Walton Matters The Spring 2021 Magazine of Walton Community Council - www.facebook.com/WCCMK
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Walton Matters
The Spring 2021 Magazine of Walton Community Council
www.facebook.com/WCCMK
instagram.com/wccmk
www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk
Walton Community Council
Walton Matters CHAIRMAN’S UPDATE
Spring 2021 Dear Residents impacts of this development. their replacement with ‘Demand
Responsive Transport’ is an
The arrival of Spring brings In other news about planning enormous change to the method
Contents renewed hope that we may soon
return to some semblance of
matters, the Ombudsman has
now informed us of their decision
for public transport provision, and
it does affect our area. WCC has
normal life. That is not to say about the conduct of the process had extensive discussions with
3 - Chairman’s Update 19 - The Caroline Devine Bridge that the world of council work that led to the increase in density MKC and has sought information
4 - Budget 2021/2022 20 - Easter Window Competition Winners stood still during lockdown. The of housing permitted on the on how and where DRT will work
5 - Community Meetings 22 - QR Codes machinery of local government Hindhead Knoll northern plot. The and sought reassurances that
6 - Council Meetings 22 - Public Art Project certainly kept on turning finding of no fault with MKC for the a high quality service will be
throughout. I hope that you will lack of public consultation on the provided from the start. We shall
7 - Hindhead Knoll Development 23 - Play Area Refurbishments find this newsletter interesting and change of density is disappointing be monitoring the situation and
8 - South East MK Development 24 - Community Grants - Mk Sailing Club informative as we update you on and damages our confidence in will make representations, should
10 - Neighbourhood Plan Refresh 25 - Community Grants - Transitions UK WCC’s activities over the past few the planning process. Nevertheless the service provided fall short of
months and share our plans for the we continue to pursue the matter. expectations.
11 - East West Rail Consultation 26 - Community Grants - MK Snap
months ahead. In the following, Additionally, we are in the process
12 - Community Facilities 27 - In Short I highlight some key areas of our of refreshing and refining our As you will see from the
13 - Demand Responsive Transport 28 - From the Wards ongoing work. Neighbourhood Plan to do as contents of this newsletter, WCC
14 - Browns Wood Sports Ground 29 - Walton (MK) FC much as possible to protect our continues to provide a variety of
As I walk around our area and continue to influence services to our residents and our
15 - Support Services Pull Out 32 - Contact Information neighbourhoods, I contemplate what should be built and where environment, insofar as our remit
19 - 2021 Events how fortunate we are living in this within our parish boundaries. allows. All of this is done within the
relatively tranquil environment, framework of good administrative
NOTICE
among friendly people and gifted Parking is also an issue in several and financial governance and a
with green spaces we can all places but has been a constant transparent democratic process. In
enjoy, and that have helped to blight on the Caldecotte area. these challenging times, financial
keep us sane during the past year The residents’ parking permit disciplines are of particular
WALTON COMMUNITY COUNCIL
of lockdown. At the same time, I scheme has had some success importance and I draw your
am troubled by the threats that and proposals have been made to attention to the bottom section of
loom large on the horizon. Under create more formal parking spaces your council tax bill for this year
OFFICES ARE CLOSED TO THE
the banner of ‘the necessary in some areas. Meanwhile, the that shows a zero increase for
expansion of MK’, the scale of car park at Bow Brickhill station, ‘Walton PC’. This means that your
development allocated to the previously free for commuters to funding of WCC’s work for this
PUBLIC UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
south and to the east of Walton use, has been redeveloped and year remains unchanged compared
Community, is overwhelming. extended by Red Bull. However, with last year. WCC endeavours
We look at some of the other it is now charging a substantial always to provide best value for
YOU CAN STILL REACH US BY EMAIL OR BY MOBILE recent large scale developments
around MK and the errors that
daily parking fee. Clearly this
will put more pressure on the
taxpayers money and look forward
to your continuing trust in the
COUNCIL MANAGER - 07726 533705 / MANAGER@WALTONCOMMUNITYCOUNCIL.GOV.UK
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OFFICER - 07726 591029 / OFFICE@WALTONCOMMUNITYCOUNCIL.GOV.UK have been made. Sadly it does Caldecotte area as commuters and work that WCC carries out. WCC
FINANCE OFFICER - FINANCE@WALTONCOMMUNITYCOUNCIL.GOV.UK not appear that any lessons others visitors will now park in the has no other agenda other than to
OPERATIONS OFFICER - 07726 286123 / OPERATIONS@WALTONCOMMUNITYCOUNCIL.GOV.UK have been learnt and the plans Caldecotte residential streets to serve your interests as residents
WARDEN - 07486 374483 / WARDEN2@WALTONCOMMUNITYCOUNCIL.GOV.UK for SEMK also make inadequate avoid the charge. WCC is working of this area. Councillors and Staff
provisions for infrastructure, closely with all parties and asking work relentlessly to do what is best
particularly for the road network. Red Bull to reconsider its position for our community.
Add to this the impact of the East on charging.
West Rail upgrade, bringing more Mario Toto
frequent trains and constraints Continuing on the theme
on crossing over the railway. The of movement, the removal of Chairman – Walton Community
combined threat to our area is subsidised bus services and Council
unprecedented and WCC continues
to work hard to promote common “WCC has no other agenda other than to serve your
sense, good design and protect our
community from the detrimental interests as residents of this area”
2 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 3
Walton Matters Walton Community Council
BUDGET 2021/2022 BUDGET 2021/2022
INCOME EVENTS CE As Walton Community Council prepared its budget acquisition and refurbishment of Walnut Tree Pavilion
Precept REG -£409,307 Family Coach Trip CE £750 for the year, foremost in its mind was what the Council and Sports Ground. It is important that the area does
Subsidy REG £0 Third Age Summer Coach Trip CE £850 can do with the community’s limited resources to not lose this facility so the Council has earmarked £65k
Bank Interest Received REG -£500 Xmas Coach Trip CE £800
Grant Income - Ward Councillor REG £0 Summer Fayre CE £5,000
make living in the Walton area a more pleasant of reserves to cover running costs for the year whilst a
Advertising in newsletter CE -£300 Bands in the Park CE £500 experience. full programme of refurbishment goes ahead.
