Where in the world?

Had a great meeting this evening regarding the Wrecclesham Village Design Statement. We made a great start on next steps. And decided to call ourselves the "Wrecclesham Village Design Group" ! Surprise, surprise!

We're going to look at 3 key things over the next month or so:

1. Mapping - what constitutes the boundaries of Wrecclesham village?
2. Conservation Area - how should the Wrecclesham Conservation Area Appraisal guide and influence our work?
3. History - discover and build on the history of Wrecclesham in our understanding of design for the future.

If you'd still like to be involved, please do let me know, as we have space for all comers, and would be so pleased with any help.

In the meantime, a quiz for you. Can you identify where in Wrecclesham these photos were taken (all taken this evening)?

Birds. Plural. Still.

... even though a 2 year old made best efforts to dispatch one of our chickens with his flying shoe!

All in all, it's a been a great day otherwise, with lovely local white and rose wine in the garden, rounding off a barbeque of sausages and home-made beefburgers.

Birds. Plural. Just.

During my frequent visit to the new Waverley website today, I spotted the top news story for the environment:

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Was this another outbreak?! My concern level grew somewhat. Then I noticed that it was more of an update on the situation, than a warning of impending doom. Phew.

But, it did get my mind wandering. If one were to trust the media to reflect accurately the intensity, impact, and immediacy of any particular news story, one would have to assume that Bird Flu now has only a place in history rather than the present. Sadly, it's not the case. However, I happen to think that it's excellent that Waverley's site deals with information about issues that continue to be issues, long after the daily rags have grown bored.

As an aside, one of the two chickens we have in our garden is looking decidedly under the weather. We may soon be the owner of 'a chicken' rather than many.

I'll keep all (five) of you posted.

The Jackson F... Two, so far

Just over a week ago I popped down to the Wrecclesham Community Centre on Greenfields Road to meet Fiona Jackson for the first time. A long-term resident of Wrecclesham, Fiona has started up a youth club on a Monday night at the centre, and what success! 27 the first week, 33 the next, and already the need is confirmed, and new need for more leaders is created. It's wonderful for the centre to be used in this way, and the more leaders that offer help, the less that each one has to do on a rota basis. The two leaders at present could do with lots more help!

Fiona has many years experience and can offer the support and guidance needed. She does point out that a 'sense of humour and a laid back approach' are required! And, you'll need to undergo a CRB check as any volunteers would be working with children.

If you're interested in helping, please let me know, and I'll put you in touch with Fiona.

The youth club has been started as part of the Weydon and Wrecclesham Community Consultation (aka W2). Click here for more information.

Planning Applications 7th May 2008

(Click here if you want to go the Waverley planning search page, and select 'Ward' from the left hand list of options)

WA/2008/0798: 14/04/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of a replacement dwelling following demolition of existing dwelling. Merrythough, 30 Gardeners Hill Road, Farnham.
E: 483846 N: 143327
Case Officer: Major Sites & Implementation Team

Applicant & Agent: A Down, Archplan, 30 Cholmeley Crescent, Highgate, London N6 5HA
--
WA/2008/0820: 15/04/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of extensions and alterations following demolition of existing extension and garage. 2 Laburnum Cottages, Shortfield Common Road, Frensham.
E: 484282 N: 142249
Case Officer: Neighbourhood Team

Applicant: Mr & Mrs I Lavigne, 2 Laburnum Cottages, Shortfield Common Road, Frensham, Surrey GU10 3BJ

Agent: L Brooks, Brooks & Ware Architects LLP, 54 Tilford Road, Farnham, Surey GU9 8DW

Welcome to Waverley - Home of...?

I received an email today eerily similar to the letters page of the Telegraph, where readers have been amusing each other by recalling town signs of the bizarre and unintentionally hilarious.

Well, today, the email I'm referring to asked for councillors' opinions on what the signs that welcome drivers to Waverley might say. There's currently around 50 of them sited on the borders of our borough, and what with Wrecclesham and Rowledge nudging Hampshire, we happen to have one of our own to consider.

All answers on a postcard to...

Planning Appeal Decision

Appeal Ref: APP/R3650/A/08/2061216
Land at the rear of Viners Mead and Colemans, Wrecclesham Road,
Farnham, Surrey GU10 4PT
• The appeal is made under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990
against a failure to give notice within the prescribed period of a decision on an
application for planning permission.
• The appeal is made by Heronsbrook Homes Ltd against Waverley Borough Council.
• The application Ref WA/2007/2192, is dated 19 September 2007.
• The development proposed is the erection of five x 3-bed two-storey terraced houses
and four x 2-bed flats in a two-storey block with associated car parking and cycle and
refuse stores, following the demolition of a greenhouse and garden shed.

Decision
1. I dismiss the appeal and refuse planning permission for the erection of five x 3-bed
two-storey terraced houses and four x 2-bed flats in a two-storey block with associated
car parking and cycle and refuse stores, following the demolition of a greenhouse and
garden shed.

Click here to go to the Planning Inspectorate website, and here for this appeal summary, from where you can access the full documented appeal.

Backbenchers, Revolt! Or Win Nothing (aka The Man Called B.R.O.W.N.)

Simply put, when speaking with Andrew Marr this morning, our Prime Minister's regret at the Labour Party's poor showing in the elections last week was refreshing. However, my surprise and happiness was shortlived, as Mr. Brown continued on to say that he would 'fix the economy'.

FIX THE ECONOMY!! Isn't that what he was supposed to be doing for the past 10 years? In fact, shouldn't he really sack himself for messing it up so spectacularly by creating the conditions within which banks would lend with little restraint, thus building the gigantic (stupendous, horrendous, ridiculous) unsecured debt mountain which now threatens to crumble?

And then to presume that he knew what we (the people) wanted, and what messages we were sending... Didn't he know this beforehand? Why didn't he do anything about it then? Or was it the jaw-dropping, bottom-dropping-out, collapse of the Labour vote, that has made him think that he should do something? Or maybe I'm being cynical.

Holiday

Today was a true uninterrupted holiday. 90 minutes of fencing, followed by 90 minutes of coffee and cake outsided at our Farnham Pottery Coffee Shop, followed by the rest of the day finishing the fence. Bliss. Lovely air, hardly any rain, and in fact mostly sunshine, and a great family meal in the evening. Can't ask for more on a May Bank Holiday Saturday.

Helliday

Today's been a little holiday, erecting a new fence at home. However, it started off with a somewhat (understatement of the year) difficult conversation with a fellow councillor. I'm aware that it doesn't often appear that any kind of meaningful debate occurs in the main council meetings these days, but I assure you, we don't always see eye to eye!

Good? Bad? Powerless.

Heard some good news about Wrecclesham Road this morning courtesy of a neighbour. Surrey County Council have announced the various road repairs that will be taking place in the next two years.

