Chineham news archive

Connecting Chineham
Work is now well under way in enhancing broadband services in the Basinstoke area. Despite the fact that Chineham and Hatch Warren have the worst service in our area, it is by no means certain thast the improvements will benefit those who are suffering the most abysmal speeds.
Spotlight will continue to press for for a better deal for Chineham. In the meantime, Hampshire Cunty Council, through its e-Hampshire initiative, used the recent Smart Commute Week to trial homeworking/live webcasts. The topics for discussion were diverse and have now been converted to podcasts, as follows:

The Car Club Phenomenon - Philip Igoe, CommonWheels
The Instant Meeting - Peter Bennett, Ozone Conferencing
The Home Working Revolution - Ken Sheridan, Remote Employment
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Smarter Working Centre Network - Tony Corbin, eHampshire
The Smart Travel Plan - Heather McInroy, National Business Travel Network

They can be viewed on line at: http://www.ehampshire.org/smart_commute_week_2009_webcast_recordings/c-292.html

Once it got into its stride, the Car Club debate was pretty informative, and your Spotlight editor even participated!

Also, you might like to know that the first three Smarter Working Centres are now open, including one in Whitchurch, with a further four Smarter Working Centres opening in January 2010 in Aldershot, Basingstoke, Fareham and Gosport. Visit the Smarter Working Centres website http://www.smarterworkingcentreshiow.org.uk for further details and booking information.
[23.11.09]

Footpath Resurfacing Guinea Court
Expected to be 3rd-4th November resurfacing work will take place on the footpath link.
The footpath is through the woods, not directly by houses, and other routes around the stretch being worked on are promised to be available.

Invitation to Plant
Bulb planting - Long Copse playground - Saturday 7 November

Chineham Conservation Group will be planting bulbs in the playground just West of Long Copse, between Long Copse and Hanmore Road .
Meet at the playground, which is accessible via footpaths from both Long Copse Chase and Little Copse Chase. Car parking is available on the verge on Hanmore Way . Please do not park in the active bus stop (on the railway side of the road).

Please dress for the weather. Tools including gloves will be provided. Our weekend work parties are from 10 am to 1 pm, we have a coffee break half way through. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided.
Everyone welcome (although children must be accompanied by an adult).

Chineham Conservation Group is one of a number of voluntary groups doing conservation work in the Basingstoke area under the council umbrella. [1.11.09]

A New Brush
Spotlight wishes to welcome Dan Cotten who started as Chineham's new litter picker as from Monday of this week. He is tall and with his florescent jacket he should be easy to spot from afar. That said, when he was recently seen here on temporary holiday relief, he was working so fast that all that you might see is a blaze of yellow.
Don't be shy about having a word with him so that he quickly becomes a part of the Chineham community.
[15.10.09]

Wheeling Scrap Away
For years, Chineham has suffered under the scourge of dumped Tesco trolleys. Before going any further, one must repeat that the main offenders in this matter are those residents who improperly remove trolleys from the shopping centre and then, even worse, fail to take them back. But legislation also requires that retail outlets take measures to restrict the litter imposed on the surrounding neighbourhood. Despite it's massive resources, Tesco has failed to implement satisfactory trolley capture measures at Chineham. READ MORE
[7.10.09]

Consultation: Proposed Designated Public Place Order
Consultation in underway by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council regarding an application for a DPPO to cover Chineham Shopping Centre, Binfields Woodland Park, Binfields Farm Lane, Elvetham Rise Play Park, Simons Road Play Area as there may be potential for anti-social behaviour problems to be displaced to nearby residential areas.
It seems such an order would allow police additional enforcement powers with which to tackle alcohol related anti-social behaviour in these areas.
Comments have been invited by the licensing team who can be contacted on (01256) 844844 or email licensing@basinstoke.gov.uk by 10th October.

Chineham Ward Borough Councillor Resigns
John Downes has resigned from his role as a Conservative councillor representing the Chineham Ward. A by-election (at considerable and needless public expense) has been called and will take place on 15th October. READ MORE
sept09

ROAD CLOSURE 26th June to 16th July 2009

Affected Road:-
Cufaude Lane, from its junction with Crockford Lane and its junction with Silchester Road .