Caldecotte Xperience CE -£2,500 Xmas Celebration CE £4,100 Walton Community Council’s plan, put simply, The Council takes a cautious approach on our
3rd Age Coach Trips CE -£800 Open-air cinema CE £2,000 is about services for people and services for the expenditure plans and maintaining reserves as a
Family Coach Trip CE -£400 The Big Lunch CE £600
Summer Fayre CE -£400 WaltonFest (Youth music event) CE £6,000
environment, underpinned by good governance. There sensible contingency for uncertain times, or perhaps
Xmas Celebration CE -£90 New events 2021/2022 CE £1,000 is always much to do in maintaining the excellent opportunities that lie ahead. As always, the key to the
Allotments OPS -£4,275 Events CE £21,600 environment, landscaping and amenities the Council Council’s success will be public participation in our
Browns Wood - sports field hire OPS -£3,900 Committee already has and in addition, allocating funds to the regular surveys, to tell the Council how it is doing, and
Walnut Tree - sport field hire OPS £0 FIXED ASSETS OPS
Council’s ongoing program of play area renewal. where it can do more.
MUGA hire OPS -£200 Equipment Purchase OPS £3,000
Walnut Tree Pavilion income OPS £0 Maintenance & Running Costs (Van & Tools) OPS £1,750 Walton Community Council has a firm focus on Walton Community Council’s 2021-2022 budget
Matched funding -£10,040 Repairs and renewals OPS £1,000 community engagement, with a fully dedicated was agreed at the Full Council meeting held on 2nd
Total Income -£432,712 Total Fixed Assets OPS £5,750 council officer and committee with funding to deliver December 2020 and its precept of £409,307 on 6th
EXPENDITURE Committee Committee
activities and events for the benefit of all age groups January 2021.
Office Costs (1) OPERATIONS OPS
Insurances REG £3,500 Dog bins/cleaning OPS £6,500
in the community. Last year’s scheduled community Walton Community Council’s budget for 2021-2022
Memberships/Subs REG £2,300 Landscaping Contingency OPS £5,000 events were badly affected by the Covid19 pandemic is £464,512.
Salaries / Pensions HR £153,000 Neighbourhood Services OPS £5,000 with most activities being cancelled, but the Council The full economic impact of Covid19 is still
Salaries Contingency HR £7,000 Walk To School Graphics OPS £6,070
was pleased to deliver some limited summer play unknown, but due to the potential hardship and
Office Rent OPS £26,112 Conservation Volunteers Program OPS £4,000
Other Room hire OPS £2,500 Security contract (MUGA & car park) OPS £10,250
sessions for children and some socially distanced uncertainty around the pandemic, the Council agreed
Staff Clothing & PPE OPS £600 Environmental topping-up services OPS £16,000 family activities. Already in 2021 we have delivered a to reduce the total precept request from £417,900 in
Staff training HR £4,000 program of Easter play sessions and we hope for a full, 2020/2021 to £409,307. This meant that the Average
Councillor training FC £1,000 Play Areas Refurbishment OPS
uninterrupted program of summer events. Band D precept could be kept at current 2020-2021
Professional fees - general REG £4,000 Sullivan Crescent OPS £20,080
Professional fees - HR HR £1,600 Lamb Lane OPS £5,000
Walton Community Council is also continuing with levels of £98.44. The Council also agreed to use
Travel expenses - staff REG £500 Gatewick Lane OPS £5,000 the refresh of its Neighbourhood Plan which started £31,800 of its working balance to support the budget
Financial /Booking system software REG £7,500 Carraway Close OPS £5,000 in 2020-2021 and has been successful in its bid for and make up for the shortfall between income and
Sage Support OPS £1,800 Tansman Lane OPS £5,000 funding to cover the costs. expenditure.
Office Costs (1) £215,412 Bench refurbshment OPS £5,000
Committee
High on the Council’s agenda this year is the
Office Costs (2) OPS Strategic Landscaping OPS £5,000
General Expenses
Bank & payment charges
Mobiles
OPS
OPS
OPS
£1,500
£200
£900
Lamb Lane
Buzz stop - Walnut Tree
Total Operations
OPS
OPS
OPS
£10,000
£850
£113,750
COMMUNITY MEETINGS
Office Stationery OPS £500 Committee
IT Support OPS £4,850 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT OPS In the absence of face-to-face covered in more detail elsewhere Questions were raised by residents
Printing & Photocopying Costs OPS £1,100 Browns Wood Sports Ground Maintenance OPS £0 meetings due to the pandemic WCC, in this issue of the newsletter. during the meeting on a number of
Telephones & Broadband OPS £1,500 Browns Wood Utilities OPS £300
like many other Councils, had to The South East MK Development different issues and the Councillors
Outdoor Eqpt Repairs & Maintenance (Trim trail & Browns
Office Costs (2) OPS £10,550
Wood)
OPS £0 look for new ways to engage with Consultation, Demand Responsive and Officers of the Council gave
Committee Total Facilities Management OPS £300 the community. We got together Transport, the Neighbourhood Plan answers where they could, and took
GOVERNANCE Committee with Thames Valley Police on Refresh, and the plans for WCC to details to find out more where they
ALLOTMENTS OPS
Councillor's Allowances REG £5,750
February 23rd to hold a virtual take over community facilities at couldn’t.
