News and Views
Faringdon montage by Al Cane
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Click Contact us to tell us your views, opinions and observations about local issues.
Do tell us Good News as well as being critical and please express any negative views without being rude or insulting. Please may I remind contributors that we require a valid email address or other contact details. Posts may be edited or deleted at the editor’s discretion You can read talking points back to 2002. Quite interesting to see whether issues are still the same now as in the past.
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Re: Open Meeting on closure of A417- 25/7/14
Sorry, but I was unable to atend the open meeting although I did sign the petition. What was the outcome of the meeting?
Stevie Wright
Sun hat found - 25/7/14
If you have lost your little girl's floppy pink sun hat, there was one in Ash Close earlier today that I picked up and put on a bush at the bottom end of the street, opposite Ferendune Court's doorway.
Fiona Merrick
Open Meeting re closure of A417 at Challow.Tuesday 22nd July- 20/7/14
Faringdon Corn Exchange, 7pm
Called to give everyone a chance to give their views as to whether OCC should approve the application for road closure.
A Senior Programme Manager from Network Rail will be there, along with the OCC Cabinet Member for Transport.
We now have nearly 1000 signatures, which is fantastic - thank you for your support. . http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
The public meeting is the last chance to put forward your views on this road closure with all key stakeholders present.
Please do come to the meeting and make sure your views on this closure are heard.
Distressed Animals - 20/7/14
Did anyone hear the sound of distressed animals at Tuckers Park on the evening of 19/7/14??? I'm sure I definitely heard several feline, tapir/warthog, raccoon, and maybe a coyote or chubacca? The noise was ghastly!
I was about to ring the RSPCA until my partner suggested that there may be a party taking place at the football club?
Name supplied
Re the 'Keep Clear' markings outside the library:- 19/7/14
'Keep clear markings are used to indicate to drivers where the highway should be kept clear of waiting or parked vehicles. This is to allow access to side roads or business and private entrances. These markings are advisory and not legally enforceable', and therefore cars parked in these areas, it is assumed, would not attract a parking ticket. Name supplied
Double Yellow Lines & Disabled Parking- 19/7/14
It is correct that people who are part of the Blue Badge scheme can park on double yellow lines but only if they aren't causing an obstuction. Parking where the buses need to pull up in Coxwell Street or in the 'Keep Clear' areas, especially outside the library should be stopped, whoever is driving.
There are few disabled parking places in the town, unfortunately the one outside Lloyds Bank and the one outside Budgens/Costa are usually being used by non badge holders, I suppose they think they won't be long but that doesn't help somebody who needs that space to help with their day to day tasks.
It all comes down to common sense and a bit of thought for others.
Name Supplied.
Parking Survey starts September - 19/7/14
Some of you may remember that Bloor agreed to pay £20k for a parking survey in Faringdon, (2009). VWHDC have said that this survey will take place in September and will include talking to local people and the Town Council. A contract has been awarded, so it should happen at last.
I believe it will cover all parking, not just off road (VWHDC car parks).
Oxfordshire is one of the few places in England where the police still have responsibility for on road parking enforcement. In most other places, the council has taken it over- and made use of car park wardens and equipment to carry out enforcement work . OCC/VWHDC don't want to take it over because they believe it will cost too much money.
I believe in most places it's self funding!.
However you can well imagine the uproar from those accustomed to parking illegally, if enforcement was done more regularly!
ED(GW)
Double Yellow Lines & Disabled Parking - 19/7/14
It is correct that people who are part of the Blue Badge scheme can park on double yellow lines but only if they aren't causing an obstruction. Parking where the buses need to pull up in Coxwell Street or in the 'Keep Clear' areas, especially outside the library should be stopped, whoever is driving.
There are few disabled parking places in the town, unfortunately the one outside Lloyds Bank and the one outside Budgens/Costa are usually being used by non badge holders, I suppose they think they won't be long but that doesn't help somebody who needs that space to help with their day to day tasks.
It all comes down to common sense and a bit of thought for others.
Name Supplied.
Lost Tesco bag - 19/7/14
My daughter left a Tesco carrier bag outside the small hall at Faringdon Community College. Inside it were black shorts, black leggings, black T-shirt and a Black Veil Brides T-shirt. It made its way to lost property but somebody else took it from there. My daughter is distraught at the loss of her favourite T-shirt and would like it returned please. My email address is franklinsmummy@gmail.com
Cheryl Hanrahan
Who is kidding who?- 19/7/14
So all the illegal parking in Faringdon does not exist?.Only disabled badge holders park on double yellow lines?.Wow that is a revelation.
I suggest the person who thinks this takes a walk around to check the cars with badges,not many I'm afraid.You my friend are just trying to justify those who chose to park illegally and who are causing obstruction to other road users.In some cases causing problems to other lawful road users and adding to congestion ie Coxwell Street where buses are restricted from free passage in that area.The point is parking on double yellow lines is an offence.Oh yes what by the way are traffic wardens? do you ever see one, do they exist in Faringdon?.Come to that do you ever see a Policeman or a Community service person in Faringdon?.If so why don't they issue parking tickets like they do everywhere else?.
Name supplied
Studio wanted - 19/7/14
We are looking for a small studio / shop to rent for our sewing events. This could be a room, a barn or stand alone building - we are open to ideas. Please get in touch by emailing becksieandlotty@hotmail.co.uk or calling 07841431219
Rebekah Pugh
The Rookery building - 18/7/14
As the owner of The Rookery on Arthur's Hill on Marlborough Street, I am trying to find any old pictures, pre 1990 of the building, to build up a history of it.
Any help or information would be appreciated. truccoshane@gmail.com
Shane Evans
FollyFest Clarification...and an apology...- 18/7/14
As chair of the FollyFest committee and one of several on it who are either serving or ex-serving members of Her Majesty's Armed Forces, I agree completely that the error to state D Day rather than the centenary is highly regrettable.
In our defence, this is a large committee who has individual responsibilities into many, many areas (the councils, local authorities, local resdients, businesses, clubs, societies, charities, volunteers etc.)
It isn't possible to double check everything that goes out and occasionally, someone will make an error which has an impact. This is one of those occasions.
Also in our defence, I would like to point out that although we have made this error, we have also:
1. Donated £100 to the W.I to dress the War Memorial which commemorates all of our war dead (and to some of us, more recent conflicts)
2. Invited representation from Help for Heroes, the Legion and the RAF Benevolent Fund - all of whom are enthusiastically taking part over the weekend at various points
3. Invited the RBL to lay standards and do a reading at the Open Air Church Service which was also instigated by us. This may not happen as the Legion are concentrating their focus on 4th August but are delighted by our acknowledgement of the memorial and our keeness to involve them.
I am sorry this error got through, it pains me too. It should in no way be seen as disrespectful however, of our respect for the occasion, the dead of all conflicts and those veterans still suffering now.
We will amend where we can immediately and trust we can provide Faringdon, once again with an inclusive community event (preferably with the sun out).
We look forward to seeing you all there
Mel Lane FollyFest Chair
Re: what do double yellow lines mean.- 18/7/14
In fact disabled drivers with a blue badge are allowed to park on double yellow lines when the badge is displayed and a traffic warden would monitor parking, not the police.
Name supplied
100 Years start of The Great War.- 17/7/14
On the morning of Sunday the 3rd of August at the end of the Open Air Church service at FollyFest the Faringdon and District Branch of The Royal British Legion will be Laying a Wreath to mark the Start of the First World War 100 years ago in 1914.
NOT 100 years of D-Day which is what has been written on the FollyFest entry in What's On, on this web site. 1st to 3rd August.
D-Day was 70 years ago on the 6th June 1944 and was honoured back in June.
Name Supplied
Ed(GW) Folly Fest- let me know if you want your information in Whats On changed
Neighbourhood alerts re theft- 17/7/14
Between Sunday 13th and Tuesday 15th July, offender(s) broke into sheds at the allotments in Lechlade Road, and stole a lawnmower and tools. The incidents occurred overnight.
Entry was gained by unscrewing hinges off doors and forcing locks.
On Wednesday 16th July, at 7.15pm, two male offenders attempted to steal mountain bikes from a garage in Coach Lane. They were disturbed and made off.
The same evening at approximately 7.45pm, a bike was stolen from a shed in Southampton Street. A white male suspect was seen and is described as 25/30 years old, 5’8” tall, stocky build with a bald head. He was wearing dark coloured trousers with green pads around the shins and a light coloured top.
If you have seen any suspicious looking people or vehicles in the area or have any information relating to this message please call the police on 101.
Alternatively if you have information but wish to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online@crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thames Valley Police
Declare UDI - 17/7/14
We should totally declare UDI, WWDC do absolutely nothing for Faringdon.
Brenda Matthews
Shrivenham bypass closure from 23/7 for 8 weeks - 17/7/14
If you look at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/a420-shrivenham-bypass-major-maintenance and scroll down, you can find maps of the routes the buses will take.
In essence the Swindon:Oxford bus will go straight through Shrivenham. The Oxford:Swindon bus will take a left along Majors Road and the Longcot Road and join Shrivenham High St at the mini roundabout. There is a map for heavy vehicles too.There will be speed limit changes too.
Ed
In support of our bus service - 17/7/14
When I moved to Faringdon less than 10 years ago, the last bus out of Oxford through the week was 7.50pm! In the last couple of years we've benefitted from a massive improvement in this service - if 10pm is too early, there is the option of the 11.30pm. No, this isn't perfect and there may not be a bus at exactly the time that would be most convenient, but that's because it's public transport. A bus that takes you from door to door at exactly the time you want while allowing you to have a drink is a taxi. You can get one of these to/from Oxford, but a return trip will cost you in the region of £100, not £6.50 (in fact, £6.50 buys you a day ticket for use on any Stagecoach bus in Swindon/Oxford in addition to the return trip from Faringdon). I believe there are discounts for groups. Worth a little inconvenience?
A better bus service will be gained by increased use of the one we have, not by complaining about it. In this time of widespread cuts to all public services, we should count ourselves lucky that we are seeing an improvement in our existing bus service - in stark contrast to the experience of many small towns and villages across the country.
Name supplied
Faringdon Play and Activity Day Saturday 19th July 2014 - 17/7/14
FREE ENTRANCE & FREE ACTIVITIES!
Go Kart, Party Vertigo Zorbing
Tricky Trails, Biking, Play Bus
Drumming Workshops, Youth Bus
Sensory Bus, Graffiti Wall
More Information : 01865 779474 martin.gillett@oxonplay.org.uk www.oxonplay.org.uk
Tucker Park, Faringdon 11.00am – 3.00pm
Activities for all ages and abilities
Disabled parking only on site
No childcare is provided
DEEP SEA DIVER - PORTWELL SEATING - IN PROGRESS PHOTOS - 17/7/14
Sculptor Tim Shutter has sent through a few more in-progress photos from his studio in London. We can now see the diver's helmet taking shape. See https://www.facebook.com/s10erd/media_set?set=a.10152563881119287.1073741828.836314286&
What do you think - If you added a pencil-thin moustache curving steeply skywards, does it begin to resemble Dali?
Pink Pigeons
Open Meeting re closure of A417 at Challow. Faringdon Corn Exchange, 7pm - 17/7/14
Called to give everyone a chance to discuss the proposal, get more detail on the mitigation solution and to give their views as to whether OCC should approve the application.
A Senior Programme Manager from Network Rail will be there, along with the OCC Cabinet Member for Transport. I will take the opportunity to present our petition against the closure. We now have nearly 1000 signatures, which is fantastic - thank you for your support. If we can raise 1000 by the time of the meeting that would be even more compelling. http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
The public meeting is the last chance to put forward your views on this road closure with all key stakeholders present.
Please do come to the meeting and make sure your views on this closure are heard.
Alex Meredith
Question- What do double yellow lines mean.- 16/7/14
Answer- No parking at ANY time.
However this does not apply in Faringdon especially in Coxwell St
London St, Canada Lane to name but a few,
Old bill are far too busy chasing Bank robbers, murderers and all the other baddies living in the area to attempt to eliminate illegal parking. Which by the way in some cases is dangerous to other road users.
Name supplied
Neighbourhood Plan - 16/7/14
If the Neighbourhood Plan is accepted will we able to control the building plans now before the Council, if not why not.
Is there any way of putting these plans on hold until the Neighbourhood Plan comes in to action in 2015.
Old Faringdonian.
This Year's Ride and Stride Event for OHCT and St Giles, Great Coxwell - 14/7/14
I am taking part in this year's Ride and Stride event which this year takes place on Saturday 13th September. This sponsored event raises money for the Oxfordshire Historic Churches Trust. My church, St Giles, Great Coxwell receives half of the proceeds (see attached photo). I will be walking ("striding") round neighbouring churches and I hope you will be prepared to sponsor me for this event.
You can do this on line by visiting the website - http://www.justgiving.com/Mike-Heathcoat2 - and donating whatever you wish towards my target of £500. All proceeds can be gift-aided if that is your wish also. Those of you live who close to me in Great Coxwell can also contribute personally to me on my sponsor form, with or without gift aid in the same way.
I look forward with thanks to your help.
Mike
Neighbourhood Plan - 15/7/14
If more than 50% of people vote against the plan I would think it would have to be resubmitted.
If more than 50% vote for the plan, after a period of grace for objection, it will become part of planning law. Est March 2015
Mike Wise
Review of bladder and bowel services - 15/7/14
-Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) is currently reviewing the services that collectively meet the needs of patients with a bladder or bowel related condition (including incontinence) and are seeking patients who have experiences of bladder and bowel services to join a Patient Advisory Group.
Areas being reviewed within the Bladder and Bowel service include;
· Urinary incontinence
· Faecal incontinence
· Children’s incontinence
· Bladder and Bowel Service operated by Oxford Health
· Womens (and Mens) Physio
· Urology services
· Gynae and Urogynae services
· Colorectal service
· District Nurses (for those accessing bladder and bowel services who are housebound)
(The last few relate to services in addition to bladder and bowel issues. Many other people will have had experiences with these specialties but only those linked to bladder and bowel pathway issues are to be addressed during this project.)
In order to engage most effectively the Bladder and Bowel project is seeking to set up a Patient Advisory Group (PAG) to include patients and carers, particularly those who have experience of local Bladder and Bowel services within the last two years and those who have links with other patient groups and can bring the views of a wider patient population. The PAG will need to meet on three occasions during August/September for an estimated 2 hours each time as part of phase one to develop a business case – high level service model and contracting/procurement options.
If you would like to be involved with this piece of work, please could you contact me directly on 01865 334638 or by email julia.stackhouse@nhs.net, expressing how you have experienced the service in the last 2 years.
Review of ENT and Audiology services - 15/7/14
Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) is currently reviewing the services that collectively meet the needs of patients with an ear, nose or throat (ENT) or audiology related condition and are seeking patients who have experiences of ENT and Audiology services to join a Patient Advisory Group.
Areas being reviewed within the ENT and Audiology service include;
· Ears
· Nose
· Throat
· Hearing aids service (for over 55 years and under 55 years)
In order to engage most effectively the ENT and Audiology project is seeking to set up a Patient Advisory Group (PAG) to include patients and carers, particularly those who have experience of local ENT and Audiology services within the last two years and those who have links with other patient groups and can bring the views of a wider patient population. The PAG will need to meet on three occasions during August/September for an estimated 2 hours each time as part of phase one to develop a business case – high level service model and contracting/procurement options.
If you would like to be involved with this piece of work, please could you contact me directly on 01865 334638 or by email julia.stackhouse@nhs.net, expressing how you have experienced the service in the last 2 years.
Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan-15/7/14
Just out of interest in democracy- what happens if more than 50% of those voting, vote against it ?.
Does it get amended or still get pushed through against peoples wishes ( making the vote a waste of time).
Regards Mark
Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan timetable - 15/7/14
Following the two public consultations the Neighbourhood Plan has been amended and together with other supporting documents will be submitted to the Vale of White Horse District Council, the local planning authority, to carry out a final check to ensure that the Neighbourhood Plan and all accompanying documents comply with legal requirements.
Once the District Council is satisfied that everything is in order, it will formally publicise that we have submitted a proposed Neighbourhood Plan. At this point those who live, work or carry on business in the area covered by the Neighbourhood Plan can submit further comments to the District Council, which will pass them on to the person undertaking the independent examination.
The examiner is appointed by the District Council in agreement with Faringdon Town Council and the arrangements for the examination will be decided by the examiner in consultation with both Councils.
The main purpose of the examination is to ensure that the Neighbourhood Plan: . Meets European obligations. . Has regard to national planning policies. . Is in general conformity with the strategic policies of the Local Plan.
The examiner will make an initial assessment of the information and indicate whether a public hearing is necessary. The examiner's report will then be sent to the District Council to decide whether it agrees with any modifications made by the examiner and whether the plan should proceed to referendum.
The District Council publishes the examiner's report and decision statement and there then follows a period during which legal challenges can be made to the Neighbourhood Plan.
Following this, the Democratic Services Team of the District Council organises a referendum for the electorate of Great Faringdon in which the following question is put: "Do you want the Local Planning Authority to use the Neighbourhood Plan to help decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?"
If 50% or more of those voting, vote in favour, then the plan can move forward to be 'made' by the District Council providing it does not contravene any Human Rights Conventions.
Once the Neighbourhood Plan has been adopted, planning applications will still be determined by the District Council in the normal way, but taking into account policies in the Neighbourhood Plan as well as the Local Plan.
Timetable:
After this, if more than 50% of people vote in favour in the referendum, the Neighbourhood Plan becomes part of Planning Law for Faringdon
Mike Wise
‘Lights Out’ - 15/7/14
"The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime"
It was on the eve of August 4th 1914 that the Foreign Secretary of the time, Sir Edward Grey, uttered these words as Britain officially entered the First World War. Exactly 100 years later The Royal British Legion are inviting millions of individuals, households and companies to join together in a national moment of reflection.
LIGHTS OUT is an initiative encouraging everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10pm and 11pm on August 4th 2014 - leaving only a single light or candle for this symbolic act of reflection and hope. On that night we will remember more than a million Commonwealth Service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War.
A short ceremony will be held at the Faringdon War Memorial, Market Place at 10.30 pm on the 4th August 2014 and we hope members of the community will join us in this act of commemoration, and pay our respects to all those who sacrificed their lives during this conflict.
If you require further information please contact the Branch Secretary Yvonne Belcher by email: belchershar@talktalk.net.http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/remembrance/ww1-centenary/lights-out
The Peaceful piano project - 15/7/14
Further to The Peaceful Piano Project in conjunction with Nicky Brown of Echodeco and the over 60's of Faringdon and the surrounds.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE PATCHES FOR OUR UPHOLSTERED PEACEFUL PIANO, WITH A CUPPA AND SOME COMPANY AND HELP COMPLETE THE PIANO, I AM HOLDING COMMUNITY PATCHWORK DAYS AT THE PUMP HOUSE PROJECT ON SWAN LANE
WEDS 16TH AND THURS 17TH JULY FROM 10AM -1PM
TUES 22ND, WEDS 23RD AND THURS 24TH 10AM-1PM
For further information please call Nicky Brown on 01367 240108
O2 Signal Problems in Faringdon- 14/7/14
Have the signal problem with Nokia 925 and giff gaff SIM and Moto G with O2 SIM, swapped the SIMS between phones, still have the problem. Only logical conclusion if others have this problem as well is that it is the O2 transmitter in Faringdon.
Both phones fine elsewhere!
The Consultant.
Cycling Sportive. Saturday 2nd August - 13/7/14
The local Faringdon based cycling group, Farcycles will be organising a second cycling sportive to coincide with the Follyfest following the success of last years event. The event will be held on Saturday 2nd August. There will be three routes and we are looking for volunteers to help as Marshalls for the route. If you can spare a few hours and play a valuable role in making this years event even better than last year. Please contact Gavin Hopkins via gavin@ghsafety.co.uk. full details can be provided.
A pre-event briefing will be held at the Bell on Tuesday 29th July 2014 from 7.00-7.45, we really hope you can support us. http://www.farcycles.org.uk/
Gavin Hopkins
A417 Closure. Public Meeting 22nd July - 13/7/14
Network Rail has released its formal application for closure of the A417. The NR proposal raises a number of important questions.
1. The closure is scheduled for 6th September for 'approximately 4 months'. The lack of certainty is ominous though not unexpected.
2. The diversion plans show (as expected) that the main diversion will be via the A420/A415/A338. These roads are already overcrowded and jammed at peak times. The A338 will be dealing with the upgrades to its bridge at the same time so welcoming up to 7000 additional vehicles will be a huge challenge for those using the road.
3. There is a one-way 'mitigation option' through Kingston Lisle, but it is not clear when/if it will be brought into action (described as 'if required'). This idea appears to have been drawn on a map with a felt-tip, so one wonders how much consideration this plan has actually received.
4. Denchworth is marked as 'Access Only' but again it is hard to tell whether there will be a serious attempt to protect small villages with single track roads from the inevitable attempts to cut through in both directions.
It is ridiculous that we have been put in this position - Network Rail has had 5 years to come up with a way to upgrade the bridge without closing the road. The idea that the 'only viable option' is a 4 month complete closure is unconvincing. Also the idea that this work will be completed on schedule through the winter seems unlikely to me. On a procedural level I am also disappointed by the apparent way that OCC officers cut a deal with NR to close this bridge in exchange for a new bridge on the A338.
The public meeting at 7pm on 22nd July at Faringdon Corn Exchange has been called to give everyone a chance to discuss the proposal, get more detail on the mitigation solution and to give their views as to whether OCC should approve the application. This should be a 'consultation' after all!
A Senior Programme Manager from Network Rail will be there, along with the OCC Cabinet Member for Transport. I will take the opportunity to present our petition against the closure. We now have nearly 900 signatures, which is fantastic - thank you for your support. If we can raise 1000 by the time of the meeting that would be even more compelling. http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
The public meeting is the last chance to put forward your views on this road closure with all key stakeholders present. Please do come to the meeting and make sure your views on this closure are heard.
Alex Meredith
Brown tabby cat found - 13/7/14
we have found a young (probably less than 1 year old) brown tabby cat in a neighbour's garden on the new Folly Park Estate (Gilligans Way) It was very hungry, but has now been fed and watered and we are looking after it in our garage as we already have 2 cats in our own house. we will take it to the vets tomorrow (Monday) to be scanned for a chip. If you think it may be yours, please leave a note on this forum so we can contact you. thanks!
Sue
Lop eared rabbit found - 13/7/14
Has anyone living near Canada Lane lost a rabbit? We have found a beautiful lop-eared rabbit who is very tame and a bit shell-shocked. It would be great to reunite them with their home very soon!
Josie Miller
Let's leave the Vale - 12/7/14
Oh Thomas I am with you on that one. Do you think the powers that be will allow us to make our own decisions on how we think this lovely town should be run.
Old Faringdonian.
Network rail meeting - 11/7/14
Unfortunately I was not able to make these meetings but did anything of subsnatnce come out of them?
Owen Brazil
ED(GW) They said to me this was the only way. I got the impression that the utility companies need a good deal of time- and will not commit to a particular schedhule. Residents nearby, I was told, means that overnight working is not possible. It was not known how the bus service would be affected. I forgot to ask about ambulances, which I believe sometimes come from Wantage.
FTC are arranging an open meeting with Network Rail- I suspect we'll get details soon
Sorry, but I was unable to atend the open meeting although I did sign the petition. What was the outcome of the meeting?
Stevie Wright
Sun hat found - 25/7/14
If you have lost your little girl's floppy pink sun hat, there was one in Ash Close earlier today that I picked up and put on a bush at the bottom end of the street, opposite Ferendune Court's doorway.
Fiona Merrick
Open Meeting re closure of A417 at Challow.Tuesday 22nd July- 20/7/14
Faringdon Corn Exchange, 7pm
Called to give everyone a chance to give their views as to whether OCC should approve the application for road closure.
A Senior Programme Manager from Network Rail will be there, along with the OCC Cabinet Member for Transport.
We now have nearly 1000 signatures, which is fantastic - thank you for your support. . http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
The public meeting is the last chance to put forward your views on this road closure with all key stakeholders present.
Please do come to the meeting and make sure your views on this closure are heard.
Distressed Animals - 20/7/14
Did anyone hear the sound of distressed animals at Tuckers Park on the evening of 19/7/14??? I'm sure I definitely heard several feline, tapir/warthog, raccoon, and maybe a coyote or chubacca? The noise was ghastly!
I was about to ring the RSPCA until my partner suggested that there may be a party taking place at the football club?
Name supplied
Re the 'Keep Clear' markings outside the library:- 19/7/14
'Keep clear markings are used to indicate to drivers where the highway should be kept clear of waiting or parked vehicles. This is to allow access to side roads or business and private entrances. These markings are advisory and not legally enforceable', and therefore cars parked in these areas, it is assumed, would not attract a parking ticket. Name supplied
Double Yellow Lines & Disabled Parking- 19/7/14
It is correct that people who are part of the Blue Badge scheme can park on double yellow lines but only if they aren't causing an obstuction. Parking where the buses need to pull up in Coxwell Street or in the 'Keep Clear' areas, especially outside the library should be stopped, whoever is driving.
There are few disabled parking places in the town, unfortunately the one outside Lloyds Bank and the one outside Budgens/Costa are usually being used by non badge holders, I suppose they think they won't be long but that doesn't help somebody who needs that space to help with their day to day tasks.
It all comes down to common sense and a bit of thought for others.
Name Supplied.
Parking Survey starts September - 19/7/14
Some of you may remember that Bloor agreed to pay £20k for a parking survey in Faringdon, (2009). VWHDC have said that this survey will take place in September and will include talking to local people and the Town Council. A contract has been awarded, so it should happen at last.
I believe it will cover all parking, not just off road (VWHDC car parks).
Oxfordshire is one of the few places in England where the police still have responsibility for on road parking enforcement. In most other places, the council has taken it over- and made use of car park wardens and equipment to carry out enforcement work . OCC/VWHDC don't want to take it over because they believe it will cost too much money.
I believe in most places it's self funding!.
However you can well imagine the uproar from those accustomed to parking illegally, if enforcement was done more regularly!
ED(GW)
Double Yellow Lines & Disabled Parking - 19/7/14
It is correct that people who are part of the Blue Badge scheme can park on double yellow lines but only if they aren't causing an obstruction. Parking where the buses need to pull up in Coxwell Street or in the 'Keep Clear' areas, especially outside the library should be stopped, whoever is driving.
There are few disabled parking places in the town, unfortunately the one outside Lloyds Bank and the one outside Budgens/Costa are usually being used by non badge holders, I suppose they think they won't be long but that doesn't help somebody who needs that space to help with their day to day tasks.
It all comes down to common sense and a bit of thought for others.
Name Supplied.
Lost Tesco bag - 19/7/14
My daughter left a Tesco carrier bag outside the small hall at Faringdon Community College. Inside it were black shorts, black leggings, black T-shirt and a Black Veil Brides T-shirt. It made its way to lost property but somebody else took it from there. My daughter is distraught at the loss of her favourite T-shirt and would like it returned please. My email address is franklinsmummy@gmail.com
Cheryl Hanrahan
Who is kidding who?- 19/7/14
So all the illegal parking in Faringdon does not exist?.Only disabled badge holders park on double yellow lines?.Wow that is a revelation.
I suggest the person who thinks this takes a walk around to check the cars with badges,not many I'm afraid.You my friend are just trying to justify those who chose to park illegally and who are causing obstruction to other road users.In some cases causing problems to other lawful road users and adding to congestion ie Coxwell Street where buses are restricted from free passage in that area.The point is parking on double yellow lines is an offence.Oh yes what by the way are traffic wardens? do you ever see one, do they exist in Faringdon?.Come to that do you ever see a Policeman or a Community service person in Faringdon?.If so why don't they issue parking tickets like they do everywhere else?.
Name supplied
Studio wanted - 19/7/14
We are looking for a small studio / shop to rent for our sewing events. This could be a room, a barn or stand alone building - we are open to ideas. Please get in touch by emailing becksieandlotty@hotmail.co.uk or calling 07841431219
Rebekah Pugh
The Rookery building - 18/7/14
As the owner of The Rookery on Arthur's Hill on Marlborough Street, I am trying to find any old pictures, pre 1990 of the building, to build up a history of it.
