Welcome to the West Horndon Parish Website
Here you can find information about our village, local activities and events, and the Parish Council. To find out more, please navigate through this website using the page links above.
Latest News
20/09/18
A reminder that PC Rebecca Charge will be holding a Community Police Surgery at the Christabella Wing at St Francis Church, West Horndon on Saturday 13th October from 12:00. Please come along to hear the latest crime figures for the village and what initiatives are being taken to prevent crime.
20/09/18
Public consultation on expansion of West Horndon Primary School
Parents/ carers and other interested persons are invited to attend a public meeting, where officers from Essex County Council will be available to talk about the proposed expansion and answer questions. Two meetings will be held on Wednesday 10 October 2018, at 2:30pm and at 6pm in the school, Thorndon Avenue, West Horndon, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3TR. Those wishing to attend may come along at whichever time is most convenient to them.
The consultation document can be here - http://essex.gov.uk/schoolconsultation
The closing date for receipt of comments on the proposal is 14 October 2018
20/09/18
Services for Seniors Event
An event showcasing services and support available for older people in Brentwood will take place next month.
The Services for Seniors event, which will be on Monday 1 October, at The Brentwood Centre, is an opportunity for older residents, family, friends and carers to find out information, and what advice and support services are available locally.
More information can be found here - http://bit.ly/2QLdgYY
08/09/18
We are delighted that our new memorial bench has arrived and is installed in the park.
The bench has been provided by Brentwood Council and is a memorial to the two American bombers and their crews that collided over the village during World War 2.
A massive thanks to our ward councillor and Brentwood's Mayor Sheila Murphy who has been instrumental in getting this bench. Also a big thanks to Allan Marsh.
The memorial service for the lives lost in the crash 75 years ago is at 10.30 on Saturday, 22nd September at Bulphan Church.
In the meantime we hope that many of you will come and have a look and take a quiet moment of reflection.
20/08/18
Brentwood Borough Council consultation on Play Areas
BBC is asking residents for their opinion on the future of play areas.
Please refer to http://www.brentwood.gov.uk/press.php?pressId=2678 where you have until the 30th September to complete the BBC survey.
16/08/18
Update to Bus Information pages on Essex County Council website
ECC are looking to update the website pages - https://www.essexhighways.org/getting-around/bus.aspx
relating to local Bus information. They have set-up a questionnaire in order to gauge opinions about the redesign of these pages and the potential changes.
Please take a look and if you have time complete the questionnaire.
https://surveys.essexinsight.org.uk/TakeSurvey.aspx?PageNumber=1&SurveyID=86MM9n45&Preview=true#
The survey will close on Friday, 31st August 2018.
If you have any queries, please contact passenger.transport@essex.gov.uk.
08/8/18
Local Community Policing Meeting
There will be a meeting held in the Christabella wing of St Francis Church on Saturday, 11th August at 12PM with the new Community Policing Officer. This will give everybody the opportunity to raise with her any issues you have that are affecting the village.
14/6/2018
12/6/2018
Station Road closure
https://roadworks.org/?tm=105984140
The junction will be closed from Monday, 23rd July to Wednesday, 25th July for installation of 30MPH signage and yellow lining.
https://roadworks.org/?tm=10581622930/5/2018
A128 road closure, 4th & 5th June
The notice does not make it clear whether the Tilbury Road will have traffic lights or the road will be completely closed.
Info here - https://roadworks.org/?tm=105847132
19/5/2018
10/5/2018
Station Road will be closed between 8PM and midnight tomorrow, Friday 11th May. Essex County Council will be undertaking Pre-Surface Dressing Works. More information can be found here - https://roadworks.org/?tm=105657344
27/4/2018
The timetable for the mobile library has been updated.
The Parish Council is still looking for volunteers to help run the Summer Fete. This is an event for all the family but we need assistance to ensure it's as much a success this year as in previous years. The date/time is 7th July, 2PM to 5PM, in the village park. If you can spare a few hours please contact either Sue Lister at whpc.cllr.suelister@gmail.com or Kim Harding at whpc.parishclerk@gmail.com
The Parish Council is soon to become a memberr of the Brentwood Bus and Rail Users Association whose aim is to improve local transport services. Further information can be found on their website - http://www.bbarua.org.uk/ or by contacting Claire Jones at Claire.diana.jones@hotmail.co.uk
26/4/2018
Local Groups
The list has now been updated, if you would like your local group listed please provide details to the Parish Clerk at whpc.parishclerk@gmail.com
21/4/2018
Citizens Awards 2018
The entry date of noon, 1st May 2018 is getting close and the Parish Council hasn't had any entries to date. We would like to recognise those who have made a difference in the last year but we need your help. The Form can be downloaded here
10/04/2018
A new entry has been added to the Events page, our wonderful Summer Fete. All the information about it can be found on the page. Please add it to your diary so you don't miss it.