Expenses - councillors REG £200 Utilities OPS £1,500
Audit REG £2,700 Landscaping OPS £4,950
Have your Say meeting on Zoom. Hindhead Knoll and Walnut Tree As a first time holding such a
Grants/S137 REG £30,000 Repairs & Maintenance OPS £535 Though it was only attended by Sports Ground. big meeting in the virtual space,
Annual Parish Meeting FC £1,500 Other OPS £15 a few residents there were many Ahead of the meeting we asked we were very pleased with the
Total Governance £40,150 Total Allotments OPS £7,000 interesting questions asked and residents to send in questions turnout and engagement during the
Committee
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CE
answers provided. that they wanted answering, and meeting, a few minor disruptions
Community Engagement (General) CE £1,500 On April 8th we held our Annual these covered a range of subjects notwithstanding. As the ability for
Parish Guardians CE £1,000 Parish Meeting, also on Zoom and including refurbishing children’s Play the Council to hold such virtual
Newsletter CE £10,000 Expenditure £464,512 streamed live on YouTube. The Areas, car parking in Caldecotte, meetings has now been removed,
Youth Project CE £8,000
Summer & Easter activities CE £15,000
Zoom meeting was attended by law and order issues and antisocial it’s an exercise we may never get
Youth Involvement CE £5,000 over 30 residents and watched by behaviour in car parks, speed to repeat, but we hope to see as
Third Age Services CE £5,000 another fifteen on the live stream. control on local roads and the many residents in the flesh at future
Residents' Survey CE £1,500 The agenda for the meeting focused implementation of 20mph zones, meetings.
Online education CE £1,000
Fitness sessions CE £2,000
on a few of the main issues facing and vehicles causing damage to the
Community Engagement CE £50,000 the community, all of which are verges.
4 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 5
Walton Matters Walton Community Council
COUNCIL MEETINGS HINDHEAD KNOLL DEVELOPMENT
Over the last year we have spent quite a time Meetings arranged after 21 June will be held in Outcome of a Complaint to the The LGO then went on to state: The tree is currently subject
working through what could only be called a the larger Atrium at MK Snap Building so that limited Local Government Ombudsman “While I find [Milton Keynes] to a Root Protection Order
governance minefield: cancelled meetings, holding Covid19 Secure measure can still be put in place until a Council’s decision to make a major which protects the roots while
extra-ordinary meetings, holding virtual meetings, time when attendees are comfortable with meeting in With a heavy heart, we change through the schedule development is taking place. After
You-tube live streaming, getting to grips with Zoom our usual, but smaller Room 2 and 4. continue to see the development of additional modifications that, the protection ends. Any
and Teams, etc. All the while interpreting government progressing at Hindhead Knoll. questionable, it was for the future work to the tree would
guidance to ensure that the Council continues to Our altered Meeting Timetable: We tried out best to stop this Planning Inspector to decide need permission from MKC but
function legally. At times it has been quite tough awful development, but once the whether the change should have we felt that ownership alone was
and frustrating, but we see light at the end of the planning application had been been moved to the Schedule of insufficient, and we requested that
MEETING DATE AND TIME
governance tunnel, and we look forward to a time granted, we had to accept the main modifications and so warrant MKC place a Tree Preservation
Annual Council Meeting Wednesday 5 May 2021 inevitable and witness the building further public consultation. The Order on it to ensure its long-term
when we can safely meet face-to-face without having
(Virtual) at 7pm of 30 flats on the highest and most Planning Inspector’s actions protection and safeguard against
to put in place restricting measures to mitigate against
infection of Covid19. Full Council Wednesday 5 May dominating part of Walnut Tree. are beyond the scope of this any attempt to remove the tree or
In April 2020, Central Government introduced 2021 at 7.30pm or at Walton Community Council is investigation”. destroy its roots in the future. We
powers to make express provision for local authorities the conclusion of the grateful to Stuart Copeland and We are extremely disappointed did this back in October 2020 and
to deal with the challenges of holding physical Annual Council Meeting, residents of our Hindhead Knoll by the LGO’s findings. We hope we had yet to hear back.
meetings during the Covid19 pandemic. The Act whichever is the later Working Group for taking forward a that Milton Keynes Council will On 20 May, WCC was alerted
ensured that authorities could carry out essential Full Council Tuesday 22 June 2021 at complaint to the Local Government learn from its mistake and we to work taking place on the tree.
business whilst protecting the health and safety of 7pm (single-item agenda Ombudsman on the basis that expect it to improve its planning We attended the tree as soon as
Councillors, Officers and the public. These powers will to sign-off the Council’s Milton Keynes Council made a processes as a result. possible, thankful to the little MK
end on 7 May 2021. Annual Governance material change to the Walton The full findings of the LGO delivery robot that stopped play
This means that Local Authorities are no longer Statement and Annual Neighbourhood Plan through complaint can be found at long enough for us to check the
able to meet remotely and will be required to hold all Return its development of Plan:MK bit.ly/HK-LGO. We will continue paperwork and ensure that the
its public decision-making meetings face-to-face with without consultation and with to hold Milton Keynes Council to cutting back of the tree did not
Covid19 Secure measures in place for the time being. Meetings July onwards are likely to be held as no verbal or written justification. account, and we fully expect it to exceed that which was indicated in
Whilst some Local Authorities can adapt to this The change had trebled the site publish full details of the outcome the planning permission.
follows (to be confirmed at the Annual Council
change, it has caused some headaches for Local density contrary to the Walton of an internal investigation about The tree was cut back by 2.5m
Meeting):
Councils (Town & Parish Councils) that do not have Neighbourhood Plan and Milton the reason and justification for and left the tree looking rather
the facilities to put in place social distancing measure Keynes Council had made no the increased site density, as skewed and it brought home to us
Full Council meetings – first Wednesday of the month
for meetings that need to accommodate an unknown reference to the change during the promised by the Chair of the how essential it was for us to gain
(no meeting in August)
development and consultation of Development Control Committee, that protection. The efforts from
number of public. For our and resident’s protection, Operations Committee – second Tuesday of the month
the Walton Neighbourhood Plan. Councillor Anthony Brown, at the our residents worked and we have
we have decided to cancel our scheduled meetings (no meeting in August)
The Local Government Development Control Committee now been in discussion with MKC
between 7 May 2021 and 21 June 21 (the date set to Regulatory Committee – third Tuesday of the month
Ombudsman cleared Milton meeting back in July 2020. about the grounds for the tree’s
end social distancing rules) and any urgent decisions Community Engagement Committee – (fourth
Keynes Council of fault despite the In a recent interview with a protection.
can be made through the Council’s adopted Scheme of Wednesday of the month (no meetings in August and
Ombudsman expressing concern local MK Citizen reporter, Stuart MKC now need to apply to itself
Delegated Authority. December)
that: Copeland had said Milton Keynes for a Tree Preservation Order and
“a major change to the density “can hide behind the idea that the we will keep our residents up to
Central Government Call for Evidence
of dwellings on the site was inspector told them it was OK, but I date on its progress. Watch this
included in a document which the want to make sure they go through space!
