We now have a new .gov.uk website and all new email addresses. 

The new site address is fenditton-pc.gov.uk

The clerk's new email address is clerk@fenditton-pc.gov.uk

The Greater Cambridge Partnership 'Making Connections' consultation is now open. Residents and those travelling to the area are being asked for their thoughts on the three parts of the proposals:

1. Transforming the bus network - new routes, additional services, cheaper fares and longer operating hours

2. Investing in other sustainable travel schemes - new sustainable travel schemes, such as better walking and cycling links

3. Creating a Sustainable Travel Zone - GCP is proposing the introduction of a Sustainable Travel Zone which includes a road user charge in and around Cambridge. Vehicles would be charged for driving within the zone between 7am and 7pm on weekdays, and money raised would fund improvements to the bus network and other sustainable travel schemes. The Zone would be fully operational in 2027/28 but only after the bus improvements are introduced

Please click here for more details of the proposals, including the consultation brochure, a map book showing current and proposed bus services, a zoomable map of the proposed Sustainable Travel Zone, details of drop-in sessions and webinars, and to the survey itself.

The proposals will be on the agenda for discussion at the Fen Ditton Parish Council meeting on 1 November (to be held in the church) so if any residents wish to come along they would, as always, be most welcome.

The consultation closes at midday on 23 December 2022.

A Commemoration Service is to be held at Fen Ditton parish church at 10.30am on Sunday 18th September. This will use the national material designed for the day before the funeral and is intended to be as inclusive as possible for those from the village and parish who would like to come and pay their respects.  It will be a fairly short service and will have both formal and informal elements.

After Saturday's Proclamation of the new King, Charles III, flags have been lowered once more as we continue to mourn the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. They will remain at half mast until after the State Funeral on Monday 19th September.

Books of Condolence are available at Fen Ditton Parish Church and at South Cambridgeshire Hall, Cambourne CB23 6EA. Flowers and tributes may be laid in both places. An official online Book of Condolence is being made available on the Royal Family website, and a further online Book has been set up by Cambridgeshire County Council. Messages left on this will be saved as a local archive.

Thanksgiving Services will be held at Great St Mary’s Church in Cambridge and Ely Cathedral on Sunday 18th September 2022, with further details to be published in due course.

Cambridgeshire will also take part in the two-minute silence planned at 11am* on the day of the State Funeral on 19th September 2022, and the National Moment of Reflection at 8pm on the evening before.

*UPDATE Buckingham Palace has more recently announced that the two-minutes' silence will now start at approximately 11.55am, towards the end of the State Funeral Service.

Chair, Fen Ditton Parish Council

The Save Honey Hill campaign will be holding an auction of promises at Horningsea Village Hall on 17th September, starting at 7pm.

The list of promises offered so far includes punting with fizz, a tour of St John’s College and tower, gardening, all sorts of lessons (music, cooking, fly casting, computer...), ironing, pet-sitting, a ride in a Lamborghini - something to appeal to everyone!

Owing to fire regulations, this is a ticketed event. The tickets cost £1 including a complimentary glass of wine or a soft drink - please see the poster for more details.

Locality recently conducted a survey among Marleigh residents on whether to introduce e-scooters to Marleigh. A majority (15 of the 19 respondents) were in favour and Locality has spoken to the operating company VOI. Expanding the operational area eastwards would also require approval from Cambs County Council and Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority.

Please click here for a fuller report on the survey results.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership is currently consulting on ‘A new road classification for Cambridge: A review of how roads and streets are categorised and used’. The ambition of the proposals is that trips by cars, vans and lorries would be required to use main roads for as much of their journey as possible to reduce traffic on local roads and streets.

On page 6 it says 'It does, however, mean that some main roads could see an increase in the amount of traffic as local roads and streets are closed to through trips.'

The B1047 (Horningsea Road / Ditton Lane) between the A14 and Newmarket Road is shown on page 13 as a main, Primary Distributor Road, which would be 'used by all (residents, commuters & visitors) and all vehicle types'. It is not clear how the existing bottlenecks with Newmarket Road, the Barnwell Road roundabout and beyond would handle the additional traffic.

Make sure you respond to this consultation: it's really important to get your opinions in at this stage. The consultation closes at midday on Monday 18 July.

The Parish Council has responded to the Phase 3 consultation on the proposed relocation of Anglian Water's sewage works to Honey Hill. Please click here to view its response.

Anna Bradnam, who is the County Councillor for Fen Ditton and also Chair of South Cambridgeshire District Council, recently planted a plum tree (Prunus domestica) on green space owned by the District Council in Musgrave Way in honour of Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. This was part of a major initiative for The Queen's Green Canopy project, and a plaque will be installed soon to mark the occasion.

Cllr Bradnam said, “The Council had already planted some fruit trees for the residents of Musgrave Way to enjoy, so it was a real pleasure to add this plum tree to the little orchard we have created. My Dad grew fruit trees in our council house garden when I was younger and I remember the pleasure of eating a sweet, juicy plum straight from the tree. Mum used to bottle fruit too, so we had gorgeous fruit right through the winter. Her Majesty the Queen wanted us to be inspired to plant trees in our communities, so I'm sure the residents will water and care for the trees and enjoy their produce for decades to come.”

The District Council thanks S P Landscapes & Tree Contractors Ltd for supplying the plum tree.

There is currently a vacancy on Fen Ditton Parish Council.

If you might be interested in becoming a councillor and would like to know more, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Association of Local Councils are hosting two Zoom sessions for prospective councillors. They will explain what local councils and councillors do, how you can become a councillor, details of the role and what to expect. All prospective councillors from Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are welcome to attend.

Please click on the links below for more information and to book your free place.

• Saturday 5 March 9.30am till noon
• Wednesday 16 March, 6.30pm till 9pm
   

Bill Handley, the SCDC Lead Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, Health and Wellbeing, has sent the following message, which includes details of how you can help.