Any help or information would be appreciated. truccoshane@gmail.com
Shane Evans
FollyFest Clarification...and an apology...- 18/7/14
As chair of the FollyFest committee and one of several on it who are either serving or ex-serving members of Her Majesty's Armed Forces, I agree completely that the error to state D Day rather than the centenary is highly regrettable.
In our defence, this is a large committee who has individual responsibilities into many, many areas (the councils, local authorities, local resdients, businesses, clubs, societies, charities, volunteers etc.)
It isn't possible to double check everything that goes out and occasionally, someone will make an error which has an impact. This is one of those occasions.
Also in our defence, I would like to point out that although we have made this error, we have also:
1. Donated £100 to the W.I to dress the War Memorial which commemorates all of our war dead (and to some of us, more recent conflicts)
2. Invited representation from Help for Heroes, the Legion and the RAF Benevolent Fund - all of whom are enthusiastically taking part over the weekend at various points
3. Invited the RBL to lay standards and do a reading at the Open Air Church Service which was also instigated by us. This may not happen as the Legion are concentrating their focus on 4th August but are delighted by our acknowledgement of the memorial and our keeness to involve them.
I am sorry this error got through, it pains me too. It should in no way be seen as disrespectful however, of our respect for the occasion, the dead of all conflicts and those veterans still suffering now.
We will amend where we can immediately and trust we can provide Faringdon, once again with an inclusive community event (preferably with the sun out).
We look forward to seeing you all there
Mel Lane FollyFest Chair
Re: what do double yellow lines mean.- 18/7/14
In fact disabled drivers with a blue badge are allowed to park on double yellow lines when the badge is displayed and a traffic warden would monitor parking, not the police.
Name supplied
100 Years start of The Great War.- 17/7/14
On the morning of Sunday the 3rd of August at the end of the Open Air Church service at FollyFest the Faringdon and District Branch of The Royal British Legion will be Laying a Wreath to mark the Start of the First World War 100 years ago in 1914.
NOT 100 years of D-Day which is what has been written on the FollyFest entry in What's On, on this web site. 1st to 3rd August.
D-Day was 70 years ago on the 6th June 1944 and was honoured back in June.
Name Supplied
Ed(GW) Folly Fest- let me know if you want your information in Whats On changed
Neighbourhood alerts re theft- 17/7/14
Between Sunday 13th and Tuesday 15th July, offender(s) broke into sheds at the allotments in Lechlade Road, and stole a lawnmower and tools. The incidents occurred overnight.
Entry was gained by unscrewing hinges off doors and forcing locks.
On Wednesday 16th July, at 7.15pm, two male offenders attempted to steal mountain bikes from a garage in Coach Lane. They were disturbed and made off.
The same evening at approximately 7.45pm, a bike was stolen from a shed in Southampton Street. A white male suspect was seen and is described as 25/30 years old, 5’8” tall, stocky build with a bald head. He was wearing dark coloured trousers with green pads around the shins and a light coloured top.
If you have seen any suspicious looking people or vehicles in the area or have any information relating to this message please call the police on 101.
Alternatively if you have information but wish to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online@crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thames Valley Police
Declare UDI - 17/7/14
We should totally declare UDI, WWDC do absolutely nothing for Faringdon.
Brenda Matthews
Shrivenham bypass closure from 23/7 for 8 weeks - 17/7/14
If you look at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/a420-shrivenham-bypass-major-maintenance and scroll down, you can find maps of the routes the buses will take.
In essence the Swindon:Oxford bus will go straight through Shrivenham. The Oxford:Swindon bus will take a left along Majors Road and the Longcot Road and join Shrivenham High St at the mini roundabout. There is a map for heavy vehicles too.There will be speed limit changes too.
Ed
In support of our bus service - 17/7/14
When I moved to Faringdon less than 10 years ago, the last bus out of Oxford through the week was 7.50pm! In the last couple of years we've benefitted from a massive improvement in this service - if 10pm is too early, there is the option of the 11.30pm. No, this isn't perfect and there may not be a bus at exactly the time that would be most convenient, but that's because it's public transport. A bus that takes you from door to door at exactly the time you want while allowing you to have a drink is a taxi. You can get one of these to/from Oxford, but a return trip will cost you in the region of £100, not £6.50 (in fact, £6.50 buys you a day ticket for use on any Stagecoach bus in Swindon/Oxford in addition to the return trip from Faringdon). I believe there are discounts for groups. Worth a little inconvenience?
A better bus service will be gained by increased use of the one we have, not by complaining about it. In this time of widespread cuts to all public services, we should count ourselves lucky that we are seeing an improvement in our existing bus service - in stark contrast to the experience of many small towns and villages across the country.
Name supplied
Faringdon Play and Activity Day Saturday 19th July 2014 - 17/7/14
FREE ENTRANCE & FREE ACTIVITIES!
Go Kart, Party Vertigo Zorbing
Tricky Trails, Biking, Play Bus
Drumming Workshops, Youth Bus
Sensory Bus, Graffiti Wall
More Information : 01865 779474 martin.gillett@oxonplay.org.uk www.oxonplay.org.uk
Tucker Park, Faringdon 11.00am – 3.00pm
Activities for all ages and abilities
Disabled parking only on site
No childcare is provided
DEEP SEA DIVER - PORTWELL SEATING - IN PROGRESS PHOTOS - 17/7/14
Sculptor Tim Shutter has sent through a few more in-progress photos from his studio in London. We can now see the diver's helmet taking shape. See https://www.facebook.com/s10erd/media_set?set=a.10152563881119287.1073741828.836314286&
What do you think - If you added a pencil-thin moustache curving steeply skywards, does it begin to resemble Dali?
Pink Pigeons
Open Meeting re closure of A417 at Challow. Faringdon Corn Exchange, 7pm - 17/7/14
Called to give everyone a chance to discuss the proposal, get more detail on the mitigation solution and to give their views as to whether OCC should approve the application.
A Senior Programme Manager from Network Rail will be there, along with the OCC Cabinet Member for Transport. I will take the opportunity to present our petition against the closure. We now have nearly 1000 signatures, which is fantastic - thank you for your support. If we can raise 1000 by the time of the meeting that would be even more compelling. http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
The public meeting is the last chance to put forward your views on this road closure with all key stakeholders present.
Please do come to the meeting and make sure your views on this closure are heard.
Alex Meredith
Question- What do double yellow lines mean.- 16/7/14
Answer- No parking at ANY time.
However this does not apply in Faringdon especially in Coxwell St
London St, Canada Lane to name but a few,
Old bill are far too busy chasing Bank robbers, murderers and all the other baddies living in the area to attempt to eliminate illegal parking. Which by the way in some cases is dangerous to other road users.
Name supplied
Neighbourhood Plan - 16/7/14
If the Neighbourhood Plan is accepted will we able to control the building plans now before the Council, if not why not.
Is there any way of putting these plans on hold until the Neighbourhood Plan comes in to action in 2015.
Old Faringdonian.
This Year's Ride and Stride Event for OHCT and St Giles, Great Coxwell - 14/7/14
I am taking part in this year's Ride and Stride event which this year takes place on Saturday 13th September. This sponsored event raises money for the Oxfordshire Historic Churches Trust. My church, St Giles, Great Coxwell receives half of the proceeds (see attached photo). I will be walking ("striding") round neighbouring churches and I hope you will be prepared to sponsor me for this event.
You can do this on line by visiting the website - http://www.justgiving.com/Mike-Heathcoat2 - and donating whatever you wish towards my target of £500. All proceeds can be gift-aided if that is your wish also. Those of you live who close to me in Great Coxwell can also contribute personally to me on my sponsor form, with or without gift aid in the same way.
I look forward with thanks to your help.
Mike
Neighbourhood Plan - 15/7/14
If more than 50% of people vote against the plan I would think it would have to be resubmitted.
If more than 50% vote for the plan, after a period of grace for objection, it will become part of planning law. Est March 2015
Mike Wise
Review of bladder and bowel services - 15/7/14
-Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) is currently reviewing the services that collectively meet the needs of patients with a bladder or bowel related condition (including incontinence) and are seeking patients who have experiences of bladder and bowel services to join a Patient Advisory Group.
Areas being reviewed within the Bladder and Bowel service include;
· Urinary incontinence
· Faecal incontinence
· Children’s incontinence
· Bladder and Bowel Service operated by Oxford Health
· Womens (and Mens) Physio
· Urology services
· Gynae and Urogynae services
· Colorectal service
· District Nurses (for those accessing bladder and bowel services who are housebound)
(The last few relate to services in addition to bladder and bowel issues. Many other people will have had experiences with these specialties but only those linked to bladder and bowel pathway issues are to be addressed during this project.)
In order to engage most effectively the Bladder and Bowel project is seeking to set up a Patient Advisory Group (PAG) to include patients and carers, particularly those who have experience of local Bladder and Bowel services within the last two years and those who have links with other patient groups and can bring the views of a wider patient population. The PAG will need to meet on three occasions during August/September for an estimated 2 hours each time as part of phase one to develop a business case – high level service model and contracting/procurement options.
If you would like to be involved with this piece of work, please could you contact me directly on 01865 334638 or by email julia.stackhouse@nhs.net, expressing how you have experienced the service in the last 2 years.
Review of ENT and Audiology services - 15/7/14
Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) is currently reviewing the services that collectively meet the needs of patients with an ear, nose or throat (ENT) or audiology related condition and are seeking patients who have experiences of ENT and Audiology services to join a Patient Advisory Group.
Areas being reviewed within the ENT and Audiology service include;
· Ears
· Nose
· Throat
· Hearing aids service (for over 55 years and under 55 years)
In order to engage most effectively the ENT and Audiology project is seeking to set up a Patient Advisory Group (PAG) to include patients and carers, particularly those who have experience of local ENT and Audiology services within the last two years and those who have links with other patient groups and can bring the views of a wider patient population. The PAG will need to meet on three occasions during August/September for an estimated 2 hours each time as part of phase one to develop a business case – high level service model and contracting/procurement options.
If you would like to be involved with this piece of work, please could you contact me directly on 01865 334638 or by email julia.stackhouse@nhs.net, expressing how you have experienced the service in the last 2 years.
Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan-15/7/14
Just out of interest in democracy- what happens if more than 50% of those voting, vote against it ?.
Does it get amended or still get pushed through against peoples wishes ( making the vote a waste of time).
Regards Mark
Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan timetable - 15/7/14
Following the two public consultations the Neighbourhood Plan has been amended and together with other supporting documents will be submitted to the Vale of White Horse District Council, the local planning authority, to carry out a final check to ensure that the Neighbourhood Plan and all accompanying documents comply with legal requirements.
Once the District Council is satisfied that everything is in order, it will formally publicise that we have submitted a proposed Neighbourhood Plan. At this point those who live, work or carry on business in the area covered by the Neighbourhood Plan can submit further comments to the District Council, which will pass them on to the person undertaking the independent examination.
The examiner is appointed by the District Council in agreement with Faringdon Town Council and the arrangements for the examination will be decided by the examiner in consultation with both Councils.
The main purpose of the examination is to ensure that the Neighbourhood Plan: . Meets European obligations. . Has regard to national planning policies. . Is in general conformity with the strategic policies of the Local Plan.
The examiner will make an initial assessment of the information and indicate whether a public hearing is necessary. The examiner's report will then be sent to the District Council to decide whether it agrees with any modifications made by the examiner and whether the plan should proceed to referendum.
The District Council publishes the examiner's report and decision statement and there then follows a period during which legal challenges can be made to the Neighbourhood Plan.
Following this, the Democratic Services Team of the District Council organises a referendum for the electorate of Great Faringdon in which the following question is put: "Do you want the Local Planning Authority to use the Neighbourhood Plan to help decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?"
If 50% or more of those voting, vote in favour, then the plan can move forward to be 'made' by the District Council providing it does not contravene any Human Rights Conventions.
Once the Neighbourhood Plan has been adopted, planning applications will still be determined by the District Council in the normal way, but taking into account policies in the Neighbourhood Plan as well as the Local Plan.
Timetable:
- Submission of the Neighbourhood Plan to the Vale of White Horse District Council: July 2014
- Formal consultation on submission version of the Neighbourhood Plan: July 2014 -September 2014
- Independent examination of the Neighbourhood Plan to test for soundness: September 2014 - October 2014
- Consideration of examiner's report by Vale of White Horse District Council: October 2014 - December 2014
- Referendum on the Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan; January 2015
After this, if more than 50% of people vote in favour in the referendum, the Neighbourhood Plan becomes part of Planning Law for Faringdon
Mike Wise
‘Lights Out’ - 15/7/14
"The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime"
It was on the eve of August 4th 1914 that the Foreign Secretary of the time, Sir Edward Grey, uttered these words as Britain officially entered the First World War. Exactly 100 years later The Royal British Legion are inviting millions of individuals, households and companies to join together in a national moment of reflection.
LIGHTS OUT is an initiative encouraging everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10pm and 11pm on August 4th 2014 - leaving only a single light or candle for this symbolic act of reflection and hope. On that night we will remember more than a million Commonwealth Service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War.
A short ceremony will be held at the Faringdon War Memorial, Market Place at 10.30 pm on the 4th August 2014 and we hope members of the community will join us in this act of commemoration, and pay our respects to all those who sacrificed their lives during this conflict.
If you require further information please contact the Branch Secretary Yvonne Belcher by email: belchershar@talktalk.net.http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/remembrance/ww1-centenary/lights-out
The Peaceful piano project - 15/7/14
Further to The Peaceful Piano Project in conjunction with Nicky Brown of Echodeco and the over 60's of Faringdon and the surrounds.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE PATCHES FOR OUR UPHOLSTERED PEACEFUL PIANO, WITH A CUPPA AND SOME COMPANY AND HELP COMPLETE THE PIANO, I AM HOLDING COMMUNITY PATCHWORK DAYS AT THE PUMP HOUSE PROJECT ON SWAN LANE
WEDS 16TH AND THURS 17TH JULY FROM 10AM -1PM
TUES 22ND, WEDS 23RD AND THURS 24TH 10AM-1PM
For further information please call Nicky Brown on 01367 240108
O2 Signal Problems in Faringdon- 14/7/14
Have the signal problem with Nokia 925 and giff gaff SIM and Moto G with O2 SIM, swapped the SIMS between phones, still have the problem. Only logical conclusion if others have this problem as well is that it is the O2 transmitter in Faringdon.
Both phones fine elsewhere!
The Consultant.
Cycling Sportive. Saturday 2nd August - 13/7/14
The local Faringdon based cycling group, Farcycles will be organising a second cycling sportive to coincide with the Follyfest following the success of last years event. The event will be held on Saturday 2nd August. There will be three routes and we are looking for volunteers to help as Marshalls for the route. If you can spare a few hours and play a valuable role in making this years event even better than last year. Please contact Gavin Hopkins via gavin@ghsafety.co.uk. full details can be provided.
A pre-event briefing will be held at the Bell on Tuesday 29th July 2014 from 7.00-7.45, we really hope you can support us. http://www.farcycles.org.uk/
Gavin Hopkins
A417 Closure. Public Meeting 22nd July - 13/7/14
Network Rail has released its formal application for closure of the A417. The NR proposal raises a number of important questions.
1. The closure is scheduled for 6th September for 'approximately 4 months'. The lack of certainty is ominous though not unexpected.
2. The diversion plans show (as expected) that the main diversion will be via the A420/A415/A338. These roads are already overcrowded and jammed at peak times. The A338 will be dealing with the upgrades to its bridge at the same time so welcoming up to 7000 additional vehicles will be a huge challenge for those using the road.
3. There is a one-way 'mitigation option' through Kingston Lisle, but it is not clear when/if it will be brought into action (described as 'if required'). This idea appears to have been drawn on a map with a felt-tip, so one wonders how much consideration this plan has actually received.
4. Denchworth is marked as 'Access Only' but again it is hard to tell whether there will be a serious attempt to protect small villages with single track roads from the inevitable attempts to cut through in both directions.
It is ridiculous that we have been put in this position - Network Rail has had 5 years to come up with a way to upgrade the bridge without closing the road. The idea that the 'only viable option' is a 4 month complete closure is unconvincing. Also the idea that this work will be completed on schedule through the winter seems unlikely to me. On a procedural level I am also disappointed by the apparent way that OCC officers cut a deal with NR to close this bridge in exchange for a new bridge on the A338.
The public meeting at 7pm on 22nd July at Faringdon Corn Exchange has been called to give everyone a chance to discuss the proposal, get more detail on the mitigation solution and to give their views as to whether OCC should approve the application. This should be a 'consultation' after all!
A Senior Programme Manager from Network Rail will be there, along with the OCC Cabinet Member for Transport. I will take the opportunity to present our petition against the closure. We now have nearly 900 signatures, which is fantastic - thank you for your support. If we can raise 1000 by the time of the meeting that would be even more compelling. http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
The public meeting is the last chance to put forward your views on this road closure with all key stakeholders present. Please do come to the meeting and make sure your views on this closure are heard.
Alex Meredith
Brown tabby cat found - 13/7/14
we have found a young (probably less than 1 year old) brown tabby cat in a neighbour's garden on the new Folly Park Estate (Gilligans Way) It was very hungry, but has now been fed and watered and we are looking after it in our garage as we already have 2 cats in our own house. we will take it to the vets tomorrow (Monday) to be scanned for a chip. If you think it may be yours, please leave a note on this forum so we can contact you. thanks!
Sue
Lop eared rabbit found - 13/7/14
Has anyone living near Canada Lane lost a rabbit? We have found a beautiful lop-eared rabbit who is very tame and a bit shell-shocked. It would be great to reunite them with their home very soon!
Josie Miller
Let's leave the Vale - 12/7/14
Oh Thomas I am with you on that one. Do you think the powers that be will allow us to make our own decisions on how we think this lovely town should be run.
Old Faringdonian.
Network rail meeting - 11/7/14
Unfortunately I was not able to make these meetings but did anything of subsnatnce come out of them?
Owen Brazil
ED(GW) They said to me this was the only way. I got the impression that the utility companies need a good deal of time- and will not commit to a particular schedhule. Residents nearby, I was told, means that overnight working is not possible. It was not known how the bus service would be affected. I forgot to ask about ambulances, which I believe sometimes come from Wantage.
FTC are arranging an open meeting with Network Rail- I suspect we'll get details soon
Stones for Diver - 11/7/14
Tim Shutter, the nationally acclaimed sculptor who is working on the "Dali Diver" for the Portwell seating, has just taken delivery of the stones so that he can now start work on the diver in his studio in London. Click the picture for a bigger image |
Cycling - 11/7/14
There are four rides this week, all of which start from Faringdon Market place. These are
Route files are available from the facebook page for satnav users. Dust off your bike uses the Green route and Violet uses the Red route.
Explanation of codes:
OOO: All off road - Mountain bikes only
ROO: Mostly off road (short road bits to connect the dirty stuff) - Mountain bikes preferred, hybrids at a stretch
RRO: Mostly on road (short dirty bits to avoid busy roads) - Hybrids and tourers would be best
RRR: All on road - Road bikes prevail
http://www.farcycles.org.uk/
Re: Can we get out of the Vale Council - 11/7/14
He,he. To Thomas Tankengine. You mean declaring UDI? Now that's an idea.
Green Witch
Can we get out of the Vale Council? - 11/7/14
Is there any way we can get out of being part of the Vale of the White Horse?. It seems pretty apparent that they care little about (and have scant knowledge of) Faringdon & that only Abingdon, Wantage & Grove matter to them. Mind you our member of parliament seems to take the "Didcot & Wantage" literally as well.
Thomas Tankengine
Would you like to gain a training qualification? - 11/7/14
OCVA may have the opportunity to run an Award in Education & Training Level 3 (previosuly PTLLS) delivered by the Abingdon and Witney College. This is an industry standard award for anyone teaching in the post 16 sector and the first step towards Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status. It is an introductory qualification for those who are about to embark on teaching (or who are currently delivery training without a qualification) and need to gain a basic toolkit of teaching and learning strategies. Entry is subject to an interview.
If we receive enough expressions of interest the participants will be able to choose how the course is delivered. The options could be:
To register your interest in the course please email the OCVA Training Officer, Liz Pride on: liz.pride@ocva.org.uk by 14th July 2014.
Please let us know your name, telephone number, address and which delivery option you would prefer.
Patient Advisory Group for musculoskeletal services - 11/7/14
Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) is currently reviewing the services that collectively meet the needs of patients with a musculoskeletal (MSK) related condition and are seeking patients who have experiences of musculoskeletal services to join a Patient Advisory Group.
Areas being reviewed within the Musculoskeletal service include;
· Orthopaedics
· Rheumatology
· Podiatry
· Orthotics
· Acute Physiotherapy
· Rehab Physiotherapy
· Mental Health Physiotherapy
In order to engage most effectively the integrated MSK project is seeking to set up a Patient Advisory Group (PAG) to include patients and carers, particularly those who have experience of local musculoskeletal services within the last two years and those who have links with other patient groups and can bring the views of a wider patient population. The PAG will need to meet on four occasions during July/ August as part of phase one to develop a business case – high level service model and contracting/procurement options.
If you would like to be involved with this piece of work, please could you contact me directly on 01865 334638 or by email julia.stackhouse@nhs.net, expressing how you have experienced the service in the last 2 years
Survey- Improving services in GP practices - 10/7/14
Please participate in the Improving Services in GP practices consultation.
We would like to ask you some questions about how you use GP services and your views on developing them for the future.
'Transforming Primary Care' is one of five key programmes of work for Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG). Recently, people in Oxfordshire have been asked about their access to general practice by HealthWatch, our health partners. We will be working with them to review the findings of their survey.
The survey builds on the feedback OCCG received from patients, the public and our stakeholders during an engagement programme that we ran in Autumn last year as part of the national 'A Call to Action on General Practice'. This new survey seeks to expand on what we have already been told to help shape a future strategy to develop general practice.
You can complete the survey online, or print a form and send it in via Freepost. Both by 18th August 2014
Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG)
Buses- 10/7/14
Sorry but it is laughable to say the extended bus service will be helpful to theatre and concert goers. No concerts I go to ever finish before 10:30 and even then you have to cross town to reach the bus stops. We need a truly usable night bus.
Name Supplied
Free Bottles for stall - 10/7/14
If anyone is organising a fete in the near future, I have a box of nearly thirty assorted bottles surplus to requirements - water, soft drinks, fruit shoots etc. - which would form the basis for a bottle stall or tombola. Small donation to Faringdon Peace Group appreciated but not required.
Contact via this website
Humpty Appeal - 10/7/14
Thanks very much for the update. It was so frustrating not to be able to attend because of work but fingers crossed that it gets turned down.
Marion Lowers
ED(GW) I forgot to add that the objections to the development from people in Faringdon were not mentioned (I assume as these are not a planning issue) though Gladman's statement of community consultation did include them.
Does anyone else who attended the appeal any more comments?
O2 Signal - 10/7/14
Yes i have also been having problems with the 02 signal droping from full to zero (emergency only) , my phone works fine at work or any where apart from when i'm at home in faringdon, and i can actully see the antenna on top of the station from my house, i contacted o2 through the guru chat on there page, and was told that the mast is fine its my phone, i explaned that it worked fine every where else, and was just told they would send another sim for the phone so was prety much fobed off. its exactly the same time last year i was having the same problem, and see workmen fixing the antanna. then it worked fine until now.
Name supplied
Humpty Appeal Hearing - 10/7/14
I spent some time at the Humpty Appeal- a mix of boredom/fascination/irritation
The nub of the appeal seems to me:
The VWHDC barrister was excellent. She exposed the fact that the outline map in the original application had been changed (changing the location of the houses on the site, such that the view will be affected more) as a result of a 2nd Environmental study (the 1st was in December 2012)
It seems the content of the Design and Access statement doesn't now match the new map.
No mention in it of the need for a pumping station and tanks for foul water and drainage (due to the topology of the site), nor was they any map showing where it would be.
There was much talk about the preservation of the areas of high biodiversity (but not designated as such). Seems as if this will involve 'translocation' to another part of the site, which in turn involves 'cut and fill'. Nothing about this in the original application. Gladman argued that as the field is not managed for biodiversity ( ie it's for hay).Biodiversity will be improved as a result of the development. There will be a management plan for the designated open spaces. They argued that only the footpath was public space, the field is privately owned and therefore irrelevant as an amenity.
Rob Stewart spoke well about the Town Green Application. I think it was tactical that Gladman's barrister did not ask him any questions. It seems determining the Town Green application could delay any building by up to a year. Not good for Gladman who are the promoters of the site. They hope to sell the land with planning permission. The more risk of building not being possible within a reasonable time frame will affect the selling price of the land- and I guess their fee.
Similarly Gladman were arguing against having a condition that prevents any occupation of houses until the sewage system is upgraded.
Thames Water said they have applied for government funds, and seek to have the sewage system upgraded by April 2017. They are not seeking contributions from this or any other developers.
The appeal documents included a March 2013 copy of the Neighbourhood Plan. It was evident that they were disregarding it as it was thought to be in its early stages of development. This view was corrected, and the Planning Inspector was given uptodate (now finalised) Neighbourhood Plan and Evidence base.
Conditions/106
There was a lengthy discussion, where, on the whole Gladman were opposed to items other than the statutory services- schools, social services.
VWHDC requested ££ for improvements at the leisure centre, including an artificial pitch ( I think football only, not multi use). They said that the Leisure Centre is now outdated and needs considerable work.. No mention of the change from SOLL to GL as the contractor was made.
They also asked for ££ for a new Football Club pavilion (£17k I think). Gladman's view was that as this is not a VWHDC building, it was not eligible.
Oxfordshire County Council, as well as for schools, asked for a contribution to a new Adult learning facility at Grove. He said 'there is a good bus service'. Mike Wise put him right.
They also asked for contribution to a day centre - also at Grove. Mike Wise gave the Faringdon view on this, indicating more services in Faringdon are needed.
Mike talked about the Faringdon Town Council list of for 106 contributions. However he was not supported by VWHDC and Gladman said they had not been through the necessary process for 106 agreements. VWHDC did not include FTC in their pre appeal discussions with the developer.
The Planning Inspector will decide what 106 contributions are acceptable, if development is allowed.
The decision will be ' a few weeks'
I'm slightly hopeful!
The first day of the meeting was very well attended by local people, and fairly well throughout the week- between 3 and 6/7 people.
The VWHDC barrister was Mary Cook, Gladman's John Barratt, and the inspector was Anthony Lyman. Planning Inspectorate case but it's out of date.
ED(GW)
O2 Signal -10/7/14
Yes i have also been having problems with the 02 signal droping from full to zero (emergency only) , my phone works fine at work or any where apart from when i'm at home in faringdon, and i can actully see the antenna on top of the station from my house, i contacted o2 through the guru chat on there page, and was told that the mast is fine its my phone, i explaned that it worked fine every where else, and was just told they would send another sim for the phone so was prety much fobed off. its exactly the same time last year i was having the same problem, and see workmen fixing the antanna. then it worked fine until now.
Name supplied
GET SET FOR THE OXFORDSHIRE SCHOOL GAMES- 10/7/14
Schools from across Oxfordshire are set to descend on Abingdon for the Oxfordshire Sainsbury’s School Games Spring Festival sponsored by Abingdon School.
July 10th and July 11th 2014 will see up to 2000 young athletes from all schools take part in 33 competitions in athletics, basketball, football, hockey, netball, panathlon, and swimming. The winning school for each competition will be crowned Oxfordshire schools champions.
Host venues include Tilsley Park, White Horse Leisure & Tennis Centre, The Manor Preparatory School and Abingdon School.
With schools having qualified from local competitions organised by Oxfordshire’s network of School Games Organisers, the standard promises to be high and competition fierce.
Chris Freeman, Managing Director of the Oxfordshire Sports Partnership, said:
“Building on the great success of the past, this year’s Summer Festival promises to offer the young athletes of Oxfordshire the chance to showcase their talents. With young leaders supporting the delivery of all competitions, and pathways to transition to high-quality community sport, the Oxfordshire Sainsbury’s School Games programme provides the foundation to develop a habit of physical activity for life.”
The Oxfordshire Sainsbury’s School Games Summer Festival will take place on Wednesday 2nd April. For further information visit www.oxfordshiresport.org/School-Games or www.yourschoolgames.com
Oxfordshire Sports Partnership
Ice cream van driving me mad! - 9/7/14
Anyone else have a problem with the ice cream van in Faringdon and its musical chimes? All I seem to hear all day long at the weekends and from afternoon onwards weekdays is b***** popeye the sailor man - If I hear it one more time, I'll scream! ;)
Actually, Defra have the following code of practice under section 71 of the control of pollution act 1974. This van definitely breaks many of these, continually sounding his chimes over long periods of time...