The experience of remote meetings has been varied and whilst the experience of managing and participating in
Council’s own website describes as the process”.
remote meetings has grown considerably during the period since the remote meetings regulations came into force,
being used to make corrections to You can view the full newspaper
there have been examples of the difficulties this format has posed for some authorities. Who can forget the viral
typographical errors and update article at bit.ly/HK-MKC
Handforth Parish Council Meeting!
factual information. A change in
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is seeking views on the use of the current
the density of the site is more than Oak Tree at Hindhead Knoll
arrangements which have provided express provision for local authorities to hold meetings remotely or in a hybrid
just a typographical error.”
format during the Covid19 pandemic. The call for evidence commenced on 25 March 2021 for a period of 12
The Ombudsman further ruled We would like to thank all our
weeks.
that: residents that took the time and
We will be responding to the consultation to advocate for the potential to hold remote/hybrid meetings in the Milton Keynes Council “could trouble to lobby Milton Keynes
future. have chosen to include the Council about the concerns we
change in the Schedule of Main all share about the long-term
Anyone interested in viewing the consultation document can visit: Modifications which would future of the Oak tree, located on
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/local-authority-remote-meetings-call-for-evidence/local-authority- have had the benefit of public Milton Keynes Council land on the
remote-meetings-call-for-evidence consultation on the change. It did border of the development site at
not do so.” Hindhead Knoll.
6 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 7
Walton Matters Walton Community Council
SOUTH EAST MK DEVELOPMENT SOUTH EAST MK DEVELOPMENT
We would like to send a big thank you to all Milton Keynes is unique, and we want our new pollution buffering. Building the wrong movement from the SPD and we have requested that it should
residents who took the time to respond to the public neighbours to enjoy the same benefits as we do, network would destroy the quality of life in Walton be explicitly re-instated. Densities should also be
consultation on SE:MK SUE SPD – in other words namely, green open space, freedom of movement and forever. commensurate to those present in existing adjacent
the Draft South East Milton Keynes Strategic Urban life in a safe, pleasant environment. settlements, including Walton.
Extension Supplementary Planning Document (catchy Most certainly, a lack of vehicular connections
title!) We were astounded by the ethos of the SPD. (bridges) will cut off communities, education and The deadline for comment on the draft SPD ended
Financial viability was mentioned twice in the health care and without them, MKC would simply on 19 April 2021. MKC Planners will collate all the
Whilst the concept of expansion is not opposed, consultation document indicating that this was the be storing up issues for a later date. We only need comments and presented to the Council. The final
major flaws in the draft SPD were clear. We cannot most pressing factor for MKC. The SPD even said that to look as far as our own V10 at Walton Grange draft will then be presented to MKC’s Cabinet for
emphasis how much this development has the if building new grid roads was too expensive for the to understand the potential implications if the adoption.
potential to change our area forever. developers, then they shouldn’t have to! We believe development does not apply the right ethos.
the needs of residents and those of the wider city The adopted SPD will be a material consideration in
To get the messages across, we embarked on a should be paramount not pure profits. The proposed higher density build could result in the determination of planning applications coming
publicity campaign with leaflets, letters, interviews a decreased level of green/open space amenities. forward for the development area.
etc, highlighting our concerns and we were overcome We believe that the expansion area should have the Originally, planners proposed an overall density of
by our resident’s response. For a whole week, every feel of a natural extension of MK with a continuation 30 dwellings per hectare (dph) in SEMK (we have Thank you again, for your time and effort in helping to
morning our inboxes contained a substantial number of the grid roads and grade separated crossings. This 35 dph). However, that reference has disappeared highlight these concerns to MKC.
of emails about your concerns and copies of your would help to mitigate the impact of the development
responses to the consultation. by ensuring the free flow of traffic. MK was always MAIN ISSUES HIGHLIGHTED IN THE WCC RESPONSE.
planned to grow up to the M1 motorway as a natural • All grid road extensions must be implemented as per Plan:MK and developers tasked with how to
In our official response to MKC, we wanted to barrier so let’s make sure this final area is done right! finance it.
highlight 5 key themes of concern: • All road crossings must be grade-separated (underpasses).
There is no evidence base to support any of the
• The H10 should be extended eastward to Newport Road (and then beyond to the A421/M1 J13),
• Ethos of development movement frameworks in the draft SPD and we
providing free movement of traffic from the South East corner of MK and giving relief along the A421.
• Transport considered it imperative that Milton Keynes Council’s
This should show Byrd Crescent clearly with grade separation on its maps and in the wording.
• Infrastructure policies should apply. This would ensure proper
• The V11 must be extended South, through the reserved corridor. Crossings at Holst Crescent and Morley
• Site density and sensitivity linkage between the development area and MK and
• Drainage and flooding the provision of self-sustaining developments, grid Crescent must be grade separated. This, combined with the V10 rail crossing and Woodley’s Road will
roads, redways, grade separation and sound and share traffic, reducing volumes in any particular location.
• The V10 should be included in the SPD due to significant impact the development would have on this
area.
• The proposed Woodley’s Road must have a left turn to Woburn Sands, as there is no justification for
building a compromised road connection.
• The green infrastructure plans should be delivered as described in the ‘Open Space’ section in 3.4
and 4.2.16 – 4.2.19 of the SPD. Section 4.2.3 & 4.2.24 concerning open space areas for play including
minimum size, serving 600 metre catchment areas, separation buffer and checks for conflict with other
green infrastructure functions should be adhered to and be detailed on future masterplans, so that these
are visible and resonate to future infill.
