In the last 12 months has lost one councillor and gained 3 new councillors, meaning we have maintained a full council since September.
We have also seen building works proceeding on both the Chapel End and Bedford Road developments in the village. As a Parish Council we did all we could to object to these developments outside the village envelope, but unfortunately, we were unsuccessful. We understand it is particularly destressing for those living next to building sites, and the wet weather hasn’t helped ease the situation. Many of us remember the disruption that was caused during the building of the Ridge View development, when the High Street was shut for days.
The new villagers who moved into these homes have become an integral part of village life, and now walking past it’s hard to imagine it used to be an empty meadow.We hope these new developments will be completed with as little disruption as possible, and will bring new residents who want to get involved and be a part of our village community.
Play Area – the imposing and overgrown hedge running alongside the play area has been cut back and lowered to a more easily maintained height. Some of the existing play equipment has been repaired and repainted, and several safety surfaces replaced.
Sports Field – The football pitches are still being used by a local team Houghton Conquest FC, who play on a Sunday. A new bin has been installed near to the skate park, and the proposed location of a MUGA (Multi Use Games Area), as part of the 106 agreement for the Chapel End development, has been agreed.
Art Project – as well as the provision of a MUGA, the 106 agreement for Chapel End also allocated money for a village art project. This is taking the form of one central village sign and several notice boards in various locations around the village. Works on the project continue and details can be viewed in the village hall.
Allotments–Later in the spring there will be a working group organised to clear unused plots of inappropriate/unwanted items. A recent inspection by the water company has led to the removal of some pipework that does not meet regulations, but there is still a tap available for allotment holders use. Some growers have worked their plots for many years and produce a great crop to show for their hard work. Small or large plots are available for rent. Although the Parish Council must make provision for allotments, it is not responsible for organising allotment groups or associations – this is down to the plot holders themselves, should they wish to do so.
Speedwatch – The Parish Council have made several attempts to get together sufficient volunteers for a speedwatch group. If you have concerns regarding the speed of vehicles driving through the village and want to assist in providing evidence then please get in-touch, so that we can do something about it.
Covanta – The Parish Council has objected to the Covanta waste incinerator proposals since they first appeared in 2009. Despite the concerted efforts of local groups and residents the environment agency recently approved Covanta’s permit to operate the plant.
Grants – Over the last 12 months the Parish Council has given several grants, including £3000 to the Village Hall Committee for flooring refurbishment and 3 smaller grants to the Church Committee for various village events.Each year
the Parish Council sets aside a small amount of money for grants which Village Groups can apply for.
On behalf of the Parish Council I would like to thank to our litter picker George Maxted who can often be seen clearing litter in areas well beyond the High Street, Sports Field and Play Areasthat he is asked pick. George takes great pride in keeping the village litter free and we are very grateful. I’d also like to thank our Clerk Gill Wiggs, on behalf of the Parish Council, but also personally from me as Chairman for always being there with procedural advice when required.
Finally, I would like to thank the Parish Councillors and our Unitary Councillor for all the hard work they have put in behind the scenes over the past 12 months.
Lisa Frangiamore
Chairman, Houghton Conquest Parish Council