Paul Gale
o2 Signal strength in Faringdon - 9/7/14
Has anyone else has a problem with signal strength from the o2 mast on the Fire Station in Faringdon?
I found my Nokia 925 dropping signal frequently in a static location up Stanford Road, so I blamed the phone and was going to send it back to Nokia under warranty, but it has a micro SIM so I needed another phone to continue to use my contract.
The Consultant
More buses - 9/7/14
It's great news about the additional evening bus at 22hrs from Oxford. However to call it a 'theatre' bus is something of a misnomer. Many of the evening performances at the Oxford Playhouse and the New Theatre end after 10pm, so theatre goers won't be any better off. A departure time of 22.30 would be much more helpful. I wonder if Stagecoach would be prepared to negotiate on this one?
Lynn Pettit
THE RAINBOW PEACE FETE AT COLESHILL - ANOTHER AMAZING AFTERNOON OF TRADITIONAL FUN!- 8/7/14
Quoting the well-known Buddist philosopher ( Anon) - "You can't have a rainbow without a little rain" ; we certainly had to make good use of the rolls of polythene sheeting on the saturday morning to keep things dry! But then the sun put its floppy hat on and shone down on another absolutely wonderful afternoon at the rainbow-themed Peace Fete in the beautiful grounds of Clockhouse, Coleshill. "This is what all Fetes should be like - absolutely perfect" - was one overheard quote.
Appropriately, human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell opened the Fete, first explaining that his crutches and broken foot were not the result of Mugabe's henchmen - but due to a simple argument with an escalator. After giving a thought-provoking and inspirational address, he then spent the rest of the afternoon sampling the array of delicious refreshments on offer, joining in the games and enjoying the live music and dancing.
For the children, the circus skills workshop was clearly one of the highlights. Many thanks to all the volunteers; to all the musicians who all gave freely of their time and talents; to Denny Andrews for again allowing us to use Clockhouse Gardens, and of course to everyone who came and enjoyed themselves. Hope to see you next year ; Saturday, July 4th, 2015 .
Humpty appeal update - 7/7/14
It's the last full day of the appeal Tue, 9.30. Gladmans Planning expert is tomorrow's witness. After being questioned by the VWHDC barrister, Rob Stewart, friends of Humpty Hill, will question him/her.
Following this will be a round table discussion on conditions (applicable if the appeal is upheld), then on Wednesday morning there will be a discussion about 106, planning gain. Faringdon Town Council will be included in this discussion.
ED(GW)
Thames Valley Police- 7/7/14
Read this months update for Faringdon from TVP
New Davis DIY - 6/7/14
Carl Booth ( Faringdon Motorist Centre) has opened a new DIY shop. It's where the mobility centre ( and in the 1960s WH Smith) used to be.
4A London St. 01367 240140.
It already looks well stocked and is soon to have a paint mixing machine.
Good Luck Carl
Ed(GW)
Faringdon Dramatic Society- long ago productions - 6/7/14
I am looking for programmes from long ago productions performed by Faringdon Dramatic Society. If you are a past member of the society or bought a programme at a play you went to see many years ago then please could you take a look at our archives http://www.faringdondramatic.org.uk/archives.htm from 1987 and below. If you have any of our programmes from that era could you please let me know - webmaster@faringdondramatic.org.uk
Ian Lee
Parking at Health Centre - 5/7/14
We are aware that there is a problem with parking, but don’t think that ‘outsiders’ parking here is actually a major issue. The Practice Manager gets in early most days and has been keeping an eye on it, and she usually recognises the cars as belonging to staff.
Part of the problem is that we definitely need more parking to accommodate our growing population, and it’s on the list of things to discuss with NHS England regarding the size and capacity of the building – so that’s in the pipeline. This will take time and we won’t happen anytime soon though.
However, the other major factor is that with more services being offered on site, we have more visiting clinicians travelling to the building more frequently – physiotherapists, podiatrists, health visitors (about 6 now and we used to have 2), district nurses (the teams have been merged and housed here rather than having a base in Shrivenham), midwives, psychiatric consultant and nurses, drug and alcohol counsellor, aortic aneurism screening staff, dieticians, speech therapists etc etc. Almost every day we have one or more additional clinics taking place and when these teams have meetings in the health education room too, the car park is inundated.
We try to encourage locally based staff to walk to work, and maybe we should try to encourage patients to use the community bus or to walk whenever possible. I know that this isn’t always possible for the elderly and disabled, but if a few patients walked rather than bringing their cars it would make a difference.
WHMP
Re: Helpful ambulance service - 5/7/14
I don't think anyone would criticise the fantastic work the Ambulance Service & First Responders do - the comments were more in criticism of the way these services are being stretched to a point that is beyond the hard-working crews. Statistics are often used as a justification to show that reduced or centralised services are working or satisfactory, so if the statistics prove that they are not something should be done to address that - the NHS is far from a bottomless pit, but I'd rather see them employ more ambulance crews rather than statisticians, image consultants etc.
Thomas Tankengine
Peaceful Piano Project - 5/7/14
Are you aged 60 years and live in Faringdon? If so I would love you to be part of The Peaceful Piano Project.
This is an upcoming community creative arts event happening in Faringdon as part of Folly Fest at the beginning of August.
The Peaceful Piano Project has taken 10 donated and unusable pianos and assigned each piano a local artist. That local artist has then been linked with a community group. The artist and group will work together to up-cycle these pianos into new works of art. Each piano is being sponsored by a local business. These 10 pianos will then be placed around the town to create a ‘Piano Path’ over Folly Fest weekend, creating an interactive art exhibition for the whole community.
I am Nicky Brown and I run my own craft business called Echodeco. I make a range of crafts which I sell and I run craft workshops, teaching ways to up-cycle unloved items and fabric to turn them into new treasures.
I have been assigned one of the pianos. Our piano is being supported by Faringdon Upholsterers and my community group is the over 60's.
If you over 60 years old and live in Faringdon or you know someone who is would like to invite you to work with me to create a piece of piano art.
My vision is to transform the piano so it looks like a button backed sofa.
The fabric will be made from many patchwork squares, each one different to the others and made by as many people as possible. I estimate that it will take at least 100 squares to cover the piano. (and a few more for the piano stool)
If you would like to take part, here are the details.
1. Any fabric, bead, button etc that you use MUST be re-cycled. Look in your wardrobe, sewing box, ask friends for materials or buy from Charity shops. Please do not buy anything brand new for this project.
2. You may use any material you like- cotton, knitted, crochet, lace, leather etc.
3. Squares may be embellished anyway you like- applique, beaded, ribbon, buttons, embroidery, handwriting etc.
4. Finished and hemmed squares must be 8 inches by 8 inches in size.
5. You make make as many squares as you like, so long as they are all different.
6. The date for completion of all squares is FRIDAY 18th JULY
Please call me if you need any further information or to collect your completed square (s) on 01367 240108 or drop them in to me at 5 Carters Crescent,Faringdon
This is such an exciting event to be involved in and I hope that you will join me to make our piano stand out from the crowd.
Please pass this invitation on to anyone you know how is over 60 and may wish to take part.
Nicky Brown
Childs bicycle- 4/7/14
A pink bicycle has been found hanging from the lights on top of the Portwell.
If you think it might belong to your child then please call into the Tourist Information Centre, Glos Street to collect it.
TIC
Parking at Health Centers - 4/7/14
There are two doctors practices at the site, the is also a physio and other health services using the building such as eye screening and dieticians so maybe just because the waiting room may have looked empty other parts of the building may have been busy. There is also the Breast Screening Unit parked in the car park this takes several parking bays. There may be more staff around using the parking. I have often thought it would be a good idea for the staff to have a car park at the lower end of the building.
Monica Graham
Help Needed - 4/7/14
Can anyone help the Faringdon Town Team to set up 10 stalls at Faringdon artisan market tomorrow morning (8.30am set up, be finished by 9.30am) PLEASE?
contact Andy Hayter 07552 788994
Faringdon Independents' Day Market, 5th Jul- 4/7/14
There will be what we hope will be the first of many Saturday markets on 5 July, when Faringdon celebrates its very own independent shops. This first Saturday market will be geared towards arts and crafts, and it is anticipated that there will be up to 10 stalls occupying the spaces where the traditional Tuesday and Farmers' markets take place in the market square. We are planning to include entertainment during the morning, all of which is designed to make the town centre the vibrant hub of our community. The market itself will start at 9.30am, so we look forward to seeing you there!
No parking spaces at health centre - 4/7/14
Could someone explain why twice this week when attending Doctors appointments at the White Horse Surgery during the day, that there have been no parking spaces available. Not only did this made me late for my appointments, but it was quiet in the Doctors Surgery on both occasions.
Someone there said that they believe that people from out of town are parking there to catch the Bus into Oxford. If so, this is totally unacceptable and something must be done about it.
name supplied.
Helpful ambulance service - 3/7/14
I have read the comments about the Ambulance service and
I felt I should come in on their side .This year I have had to use the 111 service, twice for my Husband and once for myself. I have found them to be really helpful. I had the services of a first Responder ( Ian from Stanford in the Vale ) and Paramedic when I needed help and when I needed to be Hospitalised the Ambulance was there in no time. We have a N.H.S. that is over-stretched and it needs more funding. There are cuts that can be made but it will take a braver man than Mr Hunt to do it
Ann
Plants wanted - 3/7/14
Faringdon Free Food are organising a marathon planting session in the next few weeks. We would like to ensure that the town looks fabulous for FollyFest. In order to achieve our goal we would like to ask for plant donations from our fellow Faringdonians. If you have extra plants or are dividing your plants in the garden and would like to put them to good use, please donate your plants to us and we will make sure that they are planted around town. We would prefer edible plants but we are not fussy and we can find a home for almost type of plant. If you would like to donate plants then please either send us a message via FB or use our website to send us an email (www.faringdonfreefood.org).
Albania Grosso
Health Education England are recruiting members to its Patient Advisory Forum - 3/7/14
Health Education England is currently recruiting members to its Patient Advisory Forum. If you are interested in joining the forum please read the following information provided by Health Education England:
Health Education England (HEE) exists for one reason alone: to help improve the quality of care delivered to patients by ensuring that our future workforce has the right numbers, skills, values and behaviours to meet their needs today and tomorrow.
We are committed to ensuring that patient and public voice is at the centre of what we do and are looking for applications from patients, service users, carers and relatives of patients, and the general public to become a Patient and Public Voice Partner on HEE’s new Patient Advisory Forum.
If you are passionate about ensuring the patient voice is present and powerful, place high value on ensuring equality of opportunity and are committed to promoting and championing diversity we want to hear from you.
It is important that you have a keen interest in the NHS, a commitment to the values set out in the NHS Constitution and can provide challenge, help find solutions and keep us focused on our ambition of ensuring patient and public voice is at the centre of what we do.
For more information and to apply please visit: http://hee.nhs.uk/work-programmes/advisory-groups/ or contact Catherine Dale, Strategy Lead:
T:0113 2952080
E: HEE.PAFrecruitment@nhs.net
Closing date: 5pm 16th June 2014
Park Road/Tescos junction - 3/7/14
Can't understand what the problem is. The junction, whichever you are using is much better than before . Yes you do have to be careful, but shouldn't you be always? The visibility in all directions is good, yes the traffic is fast in spite of speed limit, but that is true of all roads everywhere. And I have used all the different roads, turning right, left and both sides.
Sylvia Bowley
Buscot Park Frescoes - 2/7/14
I was lucky to be included in a private tour of Buscot Park recently. Roger Vlitos, the assistant curator at Buscot Park, told us the stories behind the frescoes on the walls and ceiling of the little theatre. Lord Berners features quite prominently. I've created a web page about the frescoes, so you can read about them on this site.
Of course you can see them for real on Buscot Park open days (gardens every day til end September, House Wed, Thur, Fri and alternate weekends.
http://www.buscot-park.com/visitor-info
ED(GW)
Ragwort - 2/7/14
Hart avenue (Road) ie the one along between the Swan Pub and before the left turn towards the Southampton street Car Park.
There growing on the left hand side is the poisonous rag wort plant in flower. It must be removed from the left curb. It is a weed that can cause serious symptoms. even by pulling out with bare hands.
Notice to all families with pushchair's and small children. Do not stop and give to the children despite their screams for a flower. It is a yellow flower. Farmers have to remove this plant from all cattle food as cows can die if they eat it.
Oxford shire County Council is responsible for removing the plant - using gloves
Daphne Saunders
ED(GW) You can report ragwort to Oxfordshire CC via Fix my street
Tesco exit+ - 2/7/14
At the opening of tesco I pointed out 2 issues.
1. The crossing that was right on the bend was a danger. This since had been removed
2. I pointed out that the exit to tesco was a real issue.
The answer I received was. " experts have looked at it very carefully and I should be reassured it's fine!
Here we are few months down the road and the town folks are finding the exit an issue.But what do I know!!!!!
The self check outs never work properly. If you are hard of hearing you would not hear the scanner work. I've pointed this put so many times. They just don't listen.
Name supplied
Children on scooters - 1/7/14
I cannot believe the amount of parents who are happy to let there children race off in front of them on their little foot scooters from the primary school, some cannot control them properly while others have near misses with other pedestrians and are very close to the road edge. The footpaths leading from the school are not wide enough. Come on parents have some road sense because you would be first to criticise if it was your child involved in an accident!! The council should intervene in this with prohibiting signs.
Richard Barnes
Exit from Tesco - 1/7/14
With reference to the comment by Name Supplied - I half agree with their comment about "because the road is so busy and fast". The half I totally agree with is that it is busy & indeed busier than it used to be - I have to disagree with the "fast" comment because legally it is still within a 30 mph limit, which isn't fast UNLESS people are blatantly ignoring the speed limit, which apparently they are. I have also turned right from Tesco back into the town and also turned right up Park Road from Marlborough Gardens towards the A420. Yes it does take more care & a lot more observation than before Tesco was built - you have to look 3 ways not 2 to include the entrance/exit to Tesco's, but if cars going along Park Road to or from the Town were complying with the 30mph limit and driving within that limit or the road/traffic conditions, there would not be an issue. I am sure Tesco had to go through Health & Safety Analysis ref the road markings and junction as part of their planning process - but that would have been conducted purely based on the legal speed limit, which did not necessitate a roundabout, rather than the actual speed that drivers ignoring the limit are doing. Perhaps Thames Valley Police with hand held speed cameras might get the message across
Teresa Reynolds
Tesco junction - 1/7/14
Just to clarify my point about driving....this is not a bad junction which ever way you cut it from any direction, the road markings, the signs the warnings are all satisfactory and give drivers plenty of opportunity to exit,turn or enter with a degree of safety ...but you can't compensate for the imbecilic driver who drives far too quickly & ignores all of the visual signs that mean you should always be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary.The sentiment here js bad & potentially dangerous driving but I do take on board the "name supplied's comment"....I'll repeat myself again....just drive safely
Allan Barrow
1909 picture, Park Road - 1/7/14
Checking on the Park Road picture on the photo section I also spotted at the top of Marlborough Street Dr. Pulling's house (or was it Pullin).? Does anyone else remember him and nanny? He was our family doctor when I was very young and was replaced by Dr. Tobin.
Margaret Haddon nee Rogers
Exit from Tesco - 1/7/14
I agree it's a bad junction and I really believe there's an accident waiting to happen.I've never turned right onto Park Road with 100% confidence from there because the road is so busy and fast and you can't see far enough. I imagine it will get worse with the new housing development and school which are planned. It's such a wide road to cross now and there just isn't time. Turning right out of Marlborough Gardens is as bad. Why a roundabout wasn't put there I don't understand.
Name supplied
Park Road- exit right from Tesco - 1/7/14
Here's something to consider whilst you munch your breakfast....you exit out of Tesco to the right in your car....if you look right for approaching traffic you can see about 140ft before eye contact is lost to traffic due to the bend...so after looking both ways and right again to check you decide to go because it is safe( ask me for the equation to work it out)...then when you haven't even got to the far side of the road imagine a car right next to you on your offside ( drivers door)...with a 2 finger gesture and an angry look.....150ft in less than 2 seconds round a bend with a supermarket entrance with lots of kids....equals about 49mph in a 30mph limit.what chance do children,cyclists or less experienced drivers have...my car camera doesn't point sideways otherwise I'd have the evidence for the police as the camera works out distance to speed ratio but only pointing forwards so to those who don't drive according to road conditions...take it steady,be prepared to slow down or stop in the distance you can see and we will all live a bit longer. Allan (ADI)
Park Road, Faringdon c 1909 - 1/7/14
Do have a look at the picture in the photos section of this site- early to mid 20th century link. It's a view of Park Road and Folly Hill (before the tower was built). I can make out the Railway station. The cottages to the right have been demolished and I think became JDS and now Tesco. I can't make out much else. Can you?
Thanks to Daphne and Pat Saunders for the picture and to Al Cane for cleaning it up.
Ed(GW)
Re Messy paths - 1/7/14
You can report the state of these paths to Oxford CC via Fix my street .
Name Supplied
Re. Emergency Response Times.- 1/7/14
No surprise to me, as my best mate is a senior Paramedic. In rural counties such as ours, many areas will never be reached within 8 minutes. Never have been and never will. Don't believe what the suits say, just talk to those on the front line. In these litigious days, an ambulance/paramedic car can be sent can (to err in caution), but there are not enough staff and they work horrendous hours. I know of two accidents involving ambulances recently that were due to overworked staff. Many do not even get any food breaks. With up to a third of calls to the call handlers (also Ambulance/paramedics) being time wasters including calls for hangover cures, no electricity, lost cat, no lightbulbs in the house ( i kid you not!), drunk and drug related problems (many). I can see why staff are leaving in their droves, including my mate who is fed up with never seeing his children. There lot is not a happy one.
Regards Mark
Re: Performance of Ambulance service in Faringdon. - 1/7/14
The stats. for Faringdon make worrying reading. Do they provide any information on where the ambulances are deployed from?. February of this year looks particularly bad with only 13% arriving within 8 minutes & if memory serves me correctly that was around the time of the regular closure of the A417 due to flooding.
Thomas Tankengine
Performance of Ambulance service in Faringdon - 1/7/14
Have a look at the performance figures for April and May 2014(Excel). Doesn't make for good reading. If you made an emergency call designated as red/urgent(Red 2), in these months, there was only a 39% chance that someone would arrive within the laid down target (8 mins)
Performance since April 2013 has varied from 13% to 69%
While the data doesn't mention First responders , it is known that these figures include their work. Thefigures would be even worse if First responders were taken out of the calculation. The national target for someone to arrive (Ambulance/medic or First Responder is 75%)
ED(GW)
Messy paths - 1/7/14
I think its about time the council got off their butts and sorted out the hobble between Park Road and Southampton street instead of wasting money on things like statues and stuff like that.
It is such a mess and overgrown with weeds and brambles I have to duck walking down it and have to make sure my kids stay in the middle of the footpath to avoid stinging nettles and dog mess. Also the footpath up to the doctors from Southampton street is just as bad. Come on council get your act together and get these areas tidied up.
Jon Townsend
Ambulance Service Survey - 30/6/14
There is only one week left to complete our annual Member and Patient Survey and for you to have your say about our services and membership.
We asked you recently if you could complete our anonymous Member and Patient Experience Survey so you can tell us your views. More than 270 people have done so already, but if you have not yet completed the survey, I would be grateful if you could find a minute or two to do so.
Information is submitted anonymously via https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/7TN6FWY. Deadline: Monday 7 July.
Please don’t hesitate to call the Membership Office on 01869 365126 for more information or email getinvolved@scas.nhs.uk.
SCAS South Central Ambulance Service
Meeting for library volunteers - 30/6/14
We are holding another meeting of FLAG (Faringdon Library Associates Group) on Tuesday 8th July in the Library at 7pm. The purpose will be to discuss the group’s progress so far, consider how well the Volunteer system has been working and how we can further help in ensuring that our local library continues to thrive. If you are interested in being part of the group, wondering what the group does, would like to help by working in the library, or are just inquisitive do please attend. No need to let us know that you are coming just turn up.
If you want to become a working volunteer then we provide an induction morning to show how the library systems work, outline the various duties you will perform and show you what Oxfordshire Libraries provide for the community. If you decide to become a volunteer worker we try to accommodate everyone’s wishes so that you can work half a shift, a full shift (3 hours), regularly once a week or once a month, or on any day that suits you and fits in to the library schedule.
If you can’t make the meeting but are keen to become involved then email me through the address shown on this site’s library information page.
Regards………….David Turner FLAG volunteer co-ordinator
Places going fast for popular summer challenge - 30/6/14
The Farcycle FollyFest Sportive (FFS) is back in 2014 in an even better British Cycling graded format. This gorgeous Cotswold event starts and finishes in the Market Place on the 2nd of August. There are 3 choices of route, ranging from 35 to 111 miles.
Last year’s event was oversubscribed so we have increased the entry limit, especially as we now need to accommodate the epic new 111-mile route that is already proving popular with early entrants. The FFS’s popularity stems from its friendly atmosphere and attention to detail such as the food and the routes. The latter are chosen from our back yard favourites that we, the Farcycles (pronounced Farcicals), cycle frequently. Of course, we are most fortunate that our back yard takes in the incomparable Costwold scenery, not to mention the hills. Feedback from last year’s event included:
“I have done a lot of sportives over many years and this was the best”
“Thank you very much for a fantastically well organised event. Everything about it was brilliant! … Here’s to next year!”
“I just wanted to say thanks for organising such a fantastically enjoyable event. It was a great route, challenging enough but with some rewarding vistas of the Cotswolds to marvel at. The whole day was beautifully organised from the route planning and marshalling to the outstanding hospitality. The cakes and lasagne were a real treat.”
The route options in more detail are:
Further information can be found at www.facebook.com/FFsportive.
There are places left but they are being eaten up quickly, so make sure you enter today at https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/104320/Farcycle-FollyFest-Sportive-2014
We are also looking for volunteers to be marshals and other ways of helping on the day, so if you'd like to be involved but not cycle, then contact us at: farcycles@gmail.com
David Williamson
WHMP are collecting unwanted medications to send to third world countries - 29/6/14
White Horse Medical Practice are now collecting unwanted medications so that they can be recycled and sent to third world countries. They have to have at least 15 months until their expiry date as this allows time for them to be collected, shipped and distributed. We cannot take out of date items.
Give them to the receptionist at the Health Centre
Ref message to Mr Wilson about Ex Pupils -28/6/14
Anyone at any age at any level of education can attain their full potential perhaps an e mail to the school may encourage them to put Josh's achievement in the school newsletter
Scott Gildert
Free public Wi-Fi in Faringdon provides possible solution to business broadband needs - 27/6/14
People visiting the centre of Faringdon can now take advantage of free public Wi-Fi.
The new service is available in the Market Place for people to browse the internet while visiting the regular markets, doing their shopping, travelling to work or sitting in the Market Place.
The free Wi-Fi will allow people to get online quickly to find out information about local services, attractions and locations; meaning that they may explore more of the town, spend more time in the town centre, or are simply able to respond to urgent work inquiries while having lunch in the town centre.
The first time you use the service, you need to sign in to agree to the terms and conditions that are there to protect users – you can sign in via Facebook, Twitter or simply give your email address on an on-line form. The system will then recognise your IP address and you do not need to sign in for subsequent visits.
The scheme is being provided by the Vale of White Horse District Council through provider STL Communications. The Wi-Fi equipment is hosted by Faringdon Town Council and Marriotts estate agent. The scheme has been supported by Faringdon Chamber of Commerce as town centre businesses do not presently have access to superfast broadband. The WiFi service will provide speeds of up to 14Mbps, which is faster than speeds currently available within the town, although it is not superfast.
Cllr Elaine Ware, cabinet member for economic development at the Vale, said: “The free public Wi-Fi will offer visitors to Faringdon town centre more freedom to find out information, work, or go online while they are having a coffee. We hope that people will make the most of the new service and use it to find out more about the local area and hopefully spend more time in the centre of Faringdon.”
Paul Brame, chairman of the Faringdon Chamber of Commerce said “Now that we have the new WiFi infrastructure in Faringdon, it provides businesses in the town centre with an opportunity to work with STL Communications to get access to superfast broadband. Any business interested in pursuing this option should contact Alan Rogers of STL Communications on ARogers@stlcomms.com or phone 01993 777129 to discuss your individual bandwidth requirements, and costs.
VWHDC
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal - 27/6/16
The Shoebox has been run in Faringdon for 15 years, coordinated from the United Church. Sadly the organiser is unable to continue, and despite appeaing for someone to take over, no one has come forward. There will no longer be a collection point in Faringdon.
It will still be possible to to contribute through other drop off points, which can be found on www.samaritans-purse.org.uk
ED(GW) If you want to take over, I suspect it's not too late. Contact this website and I'll put you in touch with the relevant person
New Hardware store in Faringdon- opens July - 27/6/16
London St, where the mobility shop used to be, or if you're a long term resident WH Smith (1960s)
ED(GW)
Re: 'Humpty' Appeal - 26/6/14
- I agree this appeal is at a bad time for most people, the same is also partially true of the Network Rail meetings. I'm not expecting people to work all hours, but for those of us who work out of town these things are difficult to get to.
I'm sure the Humpty meeting being at probably the furthest point of town from those most affected is just coincidental, but I would urge those who can to go - not just for this development, but to show the strength of feeling about all the other developments planned/ being forced on us. I understand the need for houses, but we need the infrastructure & facilities improved first as they are near capacity as it is.
Name Supplied
A short message for Mr Wilson about one of his ex-Pupils. An ordinary student......- 25/6/14
FOR THE ATTENTION OF MR WILSON – my email inspired by the encouragement of a few FCC teachers:-
I am writing to tell you about Josh, who has graduated recently from Swansea University with a 2:1 honours degree in Clinical Technology. He has also just started a job at The Royal Marsden Hospital in London.
My main reason for writing is that Josh’s story may help and encourage the more average student about what life after FCC can bring (with a bit of application and hard work).
You may recall Josh, not a particularly shining academic. However, after taking a year out to travel in Africa (Malawi to treat sick kids, and to Namibia to work on an animal reservation) he went on to Swansea University to undertake a course in the field of Nuclear Medicine (Clinical Technology – a field using state-of-the-art scanning equipment to diagnose and treat sick patients suffering with illnesses, mainly cancer). He has worked really hard, particularly over the last 2 years and has got this delightful result.
I thought you might like to know.
Kind regards
Neil
P.S. Josh and two fellow FCC pupils are also here this weekend as they are playing at Tuckers Park tomorrow as part of the Party-in-the-Park line up – maybe you or a few pupils and colleagues might want to say “Hi” to him, Mark and Elliot (band called YOUNG ROSIE).
'Humpty' Appeal - 25/6/14
Think you will find the attendance at the Humpty Hill appeal hearing to be poorly attended, not due to apathy but due to the fact that most people like myself will be at work. Why not hold a public hearing in the evening when most people can attend, or is that too much too ask. My Wife and I have worked hundreds of evenings and nights, why should public servants at this hearing be any different.
Regards Mark
Far Runners - Beginners jogging session (week2) - 25/6/14
Where - Faringdon Leisure Centre car park
When - Saturday 28th, 9.30am
Why - It's healthy, sociable, and totally FREE!!!
Any questions please contact me ( Linda Woodward) : woodwardj@btopenworld.com
Independents Day, 5th July - 25/6/14
David, thanks for your posting regarding Independents Day, and we apologise if we didn’t contact you in advance. Because of its proximity to the Farmers Market, this particular event is aimed at arts and crafts which don’t tend to feature in our traditional markets, and we hope that, if it proves to be a success, then we could plan other themed Saturday markets, which will involve more of our independent retailers. A useful forum for feedback and for hearing your views is the Chamber of Commerce, which meets on the second Monday of every month at 6.30pm and is open to retailers and members of the general public alike. We would encourage you to attend, as we think every retailer in Faringdon deserves to have their views heard.
Andy Hayter
'Humpty' Field appeal starts next Tuesday 1st - 25/6/14
It would great if lots of people turned up at the start of the appeal- to indicate to the inspector how important this field is to local people.
