Thursday, 20 March 2014

Village News

with Margaret Morbey

Parish Council Meeting Monday March 17
This Parish Council meeting was to discuss the proposed planning application for 10 houses at Stoney Furlong, Chilton Road on land adjoining the Cricket Ground. This is application number 14/00581/APP/ and can be viewed on Aylesbury Vale Website. Over 50 villagers attended to voice mixed opinions in agreement and against the proposals. Objections to the proposal to build 10 houses were that this would be in conflict with the recent Village Plan which supported 10 new homes over 20 years, that the site was beyond the village boundary, the sewerage system would be unable to cope, medical, school, transport and other services are already fully stretched, the fear that this development would lead to other large sites being developed, although reassurances were given that every proposal is judged on its own merits and a precedent would not necessarily be set, and access and visibility on an already busy road was poor.
There was support for the proposals – the new houses would bring more support to the pub, shop, church and other village facilities, each unit would attract a large financial contribution from the developer to AVDC to go towards education, leisure and transport, the detailed plans provide for a mix of houses, including affordable housing for shared ownership or rent by Chearsley people. The council were mindful that they had a duty of care and responsibility to the village and should be consistent in their views. They had concerns about sustainability, strain on the sewage system, schools and doctors and the setting of a precedent for future development. The proposal that the scheme should not have the backing of the Parish council was agreed on a majority verdict.

Mother’s Day meal at The Bell – The Bell is offering either a 2 or 3 course special Mother’s Day menu on Sunday 30 from 12 until 3. Please phone Sharon at The Bell on 01844 208077 to book a table. Places are limited, so don’t delay and be disappointed.

No Chocolate until Easter - Sharon and Sarah at The Bell have given up eating chocolate for Lent and would welcome sponsors to raise money towards funding the Oli Bell in Chearsley church.

Bingo - April 1 It’s no joke. There will be the monthly Bingo at The Bell on Tuesday April 1 at 8.30pm. Everyone is welcome for a fun evening for cash prizes. Bingo players can enjoy a meal for a special price of £7.50.

Local Taxi - Did you know we have Peter of Church Lane who has started a taxi service, Bernwode Cars at The Hundred? He is available for airport runs as well as local journeys. Peter would be particularly delighted to taxi you to The Hundred of Ashendon, where his daughter, Pia with Matt offer a village pub with top quality food. Peter can be contacted on 07936 532579 or 01844 220002.

Bucks Open Studios - The annual event of Bucks Open Studios will take place from June 7 to June 22. This year will be the 29th year when a wonderful opportunity is available for anyone to visit and view the work of a wide variety of local artists. Over 500 painters, glass workers, basket weavers, metal workers, wood turners, jewellery makers, book makers, print makers, silk makers will be opening their studios to the public, free of charge, to showcase their talent through demonstrations, exhibitions and workshops. Directories with details of all the participants will be available from libraries, tourist centres and art galleries from May. The website at www.bucksopenstudios.org.uk also gives of list of participants and venues and dates when the studios are open. Very locally, there are several venues in Cuddington and Haddenham.

Mix 96 Tour de Vale Bike Ride - this fund raising event, now in its 11th year raising funds for WheelPower takes place on Sunday June 8 when bike riders can choose from 1 of 3 routes of 15 miles, 35 miles or 55 miles (the challenging one) through Bucks countryside starting and finishing at Stoke Mandeville stadium. WheelPower is based at Stoke Mandeville and helps disabled children and adults improve their lives through sport. Last year, over 1,500 riders helped raised £34,000 from this event. Entry is £12.50 for adults, children under 16, who must be accompanied by an adult go free. On the day, entry is £25. If you would like to take part, please ring WheelPower on 01296 395995 or download an entry form from their website www.tourdevale.com


Diary Dates –
  • Saturday March 29 - help Alicia make the posies for Mothering Sunday from 1.00pm at Great Barn. Donations of small flowers are very welcome
  • Sunday March 30 Mothering Sunday Service at 10.00am with posies and simnel cake
  • Sunday March 30 Mothering Sunday lunches at The Bell 12 until 3.00pm
  • Tuesday April 1 Bingo at The Bell at 8.30pm