8th April
Declining English wetland ‘is poor advert for UK’
A declining English wetland will embarrass the UK government at November’s UN
climate conference, campaigners say.
LONDON, 23 March, 2021− The
area around Chichester Harbour on Britain’s south coast overlooks the English
Channel. Famed as a beauty spot, it is a draw for holiday-makers from the
crowded towns and cities of southern Britain. It is also one of the UK’s key
habitats for many bird species and for endangered mammals such as water voles.
But the condition of this declining English wetland is stirring concern.
Coastal wetlands are not only important for wildlife and tourism,
conservationists argue. They are one of nature’s most efficient ecosystems for
absorbing carbon dioxide, and among
the best forms of coastal protection,
increasingly recognised for making low-lying areas more resilient and adaptable
to sea level rise.
A report by researchers at the University of Cambridge, UK, published in the
journal Nature
Sustainability,
spells out how the value of natural wetlands far exceeds that of managed or
farmed land.
The low-lying coastal plain surrounding the
ancient Roman city of Chichester is
one of the UK areas most vulnerable to sea level rise, increased storminess and
intense rainfall.
“The
sad plight of Chichester’s wetlands is an embarrassment for the government as it
prepares to host COP-26, the UN’s annual climate conference”
It has done pioneering work in climate change mitigation and adaptation,
including protecting the Medmerry Reserve wetlands, Europe’s largest coastal
realignment scheme
when it opened in 2013. The Harbour contains the largest salt marsh on the south
coast, but nearly half of it has been lost since 1970.
But now local people charge the government with neglecting their efforts to
increase the area’s resilience. Libby Alexander founded the Save
our South Coast Alliance (SOSCA).
She says: “The sad plight of Chichester’s wetlands is an embarrassment for the
government as it prepares to host COP-26, the UN’s annual climate conference,
due to be held this year in Glasgow in November.” Nor is the physical condition
of the Harbour her only concern.
“The government continues to preach to us and the rest of the world about
climate change and the environment”, she says, “but practices an entirely
different agenda. It is driving forward a building programme which is
endangering the future of some of the country’s most important wetlands.”
Unfavourable condition
A report in the
Guardian newspaper described
the fear of many local people at “the threat of ‘rural sprawl’ creating new
landscapes … the ‘suburbanisation’ of the countryside”, resulting from the
government’s plans for changes to England’s planning system.
SOSCA says the threats it faces from the government’s drive for more
housebuilding in south-east England include 12,650 unnecessary new homes across
the coastal plain with the strong possibility of many more − “the wrong houses
in the wrong places” − which will inevitably lead to extensive and irreversible
damage through pollution and flooding. It says Chichester is being forced by the
government to build far more new houses than it can safely accommodate.
Residents say a real threat is the untreated sewage that is pumped into the
harbour, for which the local water company, Southern Water, has been penalised. It
was fined £126 million in 2019 for spills of waste water into the environment from
its sewage plants and for deliberately misreporting its performance. A great
number of these discharges went into Chichester Harbour. The Environment Agency
is reported to have launched a criminal investigation into the case.
Chichester Harbour Trust says
not enough is being done to improve water quality in the Harbour. Its chairman,
John Nelson, said: “We all need to force the regulators to take immediate action
before we have an environmental and public health catastrophe.”
In January this year the
Chichester Observer reported that
over the 2020 Christmas period there were uninterrupted sewage discharges into
Chichester Harbour for six days. Mr Nelson said: “Given Southern Water’s record
over the Christmas period the time has come to implement radical change. The
Trust is calling on the regulatory body Ofwat to
use its legislative powers to put Southern Water into special administration in
order to avoid an environmental catastrophe.”
Natural England is the government’s official environment adviser. It has
published a
new and authoritative report which
describes Chichester Harbour, globally important for migratory birds, as now
being in an “unfavourable and declining” condition, because of increasing
development and rising sea levels.
Serious climate change adaptation and mitigation needs to be factored into the
planning process immediately, says SOSCA. “Ironically, the UK government is
promoting global coastal wetland conservation through its Blue
Forests Initiative but
failing to support the efforts of its own citizens”, said Libby Alexander. −
Climate News Network
Climate News Network
March
23rd, 2021, by Carolyn Cobbold
1st April
GOLD Democracy Award for Bourne Community
College
We have been awarded Gold status by West Sussex County Council for our
exceptional engagement in Youth Cabinet elections. Two of our students,
Katarina Hill (Year 9) and Kieran Turnbull (Year 8), were elected to represent
Southbourne on the
West Sussex Youth Cabinet. They were privileged to take part recently in this
year’s Virtual Ceremony with all the Award Winners and guest speaker, Tim
Loughton MP.
Katarina has been involved in leading webinars about racial inequalities and
political discourse. She is looking forward to upcoming 'Seas and Coasts' work.
Kieran has been running free online quizzes to boost people’s mental health as
part of the Mental Health Campaign.
This initiative in local democracy has enabled us to promote Article 12 of UNCRC
where adults have a duty to ensure that young people are listened to seriously
on matters that affect them.
Mr Harper, Teacher of RE,
i/c Student Voice and
Student Leadership
29th March
Hamper raises £600 for the Bring Joy Foundation
Local at-home care company, Home Instead Havant, is over the moon to have beaten
the Bring Joy Foundation’s ‘Challenge 500’ of raising £500, by raising an
amazing £600 for the charity!