It starts on 1st July, 10am, Sudbury House
Iff you wish to speak at the hearing you need to be there on the first morning to register. The planning inspector will give a rough idea when the public speaking slot will be scheduled, but this will be subject to change depending on progress made.
He/she will give an indication of the timetable for the 7 days on day one.
ED(GW)
Network Rail local drop-in sessions for Challow Road (A417) bridge works - 24/6/14
Network Rail has organised two local drop-in sessions for the planned works at Challow Road Bridge A417. Representatives from Network Rail and their contractor will be on hand to provide more information and answer any questions and concerns from the local community.
1. Thursday June 26 between 4pm and 7pm at The Corn Exchange, Cornmarket, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7JA.
2. Wednesday 2nd July between 4pm and 7pm at Stanford in the Vale Village Hall, Hunters Field, Stanford in the Vale, SN7 8LX
kirsty.dickson@networkrail.co.uk
ED(GW) Petition now at 845. http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Theatre bus home from Oxford.- 24/6/14
As part of the recently improved Stagecoach route 66 bus service between Oxford and Faringdon, there is now a late bus from Oxford to Faringdon leaving at 2200 hours, Monday to Saturday, arriving in Faringdon at 2238 hours. This will be a big improvement for people who have attended the theatre or a concert.
Marcus Lapthorn
FollyFest Race Night - 24/6/14
The FollyFest Race Night at the Bobbin made £316.00 towards our funds.
Thank you to all the local people and businesses who sponsored the horses and races, and to all who came out to bet on the races and support us.
FollyFest Committee
Proving that Am-Dram doesn't have to mean wooden acting and shaky sets,- 24/6/14
FARINGDON DRAMATIC SOCIETY has been nominated in all the following categories for National Operatic and Dramatic Association awards for London and the South East Region.
Best Play - Wife After Death,
Best Panto - Scarlet Pumpernickel,
Best Male Performance - Andy Pritchard as Harvey in Wife After Death
Best Female Performance Carolyn Taylor as Vi in Wife After Death
The winners of the trophies will be announced at the London Region Conference on Sunday 6th July.
Being nominated alone is a proud moment but we are keeping all our fingers crossed we bring some or all awards home!
Because we're worth it! Congratulations to All!
Fiona Merrick
pp Faringdon Dramatic Society
Live at the Park, 27th and 28th June - 24/6/14
Dear Neighbour
You may be aware that Faringdon Town F.C. will be holding Live at the Park in Tucker Park to raise funds for local charities on Friday evening June 27th from 7pm until 11.00pm and Saturday June 28th from 12.00pm until 11.00pm.
There are many activities for both adults and children taking place during the day on Saturday and local bands playing live music both Friday evening and Saturday so there will be something for all the family to enjoy.
As your property maybe adjacent to the park we understand that this event may cause some disturbance to your normal weekend routine. We have done all we can to keep this disturbance to a minimum and ask you to bear with us for this charity event.
You are of course welcome to attend and entry is free.
We look forward to seeing you and hope you enjoy your day.
Live at the Park Committee.
Free public Wi-Fi now available in the centre of Faringdon- 23/6/14
People visiting the centre of Faringdon can now take advantage of free public Wi-Fi.
The new service is available in the Market Place for people to browse the internet while visiting the regular markets, doing their shopping, travelling to work or sitting in the Market Place.
The free Wi-Fi will allow people to get online quickly to find out information about local services, attractions and locations; meaning that they may explore more of the town, spend more time in the town centre, or are simply able to respond to urgent work inquiries while having lunch in the town centre.
The first time you use the service, you need to sign in to agree to the terms & conditions that are there to protect users – you can sign in via Facebook, Twitter or simply give your email address on an on-line form. The system will then recognise your IP address and you do not need to sign in for subsequent visits
The scheme is being provided by the Vale of White Horse District Council through provider STL Communications. The Wi-Fi equipment will be hosted by Faringdon Town Council and Marriotts estate agent. The scheme has been supported by Faringdon Chamber of Commerce as town centre businesses do not presently have access to superfast broadband. The WiFi service will provide speeds of 14Mbps.
Cllr Elaine Ware, cabinet member for economic development at the Vale, said: “The free public Wi-Fi will offer visitors to Faringdon town centre more freedom to find out information, work, or go online while they are having a coffee. We hope that people will make the most of the new service and use it to find out more about the local area and hopefully spend more time in the centre of Faringdon.”
VWHDC
Volunteer Lock Keepers wanted - 20/6/14
See the Jobs and volunteering page
Ed(GW)
More roadworks! Frideswide Square. Oxford- 20/6/14
The current proposals are that the Advanced Works will start on Becket Street, Osney Lane, Hollybush Row and Worcester Street in September 2014. These will be completed by the beginning of December 2014.
The second phase of the works will be the construction of the actual Square. This is currently proposed to commence on site in February 2015, with current proposals for it to be completed by December 2015.
Marcus Lapthorn
Theft from Church - 20/6/14
Overnight between 17th and 18th June, offender(s) gained entry to the Church of All Saints in Church Street and pulled electrical cabling out of the ceiling before stealing it.
Anyone with information should contact PC Simon Charlton, at Abingdon Police station via the Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101.
Alternatively if you have information but wish to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online@crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thames valley police
Faringdon Neighbourhood plan. Deadline for comments 28th June - 20/6/14
TheTown Council’s final 6 week consultation period with the residents of Faringdon began 17th May and will end 28th June
Do give your views
The documents and the feedback form is available on http://faringdonplan.webs.com/ or in the Town Council Office and the Library
Comments can also be emailed to hilary@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
The consultation closes on June 28th 2014
Network Rail local drop-in sessions for Challow Road (A417) bridge works - 19/6/14
Network Rail has organised two local drop-in sessions for the planned works at Challow Road Bridge A417. Representatives from Network Rail and their contractor will be on hand to provide more information and answer any questions and concerns from the local community.
1. Thursday June 26 between 4pm and 7pm at The Corn Exchange, Cornmarket, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7JA.
2. Wednesday 2nd July between 4pm and 7pm at Stanford in the Vale Village Hall, Hunters Field, Stanford in the Vale, SN7 8LX
kirsty.dickson@networkrail.co.uk
A417 - well thought out comments - 19/6/14
I would like to congratulate Councillor Judith Heathcoat for her very well thought out comments upon the A417 road closure. It is very rare to hear a politician saying something sensible!
Name supplied
Good News - Open meeting brought forward - 18/6/14
Great news - we are seeing some positive engagement from Network Rail as a result of the strong response to the plan to close the A417. They have brought forward their drop-in session at the Corn Exchange to next Thursday between 4-7.
Network Rail has also agreed that a Senior Programme Manager will attend the full public meeting on the issue. In order to accomodate his attendance the meeting will now be held at: 7pm Tuesday 22nd July Faringdon Corn Exchange
This will be the only opportunity to have all views heard with all stakeholders present. There is still time to change minds on this issue as the formal application to close the road has not yet been made, let alone approved.
Please do come along and support a better solution for the A417 if you can. Our petition now has over 700 signatures: http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Alex Meredith
Thank you lovely Faringdon - 18/6/14
Having spent the last couple of days pounding the streets with posters to advertise this years Infant and Junior School Summer Fete (5th July 2-5pm Infant School Grounds) we would just like to say a huge thank you to all the shops, businesses and members of the public who have agreed to display our fliers. We have been met with unfaltering good will from all quarters. The continued support from the wider community has been lovely.
We have a number of smaller posters on lamp posts in areas where they will be most noticed. We hope not to be irksome or overly obtrusive to those living there. We also have careful note of where these posters are and a plan to remove them once the event is over.
The Schools Fete is a great day out and not just for the school children and their families but for all in the town and we aim to have something for everyone from cream tea and cake to BBQ and a cold beer, live entertainment, side stalls, a market and bouncy castle. You can get involved and bake a cake for our competition or have the kids dress a bear for a chance to win a prize. We do hope you will join us.
A huge thank you must also go out to the many businesses and individuals who have made donations to our raffle or are contributing to the Fete with their time or resources. Without your continued support it simply could not happen. So thank you lovely Faringdon for all your help so far and if you haven't had us at your door cap in hand, don't be offended and prepare yourself we are still making our rounds in between school runs, baby changes and real world jobs. We would of course love to hear from you if you would like to add to the day, enter a competition or offer a hand. You can email us on faringdonpta@gmail.com.
Friends of Faringdon Infants
A417 Closure! - 18/6/14
So Judith when the A34 is closed and traffic is being pushed along alternative routes, and the A417 is to be closed. How exactly do I get to and from work, bearing in mind that I like numerous others work in Milton Park, Didcot, Harwell area etc?
Problems on the A34 is not a rare event unfortunately!
Will these back-roads, that you will no doubt be suggesting we use, be gritted and maintained during this time?
Only needs a problem on the alternative routes and we are all completely stuffed.
Name Supplied
A417 closure at Challow - 18/6/14
Nice to (finally) hear from someone who was involved in this decision, but it seems the bridge at Challow is going to be shut regardless. Hopefully at the meeting next month the land restrictions will be explained (looking at google maps linking the "road" that Network Rail use to access the track & the road that goes down to Jewsons seems fairly straight-forward compared with the A338, but I'm no engineer).
At the meeting it will be nice to know why it takes 4 months to take down one bridge & replace it (are they paid by the hour?), also if Oxfordshire Highways will use this effective closure of the road to implement the very long needed improvements at Stanford & Challow to stop the road flooding each winter?.
Network Rail finishing the job of schedule sounds nice, but looking at comments on other bridges they have replaced over-running seems more likely I'm afraid.
Thomas Tankengine
Result! - 18/6/14
I have had several offers of help following my plea for people to help me to check jigsaws for the charity shop! Thank you, Faringdon website!
Mary Beck
Faringdon Independents' Day, 5th July - 17/6/14
I welcome any promotion that markets and raises awareness of Faringdon. However, may I suggest that whoever is organising this event might actually want to speak to the independent retailers in the town to see how they can become involved...I thought that's who the day is meant to be aimed at!
David Reynolds
BT Vision problems? - 17/6/14
Does anyone have the same problem with your BT Vision. Getting no signal, unable to watch BBC or ITV
Virginia Durhaam
Summer Activities at The Pump House Project - 17/6/14
This summer we are hosting a variety of projects and workshops. So far we have the following:
The Glee Project for ages 7-11
Hardcore Parkour for ages 10+
Dance Project for ages 12-19
Arts and Crafts workshops for ages 5-15
Please visit www.facebook.com/thepumphouseproject for more information, dates, how to book etc.
Any enquires to be emailed to our Project Co-ordinator Kealy at info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk.
Kealy Whenray
By Councillor Judith Heathcoat – closure of A417 - 17/6/14
The closure of a road is never something that the county council undertakes lightly, especially when it is such an important one like the A417.
It is always a last resort, whether the reason for a full closure is for county council work, such as repairing worn out roads, or something to do with utility company work being undertaken by Thames Water or Southern Electric.
We know that having a full closure creates real disruption to people’s daily routines – we know it because we are affected ourselves, whether as county council staff or councillors. We’re Oxfordshire residents too.
The plans to electrify the Great Western mainline lie behind the reason for the bridge work that is in turn leading to the A417 closure. For the line to Bristol and south Wales to be electrified, in line with government wishes, a great deal of infrastructure work needs to be done.
The installation of overhead wires means changes to bridges, which in turn means disruption to road networks all along the route – we are not alone in our part of Oxfordshire or in the south of England.
Sadly, unlike similar cases elsewhere in Oxfordshire, there is no viable alternative to the closure of the A417 bridge because of land restrictions in the area. Believe me, if there were viable alternatives, I would have been pressing extremely hard for them to be used.
As a county council, we work very hard to minimise the impact of things like bridge closures on local communities and the road network in general. However we also have a legal obligation to work with organisations like Network Rail when huge improvement schemes like the one taking place on the Great Western line are proposed.
I’m sure we can all agree that the sooner the work is complete, the better – both from the perspective of the job the rail industry is seeking to complete, and from the perspective of local people who want normality on our road network.
Councillor Judith Heathcoat
Traffic impact - 16/6/14
Can anyone from the Traffic Advisory Committee tell me what has been done to assess the impact of the level of new proposed housing for Faringdon on the A420? During rush hours the A420 already resembles an urban trunk road with long tailbacks around Faringdon and Southmoor. How is this addressed by the FNP? The answer is, of course- it isn't. Are we to expect a dual carriageway and large roundabouts to eat up yet more land between Faringdon and the Coxwells in the next 2 or 3 years?
Ann Hoare
Faringdon Independents' Day, 5th July - 16/6/14
There will be what we hope will be the first of many Saturday markets on 5 July, when Faringdon celebrates its very own independent shops. This first Saturday market will be geared towards arts and crafts, and it is anticipated that there will be up to 10 stalls occupying the spaces where the traditional Tuesday and Farmers' markets take place in the market square. We are planning to include entertainment during the morning, all of which is designed to make the town centre the vibrant hub of our community. The market itself will start at 10am, so we look forward to seeing you there!
Public meeting re A417 closure. 10th July - 16/6/14
The public meeting about the A417 closure has been set for Thursday 10th July at 7pm at Faringdon Corn Exchange.
Ed
To Tesco customers - 15/6/14
Just a quick message to all the loyal customers of Tesco Faringdon to thank them for their patience over Saturday and Sunday this week following our refrigeration failure leading to very poor stock levels over the weekend. The issue was caused by the electrical storm on the early hours of Saturday morning. There have been some queries about why all the products had to be disposed of so I thought I'd quickly clarify. When it comes to food safety we take no chances and all the data in store told us the refrigeration reached temperatures over 15-18 degrees during the failure. That said our absolute priority was food safety hence all the fresh products had to be disposed of. The good news is I fully expect us to be back to normal in terms of stock levels by Tuesday morning at the latest although things will be vastly improved by late morning on Monday. If you'd like to talk to me about this more, please ask for me in store.
Thanks
Carl
Foxgloves at Badbury Wood.- 14/6/14
Having read the reports on the poppies around the folly, I thought I would let you know about the wild Foxgloves growing at Badbury Wood. There is a wonderful display of Foxgloves or to give it its correct name Digitalis in Badbury wood at the moment. It is the best display I have seen there in some 25 years that I have been walking my dogs around the woods. For those of you who visit Badbury Wood to see the bluebells I am sure you would enjoy the display of this lovely flower, just walk down the fire road from the car park and you will come across this wonderful display of this very colourful flower. If you do intend to visit , do not leave it to long because they will be soon be going over. Also be careful of the car park there are some very large potholes at the entrance. (National Trust please note)
Raymond Wood
Humpty Appeal- 13/6/14
"According to Mark Doodes, the planning officer, if you wish to speak at the hearing you need to be there on the first morning to register"
Why?. When most people are at work. How convenient!.
Mark Lunnon
ED(GW) I believe you can write in with your views on the appeal. Not sure of the deadline though. You can also write in to register to speak. Contact Alison.Bell@pins.gsi.gov.uk (the planning inspectorate)
Thames Valley Police alert - 13/6/14
With summer approaching, all farmers and land owners are advised to remain vigilant to the possibility of unlicensed musical events (raves) being organised on their land.
Thames Valley Police is asking members of the public to be alert to any possible rave-related activity.
This could include:
“If you spot anyone suspicious who may be conducting early reconnaissance on rural land or even starting to set up an event, please report it on the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number, 101, as soon as possible.”
C/Insp Jim Weems said: “Thames Valley Police will take a robust line with illegal rave activity. Anyone considering holding or attending this type of event should reconsider their intentions carefully.
“We urge owners of land or buildings to take steps to prevent raves taking place there.”
There is a process for the legitimate organisers of events to apply for a Public Entertainment Licence to hold musical parties both indoors and outdoors. The granting of this licence, through an application to the local council, follows consultation with the local police and fire service. The licensing process ensures that the impact to the local community is taken into account with conditions being imposed if required. It also ensures the safety of those attending the event.
By receiving early warnings, Thames Valley Police has a much better chance of disrupting the rave and dispersing those responsible for its organisation.
Information about securing land boundaries can be found on the Thames Valley Police website.
If you have any information in relation to unlicensed musical events, please contact the police via the 101 number
If you don't want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Honest Faringdonian - 13/6/14
Thank you to the kind and honest person who picked up my doorkeys (presumably I'd dropped them right outside my house) and put them somewhere for me to find on my return (rather than letting themselves in!). Restores your faith in human nature.
Name supplied
Planning Appeal Humpty Hill - 13/6/14
The appeal starts on 1st July, 10am, Sudbury House
According to Mark Doodes, the planning officer, if you wish to speak at the hearing you need to be there on the first morning to register. The planning inspector will give a rough idea when the public speaking slot will be scheduled, but this will be subject to change depending on progress made.
He/she will give an indication of the timetable for the 7 days on day one.
ED(GW)
Damaged Poppy fields - 13/6/14
I have visited the poppies many times and taken lots of photos (as anyone who knows me will testify... sorry about that, they'll be over soon I promise!) It is really depressing to see how some inconsiderate people have chosen to beat tracks and open spaces right through them destroying both poppies and the crops surrounding them. It's no great wonder that the farmers don't want to allow this to happen more often, the poppies are a joy to behold for us but for them the oats crop is an essential part of their livelihood.
The sight of that field has bought people in to Faringdon from all over the Vale. What a shame that the inconsiderate actions of a few, once again spoil things for the rest of us!
Anna
Blood Doning, Corn Exchange Tuesday 1st July - 13/6/14
More donors wanted . See http://www.blood.co.uk/index.aspx
FARINGDON TENNIS CLUB - NEW COURTS - 13/6/14
If you happen to be up at Folly Sports Park (cricket, rugby, sk8 dog walking etc) then you'll see that we're now making good progress on the new tennis courts. Delays were mostly due to the wettest Jan/Feb on record, making groundworks impossible. There's 300 tonnes of stone going in per day at the moment. Courts should be finished 3rd week of July; then curing for three weeks, then line painting. Could be playing tennis on the new courts by mid-August. Progress photos here: www.facebook.com/tennis4all . And if you want more info about the club & joining etc , then just google "faringdon tennis" .
Sjoerd
Steel Magnolias - 13/6/14
We had a great first night with a lovely audience who laughed and cried and enjoyed it all.
Tickets are still available for tomorrow and Saturday's performances. Call into The Nut Tree, Cornmarket, Faringdon for tickets, buy online at www.faringdondramatic.org.uk or buy them on the door.
***Spoiler Alert*** - Bring tissues!
Fiona Merrick
Faringdon Dramatic Society
'Live at the Tithe 2'. Saturday June 14th - 13/6/14
Great Coxwell Tithe Barn, from 11.30am
Following on from the success of last year’s event, this year’s Live at the Tithe offers lots of activities for all ages including: a wide range of art and craft activities in the art marquee; magic shows, storytelling; drumming workshops in the entertainment marquee; plus a whole day of music performed by members of 7 local folk clubs. There will also be dancing and singing in the Great Barn and stalls selling produce and craft items. Food will be available all day supplied by Outside Inn caterers and there will also be a fully stocked bar. Entry to the main event is free, with tickets available for the special evening concert, 7.45pm in the Tithe Barn, featuring Jez Lowe & Megson, £15 from Derrick Beer: tel. 01793 762070 or on the door.
http://www.liveatthetithe.co.uk/Home.html
French Twinners visit Faringdon - 13/6/14
Twinning continues to be very active with 28 visitors from our twin town of Le Mele in Normandy spending the weekend of 8-11th May in Faringdon. Some have been here many times before and know their way around town like locals, but there were a number of newcomers too. There was a spread of ages including 2 families with 5 children between them.
On Friday the group, along with 10 hosts, travelled to Henley’s Rowing Museum for a fascinating tour, followed by a delightful boat trip on the Thames. Saturday afternoon was intended to be a Garden Party, but strong winds and rain wrecked the gazebos and forced everyone indoors. Spirits were not dampened at all however! The evening culminated in singing of French and English songs, with a repertoire ranging from the Beatles to Edith Piaf!
Coming up soon are the Youth trips in July. Local children aged 12-16 are welcome to go to France with the group for an amazing time – contact Carolyn Murphy on 01367 240698 for details.
We have some wonderful friends across the Channel. Do come and join us on the annual visit to le Mele from 30th October to 2nd November, families especially welcome. Enquires to David Williamson on 01367 240033.
Poppy fields- stay on the edge - 12/6/14
The poppy fields around the Folly are so beautiful- the poppies have appeared because the farmer ploughed and planted oats last Autumn.
The farmer has asked that people don't walk among the poppies so that the crop is not damaged
Ed(GW)
Afternoon tea and crafting 21 June - 12/6/14
Come and join us for a delightful afternoon tea and fun crafting on the theme of 'An English Country Garden'. 21st June 2014, Catholic Church Hall, Faringdon. £20 all materials and afternoon tea included. To book follow the link http://becksieandlotty.bigcartel.com/product/crafternoon-tea-21st-june-2014
A417 Bridge Closure- Open meeting to be arranged - 11/6/14
Faringdon Town Council have agreed to hold an open meeting about the Challow bridge closure for 4 months in the Autumn/Winter.
Date, time etc to be arranged.
Currently 585 supporters for the petition
Sign it on:
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
To remember those who lost their lives in WW1 - 11/6/14
http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/remembrance/ww1-centenary/lights-out
'The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime'
Sir Edward Grey, Foreign Secretary, uttered these words on the eve of Britain officially entered the First World War. Exactly 100 years later we are inviting millions of individuals, households and companies to join together in a national moment of reflection.We're encouraging everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10pm and 11pm on 4 August 2014 – leaving only a single light or candle for this symbolic act of reflection and hope.
On that night we will remember more than a million Commonwealth Service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War.
We hope to light one million candles across the UK to remember each and every one of those Service men and women who gave their lives in the war to end all wars. Please join together with us to create a unique national moment for the United Kingdom and The Royal British Legion.
A limited edition Centenary candle will be available from M&S stores from 4 July 2014 for £4, with all profit going to The Royal British Legion.
Adult Drama Classes - 11/6/14
If you have some acting experience and are looking to brush up your skills then this is the course for you. Or maybe you are interested in the drama process and would like to explore different ways to approach drama?
Starting from the level the group are at we will go on a journey of discovery, travelling at our own pace and going where the mood takes us. We’ll explore performance, acting and improvisation in a relaxed and supportive environment. I want people to feel safe and just a little bit challenged
With many years experience and a wide range of material and techniques to offer you, this class will get you buzzing.”
Come and find out if this is for you.
Dates: Four Mondays, June 23rd – July 14th
Place: The Pump House Project, Swan Lane
Time: 8.15pm – 9.30pm
Cost: £8.50 per session or £30 for all 4
Suitable for: people who are interested in acting and the drama process or anyone who just wants to have a go.
Please contact Hilary on 01993 773390 or bespoke training@yahoo.co.uk for more information or to book a place.
Neighbourhood update- 11/6/14
June update for Faringdon on http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/yournh/yournh-tvp-pol-area/yournh-tvp-pol-area-soxon-vowh/pub-pg-nh-upds-N378?id=283445
Rural Crime, theft from vehicles, anti social behaviour- Town Centre,
and Have your say meetings in the area.
Thames Valley Police
Lost dog - 10/6/14
Someone was looking for their lost "sausage dog" this evening about 20:30 and I hadn't seen it at the time but about 21:45, I saw one next to the tennis courts on Southampton St South. By the time I got over to where he was, he'd run off. Hope he turns up soon for you though.
Grant Womack
Help! Are there people out there who love doing jigsaw puzzles? - 10/6/14
I have the task of checking the puzzles for my charity shop - and the only way to do this is to do the puzzles. The boxes are piling up as I can't get through them fast enough. If you have time on your hands and can do a 1000 piece puzzle without batting an eyelid, and would like to help, please ring me on 01367 241805
Il# look forward to hearing from you!
Mary Beck
Daddy Cool?- 10/6/14
"Messy Dads" is a FREE drop-in session for dads, grandads or male carers and their age 0-7 children. We have lots of games and toys to play with, plus plenty of bacon sandwiches, toast, tea, coffee and juice to keep your energy levels up.
Come along and meet other Dads and give Mum some time off!
Our next session is from 10-11.30am on Saturday 14th June @ the Baptist Church building on Bromsgrove, Faringdon. Contact Stephen at the church office on 01367 243455 or by email stephen@faringdon-baptist.org for more details.
(Messy Dads is part of Faringdon Messy Church -faringdonmessychurch@gmail.com)
Stephen Martin
Faringdon Baptist Church
Update on the A417 story following the Traffic Advisory Meeting on Friday - 9/6/14
I raised the issue of the closure of the A417 for four months at the Faringdon Traffic Advisory Meeting on Friday.
Cllr Heathcoat and Network Rail tried to say that 'nothing is set in stone' and that 'discussions were ongoing' until the formal decision. However, both NR and OCC have put out public statements confirming the closure (OCC's was read out like an edict from City Hall at the meeting).
The details of the road closure process are on the OCC website which includes the guidance: 'It is in the public interest that we must process your application before it can be granted.'
No formal analysis of the alternative options (eg. second bridge) for Challow was presented at the meeting. Network Rail gave a series of platitudes about how Challow bridge is 'on a tricky bend'.
Therefore, without any consultation having taken place nor any evidence presented on the alternatives, the decision to close the A417 looks increasingly flawed. We have seen the A338 decision reversed, and another flawed OCC consultation in Bicester has just been sent for review. OCC can be made to change its mind!
Support reversing the closure of the A417 by signing the petition here: http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
A motion on a public meeting to discuss this issue will be discussed by Faringdon Town Council on Wednesday.
Alex Meredith
Re: Portwell Seating- Artist in Residence - 9/6/14
My wife, kids and I were in town on Saturday supporting our very lovely butchers and grabbing a coffee but whilst there stopped to admire the great work Tim is doing with the seating. It amazes me how skilled he is at getting the lettering just right and dread to think what would happen if he slipped or something. If you do get a chance go and have a look. I know that if the lettering is this good the diver will be amazing and a great new feature for a great town.
Rob Perkins.
Beautiful Poppies - 8/6/14
I just wanted to extend a huge vote of thanks to the Saunders for allowing such a beautiful display of poppies to grow on their farmland at Folly Hill this year. It really is a lovely sight, and has bought people in to Faringdon from all around the Vale.
Much appreciated by me and many others, thank you!
Anna
Poppies on Folly Hill- 8/6/14
The poppies have been looking spectacular for over a week. They're starting to fade a bit now but still worth a look if you haven't been up there yet. Beautiful!! We are so lucky to have this on our doorstep.
Name supplied
Volunteers carry out more work upon footpath link to town centre - 7/6/14
Seven Members of the Ramblers Association Vale of White Horse footpath clearance group, were in Faringdon on Friday June 6th clearing another section of the path which runs between the Business Centre and the tennis courts This was the second time that volunteers from across the Vale of White Horse had worked on this very well used footpath. The group intends to return on future dates to complete clearance of the path.
Local businessman, Raoul van Eijndhoven who owns Quidne IT Solutions and operates from the Faringdon Business Centre adjacent to this footpath, generously provided free coffee and cakes to keep us going!
Marcus Lapthorn
Job advert - 7/6/14
I was just looking through your jobs section ....I see slavery is back in fashion around here then, had to smile to myself about what one person is expected to do....I say 'Dream on'
Name supplied
Marlborough St Wall repair- finished - 6/6/14
Given there was to be no parking along this stretch for 5 days, I assumed that a thorough job was to be done, so I observed with some interest.
I was told they were just going to repair the worst bits and clear weeds (I assume they were told only below the railings as they have left est 1m of weeds near the bus stop)
Workmen never arrived before 10.30; on one day they worked until 3.30pm, other days they had left by lunchtime or early afternoon
2 men were there Mon and Tue, no one Wed(raining), and 1 on Thurs and Fri.
So I would say roughly 18 man hours work over 5 days.
One workmen said they kept being called off the job- don't know who by.
I wonder if Oxfordshire CC has paid for 2 men for 5 days for this!
Local Yokel
I must get a life!
