faringdon-online community web site home	talking points
	december 2009

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Employment land in Faringdon - 31/12/09 Please read the Vale's draft core strategy and the FTC response. You will find that the suggested development to the South of Park Road includes an element of employment land.Probably at the existing Rogers Concrete site. That said, the same draft changes the use of the land next to the Willes Close triangle from employment to housing. The net result is a reduction of potential employment land that we must fight to reverse. It is the policy of FTC that any increase in housing must be matched with an increase in employment opportunity. The objective should be that anybody living in Faringdon should have the opportunity to work in Faringdon. The Vale is strangely reluctant to accept this simple proposition. The land available at Wicklesham Quarry would go a long way towards meeting the employment objectives of the Town. Again the Vale planners are very reluctant to include it in their planning. Pressure from our local organisations working together changed the last District plan. We need to be doing the same with this one. Alan Hickmore FTC Chair of Planning ED(GW) It would be good to hear from Faringdon's VWHDC Councillors- they have access to the planners in VWHDC - maybe they can throw light/suggest ways to make sure our needs are properly considered for the Vales's Core Strategy. Alan- have you any suggestions what the local people can do?

HEALTHY debate in 2010 - 31/12/09 Recent debate in Talking Points about town planning has been most encouraging. After all, we care about our town and everyone's opinion counts. Let's have more of it. Remember, there are NO stupid opinions; only stupid people who won't listen to someone else's view. My personal summary of the debate we have seen so far: * Tom Allen-Stevens - I wish more people would think as laterally. This is what Faringdon needs right now; big ideas to lift us out of mediocrity. We should support the 4&20 Business Park. It is in the right place, both for access and to push the envelope in terms of the town's expansion. * Various people supporting jobs for Faringdon - absolutely! * Tesco - don't knock it, a Park Road supermarket could lift the area if done properly; AND act as a bridge between the town's historic centre and 4&20. * Turning the historic centre into housing - what a waste of an asset that would be. Let's collectively think of how we can turn it into the commercial nugget it deserves to be ? * The VWHDC - we'd better make the town great without the district council's help. We won't get what we need or want if we leave it up to the Vale. * Empowering the local council - Local councillors care much more about Faringdon; support them or vote them out. Whichever, make yourself heard. * Support local - Support local people who TRY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Try the excellent teas at Wicklesham Farm. Visit the Portwell (both bits). Try the White Horse Bookshop. We have good butchers, too. Vote with your feet - you do not have to accept rubbish. Maybe, just maybe, we can get the town centre to grow organically. So, if you care, keep the debate going. Mark Harrison

What should we ask/say to Tesco?? - 31/12/09 They say it would be a food store - but I think that means with upto 20% non food- what do they mean? Chemist/Pharmacy? News? dry cleaning? clothes? electrical goods? How can Faringdon retailers influence this Car parking - more than 2 hours is needed if people are to be encouraged to walk into the town for other shopping and services eg hair salons, pub lunch, coffee shops The walk into town - Quickest way? Needs to be as pleasant as poss- what is planned There must be more questions- any thoughts? Gene Webb The Folly indicates that the consultation is 12th 2.30- 8pm, 13th 1000 to 5pm

Business space - 31/12/09 The comment that "VWHDC believes it has enough land earmarked for business - but it's not in Faringdon", has a horrible ring of truth. The development site at the end of Park Road seemed to be a good idea but has stalled? Perhaps Tom Allen-Stevens could provide an update. Rogers Concrete is also a possible development site, currently access is a little limited but this could be improved. One area I do have concerns about, is moving to the other side of the A420. Currently the road structure forms a very convenient boundary stopping expansion on a massive scale. Once (if) permission is granted I would expect to see a growth in ribbon development alongside the road, then infill. Thus effectively in time, all land from Stanford in the Vale to Watchfield would be fair game. Going back to the original theme, we do have existing industrial sites in Park Road. Giving this area a makeover, with a move away from what could be called "warehousing" would really improve the aspect of the approach to Faringdon. Perhaps a few sympathetic office buildings would be in order? Housing and Industry can live side by side, as long as the development of both is planned and sympathetic. Discuss Mike Perks

More space for business needed - 31/12/09 Mike- I absolutely agree- we need more local jobs to keep people in the town to keep it and the retail businesses alive and thriving. However the Park Road industrial area cannot grow as the population increases - it is surrounded by housing. Other places are needed. What was once an ideal place for industry is now the centre of town and more suited to housing. As the planners include more housing into the plans for Faringdon, so should more space for local business be included. For some reason they don't appear to want to do this. I've heard it said that VWHDC believes it has enough land earmarked for business - but it's not in Faringdon! How about more business the other side of Park Road nearer the A420? or Wicklesham quarry, or Rogers concrete area. Name Supplied

Re Christmas Lights and the Folly Light -30/12/09 The Faringdon lights are quite pretty when they're working but they look so cold and more fitted to "Winterval" than a festive Christmas. All the local towns seem to have the same chill white and blue and naff shapes. Please could we have some warming red and gold? I used to like our old multicoloured bulbs and they seemed to work for longer. I would offer to help with the lighting but I'm not an electrician so would not be let anywhere near them. I love the searchlight to "guide me home from work" and have enjoyed the succession of Christmas lights on the Tower. Frodo's idea of the eye of Sauron would be fun and very striking. We're so lucky to have Faringdon Folly as our landmark rather than the likes of Didcot's cooling towers. Name Supplied

Boxing Day mummers - 30/12/09 I would like to thank Sam and Hiliary for the warming post-mummers drinks in the Corn Exchange from their well-stocked bar, and also Alan for providing the presence to let it happen. Needless to say the Mummers performance was great fun and the afternoon musical entertainment topped off a most enjoyable Boxing Day. I look forward to next year Rachel Kenward

VWHDC strategy for Faringdon? - 30/12/09 Dear NAAS, you make an interesting observation that Park Road was a dead end? Since when? When the station closed? When an island was constructed to ease traffic onto the 420? When Tucker Park was gifted to the town as a charity? 1463? Come on! I appreciate that Park Road is not the most beautiful of Faringdon's aspects and I hope that this will change with future development, but where else would you propose to site "industry" Folly Hill? This town needs people working in it and using the shops. Sure we have very few shops, but that is a self fulfilling prophesy. We need a vibrant economy and that does not mean more housing estates for people who just commute and exist as a grey underworld. If you live in Faringdon, use it, if there are reasons why you shop and work elsewhere, shout about it, stop whinging and let's get this town on the map! MIke Perks

Tesco Consultation. - 30/12/09 The consultation (12th and 13th January 2010) seems devoid of times available for comments and responses. As, believe it or not, there are quite a large number of working people in Faringdon who would like to visit and be "part of the consultation process". Can we be reassured that this "consultation" will be available after normal working hours? Mike Perks

Re The Bell was the best - 30/12/09 As I recollect, I did bring the poor standard of my/our food to the attention of the staff, after finding one! After reporting our concern, the member of staff agreed that the veg was over cooked and the meat was still raw. Having discussed the problem out the back he returned offering us a free dessert, we didnt feel like eating dessert after such a poor main. The waiter dissappeared out the back again for 10 minutes, reappearing was a waitress who was quite addament that all they could offer us was a free dessert. I then asked to speak to management. After 20 minutes, both members of staff returned with the agreement to waive the food bill. I was disgusted with the managements inability to come to us in person when asked to try and resolve this matter and couldnt help but feel sorry for the poor members of staff having to run around back and forth, red faced with embarrassment! So, in short. Our concerns were reported, BUT the management didnt want to do anything about it... Name Supplied

Boxing Day mummers - 30/12/09 many thanks to people who turned out to enjoy the mummers performance on Boxing day morning . It was a pleasure for us to be part of this historic and amusing entertainment. It was also good to see so many people enjoying the facilities of the Corn Exchange, unfortunately these are not used enough over the festive period because of the restrictions placed on it by the Town council. Surely a venue like this should be made available? It is then a double thanks to councillor Hickmore for making himself available on Boxing day. For next year M.a.d.d. has decided to organise the day as a fund raiser ( chariety to be announced) Sam Prince

VWHDC strategy for Faringdon? - 29/12/09 What are the VWHDC planners trying to achieve for Faringdon? What is the point of planning more shopping space (presumably because there will be more residents) and not planning in more space for business. Before the bypass Park Road was a dead end and highly suited as an industrial area. Now it is the main road into town, it is surrounded by housing- and I understand there are to be more houses opposite the new Bloor homes/the garage. Park Road is 'the centre of town' and not the most attractive road into the town. Surely it's time to plan an alternative area for businesses- an area that can grow to provide more local jobs as the town grows. The current business area can then become housing- much more appropriate I can't think why they are being so blinkered. Perhaps someone knows? Name Supplied