The Parish Council are looking for volunteers to help at this event. If you can spare some time please contact Sue Lister at whpc.cllr.suelister@gmail.com or Kim Harding at whpc.parishclerk@gmail.com
04/04/2018
Unfortunately Cllrs Mark Abel and Reg Giles-Wyatt have tendered their resignation from the Council. This is a critical period for the village with the publication by Brentwood Borough Council (BBC) of the Local Development Plan. As many of you will be aware the village has two of the preferred sites identified by BBC for housing development.
To paraphrase the famous 1914 recruitment poster "YOUR VILLAGE NEEDS YOU!"
Therefore anybody interested in becoming a Parish Councillor should in the first instance either contact the Parish Clerk, Kim Harding, at whpc.parishclerk@gmail.com/07722 843249 or the Chairman, Dan McNicol, at whpc.cllr.danmcnicol@gmail.com/07973 694583.
03/04/2108
As in previous years, the Parish Council will be awarding Citizenship Awards. The Form can be downloaded here. Please ensure that all Forms are received by noon on Tuesday 1st May 2018. Details where they are to be sent can be found at the foot of the Form.
03/03/2018
BBC have announced the glass and green waste collections will recommence on Friday, 16th March
28/02/2018
Due to the inclement weather BBC has announced the cancellation of the glass and green waste collections this week. They will provide an update when we can expect these collections to recommence
28/02/2018
Essex Council County has announced the closure of the Halfway House Roundabout for 12 nights starting 5th March 2018 for carriageway sealing works.
Unfortunately the ECC website - https://roadworks.org/?tm=104376648 - doesn't give the times for the closures.
20/02/18
Please remember to fill out and return your Local Development Plan responses by tomorrow (Wednesday). You can put them in the collection boxes at the Church, Village Hall and Jackson's newsagents or email them to whpc.ldpresponse@gmail.com, whpcparishclerk@gmail.com or whpc.cllr.danmcnicol@gmail.com This is hugely important to the village and affects everyone who lives here so please take 5 mins to have your say.
15/02/2018
Over the coming weeks the website will be going through some major changes and updates. One of the first changes has been to update the Event page. Going forward please refer to that page as these will no longer be listed under Latest News
13/02/2018
EASTER Childrens/Family Event
This will take place in the Village Hall on Sunday 25th March 2018 at 2PM. Three competitions will take place as well as organised games. There will be competitions for the Best Decorated Egg, Best Easter Cake and Best Easter Bonnet. There will be three age categories – Up to 8 years of age, 9 to 15, and 16 years of age plus. There will be three prizes in each category; with a first prize of £15, a second prize of £10 and a third prize of £5.
5/02/2018
Please help with our Neighbourhood Plan
28/12/2017
West Horndon Surgery
For those who are not aware of the recent chnages at the surgery, please refer below.
CHANGES AT THE PRACTICE:
We would like to welcome our new partner Dr Suren Sivakumar.
He joined the practice in March 2017 and officially became a partner in July 2017.
The practice has invested a lot of money to improve the appearance of the Practice. We have also have new staff members in reception and dispensing. Please see the practice website for more information: www.peartreesurgery.co.uk
APPOINTMENT SYSTEM:
We have a new appointment system. We have a mixture of Online appointments, Pre-bookable (including late appointments) and Emergency appointments.
Online Appointments: Please speak to reception to obtain a username and password. You need to bring identification with you for reception to supply you with this information.
Pre-bookable Appointments: You can pre-book appointments up to 2 weeks in advance. If you feel that you need to see a doctor sooner, you now have an option to pre-book up to 2 days in advance. For example, you can pre-book an appointment the next day or 2 days later (depending on when an appointment is available), if for example, you need a medication review. We have a limited number of appointments with these appointments.
On the day appointments: These are generally available on the day, and again we have a limited number.
Emergency appointments: If you are unable to obtain an appointment on the day, and can’t wait to be reviewed at a later date, please speak to reception. They will speak to the doctor, and the doctor will decide if they will review you on the day or speak to you to give you further advice.