Go Active in Faringdon - 6/6/14
Tai Chi for Beginners
Mondays 6.15-7.15pm, Chilton Village Hall, £6
Tuesdays 7-8pm, King Alfred’s School, Wantage, £7
Wednesdays 7-8pm, Faringdon Infant School, £7
Thursdays 7-8pm, Radley Primary School, £7
Contact Tony 01235 813857 tony.jones78@btinternet.com or visit website
New Beginners Jog Group
10 week course in Faringdon starting Saturday 21 June, 9.30am
Part of the Far Runners Group who have regular jogs every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.
For more information contact Linda woodwardj@btopenworld.com or visit the Facebook page
Has anyone seen our cat? - 6/6/14
She is an almost 8 year old blue British shorthair - beautiful thick grey coat with a cream tip to her tail and lovely amber eyes - her name is Biba and she has been missing since Monday evening when she was last seen going under the fence into Ferendune's garden. A search of that garden produced no sign of her. She is a very timid cat. We are missing her dreadfully as is her twin sister. If you have seen her I should be so grateful if you could call me on 07747 745792 or e-mail me at lis@coxwellstreet.co.uk . Here's hoping - Lis
Talktalk OK now - 6/6/14
We're with talktalk ( in other words vodafone) which was giving us all kinds of grief. But as of earlier this week, the signal strength for the phone shot up and now consistently shows the full four bars, and the data network indicator hovers between H and H+ ( see http://community.giffgaff.com/t5/Blog/G-H-E-3G-and-LTE-Making-sense-of-cell-network-alphabet-soup/ba-p/10735263 ) .
So - no complaints from me any more!
Sjoerd
Marlborough Street- 6/6/14
I think you will find that repairs to the wall have been done. There were no signs to close the road, just that works were to take place. Cones are still in place 5/5/14 to
stop parking along the wall.They need to leave a space for the repairs to become stable before getting knocked by car doors!
Name supplied
Bridge closure on BBC TV- 6/6/14
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b045g5j0/bbc-oxford-news-05062014
Starts at 4 mins 50 secs.
Have you signed the petition yet? 336 at 09.36 today
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Bridge closure - 6/6/14
Yes closing the A417 for bridge improvement for 4 months does that mean the same level as the road works top of marlbough street plenty of signage and cones but no sign of work all week!!!
J Hadenough
Swindon:Faringdon Bus timetable changes - 5/6/14
Stagecoach West are introducing a revised timetable for the 66 route between Oxford & Faringdon as from Monday 23 June. Peak hour frequencies will be increased from two buses an hour to three. Full timetables can be found for Swindon at: http://www.stagecoachbus.com/uploads/66section1.pdf and for Oxford http://www.stagecoachbus.com/uploads/66section2.pdf
Marcus Lapthorn
Mobile phone coverage.- 5/6/14
Eddy, Don't bother with Orange(EE) cover is very poor. Both my wife,myself and my neighbour are with Orange (now EE) and we cannot get a signal inside more than a few feet from the front windows. Funnily enough, my work mobile is with Vodaphone and I have not had any trouble with the signal.
Regards Mark
Mobile phone coverage.- 5/6/14
Finally managed to ditch Vodafone and get out of my contract six months early with no pnealties to pay. So, who has the most reliable mobile phone service covering Faringdon and the Vale area?
I am told Three and T Mobile are pretty good. Any ideas please.
Colin Eddy
Far Runners (Faringdon's jogging/running group) - 5/6/14
I will be starting a new 12 week beginners jogging course on 21st June which is totally FREE.
The group will meet each Saturday morning (9.30am) at the Leisure Centre car park.
As it's beginners only, there will be no pressure and definitely NO sprinting!!
The sessions will compliment our thriving and very sociable running group here in Faringdon which includes 5k joggers to marathon runners.
Please get in touch via Facebook - Far Runners or email me on: woodwardj@btopenworld.com
Linda
Qualified Leader in Running Fitness
(Run England/England Athletics)
Post Office - 4/6/14
I actually feel sorry for the staff in the post office. They appear to have no room to work comfortably, squashed at the back of a newsagents, it's dark and miserable and far too small for the size of the town. What a pity the old proper post office building couldn't be reopened. Failing that, how about moving it to Budgens where they could at least be given a spot with a bit of daylight and room to move, and then more people might use our town centre supermarket.
Name Supplied
ED(GW) In Budgens- Great idea- but I guess McColls owns the PO
Portwell Seating- Artist in Residence - 4/6/14
The nationally acclaimed sculptor Tim Shutter has now started work on the Portwell Seating! He'll be in Faringdon working onsite until next Thursday the 12th June, working on the lettering ( "of Silliness. Mistrust" on the back - and "A Man who never has the occasional Flash" on the front ) . Other commitments then take him away from the diver and Faringdon. During July he'll be working on the diver - but most of this will be in his studio in London. Installation and stonework ( including fixing of cracks) will then take place during August .
DO pop along to the Portwell to say hello! The intention is that his onsite sculpting is completely open to public viewing .
Sjoerd
A417 Closure petition - 4/6/14
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
228 signatures so far
Have you signed it yet?
More information about this and The A338 bridge refurbishment on http://www.wantageandgrove.org/rail_bridges.php
Super fun singing- Ferndale House Community choir - 4/6/14
We met for the first time last evening, with Louise Woodgate leading us. It was so good- great songs, a relaxed and fun evening.
More people are wanted Men and women. Come and give it a try Tuesday 10th.
7 – 8.30 pm in the School Hall at Ferndale House Preparatory School, 5 - 7 Bromsgrove, Faringdon SN7 7JF
Entry by the front gate in the evening.
£2.50 per session – wine and nibbles included.
Louise is a well know local soloist and has 25 years teaching experience with both adults and children and currently teaches children at Burford School, Abingdon Preparatory School and adults from her studio in Highworth. Louise will be introducing a wide repertoire ranging from musical theatre, classical, pop, folk, through to jazz and the main aim is to promote the enjoyment of singing.
For further information call 01367 240618
Post Office
The post office in faringdon should be moved where it can be seen to OPEN on time. It is rarely open at 9am staff arrive at the shop at 8.50 and expect to open on time.
There is no privacy and staff are not very helpful.
The post office in Carterton is open at 8.30 placed in Big store and Many faringdon people use that post office.
I have written many times to post office but nothing done still opens when they feel like it.
Name supplied
Emergency Road Closures - 4/6/14
I very much agree with Thomas Tankerengine who considers that the emergency services should tell us what plans they have to safeguard the town during the A417 and A420 closures.
Travel times even on blue lights from two important ambulance standby points (i.e. Didcot and Wantage) will be considerably increased by the proposed A417 closure. Ambulance travel times to the nearest A&E hospital (Great Western) will also be impaired by the A420 closure. In any emergency situations, time is of paramount importance to seriously ill or injured people. Any delay can cost lives. Let's hope that the emergency service's contigency plans are robust.
I'm sure that the First Responders will do their utmost to help as best they can but they are not a substitute for professional ambulances, neither can they provide 24 hour cover to the town.
Name Supplied
Petition for improvement - 3/6/14
If you do create a petition for road & rail improvements I will gladly sign it.
I don't think anyone here has said they don't want the infrastructure improved, they are just frustrated at the manner it which it's being done.
Thomas Tankengine
Bridge replacement- 3/6/14
Yes we want improved railway and roads, and yes there needs to be some closures to achieve these, but 4 months is a very long time. What is very unclear is if Network Rail and Oxfordshire County Council have done everything possible to minimise the closure.
It would be nice to know :
We know that Oxford CC and our County Councillor knew it was to happen. My guess is that Faringdon Town Council/Chamber of Commerce were consulted. Maybe our VWHDC councillors knew about it before the press article. OCC website makes no mention of it.
Not good enough
Local Yokel
Bridge Replacement - 3/6/14
A few people are being very misleading when they write comments claiming that "Networkrail can do whatever they want" .. This is Totally untrue .. These projects take considerable amounts of Planning , wich takes in most cases several years .. Permision is only granted to carry on with the work after consultations with councils , Highway agency , English Heritage , National Trust , Secretary of State for Transport , Passenger user groups , Environment Agency , etc , etc ,, to name just a few ..
Name Supplied
Online Petition - 3/6/14
Can anyone tell me where to find the Online Petition for people who actually DO want improvements to the Railway and worn out pothole ridden Roads resurfaced ...
Name Supplied
Public Meeting to be requested - 3/6/14
Thanks to everyone who has signed the petition so far. We nearly have 200 signatures and the stories people are sharing of the hardship this closure will bring are very striking indeed. Please continue to share the petition so we can present as strong a position as possible to OCC on why this decision is wrong.
I have also contacted some press so hope to raise awareness that way this week as well.
Cllr Heathcoat is chairing a Faringdon Traffic Advisory meeting at 9:30 on Friday at the Old Town Hall. The A417 will be discussed and everyone is welcome, but it is a regular committee meeting so other matters are likely to take precedence.
Therefore at the Town Highways Committee this evening I will suggest holding a public meeting specifically on this issue (preferably next week) so we can have a full discussion with Cllr Heathcoat (and any OCC officers) on their decision. I'll post the outcome of this evening's discussion as soon as possible.
Alex Meredith
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Road closure- police,ambulance - 3/6/14
One thing that probably should be brought up at Friday's meeting is what is being planned for Police & Ambulance cover if the road is shut? as most of the coverage for Faringdon seems to come via the A417. I'm sure the first responders will do their best, but covering all eventualities for 4 months doesn't seem possible.
Thomas Tankengine
Carers Week 9-15th June
Leaflets and information at Faringdon library for Carers Week
We offer information and support to family and friend carers.- Any adult supporting another adult
As part of carers week. Coffee morning Thursday 5th June, from 10am- 12 noon.
At the Faringdon Medical Centre, Volunteer Way
All proceeds to Helen and Douglas House hospice care
Contact Claire 242388
A417 road Closure/Petition - 3/6/14
143 supporters 3/6/14 08.44
Have you signed it yet?
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
A417 road Closure/Petition - 3/6/14
Can I suggest that people get in touch with Radio Oxford to get more publicity for this. They were quite effective in bringing the A388 road closure to everyone's attention and an alternative bridge is being put in place while the work is being done.
Name supplied
ED(GW) Who will do it?
Be Thankful - 2/6/14
Be thankful that the 420 and the 417 are closing this year - can you imagine the impact with all of the extra traffic that the new developments around Faringdon will bring in in a year or two; no, funnily enough, neither has OCC of VoWHDC, neither of whom seem to be taking steps to upgrade the infrastructure of the town to cope with the incoming masses (and their cars !!)
Hugh Cookson
Why would we need more free parking? - 2/6/14
Look at most other towns in any part of the UK and you would be hard pushed to find any where there is ANY free parking let alone two hours. And if you need more, it is a low amount of money, less than a pound. Are we really looking at scrapping this so that you can save a tiny amount of money? There was a comment regarding lowering rents and business rates in town,well, VoWH have, in fact, got a scheme in place where we business owners have a subsidy for the first 18 months of trade to help new business's get there feet underneath them.
There does seem to be a consensus of negativity towards town parking.How many of the people who drive and park in town actually need to? We walk to work and actively promote such, we try not to take up any spaces and leave the car at home. Saves us fuel too. I can understand if you have mobility problems, but there does seem to be a lot of people popping to the shops in the cars when they don't really need to.
It really has been a sad couple of weeks watching this escalate over a petty fine that has been given to someone who broke the rules. It doesn't matter by how long, just that you did. No right nor wrong, just a hard fact. You were late and were fined for it.
Can we have some positivity here for a change. We have a great market town, steeped in amazing history with stories that people pass on daily. We have a fantastic selection of shops, and if they don't suit your needs,well, you could always open up what you think would be good for the town. We have good food,excellent amenities and more to come, beautiful people and stunning walks. And free parking for two hours to enjoy this.
Name supplied
Lack of consultation and consideration - 2/6/14
I completely agree with Rob, there are indeed 'far worse things than having to stay around Faringdon.' Believe me, I would dearly love to spend my days pottering around taking my dog for a walk on our lovely country walks and spending money in our delightful town centre. Unfortunately though, life gets in the way somewhat and I have to work to earn money to feed my children and pay the mortgage! My work is in Wantage so I therefore commute up and down the A417 to get there. Whilst I am there, my children attend school in Faringdon.
The road closure is going to make life extremely difficult for me and a great many other working people like me (and those with families, schools and other business in Wantage and beyond). Not only am I going to struggle to get to work, but I am also going to feel somewhat cut off from my own children should there be an emergency.
This is not a minor whinge about potholes, nor am I disputing that money needs to be spent improving our rail network. It is however a moan and whinge (if you wish to call it that) about the lack of consultation and lack of alternative provision for the thousands of people who, like me, will be adversely affected by this closure.
Thank you Alex Meredith for a constructive response to this issue. I shall certainly sign the petition and publicise it. I shall also endeavour to get to the Faringdon Traffic Advisory meeting on Friday!
Right, moaning and whinging over...for now!
Anna
Staying in Faringdon - 2/6/14
I have no problem with staying around Faringdon - my employer on the other hand may not be so understanding...
Thomas Tankengine
Petition 'Keep our roads open' - 2/6/14
As has been commented on already, Oxfordshire CC has agreed to shut the A417 for FOUR months in the run up to Christmas. This has been agreed by the OCC cabinet (which includes Faringdon Cllr Heathcoat) without any consultation with Faringdon Town Council (or apparently anyone else for that matter)
It seems to me this could have a very negative effect on trade in Faringdon, and will compound the misery for residents and commuters after the A420 closure.
I have put together an online petition to try to get the decision reversed (as it has been for A338).
If you support the campaign to keep our roads open please can you sign the petition (it only takes a moment). Also Cllr Heathcoat will be explaining the OCC decision in more detail at the Faringdon Traffic Advisory meeting at the Old Town Hall at 9:30am on Friday if you would like to come and share your views.
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Alex Meredith
Re: 417 closure.- 2/6/14
"If people attempting to get out start getting squashed by large white balloons, we'll know who's behind it... "
Personally I can think of far worse things than having to stay around Faringdon. We have some quality country walks around the area and for the most part the town does gel well. If we had to get stuck somewhere I'm happy to be there. :)
Rob.
Road Closure- 2/6/14
Another interesting thing I have just found out is that Councillor Matthew Barber, Leader of the VWHDC who said it wasn't a viable option for Network Rail to close the bridge on the A338 lives in..... West Hanney, about half a mile from the bridge, but that's just a co-incidence.
The odd thing is he used to live in Faringdon, so he should have an idea of how much closing the A417 would impact the town.
Thomas Tankengine
Re Road closures.- 2/6/14
A417 closure September to December will mean commuters and other road users like myself will be diverted through Goosey and Denchworth.
The A420 will be closed in both directions for seven weeks starting on 21st July. The diversion route will be through Shrivenham and Watchfield. Should be interesing to see all the lorries and tipper trucks on these narrow roads, as they won't go via the A34 as the council would like. At least it's only a few months.
Regards Mark
A420 Closure- 2/6/14
As I understand it the Shrivenham by pass will be closed beginning on July for severn weeks. .HGV Goods vehicles over 7.5 tonsthat use the A420 as a route to M4 or A34 Botley are to be diverted from some way off, at the Botley and M4 J 15 and stopped if they try to get through Shrivenham.
Monica Graham
417 closure - 2/6/14
I've no issue with them upgrading the line - far better to fix what is there than spend billions on HS2, but does it really take 3 months to replace one bridge? - If Brunel had carried on at this pace he'd still be building the line now. The frustrating part is that this just seems to have been signed off with no real consultation or investigation into the impact. The potential detours will either be down roads that are already too busy now, or through the villages & anyone who has had to do that when the A417 has been closed knows that not really an option even in the summer, let alone Autumn/Winter as lorries using sat-nav get stuck in tiny roads.
The real cause is that Network Rail seem to want to do this with as little cost or impact to their revenues, but are happy for this to happen to everyone else.
With this & the A420 being closed there does seem a concerted effort by Oxfordshire County Council to isolate Faringdon - if people attempting to get out start getting squashed by large white balloons, we'll know who's behind it...
Thomas Tankengine
The Folly from above- 2/6/14
Just found, a super video of the Folly Tower and woodland, photographed with a camera on a remote controlled helicopter( Hexacopter and a Quad). See the link on the Follyfacebook page or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLZuRQR5HL0. Looks as if it was taken earlier this year.
Photographed by www.skyeyecam.co.uk. We're hoping to have something similar done while the poppies are in bloom
If you 'like' the Folly facebook page, you'll be kept in touch with events, news, new photos.
Folly Friend
A420 closed - 2/6/14
I was interested in the comment on the A420 being shut but there are no indications as to where and when (part from summer) in the minutes. Does anyone know this information as this is of course a major route and will have significant impact on residents of Faringdon.
Name Supplied
ED(GW) The Shrivenham bypass is closed
Ferndale House Community Choir Tuesday 3rd and 10th June - 2/6/14
We will be beginning a weekly programme of choir rehearsals and performances in September but perhaps you’d like to join us for our two Summer Term warm up sessions to meet Ferndale’s new Choir Mistress Louise Woodgate
7 – 8.30 pm in the School Hall at Ferndale House Preparatory School, 5 - 7 Bromsgrove, Faringdon SN7 7JF
Entry by the front gate in the evening.
£2.50 per session – wine and nibbles included.
Louise is a well know local soloist and has 25 years teaching experience with both adults and children and currently teaches children at Burford School, Abingdon Preparatory School and adults from her studio in Highworth. Louise will be introducing a wide repertoire ranging from musical theatre, classical, pop, folk, through to jazz and the main aim is to promote the enjoyment of singing.
For further information call 01367 240618
Parking - 1/6/14
Just a swift note to thank Ed for the information regarding the Faringdon Residents / Commerce quarterly meetings regarding the state of parking / traffic ; I will do some more research and may even join and put my two pennorth in - I'm quite loud and can be somewhat disruptive, but hey if that's what it takes to get the stupid rules overturned, so be it - be prepared !!! ;0))
Thanks again to all of the positive responses - as for the 'my watch is better than your's' malarkey, I thought it was only Americans who didn't get irony ; obviously wrong again then !!
Please don't forget this though people, I am only the vocal MINORITY, how many more are just voting with their feet and not using the facilities in Faringdon because of the idiotic parking diktats ?
Hugh Cookson
A417 closure - 1/6/14
Thought I'd look at the Traffic Advisory minutes to see information and discussion about the closure of the A417 at Challow. It's not mentioned in the March minutes, and the December ones are missing. Was it discussed I wonder?
There is comment about the A420 closure, where OCC say 'Good communication was felt to be of paramount importance'
I wonder why the A417 was not discussed, surely at this time OCC knew what Network rail plans were.
I've heard it said that building a temporary bridge would cost £30k, and for e6500 journeys it is not deemed necessary (by Network rail presumably)
Local Yokel
ED(GW) Traffic Advisory minutes can be found on this site
Vintage Cream Tea Party with live music at The Pump House Project. Sunday 22nd June' -1/6/14
Swan Lane ,Faringdon, SN7 7HL
www.thepumphouseproject.co.uk Charity no 1151905
The Pump House Project is delighted to bring you a Vintage Afternoon of entertainment.Please check your diaries and see if you can join us on Sunday 22nd June 2014, doors open at 2.00pm until 4.30pm
£6.00 per ticket to include ,homemade cream tea and Big Band entertainment from The Nathan Jones Allstars
Licensed bar and Raffle Please Reserve your Tickets from: Lou on 01367 242142 or info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk
All proceeds of this charity event will be going to improve what we provide to the Faringdon Community at the Pump House Project.
Builders Ede - 1/6/14
Are constructing 18 Apartments and 16 light industrial units, NOT an Aldi which is a rumour still being bandied about, behind the blue hoarding.
Jane Boulton
Broadband in Faringdon. Information from Oxford CC - 1/6/14
The information we have enables us to search on a postcode level as to whether the existing network infrastructure is to be upgraded to enable access to fibre broadband as part of the project. SN7 7JL is showing as within the planned upgrade. The postcode is showing as having telephone lines that are connected directly to the Faringdon exchange rather than to a cabinet in the road. This adds a level of complexity to the work and this work is not planned to begin until 2015. Hence, the information on the website indicates the end date for the project of December 2015 as the only date we definitively know at this stage. On a quarterly basis, the plans are updated to give a six month forward view. By the beginning of 2015 there will be more definitive information for this postcode available.
It is important to note that not all premises within a postcode area will necessarily be able to order superfast speeds (above 24mbps). Premises will be able to access a range of speeds – some will get superfast broadband and others will be able to get anywhere between 2Mbps and 24Mbps. There may be some premises that cannot be reached by the fibre network so alternative technology solutions will be deployed to ensure that all properties within the project area are able to order a minimum of 2Mbps.
The plans for the current scope of coverage may change or be delayed. This is because as the project progresses BT continues to undertake planning and survey work on the ground across the county. This involves going out on site to survey all the underground ducts serving homes and businesses in the planned coverage area. If surveys encounter unforeseen difficulties, plans may be forced to change.
More information about the planned rollout and pertinent information relating to the planning and deployment of the project can be found in our FAQ section, and we will be sharing updates via the newsletter as soon as new information becomes available.
SN7 7HY. (Library, Gloucester Street) This postcode is not within our intervention area as it is showing as already covered by commercial providers. The funding we are using to run the Better Broadband programme is subject to State Aid rules. State Aid rules specify that public funds can only be applied to areas where no credible commercial plans exist. Oxfordshire County Council ran an open market review in 2012 to determine the scope of the programme and in our review a commercial provider indicated they were planning to provide fibre broadband to that post code. We are currently in the process of running another open market review to update our information but currently that postcode is listed as being served by a commercial provider or falls within the plans of a commercial provider.
I hope this provides an update on where the programme is today. Further information is available on our website http://www.betterbroadbandoxforshire.org.uk
When I asked who the commercial provider for Gloucester St was I was told:
Unfortunately we are not able to share the results of the Open Market Review, however there are many sites that enable you to find out which providers offer services to your area, such as BT’s DSL Checker, Sam Knows and Think Broadband. The links to these sites can be found here - http://www.betterbroadbandoxfordshire.org.uk/contact-us.
ED(GW)
Non-emergency patient transport services consultation- 1/6/14
You've been invited to participate in the Non-emergency patient transport services consultation by the consultation manager
You are invited to have a say on our proposals for the non emergency patient transport service in oxfordshire. Please note that you will be asked to sign in to respond to the survey. If you have any difficulties accessing this consultation please email cscsu.talkinghealth@nhs.net
Communications and Engagement Team
https://consult.oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk/consult.ti/system/listConsultations?&sort=ca_opendate&dir=desc
Oxford Clinical Commissioning Group
There are four rides this week, all of which start from Faringdon Market place. These are
- Saturday, 08:00 - FFS training (Yellow). Training details
- Saturday, 09:00 - Blue, Violet and Red rides. Saturday details.
- Sunday, 11:00 - Dust off your bike (Green). Sunday details.
- Wednesday, 18:30 - Evening Off-road. Wednesday details.
Route files are available from the facebook page for satnav users. Dust off your bike uses the Green route and Violet uses the Red route.
Explanation of codes:
OOO: All off road - Mountain bikes only
ROO: Mostly off road (short road bits to connect the dirty stuff) - Mountain bikes preferred, hybrids at a stretch
RRO: Mostly on road (short dirty bits to avoid busy roads) - Hybrids and tourers would be best
RRR: All on road - Road bikes prevail
http://www.farcycles.org.uk/
Re: Can we get out of the Vale Council - 11/7/14
He,he. To Thomas Tankengine. You mean declaring UDI? Now that's an idea.
Green Witch
Can we get out of the Vale Council? - 11/7/14
Is there any way we can get out of being part of the Vale of the White Horse?. It seems pretty apparent that they care little about (and have scant knowledge of) Faringdon & that only Abingdon, Wantage & Grove matter to them. Mind you our member of parliament seems to take the "Didcot & Wantage" literally as well.
Thomas Tankengine
Would you like to gain a training qualification? - 11/7/14
OCVA may have the opportunity to run an Award in Education & Training Level 3 (previosuly PTLLS) delivered by the Abingdon and Witney College. This is an industry standard award for anyone teaching in the post 16 sector and the first step towards Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status. It is an introductory qualification for those who are about to embark on teaching (or who are currently delivery training without a qualification) and need to gain a basic toolkit of teaching and learning strategies. Entry is subject to an interview.
If we receive enough expressions of interest the participants will be able to choose how the course is delivered. The options could be:
- 3 hours a week during the day for 10 weeks
- 3 hours in an evening for 10 weeks
- or over 5 days in one week.
To register your interest in the course please email the OCVA Training Officer, Liz Pride on: liz.pride@ocva.org.uk by 14th July 2014.
Please let us know your name, telephone number, address and which delivery option you would prefer.
Patient Advisory Group for musculoskeletal services - 11/7/14
Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG) is currently reviewing the services that collectively meet the needs of patients with a musculoskeletal (MSK) related condition and are seeking patients who have experiences of musculoskeletal services to join a Patient Advisory Group.
Areas being reviewed within the Musculoskeletal service include;
· Orthopaedics
· Rheumatology
· Podiatry
· Orthotics
· Acute Physiotherapy
· Rehab Physiotherapy
· Mental Health Physiotherapy
In order to engage most effectively the integrated MSK project is seeking to set up a Patient Advisory Group (PAG) to include patients and carers, particularly those who have experience of local musculoskeletal services within the last two years and those who have links with other patient groups and can bring the views of a wider patient population. The PAG will need to meet on four occasions during July/ August as part of phase one to develop a business case – high level service model and contracting/procurement options.
If you would like to be involved with this piece of work, please could you contact me directly on 01865 334638 or by email julia.stackhouse@nhs.net, expressing how you have experienced the service in the last 2 years
Survey- Improving services in GP practices - 10/7/14
Please participate in the Improving Services in GP practices consultation.
We would like to ask you some questions about how you use GP services and your views on developing them for the future.
'Transforming Primary Care' is one of five key programmes of work for Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG). Recently, people in Oxfordshire have been asked about their access to general practice by HealthWatch, our health partners. We will be working with them to review the findings of their survey.
The survey builds on the feedback OCCG received from patients, the public and our stakeholders during an engagement programme that we ran in Autumn last year as part of the national 'A Call to Action on General Practice'. This new survey seeks to expand on what we have already been told to help shape a future strategy to develop general practice.
You can complete the survey online, or print a form and send it in via Freepost. Both by 18th August 2014
Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG)
Buses- 10/7/14
Sorry but it is laughable to say the extended bus service will be helpful to theatre and concert goers. No concerts I go to ever finish before 10:30 and even then you have to cross town to reach the bus stops. We need a truly usable night bus.
Name Supplied
Free Bottles for stall - 10/7/14
If anyone is organising a fete in the near future, I have a box of nearly thirty assorted bottles surplus to requirements - water, soft drinks, fruit shoots etc. - which would form the basis for a bottle stall or tombola. Small donation to Faringdon Peace Group appreciated but not required.
Contact via this website
Humpty Appeal - 10/7/14
Thanks very much for the update. It was so frustrating not to be able to attend because of work but fingers crossed that it gets turned down.
Marion Lowers
ED(GW) I forgot to add that the objections to the development from people in Faringdon were not mentioned (I assume as these are not a planning issue) though Gladman's statement of community consultation did include them.
Does anyone else who attended the appeal any more comments?
O2 Signal - 10/7/14
Yes i have also been having problems with the 02 signal droping from full to zero (emergency only) , my phone works fine at work or any where apart from when i'm at home in faringdon, and i can actully see the antenna on top of the station from my house, i contacted o2 through the guru chat on there page, and was told that the mast is fine its my phone, i explaned that it worked fine every where else, and was just told they would send another sim for the phone so was prety much fobed off. its exactly the same time last year i was having the same problem, and see workmen fixing the antanna. then it worked fine until now.
Name supplied
Humpty Appeal Hearing - 10/7/14
I spent some time at the Humpty Appeal- a mix of boredom/fascination/irritation
The nub of the appeal seems to me:
- Will the Planning inspector agree with VWHDC that the site is of sufficient landscape and wildlife value. He walked the site and viewed it from surrounding places, Folly
or - Will he agree with Gladman that it is nothing special, and anyway VWHDCs need for more housing overrides this. Gladman's barrister talked (for hours) about housing need.
The VWHDC barrister was excellent. She exposed the fact that the outline map in the original application had been changed (changing the location of the houses on the site, such that the view will be affected more) as a result of a 2nd Environmental study (the 1st was in December 2012)
It seems the content of the Design and Access statement doesn't now match the new map.
