Around 250 people visited a very successful Exhibition of Plans and Parish Consultation Exercise held over the weekend of 23rd and 24th November. Work is now underway to assess the responses made during the weekend, to agree any changes that need to be made to the initial sketch plans and to consider the part that alternative crops might play in the future development of local agriculture.

In their opening remarks both our local M.P. John Burnett and Vice Chairman of the County Council, Des Shadrick, paid tribute to the way in which our community has responded to the challenge of finding new ways to plan the development and regeneration of rural areas and to ensure that the views of local residents are fully taken into account. "What you are doing in High Bickington is of both local and national interest" said John Burnett "and you can be rightly proud of all that is being achieved. You have my full backing and I shall be doing all I can to support you."

There are many challenges ahead and we continue to need your help and support. Thank you to all who completed and returned their 'Comments Sheet' during the weekend. There is still time to let us know your views. If you took away a form so that you could make a considered response then please return it as soon as possible to either the Meeting Point or to a member of the Project 2000 Committee. If you do not have a form but would still like to make a response then please call David Brown on 01769 560873 for a form or just jot down your thoughts on paper and return it as above by 7th December at the latest.

There was a good response to the request for details of those interested in the possibility of self build and/or affordable housing, craft or general business workshops or retail outlets at Little Bickington Farm. This will help us with the future development plans. There is still time to let us know your needs.

Email us at info@highbickington.org
or
contact David Brown on
01769 560873 or david@highbickington.org

David Venner, helped by other Project 2000 members, is also very busy drawing up a 'Landscape Plan' to help ensure that the architect fully reflects the importance of the Parish Landscape in any proposals he makes. A survey of local 'wild-life' is also being considered.

John Burnett M.P., following his recent attendance at the special Parish Council meeting, has given his full support for the project and has asked to be kept informed of progress. He will also be arranging high-level meetings with government officials at both local and national levels to gain the funding needed to implement our local Parish Plans.