Telephone appointments: Please speak to reception to book in a telephone appointment. These can be used for medication reviews or speaking to the doctor if you are unable to make it to the surgery. Unfortunately, we are unable to give you a specific time to call you. If a phone call is missed, you may have to reschedule your telephone appointment.
DISPENSING:
West Horndon is a dispensing practice. Please allow 72 hours for your medication to be processed.
Patients are now able to collect their medication (when it is ready) after 9am. All acute prescriptions are processed immediately when seeing a doctor or nurse.
If you have a prescription query, you can either speak to the dispensers or write it down and post it in the prescription box.
It is practice policy for patients or their carers/family members to submit their prescription request. This can also be done online.
Unfortunately we will not be processing prescription requests from pharmacies.
OPENING TIMES:
Monday 9am-6.30pm
Tuesday 9am-6.30pm
Wednesday 9am-6.30pm
Thursday 9am-1pm
Friday 9am-6.30pm
Weekends: CLOSED
If you require more information, please do not hesitate to look at the practice website: www.peartreesurgery.co.uk
07/12/2017
Energy Switch
RESIDENTS can save over £250 on their gas and electric bills by joining the Essex Energy Switch which harnesses people power to secure cheaper deals from energy suppliers.
The county’s collective switching initiative has already saved thousands of Essex people more than £2,297,539 from the past five switches.
Cllr David Finch, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “Rather than switching energy supplier alone which can be a daunting and complicated task, we should work together to save money.
“By joining a collective switch made up of thousands of like-minded people, we increase our purchasing power so we can negotiate a better deal from energy suppliers, who compete against each other at auction to offer the best tariffs.
“Paying over the odds for your electric and gas is not fair, so I hope people take advantage of the Essex Energy Switch. It’s a safe and easy way to save money in which we take all the hassle out of switching.”
Registration opens on Tuesday, December 5, and closes on Tuesday, February 13, before the one-day auction.
Everyone who registers will receive a personalised offer on 23 February, 2018, which details how much they could save by switching to the winning provider, or cheaper tariff.
But there is no obligation for people to take up the offer.
Cllr Finch added: “At the last switch in May, we had more than 6,500 people sign up to switch saving around £250 per year on their bills.
“People who have been on the same tariff with the same supplier for a number of years are particularly like to make savings.
“But even those who switched recently could still save more money by signing up again, after all it only takes five minutes online and we don’t want anyone to lose out.”
To register for the next auction, visit www.essex.gov.uk/energyswitch or call 0800 0488285.
If you don’t have access to the internet, you can ask a relative, friend or neighbour to help because registrations can be made using their email address. One email address can be used up to five times to register for the scheme.
01/12/2017
Christmas is coming
This year’s Christmas tree lighting event will be on Sunday 3rd December. We invite you to come and sing carols around the tree at 5pm. The lights will go on at 5.15pm then we will go into the hall for mince pies, hot drinks and Mulled wine. This year we are being entertained by the Salvation Army band.
The event is for the whole family and we look forward to seeing you there, Christmas jumpers are optional ho ho ho!
01/12/2017
Neighbourhood Plan
Can you volunteer your time to play a role in shaping the Parish for years to come?
West Horndon Parish Council have re-started the process to develop a Neighbourhood Plan.
A Neighbourhood Plan is a framework drawn up by designated body – in this case West Horndon Parish Council (WHPC) - that specifies visions, aims, policies and proposals for development within the neighbourhood area (West Horndon Parish).
The process of developing a Neighbourhood Plan is community led. It involves significant engagement with the local community on their vision for the local area, with this being at the heart of the final document.
West Horndon Parish Council needs to create the steering group to lead on the development of the Neighbourhood Plan. This needs to be made up of people who live within the parish area.
Why do we need a Neighbourhood Plan?
Brentwood Borough Council’s most recent Local Development Plan (LDP) indicates significant development of housing and commercial development within, and adjacent to, West Horndon Parish within the next 15 years.
Whilst Brentwood’s LDP provides policies on the general location of key development areas, the specifics can be guided by an approved Neighbourhood Plan. If successful at a referendum, the Neighbourhood Plan will become part of the statutory development plan for the area and will sit beside the LDP, and provide policies and plans with regards to future development within the Parish.