£1 tickets were purchased to be in with the chance of winning a hamper full of
more than 40 goodies. The money raised for the Bring Joy Foundation will help
fund local community groups that enhance and enrich the lives of seniors by
keeping them fit, active, healthy and more importantly, connected and
contributing to their local communities.
Mark Gettinby, owner of Home Instead Havant, commented on the fundraising
challenge: “Our elderly community has had a really tough time recently. Most, if
not all, have been self-isolating due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left
some feeling lonely and isolated because they have not been able to interact
with other people, especially their loved ones, in the ways that they would
normally. Now, more than ever, we need to ensure our elderly loved ones are
protected and connected. 
“The Bring Joy Foundation brings people safely together, whether that is in person or through the use of connective technology to re-establish those vital personal connections that make us all smile and help us to remember who we are.”
Mark continued: “We’d like to thank our office team and caregivers for donating
goodies for the hamper, and to everyone who purchased a ticket, or two, to win
the hamper. Congratulations to Hilary and Paul, the winners of the hamper. They
were absolutely delighted with their win. They enjoyed some of the array of 40
goodies, however the majority they passed on to their local church for careful
distribution to local families in need. Wonderful!”
To find out more about Home Instead Havant and the services they offer, please call 02394 249683 or visit https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/havant/
23rd March
Emsworth Artists offer online show
The Emsworth Artists spring art exhibition runs online from March 27-April 10
offering a range of delights.
Spokeswoman Jan Copsey said: “Having had an extremely successful lockdown
exhibition in the summer last year and due to the possibility of further
restrictions and keeping everyone safe for the beginning of this year, we have
decided to stage a spring online art exhibition.
“Normally we have our exhibition over the August Bank Holiday but due to the
Emsworth Art Trail hopefully being held at the beginning of September, we are
moving our summer exhibition to the spring enabling as many artists as possible
to enter online.
“We are expecting more than 20 artists to participate meaning an exhibition of
at least 100 artworks.
“Each artist can submit up to five entries and any purchases that are desired
should be done directly through the artist. Each artist has a page dedicated to
their work with all their contact details. This worked very well for both
artists and purchasers last year. We are suggesting – also as last time – that a
voluntary donation can be made to the Community Centre by any artist who sells
their work, thus enabling us to continue our support for them at this difficult
time. To access the exhibition, log on to our website www.emsworthartists.org.uk
and then click on Exhibition.”
Chichester Observer 19th March 2021
18th March
A local environmental group is calling on national
authorities to step up and protect the River Ems from local water companies’
plans.
The Ems, a rare chalk stream, is threatened by the
amount of water taken from its underground sources by Portsmouth Water (PW).
The Friends of the Ems group (FOTE) sees the planned
Havant Thicket reservoir as an opportunity for PW to reduce pressure on the
river and help it regain a proper flow.
But the company has done a deal
which would mean that supplies would be piped out of the local area and used by
Southern Water (SW) instead.
Now FOTE is calling on the national water industry
regulator Ofwat and the Environment Agency to act.
A FOTE spokesperson said: “The
proposal for a reservoir at Havant Thicket gave us hope that the ability to
capture and store new water would enable a reduction in the amount taken from
the sources of the Ems.
“But it looks like none of
the reservoir supply will be used to help our river. Instead,
PW and SW have signed an agreement proposing a
transfer of 60m litres per day from the local area. There is a proposal to
convert seawater to drinking water using a plant at Fawley, which we support.
But if this does not go ahead, the amount transferred could increase to 115m
litres per day.
“The Ems, with its trout and water voles and
kingfishers, is in crisis. The effects of the water being taken by PW are
becoming more and more apparent in the summer and early autumn, when flows drop
and sections dry up altogether.
“The evidence of damage to the Ems, which has been
known for years, should be acted upon. This transfer of water out of this area
should not be allowed until steps have been taken to ensure proper flow in the
Ems. And Havant Thicket should not be a missed opportunity. Further progress on
the reservoir plan should only be permitted on condition that watercourses like
the Ems are protected and restored.
“We acknowledge the need to
maintain a public water supply in the face of population growth and climate
change. But this cannot be at the further expense of fragile habitats, and the
plants and animals they support.”
The Ems flows through the
South Downs national park in West Sussex, near the Hampshire border, and into
Chichester Harbour at Emsworth. FOTE is part of Greening Westbourne, a campaign
group in Westbourne.
Greening Westbourne has been supporting a proposal by Chichester District
Council to make the area along the Ems a designated ‘wildlife corridor’ because
of its environmental importance.
See also:
Rescue plan launched for river at “cliff edge”
Evidence shows damage to River Ems
9th March
Government launches 'Right to Regenerate'
consultation Fast
responses please!
The Government is asking for speedy feedback on its plans to make it easier for
communities to buy underused land and derelict buildings for affordable housing
and other community spaces.