On that list is Wrecclesham Road, from the roundabout on the A31, to 25 metres north of the railway bridge. [Click here and look near the bottom of page 6] However, I have a question in my mind that I'm going to follow-up: on the 31st March, an appeal was allowed against the decision to refuse planning permission for a scheme of "45 dwellings and 41 bedroom nursing home". The conditions placed on the appeal include the construction of proper access, including an island in the road, and revised pavements. It would be great if these works could be done collaboratively, and I'll ask David Munro (our local Surrey County Councillor and portfolio holder for highways) if there are plans for this.

I didn't support this planning application, and continue to worry about the detrimental effect it may have on the village, especially with regard to traffic. But, as the Highways Agency didn't object, the appeal inspector was fairly powerless to do anything on this basis.

Sorry, could you say that again?

I know, I know - it's Wednesday and you (all 4 of you) are looking forward to reading the planning applications submitted in the past week. Looking forward to reading about Mr Blogg's extension, the conservatory on the back of the victorian terrace next door, and the latest block of 64 'exclusive' (and I really don't understand how they can be exclusive when anyone can buy them) apartments where a lovely large family home with half an acre of garden presently sits.

But, there are none. That's right - zero, nil, love (if you play tennis) - none. And I did search twice just to make sure.

Talk the walk

I blogged about our MP's new YouTube site when he launched it, and have this week noted a new video about the pedestrianising of Farnham.

It's a very pertinent time for his comments, coming in the weeks leading up to the planning decision that's due on the latest East Street application. He points out the aspiration for pedestrianisation, but countered by the reality of traffic management, (not least right now, even prior to any increase due to extra homes and shopping!)

I'm completely in support of both an analysis, and a trial of redirection and pedestrianisation. This idea was referred to by a question from a member of the public early into the council meeting on 22nd April, and whilst I would have written parts of the letter differently, it nonetheless clearly highlighted this as a concern.

to help, to aid, to serve

Today I was reminded of the generosity of volunteers, by way of meeting with the organiser of Farnham Assist, a group of over 100 people giving their time to serve Farnham's Senior Citizens.

To hear someone speak passionately about the selfless giving of time in order to improve and enliven the lives of others is inspiring. I met initially to explore some ways of buliding on a model that Farnham Assist have pioneered in conjunction with CA Waverley, and ended receiving much more than I expected.

If you're looking for an opportunity to give your time and serve others, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Brian Kurton.

One Body

Visiting good friends in Cambridge this weekend, we attended their church this morning, and I was struck by the sermon on the symbolism of the 'body' used by the Apostle Paul to describe how church works best.

1 Corinthians 12 is where Paul symbolically describes the church as a body of inseparable members, and how each part, whilst honoured or respected to a lesser or greater degree, is nonetheless equally required in order for the body to work fully as one.

It struck me (without taking the analogy too far I hope), that the council could equally be considered one body of many members - each one performing its part, with some more responsible than others, but all equally required in order for the council to serve its purpose: to provide the residents of Waverley with the day-to-day facilites required.

O what a beautiful morning...

... O what a beautiful day.

Wow - it's a great morning - the air is clear, the sun is shining, the birds (and our chickens) are singing (or clucking), and members of the Farnham Local Food Initiative are sowing and planting for the very first time.

What a delightful day on which to do this, and I hope that everyone enjoys themselves immensely. Robert Simpson has done an amazing job pulling this together, and his enthusiasm and perseverance are infectiousness.

There's still time to join in. Visit their website for details, and be down there for 10 am this morning!

WWW

It could be that I'm a nerd (probably), or that I live and breathe Waverley (no, I have a better balance than that in life,) or maybe that I think making it easy for residents to communicate with the council, to find information, and to generally know what's going on, is a good thing for all (definitely).

Hence, a short to post to say what a great new website we have, and please visit.

Re: Structure

Some more movement at the top in Waverley. David January, long-standing director of Housing, is leaving Waverley in July, after 21 years service, and also Sheila Goodall, Housing Services Manager, after 18 years.

This gives the opportunity to create a new department of "Community Services". It's a title that's close to my heart, as I love the Community committee, where we debate and decide on matters relating to how our communities are served by what Waverley does, and in many ways, serves the most needy and vulnerable.

Great news within this, is that John Swanton will take responsiblity for the Housing Service within this new department - an experience and passionate leader, with an equally enthusiastic and able team.

RIP ...A

Last Saturday I posted about the Regulations of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, which grants to all local authorities in England and Wales, the use of covert intelligence gathering techniques, under specific constraints and provisions.

The Act was news to me, and so I wrote that I would find out whether Waverley has used these powers at all.

Yesterday I received a great explanatory email from a council solicitor, explaining the Act further, the constraints on its use, and attaching a policy document that Waverley adopted and now follows in its use of the Act. I don't have exact information on use, and this may not be possible due to the inherent nature of the activities undertaken within the provisions of the Act.

I'd encourage you to read the policy document, found our the council website, and let me know what you think.

Planning Applications 23rd April 2008

(Click here if you want to go the Waverley planning search page, and select 'Ward' from the left hand list of options)

TM/2008/0027: 03/04/2008

Proposed Development
Works to trees the subject of Tree Preservation Order Far15. 15 Hollis Wood Drive, Farnham.
E: 482312 N: 144368
Case Officer: Neighbourhood Team

Applicant & Agent: Mr & Mrs F P Whitlock, 15 Hollis Wood Drive, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4JT
--
WA/2008/0688: 28/03/2008

Proposed Development
Retention of a shed. Albion Cottage, 78 The Street, Wrecclesham.
E: 482503 N: 144867
Case Officer: Mr A Griffiths

Applicant & Agent: C S Robertson, Albion Cottages, 78 The Street, Wrecclesham, Surrey GU10 4QR
--
WA/2008/0698: 28/03/2008

Proposed Development
Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of 3 new detached dwellings with associated access, amenity space and car parking (revision of WA/2007/1717). Land at 22 Lickfolds Road, Rowledge.
E: 482229 N: 142915
Case Officer: Mr R Pearmain

Applicant: Bourne Homes Ltd, Langborough House, Beales Lane, Wrecclesham, Surrey GU10 4PY
Agent: O Oldroyd MRICS, 4 School Lane, Farnham, Surrey GU10 3PE

Superman might have a problem...

...as BT are proposing the removal of 47 payphones in Waverley!

It's understandable that for commercial reasons BT see the need to reduce the number of payphones that do not cover their own costs. However, I am of the belief that, similarly to Post Offices, the government has an obligation to ensure that essential services (and by consequence not necessarily ones that are used frequently), should be maintained and available to all.

So, to the nitty gritty: two of the payphones are in our villages (click the locations to go to map of where they are:

1. Applelands Close, Wrecclesham
2. The Square, Rowledge

I'm going to pop round and double-check these, but in the meantime, please, please email me with any comments about these payphones, and material reasons why they should retained.

The letter from BT to Waverley Borough Council, states that the consultation period closes on 2nd July. If you plan to write, make sure you include the phone number of the box you're referring to, and post to

FAO Rick Thompson, Project Liaison Office
BT Payphones, PP05A23, Delta Point, Wellesley Road, Croydon CR9 2YZ

or email btp.authorisation.team@bt.com

It's good to talk - and act!