Reason for Closure:-
Because works are being or are proposed to be executed on, or near the road

Period of Closure:-
The closure will come into effect from 26 th June 2009 until 16 th July 2009 2009. (Notwithstanding the above, the closure should only take 5 days)

Alternative Route:-
Via Crockford Lane , Lime Tree Way , Crockford Lane , A33 Reading Road , Bramley Road , Sherfield Road and The Street or by this route reversed

Binfields Leisure
As previously reported, the Chineham Annual Parish Assembly (APA) on Monday 19 May will include further discussion about possible leisure provision on the former "Sports Barn" site. Discussions will benefit from the presence of the Basingstoke and Deane lead officer on this topic. HOWEVER, there will after all now be NO new formal proposal or plan to put before the meeting. (We apologise for the misleading information given in good faith in the earlier news posting).
The intention is merely to sweep up all the still outstanding thoughts in advance of preparing a revised plan which will be the one available for consultation at drop-in sessions in early June; (watch this space). It is hoped that thereafter the required modifications will be modest so that final architectural drawings can be prepared with the intention of moving forward to a formal planning application at the tail end of June.
Officers have already concluded that the boundary to the site must be significantly strengthened with three (or possibly two) formal access points only. The siting of the previous indicated access near Elvetham Rise would be moved further south. The potential noise arising from the skate area is cited by Environmental Health as likely to be unsatisfactory and this could be addressed by one of three approaches, namely a mechanical acoustic barrier, removal to the southern perimeter of the site, or location elsewhere altogether, such as Tollhouse Meadow.
The i-play zone is perhaps rather different from what has been previously understood and does not provide any on site direct access to the internet and is more of a physical "exercise" facility with home-based website monitoring and overview capabilities.

The 9 meter high Richter pyramid tower probably looks something like this illustration found on the web by the Spotlight team. More explicit information is anticipated at the APA meeting.

It is not too late for you to come forward with further suggestions for enhancement or alternatives, so please share your ideas whilst there is still a chance to influence the outcome! [17.05.08]

richter pyramid tower example

!!! Youth Zone !!!
There has been much discussion about both the location and equipping of the Binfields Leisure Area. That a leisure facility of some nature would be located in the area at the end of Binfields Farm Lane has been established since the time that the county council first submitted a outline planning application for the Binfields Development Area at large. Read More

View Proposed Youth Zone Layout

As notified previously in this column, a borough officer will be bringing a revised plan to the Annual Parish Assembly which will be held in Christ Church on Monday 19 May, commencing at 2000. Additionally, the borough council has arranged for a further two drop-in sessions to take place at Christ Church between the hours of 1800 and 2100 on both 10th and 11th of June. Furthermore, an electronic consultation opportunity will exist on the borough council's website.
Hopefully, with all this further public engagement, it will be possible to reach a compromise to the satisfaction of most – if not all – residents, both close to the facility and further afield. [12.05.08] !!!

Leisure Facilities in Chineham – What do you think?
The next issue of the Chineham Chat should contain a questionnaire to all Chineham residents concerning how leisure provision might be enhanced within the parish. A list of possible projects is presented, but a write-in box is also provided for additional ideas. This box is at least as important as the list created by the parish council since the "brain storming" session held by councillors in drawing up the list might well have overlooked or not even contemplated other good ideas.
Do please take part in this survey as the parish will shortly be in serious discussion with the borough council concerning how existing funds might well be allocated in the months and years ahead. It is important to have your say. [24.4.08]

Link Set to Improve
The much-discussed proposal for a proper footpath link between Taylor's Farm and Chineham is now much closer. A planning application (number BDB/68499) has been submitted and details an unlit route through Petty's Copse and linking with the footpath to the north of the Petty's Copse play area in Chineham.
A debate is ongoing as to whether the semi-constructed footpath through the conifer woodland to the north of Petty's Copse should be lit. Either way, some landscaping improvements are intended on either side of this stretch of path. The details of the applications should shortly appear on the borough's website. [22.4.08]

Eco Development Update
After creating generally favourable murmurs in many quarters, the application for 24 low and zero carbon dwellings on Taylor's Farm has promoted in excess of 10 objections. As a result, the application now automatically goes to the borough's Development Control Committee. This takes place on Wednesday 7 May 2008.
Despite the aforementioned favorable comments, so far no member of the public has written to the borough, supporting the application. It would seem that the majority of the objections are to the appearance of the proposed dwellings. It might reasonably argued that if we are to achieve radical improvement to the sustainability of new dwellings, a measure of change in appearance is almost inevitable. Hopefully it will be possible to achieve a positive way forward for this project. [20.04.08]
VIEW APPLICATION

More Travellers at Great Binfields Farm Lane
Yet another group of travellers have encamped on Great Binfields Farm Lane. This is a sensitive site as it is so close to Great Binfields Primary School and despite several unauthorised encampments over the past year there seems to have been no adequate deterrents put in place to discourage travellers from returning, indeed some chalk mounds in the area were actually removed allowing easier entry.
A height restriction was placed across Great Binfields Farm Lane but this did nothing to hinder access via the path/cycle ways and the very recent placement of two concrete bollards again proved no problem for the travellers who just drive pass them.
Parents pass the encampment with their children on school days with both walking and parking made more difficult. There are also the enevitable clean ups that follow.
If you have any thoughts on this topic then take a look at this traveller thread on our forum or you can view our previous Binfield Travellers Article.