WHPC is seeking to ensure the community's views are translated as far as possible in to the shape of any ultimate development within the parish, and a Neighbourhood Plan will help to achieve this. This includes the use and development of land, and the provision of new facilities and services to the community, including: doctors, school places and transport services.
It is important to note that having a Neighbourhood Plan will give us a greater share in money (Community Infrastructure Levy) arising from development. This is money that can be used to pay for local facilities that our community needs. Being part of this process can help to shape how this money is spent.
Where can I access updates on the Neighbourhood Plan?
Key updates will be posted on the Parish Council website, community message boards and social media. The plan will also be regularly discussed at the Parish Council's regular monthly meetings which are open to the public.
I’m interested in helping out - how can I find out more and get involved?
There will be a variety of opportunities to volunteer to help develop the Neighbourhood Plan. This will include being on the steering group, attending consultation events, as well as delivering leaflets.
For further information, please contact Councillor Kelly Greer:
whpc.cllr.kellygreer@gmail.com
07736030744
Kelly will also be available during the Christmas Tree lighting event at the village hall on Sunday 3rd December from 5pm should you have any questions.
02/11/2017
West Horndon Art Group
West Horndon Art Group is holding its Art Event on Saturday 25th November 2017 at the Village Hall. The event is free and everyone is welcome to attend from 12 midday to 4.00 pm. There will be demonstrations, art for sale, a raffle, a nearly new stall and cakes. Any money raised will go to the Marillac Nursing Home in Brentwood.
30/10/2017
Best Dressed Guy competition
This year the Parish Council is pleased to announce West Horndon’s ‘Best Dressed Guy’ competition. Dad’s please don’t turn up in your best suits, it’s not that type of guy…
It’s open to all schoolchildren who want to take part. Judging will take place at the village hall on Sunday, 5th November from 2.30PM. Prizes will be given for the best dressed guy!
We will also be running a Bonfire Night Cake competition open to all ages with prizes for the best Bonfire themed cake and tastiest! There will be games throughout the afternoon for those that attend.
Everyone is welcome and tea and coffee’s will be served.
Christmas Tree Lighting Event
This year’s Christmas tree lighting event will be on Sunday 3rd December. We invite you to come and sing carols around the tree at 5pm. The lights will go on at 5.15pm then we will go into the hall for mince pies, hot drinks and Mulled wine. This year we are being entertained by the Salvation Army band.
The event is for the whole family and we look forward to seeing you there, Christmas jumpers are optional ho ho ho!
01/08/2017
The Superfast Essex Broadband Programme has launched a public consultation to run during August 2017 to reassess availability of superfast broadband to inform any future broadband work in the county.
Full details and a link to respond can be found at: www.superfastessex.org/whatshappeningnext.
Residents need to check the current State Aid broadband status for their address on the interactive State Aid map on the website and provide feedback with evidence if there is disagreement with the classifiaction shown. Details about the type of evidence required and instructions about how to obtain this are detailed in the public consultation feedback form. Feedback confirming that the broadband status as shown on the map is correct is also welcomed. You will need to provide an address and confirmation whether the response applies to a single address, a full community or multiple addresses.
Feedback on the consultation must only be submitted via the online public consultation feedback form available on the 'What's happening Next?' page at: www.superfastessex.org/whatshappeningnext
27/07/2017
Resurfacing of Station Road, Cadogan Avenue, and Thorndon Avenue will be taking place in August 2017. Thanks go to Councillor Mark Abel for his perserverance with the Highways Authority in ensuring that this much needed work will now go ahead.
All homes within West Horndon Village should now have received a leaflet giving details of the dates on which the resurfacing will take place. Residents are urged to read the leaflet carefully. Comments have been received that the road closures as shown on the front cover are excessive. However, the leaflet makes clear that these are the times when road works will be undertaken and only parts of the affected roads will be unusable. Every effort will be made to allow essential use of the roads being resurfaced at all times. It is understood that total closure of all or part of roads will only take place if absolutely necessary. This is likely to be during the spraying of the bitumen bonding coat, during the laying of the new surface and the compacting process.
Residents are asked to not park their vehicles on the road when 'No Parking' signs have been put up. Drivers are also asked to go slowly across unfinished road surfaces whilst the works are in progress.
It is suggested that doors and windows are kept closed during the resurfacing works to keep out dust. Also, avoid driving or walking on the bitumen spray coat - the thin stickly coat - as it will adhere to you and your vehicle.