As my wife reminds me - "I want actions, not just words!" And so I've eventually put a new list on the side bar of useful telephone numbers.

Actually, I was also prompted by a meeting I had in the council offices this morning, when I was given a little postcard with most of these numbers. Really handy, and just the kind of thing that I'd put on my fridge door.

You cannot be serious!

But I can - you really cannot believe how much post the average councillor gets. I'm a self-confessed geek, so you might be able to imagine that I'm all for getting everything electronically on my iPhone! It might the prevent the at least 500 sheets of paper I get through my door each month.

However, some things are nice printed, and I receive the Local Government Association magazine for councillors 'first' through the door each week. This time, the name of Bill Bryson on the cover caught my eye, and took me to an article about litter. Regular readers (all 3 of you), will note a couple of posts from me before about this, but today I'm extoling the virtues of "Stop The Drop" campaign by the Campaign for Rural England.

Do have a think about setting up a Community Clean-up where you live. Follow links to "Take Action" on the CPRE web pages, and you can see how easy it is.

Planning Appeal Decision

Appeal A - Ref: APP/R3650/E/07/2060130
24 & 26 Pottery Lane, Wrecclesham, Farnham GU10 4QJ
• This appeal is made under sections 20 and 74 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and
Conservation Areas) Act 1990 by Arcadia Ventures Southern Ltd and is against the
failure of Waverley Borough Council to determine within the prescribed period an
application for conservation area consent for the demolition of the existing buildings.
• The application [ref WA/2007/0706] is dated 7th March 2007.
Summary of decision: The appeal is allowed, subject to a condition, as set
out below in the Formal Decision

Appeal B - Ref: APP/R3650/A/07/2060131
24 & 26 Pottery Lane, Wrecclesham, Farnham GU10 4QJ
• This appeal is made under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 by
Arcadia Ventures Southern Ltd and is against the failure of Waverley Borough Council to
determine within the prescribed period a planning application for the demolition of the
existing buildings and the erection of 3 detached houses and a terrace of 7 houses.
• The application [ref WA/2007/0705] is dated 7th March 2007.
Summary of decision: The appeal is allowed, subject to conditions, as set
out below in the Formal Decision

Click here to go to the Planning Inspectorate website, and here for this appeal summary, from where you can access the full documented appeal.

Red, White, Blue... and Brown

One of the lesser known think tanks (if any of them could be said to be well-known!), but certainly one of the most thoughtful, well-written, and balanced, is Theos, a 'Public Theology Think Tank'. Having already published two excellently written reports on faith in the public square, and bishops in the House of Lords, this latest one has gripped me.

Considering the nature of nationalism vs. neighbourliness, Paul Woolley and Nick Spencer scrutinise the thinking of Gordon Brown over the past 20 years, and ask whether relying on the tenets of nationalism, in the less contentious wrapping of patriotism, is really the best way to move from reliance on the state, to society (my summary).

Their reports are all clearly and coherently written, and massively informative. Please visit their site, and be involved with the kind of public discourse that really does matter.

Walkabout

I've just returned from an 'estate walkabout' around Beldham Road, Cobbett's Way, and Greenfield Road. These are conducted periodically with the Tenant's Panel, Housing Dept, and the organisations that conduct repairs and grounds maintenance.

Today we spotted quite a lot of things that will be brought to the attention of the correct parties, and hopefully moved on swiftly. I've included a few of the photos in this post. I'd be really happy to revisit if we've missed something.

And finally... Pat Wright, the chair of the Waverley Tenants' Panel, has asked me to appeal for a volunteer to act as a local monitor for the area. This would simply be a matter of periodically looking closely around these few roads, and ringing through any issues to the council, who will deal with them straightaway. It's a great way to ensure that local issues are raised and resolved quickly. Please do let me know if you're interested!

It's good to talk - again

Following on from a few weeks ago, I've listed a few more key phone numbers below. One of these days I'll create a side bar item down the right to keep them our neat and tidy and to hand.


Tenant Repairs : 08009 547 548
Emergency out-of-hours repairs : 02392 242161
Emergency central heating services : 08009 179306

Planning Applications 16th April 2008

(Click here if you want to go the Waverley planning search page, and select 'Ward' from the left hand list of options)

WA/2008/0604: 18/03/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of a new dwelling (revision of WA/2007/2288). Land At 77 Riverdale, Farnham.
E: 482455 N: 145054
Case Officer: Chris Andrews

Applicant: Pickup Homes Ltd, 8 Boyneswood Close, Medstead, Alton, Hants GU34 5EB
Agent: David Algar, Chennells Brook House, North Heath Lane, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 5PJ
--
WA/2008/0605: 25/03/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of a first floor extension (revision of WA/2007/2683). 25 Rosemary Lane, Farnham.
E: 482245 N: 143551
Case Officer: Mr A Griffiths

Applicant: L Lambton, 25 Rosemary Lane, Rowledge, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4DB
Agent: Charter Design Associates, The Stable, Chamber Lane, Farnham, Surrey GU10 5ET
--
WA/2008/0626: 14/03/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of replacement dwelling following demolition of existing dwelling. 11 Fullers Road, Rowledge.
E: 482145 N: 143441
Case Officer: Chris Andrews

Applicant: P & H Epps, 11 Fullers Road, Rowledge, Surrey GU10 4BP
Agent: Mr Alex Horsfall, HWO Architects, 1 Bastwick Street, London EC1V 3NU
--
WA/2008/0644: 18/03/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of a detached dwelling (revision of WA/2007/1615). 20 Lickfolds Road, Rowledge.
E: 482295 N: 142966
Case Officer: Chris Andrews

Applicant & Agent: R Hills, C/O Agent J Long, Planit Consulting, Barnfield, Po Box 721, Godalming, Surrey GU7 9BR
--
WA/2008/0653: 25/03/2008

Proposed Development
Siting of a storage container for a temporary period. Recreation Ground, Westfield Lane, Farnham.
E: 482467 N: 144792
Case Officer: Ms L Smitheman

Applicant: Farnham Rugby Football Club, Recreation Ground, Westfield Lane, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4QP
Agent: J O'Sullivan, 27 Hillside Road, Aldershot, Hants GU11 3LX

Graffiti? What Graffiti?

I almost forgot to post about the excellent service I received last week via the Graffiti hotline. Only 2 days after I rang them (and followed up with an email of detailed locations), the team had been out and removed the offending 'tags' - totally gone.

My neighbour was really taken aback, as they'd cleaned up the one on her garden wall, and now she realises that the rest of the wall needs cleaning too!

Suffice to say, it was a job well done. A great response.

Keep Guildford and Waverley Clean 2008

This weekend my wife bumped into Mick who cleans the streets near our house twice a week. Even though it's not strictly in his patch, he includes the new playground on Beldham Road, because it so quickly get's completely littered, and needs attention.

It reminded me of a letter I received a week ago from Waverley Environmental Services, regarding an extra team of cleaning staff who will tackle nominated areas in the borough. It's a great idea, and you can read more about it, and nominate areas, by going to the Keep Guildford and Waverley Clean 2008 web pages.