'As we watch the terrible events in Ukraine unfold, our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine. The horrors of war, as shown in the photographs and videos on the news media, is impossible to overstate. The Council has pledged to support people fleeing the Ukraine and is calling for a national resettlement programme to be set up by the Government so that this can happen. Councillors have said that the Council will play their part and work to identify local homes for refugees leaving the warzone if needed. You can read the Council’s position in full here: pledge to support people fleeing Ukraine.

We hear and empathise with the anxiety and concern of residents who want to do something to help those affected and we want to help by signposting people who wish to offer support in response to the humanitarian crisis.

Donations

Local organisation Cambridge Convoy Refugee Action – which ordinarily works to take regular convoys of donated items to refugees in Calais – has advised that it is NOT currently collecting items for Ukraine. They suggest instead that donations of money is a much more effective way of helping the aid organisations that are working in the region.

In line with this recommendation, the Local Government Association (LGA) has provided Councils with this link to BBC News online where it suggests people should direct their support to organisations including:

• The British Red Cross, which has launched an appeal to help the Ukrainian Red Cross to provide food, medicine, clothing and shelter, as well as first aid training in bomb shelters, and drinking water to villages in eastern Ukraine
• The UNHCR refugee agency, which is funding emergency shelters, repairs for homes damaged by shelling, emergency cash assistance, psychological support and warm clothing
• UNICEF, the UN's children's charity, which is helping to ensure families have clean water and food and that child health and protection services continue
• Save the Children, which is providing cash assistance, food and other support to refugees crossing into Romanian and Lithuania, as well as in Ukraine itself.

Additionally, the Secretary of State for Defence, Ben Wallace, has suggested donating money through the Ukrainian Embassy’s With Ukraine fund. The money will be spent on providing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population and to purchase medical and military supplies for Ukraine's army.

You may also have seen overnight that the UK Government has committed to matching the donations made by people in the UK to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), which similarly provides food, water, shelter, healthcare and protection to people fleeing Ukraine.

Misinformation

In addition to donating, another practical thing that we can all do is to be careful not to unwittingly distribute misinformation or propaganda about the situation by sharing articles, images or videos that we see online which are fake or misleading. The Full Fact organisation has some useful tips on how to spot false information online and sharing these tips within our communities can help. Here are links to their posts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Please note that this information was collated on Thursday 3 March 2022. Due to the fast-changing nature of the situation, it is clearly not possible to create an exhaustive list of the organisations supporting the local and national effort. If there are significant changes, we will share the information via social media or with another Community Update.

This fund aims to help those struggling to pay for food, energy or other essential items this winter. Cambridgeshire County Council has been allocated £3.58 million as part of the Government’s Household Support Fund to help people who need financial support.

The fund usually provides £49 (for a family) or £29 (for an individual) to cover food or household energy costs, but more funding may be available for people who can demonstrate a higher need – for instance for higher costs of filling an oil tank or buying a new cooker. To be eligible for the Household Support Fund residents will need to earn less than £17,940 or receive any of various state benefits.

Please click here for more details and a link to the application form.

Businesses can now apply for the latest Government grant schemes to be administered by South Cambridgeshire District Council. The first is the Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant (OHLG). The second is further funding available via the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG). Please click here for full eligibility criteria and application forms. Applications should be made by 18 February. Final payments will be made by 31 March 2022.

The District Council's Zero Carbon Communities team is holding a number of free events to celebrate climate action taking place in the district, as well as looking at some of the things that the council is doing to mitigate and adapt to climate change in the future. 

• 21 February, 7pm to 8pm: Community Action in Response to the Climate Emergency
• 23 February, 7pm to 8pm: Cycling for Sustainability
• 24 February, 1pm to 2pm: Making your business greener
• 1 March, 1pm to 2pm: Planning for the Climate Emergency
• 3 March, 1pm to 2pm: Installing Electric Vehicle Charge Points for workplaces and public use
• 7 March, 6pm to 7pm: Post Covid Community Support Workshop

Please click here for more details and to get free tickets.

The first stage of the Chisholm Trail route was opened today, connecting Cambridge North to Coldham's Lane via the new bridge and Newmarket Road underpass. 

For more information about the different phases of the project, please click here.

The Parish Council has responded to the recent consultation on the first proposals for the new Greater Cambridge Local Plan.

Please read on for a summary of its objection points, and click here to view the full response.

Green bin collections across Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire are being suspended from Monday (13 December) because of the number of drivers and loaders absent - particularly with Coronavirus or self-isolating.

Crews are working hard to complete rounds that are scheduled for the rest of this week but from Monday (13 December), green bin collections will be suspended and are planned to resume on Wednesday 12 January 2022 in line with the previously published Christmas schedule.

This means that the next green bin collection for Fen Ditton will be on Monday 17 January.

Please click here to read the full press release from South Cambs District Council.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership is seeking people's views on options to improve walking, cycling and public transport on Newmarket Road and want to hear from anyone who lives in, works in, travels to or from, or has a business or commercial interest in the area. The options include

• improving the Elizabeth Way roundabout
• improving the Barnwell Road roundabout
• putting in more cycle ways along Newmarket Road
• putting in more bus lanes along Newmarket Road
• initial ideas on relocation of the Park & Ride site.

Please click here for more information, including links to the consultation brochure and for filling out the online survey.

The consultation closes at midday on Wednesday 22 December 2021

Many thanks to the team of intrepid volunteers who turned out in grim weather on Saturday to plant hedging whips on the Recreation Ground.

The Chesterton Partnership is holding two public exhibitions to view and discuss the proposals for the next phase of the Cambridge North site - the former railway sidings next to Cambridge North station.

There is no need to pre-register to attend these in-person events, which will be held on

• Wednesday 8th December 2021 from 4pm to 8pm
• Thursday 9th December 2021 from 12pm to 4pm

at Novotel Cambridge North, 2 Cambridge Square, CB4 0AE.

For further details, please click here.

In May 2021 the Parish Council approved a tree planting plan for the village, which included a grant from the SCDC Zero Carbon Fund and a further six trees from the SCDC Free Trees Grant. 