Once the new surface has been compacted the contractors will advise when the road is suitable to drive on and can be opened to traffic.
For those residents who have not had sight of the advisory leaflet please contact the Parish Clerk at the usual e-mail address.
26/07/2017
All residents are reminded that on Friday 4th August 2017 there is a Family Fun Day being held in West Horndon Park. The event is being run by Brentwood Borough Council. It runs from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm. There will be games, sports activities, bouncy castles, Punch & Judy, face painting, arts activities and ice cream. Many activities are free but there will be a £2.50 wristband charge per child for bouncy castles and rides at the event. Face painting and refreshments will be charged for separately.
19/06/2017
A white Transit van has been seen in the Village with the occupants offering to undertake gardening work for local residents. It appears that this is a scam with the elderly being targeted. If the van is spotted please be wary and notify the Parish Council or the Police.
09/06/2017
The Parish Council has been advised that road works will be taking place on 16th & 17th June 2017 along that part of St. Mary's Lane within Thurrock. As a result bus route 565 will be subject to a diversion.
08/06/2017
The next Local Community Meeting for the Brentwood District is on Wednesday 28th June 2017 between 7.00 pm and 8.00 pm at the Christabella Wing, St. Francis Church, Thorndon Avenue, West Horndon. Please attend to discuss Local Policing issues with the Community Policing Team.
23/02/2017
Storm Doris has caused considerable damage in the local area. Any storm related enquiries can be reported to the following emergency numbers:-
Emergency Council Service - 01277 262728 - This number can be used for emergencies in respect of council buildings and assets, flooding, dangerous structures, fire or accident, damage in imminent danger of collapse onto a public place and any civil emergency.
Highways Emergency (Essex County Council) - 0345 603 7631 - Icy roads, flooding, obstruction on public highways, fallen trees, street lighting, etc.
Power cuts should be reported using the new emergency number 105.
22/02/2017
Signs stating that Thorndon Avenue will be closed from its junction with Cadogan Avenue to the A127 on 2nd March 2017 have been erected. West Horndon Parish Council understands that this was to allow Essex and Suffolk Water to undertake important works. However, it has now been ascertained that these works have been completed and there will not now be the necessity for the road to be closed. Hopefully, the signs giving incorrect information will be removed shortly.
04/01/2017
A happy, healthy and prosperous New Year to all residents.
As many of you will have heard, an initial 'green light' has been given by the Government to the Dunton Hills Garden Village (DHGV) development. This mean that Brentwood Borough Council will be able to access part of £6m set aside by the Government to scope more detailed plans regarding this proposed new community.
The Parish Council will shortly be issuing a newsletter providing details of discussions with Brentwood Borough Council regarding the latest draft of its Local Development Plan. The newsletter will seek your views on the proposed DHGV development and how you wish the Parish Council to proceed.
17/12/2016
West Horndon Parish Council wishes all parishioners a happy Christmas and prosperous New Year. Brentwood Borough Council has announced that street lights will be left on all night for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day morning under Essex County Council's pledge to light up festivities. It is also understood that extended lighting will be in place for New Year's Eve into New Year's Day.
For those who need access to a dispensing chemist on Christmas Day the closest available pharmacy will be in Langdon Hills. Great Berry Pharmacy, Great Berry Centre, Unit 4, Nightingales, Langdon Hills, SS16 6SA will be open from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm.
09/12/2016
Orsett Christmas Fayre takes place on Saturday 10th December 2016 at High Road, Orsett from 3.30 pm to 7.30 pm. There will be live performances, craft stalls and various food and drink. A number of charities, local firms and organisations from Orsett , Bulphan and Horndon on the Hill will also be present. Most importantly for children young and old - there will be a visit from Father Christmas and his sleigh.
02/12/2016
All residents are welcome to the Christmas Event being held on Sunday 4th December 2016 at West Horndon Village Hall. Camena Music School will be providing the music and entertainment this year. Singing around the Christmas tree will start at 3.30 pm. The Christmas tree lights will be switched on at 4.00 pm. Switching on the Christmas lights this year is June Palmer. After the tree is lit everyone is invited to come into the Village Hall for hot mince pies, sausage rolls, mulled wine and more entertainment. There is a raffle with many of the prizes donated by local shops/businesses. This year it has been decided that charities to benefit from monies received will be Breast Cancer Care and St Luke's Hospice. This is in memory of the Community Award Winner for 2016 - Mrs Betty Fisher.