Also, the team will undertake a project such as tree planting, in an area important to residents. Please consider nominating an area in Wrecclesham or Rowledge.

Showtime

A quick post about Mariana, who studies at the University of the Creative Arts in Farnham, and lives in Wrecclesham. A final year student, she's currently finishing her culminating animation, drawing hundreds of frames a week, and still managing to squeeze in some hours at our coffee shop on a Saturday.

Anyway, thought I'd say that you can see her showreel on youtube, and if you want to meet her, she's next at the coffee shop on Saturday 26th April.

Bond, James Bond

The Daily Mail (and before you say anything, no, I don't buy it or read it, but happened to see it lying open this morning...) has an article about a council that literally spied on a local family, suspecting that they may be lying in order to get their child into their preferred school.

Having spent a bit of time reading up on the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, it does appear that all local authorities now have power to use 'covert human intelligence sources' to gather evidence against those they suspect of misleading them.

I'm a bit taken aback, as I thought we lived in a non-communist country. So, I've decided I'm going to do a bit of digging, and see what I can find out about the use of these powers by Waverley.

Watch this space. As it were.

Lickfolds Road et al

There were a few weeks last year when I received the most letters I've ever had since becoming a councillor. It was all to do with a planning application for a property in Lickfolds Road. Well, it's that time again I think. In the past few days I've received both letters and emails both from those in favour, and those objecting, to an application for 24 Lickfolds Road.

I'm not going to express an opinion here, today, but it has reminded me of something I've wanted to do for a while - and that's to add a weekly post containing a list of new planning applications for the Ward of Wrecclesham and Rowledge. I like the planning system on the Waverley website a lot, but it might be helpful to have a subset of this list available in an easier format. So here it is for the first time. If you think there's an easier way for me to present it, do let me know.

(Click here if you want to go the Waverley planning search page, and select 'Ward' from the left hand list of options)

WA/2008/0581: 17/03/2008

Proposed Development
Erection of a new dwelling.
Land at Crowholt Cottage, Echo Barn Lane, Farnham.
E: 482896 N: 144519
Case Officer: Major Sites & Implementation Team

Applicant: Mr & Mrs M Alexander, Crowholt Cottage, Echo Barn Lane, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4NL
Agent: Kerry Field, 4 Hillary Road, Farnham, Surrey GU9 8QY

WA/2008/0591: 20/03/2008

Proposed Development
Conversion of existing dwelling into 2 dwellings together with the erection of a conservatory and alterations (follows invalid application WA/2008/0398). Westfield House, 70 Wrecclesham Hill, Farnham.
E: 481897.3 N: 144221.8
Case Officer: Major Sites & Implementation Team

Applicant & Agent: Serpentine Developments Ltd, 2 Peartree Cottages, Lovel Lane, Woodside, Windsor SL4 2DJ

I sort, therefore I recycle

This morning I met our recycle team for the first time, and at the end of my drive.

Shamefully I'd been getting it wrong when mixing various recyclable materials - I'd been leaving cans in with the glass, when it should have been in with the plastics. So, hearing the tinkle of bottles being carried, I dashed down to ask what I was doing wrong. They were about to leave without taking the glass / cans. However, on hearing my query and realising I needed help as I was a confused young(ish) man, they quickly answered my questions, helped me sort out the separate items, and took away my recycling.

I have to say, that it started my day with a smile - to have a good, fun, educational conversation with a good bunch of guys, with the sun shining. Thumbs up for the recycling team for Wrecclesham.

Front Page Splash!

I can't believe it. On the front page of a newspaper! It may only be the Herald, but wonderfully it's about the new play equipment at Beldham Road in Wrecclesham.

At the Neighbourhood Panel for that area on Tuesday night, there was much gratitude for it, and feedback that it was being used by 'hundreds of kids', which is just as hoped and intended. A few concerns were raised about older youth abusing it, and the local police are seeing if they can arrange for a camera on the area to deter such activity.

Anyway, a nice story all round I think.

Post Offices? What Post Offices?

I received the sad news today that both of the Post Offices threatened with closure (Tilford, and Station Road, Farnham) will indeed be closed. I'm not so cynical that I would say that the 'consultation' was simply an mandatory exercise with a foregone conclusion. But I do believe that it's immensely disappointing for all local residents, and actually, to a large extent, forced on PO Ltd by a government that took away all the major reasons for a Post Office to stay in the black.

My colleague and portfolio holder David Munro will definitely do all he can to ensure that the accessibility of the nearest PO for any resident is investigated thoroughly, and provision made for transportation to and from. David is already in contact with Hoppa.

See the Waverley website for more information.

From temporary traffic lights, to lighter traffic

I've been meaning to post about this for a few days: most of us have probably noticed the adjustments to the staggered crossroads at tops of School Hill and Sandrock Hill have begun. And we've probably noticed when we've been caught in the four way temporary traffic lights.

The order details can be found here, and the plan document here, both on Surrey County Council's website. Personally I think they look okay, and I wouldn't be a great fan of permanent traffic lights at the junction.

If you have any thoughts on it all, do let me know.

Click here to go to the SCC summary web page on the consultation.

Baa...

Feel a bit sheepish today. After having posted a couple of weeks ago about a weather warning from the Met Office, received via Waverely, and subsequently seeing no real severe weather, I naturally responded cynically when receiving another warning, this time about snow over the weekend.

Not wanting to alarm my blog readers (all one of them), and cause unnecessary preparations for blizzard (at least for the UK) conditions, I decided other things could take my attention.

For all of this I apologise, and unreservedly offer a free loan of my snow-shovel to anyone needing it.

Inn on the Hill

I'm not (yet) intending on making this a regular feature, but thought that as it's a Saturday, and for most a day off, I'd also make it a day off from anything connected with politics.

Hence, a restaurant review. We picked up a friend from Hindhead, a colleague from a hotel in Haslemere, and then headed to the Inn on the Hill. It wasn't on a recommendation, more an attraction to the branding (which shows that it sometimes works), and we weren't disappointed.

Simply but elegant surroundings, and friendly (and family-friendly) staff, combined to make us feel at home straightaway, and even though they needed the table for a second-sitting, we didn't feel rushed at all.

The South-African sausage starter was wonderful (evidenced by the speed at which our 10 month-old son gobbled it down), and apparently the wild-mushrooms on Brioche pretty good too.

The only down-side was the sirloin steak which took well-done to a new level of crispy. Otherwise the double-burgers were too huge to finish (and to give the waiter his due, he did warn us - us being me and my ex-Professional-American-Footballer colleague, thinking that nothing could defeat us having seen a 64oz steak in Chicago last year), and gorgeous, and the duck in a ginger sauce uncommon and delicious.

Well, I've probably proved that (a) my food vocabulary could be widened, and that (b) meat is high on my list of things to eat. Otherwise I've hopefully shown that Inn on the Hill will see us again sometime, but just don't ask for your meat well-done - take it down a notch.