*Update* - concrete bollards have now been installed in number across footpaths on both sides of the lane!

Whoops!!!
We APOLOGISE that issue 27 of the Spotlight newsletter contains a very unfortunate error. The "snippets" column states that planning permission has been granted for the Binfields leisure facility. Whilst this was based on seemingly sound information at the time, it now turns out to be mistaken. The facts are that the application has yet to be determined and this could incredibly be delayed until February when it might even be placed before the council's Development Control Committee.
Difficulties appear to be revolving around some minor boundary and highway issues. The substance of the leisure provision is not in question. Meanwhile, Chineham Parish Council is working hard to ensure that all items of equipment are installed from the beginning although currently the available funding would not stretch that far.
Additionally, both the police and the parish council are eager to see the area become an alcohol restricted zone right from the start.

Very Slow Post
It is disgraceful that residents in Taylor's Farm and Binfields still have nowhere local (within reasonable walking distance) to post their letters and cards. This is particularly unfortunate when the Royal Mail's business is declining and they are whinging about competition from the internet. READ MORE

Binfields Leisure Park Latest

The drop-in sessions organised by the borough council on 10 and 11 June 2008 were sadly attended by only 7 members of the public.
This is somewhat surprising since there had been much prior discussion about the events and the particular attraction of plans showing a revised layout was a significant milestone. Read More [20.06.08]

Binfields Woodland Art
There has been a good deal of discussion about the value of the carvings which have now been erected in the Binfields woodland. There are more pieces of artwork to come including wicker work, felt work and even metal work. READ MORE
There are opportunities for those interested to take part in some related workshops.
Read the latest Basingstoke & Deane press release

Chineham Arms Hungry for Woodland
Despite being rebuffed in the past, Fuller Smith & Turner PLC, the owners of the Chineham Arms, are intent on expanding the accommodation at their Chineham premises. "But where?" [13.10.08]
Read More

chineham arms car park and side of copse

Fox's Return !!
Disappointingly, but not exactly surprisingly, the tenacious would-be developers at Hillacre have come back for a further bite of the cherry.
The house plots have shifted slightly compared with the previous proposals, but the basic impact on Fox's Furlong remains unchanged. One might even think that there was some interest in the welfare of existing residents, if the applicants had at least moved the position of the access road to a point where the existing open space did not become totally decimated.
It looks like many residents will be sharpening their pencils for another face-to-face on this inappropriate application. [13.09.08]

Cycling in a Circle
Well - the weather was something of a challenge for the annual Chineham Neighbourhood Watch Cycle Treasure Hunt on Saturday 6 September. The rain eased for the event, but was pretty vigorous both before and after. Neighbourhood Watch obviously has influence in high places.Read More
[12.09.08]

Snail Mail to arrive at Binfields and Taylor's Farm?
After months, nay years, of pestering Royal Mail about post box provision in North Binfields and Taylor's Farm, there is at last, a smidgen of progress. Martin Biermann has received a written communication with a promise to take the issue forward. Whilst this does not provide an opportunity to relax, it does hold out the prospect that the serious lack of sensible provision in these two areas may be overcome in time for Christmas posting!!!!!! We shall see [22.06.08]

Park Art
From a developer fund of £35,000, works of art are to be created in Binfields Woodland Park. The borough council is to engage artists who will produce a series of artworks which form a trail through the space. It is expected that the artworks will be located within clearings adjacent to natural pathways, although they could also be incorporated into trees/canopies in some way. Both permanent and semi-permanent works of art will be considered, although it is expected that the creations will be endure for a reasonable period. [10.09.08]

Artist's Brief for Park Art

Heaven or Hell on Hanmore?
A Road Traffic Regulation Order came into force on 25 August 2008 which significantly restricts parking on roads in the vicinity of the Chineham Arms pub.
This is a new departure for Chineham as double yellow lines have been resisted on adopted roads elsewhere in Chineham. It could, however, be a pre-curser of other such schemes, like, for instance, around the Four Lanes schools site. The main question as regards the new Chineham Arms paint job, is wether the punters will now move further into Ajax and Achilles Close and thus cause residents even more stress.
Either way, it must be recognised that the road junctions should now be much safer, so long as there is meaningful enforcement of the parking restrictions. [9.09.08]

View The Traffic Regulation Order

In the Dark
Despite the fact that Hampshire County Council recently appointed new contractors to maintain street lights, the blackout at the Binfields Roundabout and adjacent stretches of the A33 persisted for several weeks. Bearing in mind the the problem was merely "a burnt out 63 amp fuse and holder", this performance is little short of disgraceful.
The contractors have been engaged for many years ahead. Have HCC adopted an appropriate termination clause? [8.09.08]