The plan kicked off today with contractors planting around the Recreation Ground, Wright's Close, Musgrave Way and High Ditch Road. 

Over the weekend it was announced that Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have been granted ‘Enhanced Response Area’ status by the Government.

Rising rates in older people coupled with building pressures on local health and education services led to the County Council, which is responsible for public health, to ask Government to grant Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Enhanced Response Area status for at least five weeks from Monday November 1, to bring down infection rates which are currently higher in most areas than seen in January’s peak. 

This is a measure that has been welcomed by County Council leaders and Public Health colleagues.

In granting the Enhanced Response Area status, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Vaccines and Public Health, Minister Maggie Throup, said: “This is a positive step of providing additional support to prevent transmission, and not a step backwards towards local restrictions or Plan B”.

You can read the County Council’s press release on their website for further information and the latest updates.

1. There is a vacancy on Fen Ditton Parish Council caused by the resignation of Councillor Serga Collett.
2. A by-election to fill the vacancy will be held if, within 14 days (computed in accordance with the Regulations) from 10th September 2021, ten electors from the said parish give notice in writing requesting that an election be held.
3. Such notice must be delivered to the Returning Officer at: South Cambridgeshire District Council, South Cambridgeshire Hall, Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne, Cambridge CB23 6EA
4. If no such notice is given, the Parish Council will fill the vacancy by co-option. If you are interested in filling this vacancy please contact the Parish Clerk directly.

Sarah Clerk, Parish Clerk

Address: Barton Ley, Bannold Drove, Waterbeach, Cambridge CB25 9QQ
clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk
01223 862687

1. There is a vacancy on Fen Ditton Parish Council caused by disqualification resulting from non-attendance over six consecutive months by Councillor Tom Butler.
2. A by-election to fill the vacancy will be held if, within 14 days (computed in accordance with the Regulations) from 14th August 2021, ten electors from the said parish give notice in writing requesting that an election be held.
3. Such notice must be delivered to the Returning Officer at: South Cambridgeshire District Council, South Cambridgeshire Hall, Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne, Cambridge CB23 6EA
4. If no such notice is given, the Parish Council will fill the vacancy by co-option. If you are interested in filling this vacancy please contact the Parish Clerk directly.

Sarah Clerk, Parish Clerk

Address: Barton Ley, Bannold Drove, Waterbeach, Cambridge CB25 9QQ
clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk
​01223 862687

Rescheduled meeting on 16th August, 4.30 - 7.30 p.m. in Village Hall

With local Covid-19 rates rising sharply and amid concerns that this will affect vulnerable people and overwhelm public services, our county councillor has passed on a plea for continued caution from Jyoti Atri, Director of Public Health for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, and leaders of local public sector organisations. They urge residents to do the right thing and keep following the measures that can reduce transmission of the virus.

Hospitals in the area are under immense pressure, with increasing demands for urgent care. Increases in Covid cases requiring hospital care will add further stress to system. In addition, all of our public services have been further impacted by having high numbers of staff self-isolating, either because they have tested positive, or they have been a close contact of someone who has. There is concern that if rates continue to rise further, it could impact the delivery of key services.

As a result, the leaders of public sector organisations have come together to make a collective plea for people to do whatever they can to reduce transmission of Covid-19. This includes:

• Saying yes to both doses of the vaccine - with all adults now eligible and people able to have their second dose eight week after the first.
• Taking a rapid test twice a week to identify the one in three people with Covid without symptoms.
• Taking a test and self-isolating if you have symptoms of Covid-19.
• Reducing unnecessary contact with others indoors.
• Meeting people outdoors or in well-ventilated places if possible.
• Wearing a mask in crowded places – or where you can’t keep a distance.
• Washing your hands thoroughly and regularly

Please read on for more detail.

We regret that the face-to-face meeting for residents with Anglian Water at the Village Hall cannot go ahead this Saturday as planned. It is stressed that this is a postponement and not a cancellation: alternative arrangements are being investigated and will be announced as soon as possible - please watch this space.

Representatives from Anglian Water will be available to answer questions about the proposed relocation of the sewage works to Honey Hill. There will also be a display of physical exhibition boards, hard copy materials to take away such as consultation leaflets, feedback forms, freepost envelopes and factsheets.

The session format will be a maximum of 4 residents at a time and you can pre-book a 15 minute slot to speak to the project team by contacting them either by email info@cwwtpr.com or phone 0808 196 1661. You can simply turn up on the day but may have to wait depending on how many people are already in the Hall at the time.

A Zoom webinar providing a space for local residents to engage with developers and public sector bodies surrounding the developments in the east of Cambridge, including Marleigh.

Please click here for more details and a link to join the meeting.

Over the last few years, trees in the village have been lost but not replanted in equal numbers. The Parish Council has agreed in principle to plant a number of trees around the village, both to help redress this loss and to 'do our bit' for conservation and climate change, and South Cambridgeshire District Council have agreed to plant trees at Wrights Close, Musgrave Way and the Ditton Lane car park.

Please click here to view the Parish Council's proposals for new trees at

• Green End (verge at Osier Holt)*
• The children's play area on the Rec
• The cemetery
• High Street (verge outside nos 29 and 31)*
• Ditton Lane*
• High Ditch Road (verge near nos 45 and 47)*

Letters have been sent to the households that would be most affected and the Council values all residents' opinions on the proposals - please send any comments to the Parish Clerk by 31st May 2021.

* Planting on these verges would be subject to permission from the County Council.

As part of the Great British Spring Clean, we will be running a village litter pick on 5th June, starting at 10am from the Recreation Ground Pavilion. Please pre-register your attendance to the Parish Clerk and bring your own gloves and litter-picker if you have one. (Don't worry if not: we will have a supply of them at the Pavilion, along with hand sanitiser.)

We will be also starting the refurbishment of the phone box the same morning, led by Mark Easterfield. As you might realise, the size of the phone box means that numbers are limited. Four is the maximum, so we need another three volunteers on this occasion. However, if you wish to be part of the ongoing refurbishment project and have a specific skill you can offer, please let us know and we will add your name to the team.