Tom and Pascal

It's late, but I need to post about an event earlier tonight at the Houses of Parliament. For me, a visit to the Palace of Westminster might usually be a meeting of the Conservative Christian Fellowship, but this time it was to see the launch of a new high quality coffee from Rwanda. And it was an evening of inspiration.

Whilst the Fairtrade Foundation is undoubtedly responsible for the vast increase in awareness of unethical and sometime downright greedy exploitation of producers in the 2nd and 3rd world, it is also true that (a) they spend the majority of their income on promoting their brand, and (b) one must be involved in a co-operative to receive recognition, rather than an individual farmer.

Union Hand-Roasted seek the best of both worlds. Their 'relationship' approach to coffee, is demonstrated in their commitment to meeting all the farmers from whom they buy beans; their purchasing of beans at a price way about the fairtrade minimum; and their insistence that all tasting is blind, and purchasing done on quality only.

It's this last point that makes the real difference. By buying on quality alone, coupled with the commitment to work with farmers and co-operatives to get coffee to the kind of quality required, Union work from both ends of the chain, and thus help develop communities like Maraba into depending on their own ability to produce something that is in high demand around the world, and

As Tom and Pascal, two farmers from Maraba, who spoke last night, said, "Please buy more of our coffee!" I for one will be doing so.

Statistics, damned statistics, and, BVPIs?

Every Overview and Scrutiny committee of the council reviews a subset of BVPIs (Best Value Performance Indicators). Last night there were a few cynical comments about accuracy, necessity and coherency of the set of indicators we use.

I have a foot in both camps. Whilst I think that some statistics can be nonsense when they aren't designed to encourage specific desired behaviours, and therefore simply become numbers that 'they' want to see, it's also possible that these indicators can truly show how well we are doing. This is the case for many of our Community stats, and I hope will continue to do so. There are things that Waverley do really well, and we should be proud of them.

Fiscal Fixing

Further to my post of last Friday, when I noted the threat of capping of the Surrey Police Authority by the government, I can now attach a letter from the Chief Constable of Surrey Police to the Minister of State, Tony McNulty MP. This was sent on 23rd January, many weeks before the public attention we're now seeing.

But before some quotes, a few thoughts - income tax, council tax, benefits, in fact anything regarding government finance is never as black or white as it may at first seem. Reading the Chief Constable's letter, makes me ponder over a particular aspect of government funds - that of something that I shall call 'historical-fiscal injustice'. It's the reality that present day income is dependent on the appropriate and forward-thinking (or not) decision of yesteryear.

Of course, it's not the only reason that funds become inadequate, but it's part of it. The difficulty, or sometimes the inability to look to the future and know what resources are required, means that funding (tax) increases may lag further and further behind what is needed, especially when there is a cap of 5%.

And that's the rub - if in one year, there is a clear and present need for more money, a cap on any increase does not provide any kind of flexibility in raising it. Perhaps there's be some good headlines for the government in declaring how it is protecting the voters' interests, but more than likely it will do the opposite, by condemning the residents of Surrey to future years (not just this one), of inadequately resourced policing.

Here's a few excerpts from the letter:

I am writing in unprecedented terms to express my professional concerns about the risks to public safety of people in Surrey over the next three to five years, if our funding position is not resolved urgently. Given the inadequacies of the current funding formula in failing to take account of cross border criminality and protective services risks which are disproportionately affecting Surrey, I request you give urgent consideration of a special grant for the next CSR 3-year period.

I have serious concerns about the Force's ability to effectively meet the escalating risks facing the Force in the future. My judgement is based on a comprehensive analysis of the nature of the policing threat facing the Force now and over the next three to five years. This assessment shows serious changes in offending patterns and protective services risk profiles. We are about to hit the tipping point where the majority of burglary, vehicle crime and robbery come from travelling offenders visiting Surrey from neighbouring high crime generating areas including London (currently at 46%).

It is operationally indefensible that Surrey should receive the same level of funding as rural forces located well away from the effects of large urban centres or indeed the Capital. This is of particular concern given that the county makes a greater net contribution to the exchequer than any other county (£5.3bn).

It is for these reasons that I am seeking a special grant for Surrey for the forthcoming CSR period for a total of £54 million (i.e. £18 million / year for 3 years), which will take us to the regional average grant of £106/head* and a commitment that the funding formula will be reviewed to develop a formula capable of matching resources to risks.

It's good to talk

I've had reason to hunt out various phone numbers today, so here's a list of those I've used, that are probably pretty popular with residents of Waverley:

Graffiti hotline - 01483 523405
Tenant reporting repairs - 08009 547 548 (repairs@waverley.gov.uk)
Potholes - 08456 009 009

If I get a moment, I'll add an item to the righthand menu with key phone numbers.

Beldham Road - open for play

A playground, some children ... And a great big swing (not political!) for the mayor.

It was the official opening of the new playground on Beldham Road, and it was great fun. The children seemed to pretty much pour out of St. Peter's and Weydon, and seemed to be particularly delighted with this massive basket swing.

Planning Appeal Decision

Appeal Ref: APP/R3650/A/07/2056390
6A & 8 Wrecclesham Road, Wrecclesham, Surrey, GU9 8TZ
• The appeal is made under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990
against a refusal to grant outline planning permission.
• The appeal is made by Crownhall (PNH) Properties Ltd against the decision of Waverley
Borough Council.
• The application Ref WA/2007/0901, dated 17 April 2007, was refused by notice dated
31 August 2007.
• The development proposed is a mixed use scheme comprising 45 dwellings and a 41
bedroom nursing home with associated parking and landscaping. The appeal
application is in outline with only appearance reserved for subsequent approval.

Procedural Matters
1. At the close of the Inquiry I requested that plans showing the location of Alice
Holt Forest, Farnham Park and the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection
Area be provided at the site visit. This was done and these plans are listed at
the end of this decision.

Decision
2. I allow the appeal, and grant outline planning permission for a mixed use
scheme comprising 45 dwellings and a 41 bedroom nursing home with
associated parking and landscaping at 6A & 8 Wrecclesham Road,
Wrecclesham, Surrey, GU9 8TZ in accordance with the terms of the application,
Ref WA/2007/0901, dated 17 April 2007 and the plans submitted with it,
subject to the conditions set out in the Schedule attached to this decision.

Click here to go to the Planning Inspectorate website, and here for this appeal summary, from where you can access the full documented appeal.

Paving - permeable? Pourous?

This weekend the in-laws are staying, and I rely on my mother-in-law to educate me about our garden (including today's tip on how best to prune and otherwise treat our fig tree). What she's also great for, is saving up press cuttings and other interesting bits and pieces, and this time, it was a page out of the Royal Horticultural Society's magazine, The Garden.

The story is about new legislation, due into effect this October, that will mean a householder wishing to pave a front garden with an impermeable material (as yet to be defined), will have to apply for planning permission. The reasoning is to do with floods and run-off, and requiring good reason to provide yet more run-off on our streets than we already have.