This consultation closes on 13 March 2021. More details on
The ‘Right to Regenerate’ proposals put forward:
·
Proposals for the public to have first right of refusal to purchase underused
land
·
Land to be sold by default, unless compelling reason not to
·
Making it easier for the public to transform vacant land and derelict buildings
into homes or community spaces
Emsworth CLT would like to see a ‘right of first refusal’ for Community Land
Trusts, other properly constituted community and charitable organisations, and
for individuals or associations of individuals bringing forward self and
custom-build housing proposals. This would align the policy with the
Government’s ambition to diversify the housebuilding industry through these
approaches, as stated for example in the Planning White Paper.
It is particularly important that Community Land Trusts enjoy this right because
the statutory definition of the CLT (in s79 of the Housing and Regeneration Act
2008) expressly requires that they then use the assets to further the social,
economic and environmental wellbeing of the community. This further aligns the
Right to Regenerate with the National Planning Policy Framework and the HM
Treasury Green Book, and locks these objectives into the asset in perpetuity.
Further information from Maggie Gebbett 01243 699517 or
maggie_gebbett@yahoo.co.uk
5th March
Future plans for Emsworth from Havant Borough Council
Havant BC has recently submitted its finalised Local Plan for inspection by the
Planning Inspectorate on behalf of the Secretary of State. This extensive work
provides comprehensive information on how HBC plans to manage planning in the
borough, particularly the building of new homes to 2037.
If the Plan is agreed it provides clear guidance for the work of HBC planners as
well as outlining information on future developments.
The lengthy document includes a section on Emsworth’s development sites. Page
229 onwards covers plans for new housing in Emsworth focusing on key sites. The
largest of these wholly within Emsworth is at Long Copse Lane. It currently has
260 new dwellings listed as possible. However, there is still opposition from
many residents to the inclusion of this site, as they consider it wholly
unsuitable for development.
Several other sites are mentioned with the number of new homes. Southleigh is
the largest potential development in the whole borough with possibly more than
2,000 new homes built eventually and 1,200 of these planned for completion in
the next 15 years. Only a small corner of the Southleigh site is within Emsworth
ward, but the development will have a major impact on Emsworth as the nearest
centre for people moving in there.
The Emsworth Community Land Trust will make use of the Local Plan and be active
in checking that there are the appropriate number of affordable homes included.
ECLT will also work to encourage and aid any community developments. A section
on Affordable Housing can be found from page 183 in HBC’s Local Plan.
Another important key document is the Emsworth Neighbourhood Plan (ENP), put
together by the Emsworth Forum. The Emsworth Neighbourhood Plan has been
accepted by an Independent Inspector, and accepted by Havant Borough Council,
being given ‘significant weight’ in planning matters by the Planning Department.
A separate public vote is organised for the Emsworth Plan on 8th July 2021.
The HBC Local Plan can be viewed online HERE
The Emsworth Neighbourhood Plan can be viewed online HERE
Emsworth Community Land
Trust 4th March 2021
See also: Save Long Copse Lane Campaign: https://www.savelongcopselane.org.uk
4th March
Financial support granted for Emsworth
YMCA youth & community centre plan
In the CLT housing and community needs survey, almost three quarters of
respondents said that facilities for young people in Emsworth were inadequate.
Also, with the growth in housing there is a need for good quality childcare to
complement the existing provision.
The CLT has been working with the YMCA and Havant Council to see how we can
respond to these needs. Survey work is currently being undertaken with the wider
community to see what provision can be made and a decision will be made in the
spring as to the viability and design of a new centre.
We are delighted to say that Havant Borough Council (HBC) has earmarked £200,000
towards the building of a new Early Years, Youth and Community Centre on the
north end of New Brighton Road, Emsworth. When built, the centre will provide a
focal point for the local area and provide much needed childcare, youth services
as well as space for the community to come together. The YMCA is leading on the
plans and currently gathering feedback from local people on their aspirations
for the centre. The CIL fund is administered by local councillors who annually
examine many applications for a grant.
The plans for the centre can be found online via YMCA’s website
www.ymca-fg.org/emsworth. This
includes details of how the building might look, the usage of the centre and an
opportunity to engage in the local consultation. Once all the views have been
examined, the plans will be amended to take notice of particular requests.
The project is led by YMCA who run a network of similar community places across
Hampshire. They use the spaces for nursery care as well as a place for people of
all ages to come together and build community. In Emsworth the YMCA is working
in close partnership with a number of local organisations including Emsworth
Community Land Trust, Emsworth Residents Association and Havant Borough Council
to ensure they understand local demands and services can be dovetailed together.
The recent CIL money allocated towards the project is a major contribution
towards the total project costs of £1.5mn. Fundraising plans are in place to
raise the balance of the funds, and please do
contact emsworth@ymca-fg.org if
you want to get more involved in being part of this exciting project.
Emsworth Community Land
Trust 3rd March 2021
3rd March
Emsworth's New Surgery to Open in May
The Emsworth Community Land Trust worked closely with many Emsworth groups under
the banner ‘Emsworth United’. And, together with local politicians, we now have
the new GP surgery for Emsworth welcoming its first patients in early May.
It is incredible how the community working together can make things happen. The
partnership of the community with Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group and the
local surgery means that Emsworth can now offer a high quality building for all
its patients.