Helicopter Hell
Staff from RAF Odiham have agreed to make a presentation regarding their flying activities particularly in the way they impact upon Taylor's Farm. This is taking place in the Liddell Hall at Sherfield Village Hall on Monday 8 th September, commencing 7.30pm.
The RAF have asked that the meeting should not be used as a forum for specific complaints which should be directed through the MOD complaints procedures. Whilst it would be unrealistic to expect total cessation of low flying exercises, previous debates of a similar nature have resulted in an easing of the problem for a limited period.
If you are concerned about this problem, it might be worth popping in.

Not so Much a Safer Route
Seemingly the contractors carrying out work on behalf of Hampshire County Council's Safer Routes to School team cannot read drawings properly.

If this is not so, how come that the railings across the path leading from Forest Drive to the main entrance of the Four Lanes schools site have not been placed at the kerbside (as shown on the published drawing)?
The railings and bollards are located about a third of the path width in, causing even more congestion at this pinch point than has historically been the case. It also exacerbates the impact of the blind corner at this location at the busy start and finish of school hours.
The Spotlight Team is hoping to get the railings re-positioned, or better still the footpath widened at this location. [23.06.08]

Allotment Seeds Planted
As is sadly too often the case, reaching a satisfactory conclusion on the issue of allotment provision behind Ajax Close is turning out to be unduly long-winded. There is however now, a glimpse of hope on the horizon. That said, whilst there is very great enthusiasm from throughout Chineham for the establishment of the allotments, and general support from the surrounding households, this support is not universal.
Once a scheme has been formally drawn up, it will be particularly important to consult with neighbouring householders and then, seek to address any objections. Thereafter, it is likely that some aspects of the scheme will require a planning application. The current intention is to clarify the funding sources, tidy up the legal aspects of the land use and then establish costs. It had been hoped that the project might be completed before the end of the year, but that is now beginning to look less likely.
The various interested parties also now have the challenge of developing a fair means of allocating the plots to the applicants who are currently over-subscribed by at least ten enthusiasts. [19.06.08]

!! Update of the Youth Zone !!
An update from the poorly attended drop-in sessions, including the amended layout, will follow during this week.

Child of Chineham in the Chilly Arctic
Following stiff competition from throughout the UK, Chineham resident, Emma Biermann, (currently studying at Warwick University), was one of two people from the UK to be chosen by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to become a part of a “Voyage for the Future”.
This is an expedition to the Arctic, set up by WWF to introduce 18 young people from 9 countries to personally witness the current massive impact of climate change. Apart from keeping in touch with the rest of the world via blogs and the like whilst on their voyage, once back in their home countries the participants are tasked with engaging politicians and decision-takers at national and international level to help drive home the message of the need for serious action NOW to address the increasingly serious consequences of climate change.
View a Fuller Explanation of the expedition or keep track with Emma's progress by logging onto her blog Emma In The Arctic where the reports of all the other “ambassadors” can also be followed.
Spotlight hopes that this massive investment by WWF will eventually make a contribution to helping our politicians understand the climate problems ahead of us and the fact that meaningful (and possibly painful) steps need to be taken now if the future of Emma and her peers is to be worthwhile. [16.06.08]

Chineham Disconnected – Almost
You may have noticed from some recent press reports that it is recognised that Chineham is suffering even worse than most other parts of the borough in terms of slow broadband connections. It is quite clear that the UK is falling behind in broadband speeds, and to be faced with links falling way below even the poorly rated levels being sold to us is little short of a disgrace.
We are led to believe that – in recognition of the importance of good broadband communications for a thriving economy and general wellbeing – Hampshire County Council e-government officer is keen to have some feedback in order that he can put pressure on BT Openworld. So if you – in common with the Spotlight team – are fed up with dropouts and speed hardly faster than dial up, please do register via this link www.ehampshire.org/notspots
You may also wish to highlight your views and experiences on the Spotlight forum pages under the Chineham Broadband Thread.
If you wish to test your speed and keep in touch with the national situation, try this link http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7416471.stm [15.06.08]

Chineham Leisure Survey
Have all members of your household yet completed the survey form included with the last edition of Chineham Chat? Do remember that you can either copy blanks of your existing form or download further copies from the Chineham Parish Council website which is at www.chineham.gov.uk .
If neither of these are possible, then the Spotlight team can provide with additional copies. There is a steady trickle of responses. If you wish your views to be included, it is important to get them in by the end of May). The borough council will be using the information to prepare future scheme and expenditure allocations. [18.05.08]

