Headline Issues
SUES
Concerns and priorities
- (4.1) Over development which could threaten the attractive nature of the area, including building on Greenfield sites.
- (4.2) The River is an important asset in Chippenham and is not used to its full potential. Much could be done to enhance the town by enhancing the river and riverside environment.
- (4.3) Recycling facilities in villages. More Doorstep recycling.
- (4.4) Litter & chewing gum in both the Town and Country side
- (4.5) Flytipping
- (4.6) Resolve dog fouling issues
- (4.7) Unauthorised Travellers sites.
- (4.8) Lack of Green Tourism
- (4.9) Chippenham needs to improve its environment, whilst maintaining its character and attraction as an important Wiltshire Market Town.
What is currently happening
- (4.1) North Wiltshire District Council (NWDC) are conducting a survey of housing needs, and background studies have been undertaken for the Local Plan. Criteria is specified in the Local Plan. Community First are conducting a housing needs survey in villages.
- (4.2) The River is not being used to its full potential. Local Access Forum is being currently considered, to bring to the attention of 'Access to Waterways'
- (4.3) A Rethink Rubbish directory is currently being compiled by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. 66% of households are covered by the black box doorstep recycling scheme. NWDC has an ongoing assessment of green waste recycling. Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is working with Sheldon School to introduce an Invessel Composter on Site.
- (4.4) Litter bins in the high street emptied twice a day. Others in the area on a regular cycle. NWDC have purchased a steam cleaning chewing gum removal machine, and trained Town Council and Westlea Housing Association staff in it's use.
- (4.5) 65% of reported flytips are collected within 2 working days. Anyone caught flytipping will be prosecuted (fine up to £20,000) NWDC provides a special refuse collection for large items in an attempt to reduce flytipping.
- (4.6) The NWDC Dog Warden investigates complaints as they are raised. NWDC Environmental Health team provide the signs, and advise Cleansing & Amenities where to site dog bins. Town Council and Parish Councils are responsible for any dog fouling issues on their land/property
- (4.7) The Government is currently reviewing how local authorities should assess and provide for the needs of the Gypsy and Traveller community.
- (4.8) Areas of Vincents Wood are being developed to permit disabled access, and to exclude motorbikes from the site. The area has cycleways linked with the Sustrans National Cycle Network. Work is underway to restore Wiltshire and Berkshire canal route.
- (4.9) Chippenham is losing customers, housing, leisure facilities, and business to Bristol, Bath and Swindon.
The Next Steps and Targets
- (4.1) Revised Local Plan to be adopted in 2006, which forms the basis for future development, particularly the use of Brownfield sites. Protect and maintain Rural Buffer Zone.
- (4.2) Consider potential for boating, tourism, and linkage to the intended canal network, cycleways and footpaths. Improve access and signage. Revist the 'River Green' project and move this forward as a plan for enhancing and regenerating the town centre and riveside areas. Link this to Economy, Retail and Tourism. Implement the 'River Green' Project as an integral part of the Chippenham 2020 Plan for the regeneration of Chippenham.
- (4.3) Launch Rethink Rubbish directory 2005. Black box doorstep recycling scheme to be extended to 95% of households across the district. The scheme will extend to the larger villages in Spring and Summer 2005. Complete rollout by 31st March 2006. NWDC to introduce pilot schemes across the district for composting and collection of green waste. Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to investigate funding in order to offer Invessel Composter in more schools.
- (4.4) Notify people that if they feel an area needs a litter bin or more regular emptying they should contact NWDC for an assessment to be made. Chewing gum removal in Chippenham will be carried out in 2005. NWDC to continue to work in partnership with the Town Council and Housing Associations to make full use of the steam cleaning machine.
- (4.5) NWDC to investigate Streetscene Funding. All flytips across the district to be collected within 2 working days by 2008.
- (4.6) Identify sites for dog bins and signs. Dog bin are provided within 21days or an explanation will be given. Integration of dog bins and litter bins to imporve services.
- (4.7) Consider action when the outcome of the government review is known.
- (4.8) Consider history trails. Circular walks.
- (4.9) Community Debate needed to identify what Chippenham needs in terms of improving the environment in the town. Link this to economy, retail and tourism. Implement the findings of the debate into the Chippenham 2020 Plan for the regeneration of Chippenham
