Felmersham Parish Council

The last decade has seen several changes within the Parish as well as in the surrounding locality. These are presenting the villages with issues that are clearly affecting the lives of parishioners. The Parish survey results indicate the quality of life provided by a rural locality, and the preservation of village character for future generations are clearly cherished by many, yet they are under threat.

Conservation Area - Church End, Felmersham

Following housing development in neighbouring villages and expansion of the nearby Upper School and Community College, growth in traffic has been exacerbated by the associated problems of speeding and parking. Speed limits have failed to address the problems, and the dangers presented by such traffic loads on narrow bridges and small winding roads, often without pedestrian footpaths, are clear. The prevalence of roadside parking and inadequate parking facilities at Pinchmill Lower School and the Village Hall, also present problems.

Visitors, especially for weddings and funerals, are forced to park on already narrow roads.

The villages of Felmersham and Radwell are geographically compact, and the survey shows that further expansion is unwelcome. Selective infill development preserving the character of these villages may, however, be acceptable.

Young people in particular highlighted the lack of things to do, as well as poor recreational facilities and bus services.

The loss of a village shop and the closure of two public houses are regretted; poor public transport only emphasises the reliance on the motor vehicle for many within the Parish.

It was felt that the local authority is failing to keep the villages and surroundings in an acceptable state of tidiness. For example, certain volunteers have taken it upon themselves to collect litter for the good of the community.

The Parish survey results indicate an overwhelming desire to protect the countryside, and for the villages to preserve their valued green areas.