Anyway, it sounds like good reasoning, although it has the potential for a greater burden on the planning department. Let's hope that the aspiration of this legislation (to make householders think twice before doing it), will work, rather than not stopping it at all, and simply making it more expensive and time-consuming for everyone.

Download the Impact Assessment from the Communities and Local Government website.

Electing Gladstone

A late post tonight. We've arrived home from a quiz evening at church, and, what with it being the night for putting the clocks forward one hour (already done the microwave and the oven), I should probably go to sleep.

But, before I do, one of the questions in the final, 'History' round, was this:

"How many times was William Gladstone elected Prime Minister?'

Being suspicious of trivia and tricks, I tried an answer of "0". Partly, because I really didn't know the right answer. However, as I thought about it a bit more, I starting thinking that Prime Ministers never get elected - they are appointed.

Firstly, we elect our representative to parliament. Then, as a consequence of this, either the leader of the political party in the majority is elected in his or her constituency, and one assumes the Queen (head of state) will appoint him her prime minister. Or, the leader of the political party in the majority is not elected, and thus the parliamentary party needs to elect itself a new leader, or follow its current hierarchy, prior to the Queen appointing him or her, her prime minister.

My point is this - our system of a constitutional democracy should not be summarily packaged into neat soundbites and titbits of understanding. Unfortunately it is, often by media columnists and leaders, and these end up being the 'facts' that we all think we know.

It's probably not the end of the world, but it did make me pause and think on the nature of our political system in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Hope it's made you think too.

Council Tax News

Important information regarding your council tax for 2008/09

The Government has announced that it has designated the Surrey Police Authority as one of seven authorities in the country that it may consider taking action against in response to the council tax increase being greater than 5% in 2008/09. Surrey Police Authority's council tax increased by 9.7% in 2008/09. Whilst Waverley has to collect the Council tax on behalf of the Police Authority, Waverley Borough Council's own budget has not been challenged and is not affected by the Government's announcement.

Surrey Police Authority has informed the Council that it would appeal against any action that could result from this announcement. The Government has made it clear that it has not today imposed a cap on Surrey Police Authority's council tax, therefore it is possible that no change will be necessary to their 2008/09 Budget. At this stage there is no change to the current council tax position and all amounts included on the council tax bills received earlier in March must be paid in full as previously advised. We will keep Waverley's residents informed when we have any further information.

Council Tax News on the Waverley website.

Bus Passes - revised

Great news - I'm delighted to post about Waverley's revised position on bus passes. In summary, disabled bus pass holders will be able to use their passes all day for travel.

Taking effect from April 1st, this assures a continuation of existing privileges, and is very much the position that the Community Overview & Scrutiny committee voted for last year when this issue arose.

Free Bus Travel in Waverley on the Waverley website.

Plan for a Village Design Statement

A conversation I had yesterday with a resident of Wrecclesham, who came to me with regard to a contentious development proposal nearby, crystallised for me my desire to help facilitate a Village Design Statement for Wrecclesham.

I posted about the challenges for a councillor of predisposition, predetermination et al a few days ago, and it relates to the complexities of national planning legislation when all a small community wishes to do is to ensure the continued existence of its natural way of being.

However, the challenges facing neighbourhoods in striving to protect there future in ways that complement existing structures and infrastructure, are greater. Planning law is not written in plain English, and is daunting to address, as well as frustrating in the process.

My wish, my proposal, is to facilitate the creation of a Village Design Statements. Such statements actually have persuasive power in that they are considered by planning authorities, and can hold quite some sway in decision making. Although they do take some time to create, it's been seen as worthwhile when done, as seen in another area of Waverley, Blackheath, Shamley Green and Wonersh.

If anyone is interested in being a part of such an endeavour, please do contact me, as I'm seeking to form a small group who can take this further. I've had a few expressions of interest, and we're keen to get it going as soon as possible.

Ten minutes late, yet still on time...

Cynicism about performance of public transport almost prevented me from blogging about this - but once I'd taken a breath, I realised that this really is outrageous. Train companies still receive truly massive subsidies (by any other name), all of our tax bills, and yet the way in which they publically report their performance is shocking..

This Times report day reveals all, and, the example it is based on is for South West Trains...

Graffiti?

Is it me, or has there been a proliferation of graffiti in Wrecclesham recently? I keep walking past walls particularly - as well as street signs - and see 'tags' of people who think that graffiti is either

(a) a form of public art that everyone by default wants to see;
(b) generation Y rebellion that will be viewed as prophetic in a few year's time; or
(c) a generous and anonymous effort to decorate Wrecclesham.

Or perhaps, it's the way that most people view it - mindless vandalism, that degrades our village, and in some ways is tyrannical - forced on Wrecclesham's resident, by a minority of arrogant and selfish individuals.

This may come across as somewhat assertive language, but I believe in calling this the way I see it, and it needs to be nipped in the bud straightaway. I'm going to speak with the local police and the village society to see what we can do about it. I'll post some photos shortly so you can see what I mean.

Back to my mac!

I know this may not mean much to anyone else, but just in case... I'm back on my mac! Hurrah!

Being a fanatic about Apple Macs is not unusual for a mac user, but since becoming a councillor I've not been able to fully use the Waverley email system on my mac. The council is based around Windows PCs and servers (isn't everywhere?), and like most public sector bodies and councils, uses Lotus Notes for its email and diary functions.

Thus, when asking as a new councillor, if Lotus could be installed on my mac, I received great help at attempting to do so, but no success.

After using a Windows laptop for a number of months, I decided that I simply had to get back to my mac, and after a concentrated effort this afternoon, I did it - I installed and configured Lotus Notes on my mac!

Thus ends my post of the day, which is probably only of real excitement to other mac users.

Free our bills

So, not another post about council tax or great antipodean cafes (see post on Sat 15th March). This time is to highlight a great campaign to make parliamentary bills much more accessible online. The web site They Work For You is already a favourite of mine, but now they've started to campaign for a much more modern approach to transparency.

As Sam Leith says in the Telegraph today:

"The point is not to alter the texts of the Bills, or interfere with their drafting and passage through the House. The point is simply to "parse" them into a format - marking headings, subheadings, dates, amendments and so forth - that makes them available to be searched, indexed and cross-referenced by outside users."

If you support this concept of easier access to information on bills that are passing through the house, and what your MP is saying about them, then register with the site, and they will keep you up-to-date with their progress.

Waverley webcasts its meetings, and is pretty good in my view on publishing what's going on. But, if you have any complaints, and think we could be doing more, let me know.

Oops....

.... found out today that I had forgotten to book my places for the local conservatives Spring Buffet. It's in my diary, but that's obviously not a guarantee that I sorted out the tickets. I must do it this weekend.

What it also reminds me is that the only way that local political parties continue to survive is by way of their membership, and fund raising events throughout the year. And I should note, in the kindest possible way, that the membership profile of the local party needs much change in order to fairly represent the various age groups in our villages. Around the country Conservative Future is strong and active, but here in Wrecclesham and Rowledge, we see very few young people involved in the party.

