Residents' Association Chairman's Notes - May 2009
Housing Development Issues
Minutes of Residents' Association AGM - October 6th 2008
Minutes of Residents' Association Committee Meeting - October 20th 2008
Minutes of Residents' Association Extraordinary Meeting - June 16th 2008

Warwick District Council
Parish Council
Neighbourhood Watch
Burton Green School
Village Hall News
Hodgetts Lane Womens Institute
MEG Monday Eve Group
Burton Green Congregation
Warwick University Links with the Community

Mine Opposition Group Revival
Oak Trees

Residents' Association Chairman's Notes - May 2009

There is also one change to the Speed Limit Review proposals concerning traffic priority over the disused railway bridge on Cromwell Lane, also detailed below.

And if you feel there is an insufficient police presence in Burton Green, the Police and Neighbourhood Watch section announces that they will be conducting monthly clinics at the Village Hall.

We have not collected voluntary subscriptions for the Bugle for a couple of years now and propose a contribution of £2 with the September edition - please support your Residents’ Association.

Also if you would like to assist in monitoring the speed of traffic through Burton Green, details are below.

Chris Langton

Burton Green Village Speed Limit Review

If there are any objections these should be in writing by 1st May specifying the grounds on which they are made to: Rebecca Alcock, Traffic Projects Group, Warwickshire County Council, PO Box 43, Shire Hall, Warwick, CV34 4SX (01926 414995)

Community Speed Watch

Housing Development Issues In the last edition of the Bugle we outlined the Residents’ Association’s response to the Regional Spatial Strategy Phase Two Revision and the Nathanial Lichfield and Partners Study. The former identifies 33,500 new houses for Coventry and 10,800 for Warwick District over the next 25 years, with the latter study trying to impose a further 10,000 houses on Warwick District. This has now gone to Examination in Public at which the principal defender of the Green Belt will be the Campaign to Protect Rural England with whom your Residents’ Association has been working closely. This will determine the housing numbers incorporated into the Coventry Core Strategy and Warwick District’s Core Strategy. Coventry have already accepted the 33.500 target which is reflected in their Core Strategy (www.coventry.gov.uk/ldf) giving more detail on the ‘where and when’, and which we have until 7th May to respond to. This identifies Greenfield land behind the former Disabled Sports Centre at Tile Hill running up on the west side of Cromwell Lane up to the border with Warwick District which is ‘safeguarded’ for the building of 390 houses - this on top of the 140 to be built on the former Disabled Sports Centre itself. This clearly has implications for the district in terms of support amenities and traffic. Of more worrying significance is that Coventry City Council has declared that there is a 7000 housing shortfall in their plan which cannot be accommodated within their boundaries, and where they would be seeking to ‘annex’ land from neighbouring authorities. If we are to protect Burton Green it is imperative that you make your views known at this consultation stage. We believe that the target level of 33,500 is unrealistic and unachievable and not consistent with demographic trends and the state of the economy - representing a build rate some three and a half times greater than the last ‘free market’ level - and with little evidence of employment opportunities to support this or of funding for infrastructure in transport, schools and medical care. Any incursion into Warwick District in this area would be a major threat to the Green Belt separation between Coventry and Kenilworth and in conflict with the Prime Minister’s stated policy on protection of the Green Belt. To make your views known please respond by 7th May in writing to Team Leader - Development Plans, Floor 3 - Civic Centre 4, Development Plans Team, City Planning, Coventry City Council, Much Park Street, Coventry CV1 2PY (Attn Mr Niall Mc Chesney) or by e-mail to localdevelopmentframework@coventry.gov.uk or via the website above. With regard to the Warwick District Core Strategy, issuing of this is deferred until the end of June when the Examination in Public has concluded. Warwick District vigorously oppose the additional 10,000 task suggested by the Nathanial Lichfield study but may be forced by Central Government on this issue - which would add a housing area about the size of Kenilworth to the existing 10,800 proposed - if this happens we need to be fearful in Burton Green as to where Warwick District decide to build - we await the issue of their Core Strategy and will respond accordingly, as well as to the issue below should anything change. Many of you will also be aware via a leaflet delivered recently by one of the political parties, of a separate but related study commissioned by neighbouring authorities to Coventry. This Coventry Joint Green Belt Study (www.coventry.gov.uk/ldf) recommends that certain parcels of land be retained in the Green Belt and also identifies the least constrained parcels which could be considered by the respective authorities for development to meet long term needs. The conclusion/recommendation with regard to parcel C14c (land bordered by Westwood Heath Road, Cromwell Lane and Red Lane) was as follows “Another strategically important section of the Green Belt located between Coventry and Kenilworth - and due to earlier ribbon development (i.e Burton Green - Ed) one of the narrowest sections of the ‘gap’. Our recommendation is to retain all of C14 within the Green Belt”. With regard to parcel C13b (land bordered by Westwood Heath Road, Crackley Lane, Cryfield Grange Road and the University it states “It is recommended the areas of C13 that lie outside of the University grounds are retained as Green Belt”. That is the current status and things can change! We will continue to carefully monitor the situation and advise on any future actions