• The location of Woburn Sands station should be confirmed.
• The existing Woburn Sands Town Centre facilities and retail provision is not of a scale and layout
that would serve the needs of the new adjacent community, not least because of the insufficient
parking space. Retail and other facilities for the new development area must be provided in the new
development area, and reliance on existing facilities in the surrounding areas should be minimised.
• Health care provision and schools should be built well ahead of the house builds and before residents
move in otherwise, this would place immeasurable pressure on already stressed environments in the
surrounding areas.
• A mix of residential densities should provide for diversity and varying character across the site, with
lower and comparable densities towards the edges of existing developments, complementing the
character of neighbouring areas.
• Caldecotte Brook and its tributaries should be treated holistically in the SPD and subject to a hydrological
study to provide assurance to residents of their continued protection against flood damage due to
overloading of the existing drainage system.
8 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 9
Walton Matters Walton Community Council
NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN REFRESH EAST WEST RAIL CONSULTATION
My name is Stuart Copeland and I have been a resident at the last step Plan:MK, and East West Rail (EWR) is carrying out non-statutory • Browns Wood – an underpass for pedestrians and
of Shuttleworth Grove in Wavendon Gate since 1992. consulted no one. We raised consultation about its proposals for the development cyclists.
I live here with my wife – our two sons have flown a complaint with the Local of the railway that will improve connections for people • Old Farm Park – an underpass for pedestrians,
the nest now. We enjoy Milton Keynes very much and Government Ombudsman living and working between Oxford, Milton Keynes and cyclists and horses.
lockdown walks have only served to emphasise how and while he judged MKC had Cambridge. • Woodleys – this is likely to be bridged as part of
well planned this area is. not done anything illegal, his SEMK (South East Expansion Area), but it must be
comments were damning. The project is being delivered in stages. Trains already suitable for all forms of transport.
Walton’s Neighbourhood Plan “I am concerned that a major run between Oxford and Bicester and EWR aims to
You may remember that in September 2013, Walton change to the density of have trains running the full length of the line by the In each case, EWR has a proposal in its consultation
Community Council (WCC) took advantage of new dwellings on the site was included in a document which end of the decade. documentation that would, in theory, meet our needs.
powers under the Localism Act to start a project to the Council’s own website describes as being used to However, the devil is in the detail. Legally, they only
create a ‘Neighbourhood Plan’. The purpose was to make corrections to typographical errors and update EWR wants to hear from you on two particular key must mitigate the impact of the railway, so will not,
ensure that local people had as much say as possible in factual information…………….A change in the density themes: unless pressured, consider the strategic needs of the
how Walton grew and changed. of the sites is more than just a typographical error.” V10, SEMK or the MRT.
WCC put together a team comprising residents, Finding, Point 13, LGO Case 19 014 684. • Customer experience and railway operations
community councillors and officers to deliver the Plan. Therefore, it is vital that we update our Plan to • Infrastructure proposals, such as route alignments, EWR is also looking to co-ordinate with MK Council to
In other words, a team of local experts. It was a very consider the impacts of new developments and reduce stations, and level crossings install a new traffic crossing where the V11 extension
new thing, not just for us, but for the country so it took the risk of a repeat of MKC’s refusal to obey the needs would meet the railway.
a while, but we completed it at the end of 2016. Full and wants of local people. Walton Community Council’s View:
details are on WCC’s website. There is a risk that the increased rail service leads to
The Plan sets out 19 policies to guide development. Our Objectives EWR will impact Walton not just because of the more noise and pollution from the line. Therefore, we
They do not change the proposed use of sites, as set We established our aims for the update as follow: widening of the line and faster running trains, but should ensure EWR takes steps to mitigate this impact
up in the Local Plan. However, they seek to shape in • Make the Neighbourhood Plan current, following because the EWR Company has a remit to close all 31 in their plans.
more detail the form of development on vacant sites the adoption of Plan:MK. level crossings between Bletchley and Bedford. This
and ensure it fits in with the character of the area and • Reconcile Plan:MK policy and NP policy and amend includes: There is a lot going on here now, but we are at a vital
provides appropriate facilities. as required. stage where the EWR and SEMK proposals can be
• Remove any policies that no longer apply because • The permanent closure of the V10 traffic level altered if we all respond to the consultations. We
Why Are We Refreshing Our Plan? they are full built out. crossing at Bow Brickhill. cannot assume EWR or Milton Keynes Council has our
Four years on, we have started a new project to • Seek up to date resident feedback for the area. • The foot crossing at Browns Wood. best interests at heart so we need to tell them.
refresh the Plan. Why are we doing this? There are two • Reconcile new national planning policy and the NP • The bridleway crossing, referred to as ‘Pony’ at Old
reasons: and amend as required. Farm Park. You can learn more about the proposals and respond
• New developments that affect us, namely the • Review and understand the impact of SEMK and • The farmer’s crossing referred to as Woodleys. to the consultation at https://eastwestrail.co.uk/
Oxford Cambridge Arc, East West Rail and, most update policies accordingly. consultation
recently, the SEMK development. In early consultation meetings, EWR has said they
• The Hindhead Knoll Case – Milton Keynes Council Our Plan expect to build at least 16 new ‘grade separated’ The deadline for comment is 9 June 2021.
trebled the allocated density of the site, with no The timescale depends to some extent whether crossings, meaning bridges or underpasses. Therefore,
public consultation, and then approved a planning the updates are of sufficient scale to trigger a new there is a risk that some of the crossings in our area
application for flats that we do not need here. referendum. But our aim is complete the process in will be closed forever.
2021.