No mention in it of the need for a pumping station and tanks for foul water and drainage (due to the topology of the site), nor was they any map showing where it would be.
There was much talk about the preservation of the areas of high biodiversity (but not designated as such). Seems as if this will involve 'translocation' to another part of the site, which in turn involves 'cut and fill'. Nothing about this in the original application. Gladman argued that as the field is not managed for biodiversity ( ie it's for hay).Biodiversity will be improved as a result of the development. There will be a management plan for the designated open spaces. They argued that only the footpath was public space, the field is privately owned and therefore irrelevant as an amenity.
Rob Stewart spoke well about the Town Green Application. I think it was tactical that Gladman's barrister did not ask him any questions. It seems determining the Town Green application could delay any building by up to a year. Not good for Gladman who are the promoters of the site. They hope to sell the land with planning permission. The more risk of building not being possible within a reasonable time frame will affect the selling price of the land- and I guess their fee.
Similarly Gladman were arguing against having a condition that prevents any occupation of houses until the sewage system is upgraded.
Thames Water said they have applied for government funds, and seek to have the sewage system upgraded by April 2017. They are not seeking contributions from this or any other developers.
The appeal documents included a March 2013 copy of the Neighbourhood Plan. It was evident that they were disregarding it as it was thought to be in its early stages of development. This view was corrected, and the Planning Inspector was given uptodate (now finalised) Neighbourhood Plan and Evidence base.
Conditions/106
There was a lengthy discussion, where, on the whole Gladman were opposed to items other than the statutory services- schools, social services.
VWHDC requested ££ for improvements at the leisure centre, including an artificial pitch ( I think football only, not multi use). They said that the Leisure Centre is now outdated and needs considerable work.. No mention of the change from SOLL to GL as the contractor was made.
They also asked for ££ for a new Football Club pavilion (£17k I think). Gladman's view was that as this is not a VWHDC building, it was not eligible.
Oxfordshire County Council, as well as for schools, asked for a contribution to a new Adult learning facility at Grove. He said 'there is a good bus service'. Mike Wise put him right.
They also asked for contribution to a day centre - also at Grove. Mike Wise gave the Faringdon view on this, indicating more services in Faringdon are needed.
Mike talked about the Faringdon Town Council list of for 106 contributions. However he was not supported by VWHDC and Gladman said they had not been through the necessary process for 106 agreements. VWHDC did not include FTC in their pre appeal discussions with the developer.
The Planning Inspector will decide what 106 contributions are acceptable, if development is allowed.
The decision will be ' a few weeks'
I'm slightly hopeful!
The first day of the meeting was very well attended by local people, and fairly well throughout the week- between 3 and 6/7 people.
The VWHDC barrister was Mary Cook, Gladman's John Barratt, and the inspector was Anthony Lyman. Planning Inspectorate case but it's out of date.
ED(GW)
O2 Signal -10/7/14
Yes i have also been having problems with the 02 signal droping from full to zero (emergency only) , my phone works fine at work or any where apart from when i'm at home in faringdon, and i can actully see the antenna on top of the station from my house, i contacted o2 through the guru chat on there page, and was told that the mast is fine its my phone, i explaned that it worked fine every where else, and was just told they would send another sim for the phone so was prety much fobed off. its exactly the same time last year i was having the same problem, and see workmen fixing the antanna. then it worked fine until now.
Name supplied
GET SET FOR THE OXFORDSHIRE SCHOOL GAMES- 10/7/14
Schools from across Oxfordshire are set to descend on Abingdon for the Oxfordshire Sainsbury’s School Games Spring Festival sponsored by Abingdon School.
July 10th and July 11th 2014 will see up to 2000 young athletes from all schools take part in 33 competitions in athletics, basketball, football, hockey, netball, panathlon, and swimming. The winning school for each competition will be crowned Oxfordshire schools champions.
Host venues include Tilsley Park, White Horse Leisure & Tennis Centre, The Manor Preparatory School and Abingdon School.
With schools having qualified from local competitions organised by Oxfordshire’s network of School Games Organisers, the standard promises to be high and competition fierce.
Chris Freeman, Managing Director of the Oxfordshire Sports Partnership, said:
“Building on the great success of the past, this year’s Summer Festival promises to offer the young athletes of Oxfordshire the chance to showcase their talents. With young leaders supporting the delivery of all competitions, and pathways to transition to high-quality community sport, the Oxfordshire Sainsbury’s School Games programme provides the foundation to develop a habit of physical activity for life.”
The Oxfordshire Sainsbury’s School Games Summer Festival will take place on Wednesday 2nd April. For further information visit www.oxfordshiresport.org/School-Games or www.yourschoolgames.com
Oxfordshire Sports Partnership
Ice cream van driving me mad! - 9/7/14
Anyone else have a problem with the ice cream van in Faringdon and its musical chimes? All I seem to hear all day long at the weekends and from afternoon onwards weekdays is b***** popeye the sailor man - If I hear it one more time, I'll scream! ;)
Actually, Defra have the following code of practice under section 71 of the control of pollution act 1974. This van definitely breaks many of these, continually sounding his chimes over long periods of time...
Paul Gale
o2 Signal strength in Faringdon - 9/7/14
Has anyone else has a problem with signal strength from the o2 mast on the Fire Station in Faringdon?
I found my Nokia 925 dropping signal frequently in a static location up Stanford Road, so I blamed the phone and was going to send it back to Nokia under warranty, but it has a micro SIM so I needed another phone to continue to use my contract.
The Consultant
More buses - 9/7/14
It's great news about the additional evening bus at 22hrs from Oxford. However to call it a 'theatre' bus is something of a misnomer. Many of the evening performances at the Oxford Playhouse and the New Theatre end after 10pm, so theatre goers won't be any better off. A departure time of 22.30 would be much more helpful. I wonder if Stagecoach would be prepared to negotiate on this one?
Lynn Pettit
THE RAINBOW PEACE FETE AT COLESHILL - ANOTHER AMAZING AFTERNOON OF TRADITIONAL FUN!- 8/7/14
Quoting the well-known Buddist philosopher ( Anon) - "You can't have a rainbow without a little rain" ; we certainly had to make good use of the rolls of polythene sheeting on the saturday morning to keep things dry! But then the sun put its floppy hat on and shone down on another absolutely wonderful afternoon at the rainbow-themed Peace Fete in the beautiful grounds of Clockhouse, Coleshill. "This is what all Fetes should be like - absolutely perfect" - was one overheard quote.
Appropriately, human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell opened the Fete, first explaining that his crutches and broken foot were not the result of Mugabe's henchmen - but due to a simple argument with an escalator. After giving a thought-provoking and inspirational address, he then spent the rest of the afternoon sampling the array of delicious refreshments on offer, joining in the games and enjoying the live music and dancing.
For the children, the circus skills workshop was clearly one of the highlights. Many thanks to all the volunteers; to all the musicians who all gave freely of their time and talents; to Denny Andrews for again allowing us to use Clockhouse Gardens, and of course to everyone who came and enjoyed themselves. Hope to see you next year ; Saturday, July 4th, 2015 .
Humpty appeal update - 7/7/14
It's the last full day of the appeal Tue, 9.30. Gladmans Planning expert is tomorrow's witness. After being questioned by the VWHDC barrister, Rob Stewart, friends of Humpty Hill, will question him/her.
Following this will be a round table discussion on conditions (applicable if the appeal is upheld), then on Wednesday morning there will be a discussion about 106, planning gain. Faringdon Town Council will be included in this discussion.
ED(GW)
Thames Valley Police- 7/7/14
Read this months update for Faringdon from TVP
New Davis DIY - 6/7/14
Carl Booth ( Faringdon Motorist Centre) has opened a new DIY shop. It's where the mobility centre ( and in the 1960s WH Smith) used to be.
4A London St. 01367 240140.
It already looks well stocked and is soon to have a paint mixing machine.
Good Luck Carl
Ed(GW)
Faringdon Dramatic Society- long ago productions - 6/7/14
I am looking for programmes from long ago productions performed by Faringdon Dramatic Society. If you are a past member of the society or bought a programme at a play you went to see many years ago then please could you take a look at our archives http://www.faringdondramatic.org.uk/archives.htm from 1987 and below. If you have any of our programmes from that era could you please let me know - webmaster@faringdondramatic.org.uk
Ian Lee
Parking at Health Centre - 5/7/14
We are aware that there is a problem with parking, but don’t think that ‘outsiders’ parking here is actually a major issue. The Practice Manager gets in early most days and has been keeping an eye on it, and she usually recognises the cars as belonging to staff.
Part of the problem is that we definitely need more parking to accommodate our growing population, and it’s on the list of things to discuss with NHS England regarding the size and capacity of the building – so that’s in the pipeline. This will take time and we won’t happen anytime soon though.
However, the other major factor is that with more services being offered on site, we have more visiting clinicians travelling to the building more frequently – physiotherapists, podiatrists, health visitors (about 6 now and we used to have 2), district nurses (the teams have been merged and housed here rather than having a base in Shrivenham), midwives, psychiatric consultant and nurses, drug and alcohol counsellor, aortic aneurism screening staff, dieticians, speech therapists etc etc. Almost every day we have one or more additional clinics taking place and when these teams have meetings in the health education room too, the car park is inundated.
We try to encourage locally based staff to walk to work, and maybe we should try to encourage patients to use the community bus or to walk whenever possible. I know that this isn’t always possible for the elderly and disabled, but if a few patients walked rather than bringing their cars it would make a difference.
WHMP
Re: Helpful ambulance service - 5/7/14
I don't think anyone would criticise the fantastic work the Ambulance Service & First Responders do - the comments were more in criticism of the way these services are being stretched to a point that is beyond the hard-working crews. Statistics are often used as a justification to show that reduced or centralised services are working or satisfactory, so if the statistics prove that they are not something should be done to address that - the NHS is far from a bottomless pit, but I'd rather see them employ more ambulance crews rather than statisticians, image consultants etc.
Thomas Tankengine
Peaceful Piano Project - 5/7/14
Are you aged 60 years and live in Faringdon? If so I would love you to be part of The Peaceful Piano Project.
This is an upcoming community creative arts event happening in Faringdon as part of Folly Fest at the beginning of August.
The Peaceful Piano Project has taken 10 donated and unusable pianos and assigned each piano a local artist. That local artist has then been linked with a community group. The artist and group will work together to up-cycle these pianos into new works of art. Each piano is being sponsored by a local business. These 10 pianos will then be placed around the town to create a ‘Piano Path’ over Folly Fest weekend, creating an interactive art exhibition for the whole community.
I am Nicky Brown and I run my own craft business called Echodeco. I make a range of crafts which I sell and I run craft workshops, teaching ways to up-cycle unloved items and fabric to turn them into new treasures.
I have been assigned one of the pianos. Our piano is being supported by Faringdon Upholsterers and my community group is the over 60's.
If you over 60 years old and live in Faringdon or you know someone who is would like to invite you to work with me to create a piece of piano art.
My vision is to transform the piano so it looks like a button backed sofa.
The fabric will be made from many patchwork squares, each one different to the others and made by as many people as possible. I estimate that it will take at least 100 squares to cover the piano. (and a few more for the piano stool)
If you would like to take part, here are the details.
1. Any fabric, bead, button etc that you use MUST be re-cycled. Look in your wardrobe, sewing box, ask friends for materials or buy from Charity shops. Please do not buy anything brand new for this project.
2. You may use any material you like- cotton, knitted, crochet, lace, leather etc.
3. Squares may be embellished anyway you like- applique, beaded, ribbon, buttons, embroidery, handwriting etc.
4. Finished and hemmed squares must be 8 inches by 8 inches in size.
5. You make make as many squares as you like, so long as they are all different.
6. The date for completion of all squares is FRIDAY 18th JULY
Please call me if you need any further information or to collect your completed square (s) on 01367 240108 or drop them in to me at 5 Carters Crescent,Faringdon
This is such an exciting event to be involved in and I hope that you will join me to make our piano stand out from the crowd.
Please pass this invitation on to anyone you know how is over 60 and may wish to take part.
Nicky Brown
Childs bicycle- 4/7/14
A pink bicycle has been found hanging from the lights on top of the Portwell.
If you think it might belong to your child then please call into the Tourist Information Centre, Glos Street to collect it.
TIC
Parking at Health Centers - 4/7/14
There are two doctors practices at the site, the is also a physio and other health services using the building such as eye screening and dieticians so maybe just because the waiting room may have looked empty other parts of the building may have been busy. There is also the Breast Screening Unit parked in the car park this takes several parking bays. There may be more staff around using the parking. I have often thought it would be a good idea for the staff to have a car park at the lower end of the building.
Monica Graham
Help Needed - 4/7/14
Can anyone help the Faringdon Town Team to set up 10 stalls at Faringdon artisan market tomorrow morning (8.30am set up, be finished by 9.30am) PLEASE?
contact Andy Hayter 07552 788994
Faringdon Independents' Day Market, 5th Jul- 4/7/14
There will be what we hope will be the first of many Saturday markets on 5 July, when Faringdon celebrates its very own independent shops. This first Saturday market will be geared towards arts and crafts, and it is anticipated that there will be up to 10 stalls occupying the spaces where the traditional Tuesday and Farmers' markets take place in the market square. We are planning to include entertainment during the morning, all of which is designed to make the town centre the vibrant hub of our community. The market itself will start at 9.30am, so we look forward to seeing you there!
No parking spaces at health centre - 4/7/14
Could someone explain why twice this week when attending Doctors appointments at the White Horse Surgery during the day, that there have been no parking spaces available. Not only did this made me late for my appointments, but it was quiet in the Doctors Surgery on both occasions.
Someone there said that they believe that people from out of town are parking there to catch the Bus into Oxford. If so, this is totally unacceptable and something must be done about it.
name supplied.
Helpful ambulance service - 3/7/14
I have read the comments about the Ambulance service and
I felt I should come in on their side .This year I have had to use the 111 service, twice for my Husband and once for myself. I have found them to be really helpful. I had the services of a first Responder ( Ian from Stanford in the Vale ) and Paramedic when I needed help and when I needed to be Hospitalised the Ambulance was there in no time. We have a N.H.S. that is over-stretched and it needs more funding. There are cuts that can be made but it will take a braver man than Mr Hunt to do it
Ann
Plants wanted - 3/7/14
Faringdon Free Food are organising a marathon planting session in the next few weeks. We would like to ensure that the town looks fabulous for FollyFest. In order to achieve our goal we would like to ask for plant donations from our fellow Faringdonians. If you have extra plants or are dividing your plants in the garden and would like to put them to good use, please donate your plants to us and we will make sure that they are planted around town. We would prefer edible plants but we are not fussy and we can find a home for almost type of plant. If you would like to donate plants then please either send us a message via FB or use our website to send us an email (www.faringdonfreefood.org).
Albania Grosso
Health Education England are recruiting members to its Patient Advisory Forum - 3/7/14
Health Education England is currently recruiting members to its Patient Advisory Forum. If you are interested in joining the forum please read the following information provided by Health Education England:
Health Education England (HEE) exists for one reason alone: to help improve the quality of care delivered to patients by ensuring that our future workforce has the right numbers, skills, values and behaviours to meet their needs today and tomorrow.
We are committed to ensuring that patient and public voice is at the centre of what we do and are looking for applications from patients, service users, carers and relatives of patients, and the general public to become a Patient and Public Voice Partner on HEE’s new Patient Advisory Forum.
If you are passionate about ensuring the patient voice is present and powerful, place high value on ensuring equality of opportunity and are committed to promoting and championing diversity we want to hear from you.
It is important that you have a keen interest in the NHS, a commitment to the values set out in the NHS Constitution and can provide challenge, help find solutions and keep us focused on our ambition of ensuring patient and public voice is at the centre of what we do.
For more information and to apply please visit: http://hee.nhs.uk/work-programmes/advisory-groups/ or contact Catherine Dale, Strategy Lead:
T:0113 2952080
E: HEE.PAFrecruitment@nhs.net
Closing date: 5pm 16th June 2014
Park Road/Tescos junction - 3/7/14
Can't understand what the problem is. The junction, whichever you are using is much better than before . Yes you do have to be careful, but shouldn't you be always? The visibility in all directions is good, yes the traffic is fast in spite of speed limit, but that is true of all roads everywhere. And I have used all the different roads, turning right, left and both sides.
Sylvia Bowley
Buscot Park Frescoes - 2/7/14
I was lucky to be included in a private tour of Buscot Park recently. Roger Vlitos, the assistant curator at Buscot Park, told us the stories behind the frescoes on the walls and ceiling of the little theatre. Lord Berners features quite prominently. I've created a web page about the frescoes, so you can read about them on this site.
Of course you can see them for real on Buscot Park open days (gardens every day til end September, House Wed, Thur, Fri and alternate weekends.
http://www.buscot-park.com/visitor-info
ED(GW)
Ragwort - 2/7/14
Hart avenue (Road) ie the one along between the Swan Pub and before the left turn towards the Southampton street Car Park.
There growing on the left hand side is the poisonous rag wort plant in flower. It must be removed from the left curb. It is a weed that can cause serious symptoms. even by pulling out with bare hands.
Notice to all families with pushchair's and small children. Do not stop and give to the children despite their screams for a flower. It is a yellow flower. Farmers have to remove this plant from all cattle food as cows can die if they eat it.
Oxford shire County Council is responsible for removing the plant - using gloves
Daphne Saunders
ED(GW) You can report ragwort to Oxfordshire CC via Fix my street
Tesco exit+ - 2/7/14
At the opening of tesco I pointed out 2 issues.
1. The crossing that was right on the bend was a danger. This since had been removed
2. I pointed out that the exit to tesco was a real issue.
The answer I received was. " experts have looked at it very carefully and I should be reassured it's fine!
Here we are few months down the road and the town folks are finding the exit an issue.But what do I know!!!!!
The self check outs never work properly. If you are hard of hearing you would not hear the scanner work. I've pointed this put so many times. They just don't listen.
Name supplied
Children on scooters - 1/7/14
I cannot believe the amount of parents who are happy to let there children race off in front of them on their little foot scooters from the primary school, some cannot control them properly while others have near misses with other pedestrians and are very close to the road edge. The footpaths leading from the school are not wide enough. Come on parents have some road sense because you would be first to criticise if it was your child involved in an accident!! The council should intervene in this with prohibiting signs.
Richard Barnes
Exit from Tesco - 1/7/14
With reference to the comment by Name Supplied - I half agree with their comment about "because the road is so busy and fast". The half I totally agree with is that it is busy & indeed busier than it used to be - I have to disagree with the "fast" comment because legally it is still within a 30 mph limit, which isn't fast UNLESS people are blatantly ignoring the speed limit, which apparently they are. I have also turned right from Tesco back into the town and also turned right up Park Road from Marlborough Gardens towards the A420. Yes it does take more care & a lot more observation than before Tesco was built - you have to look 3 ways not 2 to include the entrance/exit to Tesco's, but if cars going along Park Road to or from the Town were complying with the 30mph limit and driving within that limit or the road/traffic conditions, there would not be an issue. I am sure Tesco had to go through Health & Safety Analysis ref the road markings and junction as part of their planning process - but that would have been conducted purely based on the legal speed limit, which did not necessitate a roundabout, rather than the actual speed that drivers ignoring the limit are doing. Perhaps Thames Valley Police with hand held speed cameras might get the message across
Teresa Reynolds
Tesco junction - 1/7/14
Just to clarify my point about driving....this is not a bad junction which ever way you cut it from any direction, the road markings, the signs the warnings are all satisfactory and give drivers plenty of opportunity to exit,turn or enter with a degree of safety ...but you can't compensate for the imbecilic driver who drives far too quickly & ignores all of the visual signs that mean you should always be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary.The sentiment here js bad & potentially dangerous driving but I do take on board the "name supplied's comment"....I'll repeat myself again....just drive safely
Allan Barrow
1909 picture, Park Road - 1/7/14
Checking on the Park Road picture on the photo section I also spotted at the top of Marlborough Street Dr. Pulling's house (or was it Pullin).? Does anyone else remember him and nanny? He was our family doctor when I was very young and was replaced by Dr. Tobin.
Margaret Haddon nee Rogers
Exit from Tesco - 1/7/14
I agree it's a bad junction and I really believe there's an accident waiting to happen.I've never turned right onto Park Road with 100% confidence from there because the road is so busy and fast and you can't see far enough. I imagine it will get worse with the new housing development and school which are planned. It's such a wide road to cross now and there just isn't time. Turning right out of Marlborough Gardens is as bad. Why a roundabout wasn't put there I don't understand.
Name supplied
Park Road- exit right from Tesco - 1/7/14
Here's something to consider whilst you munch your breakfast....you exit out of Tesco to the right in your car....if you look right for approaching traffic you can see about 140ft before eye contact is lost to traffic due to the bend...so after looking both ways and right again to check you decide to go because it is safe( ask me for the equation to work it out)...then when you haven't even got to the far side of the road imagine a car right next to you on your offside ( drivers door)...with a 2 finger gesture and an angry look.....150ft in less than 2 seconds round a bend with a supermarket entrance with lots of kids....equals about 49mph in a 30mph limit.what chance do children,cyclists or less experienced drivers have...my car camera doesn't point sideways otherwise I'd have the evidence for the police as the camera works out distance to speed ratio but only pointing forwards so to those who don't drive according to road conditions...take it steady,be prepared to slow down or stop in the distance you can see and we will all live a bit longer. Allan (ADI)
Park Road, Faringdon c 1909 - 1/7/14
Do have a look at the picture in the photos section of this site- early to mid 20th century link. It's a view of Park Road and Folly Hill (before the tower was built). I can make out the Railway station. The cottages to the right have been demolished and I think became JDS and now Tesco. I can't make out much else. Can you?
Thanks to Daphne and Pat Saunders for the picture and to Al Cane for cleaning it up.
Ed(GW)
Re Messy paths - 1/7/14
You can report the state of these paths to Oxford CC via Fix my street .
Name Supplied
Re. Emergency Response Times.- 1/7/14
No surprise to me, as my best mate is a senior Paramedic. In rural counties such as ours, many areas will never be reached within 8 minutes. Never have been and never will. Don't believe what the suits say, just talk to those on the front line. In these litigious days, an ambulance/paramedic car can be sent can (to err in caution), but there are not enough staff and they work horrendous hours. I know of two accidents involving ambulances recently that were due to overworked staff. Many do not even get any food breaks. With up to a third of calls to the call handlers (also Ambulance/paramedics) being time wasters including calls for hangover cures, no electricity, lost cat, no lightbulbs in the house ( i kid you not!), drunk and drug related problems (many). I can see why staff are leaving in their droves, including my mate who is fed up with never seeing his children. There lot is not a happy one.
Regards Mark
Re: Performance of Ambulance service in Faringdon. - 1/7/14
The stats. for Faringdon make worrying reading. Do they provide any information on where the ambulances are deployed from?. February of this year looks particularly bad with only 13% arriving within 8 minutes & if memory serves me correctly that was around the time of the regular closure of the A417 due to flooding.
Thomas Tankengine
Performance of Ambulance service in Faringdon - 1/7/14
Have a look at the performance figures for April and May 2014(Excel). Doesn't make for good reading. If you made an emergency call designated as red/urgent(Red 2), in these months, there was only a 39% chance that someone would arrive within the laid down target (8 mins)
Performance since April 2013 has varied from 13% to 69%
While the data doesn't mention First responders , it is known that these figures include their work. Thefigures would be even worse if First responders were taken out of the calculation. The national target for someone to arrive (Ambulance/medic or First Responder is 75%)
ED(GW)
Messy paths - 1/7/14
I think its about time the council got off their butts and sorted out the hobble between Park Road and Southampton street instead of wasting money on things like statues and stuff like that.
It is such a mess and overgrown with weeds and brambles I have to duck walking down it and have to make sure my kids stay in the middle of the footpath to avoid stinging nettles and dog mess. Also the footpath up to the doctors from Southampton street is just as bad. Come on council get your act together and get these areas tidied up.
Jon Townsend
Ambulance Service Survey - 30/6/14
There is only one week left to complete our annual Member and Patient Survey and for you to have your say about our services and membership.
We asked you recently if you could complete our anonymous Member and Patient Experience Survey so you can tell us your views. More than 270 people have done so already, but if you have not yet completed the survey, I would be grateful if you could find a minute or two to do so.
Information is submitted anonymously via https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/7TN6FWY. Deadline: Monday 7 July.
Please don’t hesitate to call the Membership Office on 01869 365126 for more information or email getinvolved@scas.nhs.uk.
SCAS South Central Ambulance Service
Meeting for library volunteers - 30/6/14
We are holding another meeting of FLAG (Faringdon Library Associates Group) on Tuesday 8th July in the Library at 7pm. The purpose will be to discuss the group’s progress so far, consider how well the Volunteer system has been working and how we can further help in ensuring that our local library continues to thrive. If you are interested in being part of the group, wondering what the group does, would like to help by working in the library, or are just inquisitive do please attend. No need to let us know that you are coming just turn up.
If you want to become a working volunteer then we provide an induction morning to show how the library systems work, outline the various duties you will perform and show you what Oxfordshire Libraries provide for the community. If you decide to become a volunteer worker we try to accommodate everyone’s wishes so that you can work half a shift, a full shift (3 hours), regularly once a week or once a month, or on any day that suits you and fits in to the library schedule.
If you can’t make the meeting but are keen to become involved then email me through the address shown on this site’s library information page.
Regards………….David Turner FLAG volunteer co-ordinator
Places going fast for popular summer challenge - 30/6/14
The Farcycle FollyFest Sportive (FFS) is back in 2014 in an even better British Cycling graded format. This gorgeous Cotswold event starts and finishes in the Market Place on the 2nd of August. There are 3 choices of route, ranging from 35 to 111 miles.
Last year’s event was oversubscribed so we have increased the entry limit, especially as we now need to accommodate the epic new 111-mile route that is already proving popular with early entrants. The FFS’s popularity stems from its friendly atmosphere and attention to detail such as the food and the routes. The latter are chosen from our back yard favourites that we, the Farcycles (pronounced Farcicals), cycle frequently. Of course, we are most fortunate that our back yard takes in the incomparable Costwold scenery, not to mention the hills. Feedback from last year’s event included:
“I have done a lot of sportives over many years and this was the best”
“Thank you very much for a fantastically well organised event. Everything about it was brilliant! … Here’s to next year!”
“I just wanted to say thanks for organising such a fantastically enjoyable event. It was a great route, challenging enough but with some rewarding vistas of the Cotswolds to marvel at. The whole day was beautifully organised from the route planning and marshalling to the outstanding hospitality. The cakes and lasagne were a real treat.”
The route options in more detail are:
- The Gentle Challenge - 35 miles of spectacular rolling Cotswold countryside; just enough to extend those who think cycling should be a relaxing, pleasurable experience,
- The Full Monty - 70 miles of even more breathtaking countryside with some added challenges for people who cycle regularly,
- The Epic Cotswold test - 111 miles with some serious bits although, if you can bear to press pause on your competitive streak for the odd minute here and there, the scenery is worth taking a peep ...
Further information can be found at www.facebook.com/FFsportive.
There are places left but they are being eaten up quickly, so make sure you enter today at https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/104320/Farcycle-FollyFest-Sportive-2014
We are also looking for volunteers to be marshals and other ways of helping on the day, so if you'd like to be involved but not cycle, then contact us at: farcycles@gmail.com
David Williamson
WHMP are collecting unwanted medications to send to third world countries - 29/6/14
White Horse Medical Practice are now collecting unwanted medications so that they can be recycled and sent to third world countries. They have to have at least 15 months until their expiry date as this allows time for them to be collected, shipped and distributed. We cannot take out of date items.
Give them to the receptionist at the Health Centre
Ref message to Mr Wilson about Ex Pupils -28/6/14
Anyone at any age at any level of education can attain their full potential perhaps an e mail to the school may encourage them to put Josh's achievement in the school newsletter
Scott Gildert
Free public Wi-Fi in Faringdon provides possible solution to business broadband needs - 27/6/14
People visiting the centre of Faringdon can now take advantage of free public Wi-Fi.
The new service is available in the Market Place for people to browse the internet while visiting the regular markets, doing their shopping, travelling to work or sitting in the Market Place.