Minutes of the Residents' Association AGM October 6th 2008 Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Burton Green Residents’ Association held on October 6th 2008 at the Village Hall. Chairman’s Report The Chairman, Chris Langton, welcomed everyone to the meeting. He explained the focal points for 2008 had been: The Review of Speed Limits and Safer Routes to School Initiative Responding to government long term housing proposals Lobbying of Warwickshire County Council (WCC) on various maintenance issues In 2008, other key issues would be: Conclusion of the Speed Limit Review and Safer Routes to School initiative Further responses to long term housing plans Bolstering the committee which needed two more members Speed Limit Review and Safer Routes to School Initiative The proposals in June 2007 included the reduction in the speed limit to 30mph on Cromwell Lane, Hodgett’s Lane and Hob Lane with traffic calming measures on the straight section of Cromwell Lane. A significant minority (29%) of respondents had objected to “pinch points” on Cromwell Lane. Hence WCC were reluctant to implement changes. This provoked further discussion in the meeting. Cllr John Whitehouse said it was WCC policy that pinch points (or something similar) would be necessary to ensure that the speed limit is self enforcing. Less controversial elements had been implemented in 2008: a pedestrian refuge at the junction of Red Lane and Hob Lane and re-profiling of the junction. Further discussions had been held with the Steering Group which included representatives of the school governors and the Residents’ Association with endorsement from the Parish Council. Two proposals had been put forward by WCC: 1. Speed reduction to 30mph: this would necessitate speed cushions on Cromwell Lane and upgrading of street lighting 2. Retention of 40mph speed limit with vehicle activated sign on Cromwell Lane: A public consultation was being held during October and November including an exhibition of the proposals in the Village Hall. Common to both proposals were: New “entrance gates” Improved signage on yellow backing boards Bridge narrowing with one-way priority on Cromwell Land to make it safer for pedestrians and to “protect” the Hodgett’s Lane junction New bend warning sign on Red Lane 40mph vehicle activated sign on Red Lane Responses to date showed a preference for the second option. Residents were concerned about the inclusion of speed cushions. Attendees at the Annual Meeting were not convinced that changes similar to other parts of the area could not be implemented but councillors present said all measures had to be self enforcing. Coventry’s policy was different from Warwickshire’s. Speeding problems on the bends in Red Lane remained an issue of concern to residents. Cllr Whitehouse said that although he sympathised with residents, budgets were limited to the Safer Routes to School Initiative and the Speed Limit Review. A number of residents felt the introduction of pinch points on the bridge in Cromwell Lane would have a detrimental impact on traffic flow. The final decision would be made by WCC in consultation with the Parish Council and the Residents’ Association. Implementation would be likely in the following financial year (April 2009 onwards). Detailed planning such as the bridge narrowing would need a three month consultation period. Housing Issues The government planned to build 3 million homes nationally over the following 20 years. The Regional Spatial Strategy Preferred Option on housing for the West Midlands had identified10, 800 new houses for Warwick and 33,500 for Coventry. On top of this the government had commissioned a further study to look at even more housing being built. Resulting from this, proposals were to potentially double the housing numbers in Warwick but Coventry would remain unchanged. Forward projections took no account of future policy and likely level of housing demand. The likely outcome would be that builders would “cherry pick” more favourable Greenfield and Shire sites and would not help the regeneration of urban areas. Warwick had already seen substantial growth in housing. The character of Warwick, Kenilworth and Leamington were threatened and traffic congestion had increased. Road and rail improvements were not planned and sewerage systems were inadequate in the long term. Over a quarter of the additional development proposed would be within Green Belt. Cllr Illingworth said the Green Belt should be protected or done away with: there should be no “nibbling at the edges.” Cllr Blacklock said it was inevitable the Green Belt boundaries would change but new Green Belt could be designated. A point was made that Burton Green had no affordable housing for younger people. The Residents’ Association response to housing proposals had focused on local issues: there may be some scope for in-filling in the village ribbon development must be maintained and no cul de sacs created the Green Belt between Coventry and Kenilworth must be preserved growth over the Coventry boundary was unsuitable, particularly in the vicinity of the university where the