The Parish Council looks forward to seeing as many of you as possible.
14/11/2016
Those residents who are concerned regarding speeding vehicles within West Horndon Village can attend Community Speedwatch Training. A session is planned to take place on Thursday 8th December 2016 at 2.00 pm in the Council Chamber at Brentwood Town Hall, Ingrave Road, Brentwood. Places can be reserved by contacting Daniel Cannon at daniel.cannon@brentwood.gov.uk;
25/10/2016
Residents are invited to help Brentwood commemorate on Remembrance Day all those who sacrificed their lives for their country.
Brentwood's Remembrance Day Parade and Service will be taking place on Sunday 13th November. The parade will assemble at Library Square, Brentwood School, Bayman Gate, Middleton Hall Lane at 10.15 am. It will make its way to the War Memorial accompanied by the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band at about 10.35 am.
This will be followed by a service conducted by Father Colin from St. Thomas' Church at about 10.50 am and the wreath laying will take place. There will a two minute slience at 11.00 am after which the parade will leave the War Memorial and go towards the High Street via Shenfield Road.
A march past and salute will be taken by Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre from the Dias in the High Street.
24/10/2016
As part of the crackdown in Essex of dumping illegal waste, Essex County Council has released its plan on improving recycling centres in Essex from 31st October 2016. Details can be found on the Essex County Council website.
If you witness or have any information about anyone 'flytipping' or dumping waste illegally in Essex then please report it to the parish council, local authority, Essex Police or the Environmental Agency.
11/10/2016
Two presentations take place this week - and both on the same day
A presentation on proposed flood defence measures around West Horndon Village takes place on Wednesday 12th October 2016 in the rear of St Francis Church. The event offers the opportunity to residents to understand the scheme and ask any questions they might have. The event runs from 3.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
A presentation on the proposed Dunton Hills Garden Suburb is being given by CEG. The event will be held on Wednesday 12th October 2016 in the Christabella Wing of St Francis Church between 4.00 pm and 8.00 pm. The public exhibition is designed to show how key infrastructure would be delivered alongside new homes and employment opportunities.
20/09/2016
In with the new Play equipment in the Park
The new play equipment in the park is now installed and open and available for use.
11/08/2016
Recycle Centre in West Horndon Village
Please note the Recycle Centre / Bring Site will be closed from 12 August 2016
Information On Brentwood Recycling Centres
11/07/2016
Park Update
The Trim Trail and metal Catamaran are being removed and given to the Scout Association at Thriftwood . Keep your eyes open in the coming weeks for new play equipment.
In the meantime please ensure children are supervised in the park area.
17/03/2016 Parish Council Response Documents
Appendix to Local Development Plan Response
West Horndon - Sustainability Appraisal 20 03 16
West Horndon Neighbourhood Plan - Sustainability Appraisal - Executive Summary 20 03 16
Appendix 1 - Services and Facilities
Appendix 2 - Compatibility Issues
Appendix 3 - Extract from Current Local Plan
Appendix 4 - The Assessment Process
03/03/2016: OFFICIAL BRENTWOOD BOROUGH COUNCIL COMMENT ON LOWER THAMES CROSSING
Please find the official Brentwood Borough Council comment on the proposed Lower Thames Crossing below:
Press release
Date: 3 March 2016
Council to respond to Lower Thames Crossing consultation
Councillors agreed as an item of urgent business at this week’s Planning & Licensing Committee (1 March) that Brentwood Borough Council’s response to the Lower Thames Crossing consultation will be considered for approval at the next meeting of the Policy, Finance & Resources Committee on Tuesday 22nd March.
At the end of January 2016, the Council received details from Highways England of the Lower Thames Crossing plans to link Tilbury with Gravesend in Kent as their preferred option, which is known as Option C. Highways England also launched a public consultation which ends on 24 March 2016.
There is a clear understanding for the need for an additional river crossing for the following reasons:
· It is well known from evidence and experience that Dartford is heavily congested, which not only delays journeys but also has a negative impact on the local and national economy. Dartford is also potentially vulnerable if an additional crossing is built there given the amount of traffic in one location with limited alternatives.
· The proposal for a new crossing at Location C is supported. This seems to be the most suitable location when considering the connections between the M2/A2 in Kent and A13/M25 in Essex to benefit the wider region.
· The proposal for a bored tunnel is supported. This will have less of an environmental impact than a bridge or immersed tunnel, as well as being more aesthetically pleasing for the local area.
