Wendover Parish Council, Matters Arising, August 2023
View from the Chair
At the end of Armed Forces Week, RAF Halton exercised the freedom of Buckinghamshire by marching through Wendover flying the King’s Colour and bearing arms. I was privileged to join many residents who turned out to watch the parade and thank our local armed forces.
We would like to extend our gratitude to each and every one of you for joining us at the Freedom Parade, your presence and enthusiasm added immense joy and significance to the occasion. We would also like to express our appreciation to the organisers, RAF personnel, band members and all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event a resounding success. Their dedication and hard work brought together a spectacle that will be remembered for years to come.
Road closures
We have been made aware of the disruption caused by the road closures and can only apologise to everyone who was negatively affected by the diversions put in place. We will be seeking a comprehensive review of what mistakes were made, in order that we learn from them.
Canal tow-path
The ongoing upgrade works taking place along the canal tow path are aimed at enhancing the overall experience and safety for all users of this popular recreational pathway. While the upgrade works are in progress, we kindly request your patience and understanding. The temporary inconvenience and restricted access are essential to ensure the works can be completed efficiently and to the highest standard.
We understand that this may cause temporary disruptions to your regular routines and recreational activities. However, we assure you that every effort is being made to minimise any inconvenience caused. The ultimate goal is to provide an improved and revitalised tow path that will benefit the community for years to come.
We encourage everyone to adhere to any signage or safety instructions that may be in place during the upgrade works. Your cooperation and vigilance will contribute to a safer environment for all pedestrians, cyclists, and canal users. We are confident that the end result will be well worth the temporary disruptions. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
New councillors
At our meeting on 4 July we were delighted to co-opt two councillors; a warm welcome to Anne Wales and Leigh Porter. We look forward to collaborating with them and working to use our varying skills and experience for the good of Wendover. There is still one final vacancy, should anyone be interested could you please contact the Clerk for further information.
Water-flow through Wendover
The waterways of Wendover and the Weston Turville SSSI are facing a significant threat from HS2 cutting our aquifer and diverting water towards Stoke Mandeville and Aylesbury. We are potentially missing an opportunity to mitigate the impact and instead HS2 plan a multi-million-pound tunnel taking storm water past Wendover, adding to the problem.
Wendover Parish Council believes they could be utilising an existing pipe under the A413 that would lead to the Hampden Pond, in turn to the Wendover Canal and support the Weston Turville Reservoir. This would preserve the natural flow of water in Wendover’s waterways and provide a cost-effective solution. We are asking HS2 to consider the alternative and cheaper option.
Annual Quiz 2023
Wendover Parish Council is looking for 18 teams of 3 to enter the free annual village quiz. More information will be on our website. Applications close on 4 September 2023. Email estates@wendover-pc.gov.uk if you are interested or have any questions.