Have a Voice - Things Are Happening

Hope you noticed the Civic Voice logo at the top of the page. The new national organisation for Civic Societies is progressing well and gaining recognition in areas where it will have influence. Members of The National Trust may have seen in their magazine an article by Griff Rhys Jones entitled "Power to the Nimby activist!".

Griff Rhys Jones argues that we should not back off from protecting our backyards when developers,local government and central government are pushing through schemes that are insensitive and harm communities.

A change of government seems to be bringing a change in the planning process an example being the declassification of gardens as brown field sites. This will give residents a stronger case if they object to a particular 'in-filling' proposal.

If more decisions are to be devolved to local communities it does require us all to become engaged in the process for we can make a difference.

Buntingford will face a major challenge when the Sainsbury site is subject to a planning application. There is the potential to create a high quality village with mixed housing,leisure facilities,schools,retail outlets and employment opportunities. The real threat is a mammoth supermarket which will be disastrous for our High Street and economy. Just look at Royston as an example.

As part of the "Community Pride Initiative" the Civic Society is embarking on a membership drive which aims to support our young people. During this year for each new joiner the Civic Society will donate £ 10.00 to the Buntingford & District Youth Club to improve its facilities.( to maximum £ 1000.00 ) If you are a member recruit a neighbour, if you are simply a Journal reader join today! You will help the youngsters and also have a vehicle through which to challenge unacceptable developments.

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