September

We were overtaken by events when in the July/August edition of the Journal reference was made to Ruth Kelly's impending decision on Harlow North, no s ooner had we published, then Yvette Cooper (no relation) was appointed as Minister for Housing and the issue is now in her remit. I raise this topic to introduce an article reproduced elsewhere in the Journal and first published in the ANTAS Newsletter entitled' Housing in the 21st.Century' and is a summary by Andrew Sangster of a talk given by Hertford architect David Kirby. The article is well worthwhile reading as it gives a different view on an important and topical subject.

BCS is very pleased to learn that a commitment has been made to prepare a Town Plan. The project leader is Cllr. Brian Austin and we will provide the best support to him that we can. It is important to have a clear vision of how Buntingford develops and inform the District and County planners in the format they require to prepare integrated Local Development Frameworks. The success of this engagement will be measured by a wide based contribution,acceptance of key proposals by District and County and effective follow-up at Town level. Please show interest in this project and get involved in the consultative process.

I am certain that everyone reacted with horror at the pictures of flooding in Yorkshire and Gloucestershire and elsewhere and we deeply sympathise with the people who have had their homes destroyed by exceptional weather conditions. It is claimed that a contributing factor in such widescale flooding has been the decline in routine maintenance of drains in recent years - if that is the case we should seek assurance that our drains are blockage free and fit for purpose. Is it a coincidence that recently workmen and vehicles have been seen around Buntingford flushing drains ?

Re-read Jenny Dingley's article from the June edition of the Journal and look at the illustration it could be Tewkesbury 2007 - we are not exempt!

Derek K Cooper, Chairman.