Good news has been received regarding the Buntingford and Community Area Neighbourhood Plan - the Inspector has finished his review and subject to some minor revisions has recommended that it should now go to a referendum. This is likely to be early next year and once further details are known the Civic Society will be urging all residents from the plan area to read the plan and vote on its acceptance.

On a connected note the Civic Society, along with the Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce and BARD, are currently drafting a response to East Herts District Council's draft District Plan. We are generally in agreement with the Buntingford section of the plan but will be suggesting some revisions.

Civic Voice are launching a 'Fight for Beauty' campaign as part of their Big Conservation Conversation. Next year is the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the first conservation area and next year's National Civic Day, on 17th June, will focus on conservation areas and their future. More on this in future issues of the Journal.

You will have noticed that the two diseased trees on Market Hill have sadly been removed. Herts County Council will be replacing the trees but their budget is only likely to run to saplings as replacements. The Civic Society will work with the Town Council to see if additional funding could provide more robust replacements.

At the time of writing the refurbishment of the Town Pump is imminent. Contractors have been on site taking measurements and work was projected to start in the week commencing 14th November. The pump is in a very sad state at the moment and I sincerely hope that the refurbishment, which is being fully funded by the Civic Society, will restore it to its former glory

At a recent BCS Executive meeting the very poor state of some of our footways, particularly with regards to weeds and overhanging and overgrown bushes, was brought up. Not only is this unsightly but in some instances dangerous. We have some photographic evidence which will be shared with the Head of Highways at Herts County Council to see if action can be taken. If you know an area that desperately needs tidying up, take a photo and send it to either the Journal editor or the BCS Chairman, who will add it to our collection.

Finally, on behalf of the Civic Society, I would like to wish Journal readers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Graham Bonner, Chairman, Buntingford Civic Society

If you have any queries about Buntingford Civic Society or issues you would like to raise, you can email the Chairman direct at chairman@buntingfordcivic.org.uk.

This website and all the pages herein are © Buntingford Civic Society.