Coffee and tea will be available at the Pavilion from 9.30am.

Work is taking place along the ditch behind the Hall Farm properties. Vegetation around the culvert has been cleared and the works will also include clearing the ditch and shoring up the banks to ensure a free flow of water. We hope this will address some of the problems from algae, mosquitoes etc. reported by residents there previously.

Many thanks to Gonville and Caius College and their agents Bidwells for arranging and financing these works. They should be complete by 28th May.

Under the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 Sections 26 and 27 and the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 (SI 2015/234), any person interested has the right to inspect the accounting records of the parish council. A summary of those rights may be viewed here, and Fen Ditton Parish Council's annual return and accounting statement for the year ended 31st March 2021 may be viewed by clicking here.

Playing Out is a parent and resident led movement restoring children’s freedom to play out in the streets and spaces where they live, for their health, happiness and sense of belonging.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership and Cambridgeshire County Council recognise the benefits of playing out events and are now inviting expressions of interest from residents who would like to temporarily close their roads to traffic to allow children to play safely near their homes during the summer holiday. They have put together a guide to help residents organise and plan a playing out event.

For more details, please read on.

South Cambridgeshire District Council recently refused planning approval for two applications for development within Fen Ditton recently. The decision notices and officer reports outlining the reasons can be viewed from the following links:

• 12 Horningsea Road
• 36 Green End

The jetty path under the railway bridge linking Ditton Meadows with Stourbridge Common opened up this afternoon. 

Here is a link to the full story.

A public consultation on Phase 2 of the Marleigh development on Newmarket Road is currently under way, before a planning application is submitted later this year. This phase includes 421 new homes on land that is adjacent to the first phase which is currently under construction.

Please click here to find out further information on the proposals and to provide feedback. You can also send feedback by email.

This consultation closes on 30th April 2021.

The more observant may have been thinking that the speed sign on High Ditch Road has been dormant for all of March. However, this is not actually the case: it’s been in what the manufacture calls 'spy mode', where it just records data. 

An initial look comparing the data between February and March indicates the number travelling at 30mph or below was significantly better when the speed indicator was illuminated. In February 92% were within the speed limit but in March the number dropped to 78%. The numbers travelling between 31 and 35mph also showed a big improvement when the sign was lit (6% in February and 17% in March). There was also an improvement in drivers practising for Formula 1, with this category at 0.13% in Feb compared with 0.54% in March. 

As ever with statistics, it’s not that simple as the sample size fell from 11,667 in Feb to 8,270 in March. And there was some improvement generally in the numbers entering the 30mph area.

A link to the March data is here. Note that the 'incoming' data refers to vehicles heading towards the speed sign and therefore out of the village.

The speed sign will have to remain in its current location, and may be out of action, over the summer until more volunteers are available. If you live on High Street, Church Street or Horningsea Road and want to help with the sign on your road please contact the Parish Clerk.

Agenda

Introduction - Debbie Kaye (Head of Community Services, Cambridge City Council) - 5 mins
1. Community involvement - Sally Roden (Community Services manager, Cambridge City Council) - 5 mins
2. Planning Authority update - Stephen Kelly (Joint Director of Planning & Economic Development) - 15 mins
3. Area Action Plan update - Hana/Julian/Matt (Planning Policy, Greater Cambridge Planning Service) - 10 mins
4. Core site - Fiona Bryant (Strategic Director, Cambridge City Council) - 5 mins
5. Wastewater Treatment Plant - Karen Barkley (Anglian Water) - 5 mins
6. Questions - All panel members - 30 mins
Close – thanks and next stages - Debbie Kaye - 5 mins

For Zoom meeting invitation or to pre-submit a question, please click here.

Roadworks during February, delays likely B1047 Horningsea Road

Link to the full details

Update

We understand that this will be overnight work to resurface the bridge over the A14, between 8pm and 6am, and will probably last four days.

Further update

The work, roughy between Filly Lane and the drive to the Biggin, is now scheduled to be over 5 nights, starting 1st March. The road will be closed to through traffic and a local diversion will be in place. The off/on slips at Junction 34 A14 will also be closed for the safety of the workforce, and due to work also taking place in the vicinity on the A14 by Highways England.

The resurfacing works will take place during the first three shifts, with the new road markings, signs, and traffic loops being installed on shifts four and five. Outside of the above working hours the road will be open to traffic with appropriate warning signs in place.

Sadly there have been local reports of a convincing scam recently. People are being called by bogus fraud officers who try to con them into getting and sharing an activation code to their account so they can 'check some payments that appear to be fraudulent'. Doing this would give the fraudsters access to the money in your account so if this happens to you, just say that you will put down the phone and call them back on the bank's official number which you have, and they will likely hang up straight away.

Remember that banks and the real police or fraud department will never call you and ask you to reveal information about your account.

Anglian Water have just announced SIte 3, Honey Hill has been selected as their choise for a site for the new sewage works.

Full details on their web site tomorrow morning.

Update

Here is the link for to full details.

The speed monitoring sign on High Ditch Road showed a peak speed of 63mph in its first week. More worrying was these speeds are being done during early afternoon when most pedestrians are about. Also interesting is that the faster speeds and at the peak, are vehicles leaving the village, when the speed warning indicator would have flagged this to oncoming drivers. 

However, if we ignore the headline speeds, the vehicle percentage speed is within the normal distribution, i.e. 85% of vehicles are within the 30mph speed limit in both directions. 

A link to the speed date is here.

Here is a link to the first day's speed data from the new speed sign on High Ditch Road. For most of the time it was in 'Spy' mode, but now it has switched out of this mode automatically. 

It makes for interesting reading, with some cars in both directions exceeding 55mph, but most are within the 30 mph limit. 

The data is in pdf files within the website (Parish Council > Document Folders > Speed Data). We will make best efforts to update the files weekly but are short of volunteer helpers so this may not always be possible. 