Sara Tiller, managing director of NHS South Eastern Hampshire Clinical
Commissioning Group, said: “We share everyone’s excitement at what will be a
terrific new health facility for people in the Emsworth area. “The local
community has been involved every step of the way in helping to decide the best
location for the facility and in the planning to help make this development a
reality. “Although the cottage hospital had been closed for several years, it is
held very dear to many people’s hearts – and its memory and contribution to
health over the decades will live on in the new surgery, where parts of the old
building have been lovingly retained and professionally restored by the
contractors. “
The Emsworth Community Land Trust would like to thank all those involved in the
re-development of the cottage hospital into a new state of the art surgery. A
fantastic achievement by all.
Emsworth Community Land
Trust 3rd March 2021
26th February
Emsworth is amongst the Communities to benefit from the Community Infrastructure
Levy
Communities across the borough of Havant will benefit from thousands of pounds
in funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
It was agreed at a recent Havant Borough Council Full Council meeting that 12 of
the projects who had bid for funding through the CIL Neighbourhood Portion
bidding process, held in the summer of 2020, would receive funds.
Developers pay the levy when they build in the borough enabling the council to
invest in infrastructure projects such as schools, transport links, open spaces
and recreational facilities.
The ‘neighbourhood portion’ makes up 15% of the money collected. Each year
groups and organisations can bid for a share to fund projects to benefit the
local community.
Councillor Leah Turner, Cabinet Lead for Coastal Communities at Havant Borough
Council, said: “Since introducing CIL in 2015 many local communities across the
borough have benefitted from millions of pounds of investment in hundreds of
projects.
“This year was no exception and we are contributing funding to a dozen projects
across the borough, which will improve the lives of residents.”
The council agreed £438,330 of CIL funding in February 2021 to support the
following projects:
•
Age Concern Hayling Island building renovations - £6,000
•
Surgery fit out upgrade Emsworth
Surgery Patient Participation Group - £12,200
•
Enhanced access for people with disabilities at 3rd Hayling Scout Group -
£8,000
•
YMCA Emsworth, Redlands Grange
- £200,000
•
Acorn Community Centre extension - Wecock Community Association -£87,880
•
Elstead Gardens to Ladybridge Road path (PAWARA) - £11,950
•
Artificial cricket pitch at Bidbury Mead, Bedhampton Mariners Cricket
Club - £5,460
•
Citizens Advice Centre and Help Hub - £55,000
•
HAMESH Men’s Shed relocation and expansion - £15,000
•
Energy efficiency improvements at The Spring Arts Centre - £32,050
•
Refurbishment of conservatory and lounge at Domestic Abuse Refuge -
£2,720
•
Widbrook Utd - Bartons Green store room - £2,050
To find out more about how the council collects and allocates funds from
developers visit:
www.havant.gov.uk/planning-policy/community-infrastructure-levy-cil
25th February
A coronavirus testing
centre has opened in Havant for people who must leave home to work.
The centre,
in Havant Library, in the Meridian Centre, opened on Wednesday 24 February,
giving workers the chance to take regular tests for coronavirus.
The testing centre is one of 11 to be
introduced across county and will run for six weeks.
Arranged by
appointment, the tests are aimed at residents who travel regularly outside their
home for work,
who work for businesses with fewer than 50 employees and
who are not covered by an existing workplace testing scheme.
Around one
in three people with coronavirus display no symptoms. The tests will
help prevent transmission by asymptomatic carriers.
Results are
not given on-site, instead they are
fed into the NHS Test and Trace system and then passed on to the individual later
in the day.
The centre
will be open from Monday
to Friday, 9.30am-5pm (last appointment at 4.30pm) On
Saturdays, appointments begin at 9.30am and final appointments are available
from 4.30pm. Free
parking will be available at Bulbeck Road Car Park.
The centre
is being delivered in partnership by
the Hampshire
County Council and the Department of Health and Social Care.
Cllr Michael Wilson, HBC Leader, said: "The
testing centre will give Havant residents the chance to go to work safe in the
knowledge they are not unwittingly carrying coronavirus.
“It is
another crucial blow in
the fight against the virus and another step towards us reclaiming our lives.”
How rapid
asymptomatic testing works
Tests can be booked online 24 hours in advance through Havant Borough Council's website or on Hampshire County Council’s website and appointments should take no more than 30 minutes.
Anyone who cannot book
online should contact Havant Borough Council, who will be able to book a test on
your behalf. You will be asked not to eat anything for 30 minutes
prior to your test.
You will take a lateral flow test, which involves a self-administered swab of the nose and throat, under the guidance of trained staff.Results will be confirmed after leaving the testing site by text message sent direct to your mobile (or to a nominated mobile phone belonging to a family member or friend, if you do not have your own). You will be invited to return for testing every three to five days throughout the six-week programme. Anyone receiving a positive test result will need to follow self-isolation guidance but will not need to book a follow-up test.
For
more information go to www.havant.gov.uk/get-test-workers-without-symptoms or phone 01730
234110.
24th February
Latest proposals for ‘two-way cycle track’ between Emsworth and
Chichester divide opinion
A campaign group has claimed that new plans for walking and cycling provision on
the A259 between Emsworth and Chichester will save lives.
This comes despite some scepticism from residents after proposals were revealed
to narrow a road in Emsworth, to make way for a ‘shared use pavement’, and to
relocate a Southbourne bus stop, to allow a narrow pavement to be used as a
two-way cycle-track.