Thank you Mark - 29/12/09 I agree there is a real problem obtaining any meaningful detail about two of the potential retail developments. By the time we hold the meetings on 26th January (2010)we will all have had a lot of detail made available to us from Tesco. They are launching a major information offensive with letters to every household and a two day exhibition in the Corn Exchange. From the other two potential developments - nothing. I would really like to know why they are not giving us all the information we need to take a reasoned and balanced view. They have both been invited to make presentations to the FTC planning committee (in private or public) but so far we all remain in the dark It would be tragic if the only project that has, and is, giving us information became the preferred one by default. Perhaps the hour that Vale officers have set aside (6.00pm to 7.00pm on the 26th Jan. in the Corn Exchange) will be enough for them to fill in all the details of their current thinking. Alan Hickmore FTC Chair of Planning

Re Christmas Lights - 29/12/09 Its very reassuring to know that there’s a band of dedicated people and councillors walking the streets at night to check the Christmas lights. Its just a real shame that all this effort cannot be channelled into actually making them work!!. I understand the problems you have had with the scaffolding, indecently that has been up for several months now. But the lights have been working so why cant they just be repaired ??. I would have thought this would be considered to be a serious fault. Faringdon deserves to look its best at Christmas, the town centre traders need it for trade and the people of Faringdon want to be proud of there town!. So come on Councillors do your job and make us all proud of you!. Name Supplied

More space for local jobs needed - 29/12/09 Whether you support a new site for a supermarket on Park Road or not, the impact on Faringdon as a whole MUST be taken into account. Park Road is currently Faringdon’s industrial estate providing jobs and a livelihood for many. As such it’s woefully inadequate and a new site has been identified in Wicklesham Quarry, supported by FTC, Faringdon Chamber of Commerce, Faringdon Residents Association and others. But VWHDC is currently blocking the plans. Redeveloping Park Road could truly breathe new life into Faringdon. Tesco’s may not be the best route, but it is a route that we should all seriously consider. If it does happen we MUST ensure Faringdon reaps the benefits. But first we must consider how to preserve the hundreds of jobs that are at risk, not just at the JDS/Redlake site, but elsewhere on Park Road and in Faringdon in general. These will move to Swindon, as has happened countless times before, unless the Vale planners listen to what Faringdon is asking for. So on the 26th of January our message to VWHDC MUST be clear: jobs and shops go hand-in-hand in Faringdon – don’t consider one without the other. More info on this is now available on Faringdon.org: there’s a survey carried out by Kemp and Kemp – the only one done that looks at Faringdon’s local needs. And a report to VWHDC to justify development of the quarry has now been published – this sets out in detail some of the opportunities and threats the town faces. Tom Allen-Stevens - owner, Wicklesham Quarry

Dear Councillor Hickmore - 29/12/09 First of all, I’d like to thank you for your dedication. The town should be grateful that you and others put so much into the council for no material gain. I am also reluctant to lay the blame for our general planning confusion at your door. The VWHDC is hardly transparent. Nonetheless, my answer to your rhetorical (question?), “I hope this helps”, would be “not a lot”. I have previously asked if there is one place to go for citizens to obtain comprehensive and clear information about proposed developments in Faringdon. Maybe there is a place? It certainly isn’t reached via the URL links we have been given. The VWHDC has a map, and has stated its preference for the grounds of Faringdon House, but there is no detail to speak of. The VWHDC “leaflet” at http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/Images/Faringdon_tcm4-7000.pdf also states that: “A new road for service vehicles from the Lechlade Road may be needed so lorries would not have to travel through the town centre. The existing car park access from Gloucester Street may also need to be improved for car access.” Where are the details of this access? Where, too, is the market research to suggest that people will visit other Faringdon shops if they are 300 metres from the town centre but not if they are 600 metres away? Surely the quality of the shops would be the primary draw card? Finally, given this scant information, the VWHDC is proposing to publish a “draft core strategy” by June 2010. Council officers will “answer questions at the Faringdon Corn Exchange, on 26 January at 6pm to 7pm” (in which year?). Given the apparent lack of detailed thinking, the intervening 4-5 months is a very short time in planning terms, believe me. Mark Harrison

Re The Bell was the best - 29/12/09 thankyou for your opinion, but what a shame that you couldn't have told someone you were not happy with your food and it could have been resolved. as for you being in the bar an inconvenience......how wrong you are. sorry that you may of had a bad experience but nothing can be resolved or rectified if we are not told. the bell

Folly Light - 29/12/09 If Owen feels so strongly about the light on the Folly and its impact on the environment and the light pollution, why oh why does he live here? Perhaps he ought to go back to the land of his birth and whinge there. In the meantime, its not for ever and the stars will still be there. And considering how many clear nights we get; its not the end of the world. Man up! Colin

Folly Light - 28/12/09 It is interesting to see some of the comments that has been said when the folly light has been criticized. I know one poster hoped that even more lights would be set as the Fame? of light in Faringdon spread. Perhaps next year we should try the opposite and allow people at Christmas to see the wonder of the heavens as they used without lights. This would perhaps be even more appropriate in a time when energy costs soar and wasting energy should be at the forefront of our minds. One also hopes that the searchlight will have a duration of the 12 nights and not, as with previous lights, go on for two months and destroy the pleasure for others. Owen Brazell

Re Christmas Lights - 28/12/09 We are lucky to have any lights or Christmas Tree at all. The organisers were hampered by the scaffolding around Portwell House which was in the way of the anchor bolts which transfer the power from the Pump House to the lights. This problem was resolved at absolutely the last minute and the contractor only had half a day to put the strings up and test them instead of the usual 2 days. I think under the circumstances he and everyone else did a sterling job. There is also a rota of people who go round and check and report on the lights each night (I'm on it). Any serious faults are sorted out at the first possible opportunity. Jane Boulton (Chairman of Recreation & Open Spaces Committee) Town Councillor

Re The Bell was the best - 28/12/09 To the person who went to The bell hotel over the festive period. Are you sure you went to the Bell hotel in Faringdon? The few times I have been in there since the new managership, the staff have been far from welcoming, in fact I would go as far to say that me being in THEIR bar was a BIG inconvenience. As for the meals, the last time ate in their the peas were like bullets, the veg was cold, the meat was raw. I havent been back since and I wont be back until the managership is changed!!! Name Supplied

Tesco - 26/12/09 As I wrote in one of my postings, Tesco will be contacting a number of organisations in the Town to explain their plans. This has been known for about two - three weeks and reported on .org. The point of the meeting on the the 26th. is to consider the plans for retail development in Faringdon from the VWHDC which are: a possible extension of Budgens a possible development in the grounds of Faringdon House a possible Tesco site in Park Road. It is true (as I reported on this site) that Tesco plan to make a planning application in the new year. That does not mean that they will get it. The meetings on the 26th are firstly the VWHDC to answer questions on their preferred plans from 6.00pm until 7.00pm, followed by a meeting of FTC planning committee when members of the public can put their views so that these can be considered and passed on to the Vale. I hope this helps Alan Hickmore FTC Chair Planning

THANKYOU Christmas Lights - 26/12/09 I am Sorry if the organisers of the Christmas lights found my comments about the strings of lights in the market place not working, offensive. But you know what they say. The truth hurts, and light strings are still not working!! As for helping I do have an old wooden ladder in my garage your very welcome to borrow. Name Supplied

Owt before Nowt at Christmas - 26/12/09 To misquote Abe Lincoln "You can't please all the people all the time" and this is so obvious from the comments about the Folly Light. Dave has complained that the searchlight is "over the top" but where else should a searchlight be? This year it may not be anything to do with Christmas but until comparatively recently neither did a decorated tree, a red Santa Claus, mince pies or crackers . Maybe next year every town will have a searchlight as the fame of ours spreads. So Dave please feel free to dig tunnels in your garden when you see the light but let most of the rest of us enjoy it without having to feel that we are in some way being disloyal to the spirit of Christmas. Incidentally for anyone unfortunate enough not to have been born "Up North" the expression "Owt before Nowt" simply means it is usually better to have something rather than nothing. Happy New Year ! HGM

Boxing Day Blues? - 26/12/09 No! Today I had the experience of hearing a Hurdy-Gurdy being played, it was also the first time I have ever been able to hear, let alone touch one these amazing ancient instruments and understand it's workings. I am not a musician, being more mechanically bent, so today was rather a revelation. Thanks to "Dorset Dave" (Hurdy-Gurdy, Hammer Dulcimer and Guitar) for his spirited performance in the Corn Exchange, Brilliant! Thanks also to MADD for staging the performance and also to Alan Hickmore who provided the presence required to allow it all to happen. Mike Perks