infrastructure was lacking The Residents’ Association was not aware that any consultation documents had been issued to villagers by Coventry. Village Hall Diane Swindells reported on a busy year for the Village Hall. The deeds had been discovered at Rotherham’s solicitors’’ office in Coventry. The land was registered as owned by Burton Green Village Hall, administered by a committee. Two generous donations during the year (one in memory of Mrs Loraine Horler and the other from the MEG members) had resulted in the provision of a new notice board and a sign outside the hall itself. A fingerpost had also been erected by WCC at the junction of Cromwell Lane and Hodgett’s Lane. The Lottery Awards for All had granted over £7000 which had been used to purchase a hearing loop and sound system. New outward opening front doors had also been installed to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act. The floor in the Green Room had been replaced with more serviceable laminate. Funding from WDC had provided a data projector. There had been a succession of fund-raising events including an art exhibition, garden produce show and Italian night. Lettings to groups and users were flourishing. The Village Hall AGM would be held on November 21st and all were welcome. Police Matters & Neighbourhood Watch A list was provided of minor incidents reported during the previous 12 month period. There were relatively few crimes in the area but residents were urged to be vigilant. Representatives regularly attended the Kenilworth Safer Neighbourhoods meetings. “SmartWater” (a property marking system) had been purchased by 21% of households. Stocks were no longer to be held but could be ordered. County Councillor’s report The Connect2 project which included the Greenway had been successful in its Big Lottery bid. Ensuing discussions had been protracted but Cllr Whitehouse reported that signs were that funds would soon be released to begin work. Some limited work had been carried out but the major work included a bridge over the Coventry Road in Kenilworth; a new track at the back of Woodland Road and the side of Kenilworth Common; and a new track to Warwick University. In all the work would take around 3 years. Part of the scheme involved Network Rail land at the side of Kenilworth Common and at the Greenway exit near Berkswell Station and it had been agreed that licences would be granted. A number of residents had reported problems with being refused entry to the Recycling Centre in Kenilworth when they owned pick up vehicles. Cllr Whitehouse was able to report that limited relaxation of these rules had been agreed. WCC endorsed Burton Green School’s need for a new classroom to replace the sub standard “temporary” classroom which had been in use for many years. Sadly, there was no progress on hopes to purchase land next to the school. On more general WCC matters, it was said that the future year would be financially difficult and savings would have to be made. Service cuts were almost inevitable. A proposal was being made to government regarding the replacement of the Coventry incinerator. Because of the increase in recycling, the use of the incinerator was being reviewed and other technologies considered. District Councillor’s Report Cllr Ann Blacklock said the District Council had no major initiatives. After a shaky start, the recycling system had been tremendously successful and our recycling rate was one of the best in the country. Planning matters were always a WDC concern. Finance would be difficult for the WDC as well as WCC. Cllr Blacklock was spending some time reviewing facilities for 11-15 year olds and it was hoped some support would be available for their activities. Cllr Illingworth added that Council Tax payment was very good. He said that Burton Green as a rural area within an urban ward might have some difficulties but he would monitor this. He emphasised that the university had outline planning permission for expansion but only within agreed boundaries. He was sceptical of the university’s transport plans. Parish Councillor’s Reports The four Burton Green Parish Councillors were Chris Langton, Archie Taylor, Graham Williams and Ian de Worringham. Key issues involving the Parish Council had been Coventry airport where expansion plans had been denied; and traffic and speed issues in Burton Green and Stoneleigh village. Treasurer’s Report The audited accounts were presented and copies were available. It was proposed that the accounts should be accepted. It was felt there was a need to reinstate the collection of subscriptions during 2009. Election of Auditor Peter Tacon was thanked for agreeing to audit the accounts. His re-election as auditor was accepted. Any Other Business and Date of Next Annual General Meeting A resident in Red Lane reported the unexplained removal of a street lamp outside 67a. Cllr Whitehouse agreed to investigate. Thanks were extended to the 40(approx) residents who had attended and to the councillors for their support. The next Annual General Meeting would be held on Monday October 19th 2009 subject to the availability of the Village Hall.