The scheme, developed
by Highways England in
collaboration with West Sussex County Council and Chichester District Council in
June last year, would see a seven-mile long off-road route link Chichester and
Emsworth.
Following virtual workshops earlier this month, residents were told by Highways
England that the proposed improvement scheme ‘will provide safe route for both
pedestrians and cyclists’.
Jeremy Board, founder of the Gina’s Cycle Path Group, said: “We predict that the
new cycle path proposal from Highways England will prevent 147 injuries, ranging
from slight to serious, in the next ten years.
“These are not just numbers, these are real people, our neighbours, friends,
family, our loved ones who will be spared from injury, who will be protected for
generations to come. We would ask everyone to please say yes to safety.”
However, the proposals have not won over everyone.
Andrew Gould, secretary of Chichester and District Cycle Forum, said
representatives were ‘shocked to find’ that the plans, drawn up locally, for
segregated continuous cycle lanes on both sides of the road, running all the way
from the A27 underpass in Fishbourne to the roundabout in Emsworth, were
rejected.
He said: “Instead, the latest Highways England proposals mean that the vast
majority of it would be a shared cycle/pedestrian path.
“This is despite the fact that a shared cycle/pedestrian path in an urban
environment is against all the latest government guidelines. They are unpopular
with pedestrians and cyclists alike, and are often extremely dangerous where
there are hidden exits from driveways.”
Mark Record, from Chi Cycle, said the scheme would be a ‘huge waste of money’.
He added: “Of particular concern is the inconvenience that two way cycle traffic
will inflict on people who are elderly, with sensory impairment, mobility
disability, and families with children.”
Have
you read?: Villagers’
anger at proposals to make path ‘two-way cycle track’
Regular commuter Bryan Hodges agreed. He said: “We will end up with an expensive
waste of time that will make things more dangerous and won’t even be used by
most people.
“There is no way that I, or 90 per cent of the other cyclists I see on a daily
basis will; stop and give way at all side roads; cycle on the pavement; cross
the A259 twice; cycle against the flow of oncoming traffic.”
City and district councillor Sarah Sharp said ‘it isn’t good enough’ to put in
changes that ‘leave people cycling on the road or pedestrians worried about
their safety’.
She added: “Getting sustainable infrastructure in place to enable more people to
walk and cycle in safety is absolutely essential.
“We need to embrace the latest rules set out by the Government to deliver high
quality infrastructure - and prioritize getting safe, segregated cycle routes.”
A Highways England spokesperson said ‘we care about everyone who uses our road
network’, adding: “Improved cycling and walking opportunities have obvious
benefits for health, safety and the wider environment.
“Space is limited here, and we’ve worked with local authority partners on a
design that provides the most benefits within the space available, taking into
account the existing characteristics of the road layout and the village/rural
setting.”
Mr Board said the new proposals have ‘not been designed to make life more
difficult’.
He added: “We know and respect that drivers cycle and cyclists drive. We know
local drivers care deeply about safety, we believe we will all enjoy cycling the
new safe cycle path together.”
Chichester Observer
17th February 2-21
10th February
North Street Road Closure
A section of North Street, Emsworth, will be closed from Thursday 11th Feb - 2nd March for to complete bridge strengthening works.
Alternative route: via Horndean Rd, Southleigh Rd, Emsworth Rd, A259 Havant Rd, B2148 North St and vice versa.
1st February
Freddie Carr's message for Bourne Community College Students
We were delighted to receive a lovely, motivational message all the way from New
Zealand to the students of Bourne Community College from Freddie Carr, a member
of Ben Ainslie's Team INEOS UK - The British contender for the Americas Cup (the
Formula 1 of sailing). Freddie, who lives with his family in Emsworth, has been
a regular visitor to our school where he has given inspirational Assemblies to
our students. Messages such as these, really do spur the students on especially
during such a strange period of their of their schooling.
schooling.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAFZEckf2ds&feature=youtu.be
Yvonne Watkins,Headteacher
Covid Testing at the Bourne
As part of our new normal at Bourne Community College, we are operating a highly
successful testing programme twice a week for all staff and returning
students. A big thank you to our testing team who have done a brilliant job in
setting this up and running it so efficiently.
24th January
Youth and community centre planned in North Emsworth
YMCA Emsworth is a potential new nursery, youth and community centre for
Northern Emsworth. Located within Redlands Grange, the building would occupy
designated community land and provide a hub for local activity and a place where
people of all ages can come together and belong. Offering youth facilities, a
childcare nursery and community programmes, the building will provide vital
services to the area and foster community life.
YMCA is working in partnership with HBC,
ECLT and a number of local community and Church groups on this project.
If you have small children who need nursery care or youngsters who want to find
places to meet and get-together you can have a good look on what is planned –
the site, building, outdoor play area and other details. The location is at the
north end of New Brighton Road using an open space earmarked for community usage
during the building of Redlands Grange housing.