If you've ever thought about getting politically involved, as a local member, or national, and wanting to get together with similarly minded young people at bigger events, there are plenty of ways to get started.

Do email me if you want to know more. I'm always happy to meet up over a coffee, and I know activists in most groups in the Conservative Party, in whose direction I can point.

Waverley Weather

A first for me this morning - I opened my email to see a weather warning from the Safety and Emergency Planning Advisor, Keith Allen. I had heard that the weather wasn't going to be that great over the weekend, but I didn't expect the following, and certainly didn't expect to get if from Waverley! I keep learning more and more about what we do:



The Met Office issued an early warning this morning

Although it covers the whole of the SE of England, it is actually only Milton Keynes that we are singling out for a 60% risk of disruption. It is hopefully a bit clearer if you look at the Advisory online.

Let me give you a bit more of a breakdown of what we think might happen over the next few days

Friday: Cold with strong North winds and some showers - these may be wintry especially over the hills but will not settle or cause any problems.

Saturday: This is the time the Early warning is valid for. A spell of snow will cross the area - and there is a good chance (60%) it will settle in Milton Keynes. However, there is also a 40% risk of some settling snow in Kent, East Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. The highest risk of getting this settling snow is in the early hours of the morning. For the rest of the day it will again be bitterly cold with some wintry showers.

Sunday: Another very cold day with some wintry showers, and although we are not confident about how much snow there will be, we are concerned enough that there could be a reasonable amount of snow across parts of the SE that again we have issued an advisory.

Monday: Cold again with wintry showers.

Predisposed, predetermined, pre...tty complex

It's a mine field, let's face it. Not that I wasn't aware of the area of standards in public life before I stood for election, but I certainly wasn't an expert, and nothing makes things crystallize in one's mind like experiencing it for real.

So, East Street provides the basis on which I find myself beginning to understand the nuances of when, where, and how once can speak on an issue on which one feels strongly.

Especially helpful has been a paper sent out to councillors in the past couple of weeks. It's from the Standards Board for England, and is an 'occasional paper' from August 2007. It's the clearest explanation of Predisposition, Predetermination or Bias, and the Code, that I've yet read, and I'd recommend it anyone that wishes to understand the challenges that face all councillors in wishing to be forthright regarding any planning application, not just East Street.

I'd also recommend reading Alan Lovell's letter in the Farnham Herald today. He clearly articulates his challenge to councillors, and yet also demonstrates his determination to walk the fine line, and represent his residents appropriately. I also wish to do the same, and so invite anyone in Wrecclesham and Rowledge to tell me your views on the latest East Street application, bearing in mind that I have an open mind to the merits of any argument, both for and against.

Committee meetings are open to the public

Admittedly, it's probably not most people's idea of a great night out, but, so you know, virtually all committee meetings of the council are open to members of the public. It's possible that towards the end of some meetings, there are items that are confidential, and so members of the public are asked to leave, but it doesn't happen too often.

I mention this, as one of the committees closest to my heart, is the Community Overview and Scrutiny Committee. It reviews decisions to be made by the executive and full councils, on issues such as bus passes, voluntary bodies, housing, and others that impact our communities in down-to-earth ways.

The next meeting is on the 2nd April, and I've had a couple of items added to the agenda that I want to mention. Firstly, I'll be speaking briefly about a community exercise being started in Wrecclesham by the Farnham Christian Community Trust, something I've blogged about before and am taking the opportunity to update other members on how things are going. Secondly, I'll be feeding back from my involvement with Citizens' Advice Waverley, and speaking about its great service, and the challenges ahead.

[Click here for details on meetings, minutes etc.]

Wrecclesham Playground Opening

Earlier today I attended the opening of the Wrecclesham Playground. Now, I don't yet make the habit of using playgrounds regularly, (although it won't be long before Caleb is old enough to enjoy it), but wow - great playground. There's even a swing a bit like a childseat, so you can strap your son or daughter in, and be happy that they're nice and safe. I think that will be the one that Caleb uses very shortly.

The one disappointment was that very few people turned up specifically for the opening. Our Waverley Mayor, Maurice Byam was there, as well as myself and Pat Frost, local councillors for Wrecclesham. Also, Jeff Thorpe of the Wrecclesham Recreation Ground Committee attended. However, any disappointment in offical turnout for the opening, pales into insignificance compared to the families who were there simply to enjoy them the playground, and were very obviously having a great time!

Bills - both of them

Just a few hours prior to flying home, I visited a great little coffee shop in a suburb of Sydney - bills. Some of you might of heard of Bill Granger, the owner, who has become somewhat of a celebrity chef and published a number of books of great recipes. I couldn't resist visiting as some of his recipes are firm favourites in our house and coffee shop.

The other bill I should mention is the Council Tax Bill, which will be arriving on doorsteps very shortly. As per much news recently, Waverley's portion (small portion actually), has increased by 4.4.%, but the bill will cover all portions of the council tax (town, borough, county and police).

Bus Passes

Some time ago, I was involved in the Community Overview and Scrutiny committee meeting that voted to continue to extend the hours of the free bus pass scheme in Waverley. We were informed of the changes to the scheme that meant passess would now be valid nationally, not simply borough-wide, and were asked to consider whether keeping the extended hours (a 9.00 am start instead of the minimum 9.30 am start), would cause confusion if other boroughs didn't do the same.

We agreed to keep the extension, but on receiving further advice that it was required for all councils within Surrey to agree to the same hours, we amended our decision, in order to be in line with an emerging consensus for the standard 9.30 am.

However....! Very recently a handful of councils have decided to individually override this perceived need for a consensus, and announced plans to start the scheme daily at 9.00 am (e.g. Mole Valley). So, I'm delighted to blog that Waverley will also begin concessions at 9.00 am as well.

All information on bus passes can be found on the Waverley website.

Budget Response from Jeremy Hunt

Our MP has created a 'channel' on YouTube recently, and today's he's used it to issue his own response to the latest budget, in particular, its effect on the residents of South West Surrey.

Jeremy Hunt's YouTube Channel
(Click the play button in the middle of the picture)

Post Offices - Waverley response

WBC have now submitted their formal response to the Post Offices consultation. Following on from the February meeting where very clear indications of the feeling of residents were given, David Munro, portfolio holder for 'Partnerships, Community and Enhanced two-tier working' (and I'm sure even he thinks that quite a mouthful!) has sent a letter on behalf of WBC.

David makes very clear the unique and material circumstances of our communities in Tilford and Farnham, that mean the Post Offices should remain open, and by doing so will actually assist the PO in acheiving their own stated objectives as a business.

I'm sure this will be available on the WBC website soon, and when it is, I'll blog about it straightaway, and include a link.

Stats? No, Best Value Performance Indicators

There are many requirements on local councils to measure and report on their services. Thankfully, in the new tax year the number of these mandatory statistics is reducing quite drastically to 198! (See this exec briefing paper)

At first glance some of them seem at worst useless, or at least out of the control of the council (i.e. crime numbers). However, being on the sub-committee that reviews the indicators for community issues (housing, maintenance, safety), I'm finding that these numbers do actually reveal a good understanding of how well our services are working out. Our performance isn't perfect, but in many areas we are well over the target, and where not, are working hard to be so.