New Development The SEMK development is advertised by Milton Keynes
We now know that the Oxford Cambridge Expressway How You Can Help Council as an ‘urban extension’, which is obviously
is cancelled but there is a risk that they use an A working group was established last year to review not true if we lose railway crossings.
extended H10 as a through route to link junction the existing plan and update it. Some of us are
13 and the A5. East West Rail started a consultation veterans of the original and we have some new people Given how important all these links are,
in April to gather feedback on its plans to close all on board. But there is always room for more local we should insist on:
level crossings and replace some with bridges or expertise and support for the work required.
underpasses. Failing that, we will be publishing the updated plan • Bow Brickhill V10 crossing –
The SEMK high level plan consultation has also taken in late summer for consultation, and we would like as this is a key strategic route, so
place. The current plan falls well short of what we many people as possible to respond. This is your plan, must be a dual carriage way
deserve from MKC and in its current form is a disaster after all. bridge or underpass, suitable
for our new neighbours and all adjacent communities. We will update you as we go, but please let us know if for road, redway and the
Hindhead Knoll you would like to be involved or want to understand proposed Mass Rapid Transit
The Hindhead Knoll Case was quite shocking. MKC some of the changes we are making. (MRT). We must have solutions
ignored the Neighbourhood Plan, changed the density for the roundabouts either side.
10 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 11
Walton Matters Walton Community Council
COMMUNITY FACILITIES Whilst the land belongs to
Milton Keynes Council, it
has become an important
Walnut Tree Pavilion and that provide a benefit to the As part of the transfer package, community focal point for
Sports Ground community.” we successfully negotiated £43k us. We are invested, currently
of s106 developer monies to put paying top up fees to Milton
Exciting times ahead! We are The pavilion and grounds are run- towards the future refurbishment Keynes Council to carry out
progressing with our acquisition down and has been subject to of the facility. Development additional maintenance works
of the freehold for Walnut Tree years of vandalism and anti-social at Walton Manor will yield an and many will know that we
Pavilion and Sports Ground and behaviour. The whole site is in additional £100k to further have already taken responsibility
we are waiting for Milton Keynes desperate need of substantial improve the pavilion and grounds for the maintenance of the
Council’s responsible Cabinet care and attention. Around two and cover future maintenance raised beds and the Christmas
Member to sign off our business years ago, the fence was erected costs. We have prudently built Tree.
case at a delegated decision around the building and whilst up our financial reserves to
meeting. this stopped the attacks on the ensure there are sufficient funds So, it would be fitting then, for us through the land which would drawing down s.106 developer
pavilion, it did nothing to widen to cover up-front refurbishment to have submitted an Expression remain the responsibility of monies from the two Hindhead
This will be a big step forward its appeal as a community facility. and maintenance works to the of Interest (EOI) to acquire the MKC’s Highways). Knoll developments, ensuring
in meeting one of our main pavilion, until such a time as the land freehold so that we can The transfer of the land is in its future maintenance cost and
strategic priorities and we cannot We commissioned an funding from the Walton Manor continue to maintain and further early stages and is not a done improvements are fully funded.
wait to start the refurbishment independent survey back development becomes available. improve the area in perpetuity deal and so in the meantime we
and improvement works at the in October 2019 which (excluding the redway which runs are investigating the potential for Watch this space!
site. identified approximately £95k Hindhead Knoll Open Space
of improvements required
Strategic Priority:
“To embrace Milton Keynes
Council’s Devolution
to get the pavilion up to a
good usable standard. Milton
Keynes Council promised to fix
More exciting times ahead! Most
will be aware that we frequently
use the open space at Hindhead
DEMAND RESPONSIVE TRANSPORT
Agenda” the roof/ceiling/wall repairs Knoll to put on some of our most From the 1st April 2021 a number of the bus routes hours (7am-9am, 4.30pm-6.30pm) and £2.50 at all
and carry out essential safety popular community events and in Milton Keynes were scrapped and replaced with other times.
WCC recognises the impact of checks prior to the transfer, we are so looking forward to later Demand Responsive Transport. (DRT). Concessionary passes under the ENCTS scheme
reduced Local Authority funding reducing the refurbishment in the year when we can bring Services 9, which runs in Walton, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, will still be valid for free travel after 9:30 am on
and will embrace the devolution bill by approximately £6k but back some of those activities 30, 31, 37, 80, and 30 are no longer running. In our weekdays and all day at weekends.
agenda by protecting, as much unfortunately this work has been – our annual fayre, the open- area the 11/12 service will continue, but has been You can pay with debit/credit card via the app or in
as possible and practical, local delayed because of Covid19. air cinema night and our Xmas altered and runs until early evening on weekdays. vehicle with the PAYG purse on the MK Move card.
community assets and facilities Celebration. The DRT service is not restricted to previous Period passes are not accepted at this time.
timetables or routes. It picks up passengers from You can download the MK Connect app from the
their chosen destination and takes them to their Apple Store and Google Play Store, use the web
required drop off point when they want to travel. portal: http://mkconnect.app.ridewithvia.com or
The service, called MK Connect, works like a call them on 01908 252526.
minibus that comes when you want, where you
want — book a ride straight from your phone, get
picked up in minutes, and be dropped within a
short walk of your destination.
It’s available from 6am – 11pm Monday to
Saturday and from 9am – 6pm on Sundays.
Public holidays will have Sunday service
levels. There will be no service Easter
Sunday and Christmas Day.
DRT will be available by smartphone
app, web or phone booking. Just call
for a vehicle a few minutes before you
want to travel. If there is a scheduled
bus service that covers the route you
will be offered that option instead.
The ticket cost is £3.50 during peak
12 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 13
Walton Matters
BROWNS WOOD SPORTS GROUND
Hoorah! After months of closure the Multi-Use to go by, will be a huge visitor attraction and a
Games Area (MUGA) is open and available for highlight for local wildflower photographers when
hire. You can book exclusive use of the MUGA by the flowers are in full bloom.
contacting our office.
To prevent unauthorised access around the car
The outdoor gym is open too! The raised beds park, 9 wooden bollards will be strategically
around the gym are looking so much better placed in vulnerable areas and a height restriction
since two of our staff volunteered to give up a barrier will be installed at the entrance.
surprisingly ‘sunny’ Saturday in late February to
give the area some much needed love and care.