The intelligent speed sign or MVAS has been installed on a lamp post along High Ditch Road in the 30mph zone. While the sign may appear inactive, it is in 'Spy' mode, recording speed data to set a base line before activating the display. 

The device records speed data, producing statistics which may help us understand the extent of any speeding problem in the village. We will publish the data on this site when we have captured enough data.

The unit also needs a few adjustments as during testing we found a local jogger repeatedly running up High Ditch Road - apparently the unit was registering her speed and she was challenging herself to see how fast she could run! Obviously, recording joggers will distort the stats a bit.

Please make sure you and your family all dig out your NHS number and have a copy of it immediately to hand for when you or they are called for the COVID jab. NHS staff on the front line have reported that this is far and away the biggest bottleneck when it comes to administering the vaccine to as many people as quickly as possible.

You can find your NHS number (a 10-digit number, like 485 777 3456) in most documents or letters sent to you by the NHS, such as your prescriptions, test results, hospital referral letters or appointment letters.

Sadly, scammers continue to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to commit fraud on unsuspecting victims.

Cambridgeshire Police have had reports of fraudsters sending fake text messages, which claim you are entitled to a dose of the newly-approved vaccine. The bogus message states that you are entitled to a vaccine and to receive more information you should click on the link.

Unfortunately, these texts are fake. Once you click on the link, you are taken to a webpage, which is branded to look like a genuine NHS page, which requests to see 'proof of ownership of address' in the form of your bank account, sort code and a full bank card number.

Do not give your bank or card details to make payment for a vaccine or to prove your residential address. Coronavirus vaccines are free and the NHS will never ask for any money or your bank details, or arrive unannounced at your home to administer the vaccine.

Fen Ditton School is in need of computer equipment to support school children in their online learning during lockdown.

Please read on for details of how to help.

Please read on for details and links to ongoing public consultations on three transport projects:

• The GCP Cambridge Eastern Access project
• The GCP Waterbeach to Cambridge project
• Network Rail plans for a Cambridge South station near to the Biomedical Campus.

The biggest mobile crane in the country is in Cambridge and ready to transform the riverside on Ditton Meadows. The 263ft-high giant AK680 will lift the Abbey–Chesterton cycle bridge into place across the River Cam in the next few days. Owned and operated by Sarens UK in Middlesbrough, the crane has a maximum lifting capacity of 1200 tonnes, and takes 45 transport wagons to transport it. 

Owing to the new lockdown, the Remembrance Sunday service for the parishes of Fen Ditton, Horningsea and Teversham will be held via Zoom at 10.30 am. There will also be a short Act of Remembrance at the Fen Ditton War Memorial at 10.50 am. The names of the fallen will be read out, and wreaths will be laid.

Communities are being urged to keep the size of such gatherings small. Please consider marking the occasion by joining the Zoom service, or by keeping the two minutes silence on your front doorstep.

If you do intend to come, please carefully note and observe these guidelines:

Where members of the public do attend, they must only attend the event with their own household or those in their support bubble, or one other person and observe social distancing rules [2 metres between attendees]

The Parish Council has formally objected to the proposals put forward in the recent North East Cambridge Area Action Plan consultation. Please click here to view the text of its response.

Fen Ditton Parish Council is delighted that Councillor George Devine has been awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

The citation is 'For sevices to the community of Fen Ditton, Cambridgeshire during Covid-19'. This is particularly relevant as he is again organising a village response team as we seem to be gearing up for another outbreak.

Congratulations, George, and thanks for all the hard work over many years supporting the village and our volunteers.

Fen Ditton Parish Council

George had the following comment: 'I have been awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queens Birthday Honours. The citation reads 'for work undertaken as volunteer lead in the village during the COVID19 crisis'. I was nominated by people in the village who have recognised my involvement. Obviously my success and this honours relied on an exceptional group of people who have worked with me and it is to them I owe a vote of thanks. I have accepted the honour in the spirit it has been presented. I feel elated and humble in equal measure. Such a surprise.'

Fen Ditton has joined with five other parish councils to object to the North East Cambridge Area Action Plan proposals as put forward in the consultation.

Please read on for the text of the letter, which is signed by the Parish Council Chairs of Milton, Histon and Impington, Landbeach, Teversham, Horningsea and Fen Ditton.

The government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme (GBVS) – to help homes and businesses in rural areas install a gigabit-capable, full-fibre connection to their premises when part of a group scheme – is now in its second phase and remains open for new applications until 31 March 2021 (or until the funding runs out).

Please read on for further details.

Fen Ditton has joined with eight other parish councils, including the villages that would be most directly affected by all three sites proposed by Anglian Water for relocation of the waste water works, to object to the site selection and consulation process used.

Please read on for the text of the letter, which is signed by the Parish Council Chairs of Milton, Histon & Impington, Lode, Landbeach, Teversham, Stow-cum-Quy, Horningsea, Little Wilbraham & Six Mile Bottom, and Fen Ditton.

The Parish Council has formally objected to the inclusion of site 3 (Honey Hill) as a possible site for relocation of Anglian Water's wastewater treatment plant. Please click here to view the text of its objection letter.

The public consultation remains open till Monday 14 September (deadline extended from 19 August), and the related NECAAP consultation is open till 5pm on Monday 5 October.

You should have received a leaflet describing the Greater Cambridge Partnership's public consultation on draft plans for a new city district in North East Cambridge during the week of 27th July. However,  no delivery is ever perfect and it seems that some households were missed.

If you do not receive a leaflet, please phone 0800 6444 011 or email scdc@smartdistribution.co.uk and one will be posted to you.

The consultation closes on 5 October.

Anglian Water has extended phase one of the consultation period on the relocation of their water treatment works till 14 September.

Please read on for their full statement.

An item of jewellery has been found on the Rec. If you think it might be yours, please contact the Parish Clerk.

Installation of the jetty under the railway bridge, to connect the footpath between Stourbridge Common and Ditton Meadows, is now scheduled to take place from 13th to 26th August. During this period there will be some river closures and some disruption on Fen Road, Chesterton. Most of the work is planned to be carried out during the day, but there will be two occurrences of night working.

