The Parish's first ever Parish Plan was officially signed off by West Berkshire Council in June 2009.  So many thanks to all those involved in bringing it into being - it certainly would not have been possible without the co-operation of the local community and members of the Parish Plan Steering Group.

What is a Parish Plan?

The purpose of the Parish Plan is to provide a vision statement for the future, setting out the aims and objectives of the Parish for the next five - ten years.  It is also significant as it will be taken into account by others who have influence over what happens in the Parish, for example West Berkshire Council will need to refer to it when making decisions about things that go on in the Parish.

The process of developing the Parish Plan began in November 2005 after an initiative by the Parish Council. A steering group was subsequently formed, independent of the Council, and this took on the role of consulting and engaging with the local community to find out what residents wanted to see happen where they live.

Why Have a Parish Plan?

There are many benefits to completing a Parish Plan, these include:

• Creating a real sense of community spirit and reinvigorating local democracy.
• Encouraging groups and organisations to work in partnership.
• Providing clear defined evidence of community needs and priorities.
• Access to the Parish Plan Grant Fund and other funding streams which may otherwise be denied.
• Highlighting innovative projects which need help from other agencies.
• Strengthening the Parish Council's relationship with the community.
• Providing a basis upon how West Berkshire Council can help determine how local services are delivered in your area.
• Using the Parish Council as a tool to complement and help deliver local planning policies (although they cannot override adopted planning policy).

The Future

It is important to bear in mind that views change and what may be considered important today may not be in five years' time.  The Plan should therefore be constantly reviewed and updated every few years.

The Steering Group disbanded following completion of the Plan and the Parish Council is now responsible for implementing actions under the Plan and monitoring the Plan's progress.  However, as the Council has limited resources it would always welcome any offers of assisting in progressing action points under the Plan.  The actions range from litter picking to tackling speeding in Love Lane, so there is therefore something in it for everyone!