Lit up Link
Chineham Parish Council has supported Martin Biermann in his plea for lighting to be included in the scheme for a new formal footpath link between Taylor's Farm and Chineham. The current application seeks to remove the already installed lighting. Instead the parish council has suggested that the exiting lighting be retained and that it, together with additional lighting through the copse, be movement activated in order to have minimal impact on surrounding wildlife. Most people seem to agree that lack of lighting will seriously reduce the use and thus effectiveness of the proposed link. [13.05.08]

Another Successful Re-election
The Chineham Parish Council 2008 Annual Statutory Meeting saw the re-election of Chris Tomblin to the post of Chairman and David Thornton as Vice-Chairman. [13.05.08]

No Change in Chineham
The whole council elections this year resulted in a significant shift into a clear Conservative majority on the borough council. The overall seat allocation was Conservative 35; LibDem 14; Labour 9 and Independent 2.
The following link holds Full Basingstoke Election Results, including Chineham Ward. [2.05.08]

You can also view more about the Chineham Ward on our own Local Government Page.

Travellers Still Trying
Thanks to lack of diligence by the company collecting waste from Great Binfields School, the ‘goal post' barrier across Binfields Close Lane which forms part of the Maginot Line, was left unlocked. It did not take long for enthusiastic scouts from the travelling community to become aware of this mishap.
Fortunately, the Hampshire Highways team were also made aware that the road was now exposed to another encampment and quickly purchased a substantial padlock and put it into immediate service. This proved to be a truly prudent act since the school's staff soon after spotted would-be ‘campers' showing some annoyance at the fact that the barrier to their intrusion had been reinstated.
This was a close call and underlines the fact that continued diligence will be critical at this location. [30.4.08]

Even More Likeable Link
It is now anticipated that if approval is given to the footpath link through from Taylor's Farm to Chineham, the existing footpath from the Petty's Copse Play Area to Thornhill Way will be enhanced.
Plans are in preparation for widening the existing path together with the possibility of reducing the rather steep gradient in the vicinity of Thornhill Way. [28.4.08]

Election Ahoy
Nominations have now closed for the forthcoming round of borough elections on 1 st May. There are three vacancies to be filled in the Chineham Ward with one Independent, one Labour, two Lib-Dem and three Conservatives seeking to fill the places. [14.04.08]

Bungalows for Reading Road ?
The controversial application recently refused for a compact development at 17 Reading Road may yet be taken to appeal by the applicant. However, informal discussions are proceeding with neighbours for a re-arranged layout with lower profile dwellings. Such a proposal would be potentially more sympathetic to the type of housing in the immediate vicinity and certainly be more acceptable to neighbouring householders. [13.04.08]

Eco-development
Revised plans have been submitted for the proposed eco-development in Taylor 's Farm. So far there appears to be a good deal of public sympathy for this proposal. For those interested in seeing the latest submission, the application number is BDB/67785. [12.04.08]

Growing Chineham
After a fairly sluggish start, enthusiasm for provision of allotments in Chineham has now surged ahead. The stage has even been reached where – if plans were to proceed on the Ajax Close site – there would be over subscription.
Clearly it is time for the parish and borough councils to move this project forward. It is not often a situation where residents adjoining a potential public facility are so supportive and the public demand is so clear.
It would be really nice to see something happening before the year is over. [11.04.08]

Fox's Victory
The planning inspector has dismissed the appeal launched by the wood-be Hillacre developers.
This is truly good news, although the inspector is content about access going through the open space via Fox's Furlong. His main concern was the impact on residents of 94 Fox's Furlong. Doubtless the applicants will now have another go but hopefully with a revised access point. [8.04.08].

Safer Chineham Panel First Meeting
The first meeting took place on 3rd March at Chineham Village Hall. The panel will meet quarterly to review what is occurring in Chineham, and to decide what the 3 priorities are with regards to community safety.. The priorities for this quarter are:

● Continue to reduce ASB in the Simons Road area and at Hartswood bus stop.
● To reduce burglary and vehicle crime.
● To increase provision of activities for children and teenagers in Chineham.

Revised Plans for Taylor's Farm Community Hall
The revised plans recently drawn up by Croudace for the siting of the new community hall within Taylor's Farm are out for consultation.
The consultation period will be running until Friday, March 28.
Go along to meet officers from the council and members of the community association at the council trailer this Saturday, from 10am to noon, at Grainger Avenue or leave your comments via the internet at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/sherfieldparkfacilities

Planned Leisure Facility in South Binfields (ex sports barn)
The overdue leisure facility that was to have been a sports barn in South Binfields - land between Great Binfields Primary School, The Hampshire Court and Tesco car park - is continuing to progress. Following consultation with local schools & youth groups the plans and resident consultations are being finalised.
It is expected that these consultations will start shortly.