A feasibility study is now underway to consider the design, community views and funding for the centre. The feasibility study will help to determine building design and gather views and feedback as well as understand the funding options. Depending upon the outcome of these aspects, a decision will be made by Easter 2021 regarding whether to proceed with the centre. If a positive decision were to be taken, the next step would be to secure planning permission, appoint contractors and commence construction. The earliest date a centre would be available would be Spring 2023.
| View the initial Plans | ||
| Site Plan | Floor Plan | Elevations |
To have your say, please complete the short online
survey or alternatively, post your hard copy questionnaire into
the collection box at Co-op on Southleigh Road. Complete before 1st March 2021
to be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win £30 gift vouchers to spend
at the Co-op!
YMCA 23rd January
23rd January
After
years of preparation based on deep and careful research, the Emsworth
Neighbourhood Plan was drawn up by Emsworth Forum at various meetings held to
keep local people informed. This was a long and difficult process but those who
devoted so much time and effort to the publication had expected a final vote on
it shortly. A copy of the document can be read
HERE
This Neighbourhood Plan was due to be voted on in a final Referendum held at the
same time as the election of local councillors firstly in in 2020, then delayed
by a year to be voted on in the coming months in 2021. With the Covid situation
the May election 2021 is now likely to be delayed further and consequently the
Emsworth Local Plan will not be up for a vote either at that time. This is an
on-going concern particularly for those who had worked tirelessly to get the
Neighbourhood Plan finalised. The Government has issued guidance to local
councils that allow Neighbourhood Plans affected by the postponement to be given
‘significant weight’ in decision making ahead of the referendum taking place.
The Emsworth Neighbourhood Plan gives significant guidance and advice to those
engaged in planning applications about what is, and is not, likely to be
acceptable to Havant Borough Council planners. Despite countless surveys and
interviews completed to get the Plan document finalised, it is currently another
problem due to the Covid crisis. Let’s hope it survives this setback and
celebrates life support before too long.
Emsworth CLT
21st January
23rd January
Covid jabs in Emsworth
A large team of NHS staff and at least 30 volunteers helped more than 600 people
a day, aged 70+, to receive their first jab in Emsworth. The spacious Baptist
Church is the venue. More than 5,000 local people had received jabs
by mid-January.
The Oxford vaccine has just arrived so delivery of jabs will now go up to 1,200
a day receiving injections. The centre is currently open for three days a week.
Once supplies of vaccine are regular, there will be an on-going delivery of the
programme to those who are contacted (by email or phone) by their surgery to
alert them to their appointment.
Attending for an injection is well managed. On arrival, after giving in
name etc, patients are indoors and l called to the main door to enter the
spacious hall. Inside the hall there are at least 6 stations manned by
those with the vials of vaccine. They check identity and explain what will
happen and administer the jab. Each recipient receives a small card with a
record of the type of jab given with the date and batch number.
Any chairs used are cleaned immediately after use and all staff volunteers are
wearing badges, masks and yellow jackets.
Thanks and congratulations to all those who have swung into action to deliver
this efficient programme so effectively. It is much appreciated that
Emsworth’s programme is one of the leaders of this nationwide delivery of
injections.
Emsworth CLT
21st January
15th January
Emsworth Community Land Trust looking to the future
The November AGM for ECLT (on Zoom)
outlined the priorities for its plans for next year. High on the agenda is
continued work with YMCA who are keen to lead the building of the site for
nursery and youth provision on the plot north of Brighton Road. Hopefully, as
the Covid lock down reduces in 2021, ECLT aims to work closely with those
interested in the way a new centre could provide additional facilities in north
Emsworth. A YMCA centre would also help those who move into the hundreds of new
homes planned to be developed in North Emsworth in the next ten years in
Southleigh area.
With the results of the Housing and
Community Survey, the ECLT aims to work with the council to influence the
affordable homes that will be coming through to better meet the needs of those
who need to live and/or work in Emsworth.
Another key strand of ECLT’s work is to
continue to be the catalyst for action with the shops in the town centre. The
shop owners have worked flat out during the last months to stay afloat. ECLT
helped with the Emsworth Alliance launch to help shoppers. A strong sense of
connection emerged in the community during this project and ECLT plans to
continue to work hard on such key local aims.
There is also an ECLT project afoot to
improve South Street to expand some earlier plans for this area. This would work
alongside the proposals shown in the last EMS for possible town centre
improvements. ECLT also works closely with those at Havant Council and
appreciates the support received from them.
The ECLT would like to welcome more
local residents to join as members. It costs only £1 for life. (Donations are
also welcome, of course.) Try our new website on
https://emsworthclt.org.uk and you can drop a signed membership
form and £1 into the Emsworth Community Centre (behind the fire station). Please
do join us in our dedication to help with improvements in our town.
Dwyn
Stepien & Maggie Gebbett
11th January
Evidence shows damage to River Ems
The Friends of the Ems group, formed by people in
Westbourne and the surrounding area, has assembled a dossier of evidence to show
how the river has been harmed.
The group believes the river is being seriously damaged
by the amount of water being removed from its underground sources, and is
lobbying Portsmouth Water and the Environment Agency for a reduction. It has
been backed by Chichester MP Gillian Keegan and local councillors.
A group spokesperson said: ‘Since we formed back in
September we’ve done a lot of research, which has included uncovering past
reports, speaking to experts and recording the memories of local people.
‘We’ve gathered a lot of evidence which we believe shows
how much the river has deteriorated over the years. It’s now at a very worrying
point and action is needed to save it.
‘Having enough water in our taps is of vital importance.