Tesco - the latest - 24/12/09 A man from Tesco contacted Faringdon Association of Residents on 24th to ask if he could attend their next meeting to talk about Tesco's plans for a supermarket here. He was under the impression that it would be well known that they had arranged a 2 day consultation in the Corn Exchange (12th and 13th January 2010), where the plans for the 15000sqft Tesco along Park Road would be on view and there would be Tesco people there to answer questions, including their planners. In conversation he said it would be: 15000sq ft food store 90% would be food, 10% other goods (it is not known whether that's 90% of turnover, space or range of goods) 137 parking spaces, + 16 parent/toddler and disabled. Plans are about to be submitted and approval hoped for by April. He gave the impression that this consultation has been discussed with the Town Council( possibly at the private part of last weeks meeting). So what is going on? Hpow long has this been known? What is the point of the consultation on 26th, when it appears that Tesco are well advanced in their planning. Will our views influence the Tesco planning aplication? Are other supermarket chains taking an interest in Faringdon? Please - someone who knows- tell us Gene Webb

Boxing Day News - 26/12/09 What a glorious morning for the Mummers Play, I have always enjoyed their performances and the end of year eulogy. This year was no exception, a good audience and an excellent start to the Boxing Day celebrations. There was an added bonus this year, as we were able to repair to the Corn Exchange for some warming mulled wine and a natter after the show, with music to follow. Thanks to Hillary and Sam from MADD for the extended entertainment, Faringdon just gets better every year. Rachel Kenward

Thank You GWH.- 26/12/09 I am aware from personal experience that some parts of The Great Western Hospital, like so much of the NHS, are a disgrace. I am also aware that complaints to such as the local MP are a waste of time and any complaints within the hospital can be very counter productive. But. On the 23rd of December my daughter broke her leg and a large part of Christmas for my wife, my Grand daughter and me was spent in the Kingfisher Ward. The Hospital carpark was not very full and I have the feeling that the Traffic Wardens were not on the prowl. (but I didn't risk testing my theory by incorrect parking.) On Christmas Eve the reception Area was visited by a choir and I was invited to join in the carols and the Cafe was offering a splendid Christmas meal for £5.95 On Christmas Day a Salvation Army band toured the wards and distributed bars of chocolate, even to the visitors. The patients were given a nice little M&S goody bag and the staff were friendly and cheerful. Leaving the ward I became hopelessly lost but one of the staff rescued me by taking me in one of the Bed Lifts. As he said " It is Christmas" So my thanks to the staff generally and Kingfisher Ward in particular and I just hope the Christmas Spirit isn't thrown out with the remains of the Christmas Turkey. Unfortunately we will have about a couple of week to find out. Name Supplied

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! - 24/12/09 and all the best for 2010 from all of us at Faringdon.org (that's her and me, or me and her) Keep those messages coming in the New Year!... Eds GW & HT

I'm with you Mr Brazell!! - 23/12/09 Christmas lights I love,the multi coloured star last year was great. But what on earth has a search light got to do with with Christmas? Perhaps it's a guide for Father Christmas?? It reminds me of a POW camp, I feel I should run and hide when it sweeps overhead and I've had this urge to dig tunnels in the garden. I have great admiration for all who do are Christmas lights each year, but think this is a bit over the top. Dave Saunders

Happy Christmas all. - 23/12/09 Having just finished decorating the tree, ably assisted by a cat who's sole purpose in life is to remove the baubles I had just carefully placed in strategic positions, I thought it was time to thank all the hard working folk at .org for making this site as informative and entertaining as it is. I think it is also in order to thank all the various posters on Talking Points for their contributions over the year. So, a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all of you, even the grumpy ones. Mike Perks ED(GW&HT) Thanks Mike- and yes thanks to the posters - without you it would not be such a lively site.

Love the new Folly Lighthouse - 23/12/09 Love the new Folly Lighthouse and I agree with other posters that its a nice sight to see the beams as you trudge along the A420 on your way home. A suggestion for next year though. Can we just go all the way and make it the "Eye of Mordor" from Lord of the Rings? Randomly casting its gaze over those walking up and down folly hill. Frodo Baggins

Cycling in the Long List 2011-2030- 22/12/09 Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) recently invited suggestions for a "long list" of ideas to be incorporated in its strategic transport plan for 2011-3030. The accompanying document is an attempt by a group of about 100 interested cyclists in Faringdon to coordinate suggestions from a cycling perspective. For further details on the OCC invitation, have a look at the link at the top of Talking Points. If, having read the document, anyone wishes to comment or contribute further, contact details are contained therein. Mark Harrison Ed(GW) The deadline for the consultation is now 1st Jan - so there is still time to add your comments. Please................ The link is at the top of this page

Hurrah for the Lighthouse - 22/12/09 Bah Humbug to all those who seek to spoil the splendour of one of our eagerly awaited annual pleasures - and thank you to those who put in the hard work to make it possible. I so look forward to discovering what Folly festive delights are in store for the people of this wonderful town each Christmas and am never disappointed. I know many Faringdon folk feel the same. I was up on the Folly in the heavy snow last night - the light from the beam made my daily dog walking experience quite magical! Thank you again from a grateful resident!

Faringdon lighthouse - 22/12/09 May I say that I too LOVE the "Faringdon Lighthouse" especially when driving home at night. I know I'm nearly home when I see its beam. I can also see it from my bedroom window and love to watch it. But I also love the night sky which, in my opinion, the lighthouse does not detract from. Two years ago, at the grand old age of 55, I took the Astronomy GCSE (as a then staff member of Faringdon Community College) gaining a B grade. And to help with my viewing of the night sky, I was delighted last week when 3 lamp posts in my cul-de-sac in Faringdon were upgraded to have the less light polluting lamps installed. I don't know whether I have to thank the SEB, who did the replacement. or the council for this. Whoever it was - a big THANK YOU! Jill Dean

Faringdon lighthouse - 22/12/09 Aah, now things make sense. I really failed to understand why anyone would complain about our lovely Folly searchlight but I see that Mr Brazell has sought Faringdon out as one of the best dark sky areas in the world! http://www.webbdeepsky.com/committee/brazell.html Whilst I can understand how frustrating it might be if you want to watch the night sky please understand that a huge amount of Faringdon residents, and those in our surrounding villages, absolutely love it! Huge thanks to Peter White for his efforts... Name Supplied

Faringdon lighthouse - 21/12/09 Absolutely delighted to see the lighthouse return to Faringdon again this year. It's 'light pollution' of the very best kind and it's loved by a great many people. I seem to remember that when the beam first radiatated in 1999 the organisers had to seek all sorts of permissions due to air-traffic etc and I am quite sure they will have done so again. Might I suggest to Owen that he attempts to get into the festive spirit and celebrate the fact that we have volunteers in Faringdon willing to work hard to bring peace and joy to all in the town. Perhaps there's only one thing to add to Mr Brazell...Bah Humbug! Name Supplied

Tesco or not Tesco - 21/12/09 I am not surprised that people are confused about what supermarket is being considered for which location and by whom! One could be forgiven for thinking there is a lot of deliberate obfuscation afoot. There is no one place to go for clear and concise information about the options. And the scary thing is that the “draft core strategy (is) to be published in June 2010” That is just six months away! The VWHDC favours “the land north west of Gloucester Street car park as it has closer links to the town centre” but admits that “a new road for service vehicles from the Lechlade Road may be needed so lorries would not have to travel through the town centre” Just where would this road go, exactly? Cars bound for the supermarket would evidently still travel down Gloucester St. Really? With a little imagination, and a bit of Tesco arm-bending, an extremely pleasant walkway and cycle route could be built along Southampton Street from the Park Road site to Faringdon town centre. Perhaps even a small electric bus could be deployed on the same route. Face it, the only way people are going to visit Faringdon shops is if they offer quality and value, irrespective of whether they are 300 or 600 metres from the supermarket. Otherwise people will just buy what they need from Tesco and be done with it. Mark Harrison

Re Faringdon searchlight - 21/12/09 You might have noticed that the Christmas Light has been switched on on the Top of the Faringdon Folly. The Faringdon Folly Christmas light (aka Search light) will be on from dusk till midnight 7 days a week. The Friends of the Folly have published a NOTAM (Notice To AirMen) with the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) to notify aircraft in the area of the light. So far we have had no complaints from official bodies about the light. Rather the opposite. Last night one of the Friends of Folly was out on for a walk to admire the light and had this story: “Last night about 9.45 I wandered along Park Road to have a good look at the Folly Christmas light. I stood outside JDS taking in the random path of the light and mesmerised by the beam pattern, only to be interrupted by the words, "Good evening sir. Are you alright?" A police car had pulled up with two puzzled policewomen who were wondering if I had frozen to the spot! When I told them why I was there they said that they had just driven from Stanford in the Vale and that the searchlight looked wonderful.” Regards, The Friends of the Folly.

