During May, there will be the Annual Parish meeting held on Wednesday 6th May 2009 at 7.00pm, and followed by the Annual Parish Council meeting at 7.30pm. Both of these meetings will be held at The Coffee Tavern.
Parish Council Minutes - March 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd March 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 6th April 2009 at 7.30pm.
Proposed Skate & Ride Area
The proposed Skate & Ride Area section of the Parish Council website has been updated to include answers to various questions posed by parishioners, along with details of the location of the proposed skatepark.
If you have any comments regarding the proposals,
then please contact the Parish Council Clerk.
You can also have your say on the Parish Council Forum.
Parish Council Minutes - February 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd February 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd March 2009 at 7.30pm. Items for the March agenda to be requested no later than Tuesday 17th February 2009.
Recycle Now, January 2009
Thanks to your help, the recycling rate across Bedfordshire has increased from 5% in 2000/01 to 40% in 2008/09. We have some way to go to reach our next target of 50% recycling by 2011 but we know that with so many dedicated recyclers we can all make a difference by recycling more and more often. Together we can do it!
To help, we are pleased to announce that we are now adding more items to the recycling collection scheme. Starting on the 12th January 2009 residents in Bedfordshire will be able to add the new items to their existing collection (see below). You won't have to separate the recycling or do anything other than add these new items to your current collection bin or bag.
Source: Bedfordshire County Council
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
To ALL Residents of Eaton Bray Parish (all age groups),
EATON BRAY PARISH COUNCIL hereby invite you to attend a Public Meeting to find out local opinion on installing a Skatepark & Youth Meeting Point at School Lane Recreation Ground.
The meeting is to take place on Thursday 12th February 2009 at The Coffee Tavern from 7:30pm.
WHATEVER YOUR AGE WE VALUE YOUR OPINION
Reader Comments: To have your say via the website, see the Skatepark & Youth Meeting Point topic on the Parish Council Forum.
Parish Council Minutes - January 2009
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th January 2009
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd February 2009 at 7.30pm. Items for the February agenda to be requested no later than Tuesday 20th January 2009.
Parish Council Business Matters
Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI) the Parish Council is required to routinely and proactively provide information to the public.
These documents have been made available via a new Business Matters section on the Eaton Bray Parish Council website - www.ebpc.co.uk.
For further information about these documents, or if you have other questions regarding Eaton Bray Parish Council and its responsibilities, please contact the Parish Council Clerk.
Parish Council Minutes - December 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st December 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 5th January 2009 at 7.30pm. Items for the December agenda to be requested no later than Tuesday 23rd December 2008.
Parish Council Minutes - November 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd November 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st December 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the December agenda to be requested no later than Wednesday 19th November 2008.
Parish Council Minutes - October 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th October 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 3rd November 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the November agenda to be requested no later than Wednesday 22nd October 2008.
Treats for Troops
Eaton Bray Parish Council is supporting the Dunstable Branch of the "Royal Air Forces Association" led by Rita and Reg Hedgecock, and we ask if you the parishioners could also do your bit to help.
All you need to do is get a box (shoebox size) and fill it with items that would be of use to our serving service service men/women. As Cllr Rick Brand, Warrant Officer (Retired) RAF. ATC said, "Anything that you can put into your box [suggestions below] will be very much appreciated by our servicemen/women, and will bring some small amount of comfort to their lives. You do not have any idea how much an Andrex Toilet Roll means when serving in a location such as Afghanistan, or a Razor, soap etc. And please remember to write a short note or a card to say who you are, and your location back home, so these guys can at least thank you."
Suggested donated items: Andrex Toilet Roll, Small Packs of Biscuits, Any small toiletries (Razors, Sachets of Shampoo, Face Flannels, Sachets of After Shave etc), Chewing Gum, Raisins, Peanuts, Lightweight Paper Backs, Lightweight Puzzle Books, Biro Type Pens, Oxo Cubes, Sachets of soup, Sachets of Flavoured Hot Drinks (Chocolate, Maltesers, Galaxy etc), Dominoes, Small Travel Games, Wind up Radios/Torches, Disposable Cameras.....
"Remember, it is the things we take for granted that shows them we really care"
Please return your completed box (not sealed) to: Mrs Head, Parish Clerk, 20 Good Intent, Edlesborough, Dunstable, Beds, LU6 2RD.
Thank you for your support.
Source: Focus, October 2008
Parish Council Minutes - September 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st Septemer 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 6th October 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the October agenda to be requested no later than Thursday 25th September 2008.
Parish Council Minutes - July 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 14th July 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st September 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the September agenda to be requested no later than Thursday 21st August 2008.
Parish Council Minutes - June 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd June 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 14th July 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the July agenda to be requested no later than Thursday 3rd July 2008.
Parish Council Minutes - May 2008
Minutes of Annual Parish Meeting: Tuesday 6th May 2008
Minutes of Annual Parish Council Meeting: Wednesday 7th May 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd June 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the June agenda to be requested no later than Thursday 22 May 2008.
Parish Council Minutes - March 2008
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd March 2008
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th April 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the April agenda to be requested no later than Thursday 27 March 2008.
