Wealden News June 2012

Planning and the Ashdown Forest

As everyone is aware, The Ashdown Forest is an area afforded the highest level of environmental protection in order to prevent harm to this internationally recognised habitat of rare plants and animals. As part of the longterm plan for Wealden called the Core Strategy, development is being directed away from the Forest to established communities with a range of shops, schools and other facilities.The Core strategy was in this respect strongly supported by the Planning Inspector who carried out a recent inquiry and is now underpinned by the Government's new National Planning Policy Framework which emphasises the requirement to preserve Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and internationally recognised sites.

As a result, any planning application must take into account potential impacts on the Forest.Any increase in vehicle movements which increase nitrogen deposition and any additional visitor pressures need to be curtailed.This means that additional growth around the Forest in housing,employment and community projects can only take place if they can demonstrate there is no harm to the Forest.Developments which are allowed including sites allocated in the Core Strategy must contribute to the provision of suitable green spaces which can meet recreational needs away from the Forest.

This will mean that new developments outside the Core Strategy will not be likely to receive planning permission.However,extensions ,replacements and some changes of use are unlikely to be affected.

This policy is controversial but if it helps to protect the Forest for future generations, then we have no need to apologise for it.

Forest Director

The new Director of the Forest, Mrs Pat Buesnel took up her post on May 1st

Jubilee

On June 4th, weather permitting, we will be lighting a beacon on the Forest at 10 p.m. in Four Counties Car Park which is near Kings Standing.

Churches in the area are also being asked to ring their bells at 11.30 on Sunday June 3rd.

If you need any more information about Wealden activities, contact your local councillors who are Roy Galley on 01825 713018 cllr.roy.galley @wealden.gov.uk and Peter Roundell on 01825 724199 cllr.peter.roundell@wealden.gov.uk

Wealden MP, Charles Hendry has welcomed the biggest changes for 30 years in the way the interests of children with Special Educational Needs are protected, with more control being given directly to parents.

For the first time ever, parents will be given the power to control personal budgets for their children -meaning they can choose the expert support that is right for their child, instead of local authorities being the sole provider. The changes will require health, educations and care services to work together.

The reforms will force education, health and social care services to plan services together by law – so when children are assessed, parents will be assured they will get full provision to address their children’s needs.

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William Rutherford

Following the sad death of Cllr. John Padfield, Conservatives in Frant, Eridge, Mark Cross and Withyham have selected William Rutherford to fight the seat at a by election to be held on 14th June 2012.

About William:

Your Local Candidate has always valued the rural character and vibrant community spirit of the area where we live.  William joined the Parish Council in Frant shortly after moving to the village with his wife Natasha.  As a Parish Councillor he has been inspired by the passion of local residents, and is excited by the opportunity to represent you at the District Council.

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