Christmas Lights - 21/12/09 As I said earlier we work very hard raising funds for the christmas lights which are repaired or renewed each year. As you can see yes we have had some problems which are being addressed. So rather than posting comments that can offend how about putting a name underneath your comments and start helping. Have a very merry christmas and enjoy the lights when they are working!! Denise

Oh Dear I'm back again - 21/12/09 Mike Perks is absolutely correct. Faringdon does need a Town Council that is produced by a competitive election. However, it is hardly fare to blaim the present councillors for the lack of elections. They were willing to put their names forward and to be held accountable. There are 14 Honest and hard working councillors. All of whom are working their best to support and help the Town (even if some of you disagree with their policies). At election time we need 15 candidates. Since I and a group of others, were elected during contested and hard fought elections, we have not had another one - for one reason only - there have not been enough candidates.This means that those who have put their names forward are "elected unapposed". Over the years there have been a number of byelections none of which have been contested. To stand is very simple, you just have to get 12 members of the community to nominate you. Then if two candidates stand there is an election. In the last year I have made a number of presentations with the aim of explaining what the Town Council does (and can do),to various organisations including the Chamber of Commerce. I am more than willing to talk to anybody or organisation that would like to know more, and how to contest an election. But remember that being a Town Councillor involves hard work and commitment to the Town and it's people. It is not as easy as putting a blog on Faringdon.org. You need to take responsibility as well. I truly hope (and believe) that the next full election in May 2011 will be contested and the problem that Mike identifies will be overcome. If you want any further information on how to put your name forward for Councillor on Faringdon Town Council please contact the Town Clerk at the Corn Exchange. Alan Hickmore

Dear Jane- 21/12/09 I quote ref The council is considering whether a site for a supermarket should be identfied out of the town centre. There are 2 locations. Land owned by faringdon estate north of the council car park. Or the tescos owned jds site in park road. The only thing I misread was the tescos comment . Be it tescos bugdens or any other retail business it will cause a massive problem for gloucester st . Simon

The Bell was the best - 21/12/09 This year I've had the pleasure to go to three of the town's restaurants for Christmas meal and evening out. My top marks go to The Bell, for the best meal, beautiful real turkey. Warm welcome in the bar and restaurant, excellent service. Brilliant price. Thank you. Name Supplied

Retail consultation- 21/12/09 Last week I asked VWHDC for some factual information about the consultation. This is the reply:- On Tuesday 26 January, VWH officers will be at the Faringdon Corn Exchange from 6pm to 7pm to answer question about the Faringdon retailing issues which are set out in the VWH leaflet which has been distributed with the recent 'What's On in Faringdon' magazine - (distribution starting today). These retailing issues are about whether shopping should be improved, and what the public think about the following ; - extending Budgens supermarket, - identifying a site for a new supermarket out of the town centre - either north west of Gloucester Street car park - or east of Park Road This current consultation is about alterations to the core strategy options (published in January 2009) and, as you have stated, not the final draft core strategy. Planning is principally concerned with land use & that is why the outline above of the retailing issues refers to sites not possible retail operators. However, the council understands that Tesco's has acquired an interest in the land east of Park Road and that Tesco's is currently seeking to promote this as a possible retail site. The continued work on the core strategy will take into account the comments the council receives as a result of its current consultations. This will inform what is set out in the final draft core strategy with regard these retailing issues, as well as with regard to all the other matter on which comments are being sought. Regards, Nick Burroughs VWHDC Planning

Seasons Greetings. - 21/12/09 For almost two months I have seen, and tried to ignore, signs that Christmas was imminent. Thomas The Tank Engine turned up with a reliability that British Rail and Eurostar would envy and our Market Square lights were switched on. Christmas cards started arriving and she who must be obeyed said that despite the fact that we receive no social security benefits I must decorate the house. I still tried to ignore the signs but now I have to accept the inevitable because I now see the light, literally. on the Folly Tower. Once again the past year has allowed us to use this website to participate in some lively and occasionally acrimonious discussions. Contributors have used their own names or pseudonyms or hidden, as in my own case, modestly, under the name supplied banner. It has been made clear that ignorance and illiteracy will be no bar to publication But now I feel able to offer a rather unusual post, for it is one which I am sure will not be criticised. So here goes: Gene and Hilary... Thank you for yet another year of hard graft providing us with an alternative to phoning The Samaritans. Peter White..Thanks for providing a ray of light despite the efforts of this government to keep us in the dark. To all contributors including those who are so stupid that they make the rest of us seem quite rational. HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS 2010 HGM Ed(GW) Thanks HGM

Shopping Survey.- 21/12/09 Just for info: the results given on www.focusonfaringdon.co.uk can be used by anyone. We have not published our own conclusions and have not coloured anyone elses. There were several purposes behind the survey. One of them was to identify what shops or services might be used if shops in town became vacant. Suddenly we have a number of empty shops in Town. May I suggest that anyone considering a new business venture in town might find the poll useful. Name Supplied has also written "The three hundred respondents were self selected. Self selection is the least reliable of any survey method". This might or might not be true - but as it is the basis of our general elections I guess it will pass the test of acceptability. If Name Supplied would like more information regarding the survey we will be happy to provide it. Chamber of Commerce

Re: The Local Development Framework- 21/12/09 The report clearly states that in order 'To strengthen the retail offer of the town and help recatpture the expenditure that leaks to other areas (particularly the edge of Swindon) the council is considering whether a site for a supermarket should be identified out of the centre. There are two opportunities' one of which is identified as 'on land owned by Faringdon House Estate north of the council owned Gloucester Street car park' So with respect we are reading what is actually being written and are rightly concerned Name Supplied

Re Oh dear I'm back again.- 20/12/09 Hear hear Mike Perks...I couldn't agree more! Anna

Shopping Survey- 19/12/09 I have read the shopping questionnaire report and wonder what exactly is/was its purpose? There is no analysis of the results and no conclusion, nor suggestions on how the results should be interpreted. Without in any way wishing to denigrate the Chamber's efforts, I think that the survey is not really very meaningful. The questions are sometimes not thought out with clarity. If, for example you ask a question such as "what shops and services would you like to see in Faringdon?" you will, of course lead respondents to make suggestions, which they may not have done without prompting. Their answers do not indicate that the shops and services would actually be used regularly. The three hundred respondents were self selected. Self selection is the least reliable of any survey method. There there is no guarantee that the sample is representative of the population as a whole. Was there, for instance any indication of the ages of the respondents? If the Chamber want their survey to carry any weight, then they should have very clearly defined goals and know how they want to use their results. Perhaps they could commission a professionally designed survey with a reliable and representative sampling method, and then it would be taken seriously. name supplied

THANKYOU Christmas Lights - 20/12/09 I know its good to get excited about Christmas lights and the thought of extending them to other places In the town would be nice. But hold on a minute, are the organisers of the lights that blind that they cant see that the lights in the town centre spend most of the time broken. This weekend most of the strings were off. I think the reliability of the lights this year is a poor show. Maybe the organisers should spend a little more time looking up!. Before they try to look forward. Name Supplied

All the talk about Tesco's. - 20/12/09 Re: Tesco's have bought the JDS/Redlake site, they are seeking to develop it as a supermarket. They haven't yet put in for planning permission. The VWHDC would like to expand and develop the Budgens supermarket site. How they can do this is anyones guess as there is no space. Faringdon House are offering land for redevelopment for retail purposes. Where in this proposal does it say "supermarket" or "Tesco's". Could people please, please read or listen to what is actually being said rather than interpreting it as what they THINK is being said. Jane Boulton FTC

Faringdon searchlight - 20/12/09 I hope that the searchlight I saw tonight is not going to be the Folly light for Christmas. This is light pollution of the worst sort and will destroy the night sky for miles around. They perhaps ought to know that this form of light beam is also illegal under light trespass laws. Owen Brazell

Shocked re Tesco on Faringdon Estates land - 19/12/09 Shock horror I am really shocked by faringdon estates wanting the the new tescos on there land . Nowt to do with the huge amount of money they will get what a rubbish idear gloucester st will be to small for the traffic numbers artic delivering which is a nightmare for bugdens. Park road too far away from the town centre . I cant see the logic in it myself apart from lining the pockets of others . IMO some of the wealthy locals dont like it that a bigger dog is in the town eg Tescos. For years faringdon has no in my back garden types. Now the real threat is here to stay they all want a piece of action . And for years the landowners have not wanted to have a supermarket in the town. Tescos have bust there bubble with having more money and power and bought the old jds site. I am no tescos fan but I am sure happy some have had there noses put out of joint in the town. This subject is about giving the locals what they want eg a shop that can provide a decent quailty of service with value. We cant all afford to shop in waitrose and sainsburys. I have spoken to many locals and have really only found support for a tescos in faringdon. Regards Simon Cook

Card Cloning in Faringdon - Beware - 19/12/09 Please warn everyone about this story about card cloning happening in faringdon http://www.witneygazette.co.uk/news/4804052.Card_skimmers_target_bank_cashpoints/?ref=mr Two people's bank cards were swallowed by a device on a Lloyds TSB Bank cashpoint in Market Place, Faringdon, between 7am and 9am on Monday and Tuesday mornings. From Oxford Mail, web site. In case you missed it, be aware. Name Supplied