We have planted Meadow Crane amongst the
lavender and these vibrant blue flowers will be
blooming very soon.
A big thank you to resident volunteers that have
come forward to help maintain the area during
the summer months.
Improvement Works
The Training Grid gradient has been lowered to
make the area more accessible and the surface
has been rotavated with 40 tonnes of sand
incorporated into the existing soil. Just the
seeding to be done before it can be used for a
multitude of sports training.
Wildflower seeds have been sown around our very
popular pump track and if last year is anything
14 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk
Walton Community Council
THE CAROLINE DEVINE BRIDGE
We held a competition last have decided to name the bridge and others and internationally
year to name the replacement ‘The Caroline Devine Bridge’ after at Temple Contemporary in
footbridges we installed over Milton Keynes based composer Philadelphia.
Caldecotte Brook in Browns and sound artist Caroline Devine. Caroline spent 2014 as
Wood. ‘Piglet Bridge’ was the Caroline specialises in sound Leverhulme Artist in Residence
name selected for the larger installation pieces, such as the in the School of Physics and
bridge. To fit in with the extraordinary ‘City of Things’, a Astronomy at the University of
surrounding street theme, the piece commissioned by Bletchley Birmingham and in 2019 she was
smaller bridge, would be named Park, made with 60 different made a Creative Fellow of the
after a female composer. channels of sound, all of them Institute of Advanced Studies at
We thought it would be a good recorded in Milton Keynes. This University of Birmingham. She
idea to name the bridge after was installed next to John Lewis has been commissioned to make
a local, active composer, so we in the Centre:MK in October 2017 an episode of Between the Ears
to celebrate the 50th anniversary for BBC Radio 3 and shortlisted
of the New Town of Milton two years running for a BASCA
Keynes and later recreated for British Composer Award. In
the opening exhibition of the November 2020, Caroline was
extended MK Gallery. nominated for an Ivor Novello
Caroline has had other projects award in Sonic Arts for her
installed locally at The Open piece ‘On Common Ground’ at
University, Bletchley Park and Greenham Common.
the Theatre District, nationally More information on Caroline’s
in the V&A Museum in London, works can be found on her
in Birmingham for IKON Gallery website carolinedevine.co.uk.
This section has been designed using resources from Freepik.com
Striving to improve our community 19Walton Matters Walton Community Council
Full names of the winners are published on our website. Competition was not open to any WCC employees or Councillors
backgrounds and elements from Freepik and Vecteezy
20 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 21Walton Matters Walton Community Council
QR CODES PLAY AREAS / LANDSCAPING
Last year Covid19 put a spanner in the works and delayed our play area refurbishment plans. This year it
Keep an eye out in the parish for the roll-out of
is all about getting back on track and we have added another 2 play areas to our project timetable.
the Council’s new QR code stickers, starting with
our dog bins. This means that you could scan
The play areas earmarked for refubishment works this year are
the code on your smartphone and report any
problems by email to the Community Council
office. We are planning to extend this service to
our noticeboards, so you can easily see the latest
Council meeting agendas, and then on to more
of our outdoor equipment around the area, so
you can connect to videos about how to use the
equipment.
PUBLIC ART PROJECT
After the amazing success of Woody the Rock
Snake in Browns Wood Sports Ground last Sullivan Crescent – Refurbishment was scheduled
summer, local residents requested the snake be for last year but Covid19 delayed access to
made permanent. Cementing the stones into MKC’s matched funds. We hope to start the
the ground was not a feasible option and instead refurbishment later this year.
we looked at how they could be used as part of
a larger piece of art. So, with the help of Milton
Lamb Lane, Wavendon Gate – refurbishment
Keynes Council’s Public Art Officer, we set about
works will include the green route leading from
establishing a Public Art Steering Group to deliver
Lamb Lane/Isaacson Drive through to Passalewe
a piece of public art to Browns Wood that could
Lane.
be funded by s.106 developer contributions.
The Steering Group made up of WCC Councillors,
staff and residents has developed its plan and
once funding has been confirmed an artist will be
commissioned and tasked with working with us
and the local community to produce a final piece
that reflects the original Woody the Rock Snake
spirit. Tansman Lane, Old Farm Park
Gatewick Lane, Caldecotte
Carraway Close, Walnut Tree
22 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 23Walton Matters Walton Community Council
COMMUNITY GRANTS COMMUNITY GRANTS
Are you a charity, voluntary or community organisation Transitions UK
that works with or provides a service to the residents of the Transitions UK would like to thank Walton Community were easy options for virtual mentoring alongside good
Walton parish area? Do you need funding to help with a Council for their generous support of our Attain Project
in the Milton Keynes area. The last year has been
old-fashioned phone calls! We then used a private
Facebook group to create a weekly schedule of social and
start up, a project or maybe you need to plug a shortfall? challenging for everyone, especially vulnerable young
people leaving care who have a limited support network
skills sessions for the young people to participate in as
much as they wished. We are now blending the best of
and limited opportunities. Our Attain Project supports face to face and online provision to give our best support
Contact Walton Community Council and see if your organisation is these young people for up to two years with one-to- yet.
one mentoring and skills development to improve their
eligible for a grant. employment prospects and help them to live happy, One of our greatest success stories in the Walton area
successful and independent lives. We currently have 30 is John, who built up an excellent relationship with his
Walton Community Council allocates a sum of money each young people on project in Milton Keynes and a waiting mentor, a successful local author. With the support of
financial year to be awarded as grants to eligible groups who can list (thanks to our referral partnership with the DWP) so
we will be expanding to 40 in the next few months.
his mentor, John had three pieces of writing published,
including most recently a piece for Step into Spring, an
demonstrate that any funding would benefit our community. At the beginning of 2020, all our provision was face
initiative by Shanthi Women’s Cultural Centre. Very sadly,
his mentor recently passed away but the resilience she
to face, but when Covid lockdown began last year, we had helped John to develop, means that is he is coping
Applying is easy - Just visit our website, click on the ‘Council’ tab, then on ‘Finance’ and download worked quickly to transfer our well at this sad time and is building a good relationship
the simple one page application form, or contact our Council Manager at provision online. What’s with his new mentor.
manager@waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk App and Facetime Another young man in the Walton area, Kwame, has
recently started an 8-week NEET (not in education or
Below, and on the next few pages, we hear from a few of the organisations that have benefited employment) programme through our collaboration with
from a grant in the last year. SOFEA. Alongside therapeutic input, he will complete
his forklift training and attend 3 days of work placement
per week. Kwame is excited for this opportunity and the
potential benefits for his future. Other beneficiaries on
Milton Keynes Sailing Club our Attain Project have gone on to secure permanent
employment following this programme.