But the social and environmental benefits of a fully functioning river are also
of immense value.
‘The Ems is a very rare chalk stream, one of only about
200 of its kind on Earth. It’s a vital resource for local people as well as for
wildlife. Walkers find beauty and relaxation along its banks. Children play in
it, feed the ducks, catch tiddlers and experience nature. It has a huge role in
the wellbeing and mental health of the community.
‘We believe it must be possible to find a way of
reducing pressure on the river while maintaining a water supply.’
The group, known as FOTE, says the Ems was healthier and
flowed more strongly in the past, before modern-day abstraction (removal of
water) by Portsmouth Water.
It says:
· Past editions
of the national angling guide Where to Fish show that the river has changed
dramatically. From at least 1928 through to 1966, the guide’s description of the
Ems was consistent. It said the river ‘rises above Racton’ and has ‘good
trouting’. By 1967 the entry had been modified to: ‘rises above Racton, trout,
but upper reaches are dry most of summer’. By 1973 there was no mention of the
Ems as a place to fish at all.
· There was a
commercial angling club at Aldemoor/Lord’s Fishpond (alongside Foxbury Lane,
just before Woodmancote Lane) that died out in the early 1970s, after
abstraction began.
· The Domesday
Book (1086) listed four mills and a fishery at Westbourne, a mill at Warblington,
a mill at Newtimber (close to Warblington), a mill at Lordington, two mills at
Nutbourne and three mills at Bosham. The four mills at Westbourne were recorded
as the most valuable in the area, well above the average for mills in Sussex.
This suggests they were stronger than average. The fact that there was a mill at
Lordington suggests there was once a much greater flow of water there. On the
1640 map of Westbourne there are at least two watermills in the village itself
(River Street and King Street), and up to five fisheries.
· The area had
extensive water meadows and watercress beds, visible to this day on LIDAR
(aerial laser survey) maps.
· There was a
sheepwash below Broadwash Bridge (on the Common Road, just north of Foxbury
Lane) that was used to wash flocks in June before they were sheared.
· Numerous oral
history records suggest that the river was never dry below Aldemoor/Lord’s
Fishpond, north of Westbourne, before abstraction began in the 1960s. It was
rarely dry below Broadwash Bridge, and for extensive parts of the year trout and
eels could be found as far north as Mitchamer pond below Stoughton.
· Plant and
animal surveys reported to the Environment Agency in 2007 suggest the Ems used
to be perennial (flowing year-round) below Broadwash bridge.
FOTE says climate change or urbanisation cannot account
for this reduction in the strength of the river.
It points out that in the last 50 years it has become
quite common for the millpond at Westbourne to dry out in dry summers, despite
Portsmouth Water pumping water into the river above the village.
In late September last year, local people were appalled
when the river became not much more than a chain of puddles through the village,
with dead and dying fish. One resident described it as the worst he had ever
seen.
The river had already
been on the edge of drying out, but reached this crisis point because of a
failure of a pump used by Portsmouth Water to add water at times of low flow.
The pump was eventually fixed, and rain helped to
restore some flow. Portsmouth Water apologised, referring to ‘technical
problems’.
It is likely that the river and its wildlife will take
years to recover. FOTE believes the incident highlights long-term issues with
the management of the river.
Several reports on the Ems accept the impact that
abstraction has had on the river and its biodiversity. Abstraction rates have
been fairly constant over the last 50 years but the condition of the river has
got steadily worse.
FOTE says this
reflects the unsustainability of the abstraction, especially during a period of
changing climate. It
believes species including the water vole, kingfisher and brown trout could
become locally extinct.
It does not accept
that the river is a winterbourne – a stream or river that is naturally dry
through the summer months. It says that before abstraction began, it had a
year-round flow well above Westbourne.
FOTE is part of Greening Westbourne, a local
environmental campaign. Greening Westbourne has been supporting a proposal by
Chichester District Council to make the area along the Ems a designated
“wildlife corridor” because of its environmental importance.
Local people who want to
join FOTE can get involved by signing up as supporter. They should email
greeningwestbourne@hotmail.co.uk
The group is also keen to receive more information,
especially written or photographic evidence, that suggests the river once
enjoyed better conditions and flows. It is also still collecting evidence of how
the community and river wildlife have been affected by low flows.
John Millard, Greening Westbourne.
7th January
Emsworth Sailing Club has reached the national final of the RYA and Yachts & Yachting Club of the Year Award 2021.
The award scheme, supported by Gallagher, recognises the outstanding
achievements of sailing clubs across the UK and promotes the hard work and
dedication that goes into running a successful club – a feat made even more
challenging this year with Covid-19 restrictions to contend with.
As an RYA south region finalist, the volunteer-run club is one of ten finalists
from across the UK and a public vote will now decide the winner. The club
is hoping members, local sailors and nearby residents will vote for the club in
its bid to become the national RYA and Yachts & Yachting Club of the Year.
Peggy Field, Emsworth Sailing Club sustainability co-ordinator said: “We are
incredibly excited as a club - being a finalist is a first for us and is welcome
positive news at the end of a very challenging year for everyone.
“Whilst COVID curtailed much of our club programme, we pulled together to do
what we could to support members and our local community.