Litter

Warwick District Council

As your local councillors we all will be happy to assist in any way we can and if you have a problem please ring or e-mail us.

Michael Coker

Our Warwickshire County councillor is:
John Whitehouse - Liberal Democrat - 01926 512130 - cllrwhitehouse@warwickshire.gov.uk

Parish Council

Police and Neighbourhood Watch

If you have information to report please contact Warwickshire Police 01926 415000 or call Crime Stoppers 0800 555111. Information on Incidents can be viewed at www.safer-neighbourhoods.co.uk.

There is a ‘Mapping’ website showing crime rates for all areas www.crimemapper.co.uk which shows that for Abbey (Kenilworth) Ward of which we are a part, overall crime has gone up 45.5% in the last 12 months (average 25.7 to 37.3 per month) and burglaries up 33.3% (average 4.1 to 5.3 per month)

For Neighbourhood Watch e-mail alerts please apply to bgra@onetel.com.

Burton Green School

Our New School Library

As the children left for the holidays the builders and decorators moved in. They removed the old sink, a water heater, cupboards and masses of redundant piping. The whole area was redecorated, a new carpet laid and new shelving installed. A beautiful arch window, that was part of the original building, has now become a feature of one wall. It is amazing how different the space now looks! Although not a big area it will enable us to have a dedicated library.

With the decoration complete we commissioned the School’s Library Service to help us audit and organise the stock. Many of our books were very dated and needed replacing and we have drawn up a list of new books that we need to buy. The Friends of Burton Green have done a tremendous job in raising over £5000 to enable us to purchase new stock. Without this money we would not be able to extend the range of books available to the children.

Last week I accompanied the Librarian to a specialist shop in Birmingham to begin the exciting job of buying new books. These should be delivered in the next few weeks and we can then finalise the organisation of the library. We are hoping to have a formal opening of the library later in the term.

The school has it's own website, here: Burton Green School.

Cathy Clarke, Headteacher.

Village Hall News

Fund Raising

Also £350 was raised through a coffee morning and lunch for Macmillan Cancer Support and £340 for Children in Need – Deirdre Vernon thanks everyone for your support.

In August, a fishing competition followed by a ‘fun’ evening at the Peeping Tom raised £3400 in memory of Harry Archer, also for Macmillan – another similar event is planned for this August.

Produce & Pet Show

To book the hall or new meeting room please phone our booking secretary MAXINE VINEY on (01926) 512742 between 5pm and 8pm.

David Line - Chairman (024) 7646 2070

Hodgetts Lane Women's Institute

The WI meets on the second Monday evening of each month at Burton Green Village Hall. For most months a speaker or demonstator is appointed.

The Annual meeting is held in October and the WI Resolutions meeting in May. These business meetings are folllowed by a social. July is Outings month. August is member's month and the Christmas party is held in December.

In addition to these dates members enjoy visits to exhibitions, the theatre and places of interest, craft lessons and events, bowls, darts, rambles, and association with other WIs in the area.

Forthcoming Programme

11 May

Resolutions Evening and Beetle Drive

8 June

Pottery Demonstration and Talk - Penny Varley

13 Jul

Annual Outing

10 Aug

Garden Party

14 Sep

Kitchen Gadgets (incl Cooking Demonstration) - Francis Freeman

12 Oct

AGM

Details from the Secretary: Val Gathercole:  024 7646 0073

MEG Monday Eve Group

Forthcoming Programme

18 May

“The Blackthorn Blossoms” - Family History of three ladies from Kenilworth

22 Jun

Ali Wells - Keeper of History Collections at Herbert Museum and Art Gallery - “Women’s Costumes 1800 - 1979 Tops and Bottoms

27 July

Games Evening and sale of Crystal

28 Sep

Pam Goddard - “Designer Hats for Hire” and sale of jewellery and handbags

Burton Green Congregation

The Burton Green Harvest Service raised £200 for the Iris Ministries Zimpeto orphanage in Mozambique and the Carol Service raised a further £120, specifically to buy toys for the toddlers as there were hardly any when Jerry was there in September. Thanks to all who contributed.

For more information contact: Jerry Marshall, 7 Hodgetts Lane, 024 7669 4819 or visit www.westwoodchurch.co.uk.