Shopping Survey- 19/12/09 I wonder if the County Council or the Town Council took a look at the shopping survey that Focus on Faringdon undertook last year. Take a look at http://www.focusonfaringdon.co.uk/shopping-questionnaire- report for the analysis. There were some surprising results. Chamber of Commerce

For the attention of Gloucester Street residents - 18/12/09 The council are seriously considering a site for Tesco at the Faringdon House end of the Gloucester Street car park – entrance possibly via Gloucester Street Consider the impact on Gloucester Street, access to the school (pupils to and from the school), impact on residential parking and of heavy goods vehicles accessing the supermarket, and act now!!!!! To read the entire report go to: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/Planning/Planning_policy/DetailPage-6980.asp Executive Committee, 4 December 2009 Report no. 77/09 Report of Head of Planning Services Author: Katie Barrett Telephone: 01235 540339 E-mail: katie.barrett@whitehorsedc.gov.uk Executive portfolio holder: Councillor Mary de Vere Telephone: 01234 203169 E-mail: mary.devere@whitehorsedc.gov.uk Local development framework: towards a core strategy Faringdon town centre 32. The preferred options report proposed that part of Faringdon town centre, including Budgen’s supermarket and the Southampton Street car park, be identified in the core strategy for comprehensive redevelopment and environmental improvement. This would involve retail and other town centre uses including improved car parking. Since then officers have had a number of discussions which show that a) It may be difficult to significantly expand the Budgen’s store given the need to provide additional car parking and the other established land uses around the site b) Tesco has indicated it will submit a planning application east of Park Road on the employment site c) Faringdon House Estate has suggested that land it owns north of Gloucester Street car park could be used for additional retail floor space. A plan of these sites is in Appendix 2 to this report. 33. The advisory group agreed that these should be subject to further consultation along the following lines. • The expansion of the town centre store (currently operated by Budgen’s) is the councils preferred option subject to the satisfactory resolution of car parking and servicing issues, and the impact on the conservation area, listed buildings, other properties and nearby residents being able to be satisfactorily mitigated. Given the historic character of the town centre there are no other sites that could provide a large new retail store in the area defined in the local plan. • To strengthen the retail offer of the town and help recapture the expenditure that leaks to other areas (particularly on the edge of Swindon) the council is considering whether a site for a supermarket should be identified out of the town centre. There are two opportunities - On land owned by Faringdon House Estate north of the council owned Gloucester Street car park - On land owned by Tesco that is currently used by local businesses and protected for employment use in the local plan east of Park Road. The council’s preference is land north of the Gloucester Street car park as it is closer to the town centre and attractive links could be provided that would encourage linked trips to the centre, thus helping to retain its viability. The land at Park Road would involve a longer, less attractive walk to the town centre and would be unlikely to encourage linked visits to the town centre. It could be argued that it would be likely to draw trade away fromthe town centre. Although the site is closer to the new housing areas, most trips to the supermarket will be by car, and the benefits of shorter journeys to the store would be offset by greater harm to the town centre and the loss of an existing well-located employment site. ... and don’t forget to respond to the council’s planned changes for Gloucester Street parking – why don’t we request residents parking permits! Name Supplied

Oh dear I'm back again.- 18/12/09 Nick Burroughs from VWHDC has stated the current position with clarity. Alan Hickmore, FTC Chair of Planning,has stated his take on the situation even if P&H and FTC are not the same? Now it only remains on who we accept as a credible source of accurate information. As often in the past, we are expected to follow the lead? of certain councilors who frankly have been incumbent for far to long. There was a time, (just over twenty years ago from memory) that FTC was run by the Chamber of Commerce, the opposition (Labour) made great claims that change was due, and indeed they prevailed. Since then, the same dead hand has hovered over FTC. We need a proper election in this town to re-engage the people that live here. We need to put enough names on ballot papers that a true election takes place. We need this so that Councillors have a true mandate to put forward the views and aspirations of this Town and those that live and work here. Change can be a realization of this. Please don't get me wrong, there are some honest folk on FTC at the moment, but we need to change the current mindset that the status quo is acceptable, it is not. Mike Perks

Perplexed no- 18/12/09 Tesco were not surprised that the item was held in closed session neither was anybody who had read the agenda. One of the problems about closed sessions is the difference between the District and the Town planning committees. In the case of the District there are a number of planning officers who are very willing to talk to planning applicants in complete privacy both during and before the planning application. This is sensible because it gives the applicant a possible direction that they should take.The chair of the Chamber of Commerce has very recently benefitted from this system. The FTC planning committee does not have the benefit of these officers. We have to investigate and listen to applicants as a committee. At times the sort of information that the Vale officers receive comes our way and helps us with our recomendations. In the case of the Vale this type of information is released at officer level in private. We (the FTC planning commttee) have to hear it in committee and sometimes it needs to be in private as well, for commercial and other reasons. If we failed to go into private session in these circumstances then developers would not continue to talk with us before making applications. That would be very bad for Faringdon. Alan Hickmore FTC Chair of Planning

Puzzled re Consultation -18/12/09 I've had a look at http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news_views/press_releases/article.asp?id=tcm:4-6994&rtn=D and this looks to me as if the consultation is about the Core Strategy - decribed on this page as 'In January the Vale of White Horse District Council published options for development in the Vale up to 2026 setting out where new homes, jobs, shops, roads and community facilties should go. As a result of comments received from the public a number of changes are being proposed and the Council is now asking people to comment further before finalising its draft Core Strategy' For Faringdon the subject on 26th is: possible improvements to shopping in Faringdon resulting from the extension of the existing Budgens supermarket or the identification of a site for a new supermarket. On the http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/Planning/Planning_policy/DetailPage-6980.asp page it says 'Improving shopping in Faringdon- Extend Budgens supermarket in the town centre or Identify a site for a new supermarket. If Faringdon is to have a new supermarket it will have to be out of the town centre. We prefer a site north west of Gloucester Street car park rather than an alternative east of Park Road as it is closer to the town centre. ' There's more detail on this leaflet - we'll all get one with the next Whatson So if this meeting is only about shopping, when will we be consulted about other aspects of the Core strategy? - more homes, jobs and community facilities?. The subjects under discussion in other areas are about homes and roads. I've heard it said that a further 400 houses are to be included in the core strategy. Surely if this is the case then more local work will be needed? Where will that go? Hopefully all will become clear Gene Webb

Singing dog? - 18/12/09 Good to hear the dog enjoyed the night, I'm hoping someone captured the dog singing on video. Well it was a blues night. The HURDY GURDY man is featured in M.A.D.D.s boxing day open mic session. At the corn exchange Sam Prince

Perplexed - 18/12/09 It would seem from Alan Hickmore's explanation that Tesco was invited to attend the open meeting by the planning committee: we assume on behalf of the Town Council. It would seem that Tesco was surprised that the open meeting was then closed? It is disappointing that all those working for the benefit of Faringdon cannot be included in Council's plans and agendas: however strange those plans and agendas might seem to an outsider. Chamber of Commerce

Thank you for the clarification Nick Burrows - 18/12/09 I was under the impression that the core strategy will be considered, but I am apparently wrong. That is a pity as it has been under consideration now for over a year - whilst many other LPAs are already going ahead with their strategy and plans. That said, the retail consultation will be of great interest and significance for Faringdon. It is very important for the future of Faringdon that members of the public attend and give their views as to how retailing will be supported in our Town at these meetings (the VWHDC meeting and then the following meeting of the FTC Planning meeting). There is a danger that those with their own agendas could dominate the discussion. Alan Hickmore FTC Chair of Planning

THANKYOU Christmas Lights - 18/12/09 I would also like to say thankyou to all the lovely comments regarding the towns lights. I have chaired the Retail group for the last few years and we have worked hard with the town council to improve the christmas lights. All Festive faringdon funds, which I organized each year, is done so we can help improve the lights year on year. I would like to extend the lights so they are not confinded just to the town centre, so any ideas or thoughts please get in touch. I would also like to thank June Rennie for all her hard work, also to Rotary without them Festive faringdon wouldn't have been the same. Merry Christmas to all Denise Palmer

RE.item 'Tescos/planning consultation(16.12.09) - 18/12/09 In this item Alan Hickmore refers to consultation by VWHDC officers on 26 January. I would be grateful if you would make the following points of clarification: 1)In the phrase 'The consultation will culminate with an exhibition by officers of VWHDC' the consultation is that being carried out by Tescos. The wording infers that VWHDC's involvement is part of the Tesco consultation. This is not the case. 2)VWHDC officers will be at the Corn Exchange on 26 January but this is for a Question and Answer session (on any points in the VWHDC's leaflet). There may be some material on display but the main purpose is the Q & A session. 3)On the 26 January, the Q&A session will last from 6 to 7 pm, not 6 to 8 pm. 4)This Q&A session has been arranged primarily to discuss retailing in Faringdon. It will not "cover the final draft of the core strategy". The final draft of the core strategy is timetabled for publication in June 2010. Nick Burroughs VWHDC

HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY Noel Mike Barker Helen Gerrard

To Sam Prince - 17/12/09 Many thank for a fantastic last night of music in the corn exchange. Jedd(the dog)

Re Tesco's Planning consultation - 17/12/09. I am pleased that Alan Hickmore (cllr) has replied to the concerns of Faringdon residents with his comprehensive reply. It is heartening that such multinationals as Tesco should have involved FTC (sorry the Planning Committee), in its proposals for it's expansion plans. Comments such as: "Invited to attend the meeting to explain and take advice from us on the consultation process that they will undertake prior to making a planning application early in the new year." Are extremely encouraging, it would seem that the Committee (not FTC) has real standing in the scheme of things. I can well understand that excluding the public is a wise move, not least in the given example of: "There has been a case recently when a developer was talking to us on a completely unrelated topic and mentioned his early plans for a hospital in Faringdon. This caused a great deal of distress and worry for residents" Oh my, a HOSPITAL??? What do they know that we don't? But in reality not having the public in attendance serves a different cause; What you don't know you can't laugh at, that includes the "influence" wielded by FTC (sorry, P&H, my mistake). Oh I am a sad soul! Mike Perks

Our Voices ignored- 17/12/09 I fully expect the Tesco consultation to be as for the Market Square improvements, when all dissenting voices were ignored and lost. We will end up with Tescos to the benefit and convenience of some but not Faringdon. Name Supplied

Re Tescos meeting update - 17/12/09 Apparently it was not the Town Council but the Planning and Highways Committee that excluded the public". Glad about that, I thought they might all have been town councilors, just shows how wrong you can be. Mike Perks

Of Christmas Lights and Tesco's and Testicles and Things - 17/12/09 Well, we all have a dose of Christmas Cheer don't we! I think that A. Doctor may be onto something here, not only do some posters not know their own names, it is amazing how they can even see the festive lights, given the degree of blindness obviously incurred through their diligent handy-work. On parking, it is not often I agree with Steve Leniec, but his summing up of the parking ticket debate is spot on, I heartily concur. One of the reasons Witney has done so well, is that it told Oxfordshire Council where to get off when they tried to browbeat them into abolishing the car. I also thank David Keeble (Cllr)for reminding us that we are all welcome to attend council meetings, unless of course Tesco's turn up. However, I cannot end this rambling response without addressing Lord Thresher. I assume that this pseudonym is due to Threshers being decidedly empty, It could also be that Lord Thresher is of female gender, should be Lady Thresher dear, but I can assure Lord Thresher with all kindness and understanding, that if they ever do drop, there will be no shortage of willing helpers to shove them straight back up again. Happy Christmas One and All! Mike Perks

Tescos /planning consultation - 16/12/09 Thank you Nigel for asking for the facts regarding the Planning & Highways committee meeting on Tuesday. I'll try to explain the situation. Mr. Felix Gummer of Tesco was invited to attend the meeting to explain and take advice from us on the consultation process that they will undertake prior to making a planning application early in the new year. The possibility that this part of the meeting would probably be held in private session was clearly indicated when the agenda was published. There were also a series of emails between the Town Clerk and Mr. Elwell on the matter prior to the meeting. He was fully aware of the probability but chose to make some sort of point about it. The reasons for going into private session were: 1) It was considered to be unfair to the other possible retail developments in the Town if Tesco was able to use this meeting to launch its position in public before the other two were able to do so. 2) No planning application has yet been submitted. It is not unusual for developers to talk to FTC P&H committee before making a formal application. In those circumstances most developers prefer to talk in private and seek our guidance. There has been a case recently when a developer was talking to us on a completely unrelated topic and mentioned his early plans for a hospital in Faringdon. This caused agreat deal of distress and worry for residents - an application has not yet been received. We do not want a repitition of this situation. A large part of our conversation with Tesco concerned their consultation programme. I think I can tell readers (without breaking confidentiality) that this will be extensive following our discussions. It will include a leaflet to every household and a two day exhibition at which they will receive comments from the community. In addition Tesco have asked us for a list of organisations that they should approach to explain their proposals. Included in the list are : The Chamber of Commerce, the Womens Institute, Faringdon Association of Residents, Probus, Rotary and some others. They may not all take up the offer but a request will be made to them. The consultation will culminate with an exhibition by officers of VWHDC in the Corn Exchange from 6.00pm to 8.00pm on 26th January that will cover their final draft of the core strategy within the Local Development Framework. This will include retail development. The Vale are also issuing a leaflet to all households explaining their position on retail development - this will be issued in the December edition of What's On. I hope that the other two possible retail developments will also issue information to the residents. Following the Vale exhibition on the 26th. there will be a meeting of the FTC Planning Committee during which at least an hour will be set aside for members of the community to put their views on the core strategy including retail development. In the next few days I will be publishing a note on the FTC website that explains the planning laws in regard to retail and employment development. Far from trying to keep the public in the dark, the committee have been working hard to ensure that any decision as to the recommendations that we will make next year takes clear account of the whole public view. We will listen to groups that have a clear monetary interest, but we would particularly like to hear from members of the public. It is not clear which, or if any, of the developers will attend this meeting, but by then we should all have a clear knowledge of the facts. I hope that this helps. Alan Hickmore Chair FTC Planning

Tescos meeting update - 16/12/09 Apparently it was not the Town Council but the Planning and Highways Committee that excluded the public. This has happened previously when applicants are presenting incomplete plans to avoid undue distress to those who may, or may not, be affected if the plans are eventually approved. I guess there could also be commercial sensitivities involved. (Thank you to June RENNIE Town Clerk for clarifiying the point) We'll have to wait for the January consultation to find out what's proposed. Nigel

Thankyou re Christmas Lights - 16/12/09 Thank you "Name Supplied" for your comments on the Christmas Lights As chair of the Christmas Lights Committee my thanks comes from all those involved - Rotary, the Retail Group, the Chamber of Commerce and the Town Council. We hope to continue the display for many years to come. Alan Hickmore

Tescos not at meeting- 16/12/09 In response to the comment made by ED(GW) to the article entitled Tescos: please note that Tesco, Budgens and Faringdon Estates will NOT be attending the meeting on 26 January. This public meeting will be attended by the Vale planners only. Laura Howard VWHDC Planning

Fantastic Christmas Lights - 16/12/09 The Christmas lights in town are fantastic the market place is a picture post card we should be proud that a small town provides these for us every year. Thank you Name Supplied

Tescos- 16/12/09 Can anyone shed any light on what happened at yesterday's Town Council meeting? Apparently Tescos were invited to present the plans for their proposed new store on Park Road. However the public were excluded at this point by invoking 'Section 65' as it was deemed not to be in the public interest for the public to be present! All sounds a bit bizarre. Will the minutes of the meeting ever become available? Any suggestions as to what could be so secretive about a supermarket? Nigel ED(GW) I understand there is to be a public meeting on 26th January about 'Shopping in Faringdon'. Look out for the leaflet in the next Whats on. I understand that VWHDC planners and Tesco, Budgens and Faringdon Estates will be there to answer questions. The leaflet asks for your views by 29th January!!

Has The Town Council got it wrong? - 16/12/09 At the Town Council meeting yesterday, Tesco were invited to present to the Town Council their plans for development of a store along Park Road in Faringdon. It was a public meeting and representing the Public were: Nick Elwell representing Focus on Faringdon & The Chamber of Commerce Daphne Saunders representing Faringdon Area Project and the Food Group Simon Tiensa representing the Retail Group Al Caine on behalf of the Folly News Paper. They were all excluded from the meeting. Standing Order 65 was quoted as the reason. Standing Order 65 states that the Public may be excluded if such exclusion is in the Public Interest. It is felt that excluding the public on this occasion was not in the public interest. If you agree that the Council members have exceeded their authority or manipulated the Rules to suit their own purposes register you opinion on www.focusonfaringdon.co.uk Faringdon Chamber of Commerce

Memories of Christmas - 16/12/09 My mother very busy cooking the Christmas dinner- she did everything- carols on the radio, me and brothers and sisters milling about, probably getting in the way, and my father standing in the middle of the kitchen saying 'I hate Christmas' Memorable!! and that was when Christmas was a much more modest occasion II could live without it too! (Bah!!) Name Supplied

A Doctor Writes, part 2- 15/12/09 Seems I may have to visit A. Doctor as he could be right in that my testicles havent yet descended. As I am now 80, is this a problem? Lord Thresher