The devil is always in the detail of course, and in these instances it's understanding the exceptions, and acknowledging the often personal circumstances of tenants (for housing indicators), or homelessness enquiries, that mean our actions are appropriate, but don't always result in a nice statistic.

You will find the housing performance numbershere.

Planning for Physics

Most weeks I receive a list of all the new planning applications that have been received by the council. My usual process is to open it up, and search for references to Wrecclesham, or Rowledge, and check them out.

This week there is one from Weydon School. It look like they are consulting on changes to their entrance, and the possibility of a first floor extension for a science lab. Having been in the area only 3 1/2 years, and with no children of school age as yet, I'm not very familiar with Weydon, but, I'll be trying to visit soon to see the site of the application first hand.

As with all planning applications, anyone can comment by writing or completing an online form. This is amazingly helpful to councillors - to be able to know the opinions of local residents - and specially so here, as I am not on a planning committee, and can therefore advocate on behalf on residents, without prejudicing the decision.

Visit the Waverley Planning website - which is excellent - for more information.

Waverley Tenants

A couple of weeks' ago I posted about the Special Interest Group (SIG) looking at Landlord Services in Waverley, and how it would be responding strategically to the challenges facing us when our next audit of these services is conducted in late 2008.

Well, a key section of that SIG is comprised of participants from the Tenants' Panel. I received an email yesterday from its chair, Miss Pat Wright, and along with details of the current tenants serving on the panel, she mentioned that she would be very pleased to have more offers of help.

The panel is a key way for the council and its councillors to hear about the critical issues in our housing services, and thus enable us to address them. If you think you might be able to give some of your time, and live in a Waverley owned property, please do consider offering. We want to get our services right, but can only do so if we are informed clearly and coherently, from across all areas of Waverley.

Contact Pat Wright: http://www.waverley.gov.uk/tenants/involvement.asp

Queen's Birthday - our Queen!

In New Zealand (where I'm spending the weekend) actually has a public holiday for the Queen's Birthday. Yes, that's our Queen!

Now, I'm not certain that I would call myself a royalist or such like, but the depth of cultural attachment displayed by Kiwis to their home country - whether England or Ireland or Scotland or another - makes me realise that I'm sad about the increasing shallowness of the passion with which we hold onto our heritage in the UK.

It strikes me most when I see bills passed in the Houses of Parliament that abandon the moral foundation of our nation's law, and essentially put us on the path to tyranny, when our legislation is simply the result of, and response to, a short-term fad or fashion.

I would love to see the reawakening of full and deep discourse, and be able to believe once again, that our parliament is the home of leaders AND thinkers AND doers.

Second languages

This business trip is proving to be more educational that I thought. Tonight I was with friends and their children in the west of Singapore, and I learned that all children are taught a second language from junior school age.

Then, talking to colleagues from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Phillipines, I realised how envious I was that they were able to speak into a culture not only by being there, but by conversing in that language, itself a wonderful repository of history and environment through its structure and use.

I hope to encourage our own son to learn other languages when he starts school in a few years, but acknowledge that language classes in our primary schools is unusual. May be the borough council isn't the right place for curriculum policy, but right now, I wish it was!

Post Offices

I notice a good, succinct report on the recent consultation on post offices closures. The report summarises the recent meeting held at The Maltings, Farnham, to discuss the proposals to close two POs in the borough.

As we would all expect, the Executive were recommended to oppose these proposals that would directly damage our communities, and I know that David Munro and Jeremy Hunt, amongst others, will continue to campaign hard and vocally on this issue.

See the Waverley website for the Executive documents.

Flat Earth News

A book I'm reading at the moment is challenging my preconceptions of local news coverage. For a while now I've been disinclined to believe most of what I read in the newspapers, and (sadly) what I see or hear from the BBC and other TV stations. But, I've considered local newspapers to be guardians of community opinion, if not exactly guardians of truth per se.

However, I'm tempted to believe otherwise by Nick Davies, based on his analysis of the reporting coverage of the UK by way of PA and PR.

I do think he paints it in a light that makes out journalism to be a venerable profession, as precious to life as healthcare or agriculture (which is is not). I'd say he goes overboard on page 85 by referring to the 'now vulnerable media'!

But, in lieu of a full book review, I'd say it's worth reading for insight into the state of journalism today, and as a prompt to think more incisively about what we read, and not consume it as so much fodder for our insatiable appetites for gossip. If he's right, even a good percentage of what we read in the Herald is straight from a PR person's pen, or an agencies newsfeed.

P.S. I do admit to being a amateur PR person now and then, striving to help a business for which I work get better known...

P.P.S. I wonder how many fully original stories the Herald contains...

Litter? No - letter from Singapore

I'm in Asia on business, and whilst I was told before I arrived about the approach to litter, (and jaywalking, and general law-abiding behaviour), it didn't really hit home until the drive in from the airport. Wow, is really all I can say.

It contrasts massively with the kind of litter that we experience every day in our own villages. Living near a corner shop in Wrecclesham, I'm appalled at how little some of my fellow residents seem to care about the general wellbeing of our community. I believe that there is a strong link between a level of good manners in all areas of life, and the safety and happiness of our lives.

Without getting on my soapbox too much, it's not that I think that Waverley shouldn't have to clean the streets, collect waste, and recycle, but, it's that I think that the contract of society is broken between state and citizen. And not solely because of the trend towards bigger government. I believe that simply because the state does something, doesn't mean that the rest of society shouldn't.

Anyway, I could go on for a long time about this (email if you'd like to!), but suffice to say that I love Singapore, not least because I can walk down the street... and actually see the street, not just the cornucopia of retail rubbish. (And if you've been to Singapore, you'll know exactly how much retail I'm talking about!)

Britain.. no, wait... Farnham in Bloom

Farnham Town Council have their eyes firmly set on achieving greatness in the 2008 Britain in Bloom competition!

The borough council have responsibilities for ensuring parks and other public grounds are maintained and cleaned, and our contractors Glendale are as enthusiastically committed to the competition as both councils.

The area of the competition is the town centre itself, and over the coming months the co-ordination between contractors and councils will continue apace. Here's hoping that our flowers flourish.

Oh, and any offers of sponsorship would be very welcome.

Make space for place: relate

I've long been a fan of the Relationships Foundation. It seeks to encourage relational thinking in business, politics and community. I get an email from them periodically, with a recent article attached, and today the article was by Michael Schluter, the founder of the organisation.

Michael worked as an economist for the World Bank before setting off to do things more community based, and he draws on his experience and skills to ensure that the thought leadership of the Foundation is appropriate and realistic.

His article on the benefits of face-to-face meetings (place) over technologically based virtual meetings (space) is great reading, and I heartily recommend it. A company I contract for takes this view, and from experience I can endorse the view that meeting colleagues in person can transform a working relationships, and enable long-distance communication to take on so much more meaning and clarity.

Find his article here, plus links to lots more.