Warwick University Links with the Community

Mine Opposition Group Revival

The now defunct Burton Green Mine Opposition Group played an instrumental role in fighting off the proposals, along with a number of other bodies in Berkswell, Balsall Common and Kenilworth. This ‘Federation of Colliery Opposition Groups’ still exists although it has not met for more than a decade. Prompted by the move of the secretary Mike Tracey to Devon the group was reconvened last month.

On the agenda was the continuation of the Federation, or if disbanded the disposal of the £16,000 remaining in the fighting fund. The constitution requires that this be distributed to charities supporting the protection of the Green Belt.

Burton Green was represented by the chairman of the Residents’ Association where we argued strongly for the continuation of the Federation.

In the remote event of future plans to mine this seam (some 20 feet thick) an infrastructure to oppose this would already be in place.

After much discussion, the majority or groups were in favour of continuing. Accordingly some new officers were appointed and a meeting has been convened for 23rd June to review the constitution and possible distribution of some of the funds.

Open Gardens 2007/2009

Janet Stanworth.

A selection of photos of the Open Gardens 2007, taken by Chris Langton, can be seen here: Photos of Open Gardens 2007.

The next Burton Green Open Gardens event is due to take place in the Summer of 2009.

Oak Trees

News from the Burton Green Resident’s Association

We undertake to only use your e-mail address for the distribution of information directly relating to Burton Green and will not, without your approval, supply your address to any other organisation.

Minutes of the Residents' Committee Meeting October 20th 2008 Village Hall David Line reported on behalf of the Village Hall committee. An Awards for All grant had been used to install a hearing loop, hand held and lapel microphones and a CD player. These would be accessed via a combination lock. Outward opening front doors had also been installed. Ann Blacklock said there were still Council grant funds available for small projects. The refurbishment of the kitchen would be the next target. A signpost to the Village Hall had been installed at the junction of Hodgett’s Lane and Cromwell Lane but negotiations were still taking place with Solihull MBC about a sign at the junction of Hodgetts Lane and Waste Lane. A new sign had been erected outside the hall and this had been donated by the Monday Evening Group. An Italian supper and quiz evening would be held on October 25th. Regional Planning Policies for Housing in Coventry Cllr Illingworth was expecting feedback from the working party at the District Council but staff changes had caused delays. Chris had attended meetings of CPRE and a Think Tank had outlined the numbers of houses that should be built after the government had said previous estimates were too low. The increase in the West Midlands was between 25 and 50% but for Warwick DC it was between 50 and 100%. BGRA needed to consider the likely impact on the area and a response would be submitted by December 8th. Ann Blacklock said Coventry was not planning to extend beyond their boundaries and this was good news for the village. Chris would circulate a draft response. Action: Chris Speed Limit Review and Safer routes to School Information on current proposals had been distributed to all households with the Bugle. An exhibition was to be held in the Village Hall on Friday October 24th. Responses needed to be returned by November 14th. A question was raised as to why the speed limit could not be lowered to 30mph near the school even if it remained at 40mph in Cromwell Lane. Cllr Whitehouse said discussions were taking place to reduce speed limits outside all schools to 20mph. The ultimate decision rested with the Warwick Area Committee after it had considered the majority view. The issue would be discussed at the AGM on November 3rd. The level of the road had been raised over the years, particularly in Cromwell Lane and it was asked what could be done about water draining from the road onto residents’ drives. In such cases, it was deemed necessary for residents to install their own drainage. As part of the Safer Routes to School initiative, work had been completed at the top of Red Lane to narrow the junction and install a pedestrian refuge. Cllr Whitehouse would be pleased to receive feedback about the changes. Councillors’ Reports Warwickshire County Council Cllr Whitehouse said the Council was about to take a decision about the long term replacement of Coventry’s incinerator. This decision was being taken in conjunction with Coventry and Solihull and a bid would be made for PFI money for its replacement by 2015. Network Rail had agreed to access to the Greenway cycle path at Berkswell station and alongside Kenilworth Common. Cllr Whitehouse would be interested to hear feedback relating to changes to the bus services in the area. Warwick District Council Cllr Blacklock said WDC matters had recently concerned planning items such as Sustainable Buildings draft documents and a Residential Guide. Other legislation had been introduced to prevent flooding and tarmacing of drives was no longer permitted. Permeable surfaces now had to be installed. Some young people in Burton Green had requested a skate park. Ann Blacklock had investigated this but there was no land available. The Extended Schools Co-ordinator was looking at the possibility of an outreach service at Burton Green Village Hall. The Youth Service might be able to allocate a youth worker on a pilot basis. It was asked who received the planning applications relating to Burton Green: currently, this was handled by Chris and Ian de Worringham through the Parish Council. The new recycling schemes were very successful. Severn Trent was continuing its upgrading work in Kenilworth and Beehive Hill would shortly be closed off. This would impact on Burton Green residents travelling through Kenilworth Cllr Blacklock circulated details of a LEADER project which was asking for suggestions for projects in villages to contribute to community cohesion. Parish Council There was nothing of relevance to Burton Green to report from the Parish Council that had not already been discussed. Police Matters and Neighbourhood Watch Neighbourhood Watch No incidents had been reported except those mentioned in the Bugle. Some Neighbourhood Watch signs needed replacing but it was decided to wait until decisions had been reached about new “gateways” to the village as part of the speed limit review. Supplies of Smartwater had run out but it was decided that if more were needed they would be ordered direct. Treasurer’s Report Archie reported that over £600 remained in the current account but expenses were likely to exceed the £250 received from the Parish Council. This was because of contributions of £75 to the prize money at the Village Produce Show and a £44 towards the purchase of a data projector. Bugle Chris had produced and distributed the most recent edition of the Bugle. It included details of the agenda for the AGM. The next edition would be issued in January and it was agreed to collect subscriptions at that time or the subsequent Spring edition. Action: All Any Other Business Cllr Blacklock said there was an offer from Positive About Young People to assist with community projects. A query was raised about responsibility for the footpath from Hodgetts Lane to the greenway. Subsequent to the meeting it was confirmed that National Grid over whose land it runs had agreed with Solihull MBC that they would repair it and make it safer – though no timing was indicated. Parked cars were causing a hazard at the bottom of Westwood Heath Road. It was believed to be caused by work being carried out at the university and restricting parking places. Date of Next Meeting The next committee meeting would take place at the Village Hall on Monday January 12th 2009 at 7.30p.m. (Subject to availability of the Hall.) Action: Judi