The free Wi-Fi will allow people to get online quickly to find out information about local services, attractions and locations; meaning that they may explore more of the town, spend more time in the town centre, or are simply able to respond to urgent work inquiries while having lunch in the town centre.
The first time you use the service, you need to sign in to agree to the terms and conditions that are there to protect users – you can sign in via Facebook, Twitter or simply give your email address on an on-line form. The system will then recognise your IP address and you do not need to sign in for subsequent visits.
The scheme is being provided by the Vale of White Horse District Council through provider STL Communications. The Wi-Fi equipment is hosted by Faringdon Town Council and Marriotts estate agent. The scheme has been supported by Faringdon Chamber of Commerce as town centre businesses do not presently have access to superfast broadband. The WiFi service will provide speeds of up to 14Mbps, which is faster than speeds currently available within the town, although it is not superfast.
Cllr Elaine Ware, cabinet member for economic development at the Vale, said: “The free public Wi-Fi will offer visitors to Faringdon town centre more freedom to find out information, work, or go online while they are having a coffee. We hope that people will make the most of the new service and use it to find out more about the local area and hopefully spend more time in the centre of Faringdon.”
Paul Brame, chairman of the Faringdon Chamber of Commerce said “Now that we have the new WiFi infrastructure in Faringdon, it provides businesses in the town centre with an opportunity to work with STL Communications to get access to superfast broadband. Any business interested in pursuing this option should contact Alan Rogers of STL Communications on ARogers@stlcomms.com or phone 01993 777129 to discuss your individual bandwidth requirements, and costs.
VWHDC
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal - 27/6/16
The Shoebox has been run in Faringdon for 15 years, coordinated from the United Church. Sadly the organiser is unable to continue, and despite appeaing for someone to take over, no one has come forward. There will no longer be a collection point in Faringdon.
It will still be possible to to contribute through other drop off points, which can be found on www.samaritans-purse.org.uk
ED(GW) If you want to take over, I suspect it's not too late. Contact this website and I'll put you in touch with the relevant person
New Hardware store in Faringdon- opens July - 27/6/16
London St, where the mobility shop used to be, or if you're a long term resident WH Smith (1960s)
ED(GW)
Re: 'Humpty' Appeal - 26/6/14
- I agree this appeal is at a bad time for most people, the same is also partially true of the Network Rail meetings. I'm not expecting people to work all hours, but for those of us who work out of town these things are difficult to get to.
I'm sure the Humpty meeting being at probably the furthest point of town from those most affected is just coincidental, but I would urge those who can to go - not just for this development, but to show the strength of feeling about all the other developments planned/ being forced on us. I understand the need for houses, but we need the infrastructure & facilities improved first as they are near capacity as it is.
Name Supplied
A short message for Mr Wilson about one of his ex-Pupils. An ordinary student......- 25/6/14
FOR THE ATTENTION OF MR WILSON – my email inspired by the encouragement of a few FCC teachers:-
I am writing to tell you about Josh, who has graduated recently from Swansea University with a 2:1 honours degree in Clinical Technology. He has also just started a job at The Royal Marsden Hospital in London.
My main reason for writing is that Josh’s story may help and encourage the more average student about what life after FCC can bring (with a bit of application and hard work).
You may recall Josh, not a particularly shining academic. However, after taking a year out to travel in Africa (Malawi to treat sick kids, and to Namibia to work on an animal reservation) he went on to Swansea University to undertake a course in the field of Nuclear Medicine (Clinical Technology – a field using state-of-the-art scanning equipment to diagnose and treat sick patients suffering with illnesses, mainly cancer). He has worked really hard, particularly over the last 2 years and has got this delightful result.
I thought you might like to know.
Kind regards
Neil
P.S. Josh and two fellow FCC pupils are also here this weekend as they are playing at Tuckers Park tomorrow as part of the Party-in-the-Park line up – maybe you or a few pupils and colleagues might want to say “Hi” to him, Mark and Elliot (band called YOUNG ROSIE).
'Humpty' Appeal - 25/6/14
Think you will find the attendance at the Humpty Hill appeal hearing to be poorly attended, not due to apathy but due to the fact that most people like myself will be at work. Why not hold a public hearing in the evening when most people can attend, or is that too much too ask. My Wife and I have worked hundreds of evenings and nights, why should public servants at this hearing be any different.
Regards Mark
Far Runners - Beginners jogging session (week2) - 25/6/14
Where - Faringdon Leisure Centre car park
When - Saturday 28th, 9.30am
Why - It's healthy, sociable, and totally FREE!!!
Any questions please contact me ( Linda Woodward) : woodwardj@btopenworld.com
Independents Day, 5th July - 25/6/14
David, thanks for your posting regarding Independents Day, and we apologise if we didn’t contact you in advance. Because of its proximity to the Farmers Market, this particular event is aimed at arts and crafts which don’t tend to feature in our traditional markets, and we hope that, if it proves to be a success, then we could plan other themed Saturday markets, which will involve more of our independent retailers. A useful forum for feedback and for hearing your views is the Chamber of Commerce, which meets on the second Monday of every month at 6.30pm and is open to retailers and members of the general public alike. We would encourage you to attend, as we think every retailer in Faringdon deserves to have their views heard.
Andy Hayter
'Humpty' Field appeal starts next Tuesday 1st - 25/6/14
It would great if lots of people turned up at the start of the appeal- to indicate to the inspector how important this field is to local people.
It starts on 1st July, 10am, Sudbury House
Iff you wish to speak at the hearing you need to be there on the first morning to register. The planning inspector will give a rough idea when the public speaking slot will be scheduled, but this will be subject to change depending on progress made.
He/she will give an indication of the timetable for the 7 days on day one.
ED(GW)
Network Rail local drop-in sessions for Challow Road (A417) bridge works - 24/6/14
Network Rail has organised two local drop-in sessions for the planned works at Challow Road Bridge A417. Representatives from Network Rail and their contractor will be on hand to provide more information and answer any questions and concerns from the local community.
1. Thursday June 26 between 4pm and 7pm at The Corn Exchange, Cornmarket, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7JA.
2. Wednesday 2nd July between 4pm and 7pm at Stanford in the Vale Village Hall, Hunters Field, Stanford in the Vale, SN7 8LX
kirsty.dickson@networkrail.co.uk
ED(GW) Petition now at 845. http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Theatre bus home from Oxford.- 24/6/14
As part of the recently improved Stagecoach route 66 bus service between Oxford and Faringdon, there is now a late bus from Oxford to Faringdon leaving at 2200 hours, Monday to Saturday, arriving in Faringdon at 2238 hours. This will be a big improvement for people who have attended the theatre or a concert.
Marcus Lapthorn
FollyFest Race Night - 24/6/14
The FollyFest Race Night at the Bobbin made £316.00 towards our funds.
Thank you to all the local people and businesses who sponsored the horses and races, and to all who came out to bet on the races and support us.
FollyFest Committee
Proving that Am-Dram doesn't have to mean wooden acting and shaky sets,- 24/6/14
FARINGDON DRAMATIC SOCIETY has been nominated in all the following categories for National Operatic and Dramatic Association awards for London and the South East Region.
Best Play - Wife After Death,
Best Panto - Scarlet Pumpernickel,
Best Male Performance - Andy Pritchard as Harvey in Wife After Death
Best Female Performance Carolyn Taylor as Vi in Wife After Death
The winners of the trophies will be announced at the London Region Conference on Sunday 6th July.
Being nominated alone is a proud moment but we are keeping all our fingers crossed we bring some or all awards home!
Because we're worth it! Congratulations to All!
Fiona Merrick
pp Faringdon Dramatic Society
Live at the Park, 27th and 28th June - 24/6/14
Dear Neighbour
You may be aware that Faringdon Town F.C. will be holding Live at the Park in Tucker Park to raise funds for local charities on Friday evening June 27th from 7pm until 11.00pm and Saturday June 28th from 12.00pm until 11.00pm.
There are many activities for both adults and children taking place during the day on Saturday and local bands playing live music both Friday evening and Saturday so there will be something for all the family to enjoy.
As your property maybe adjacent to the park we understand that this event may cause some disturbance to your normal weekend routine. We have done all we can to keep this disturbance to a minimum and ask you to bear with us for this charity event.
You are of course welcome to attend and entry is free.
We look forward to seeing you and hope you enjoy your day.
Live at the Park Committee.
Free public Wi-Fi now available in the centre of Faringdon- 23/6/14
People visiting the centre of Faringdon can now take advantage of free public Wi-Fi.
The new service is available in the Market Place for people to browse the internet while visiting the regular markets, doing their shopping, travelling to work or sitting in the Market Place.
The free Wi-Fi will allow people to get online quickly to find out information about local services, attractions and locations; meaning that they may explore more of the town, spend more time in the town centre, or are simply able to respond to urgent work inquiries while having lunch in the town centre.
The first time you use the service, you need to sign in to agree to the terms & conditions that are there to protect users – you can sign in via Facebook, Twitter or simply give your email address on an on-line form. The system will then recognise your IP address and you do not need to sign in for subsequent visits
The scheme is being provided by the Vale of White Horse District Council through provider STL Communications. The Wi-Fi equipment will be hosted by Faringdon Town Council and Marriotts estate agent. The scheme has been supported by Faringdon Chamber of Commerce as town centre businesses do not presently have access to superfast broadband. The WiFi service will provide speeds of 14Mbps.
Cllr Elaine Ware, cabinet member for economic development at the Vale, said: “The free public Wi-Fi will offer visitors to Faringdon town centre more freedom to find out information, work, or go online while they are having a coffee. We hope that people will make the most of the new service and use it to find out more about the local area and hopefully spend more time in the centre of Faringdon.”
VWHDC
Volunteer Lock Keepers wanted - 20/6/14
See the Jobs and volunteering page
Ed(GW)
More roadworks! Frideswide Square. Oxford- 20/6/14
The current proposals are that the Advanced Works will start on Becket Street, Osney Lane, Hollybush Row and Worcester Street in September 2014. These will be completed by the beginning of December 2014.
The second phase of the works will be the construction of the actual Square. This is currently proposed to commence on site in February 2015, with current proposals for it to be completed by December 2015.
Marcus Lapthorn
Theft from Church - 20/6/14
Overnight between 17th and 18th June, offender(s) gained entry to the Church of All Saints in Church Street and pulled electrical cabling out of the ceiling before stealing it.
Anyone with information should contact PC Simon Charlton, at Abingdon Police station via the Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101.
Alternatively if you have information but wish to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online@crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Thames valley police
Faringdon Neighbourhood plan. Deadline for comments 28th June - 20/6/14
TheTown Council’s final 6 week consultation period with the residents of Faringdon began 17th May and will end 28th June
Do give your views
The documents and the feedback form is available on http://faringdonplan.webs.com/ or in the Town Council Office and the Library
Comments can also be emailed to hilary@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
The consultation closes on June 28th 2014
Network Rail local drop-in sessions for Challow Road (A417) bridge works - 19/6/14
Network Rail has organised two local drop-in sessions for the planned works at Challow Road Bridge A417. Representatives from Network Rail and their contractor will be on hand to provide more information and answer any questions and concerns from the local community.
1. Thursday June 26 between 4pm and 7pm at The Corn Exchange, Cornmarket, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7JA.
2. Wednesday 2nd July between 4pm and 7pm at Stanford in the Vale Village Hall, Hunters Field, Stanford in the Vale, SN7 8LX
kirsty.dickson@networkrail.co.uk
A417 - well thought out comments - 19/6/14
I would like to congratulate Councillor Judith Heathcoat for her very well thought out comments upon the A417 road closure. It is very rare to hear a politician saying something sensible!
Name supplied
Good News - Open meeting brought forward - 18/6/14
Great news - we are seeing some positive engagement from Network Rail as a result of the strong response to the plan to close the A417. They have brought forward their drop-in session at the Corn Exchange to next Thursday between 4-7.
Network Rail has also agreed that a Senior Programme Manager will attend the full public meeting on the issue. In order to accomodate his attendance the meeting will now be held at: 7pm Tuesday 22nd July Faringdon Corn Exchange
This will be the only opportunity to have all views heard with all stakeholders present. There is still time to change minds on this issue as the formal application to close the road has not yet been made, let alone approved.
Please do come along and support a better solution for the A417 if you can. Our petition now has over 700 signatures: http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Alex Meredith
Thank you lovely Faringdon - 18/6/14
Having spent the last couple of days pounding the streets with posters to advertise this years Infant and Junior School Summer Fete (5th July 2-5pm Infant School Grounds) we would just like to say a huge thank you to all the shops, businesses and members of the public who have agreed to display our fliers. We have been met with unfaltering good will from all quarters. The continued support from the wider community has been lovely.
We have a number of smaller posters on lamp posts in areas where they will be most noticed. We hope not to be irksome or overly obtrusive to those living there. We also have careful note of where these posters are and a plan to remove them once the event is over.
The Schools Fete is a great day out and not just for the school children and their families but for all in the town and we aim to have something for everyone from cream tea and cake to BBQ and a cold beer, live entertainment, side stalls, a market and bouncy castle. You can get involved and bake a cake for our competition or have the kids dress a bear for a chance to win a prize. We do hope you will join us.
A huge thank you must also go out to the many businesses and individuals who have made donations to our raffle or are contributing to the Fete with their time or resources. Without your continued support it simply could not happen. So thank you lovely Faringdon for all your help so far and if you haven't had us at your door cap in hand, don't be offended and prepare yourself we are still making our rounds in between school runs, baby changes and real world jobs. We would of course love to hear from you if you would like to add to the day, enter a competition or offer a hand. You can email us on faringdonpta@gmail.com.
Friends of Faringdon Infants
A417 Closure! - 18/6/14
So Judith when the A34 is closed and traffic is being pushed along alternative routes, and the A417 is to be closed. How exactly do I get to and from work, bearing in mind that I like numerous others work in Milton Park, Didcot, Harwell area etc?
Problems on the A34 is not a rare event unfortunately!
Will these back-roads, that you will no doubt be suggesting we use, be gritted and maintained during this time?
Only needs a problem on the alternative routes and we are all completely stuffed.
Name Supplied
A417 closure at Challow - 18/6/14
Nice to (finally) hear from someone who was involved in this decision, but it seems the bridge at Challow is going to be shut regardless. Hopefully at the meeting next month the land restrictions will be explained (looking at google maps linking the "road" that Network Rail use to access the track & the road that goes down to Jewsons seems fairly straight-forward compared with the A338, but I'm no engineer).
At the meeting it will be nice to know why it takes 4 months to take down one bridge & replace it (are they paid by the hour?), also if Oxfordshire Highways will use this effective closure of the road to implement the very long needed improvements at Stanford & Challow to stop the road flooding each winter?.
Network Rail finishing the job of schedule sounds nice, but looking at comments on other bridges they have replaced over-running seems more likely I'm afraid.
Thomas Tankengine
Result! - 18/6/14
I have had several offers of help following my plea for people to help me to check jigsaws for the charity shop! Thank you, Faringdon website!
Mary Beck
Faringdon Independents' Day, 5th July - 17/6/14
I welcome any promotion that markets and raises awareness of Faringdon. However, may I suggest that whoever is organising this event might actually want to speak to the independent retailers in the town to see how they can become involved...I thought that's who the day is meant to be aimed at!
David Reynolds
BT Vision problems? - 17/6/14
Does anyone have the same problem with your BT Vision. Getting no signal, unable to watch BBC or ITV
Virginia Durhaam
Summer Activities at The Pump House Project - 17/6/14
This summer we are hosting a variety of projects and workshops. So far we have the following:
The Glee Project for ages 7-11
Hardcore Parkour for ages 10+
Dance Project for ages 12-19
Arts and Crafts workshops for ages 5-15
Please visit www.facebook.com/thepumphouseproject for more information, dates, how to book etc.
Any enquires to be emailed to our Project Co-ordinator Kealy at info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk.
Kealy Whenray
By Councillor Judith Heathcoat – closure of A417 - 17/6/14
The closure of a road is never something that the county council undertakes lightly, especially when it is such an important one like the A417.
It is always a last resort, whether the reason for a full closure is for county council work, such as repairing worn out roads, or something to do with utility company work being undertaken by Thames Water or Southern Electric.
We know that having a full closure creates real disruption to people’s daily routines – we know it because we are affected ourselves, whether as county council staff or councillors. We’re Oxfordshire residents too.
The plans to electrify the Great Western mainline lie behind the reason for the bridge work that is in turn leading to the A417 closure. For the line to Bristol and south Wales to be electrified, in line with government wishes, a great deal of infrastructure work needs to be done.
The installation of overhead wires means changes to bridges, which in turn means disruption to road networks all along the route – we are not alone in our part of Oxfordshire or in the south of England.
Sadly, unlike similar cases elsewhere in Oxfordshire, there is no viable alternative to the closure of the A417 bridge because of land restrictions in the area. Believe me, if there were viable alternatives, I would have been pressing extremely hard for them to be used.
As a county council, we work very hard to minimise the impact of things like bridge closures on local communities and the road network in general. However we also have a legal obligation to work with organisations like Network Rail when huge improvement schemes like the one taking place on the Great Western line are proposed.
I’m sure we can all agree that the sooner the work is complete, the better – both from the perspective of the job the rail industry is seeking to complete, and from the perspective of local people who want normality on our road network.
Councillor Judith Heathcoat
Traffic impact - 16/6/14
Can anyone from the Traffic Advisory Committee tell me what has been done to assess the impact of the level of new proposed housing for Faringdon on the A420? During rush hours the A420 already resembles an urban trunk road with long tailbacks around Faringdon and Southmoor. How is this addressed by the FNP? The answer is, of course- it isn't. Are we to expect a dual carriageway and large roundabouts to eat up yet more land between Faringdon and the Coxwells in the next 2 or 3 years?
Ann Hoare
Faringdon Independents' Day, 5th July - 16/6/14
There will be what we hope will be the first of many Saturday markets on 5 July, when Faringdon celebrates its very own independent shops. This first Saturday market will be geared towards arts and crafts, and it is anticipated that there will be up to 10 stalls occupying the spaces where the traditional Tuesday and Farmers' markets take place in the market square. We are planning to include entertainment during the morning, all of which is designed to make the town centre the vibrant hub of our community. The market itself will start at 10am, so we look forward to seeing you there!
Public meeting re A417 closure. 10th July - 16/6/14
The public meeting about the A417 closure has been set for Thursday 10th July at 7pm at Faringdon Corn Exchange.
Ed
To Tesco customers - 15/6/14
Just a quick message to all the loyal customers of Tesco Faringdon to thank them for their patience over Saturday and Sunday this week following our refrigeration failure leading to very poor stock levels over the weekend. The issue was caused by the electrical storm on the early hours of Saturday morning. There have been some queries about why all the products had to be disposed of so I thought I'd quickly clarify. When it comes to food safety we take no chances and all the data in store told us the refrigeration reached temperatures over 15-18 degrees during the failure. That said our absolute priority was food safety hence all the fresh products had to be disposed of. The good news is I fully expect us to be back to normal in terms of stock levels by Tuesday morning at the latest although things will be vastly improved by late morning on Monday. If you'd like to talk to me about this more, please ask for me in store.
Thanks
Carl
Foxgloves at Badbury Wood.- 14/6/14
Having read the reports on the poppies around the folly, I thought I would let you know about the wild Foxgloves growing at Badbury Wood. There is a wonderful display of Foxgloves or to give it its correct name Digitalis in Badbury wood at the moment. It is the best display I have seen there in some 25 years that I have been walking my dogs around the woods. For those of you who visit Badbury Wood to see the bluebells I am sure you would enjoy the display of this lovely flower, just walk down the fire road from the car park and you will come across this wonderful display of this very colourful flower. If you do intend to visit , do not leave it to long because they will be soon be going over. Also be careful of the car park there are some very large potholes at the entrance. (National Trust please note)
Raymond Wood
Humpty Appeal- 13/6/14
"According to Mark Doodes, the planning officer, if you wish to speak at the hearing you need to be there on the first morning to register"
Why?. When most people are at work. How convenient!.
Mark Lunnon
ED(GW) I believe you can write in with your views on the appeal. Not sure of the deadline though. You can also write in to register to speak. Contact Alison.Bell@pins.gsi.gov.uk (the planning inspectorate)
Thames Valley Police alert - 13/6/14
With summer approaching, all farmers and land owners are advised to remain vigilant to the possibility of unlicensed musical events (raves) being organised on their land.
Thames Valley Police is asking members of the public to be alert to any possible rave-related activity.
This could include:
- the removal of locks from secured access points
- vehicles, particularly panel vans or larger, driving off-road
- groups of vehicles congregating in rural areas
- convoys of vehicles
- loud music from remote woodland
“If you spot anyone suspicious who may be conducting early reconnaissance on rural land or even starting to set up an event, please report it on the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number, 101, as soon as possible.”
C/Insp Jim Weems said: “Thames Valley Police will take a robust line with illegal rave activity. Anyone considering holding or attending this type of event should reconsider their intentions carefully.
“We urge owners of land or buildings to take steps to prevent raves taking place there.”
There is a process for the legitimate organisers of events to apply for a Public Entertainment Licence to hold musical parties both indoors and outdoors. The granting of this licence, through an application to the local council, follows consultation with the local police and fire service. The licensing process ensures that the impact to the local community is taken into account with conditions being imposed if required. It also ensures the safety of those attending the event.
By receiving early warnings, Thames Valley Police has a much better chance of disrupting the rave and dispersing those responsible for its organisation.
Information about securing land boundaries can be found on the Thames Valley Police website.
If you have any information in relation to unlicensed musical events, please contact the police via the 101 number
If you don't want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
Honest Faringdonian - 13/6/14
Thank you to the kind and honest person who picked up my doorkeys (presumably I'd dropped them right outside my house) and put them somewhere for me to find on my return (rather than letting themselves in!). Restores your faith in human nature.
Name supplied
Planning Appeal Humpty Hill - 13/6/14
The appeal starts on 1st July, 10am, Sudbury House
According to Mark Doodes, the planning officer, if you wish to speak at the hearing you need to be there on the first morning to register. The planning inspector will give a rough idea when the public speaking slot will be scheduled, but this will be subject to change depending on progress made.
He/she will give an indication of the timetable for the 7 days on day one.
ED(GW)
Damaged Poppy fields - 13/6/14
I have visited the poppies many times and taken lots of photos (as anyone who knows me will testify... sorry about that, they'll be over soon I promise!) It is really depressing to see how some inconsiderate people have chosen to beat tracks and open spaces right through them destroying both poppies and the crops surrounding them. It's no great wonder that the farmers don't want to allow this to happen more often, the poppies are a joy to behold for us but for them the oats crop is an essential part of their livelihood.
The sight of that field has bought people in to Faringdon from all over the Vale. What a shame that the inconsiderate actions of a few, once again spoil things for the rest of us!
Anna
Blood Doning, Corn Exchange Tuesday 1st July - 13/6/14
More donors wanted . See http://www.blood.co.uk/index.aspx
FARINGDON TENNIS CLUB - NEW COURTS - 13/6/14
If you happen to be up at Folly Sports Park (cricket, rugby, sk8 dog walking etc) then you'll see that we're now making good progress on the new tennis courts. Delays were mostly due to the wettest Jan/Feb on record, making groundworks impossible. There's 300 tonnes of stone going in per day at the moment. Courts should be finished 3rd week of July; then curing for three weeks, then line painting. Could be playing tennis on the new courts by mid-August. Progress photos here: www.facebook.com/tennis4all . And if you want more info about the club & joining etc , then just google "faringdon tennis" .
Sjoerd
Steel Magnolias - 13/6/14
We had a great first night with a lovely audience who laughed and cried and enjoyed it all.
Tickets are still available for tomorrow and Saturday's performances. Call into The Nut Tree, Cornmarket, Faringdon for tickets, buy online at www.faringdondramatic.org.uk or buy them on the door.
***Spoiler Alert*** - Bring tissues!
Fiona Merrick
Faringdon Dramatic Society
'Live at the Tithe 2'. Saturday June 14th - 13/6/14
Great Coxwell Tithe Barn, from 11.30am
Following on from the success of last year’s event, this year’s Live at the Tithe offers lots of activities for all ages including: a wide range of art and craft activities in the art marquee; magic shows, storytelling; drumming workshops in the entertainment marquee; plus a whole day of music performed by members of 7 local folk clubs. There will also be dancing and singing in the Great Barn and stalls selling produce and craft items. Food will be available all day supplied by Outside Inn caterers and there will also be a fully stocked bar. Entry to the main event is free, with tickets available for the special evening concert, 7.45pm in the Tithe Barn, featuring Jez Lowe & Megson, £15 from Derrick Beer: tel. 01793 762070 or on the door.
http://www.liveatthetithe.co.uk/Home.html
French Twinners visit Faringdon - 13/6/14
Twinning continues to be very active with 28 visitors from our twin town of Le Mele in Normandy spending the weekend of 8-11th May in Faringdon. Some have been here many times before and know their way around town like locals, but there were a number of newcomers too. There was a spread of ages including 2 families with 5 children between them.
On Friday the group, along with 10 hosts, travelled to Henley’s Rowing Museum for a fascinating tour, followed by a delightful boat trip on the Thames. Saturday afternoon was intended to be a Garden Party, but strong winds and rain wrecked the gazebos and forced everyone indoors. Spirits were not dampened at all however! The evening culminated in singing of French and English songs, with a repertoire ranging from the Beatles to Edith Piaf!
Coming up soon are the Youth trips in July. Local children aged 12-16 are welcome to go to France with the group for an amazing time – contact Carolyn Murphy on 01367 240698 for details.
We have some wonderful friends across the Channel. Do come and join us on the annual visit to le Mele from 30th October to 2nd November, families especially welcome. Enquires to David Williamson on 01367 240033.
Poppy fields- stay on the edge - 12/6/14
The poppy fields around the Folly are so beautiful- the poppies have appeared because the farmer ploughed and planted oats last Autumn.
The farmer has asked that people don't walk among the poppies so that the crop is not damaged
Ed(GW)
Afternoon tea and crafting 21 June - 12/6/14
Come and join us for a delightful afternoon tea and fun crafting on the theme of 'An English Country Garden'. 21st June 2014, Catholic Church Hall, Faringdon. £20 all materials and afternoon tea included. To book follow the link http://becksieandlotty.bigcartel.com/product/crafternoon-tea-21st-june-2014
A417 Bridge Closure- Open meeting to be arranged - 11/6/14
Faringdon Town Council have agreed to hold an open meeting about the Challow bridge closure for 4 months in the Autumn/Winter.
Date, time etc to be arranged.
Currently 585 supporters for the petition
Sign it on:
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
To remember those who lost their lives in WW1 - 11/6/14
http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/remembrance/ww1-centenary/lights-out
'The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime'
Sir Edward Grey, Foreign Secretary, uttered these words on the eve of Britain officially entered the First World War. Exactly 100 years later we are inviting millions of individuals, households and companies to join together in a national moment of reflection.We're encouraging everyone in the UK to turn off their lights between 10pm and 11pm on 4 August 2014 – leaving only a single light or candle for this symbolic act of reflection and hope.
On that night we will remember more than a million Commonwealth Service personnel who lost their lives in the First World War.
We hope to light one million candles across the UK to remember each and every one of those Service men and women who gave their lives in the war to end all wars. Please join together with us to create a unique national moment for the United Kingdom and The Royal British Legion.
A limited edition Centenary candle will be available from M&S stores from 4 July 2014 for £4, with all profit going to The Royal British Legion.
Adult Drama Classes - 11/6/14
If you have some acting experience and are looking to brush up your skills then this is the course for you. Or maybe you are interested in the drama process and would like to explore different ways to approach drama?
Starting from the level the group are at we will go on a journey of discovery, travelling at our own pace and going where the mood takes us. We’ll explore performance, acting and improvisation in a relaxed and supportive environment. I want people to feel safe and just a little bit challenged
With many years experience and a wide range of material and techniques to offer you, this class will get you buzzing.”
Come and find out if this is for you.
Dates: Four Mondays, June 23rd – July 14th
Place: The Pump House Project, Swan Lane
Time: 8.15pm – 9.30pm
Cost: £8.50 per session or £30 for all 4
Suitable for: people who are interested in acting and the drama process or anyone who just wants to have a go.
Please contact Hilary on 01993 773390 or bespoke training@yahoo.co.uk for more information or to book a place.