Concillor Vacancy
Eaton Bray Parish Council has a vacancy for a Parish Councillor.
To be eligible for co-option onto the Council you will need to be an elector over 21 years of age and have lived or worked within 3 miles of Eaton Bray for at least 12 months.
If you are interested in serving your community on the Parish Council please write to:
Clerk to Eaton Bray Parish Council, 8 Station Road, Stanbridge, Beds LU7 9JF or email [email protected]
Please see Become a Parish Councillor for more details.
Parish Council Minutes - December 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd December 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 7th January 2008 at 7.30pm. Items for the January agenda to be requested no later than Friday 21 December 2007.
Judge awards £20,000 to libelled neighbours
A bitter row about a radio antenna has shattered the peace in a quiet cul-de-sac and left a family of four facing a hefty court bill.
Last Monday a parish councillor was awarded "significant" damages after a judge decided his neighbours had launched an unnecessary personal attack during a planning dispute.
Recorder Lance Ashworth QC ruled that Cllr Ric Brand, of Mill End Close, Eaton Bray, had been unfairly victimised by neighbours Paul and Sandra Dear when he applied to put the amateur radio equipment up in his back garden.
A letter sent by the Dears to other homes in the road made a number of personal allegations which the judge said were "designed deliberately to damage Mr Brand in the eyes of others."
It is believed the libel ruling cost Mr and Mrs Dear around £10,000 in damages and another £10,000 in court costs.
After the ruling Mr Brand said he plans to give a large chunk of the money to charity.
The 61-year-old parish councillor added last week: "I sincerely wish it hadn't happened, I didn't want this.
"It really has been a most horrible time for us, but obviously you can't allow somebody just to assassinate someone's character.
"There's nothing I've got to hide, so it's a pretty sorry state of affairs. It's a situation where this guy and his wife have just turned on us."
The problems started last year when Mr Brand, an amateur radio enthusiast, applied for permission to put the antenna up.
He said he had discussed the plans with the Dears and was willing to be as accommodating as possible.
But his neighbours objected and sent copies of their objection letter to South Beds District Council and other homes in Mill End Close.
When Mr Brand was shown a copy of their letter, he said he suffered a mini-stroke.
"It was absolutely horrendous. It completely deviated away from the actual planning issue," he said.
This week Coventry County Court heard that the letter made allegations about how Mr Brand had become a councillor, and alleged that he was a "pill popper" because he takes prescribed medication.
Under cross examination Mr Dear accepted that this was "a pretty personal attack," and conceded that the aim was to injure Mr Brand in the eyes of others.
Awarding aggravated damages, the judge said: "Having considered the conduct of the Dears, Mr Brand is entitled to feel that the Dears' conduct has exascerbated the injury."
Mr Ashworth said that Mr Dear had shown genuine remorse for what he had done.
After the ruling, Mr Brand said: "At the beginning when this all kicked off, had the Dears come to me when my solicitors first contacted them and said: 'Sorry, it was out of order and we went over the top', I would have said: 'Fine'."
He said he had withdrawn legal action against another neighbour when an apology was forthcoming.
And the councillor added: "At no time did I ever use my authority as a parish councillor either for my personal gain or to solicit help when the application went before the district council.
"The parish council doesn't have the authority to pass planning applications; all they do is look at it and advise the district council."
When the application was presented to the district council, it was given the go-ahead.
But yesterday Mrs Dear said her family had objected to the radio mast plan on health grounds, and claimed many of the comments in the letter had been misinterpreted.
She also claimed that the couple had sent a retraction letter, which had not been accepted.
"Now we're worried about where we're going to get the money from.
"He didn't have to do what he did; he could just have turned round and had a meeting," she said.
But despite the tension caused, Mr Brand said: "I don't bear anybody any malice. I'm not that sort of person.
"I'm not going to start throwing my toys out of the pram. That's it as far as I'm concerned.
"They can get on with their lives and we'll get on with our lives. It didn't give me any pleasure, in fact it's pretty tragic.
"I'm just hoping that this can be an end to it all and we can resume our daily lives."
Source: Dave Burke, Leighton Buzzard Observer, 4 December 2007
Huge bill as councillor sues for libel
A bitter row about a radio antenna has shattered the peace in this quiet cul-de-sac in Eaton Bray, and left a family of four facing a hefty court bill.
On Monday a parish councillor was awarded "significant" damages after a judge decided his neighbours had launched an unnecessary personal attack during a planning dispute.
Recorder Lance Ashworth QC ruled that Councillor Ric Brand, of Mill End Close, had been unfairly victimisedby neighbours Paul and Sandra Dear when he applied to put the amateur radio equipment up in his back garden.
A letter sent by the Dears to other homes on the road made a number of personal allegations which the judge said were "designed deliberately to damage Mr Brand in the eyes of others."
It is believed the ruling cost Mr and Mrs Dear around £10,000 in damages and another £10,000 in court costs.
After the ruling Mr Brand said he plans to give a large chunk of the money to charity.
The 61-year-old parish councillor added yesterday: "I sincerely wish it hadn't happened, I didn't want this.