In the last couple of weeks, sailing resumed at Caldecotte atmosphere, and visitors are A recent addition to the Attain Project, Mia, had
Milton Keynes Sailing Club at Lake, and as the lockdown always welcome to call into become depressed. Covid restrictions were making
Caldecotte Lake, has taken measures are further relaxed, the club if they want see the life complicated, she had no Wi-Fi at home, her
delivery of its new training and the Sailing Club are aiming to facilities or need information bike got a puncture and she didn’t have the
rescue boat - offering better return to full sailing in June, regarding sailing membership. emotional support that she needed to keep up
with her college course. Following a referral
safety cover for youth, adults, and offer learn to sail courses in Further details at
to us and pairing with an understanding
trainees and sailability sailors. June and July this year. MKSC www.mksc.org.uk mentor, Mia has re-engaged with her Art and
Walton Community Council operate as a not-for-profit Design course at college. We arranged for
provided a generous £2500 membership club, owned Wi-Fi (with support from EE), helped her
community grant, together and run by its to repair her bike and access art materials
with MK Sport grant and members for she needed to work at home. She is now
enjoying her course and feeling more
MKSC funding the rest. The the enjoyment
positive about the future.
new boat will allow for single of sailing in
handed safety cover for sailors the beautiful All names have been changed. If you
during pandemic sailing, and Caldecotte would like to make a difference to a
better close supervision for Lake, with young person’s life, please do get in touch
the ever growing youth sailing memberships to find out how you can help. Charlotte
squad. The robust RigiFlex boat starting from Lawrence is our Aspire Project Manager and
can be reached here charlotte.lawrence@
construction will make this boat as little as £1/ transitionsuk.org and 07711850544. Please
last for many years, with low week. The club see our website for more information. www.
maintenance costs, and safer has a friendly transitionsuk.org
operations. From March 29th, and informal
24 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 25Walton Matters Walton Community Council
COMMUNITY GRANTS IN SHORT
Right - Our new concrete chess
MK Snap tables have been installed at the
south lake at Caldecotte. The plan
A state-of-the-art disabled toilet facility has been changing bench, a hoist system and space for the is to have chess sets for hire very
installed at MK SNAP’s Walnut Tree centre, with the disabled person, up to two carers and their equipment. soon.
support of a grant from Walton Community Council. The majority of the funding came from the Wolfson Below - Our Easter play sessions
The Changing Places Toilet Facility provides the extra Foundation and was installed by the Newport Pagnell- were a big success, with 100%
space, equipment, comfort and safety that people with based Stellar Development Limited. The WCC grant of of the places booked. Pictured
profound and multiple learning disabilities often need. £3,000 funded the hoist system. are the huge new battle zone
WCC said they are proud to be part of the project, An official opening and registering of the Changing at Special Ops in Potterspury,
which will make a dramatic difference to the quality of Places Facility will be announced. kids having fun at the MK Play
life and dignity of people who need these facilities. It Association sessions, and braving
increases access to all the opportunities on offer in the the early spring weather to take
Walnut Tree building, including MK SNAP, WCC and its part in the Caldecotte Xperience
activities and the Jill Foster Dance Centre. activities. We will be back with a
Once this project is complete it will be on the national full program of summer events, so
register location map of Changing Place toilet facilities. look out for those at the start of
The ‘Changing Places’ toilet facility will improve the July.
accessibility to MK SNAP’s weekly programme of skill-
building sessions and support for people with multiple
and complex learning and physical disabilities.
Changing Places toilet includes a height-adjustable
It’s good to be back! Community Foundation, helped We always need help with
There’s a sense of celebration, joy fund IT equipment at MK SNAP our gardening sessions, is this
and relief in the air as the Learners and to help individual Learners get something your company would
at MK SNAP are given the go ahead online. like to get involved in?... a great
to return from April 19. MK SNAP will continue to look at team building experience!
Daily numbers are currently how technology can be used to Angela Novell, MK SNAP’s CEO said:
severely limited due to social deliver its education, learning and “We appreciate any help you can
distancing regulations, working in skill-building sessions and support give us in order to continue the
bubbles and guidance from MK our learners in greater online important work we do. Thank you,
Council. access and skills. in advance, on behalf of the Snap
MK SNAP provides a unique blend How can people help us? Team and the learners.”
of education, work training and Do you have expertise that might
life skills sessions for over135 help us? For example, support using
adults with learning and physical social media to raise awareness and
disabilities in and around Milton funds; support with online GDPR
Keynes. and cyber security;
COVID19 saw the charity adjust and Fundraising: setting up a sponsored
realign their services and support challenge, events or social activities
the different needs of Learners who to raise funding for MK SNAP.
lost their usual routines, seeing Perhaps you work for an
their friends and without access to organisation that could link with
the learning, health and well-being MK SNAP? Your organisation could
and skill-building sessions at the run fun activities, such as fun runs,
Walnut Tree centre. cake sales etc (supported by our
The charity invested in the latest learners) and raise some money
technology and took its support for us (this would help us to break
and services online. Gradually down barriers about disability)
the majority of learners came Do you have packing jobs etc
online. Emergency COVID19 maybe we can do this for you or
grants, including support from MK your company?
26 www.waltoncommunitycouncil.gov.uk Striving to improve our community 27You can also read