Minutes of Extraordinary Meeting of the Residents' Association June 16th 2008 Present: Chris Langton (Chairman); Judi Hibberd; Janet Hickinbottom; Archie Taylor; Bron Putnam; Janet Stanworth; and John Levett. In attendance: David Line. The meeting had been called to discuss the Options for Growth document issued by Warwick District Council (WDC) and the possible impact of various options on the village of Burton Green. The government believed the current housing stock was insufficient to support the growth in population up to 2026. All councils had to draw up plans to address the shortage. Coventry’s plans were not yet available but WDC’s had been published for consultation and responses were to be submitted by July 10th 2008. Chris had been invited by Cllr George Illingworth to a presentation to Kenilworth Town Council and he felt that all residents needed to be aware of the options and the consultation process. As a result, the meeting had been called to highlight the issues which would then be placed in the forthcoming edition of the Bugle with a request to residents to make a response. Chris showed a slide from the presentation which said: Up to 1976 WDC had built 40,000 houses Between 1976 and 2006 WDC had built 20,000 houses Between 2006 and 2026 it was anticipated WDC would build 10,800 houses Of theses 10800, 2650 had already been built or received planning consent; 5,400 were to be built on brownfield sites; and 2,700 would be needed on greenfield sites. The options in the booklet were considered in turn: Option 1: Focus growth in and around Warwick, Leamington and Whitnash Option 2: Focus growth along the A46 corridor Option 3: Balance growth in and around the four towns Option 4: Disperse growth across the district including within villages Option 5: Direct growth immediately to the south of Coventry It was decided that the following issues should be raised: There was opposition to changing significantly the nature of the village There was opposition to breaking ribbon development (by the introduction of cul de sac type developments, for example) Infilling of ribbon development might be appropriate There is a need to resist erosion of the Green Belt between Coventry and Kenilworth A balance of affordable and executive housing is needed The current road infrastructure does not support a significant increase in housing in our area As a result of these discussions it was decided that Options 1 and 3 might be most acceptable but definitely not Options 4 and 5. there were questions regarding the suitability of aspects of Option 2. There was to be an exhibition of the Options at Cannon Park on Friday June 20th. All of this information would be included in an article in the Bugle which would be distributed on Wednesday June 18th. Residents would be urged to make a response. Chris would draft a formal letter on behalf of the BGRA and the content of this would be informed by any further responses notified by residents. Action: Chris Date of Next Meeting: The next committee meeting would take place at the Village Hall on Tuesday September 30th 2008 at 7.30p.m.