Please read on for details of the expected dates.

Representatives of Anglian Water will be attending this evening's meeting of the Parish Council to answer questions on the relocation of the Waste Water Treatment Plant. Please read on for the questions the council will be asking them and for details of how to attend the meeting, which will be held online, by Zoom.

The fire brigade was called by High Ditch residents at around 19.30 today after spotting a fire in the field off High Ditch Road. Fortunately one resident had the number of the farmer who gave access to the gate. The farmer later attended with equipment to break up the hay to allow the fire tender to put the fire out. This is the second fire in this field in recent years.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership is running a public consultation on draft plans for a new city district in North East Cambridge – which could create 8,000 homes and provide space for 20,000 jobs over the next 20-plus years – and they now want to know what residents and businesses think of the draft plans.

The consultation closes on 5 October.

Please read on for more details.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership recently launched a period of engagement on their Cambridge Eastern Access project. The project seeks to improve transport to the east of Cambridge and make journeys more sustainable for people who live and travel in the area.

Due to the current Covid-19 situation and the need for social distancing they are unable to speak to people face to face so the engagement is taking place online. This project is at an early stage and they are keen to hear the views of as many people as possible to feed into some route options that will go to the Executive Board later this year. A public consultation would then follow, subject to the Executive Board’s approval to proceed.

Please visit the project website to send your views, either by filling in a survey or by dropping a pin and comment onto the map. The engagement period closes at midday on Monday 3 August.

FDPC is aware that work has been going on on the land next to Browns Field (on Grassy Corner) and that there have been earth-moving lorries going through the village to the site. We understand that the owner is in contact with the District Council and the Environment Agency to resolve their concerns. If any parishioners have further issues to raise with FDPC they should please contact the Clerk.

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is running a public consultation on the options for the A10 in an ‘online exhibition room’ here.

Options A-C see the A10 striking off west of the A10 and separating Landbeach from Milton and from Waterbeach. These routes also separate Milton from its cemetery off Butt Lane. Further north, Option A diverts around Stretham to the west and option B does the same but to the east.

Option D takes a completely new line, west of Landbeach, Stretham and Little Thetford, arriving at the BP roundabout on the A10/A142 interchange. Options E-G dual the A10 on its current alignment from Milton to Waterbeach with varying degrees of junction improvements along the way.

Please take the time to look at the options and respond to the consultation by 5pm on Tuesday 14 July.

Anglian Water has launched the first of three phases of a consultation process on the relocation of its water treatment works from the Cowley Road site. One of the three possible areas they have identified where the new site could be located is between Fen Ditton and Horningsea.

This phase of the consultation closes on 19 August.

Please read on for more details.

Fen Ditton Parish Council is receiving help with our speed watch efforts in the form of a mobile vehicle-activated sign (MVAS) and need help with operating the equipment.

We are currently in the process of identifying suitable locations for the sign, the prime areas being Ditton Lane, Horningsea Road close to the school, and High Ditch Road.

Volunteers are needed to help locate and move the equipment, change the batteries, and monitor the data captured. If you are interested, please contact the clerk.

Please read on for more details of the scheme.

Please read on for a message of thanks from Bridget Smith, Leader of South Cambridgesire District Council.

Meet some of the splendid characters who adorned Fen Ditton's streets during yesterday's 'Any type of scarecrow' competition:

Congratulations and thanks to everyone who took part.

Norfolk Street Bakery will be selling bread, cakes, pastries and a selection of groceries for collection near the church between 11.00 and 11.30am on Saturday 9th May. Pre-orders only, which must be placed by 11am on Friday 8th. Please click here for this week's price list and more details.

Veg van details for this week to follow.

Enjoy a picnic at home for a shared moment of celebration with others in Fen Ditton of 75 years of peace in Europe on the anniversary of VE Day on 8th May.

There will be a sing-along at 3pm. Please click here for more details, the songs and a Union flag that you can print out and wave - or make into colourful bunting to decorate your home.

UPDATE On Bank Holiday Friday 8th May, judging will also take place for an 'Any Type of Scarecrow' competition. Put him/her in front of your home with a chance to win a bottle of champagne  - and a toilet roll!

Want to talk in these socially distanced days? Feel like chatting to an interested listener?

Call the listening post (01223 295927) between 5.00pm and 6.00pm any day to connect with a friendly, listening ear in Fen Ditton.

If you think you need a bit more than a conversation with a neighbour, remember the Samaritans and the NHS are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:

• Samaritans: Call 116 123
• NHS Mental Health Helpline: Call 111 (selecting option 2)

The Gardening Club had hoped to hold its Annual Plant Sale on Saturday 16th May but, as the restrictions on gatherings due to COVID 19 have not been lifted, they have had to cancel the sale.

Residents in Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire are being asked to put their green bins out on their normal days from Monday 4 May as part of a phased reintroduction of garden waste collections.

Households would usually have two green bin collections between 4 and 30 May but, due to the impact of national social distancing measures, only one collection will be guaranteed. Crews will try to empty more bins on each occasion if they can.

For clarity, households can check their online bin collection calendar to find out their guaranteed green bin collection date. In addition, Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Service crews may be able to collect some green bins more frequently than this - when there are enough staff and vehicles. Putting your green bin out with your blue bin every fortnight will mean it is available for them to empty if they are able to.

For Fen Ditton, the guaranteed dates are 22 May and 19 June (both Fridays).

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a virus called coronavirus. This blog from Public Health England describes things you can do to protect yourself and others, with links to further sources of information

For updates, see the NHS dedicated coronavirus webpage

Please click on the links below for advice on procedures to follow:

For clients

• Safety and payment advice to clients on receiving goods from their helper

For volunteers

• Advice to volunteers paking payment for goods delivered to clients
• Procedure for deliveries to clients
• Dog walking safety procedure

South Cambridgeshire District Council is constantly updating its webpages giving information about how the outbreak is affecting services during this period and on the support available to residents.