The Walk to School
Pupils at Four Lanes are benefiting from a new 'walking bus' which operates mornings only from the village hall - if you are interested in helping and are willing to be trained and undergo a CRB check please let them know as additional 'conductors' would be most welcome.
Great Binfields Primary should now be easier to access on foot from the Chineham Shopping Centre as the informal route passing behind Binfields Close has been regularised up to Centre Drive with shingle surfacing now replaced with tarmacadam.

New Device to Tackle Anti-social Behaviour
A Mosquito device has been installed at Four Lanes Infant School, in Hanmore Road, Chineham, which, when triggered, will emit a shrill tone that is only audible and annoying to young people.
Following damage to the school buildings and anti-social behaviour on the school premises it is hoped that his hi-tec method will assist in helping to stop youths congregating in the evenings. The school also plans to enstall web cams in order to record activity that takes place on it's grounds.

Appeal Following Burglary
Police are appealing for withnesses after a Chineham house was burgled on Thursday 7th Februrary. Sometime between 3.45pm & 4.10pm a house in Reading Road was entered through an upstairs window but nothing was taken from the property.
Officers would like to speak to anyone who saw two young men, dressed in dark clothing, leaving the Reading Road area on mopeds around the time of the incident.
Contact PC Alex Davies on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
Police would like to remind residents to ensure that their homes are properly secured at all times.

Waiting on the By-Pass
Croudace are now drawing up plans for the repositioning of the Taylor 's Farm community hall. This is so that a route for a 'by-pass' can be safe-guarded for the future. This is partly good news but not exactly satisfactory.
What it means is that in the meantime traffic will pass along a much more tortuous route through the development and unless it is included as part of the infrastructure of the development during construction, one has to wonder very seriously if it will ever happen. Spotlight would put chances no higher than forty per cent at this stage.

Link at Last?
The need for a footpath and cycle link between Taylor 's Farm and Chineham has long been agreed. The problem has always been how this would pass through the southern end of Petty's Copse, which is a protected woodland. By virtue of the county and borough council's procrastinating for months, if not years, a de-facto path has been established along what might not be the best route for nature conservation. READ MORE

Bund or no Bund
Some developers are more reasonable than others. Few, if any, are perfect. Undoubtedly one would have to place Croudace in the more approachable category, even though their early proposals to enclose the landscape bund to the north of Thyme Close and Fennel Close was what one might describe as naughty. READ MORE

Hillacre No Greener
A revised application has been submitted to Basingstoke and Deane for development of houses to the north of Fox's Furlong. READ MORE

Taylors Farm Out of Bounds
Until now, the progress of development at Taylor's Farm has had only negligible impact upon Chineham. That situation is now beginning to change READ MORE

Hillacre into Fox's Furlong
Another developer seeking to introduce fairly dense housing to the north of existing Chineham properties still has a long way to go to pacify residents of Fox's Furlong.
A second application has been submitted for fourteen dwellings with access across public open space and into Fox's Furlong. It has left all concerned some what confused as the degree of amendment compared with a previously refused application is negligible.
The application could still finish up at a Development Control Committee meeting at Basingstoke and Deane, and this would undoubtedly result in a large crowd of residents dropping in to remind the borough of the importance of public open space, particularly when associated with a children's play area.

Travellers at Binfields Farm Lane
An encampment which included various caravans, trucks and cars took place on footpaths in Binfields Farm Lane adjacent to Great Binfields Primary School. READ MORE

Cufaude Flood
Many residents, particularly those who gallantly walk their children to the Four Lanes schools from the "wrong" side of Thornhill Way, are exasperated about the ongoing flood problem near the location where Cufaude Lane crosses Thornhill Way, near Chineham Village Hall. READ MORE

Barrier Up & Down 1st November 2007
The traffic barrier at the entrance to the Four Lanes schools has now been installed. READ MORE

Totem Casts A Spell 1st November 2007
Not without controversy, the totem pole has now been erected in St Joseph's Crescent and officially "opened". READ MORE

Slum Survivor Challenge
From Friday 2nd November at 18.00 to Sunday 4th at 17.00: The Edge youth congregation of Christchurch will be attempting to live for a few days the way a billion spend their whole lifetime.
They'll build a slum house, eat only rice and lentils, drink, cook and wash from only one tap, wear only one set of clothes and live only with the basics, so no MP3 players, make-up, TVs or laptops!
They will be at the roundabout at the junction of Thornhill Way and Reading Road, so if you can't stop to say Hello, give them a hoot as you pass, (during daytime only).