Safer Routes to Schools & Village Speed Limit Review Proposal Warwickshire County Council is proposing to implement traffic management measures in Burton Green as part of the Safer Routes to Schools initiative and Village Speed Limit Review.  The Safer Routes to Schools initiative encourages pupils to walk or cycle to school by making their routes safer and more convenient.  The Village Speed Limit Review seeks to introduce sustainable speed limits in villages. BGRA Response Following discussions with residents and debate at our Committee meeting of 20th June 2007 we have the following comments: Cromwell Lane We support the proposed reduction in the speed limit to 30 mph. The proposed introduction of road narrowing features has raised particular concerns: We understand that their introduction is principally in order to control the flow of large volumes of traffic. However during the two rush hour periods traffic tends to be self regulating due to the volume and the congestion caused by vehicles turning into Westwood Heath Road. Speeding is not a problem during these periods, rather outside them when the introduction of ‘chicanes’ will be less effective and potentially encourage speeding. Concerns have also been raised that it will extend the congestion along the whole length of the road making access from drives more difficult during the rush hour periods. We understand the logic for only placing pinch points on the straight part of Cromwell Lane. However the rest of Cromwell Lane cannot therefore be ‘self policing’ in the same way and the frustration of delays at the pinch points may result in motorists driving faster on the other sections. This straight stretch of road thankfully has a good safety record in terms of personal injury accidents. There are concerns that the introduction of pinch points will lead to an increase in accidents, particularly if the remaining road space is just enough for two vehicles to squeeze by. We already see this situation when visitors and delivery vehicles park half on the road and half on the pavement. A major point arising from the last Village Appraisal conducted in 2001 was the maintenance of Burton Green as a semi rural area. Any requirement for increased lighting to support the road narrowing features and an increase in light pollution would not generally be welcomed. We are aware of speed reductions introduced in other Villages which have been effective without traffic calming measures. The Residents’ Association would be prepared to support reinforcement of the new speed limit by developing a rota for use of the SID (Speed Indicator Device) during the initial months after the change. Cyclists would potentially be more exposed in negotiating pinch points which is counterproductive in encouraging more children to cycle to school. Views have been expressed suggesting that the speed limit reduction be implemented without engineering measures – but to return to this issue if necessary. Hodgetts Lane We support the proposed reduction in the speed limit to 30 mph. A Village Gateway similar to that proposed for Red Lane is very necessary on Hodgetts Lane as there are no other indicators (such as a view of houses) to signal to drivers that they are entering a residential area. Cromwell Lane/Red Lane Junction We fully support the changes to the junction profile and the introduction of a central pedestrian refuge. Improvement of the existing footway to the school by cutting back vegetation and earth banks also needs to apply to the upper parts of Red Lane and the bends in particular. Red Lane We support the retention of 40 mph on Red Lane, particularly the lower straight section which has a rural feel with housing limited to one side. The introduction of Speed Activated flashing signs on this straight stretch would act as a much needed reminder to drivers. We have received suggestions that the 30 mph ‘protection’ limit change point on Red Lane should be extended to include the section of bends near the top with the change point where the current Burton Green sign is. There is a logic to this in that it is almost impossible to negotiate the bends at much over 30 mph and this stretch of road would be ‘self policing’ in this respect. Almost all of the personal injury accidents including one fatality have occurred on the bends at the top of Red Lane. Improvements to road markings and warning signs are very necessary particularly for drivers unfamiliar with the road. It is known locally as the ‘Cresta Run’ due to its adverse cambers and slippery surface when wet. The banks on the outside of the bends when coming ‘down’ Red Lane from the Cromwell Lane end invariably end in roll-over accidents. If walls/barriers instead of banks were in place this may result in more vehicle damage but reduced injuries. Also a speed activated sign warning of dangerous bends on the downward stretch may act successfully in warning those unfamiliar with the road. We would support improvements to 40 mph repeater signage elsewhere on Red Lane.

If anyone would like any of the material on this page amended,
or new material added, please E-mail John Webb