Cambridgeshire County and Peterborough City Councils issued an update to parishes on 23 March covering various issues and changes to services related to COVID-19.

Please read on for more (some sections, e.g. relating explicitly to Peterborough, have been omitted).

Fen Ditton Parish Council has published its website accessibility statement...

The Cambridgeshire Coronavirus Community Fund is open to constituted community organisations throughout Cambridgeshire (including Peterborough), who are supporting isolated older and vulnerable people at this time.

Grants between £1,000 and £5,000 will be considered (larger grants may be available for groups working in partnership). We aim for the process to take between 5 and 10 days.

The focus of the fund will be to offer community organisations emergency funding to deal with emerging issues in the community, affecting older people (aged 60 and over) and other vulnerable people (high risk, pre-existing medical conditions), as a result of the continuing threat of Covid-19. This will include; the need for self-isolation, financial hardship, potential for hunger, lack of shelter, further exacerbation of health issues, loneliness and isolation of these people.

To be eligible to apply your project must support older people or other vulnerable people and help to:

• Supporting ongoing needs of people, to ensure that their well-being is maintained,

• Reduce isolation and vulnerability during any isolation period that may arise as a result of the threat of Covid-19,

• Any initiative that will help ensure people remain, safely connected with the outside world during this time.

Example projects might include:

• Tackling the impacts of financial hardship.

• Enabling people to keep warm by accessing home heating oil or warm clothes.

• Enabling people to access a nutritious meal by connecting them to services providing groceries, and/or ready-made meals.

• Enabling and encouraging people to use and access technology to keep them connected to the outside world.

• Reaching out to isolated people by telephone, and befriending if possible.

• Enabling home education for children and young people.

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply

• Constituted organisations based in Cambridgeshire.

• Parish, Town, District, City and County Council teams.

• Partnerships - we want to support community groups working together; particularly in smaller geographical communities. We will therefore encourage a partnership approach, and one application from one lead organisation, rather than a number of separate applications.

• Groups who already have live projects or pending applications.

• Repeat applications under the same fund for continuation of projects that are proving to work well.

What can be supported within the fund themes?

• Running costs for organisations to provide such support, including volunteer expenses, staff costs, and transport; providing the organisation is focusing their attention on providing support to both existing, and any potential new beneficiaries

• Small capital costs are eligible, providing the capital item will address the priorities of the fund, and is linked to keeping the older person connected to the outside world

The fund will not support:

• Applications from individuals

• Purchase of vehicles

• Holiday schemes

• Events, parties, trips and initiatives based upon mass gatherings

• Promotion of religion, this includes organisations whose main purpose includes advancement of religion

• Party political activity

To support this fund

We welcome any support you can give at this time. Online donations can be made on our JustGiving page.

If you wish to arrange a BACS transfer, please contact info@cambscf.org.uk for details.

Thank you for your support.

Thank you!

A sincere thank you to everyone who has donated to the appeal already, including all the members of the public who have donated via JustGiving.

Other key donors:

£100,000 Cambridgeshire County Council

£50,000 National Emergencies Trust appeal

£10,000 The Cambridge Building Society

£10,000 Chadwyck-Healey Charitable Trust

£500 Redgate Software

£250 Stuart & Brenda Evans

£1,000 Martin & Sally Roach

£250 Erin Coppin

£1,000 Michael Albutt

£500 J&J Wilsher

£500 Neil McKittrick

£150 Lola & Family

Funded Projects

The first round of funded projects will be announced very soon.

Due to the impacts of the virus and restrictions on movement, the Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Service has closed the recycling points for the time being. Many of the operators who empty clothing and other recycling banks are unable to collect from them so, to avoid them overflowing and making a mess, and the items being wasted, please postpone taking your items to the banks until further notice.

There are further service updates from SCDC and the Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Service on Facebook.

The Parish Council's spring newsletter is now ready but, as of yesterday evening's announcement from Downing Street, we do not know whether or when it will be possible to get it printed and circulated in physical form. However, you can read it online straight away by clicking here.

We would like the information in it to be available to everyone in the parish as soon as possible. So please pass this message on to others who may not visit this site regularly; in particular, if you are supporting anyone in the parish without access to a computer, please consider printing out a copy for them.

Thank you very much.

Fen Ditton Friends

Abbey People
 

Cambridgeshire County and Peterborough City Councils issued an update to parishes on 23 March covering various issues and changes to services related to COVID-19.

Please read on for the full text.

With the restaurant now closed, the Gourmet Burger team from Steak & Honour is coming to Fen Ditton on Wednesday 25th March 1700–2000 outside the Village Hall, Church Street.

The Ancient Shepherds will be providing take-aways from 5pm to 7pm Wednesday to Saturday inclusive.

The Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Service, a partnership between Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire District Councils, has made the decision to suspend green bin collections across Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire between Monday 23 March and Monday 4 May in order to support staff and the recycling and waste service as a whole during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Please read on for the full press release, which includes instructions for dealing with waste if your household is displaying symptoms of coronavirus.

The Parish Council is working with a team to setup up a local support group to assist vulnerable groups in the village. We hope to have this up and running in a few days, once we have the necessary procedures in place, and will give more details on the website as soon as possible.

A public consultation on the proposed Cambridgeshire Autonomous Metro is now under way and will continue unitl 3 April.

Please read on for more details, including a draft illustrative map.

The village has benefited from the Three Free Tree scheme which was funded by South Cambs District Council.

Thanks to a special offer at the nursery we did in fact end up with four trees for the price of three, which included supporting stakes, ties and protective strips.

It took some time to find a suitable location, we decided on the east end of the recreation ground to add some further interest to a much used area. We had to ensure that we avoided the power lines, not obstructing the sports areas, or future access to the rear of the cemetery, while allowing for potential growth, but we managed.

Three of the trees are Sorbus and one native Small Leafed Lime. The Sorbus grows large bunches of glossy bright red berries great for the birds in winter. So doing our bit for the wildlife.