Lost Lighting
According to Hampshire County Council, there is a national shortage of streetlight columns!!!
The consequence of this is that the extra street light intended for Tollway will now not be installed as quickly as anticipated. March 2008 looks like the earliest target. Let's see, (or not, as the case may be). The county's performance on street lighting is pretty abysmal anyway. In Chineham their contractors rarely seem to manage to meet the target of rectifying "day burners" in 7 days and equally unlit lights remain so for weeks on end.
Martin Biermann is also trying to persuade the Chineham Shopping Centre management to introduce some form of intelligence to the car park lighting - which wastefully eats up energy -with massive night sky light pollution. So far this challenge is proving too great for one of the nation's largest property owners.

Lost Lead Leaves Leaks
One of the reasons most of us have to pay huge council tax bills is because of the massive vandalism targeted on public property these days. In the front line are school buildings, especially during the summer holiday periods.
All three Chineham schools were hit over this last holiday period, with Four Lanes Infant being one of at least 25 schools in Hampshire having the lead ripped off its roof. Apart from the actual lead going missing, there is of course a lot of collateral damage done at the same time. It seems that the Four Lanes site suffers some of the most regular damage in Hampshire, and this is attributed by officers to the fact that the site is so open and accessible. This is leading to some suggestions that railings should be erected all around the site so that it can be closed off when not in official use. That would be a particularly unfortunate outcome, as well as being seriously expensive. And yes, it has been realised that with lead prices being so high, it would be nonsense to repair the school roof with yet more lead, so aluminium is to be used, but that is more difficult to shape and thus some delay is expected. Perhaps the children will have to wear waterproofs both inside and out during bad whether?!?

'Static' Cleaner for Chineham
What does this mean? Is it a guy leaning on a brush all day and not moving?
Well, no, not quite; at least not so in theory. Basingstoke and Deane is posting dedicated cleaning staff in a variety of locations around the borough.
These operatives will be located in their dedicated areas from Mondays to Fridays and will mainly have a cleaning role, although some very modest control of greenery is also envisaged. Apart from potentially providing virtually continuous weekday coverage and a higher level of local knowledge, it is also hoped that a certain level of "pride in the patch" will be generated.
This new arrangement is expected to start shortly and if you feel there are particular locations deserving extra attention, please either get in touch with the parish council, one of the borough councillors or the Spotlight Team.

Barred From School
After years of trying to persuade parents to behave responsibly and not drive into the school car park to drop off or pick up children, Four Lanes governors have conceded defeat and are now to install a barrier at the main entrance.
As this is going to cost about £10,000 it is action being taken with only the deepest regret, especially as that money would - given a choice be better spent on educating the children rather than the parents. Governors felt obliged to take these measures in the interests of child safety. That said, there is also the benefit of justice for those parents who have thoughtfully found other and better ways of delivering their offspring to school, like walking, cycling or leaving their car at a more remote location (like the Chineham Arms).
If all goes well, it is hoped that the barrier will be installed during the Autumn half term break.

Chineham Neighbourhood Watch Annual Cycle Ride
The cycle ride took place on Saturday 8 September and saw 110 participants competing in what is a treasure hunt, rather than a speed trial. READ MORE

Bin Overload
In recent times, largely through endeavours of the parish council, we have improved the availability and robustness of litter bins. Sadly, the necessary emptying of bins has not coincided with this greater availability.
We are now plagued with over-flowing bins, very often adjacent to children's play areas. This is unsightly, often smelly and presents a health hazard since a large proportion of the contents of these litter bins tends to be plastic bags containing dog mess.
Strange people even think it is fun to extract these bags and throw them around the play areas. (Equally strange people thoughtfully scoop up the mess and then throw the tied bags into nearby shrubbery which rather defeats the object). It is truly noticeable that now probably a majority of dog walkers are collecting their pooch's excrement and not leaving it behind for others to step in.
It is thus now incumbent upon the borough to play its part and ensure that there is ample availability of useable bins in which to deposit these bags.

What with all the recent flooding all over the UK, and Chineham not left totally unscathed, what might the future hold?
Sadly, it seems we would not escape altogether if there were more serious rain in our part of the world. The recently installed depth gauge (is that the right name?) in Petty's Brook where it passes under Hanmore Road shows that the issue is at least on somebody'smind. Perhaps it even means that there is sufficient planning in place to help prevent a local disaster for many years to come.
This link may prove of further interest http://maps.environment-agency.gov.uk/wiyby/mapController

Bus Services
Certain bus services face the axe as the County Council attempt to make savings. Keep a check on the services you are depending on!
For those who wish to let their voice be heard there is an online petition to save services which can be found here http://www.petitiononline.com/buses/

Chineham Water Ways
Petty's River is now back to being a brook. If forecasts are right, we can expect to see scenes like those in our flood gallery rather more often!!!
The good news is that in the main, Chineham households did not suffer too much. Yes, getting in and out of Chineham was something of a pain for a while, but compared with what others suffered (and just look at the Indian subcontinent) our problems hardly register.
Does anybody know of any Chineham household which suffered internal flooding?
The Four Lanes schools were VERY close to getting seriously wet, but sandbags provided by the county council arrived just in time. (If you wish to see the infant school situation, just visit http://www.fourlanes-inf.hants.sch.uk/2392-index/2392-news.htm .
If you have your own pictures showing scenes not already in our gallery, way not post them to our webmaster for inclusion?