"It really has been a most horrible time for us, but obviously you can't allow somebody just to assassinate someone's character.
"There's nothing I've got to hide, so it's a pretty sorry state of affairs. It's a situation where this guy and his wife have just turned on us."
Source: Dunstable Today
Parish Council Minutes - November 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Tuesday 6th November 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 3rd December 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - October 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 1st October 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Tuesday 6th November 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - September 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd September 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 1st October 2007 at 7.30pm.
Eaton Bray and Edlesborough Flooding
Some of you will know to your cost that several homes in the district were completely or partially flooded on 28th May, Bank Holiday Monday. Many others only narrowly escaped. People who have lived here for decades have seen similar problems over the years but perhaps not so severe as the 2007 flood.
The situation was reported to Eaton Bray Parish Council meeting and the local MP. A small group have come together to inform and lobby the authorities concerned who may be able to take action to help prevent this from happening again.
If you would like to know more please contact Sue Detre.
Source: Focus, July 2007
Parish Council Minutes - July 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd July 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 3rd September 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - June 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th June 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 2nd July 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - April 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd April 2007
The Annual Parish meeting is to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Tuesday 8th May 2007 at 7.30pm.
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Wednesday 9th May 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - March 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th March 2007
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 2nd April 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - February 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th February 2007
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 5th March 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - January 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 8th January 2007
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 5th February 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Agenda - January 2007
Download Agenda for 8th January 2007
--Parish Council Clerk
Parish Council Minutes - December 2006
A summary of this month's meeting, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th December 2006
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 8th January 2007 at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Minutes - November 2006
A summary of this month's meeting, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 6th November 2006
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 4th December at 7.30pm.
Parish council's view is likely to be overruled
Outline plans to develop land next to 23-25 Bower Lane, Eaton Bray, look likely to ge the go-ahead, despite objections from the parish council and some neighbours.
Objections include that the proposed development would have a detrimental effect on nearby homes and would lead to unacceptable and dangerous kerbside parking.
The scheme is set to be considered at a meeting of South Beds District Council's planning committee tomorrow (Wednesday 11th) when councillors are expected to be influenced by a planning officer's report recommending approval.
This advises: "It is not considered that the development of an overgrown parcel of land would result in the loss of open space of recreational or amenity value and it is considered that the site is capable of accommodating a residential development in a manner that would be an efficient use of land, would respect and enhance the character of the surrounding area and would preserve and provide adequate amenity for residents."
Source: Leighton Buzzard Observer, 10 October 2006
Parish Council Minutes - October 2006
A summary of this month's meeting, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd October 2006
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 6th November at 7.30pm.
Parish Council Agenda - October 2006
Download Agenda for 2nd October 2006
--Parish Council Clerk
Source: Eaton Bray Parish Council
Byelaw Changes - September 2006
Eaton Bray Parish Council hereby give notice of the following proposed changes to the byelaws in respect of pleasure grounds, public walks and open spaces of Eaton Bray, Bedfordshire.
These proposals to be advertised for a period of twelve weeks prior to submission to the Department for Enviroment and Rural Affairs.
Any representation regarding these proposals should be addressed to: The Parish Clerk, 8 Gardners Close, Dunstable, Beds. LU6 2AJ
For details of the changes, please see:
Parish Council Minutes - September 2006
A summary of this month's meeting, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 4th September 2006
The next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 2nd October.
Parish Council Minutes - July 2006
A summary of this month's meeting, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 3rd July 2006
There is no meeting during August, so the next parish council meeting will take place on Monday 4th September.
Parish Council Minutes - June 2006
A summary of this month's meeting, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 5th June 2006
Public Meets the Parish Council
In response to the village folk who visited us on April 8th we can advise on the following subjects.
Traffic Calming
We are holding an open public evening on July 6th at 7.30pm in the Coffee Tavern.
Parking Wallace Drive
Advice sought from Bedfordshire Highways.
Water Mains
Now repaired.
Nuisance Youths
Police (from the end of May) now have the authority to move these people on. If you have a problem please call PC Neville Johnson on 01582 473 418 or 077 6817 7719.
Hedges
To be investigated
Source: Focus, June 2006
Parish Council Minutes - May 2006
A summary of this month's meetings, along with a downloadable copy of the full minutes is now available from the Parish Council website.
Minutes of Annual Parish Meeting: Monday 8th May 2006
Minutes of Annual Parish Council Meeting: Tuesday 9th May 2006
Leisurely Land Deal
Eaton Bray is in the money, thanks to a land deal.
May Oates, 84, gave almost half an acre of land in the High Street to the parish council, "for the good of the village".
The council has agreed to sell the land to builders in a £70,000 deal. The cash will be used for recreation purposes, and invested to help offset future rate rises.
Source: Dunstable Gazette, 29 March 1984
Clerk's golden goodbye
Clerk Edryd Evans had been given a £100 "golden goodbye" after retiring as parish clerk for Eaton Bray. But he would continue as clerk for Kensworth, Studham, Whipsnade and Chalgrave parish councils, and for Houghton Regis Town Council.
Source: Dunstable Gazette, 30 June 1983