Faringdon Youth Club funding may be cut - 15/12/09 As you may be aware there are proposed cuts in Youth Service budgets from 2012 of around two thirds. This is roughly £2.3 million! This could lead to the closure of some youth centres accross the county including Faringdon which is not nice considering the time its taken to get a youth centre that the town deserves. If you think this is a bad thing, not only for Faringdon but all of the young people in Oxfordshire then make your voice heard by contacting the following people... This will affect young people and because Faringdon Youth Centre is shiny, bright and new doesn't mean its immune from the cuts in 2012. Please pass this onto others who may want to have their say... Member of the Council with the portfolio for Youth Work. louise.chapman@oxfordshire.gov.uk Friend and keen supporter of FYC also the County Councillor for the local area judith.heathcoat@oxfordshire.gov.uk Your local Member of Parliament.vaizeye@parliament.uk This will affect young people and because Faringdon Youth Centre is shiny, bright and new doesn't mean its immune from the cuts in 2012. Please pass this onto others who may want to have their say... David Mepham

A Doctor Writes.- 15/12/09 I have been reading with some concern the messages emanating from the subject of Christmas lights. As we all know , the season of goodwill is upon us, but alas for some this can signal the approach of a very stressful period. In my experience, these stressful times of the year, when perhaps family proximity and extra expense is anticipated, are particularly problematic for individuals who suffer from low self esteem, chronic self pity, or plain old fashioned jealousy when we feel that someone is getting ‘something for nothing’, especially when it is something we aren’t getting. There does seem to be a quite a little epidemic of ‘ignorance’, and ‘prejudice’ going round this site at the moment, which is affecting the aristocracy (rhymes with ‘hypocrisy’?) rather more than the rest of the contributors. Of course we all like to get something for nothing, even we doctors; and I dare say the aristocracy like Lords Thresher and Hawhaw, deep down, are just like the rest of us and would like to get their snouts in the trough if only they could. Their assertions that mostly workshy individuals occupy ‘social’ housing are quite misleading, rather like the old Victorian adage that masturbation causes blindness. My goodness if that were true none of us would have need of illumination at all, now would we? My advice to you all then is to get out and enjoy the Christmas lights. They only occur once a year and give a great deal of pleasure and allow us all to be creative. I know the wife and I like to get lit up, anyway. Remember, we may have no lights at all in the future so feast your eyes while the going is still good and ignore the detractors. A word to our ‘Lords’. Although I have no reason to suppose you don’t actually have aristocratic credentials, I do feel it is my duty to point out that those who perhaps suffer from delusions of grandeur, do so out of a deep sense of inferiority, - and quite often have a few problems ‘down there’ as we doctors say. If that is the case, and you are finding the strain of the festive season is bringing out your symptoms more than usual please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me via the website, in confidence of course, and I will be very happy to recommend a reliable counselling service. I am here to help. A.Doctor.

Triple Whammy - 14/12/09 The Roman Catholic church had standing room only for The Faringdon Singers Christmas Concert yesterday. At the end of a wonderful concert by Faringdon Singers, Sing Faringdon joined them for the Hallelujah chorus, so there were nearly 60 singers. A huge treat for Sing Faringdon to sing something complex with experienced singers. We normally sing more modern songs in unison. This was part of the BBC Radio 3 initiative to get people to discover the joy of singing. You can hear our performance on www.faringdonsingers.org.uk/ AND The retiring collection raised £850 (normally c £200) - to be shared between Macmillan Cancer support and Children in Need. How good is that - singing for many, entertainment for even more while raising money for such a good cause. If you want to sing: Faringdon Singers. Thursday. United Church 1945-2100 Sing Faringdon: Tuesday. Roman Catholic Church 1900-2000, 5th January- 9th Feb. Just turn up Cotswold Voices: Tuesday. St Christophers School, Langford. Tuesday 12th 1930-2030 Gene Webb

Blood doning in Faringdon. 17th December 1.15pm - 3.30pm & 4.30pm - 7.15pm at The Corn Exchange, Corn Market, Faringdon. For more information or to book an appointment to attend the session (this is recommended), please call 0300 123 2323 or visit www.blood.co.uk Do something amazing - Give Blood & save lives! New donors are welcomed

Re Christmas Lights.- 14/12/09 In regards to Lord Threshers comments my parents always make the effort and decorate their house, it is worth it to see my childrens faces and also the children that come sighseeing, neither of them are on benefits my dad is still working in spite of turning 65 last year and my mum has only recently retired due to ill health after working all her life , their house was featured on this very website last year which made them very proud, Christmas is a time for celebration not for judging other people. Name Supplied

Re Christmas Lights.- 14/12/09 It is nonsence to suggest that only those on benefits put up Christmas lights. Have a look at the displays at the Berners Way part that overlooks Pitts Park. There are two lovely displays. This farely new Christmas lights display outside of people houses that has become popular in recent years, is something that makes the whole season even more fun for us all. Keep it going everybody despite the Scrooges. Alan Hickmore

Re Christmas Lights.- 14/12/09 Successful post then. I did say majority, so by that there are always some in the minority. But, I do still believe that some of those majority are indeed workshy. If i offended, tough; dont read it. Lord Thresher

Christmas Lights.- 13/12/09 I take offence to the comment about benefits and christmas lights!! It is not always the "workshy" that find themselves on benefits, I am a newly single parent due to a bereavement and after finding myself stuggling i have finally come to terms with claiming benefits to survive financially, I would ask you to read your comment again before sending it next time and think who you might offend! Are you really that small minded to believe that everyone who claims a benefit is as you put it workshy!! some people are honest have been hardworking and find themselves in need of a little help. But thank you for showing everyone how Compassionate you are Lord Thresher Dave

Re Postage Stamps.- 13/12/09 Poster is obviously a Royal Mail employee going by the tone of the reply. This "facility" has been going on for years. Hardly depriving Royal Mail of income. If there was better management locally and nationally at the Royal Mail, and they did a reasonable service at a decent price; then perhaps they wouldnt be such a militant bunch. Carry on steaming off the stamps! Penny Black

Postage Stamps.- 13/12/09 Can believe somebody is so tight but one question to the said poster. Do you want a post service in future if no then carry on . If yes stop being so tight and buy another stamp. This is one of small factors of lost revenune that the royal mail have yes maybe it there own fault for not franking the letter but it does not make it right to reuse it. The other lost of money is free redirections for say children that have gone to uni. Where the parents write the new address and when have to deliver it a second time for the same flat cost it was posted for. Part of the rules they are held to under the inland posting regs. That none of the rivals has to abide to. Most of the customers who do this own half of oxfordshire because they have a job to make ends meet and cant afford a proper redirection service. Name Supplied

Re car Parking -12/12/09 May I suggest you take a look at the Faringdon Town Council website, lots of information on there with a link from this site, and you're welcome to pop along to council meetings to find out more or ask a question you may have. Regards David Keeble (Cllr)

Christmas Lights.- 12/12/09 Why is it that the majority of the houses decorated up to the nines with lights and other Christmas paraphenalia are those on benefits? Glad to see that the hard earned money I earn from 2 jobs is going to pay for the workshy to brighten up the place. Lord Thresher

Parking Machines. 12/12/09 Name supplied makes some rather bold assertions in his defence of Vale parking charges. To tax and insure a vehicle for 12 months requires a few moments at the computer once a year, it is not a memory test of the registration number. To suggest that anyone who cannot instantly recall their registration number is operating illegally is obvious nonsense. On the issue of theft of council resources I beg to differ, indeed I would argue that the council could be said to steal my resource. If I pay for a parking bay for two hours, but leave after one hour I have paid for that place for the second hour, what right do the council have to let my space before the second hour has expired? Under the old system a few tickets were passed on as an act of generosity, however the actual cost to Abingdon must have been miniscule and smacks of mean spirited desperation. Remember I have already paid for the space and could choose to stay for the entire two hours. Car parks are one of the few facilities left in the town provided by the Vale, they are clearly bent on maximising the revenue they take from the town. Faringdon, as we are constantly reminded, has parking problems which drive visitors and shoppers away, what hope regenerating the town centre with this attitude to customers? Perhaps Vale councillors should look to the example of Witney/Carterton etc where parking is free and the town centres are thriving, current policy simply drives customers into the free car parks of Tescos et al. Stewve Leniec

Recycling Postage Stamps.- 12/12/09 When reusing stamps that havent been cancelled, just make sure you dont reattach with sticky tape as the recipient will be charged the penalty fee. Restick using a pritt stick or similar. Oh, there is only 1 post these days, just that they arent as good as they used to be. Penny Black

Open Stage event on Boxing Day - 12/12/09 M.A.D.D. will be running a special Christmas open Stage event at the Corn Exchange in faringdon throughout the day on Sat 26th (Boxing Day) december . this is open to all performers and non performers. Commencing at 10 am with the Mummers Play . Come and see the traditional Christmas play and help us to celebrate Christmas. mulled wine on offer and a low cost bar. Sam Prince

Local transport consultation - 12/12/09 The deadline has been extended until 1/1/2010 See link at the top of this page Please complete it - it's very short- with most opportunity to add your views and suggestions Gene

Re: Car Parking Machines. - 11/12/09 Since a car driver is legally required to satisfy himself that his vehicle is taxed, insured and roadworthy before driving on the public highway, surely they must have sufficient knowledge of the vehicle's registration for it not to be difficult to use the ticket machines. If people are having difficulty, it must therefore mean they don't know whether the vehicle they're driving is legal - I believe that state of affairs to be an offence under the Road Traffic Acts. Car parking is a resource that has a cost like any other resource and must be paid for - transfering a ticket to another vehicle is fraudulent misuse of a Council asset, ie, theft. Name Supplied ED(GW(female)) I have to look at my car reg before I go to the machine - but I've only had it 2.5 years(and it's legal). The reg of the car I learned to drive in in 1963 is AMO 290B. It was blue.