Housing Access Outrage - Fox's Furlong
Just when you think that all sites for development in Chineham have now already been built on or at least identified, up pops a shock surprise! READ MORE

Update on Chineham Arms License Application
The application to extend outside drinking hours at the Chineham Arms has now been considered by the borough's Licensing Committee.
The outcome is that permission (for a specified zone) has now been granted, but for only Friday and Saturday nights. Whilst drinking may take place in the said zone until 23:00, the patio heaters must be extinguished at 22:00.
For Sunday through to Thursday nights, the current restrictions remain unchanged.
Fullers may, of course, appeal against this decision. Equally, if it turns out that the newly extended hours cause a nuisance, residents may object and the extension could then be revoked.

Environmental Goings On.....? READ MORE

The School Run To Four Lanes
A governor working party lead by infant school members has been spending many hours preparing a school travel plan with a view to encouraging walking to school and generally ensuring the safety of children on and around the school site. READ MORE

Crockford Bridge
Is Crockford Bridge falling down? READ MORE

Neighbourhood Watch Schemes Double
NHW schemes in Chineham have so far doubled this year and an open meeting is taking place at 7.30pm on 27th April at Chineham Village Hall. READ MORE

Accident at Four Lanes Schools
An 8 year old was taken to hospital after an accident outside Four Lanes Schools.
Read more in our READ MORE

Pergola Plans for the Chineham Arms
Brewery bosses have applied for planning permission to site a large external pergola at the Chineham Arms public house. READ MORE

Totem Away
Downland Housing Associations have - after some local public consultation - developed a scheme of local public art, which it is hoped will engage local young people. READ MORE

Taylor's Farm road change application refused.
Basingstoke Council have refused an application to delete the 'northern by-pass' from the Taylor's Farm development. READ MORE

Tesco Rubbish
Tesco is still failing to find either the resources or the will to restrain the massive pollution of the surroundings of the Chineham Shopping Centre. READ MORE

Community Centre 'on hold'
The new community centre serving Taylor's Farm has been placed on hold. READ MORE

The Chineham Arms - Change of License Conditions
Fullers Smith and Turner PLC, the owners of the Chineham Arms pub are seeking a change to a license condition. Currently drinking is permitted outside the premises until 10.00pm, and they are seeking to extend this to 11.30pm. It might be reasonable to suggest that this is connected with the new smoking laws.

Guinea Court Shops Install Access Ramp
After many years of pleading with the landlords at Guinea Court shops, the owners have finally conceded installation of an access ramp.

Simon's Road Play Area
Enhancements to the play area in Simon's Road are nearing completion

Allotments
Chineham Parish Council are looking into how much need there could be in Chineham for allotments. Anyone interested in the chance to grow their own can email the parish clerk - Clerk@chineham.gov.uk

A Hedge Too Far
Network Rail is now enemy number one with many residents living just off Hanmore Road.

Chineham is Rubbish, Basingstoke Stinks
If that reflects your views, there will shortly be an opportunity for you to step in and help bring about some changes.as local elections take place on 3rd May 2007.

Taylors Farm Community Hall Plans
Consultation is taking place from 12th June to 21st July on the architects' floor plans and elevations for the new community facility at Taylor's Farm.
See consultation details on Council website here

Borough Council Election
Only 34% of Chineham's electorate cast their vote on 4th May. Independant Martin Biermann was re-elected to stand as an Independant councillor for Chineham - full Chineham election results

New Bobby for Chineham
PC Jim Charlton, is already getting to know the beat and can be contacted by e-mail on james.charlton@hampshire.pnn.police.uk

Taylor's Farm Community Hall
Taylor's Farm residents are being consulted on the provision of a community hall within that development. Sports clubs in Chineham are encouraged to become engaged in this process as the proposed new sports pitches and changing rooms are intended to address the current Chineham deficit and will hopefully provide a 'home' ground for many of the Chineham-based sports clubs.
Interested parties should contact either Sandy Pearcey at the borough council on (01256) 845666 or s.pearcey@basingstoke.gov.uk or the Spotlight team.

CHINEHAM NEWS ARCHIVE