“During the first lockdown, we opened up our boat park, next to the coastal
footpath, so local residents had space to walk maintaining social distancing.
“Despite not being allowed on the water, our members took to virtual racing,
keeping sailors of all ages engaged.
“As soon as we could, we got back to training and racing, albeit with
restrictions in place.
“We realised how important this was to the wellbeing of our members – being back
in the fold of their club.”
In addition to the club reaching the final, the RYA (Royal Yachting Association)
has also given Emsworth Sailing Club special recognition for its sustainability
achievements.
Earlier this year the club launched its Environment Plan, which has embedded
environmental thinking into the club’s decision-making, making it part of the
club DNA and affecting every aspect of club activity, from on the water to in
the office and even at the bar. Numerous actions have been implemented to
help ‘green’ the club, including fitting trigger nozzles on hoses to reduce
water use and using LED lighting in the clubhouse. The club recycles as
much as possible and looks to ‘repurpose’ things like old rope, that would have
previously been thrown away. The club’s RYA training principal also makes
sure instructors are trained to be ‘green’ so ‘on the water teaching’ does not
disturb harbour wildlife and habitats.
Despite not having the full calendar of racing events, those that have gone
ahead have been greener, with online registration and tallying.
Peggy added: “We are incredibly proud to receive special recognition for all our
work on sustainability.
“All members, whether they sail, surf, swim or paddle, appreciate how amazing
our very own blue - ‘Chichester Harbour’ - is. We want to make sure we look
after it for the next generation of sailors.”
Voting closes on January 25. The overall winner will be announced at the RYA
Virtual Dinghy Show. To vote visit awards.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/rya. The
club has also developed local links and reached out to other clubs in the area
to share knowledge and maximise impact.
Having celebrated its 100th year in 2019, the club has a very forward-facing
focus, including an emphasis on youth development. The club’s juniors have
also been very pro-active in helping with litter picks and making videos on
plastic pollution.
Peggy said: “There is still more to be done and we are really excited to be in
contact with other local clubs around the Harbour to share ideas and learn from
each other. From the youngest to oldest member, our club community has come on
board to take action to support a sustainable Emsworth Sailing Club. By going
green we can save our blue!”
Michelle Gent, RYA Programmes Manager said: “A huge congratulations to all ten
Club of the Year finalists. This has been an especially challenging year for
clubs and each and every person involved in the running of these organisations
has put in a tremendous amount of time and effort so that others can safely get
afloat. Now it’s over to you to pick a winner!
Rob Peake, group editor of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, said: “Anyone
who started at club level as a child, or who joined a club as their entry to the
sailing world as an adult, knows how vital that experience can be.
“A good club will show you how to get better at sailing and encourage you to
continue sailing. A great club will help you simply enjoy sailing and it will
welcome people from all parts its local community. The Club of the Year Award is
unique in that it recognises the hard work that goes on behind the scenes by
volunteers to make sailing clubs great, and to encourage more people into our
sport.”
The Chichester Observer 5th January
2021
4th Januaary
Covid-19 Vaccination Update
Havant Borough and
neighbouring villages, eleven GP practices1.
which also covers some practices in Waterlooville and Havant) started running
vaccination clinics from three 'hubs' — Waterlooville Health Centre, Hayling
Health Centre and Emsworth Baptist Church before Christmas. Sites were
needed to accommodate a large throughput
of patients because, unlike flu jabs, which patients usually receive from their
practices, the new vaccine needs more specialist storage and preparation. It is
hoped that as other vaccines become available. and the expert advice develops,
we can extend the number of vaccination sites.
Both the vaccines
currently licenced for use in the UK (Pfizer and Astra Zeneca) require two doses
to maximise the protection against Coronavirus that they provide. The Chief
Medical Officer, supported by Government scientists, advised on 1 January 2021
that, due to the intensity of the current infection 'spike', the interval
between doses should be 12 weeks rather than the three weeks originally advised
for the Pfizer vaccine, to enable more people to have a first dose sooner.
This means that everyone who had a vaccination at one of ther hubs in December,
and who was told to return three weeks later for their second jab, will now have
this second appointment postponed until early/mid-March.
1,
Bosmere Medical Practice, Denmead Practice, The Elms Practice, Emsworth Surgery,
Homewell Practice, Oaks Heatthcare, Park Lane Medics Practice, Staunton Surgery,
The Village Surgery, Vine Medical Group, Waterside Metal Practice are working
together to vaccinate patients as quickly as they can. The primary care networks
(PCNs) of Havant & Waterlooville, Hayling Island & Emsworth and Strawberry
Health.
1st January
Emsworth was put into
Tier 4 on Saturday 19th December
1. Non-essential shops, hairdressers and leisure and entertainment venues are
closed, with a new “stay at home” message introduced.
2. People who need to travel for education or childcare will be exempt, and
exercise will be unlimited. Where people cannot work from home, they are still
able to travel to work.
3. Under the measures, households will not be allowed to mix, but one person
will be allowed to meet with one other person outside in a public space. Support
bubbles and those meeting for childcare will be exempt.
4. Those who are deemed clinically extremely vulnerable should not go to work
and should limit time outside of their homes.
5. Tier 4 residents must not stay overnight away from home, and cannot travel
abroad.
More info. on Emsworth in Tier 4 can be found HERE
