The October meeting of Finchampstead Parish Council began with an informal discussion with Sergeant Mike Cull from Wokingham Police, and our local Police Community Support Officer, Jenny Beckford.  There has been some reorganisation of local policing and Councillors were concerned that, having lost PC Dave McKay (due to promotion) back in the Spring, we may now face a further reduction in local cover.  We were assured that this was not the case, but the situation has prompted Councillors to consider funding another PCSO to work solely in Finchampstead.  This will be discussed at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.  Meanwhile, Jenny Beckford has been visiting local schools and is becoming a familiar figure around the parish.  The Council was assured that Jenny will remain on our patch, even if we fund a further PCSO.

On 19 September the Parish Council was represented at a multi-agency meeting set up to consider concerns over the Rides.  The meeting was extremely positive, with the newly-formed Residents’ Association putting forward its plans, and WDC offering support in the form of further Youth Provision.  The Residents’ Association now has regular meetings at St Mary & St John’s Church Centre – see notice boards for details.

Councillor Simon Weeks, who also sits on the District Council, brought to the attention of the Council the plight of the residents of Heath Ride, Hollybush Ride, etc.  These roads are designated as RUPPs (Roads used as Public Paths) and new legislation will probably prohibit the use of mechanically propelled vehicles on such roads.  This will obviously pose a problem for the residents!  Councillor Weeks advised that, if these roads can be re-designated as BOATs (Byways open to all traffic) the problem will be solved, though evidence will be needed to establish a Right of Way.  A Residents’ Group has been formed to look into all the issues.

Part of Church Lane will be closed for several weeks for work on the water main.  Let’s hope that, if it has to be dug up, it will be re-surfaced

Finally, look out for your Parish Council Newsletter; coming soon to every household in the Parish.

Cllr Chris Driver

The date this page was last altered was March 11, 2007.

Copyright © 2003 Finchampstead Parish Council