Neighbourhood update- 11/6/14
June update for Faringdon on http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/yournh/yournh-tvp-pol-area/yournh-tvp-pol-area-soxon-vowh/pub-pg-nh-upds-N378?id=283445
Rural Crime, theft from vehicles, anti social behaviour- Town Centre,
and Have your say meetings in the area.
Thames Valley Police
Lost dog - 10/6/14
Someone was looking for their lost "sausage dog" this evening about 20:30 and I hadn't seen it at the time but about 21:45, I saw one next to the tennis courts on Southampton St South. By the time I got over to where he was, he'd run off. Hope he turns up soon for you though.
Grant Womack
Help! Are there people out there who love doing jigsaw puzzles? - 10/6/14
I have the task of checking the puzzles for my charity shop - and the only way to do this is to do the puzzles. The boxes are piling up as I can't get through them fast enough. If you have time on your hands and can do a 1000 piece puzzle without batting an eyelid, and would like to help, please ring me on 01367 241805
Il# look forward to hearing from you!
Mary Beck
Daddy Cool?- 10/6/14
"Messy Dads" is a FREE drop-in session for dads, grandads or male carers and their age 0-7 children. We have lots of games and toys to play with, plus plenty of bacon sandwiches, toast, tea, coffee and juice to keep your energy levels up.
Come along and meet other Dads and give Mum some time off!
Our next session is from 10-11.30am on Saturday 14th June @ the Baptist Church building on Bromsgrove, Faringdon. Contact Stephen at the church office on 01367 243455 or by email stephen@faringdon-baptist.org for more details.
(Messy Dads is part of Faringdon Messy Church -faringdonmessychurch@gmail.com)
Stephen Martin
Faringdon Baptist Church
Update on the A417 story following the Traffic Advisory Meeting on Friday - 9/6/14
I raised the issue of the closure of the A417 for four months at the Faringdon Traffic Advisory Meeting on Friday.
Cllr Heathcoat and Network Rail tried to say that 'nothing is set in stone' and that 'discussions were ongoing' until the formal decision. However, both NR and OCC have put out public statements confirming the closure (OCC's was read out like an edict from City Hall at the meeting).
The details of the road closure process are on the OCC website which includes the guidance: 'It is in the public interest that we must process your application before it can be granted.'
No formal analysis of the alternative options (eg. second bridge) for Challow was presented at the meeting. Network Rail gave a series of platitudes about how Challow bridge is 'on a tricky bend'.
Therefore, without any consultation having taken place nor any evidence presented on the alternatives, the decision to close the A417 looks increasingly flawed. We have seen the A338 decision reversed, and another flawed OCC consultation in Bicester has just been sent for review. OCC can be made to change its mind!
Support reversing the closure of the A417 by signing the petition here: http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
A motion on a public meeting to discuss this issue will be discussed by Faringdon Town Council on Wednesday.
Alex Meredith
Re: Portwell Seating- Artist in Residence - 9/6/14
My wife, kids and I were in town on Saturday supporting our very lovely butchers and grabbing a coffee but whilst there stopped to admire the great work Tim is doing with the seating. It amazes me how skilled he is at getting the lettering just right and dread to think what would happen if he slipped or something. If you do get a chance go and have a look. I know that if the lettering is this good the diver will be amazing and a great new feature for a great town.
Rob Perkins.
Beautiful Poppies - 8/6/14
I just wanted to extend a huge vote of thanks to the Saunders for allowing such a beautiful display of poppies to grow on their farmland at Folly Hill this year. It really is a lovely sight, and has bought people in to Faringdon from all around the Vale.
Much appreciated by me and many others, thank you!
Anna
Poppies on Folly Hill- 8/6/14
The poppies have been looking spectacular for over a week. They're starting to fade a bit now but still worth a look if you haven't been up there yet. Beautiful!! We are so lucky to have this on our doorstep.
Name supplied
Volunteers carry out more work upon footpath link to town centre - 7/6/14
Seven Members of the Ramblers Association Vale of White Horse footpath clearance group, were in Faringdon on Friday June 6th clearing another section of the path which runs between the Business Centre and the tennis courts This was the second time that volunteers from across the Vale of White Horse had worked on this very well used footpath. The group intends to return on future dates to complete clearance of the path.
Local businessman, Raoul van Eijndhoven who owns Quidne IT Solutions and operates from the Faringdon Business Centre adjacent to this footpath, generously provided free coffee and cakes to keep us going!
Marcus Lapthorn
Job advert - 7/6/14
I was just looking through your jobs section ....I see slavery is back in fashion around here then, had to smile to myself about what one person is expected to do....I say 'Dream on'
Name supplied
Marlborough St Wall repair- finished - 6/6/14
Given there was to be no parking along this stretch for 5 days, I assumed that a thorough job was to be done, so I observed with some interest.
I was told they were just going to repair the worst bits and clear weeds (I assume they were told only below the railings as they have left est 1m of weeds near the bus stop)
Workmen never arrived before 10.30; on one day they worked until 3.30pm, other days they had left by lunchtime or early afternoon
2 men were there Mon and Tue, no one Wed(raining), and 1 on Thurs and Fri.
So I would say roughly 18 man hours work over 5 days.
One workmen said they kept being called off the job- don't know who by.
I wonder if Oxfordshire CC has paid for 2 men for 5 days for this!
Local Yokel
I must get a life!
Go Active in Faringdon - 6/6/14
Tai Chi for Beginners
Mondays 6.15-7.15pm, Chilton Village Hall, £6
Tuesdays 7-8pm, King Alfred’s School, Wantage, £7
Wednesdays 7-8pm, Faringdon Infant School, £7
Thursdays 7-8pm, Radley Primary School, £7
Contact Tony 01235 813857 tony.jones78@btinternet.com or visit website
New Beginners Jog Group
10 week course in Faringdon starting Saturday 21 June, 9.30am
Part of the Far Runners Group who have regular jogs every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.
For more information contact Linda woodwardj@btopenworld.com or visit the Facebook page
Has anyone seen our cat? - 6/6/14
She is an almost 8 year old blue British shorthair - beautiful thick grey coat with a cream tip to her tail and lovely amber eyes - her name is Biba and she has been missing since Monday evening when she was last seen going under the fence into Ferendune's garden. A search of that garden produced no sign of her. She is a very timid cat. We are missing her dreadfully as is her twin sister. If you have seen her I should be so grateful if you could call me on 07747 745792 or e-mail me at lis@coxwellstreet.co.uk . Here's hoping - Lis
Talktalk OK now - 6/6/14
We're with talktalk ( in other words vodafone) which was giving us all kinds of grief. But as of earlier this week, the signal strength for the phone shot up and now consistently shows the full four bars, and the data network indicator hovers between H and H+ ( see http://community.giffgaff.com/t5/Blog/G-H-E-3G-and-LTE-Making-sense-of-cell-network-alphabet-soup/ba-p/10735263 ) .
So - no complaints from me any more!
Sjoerd
Marlborough Street- 6/6/14
I think you will find that repairs to the wall have been done. There were no signs to close the road, just that works were to take place. Cones are still in place 5/5/14 to
stop parking along the wall.They need to leave a space for the repairs to become stable before getting knocked by car doors!
Name supplied
Bridge closure on BBC TV- 6/6/14
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b045g5j0/bbc-oxford-news-05062014
Starts at 4 mins 50 secs.
Have you signed the petition yet? 336 at 09.36 today
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Bridge closure - 6/6/14
Yes closing the A417 for bridge improvement for 4 months does that mean the same level as the road works top of marlbough street plenty of signage and cones but no sign of work all week!!!
J Hadenough
Swindon:Faringdon Bus timetable changes - 5/6/14
Stagecoach West are introducing a revised timetable for the 66 route between Oxford & Faringdon as from Monday 23 June. Peak hour frequencies will be increased from two buses an hour to three. Full timetables can be found for Swindon at: http://www.stagecoachbus.com/uploads/66section1.pdf and for Oxford http://www.stagecoachbus.com/uploads/66section2.pdf
Marcus Lapthorn
Mobile phone coverage.- 5/6/14
Eddy, Don't bother with Orange(EE) cover is very poor. Both my wife,myself and my neighbour are with Orange (now EE) and we cannot get a signal inside more than a few feet from the front windows. Funnily enough, my work mobile is with Vodaphone and I have not had any trouble with the signal.
Regards Mark
Mobile phone coverage.- 5/6/14
Finally managed to ditch Vodafone and get out of my contract six months early with no pnealties to pay. So, who has the most reliable mobile phone service covering Faringdon and the Vale area?
I am told Three and T Mobile are pretty good. Any ideas please.
Colin Eddy
Far Runners (Faringdon's jogging/running group) - 5/6/14
I will be starting a new 12 week beginners jogging course on 21st June which is totally FREE.
The group will meet each Saturday morning (9.30am) at the Leisure Centre car park.
As it's beginners only, there will be no pressure and definitely NO sprinting!!
The sessions will compliment our thriving and very sociable running group here in Faringdon which includes 5k joggers to marathon runners.
Please get in touch via Facebook - Far Runners or email me on: woodwardj@btopenworld.com
Linda
Qualified Leader in Running Fitness
(Run England/England Athletics)
Post Office - 4/6/14
I actually feel sorry for the staff in the post office. They appear to have no room to work comfortably, squashed at the back of a newsagents, it's dark and miserable and far too small for the size of the town. What a pity the old proper post office building couldn't be reopened. Failing that, how about moving it to Budgens where they could at least be given a spot with a bit of daylight and room to move, and then more people might use our town centre supermarket.
Name Supplied
ED(GW) In Budgens- Great idea- but I guess McColls owns the PO
Portwell Seating- Artist in Residence - 4/6/14
The nationally acclaimed sculptor Tim Shutter has now started work on the Portwell Seating! He'll be in Faringdon working onsite until next Thursday the 12th June, working on the lettering ( "of Silliness. Mistrust" on the back - and "A Man who never has the occasional Flash" on the front ) . Other commitments then take him away from the diver and Faringdon. During July he'll be working on the diver - but most of this will be in his studio in London. Installation and stonework ( including fixing of cracks) will then take place during August .
DO pop along to the Portwell to say hello! The intention is that his onsite sculpting is completely open to public viewing .
Sjoerd
A417 Closure petition - 4/6/14
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
228 signatures so far
Have you signed it yet?
More information about this and The A338 bridge refurbishment on http://www.wantageandgrove.org/rail_bridges.php
Super fun singing- Ferndale House Community choir - 4/6/14
We met for the first time last evening, with Louise Woodgate leading us. It was so good- great songs, a relaxed and fun evening.
More people are wanted Men and women. Come and give it a try Tuesday 10th.
7 – 8.30 pm in the School Hall at Ferndale House Preparatory School, 5 - 7 Bromsgrove, Faringdon SN7 7JF
Entry by the front gate in the evening.
£2.50 per session – wine and nibbles included.
Louise is a well know local soloist and has 25 years teaching experience with both adults and children and currently teaches children at Burford School, Abingdon Preparatory School and adults from her studio in Highworth. Louise will be introducing a wide repertoire ranging from musical theatre, classical, pop, folk, through to jazz and the main aim is to promote the enjoyment of singing.
For further information call 01367 240618
Post Office
The post office in faringdon should be moved where it can be seen to OPEN on time. It is rarely open at 9am staff arrive at the shop at 8.50 and expect to open on time.
There is no privacy and staff are not very helpful.
The post office in Carterton is open at 8.30 placed in Big store and Many faringdon people use that post office.
I have written many times to post office but nothing done still opens when they feel like it.
Name supplied
Emergency Road Closures - 4/6/14
I very much agree with Thomas Tankerengine who considers that the emergency services should tell us what plans they have to safeguard the town during the A417 and A420 closures.
Travel times even on blue lights from two important ambulance standby points (i.e. Didcot and Wantage) will be considerably increased by the proposed A417 closure. Ambulance travel times to the nearest A&E hospital (Great Western) will also be impaired by the A420 closure. In any emergency situations, time is of paramount importance to seriously ill or injured people. Any delay can cost lives. Let's hope that the emergency service's contigency plans are robust.
I'm sure that the First Responders will do their utmost to help as best they can but they are not a substitute for professional ambulances, neither can they provide 24 hour cover to the town.
Name Supplied
Petition for improvement - 3/6/14
If you do create a petition for road & rail improvements I will gladly sign it.
I don't think anyone here has said they don't want the infrastructure improved, they are just frustrated at the manner it which it's being done.
Thomas Tankengine
Bridge replacement- 3/6/14
Yes we want improved railway and roads, and yes there needs to be some closures to achieve these, but 4 months is a very long time. What is very unclear is if Network Rail and Oxfordshire County Council have done everything possible to minimise the closure.
It would be nice to know :
- the reasons a temporary bridge has been rejected- may be other than money
- when and for how long the 6500 car count was done
- whether the bridge replacement will be worked on night and day- and 4 months closure is the very best possible that can be achieved
- what analysis was done to arrive at this being the best time of year (short daylight hours)
- if there has been a consultation that somehow has not reached Faringdon?
We know that Oxford CC and our County Councillor knew it was to happen. My guess is that Faringdon Town Council/Chamber of Commerce were consulted. Maybe our VWHDC councillors knew about it before the press article. OCC website makes no mention of it.
Not good enough
Local Yokel
Bridge Replacement - 3/6/14
A few people are being very misleading when they write comments claiming that "Networkrail can do whatever they want" .. This is Totally untrue .. These projects take considerable amounts of Planning , wich takes in most cases several years .. Permision is only granted to carry on with the work after consultations with councils , Highway agency , English Heritage , National Trust , Secretary of State for Transport , Passenger user groups , Environment Agency , etc , etc ,, to name just a few ..
Name Supplied
Online Petition - 3/6/14
Can anyone tell me where to find the Online Petition for people who actually DO want improvements to the Railway and worn out pothole ridden Roads resurfaced ...
Name Supplied
Public Meeting to be requested - 3/6/14
Thanks to everyone who has signed the petition so far. We nearly have 200 signatures and the stories people are sharing of the hardship this closure will bring are very striking indeed. Please continue to share the petition so we can present as strong a position as possible to OCC on why this decision is wrong.
I have also contacted some press so hope to raise awareness that way this week as well.
Cllr Heathcoat is chairing a Faringdon Traffic Advisory meeting at 9:30 on Friday at the Old Town Hall. The A417 will be discussed and everyone is welcome, but it is a regular committee meeting so other matters are likely to take precedence.
Therefore at the Town Highways Committee this evening I will suggest holding a public meeting specifically on this issue (preferably next week) so we can have a full discussion with Cllr Heathcoat (and any OCC officers) on their decision. I'll post the outcome of this evening's discussion as soon as possible.
Alex Meredith
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Road closure- police,ambulance - 3/6/14
One thing that probably should be brought up at Friday's meeting is what is being planned for Police & Ambulance cover if the road is shut? as most of the coverage for Faringdon seems to come via the A417. I'm sure the first responders will do their best, but covering all eventualities for 4 months doesn't seem possible.
Thomas Tankengine
Carers Week 9-15th June
Leaflets and information at Faringdon library for Carers Week
We offer information and support to family and friend carers.- Any adult supporting another adult
As part of carers week. Coffee morning Thursday 5th June, from 10am- 12 noon.
At the Faringdon Medical Centre, Volunteer Way
All proceeds to Helen and Douglas House hospice care
Contact Claire 242388
A417 road Closure/Petition - 3/6/14
143 supporters 3/6/14 08.44
Have you signed it yet?
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
A417 road Closure/Petition - 3/6/14
Can I suggest that people get in touch with Radio Oxford to get more publicity for this. They were quite effective in bringing the A388 road closure to everyone's attention and an alternative bridge is being put in place while the work is being done.
Name supplied
ED(GW) Who will do it?
Be Thankful - 2/6/14
Be thankful that the 420 and the 417 are closing this year - can you imagine the impact with all of the extra traffic that the new developments around Faringdon will bring in in a year or two; no, funnily enough, neither has OCC of VoWHDC, neither of whom seem to be taking steps to upgrade the infrastructure of the town to cope with the incoming masses (and their cars !!)
Hugh Cookson
Why would we need more free parking? - 2/6/14
Look at most other towns in any part of the UK and you would be hard pushed to find any where there is ANY free parking let alone two hours. And if you need more, it is a low amount of money, less than a pound. Are we really looking at scrapping this so that you can save a tiny amount of money? There was a comment regarding lowering rents and business rates in town,well, VoWH have, in fact, got a scheme in place where we business owners have a subsidy for the first 18 months of trade to help new business's get there feet underneath them.
There does seem to be a consensus of negativity towards town parking.How many of the people who drive and park in town actually need to? We walk to work and actively promote such, we try not to take up any spaces and leave the car at home. Saves us fuel too. I can understand if you have mobility problems, but there does seem to be a lot of people popping to the shops in the cars when they don't really need to.
It really has been a sad couple of weeks watching this escalate over a petty fine that has been given to someone who broke the rules. It doesn't matter by how long, just that you did. No right nor wrong, just a hard fact. You were late and were fined for it.
Can we have some positivity here for a change. We have a great market town, steeped in amazing history with stories that people pass on daily. We have a fantastic selection of shops, and if they don't suit your needs,well, you could always open up what you think would be good for the town. We have good food,excellent amenities and more to come, beautiful people and stunning walks. And free parking for two hours to enjoy this.
Name supplied
Lack of consultation and consideration - 2/6/14
I completely agree with Rob, there are indeed 'far worse things than having to stay around Faringdon.' Believe me, I would dearly love to spend my days pottering around taking my dog for a walk on our lovely country walks and spending money in our delightful town centre. Unfortunately though, life gets in the way somewhat and I have to work to earn money to feed my children and pay the mortgage! My work is in Wantage so I therefore commute up and down the A417 to get there. Whilst I am there, my children attend school in Faringdon.
The road closure is going to make life extremely difficult for me and a great many other working people like me (and those with families, schools and other business in Wantage and beyond). Not only am I going to struggle to get to work, but I am also going to feel somewhat cut off from my own children should there be an emergency.
This is not a minor whinge about potholes, nor am I disputing that money needs to be spent improving our rail network. It is however a moan and whinge (if you wish to call it that) about the lack of consultation and lack of alternative provision for the thousands of people who, like me, will be adversely affected by this closure.
Thank you Alex Meredith for a constructive response to this issue. I shall certainly sign the petition and publicise it. I shall also endeavour to get to the Faringdon Traffic Advisory meeting on Friday!
Right, moaning and whinging over...for now!
Anna
Staying in Faringdon - 2/6/14
I have no problem with staying around Faringdon - my employer on the other hand may not be so understanding...
Thomas Tankengine
Petition 'Keep our roads open' - 2/6/14
As has been commented on already, Oxfordshire CC has agreed to shut the A417 for FOUR months in the run up to Christmas. This has been agreed by the OCC cabinet (which includes Faringdon Cllr Heathcoat) without any consultation with Faringdon Town Council (or apparently anyone else for that matter)
It seems to me this could have a very negative effect on trade in Faringdon, and will compound the misery for residents and commuters after the A420 closure.
I have put together an online petition to try to get the decision reversed (as it has been for A338).
If you support the campaign to keep our roads open please can you sign the petition (it only takes a moment). Also Cllr Heathcoat will be explaining the OCC decision in more detail at the Faringdon Traffic Advisory meeting at the Old Town Hall at 9:30am on Friday if you would like to come and share your views.
http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/oxfordshire-county-council-stop-the-closure-of-the-a417-stand-up-for-oxfordshire-communities-and-keep-our-roads-open
Alex Meredith
Re: 417 closure.- 2/6/14
"If people attempting to get out start getting squashed by large white balloons, we'll know who's behind it... "
Personally I can think of far worse things than having to stay around Faringdon. We have some quality country walks around the area and for the most part the town does gel well. If we had to get stuck somewhere I'm happy to be there. :)
Rob.
Road Closure- 2/6/14
Another interesting thing I have just found out is that Councillor Matthew Barber, Leader of the VWHDC who said it wasn't a viable option for Network Rail to close the bridge on the A338 lives in..... West Hanney, about half a mile from the bridge, but that's just a co-incidence.
The odd thing is he used to live in Faringdon, so he should have an idea of how much closing the A417 would impact the town.
Thomas Tankengine
Re Road closures.- 2/6/14
A417 closure September to December will mean commuters and other road users like myself will be diverted through Goosey and Denchworth.
The A420 will be closed in both directions for seven weeks starting on 21st July. The diversion route will be through Shrivenham and Watchfield. Should be interesing to see all the lorries and tipper trucks on these narrow roads, as they won't go via the A34 as the council would like. At least it's only a few months.
Regards Mark
A420 Closure- 2/6/14
As I understand it the Shrivenham by pass will be closed beginning on July for severn weeks. .HGV Goods vehicles over 7.5 tonsthat use the A420 as a route to M4 or A34 Botley are to be diverted from some way off, at the Botley and M4 J 15 and stopped if they try to get through Shrivenham.
Monica Graham
417 closure - 2/6/14
I've no issue with them upgrading the line - far better to fix what is there than spend billions on HS2, but does it really take 3 months to replace one bridge? - If Brunel had carried on at this pace he'd still be building the line now. The frustrating part is that this just seems to have been signed off with no real consultation or investigation into the impact. The potential detours will either be down roads that are already too busy now, or through the villages & anyone who has had to do that when the A417 has been closed knows that not really an option even in the summer, let alone Autumn/Winter as lorries using sat-nav get stuck in tiny roads.
The real cause is that Network Rail seem to want to do this with as little cost or impact to their revenues, but are happy for this to happen to everyone else.
With this & the A420 being closed there does seem a concerted effort by Oxfordshire County Council to isolate Faringdon - if people attempting to get out start getting squashed by large white balloons, we'll know who's behind it...
Thomas Tankengine
The Folly from above- 2/6/14
Just found, a super video of the Folly Tower and woodland, photographed with a camera on a remote controlled helicopter( Hexacopter and a Quad). See the link on the Follyfacebook page or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLZuRQR5HL0. Looks as if it was taken earlier this year.
Photographed by www.skyeyecam.co.uk. We're hoping to have something similar done while the poppies are in bloom
If you 'like' the Folly facebook page, you'll be kept in touch with events, news, new photos.
Folly Friend
A420 closed - 2/6/14
I was interested in the comment on the A420 being shut but there are no indications as to where and when (part from summer) in the minutes. Does anyone know this information as this is of course a major route and will have significant impact on residents of Faringdon.
Name Supplied
ED(GW) The Shrivenham bypass is closed
Ferndale House Community Choir Tuesday 3rd and 10th June - 2/6/14
We will be beginning a weekly programme of choir rehearsals and performances in September but perhaps you’d like to join us for our two Summer Term warm up sessions to meet Ferndale’s new Choir Mistress Louise Woodgate
7 – 8.30 pm in the School Hall at Ferndale House Preparatory School, 5 - 7 Bromsgrove, Faringdon SN7 7JF
Entry by the front gate in the evening.
£2.50 per session – wine and nibbles included.
Louise is a well know local soloist and has 25 years teaching experience with both adults and children and currently teaches children at Burford School, Abingdon Preparatory School and adults from her studio in Highworth. Louise will be introducing a wide repertoire ranging from musical theatre, classical, pop, folk, through to jazz and the main aim is to promote the enjoyment of singing.
For further information call 01367 240618
Parking - 1/6/14
Just a swift note to thank Ed for the information regarding the Faringdon Residents / Commerce quarterly meetings regarding the state of parking / traffic ; I will do some more research and may even join and put my two pennorth in - I'm quite loud and can be somewhat disruptive, but hey if that's what it takes to get the stupid rules overturned, so be it - be prepared !!! ;0))
Thanks again to all of the positive responses - as for the 'my watch is better than your's' malarkey, I thought it was only Americans who didn't get irony ; obviously wrong again then !!
Please don't forget this though people, I am only the vocal MINORITY, how many more are just voting with their feet and not using the facilities in Faringdon because of the idiotic parking diktats ?
Hugh Cookson
A417 closure - 1/6/14
Thought I'd look at the Traffic Advisory minutes to see information and discussion about the closure of the A417 at Challow. It's not mentioned in the March minutes, and the December ones are missing. Was it discussed I wonder?
There is comment about the A420 closure, where OCC say 'Good communication was felt to be of paramount importance'
I wonder why the A417 was not discussed, surely at this time OCC knew what Network rail plans were.
I've heard it said that building a temporary bridge would cost £30k, and for e6500 journeys it is not deemed necessary (by Network rail presumably)
Local Yokel
ED(GW) Traffic Advisory minutes can be found on this site
Vintage Cream Tea Party with live music at The Pump House Project. Sunday 22nd June' -1/6/14
Swan Lane ,Faringdon, SN7 7HL
www.thepumphouseproject.co.uk Charity no 1151905
The Pump House Project is delighted to bring you a Vintage Afternoon of entertainment.Please check your diaries and see if you can join us on Sunday 22nd June 2014, doors open at 2.00pm until 4.30pm
£6.00 per ticket to include ,homemade cream tea and Big Band entertainment from The Nathan Jones Allstars
Licensed bar and Raffle Please Reserve your Tickets from: Lou on 01367 242142 or info@thepumphouseproject.co.uk
All proceeds of this charity event will be going to improve what we provide to the Faringdon Community at the Pump House Project.
Builders Ede - 1/6/14
Are constructing 18 Apartments and 16 light industrial units, NOT an Aldi which is a rumour still being bandied about, behind the blue hoarding.
Jane Boulton
Broadband in Faringdon. Information from Oxford CC - 1/6/14
The information we have enables us to search on a postcode level as to whether the existing network infrastructure is to be upgraded to enable access to fibre broadband as part of the project. SN7 7JL is showing as within the planned upgrade. The postcode is showing as having telephone lines that are connected directly to the Faringdon exchange rather than to a cabinet in the road. This adds a level of complexity to the work and this work is not planned to begin until 2015. Hence, the information on the website indicates the end date for the project of December 2015 as the only date we definitively know at this stage. On a quarterly basis, the plans are updated to give a six month forward view. By the beginning of 2015 there will be more definitive information for this postcode available.
It is important to note that not all premises within a postcode area will necessarily be able to order superfast speeds (above 24mbps). Premises will be able to access a range of speeds – some will get superfast broadband and others will be able to get anywhere between 2Mbps and 24Mbps. There may be some premises that cannot be reached by the fibre network so alternative technology solutions will be deployed to ensure that all properties within the project area are able to order a minimum of 2Mbps.
The plans for the current scope of coverage may change or be delayed. This is because as the project progresses BT continues to undertake planning and survey work on the ground across the county. This involves going out on site to survey all the underground ducts serving homes and businesses in the planned coverage area. If surveys encounter unforeseen difficulties, plans may be forced to change.
More information about the planned rollout and pertinent information relating to the planning and deployment of the project can be found in our FAQ section, and we will be sharing updates via the newsletter as soon as new information becomes available.
SN7 7HY. (Library, Gloucester Street) This postcode is not within our intervention area as it is showing as already covered by commercial providers. The funding we are using to run the Better Broadband programme is subject to State Aid rules. State Aid rules specify that public funds can only be applied to areas where no credible commercial plans exist. Oxfordshire County Council ran an open market review in 2012 to determine the scope of the programme and in our review a commercial provider indicated they were planning to provide fibre broadband to that post code. We are currently in the process of running another open market review to update our information but currently that postcode is listed as being served by a commercial provider or falls within the plans of a commercial provider.
I hope this provides an update on where the programme is today. Further information is available on our website http://www.betterbroadbandoxforshire.org.uk
When I asked who the commercial provider for Gloucester St was I was told:
Unfortunately we are not able to share the results of the Open Market Review, however there are many sites that enable you to find out which providers offer services to your area, such as BT’s DSL Checker, Sam Knows and Think Broadband. The links to these sites can be found here - http://www.betterbroadbandoxfordshire.org.uk/contact-us.
ED(GW)
Non-emergency patient transport services consultation- 1/6/14
You've been invited to participate in the Non-emergency patient transport services consultation by the consultation manager
You are invited to have a say on our proposals for the non emergency patient transport service in oxfordshire. Please note that you will be asked to sign in to respond to the survey. If you have any difficulties accessing this consultation please email cscsu.talkinghealth@nhs.net
Communications and Engagement Team
https://consult.oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk/consult.ti/system/listConsultations?&sort=ca_opendate&dir=desc
Oxford Clinical Commissioning Group