The Leader of Brentwood Borough Council who also Chairs the Policy, Finance & Resources Committee, Councillor Louise McKinlay, said: “Highways England proposed preferred route is Route 3 and support for Route 3 will be recommended for approval to members later this month. Although the route will have an impact on the setting of the countryside and Green Belt in South Essex, it appears to provide the shortest route from a crossing that connects with the M2 in Kent straight onto the M25. This seems to be the most sensible way to direct traffic, reducing strain on Dartford and providing new connections with the A13 and areas of growth in the Thames Gateway, such as the London Gateway port and logistics park. It would also provide an economic boost to the area, and to our Borough. The Council is proposing growth in and around Brentwood to meet local needs but we also want to keep our unique local character. Employment growth and new homes in Brentwood Borough would benefit greatly from the improved highway links and business opportunities.
“I have major concerns about the impacts that the published alternative Route 4 would have on the Borough. This route proposes that a new motorway follows the path of the A128 north and connects with the A127 in the Brentwood Borough. Whilst this could increase capacity on the A127 between West Horndon and the M25, it would fundamentally change the nature of the highway and require new links to and from roads that currently have access onto the A127. Route 4 also has potentially profound impacts on the Draft Brentwood Local Development Plan, specifically two proposed strategic sites at each end of the Borough’s A127 Corridor proposed to provide 2,500 new homes and more than 3,000 new jobs between them. The level of upgrade that would be required to both the A127 and M25 junction 29, as well as the high costs involved are further reasons that I will be proposing to the Committee that we object to the alternative option Route 4.
“Whilst we put together our response to Highways England consultation – I encourage our residents and businesses to respond to the consultation too.”
For more information on the Lower Thames Crossing consultation and to have your say please visit www.lower-thames-crossing.co.uk
26/01/2016: LOWER THAMES CROSSING CONSULTATION
A new Thames Crossing consultation is taking place between 26 January and 24th March 2016. The consultation can be found here:
https://highwaysengland.citizenspace.com/cip/lower-thames-crossing-consultation
Note that Route 4 would brush West Horndon via the A127. The remaining routes would also impact our local communities surrounding the village, in particuar, Orsett.
It is extremely important that this information is spread around our community, and as many people as possible respond to the consultation with their views.
We will ensure that information is also put up on our notice boards, and will try to get some paper copies available. We will confirm locations as soon as possible.
07/01/2016: PARISH COUNCILLOR VACANCIES
We currently have two vacancies for Parish Councillors. No qualifications or experience necessary - just enthusiasm! Would you like to make a difference in your community? Do you have some ideas on how to improve the area in which you live? Come and join us on the Parish Council!
For more information or just an informat chat, please contact Cllr Colin Foan (whpc.cllr.colinfoan@gmai.com - 01277 812197), or our Clerk Lynne Farquhar (whpc.parishclerk@gmail.com - 07905416941).
25/09/2015: WEST HORNDON CITIZENSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY
On 24th September, WHPC held the annual West Horndon Citizenship Awards ceremony. We were priviledged to have this year's awards handed out by the Brentwood Deputy Mayor. A very well done to all of this year's award winners, and a big thanks to all of those who attended and made it a special evening for all of those involved.
25/09/2015: WHPC COUNCILLORS RECEIVE ROSPA CERTIFICATES
Earlier this year, 3 WHPC councillors took time out of their day to day to take a ROSPA course in playground safety. Councillors McNicol, Foan and Crowley are now fully qualified to assess and monitor the safety of the playground at West Horndon park. We were priviledged to have the ROSPA certificates handed out by our deputy Mayor last night. A couple of pictures below!
15/06/2015: LDP (LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN) PROCESS - NO NEWS, BUT WORK ONGOING
Despite the work put in by West Horndon residents to respond to both the Strategic Growth Options consultation, and the Dunton Garden Suburb consultation earlier this year, no further progress with regards to their LDP/development plans has been communicated to either the Parish Council or the wider Brentwood Borough residents by Brentwood Borough Council. The timing of the closing of the consultations coincided with the Borough Council election process, and it is understood that the new administration are still getting up to speed with responses and agreeing a path forwards for the LDP.
As such, unfortunately which this is a key issue for West Horndon, and despite the time elapsed since the latest consultation rounds closed, the Parish Council do not have an update for residents at this time. We wanted to flag this to you however, given how important this issue is to local residents and us as a Parish as a whole.