Recycling Postage Stamps.- 10/12/09 I'm sure that what I am advocating may be illegal so I hope Gene will not give me away. As the Christmas cards arrive, usually by the second post in the afternoon ( we don't get a first post) I realise that many of the stamps are unfranked. So I remove them and re-use them... Seemple ! To those of you who think it is a waste of time today I helped the environment by rescuing 2 2nd and 1 1st class stamps. Name Supplied

I see that the VWHDC has made £924,000 accounting error! - 10/12/09 See http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/oxfordshire/8404391.stm They claim that there has been a marginal adverse impact on services, is it because they ignore the fact that services like street cleaning are just not happening in the way they used to? Makes you wonder what oyher errors they have made on our behalf. Happysnap You can see the detail on http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/news_views/press_releases/article.asp?id=tcm:4-6963&rtn=D. Includes a pdf file with 50+ actions of how the budget deficit is to be resolved Key savings are: - closure of the Wantage local services point, saving around £160,000 a year. The services point is used by a relatively small number of people and offers a costly method of dealing with basic transactions such as ordering brown bins, paying council tax or seeking information about council services - significantly reducing spending on sports development from £150,000 to £50,000. Sports development is not a priority for the council and the revised level of spend reflects this reducing spending on grants to outside bodies, particularly through - withdrawing funding for one-off grants in 2010/11, saving £100,000 - reducing various special responsibility allowances for councillors, including those to leader and deputy leader; overall saving £25,000 removing essential car user allowances from those staff that undertake low levels of official mileage; ultimate saving £80,000 - modest increases in various car parking charges to generate extra income of £71,000, offset by offering free parking in all car parks after 4.00 pm

Re Parking Firstly sorry I did mean Swan Lane. Secondly I would not mind not having anywhere to park as long as I was not expected to work. I suppose I could move to the new social housing development then I guess I may not be expected to. Serious question. Can someone please explain how Faringdon Town Council works if they do not have any control over the Town? Without wishing to be rude, have no lessions been learnt from the Lees social housing experiment? why is it being expanded heaven help us. I do not think I am the only one who thought that they were re building the old folks home ? Name Supplied

Swine Flu Jabs - 8/12/09 White Horse GPs say that very few people have contacted them for a flu jab. Anyone with a chronic illness such as asthma,diabetes or an immune deficiency illness, or is a carer or is pregnant can have one. Apparently it comes in batches of 10, so they need to take names and organise. Ring you doctor Gene Webb

Re Parking in Church Street - 8/12/09 Just to clarify, the 'council' you are referring to was not our local town council, they have no durestriction over road markings... They can only make recommendations, most of which are completely ignored by the district and county councils. Name Supplied

Christmas tree sale? - 8/12/09 In response to Liz below, the FCC PTA Christmas Tree sale is this Saturday, the 12th, from 8am - 3pm outside the storage company on Park Road. A variety of non-drop trees for sale (so the ad. says!) Nigel

Re Parking in Church Street Part 2 - 8/12/09 The new development is the new "social Housing" going up where one of the old folks homes used to be. Lots of flats going up, no parking so there will be the inevitable log jam on the flyover all day. Lord HawHaw

Faringdon Folly - please complete this questionnaire - 9/12/09 Faringdon Folly Tower is our most notable landmark and as such is very important to the town and people who live here and nearby. Most people love it and many visit the tower or the hill frequently. We all look forward to the Christmas light on the tower. The tower is in need of extensive repairs including a new roof and electrical wiring. We also want to invest in the woodland to increase biodiversity, plant trees and provide information boards, and maybe provide some public art to encourage visitors to the hill whether the tower is open or not. Friends of Faringdon Folly are busy applying for grants to carry out this work and your support will increase our chances of success, so please complete the Folly questionnaire (it is very short), This will help to ensure that the Folly Tower and Woodland are well-maintained and available for years to come for the benefit of the Town and surrounding villages. Please return it to genewebb@rocketmail.com

Christmas tree sale? - 8/12/09 Does anyone know if real christmas trees will be on sale, on Park Street, this year in aid of the school?? (I've lost my "what's on"!) Liz

Re Parking in Church Street - 7/12/09 Park in Swan Lane as that has double yellow lines which mean absolutely nothing like the rest of the town. Cant wait to see what happens when the new development in the Portway opens. Lord Hawhaw Ed(GW) What new dev?

Corn Exchange/music.- 7/12/09 I have just been re-reading the posts c.November 2006 about the demise of live music in the Corn Exchange. Since then Faringdon Town Council has taken over full responsibility for the venue from VWHDC and, supposedly, problems with the sound levels tripping the limiter had been resolved. Nevertheless many events since then have been blighted by sound (and lighting) being cut off. Last Friday, for the first time in ages, I enjoyed an evening of uninterrupted live music. Does this mean that pre 2006 sound levels are now restored? I do hope so. Sheila

Faringdon Leisure Centre Pool Refurbishment - 7/12/09 Our local Swimming Pool will be closed from 14th December and will re-open on Monday 4th January 2010. The pool is getting a new Air Handing Unit at a cost of approximately £80,000. Usually a keen swimmer? why not try an exercise class? or even have a gym programme tailored for your personal fitness goal. Contact the centre to find out what is on offer. 01367 241755

Corn Exchange - great venue.- 7/12/09 Many thanks to Sheila for her comments on the Friday Jam Club. I agree it was a fantastic night which we would like to carry on with but until the limiter is set to the level we had on friday night or gotten rid of because it is a piece of equipment which is not required by law it would be stupid to book any more bands. M.A.D.D. has recieved support from many musicians to come and perform at the club as a support to keep it going in their words, "Keep music live" This would have to be done on a more acoustic level, so there is still hope for the club to continue next year.All i can say is watch this space or www.maddfaringdon.co.uk

Car Parking in Church Street - 06/12/09 I have great empathy for the Nice Lady who lives in Church Street. Faringdon is a lovely town which because of its age has numerous housing that does not have parking facilities. I do not consider she and others park intentionally to irritate people. I for example sometimes work shifts and returning home after midnight can take up to 20 minutes to find somewhere to park. This problem has been made worse by the council decision to ban parking in church street. Name Supplied

Sing Hallelujah! with Faringdon Singers, next Sunday - 6/12/09 13th December, 3pm Catholic Church Joined by Sing Faringdon to sing The Hallelujah Chorus, as part of Radio 3’s Sing Hallelujah! Faringdon singers will be singing from their repertoire and there will be carols to join in with Afterwards mince pies and punch in the Hall Retiring collection in aid of Save the Children and MacMillan Cancer Care

Faringdon and the Folly in Cotswold Life - 6/12/09 We're in the January edition that is available to but 16th December Gene Webb

Corn Exchange - great venue.- 5/12/09 To all the people and dog who came to the Jam Club on Friday 4th Dec.Many thanks. For M.A.d.D.it showed what a great venue for live music the corn exchange could be. It's the only one in town.I would like to know how many people feel the same? Sam Prince

Fantastic evening at the Corn Exchange Jam Club. 4/12/09 For once (surely not the last time?) the sound was at an appropriate level for the band, Giles Hedley & the Aviators, who were superb. As was the young boy who 'sat in' with the band and played excellent blues guitar. A talent to watch out for - you might catch him at the 15 minute club or Open Stage on Jan 5th. Sheila

Richard Todd - 4/12/09 Yet another famous name who used to live near Faringdon has passed away. My condolences to the surviving members of his family and those who knew him Colin

Car Parking in Church Street - 01/12/09 To who ever wrote on my car It was not parked dangerously, but legally and near a street light, and a common place for people to park. In addition, I live on Church St and when all the legal spaces along the entire length of the street and down swan lane are taken, where exactly am I supposed to park? on the double yellows ? I have 2 very small children and lament the parking for residents in town, when I struggle to find a space remotely near my house. Free parking for those who shop and work in town would free up spaces for those who live there. Or perhaps some residents only allocated places, as I imagine I'm not the only one who has to resort to less than ideal parking places when returning home . name supplied

For previous Talking Point entries- going back to April 2002 - go to Talking Points Archive

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