The Parish Council is not however just waiting re-engagement from Brentwood Borough Council. We are actively seeking meetings with key planning officers, and in the meantime we are working on our own sustainability appraisal which should provide us with a clearer view as to what level of development could be truely considered sustainable for West Horndon as a parish. This will enable us as a parish to provide a firm and well informed response to the Borough Council as and when they re-engage on their LDP plans.
11/06/2015: VEHICLE SAFETY REMINDER
The Brentwood area has suffered an increased number of incidents relating to car crime recently, please read the following information to reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
Always shut the doors, windows and sunroof and ensure the car is locked. Never walk away from your car unless you are certain its locked by testing the handle.
Use a steering wheel lock if you have one, they have been around for a long time but are still very effective.
When you are at home don't leave your keys on show. put them in a safe place away from windows and doors.
If possible remove all valuables from the car, if it is not possible to remove them then put them out of sight.
When parking at home park in your garage if you have one, if not then park in a well lit area that has good natural surveillance from neighbouring properties.
When not parking at home try and use a secure car park, preferably monitored or with barriers. Again if its dark park in well lit areas. look for car parks that have the 'Park Mark' sign, these have been accredited as secure car parks by meeting the approved criteria. you can find these car parks by going on their website at: www.parkmark.co.uk
Please also visit www.essex.police.uk/my_neighbourhood.aspx for more information and to find your local officer contact details
14/05/2015: CHANGES TO ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL SUNDAY SAVER BUS FARES
We have been advised that Essex County Council will be increasing the price of its Sunday Saver ticket from Sunday 14th June 2015. The Sunday Saver Day Ticket is a "multi-operator bus ticket" offering unlimited day travel on all qualifying bus services in Essex on a Sunday, except on services operated by TfL and some premium bus routes.
A single adult fare increases from £2.80 to £4.00, single child from £1.50 to £2.00, and family from £8.00 to £10.00.
Information flyer can be found here.
30/04/2015: LOCAL SCHOOL TRANSPORT
West Horndon Parish Council are aware of the fact that many parents of pupils going to Brentwood County High have been informed that they will have to pay for their school transport going forwards. Having spoken to our Essex County Councillor on the matter, we understand that this appears to be an unintended consequence of an Essex wide transport policy introduced last year. This policy sought to limit funded school transport to those pupils who took up the place offered to them at their nearest school. When debated, it was understood that BCHS was the closest school to West Horndon. Based on correspondence with some local parents, it appears that the nearest school has been calculated as a Basildon/Laindon based school.
Given this was not intended to be the case, our Essex County Councillor will be taking the matter up. We (WHPC) will remain in dialogue to ensure that this situation is resolved in a positive manner.
15/04/2015: LOCAL PLANNING APPLICATION DECISIONS
Two planning applications within West Horndon Parish were referred to the Brentwood Borough Council Planning and Development Control Committee held on the 14th April 2015. These applications related to 1) the former Elliots nightclub and petrol station on the A127, and 2) 9 Thorndon Avenue.
WHPC had supported the proposed development on the old Elliots site, noting that whilst it was technically green belt land, it had been laying derelict for c. 30 years. The development plans put forwards were considered to be well thought through, and appropriate for the site. However, the proposal was recommended for refusal by planning officers due to, amongst other things, its location in the green belt and transport links. We are pleased that the BBC Planning and Development Control Committee took a similar view to WHPC and approved the application last night.
With regards to the proposed development at 9 Thorndon Avenue, WHPC had not supported the application when we considered it earlier this year. Whilst the site is oversized versus the standard plots on Thorndon Avenue, WHPC considered the level of development proposed to be excessive, with two rows of houses proposed essentially building in to garden space. The proposed density was not in keeping with the village, and could set a precedent for treatment of other slightly larger plots locally. Whilst planning officers had recommended the application for approval, we are plased that the BBC Planning and Development Control Committee refused the application on similar grounds to WHPC.
We view these decisions as positive for the village and wider parish.
Agenda and webcasts from the committee last night can be found here:
http://brentwood.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=131&MId=189
07/05/14: NEW WEBSITE
Welcome to the new West Horndon Parish website! Please take some time to take a look around, and any feedback would be warmly welcomed by the Communications Group.
Where to find us:
The village of West Horndon is located in the southernmost part of the Borough of Brentwood, with most of the Parish south of the A127 and west of the A128.