The Sorbus can grow up to 6m x 3m over 20 years, and the Lime 20m x 10m over 25 years or more.

The landownThe high winds have blown a tree down along Wadloes foot/cycle path. It is completle blocking the pathway but it is possible to get round it.

The landowner will be informed first thing Monday, in the mean time careful getting round it.

South Cambridgeshire District and Cambridge City Councils are working together to prepare a joint Local Plan for the Greater Cambridge area. This will look at how Greater Cambridge will develop up until 2040 and beyond – including where homes will be built, new jobs located, what education facilities are needed and how people can get around. One of the first stages is an Issues and Options consultation for people to have their say.

The consultation is now open until 5pm on Monday 24 February 2020. Please read on for details of how to view the documents and make comments.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority would like to hear your views on how bus services could be improved to strengthen Cambridgeshire and Peterborough as a leading place to live learn and work. Whether you are a regular bus user, or not, they would love to hear your thoughts to create a vision for transport services in 2030.

Please read on for more details.

Hill and Marshall look forward to welcoming you to this drop-in event from 5.30pm on 3rd December to talk to the project team and to learn about the latest proposals.

Please read on for more details and a map.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership is now consulting on its proposals for the Bottisham, Swaffham and Horningsea Greenways, which include sections through Fen Ditton. The Greenways are routes to improve cycle, walking and equestrian links from villages around Cambridge into the city. Please click here to view their consultation leaflet, which includes maps of the proposals.

They will be holding a drop-in event at the Recreation Ground Pavilion, Church Street from 6 to 8pm on 3rd October, when you can view the plans in more detail, ask questions, and collect a questionnaire (which you can also download by clicking here). 

You can also complete the consultation online. The closing date is 28th October 2019.

Work on the Chisholm Trail is already under way, including some works on Ditton Meadows.

The bridge itself is being fabricated off-site in Yorkshire, and on-site works on its structure will start this summer. These will necessitate the closure of the jetty under the railway bridge, partial closure of the river and full closure of the river to all access for a few hours at a time. The date and exact timings of the closures will be confirmed on signage by the jetty and on routes to the area; they are expected to be in August 2019 and running through to Summer 2020, although the path will be re-opened sooner if possible.

The works will involve the use of heavy machinery and the team apologises in advance for the noise.

For more details please click here.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Jason Ablewhite would like your views on his proposal to build a major new police station for the south of the county on the outskirts of Milton, Cambridge, next to the Milton Park and Ride site.

Please click here for more details, to view the plans, and to have your say on the preferred location.

The consultation will close on Friday 19th July (extended from 5th July).

The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority are developing a Local Transport Plan (LTP) on the future of the area’s transport network to 2050.

Please read on for more details and for a link to have your say on the draft LTP.

The consultation will close on Friday 27th September.

Stagecoach is making it their mission to transform the bus experience for their customers and make bus a viable first choice for everyone in the area and are asking members of the public to give their views on the Guided Busway services.

Please click here to take part in their consultation, which closes on Sunday 21st July.

Since the letter that was delivered to residents recently, it has been confirmed that the contractors' working hours on widening the path will be roughly 7.30am to 4pm, with a diversion route via Ditton Lane between these times.

However, the path will not be closed 24/7 but will be reopened at the end of each day and at weekends (and from 12 noon during the Bumps). It is also likely that the works will be completed in less than the 8 weeks mentioned in the letter.

Work will be carried out during the weeks commencing 6th to 20th May and will involve some overnight road closures with diversions. Please read on for further details from the Greater Cambridge Partnership team. The updates are in colour.

Tickets for this event are now on sale online (see below) and will soon be available directly through individuals in the village.

The evening will start at 7.30pm with streamed music to get the evening under way. For guests to get the full benefit of the screen, the film will start once the sun goes down and natural daylight has gone at about 9.15pm. The evening will finish at the end of the screening at about 11.30pm. We would love to see you there.

Hot food available from 7.30pm to 9pm.

For more details and tickets, please click here.

In aid of the Pavilion and Community Room development fund

The Parish Council has received an update from the County Highways department on the progress and next steps for the work on the cycleway.

Please read on for the full text.

At the end of next week/beginning of w/c 25 March, the temporary traffic lights will be moved south of the junction, which should ease things a bit traffic-wise for the majority of Fen Ditton residents. The contractors will then be carrying out drainage gulley works in the area near the west side car park (north of Fison Road). Next week the project team will carry out a letterdrop to residents on both sides of the road along that stretch to inform them of the works and any likely impact on their movements.

Further ahead, the project team are planning closures on Ditton Lane/Horningsea Road in mid to late April (after Easter). These closures will be for the resurfacing works, and can only take place when the A14 is not shut between Stow and Milton. Hence they will be overnight, probably 8.00pm to 6.00am and probably over a 4- or 5-night period. The team will do a letterdrop to the whole village when they have definite information.

The contractors will be taking out the old path at the back of the Green today (digging it up and putting down seeded top soil) and removing the barriers, which should improve visibility for drivers. The new path will be usable – it is currently at binder level and will have the final surfacing done when other surfacing is carried out next month.

The traffic management this week is going to be the same as last week, i.e. 3-way lights from 9.30am to 3.30pm, which means further daytime closures on High Ditch Road. Keeping it open would require 4-way or 5-way traffic lights, which is not allowed by the Street Works department as it would lead to even more congestion. Although Street Works are the ones who give permission to carry out the roadworks, they are not responsible for the works (or the length of time they take) or the traffic management itself. They may be contacted on street.works@cambridgeshire.gov.uk if you need any further information.

We understand that all efforts will be made this week to finish the junction works so that High Ditch Road can open fully by Friday afternoon.

The latest news is the contractors would prefer High Ditch Road to be closed during the day (9.30am to 3.30pm) whilst works in and around the main junction are ongoing. Their line is that it eases congestion and the impact of the temporary lights on traffic going in and out of Cambridge. The contractor assured us that these works should be completed by the end of this week so High Ditch Road should be fully open from close of play on Friday.

We have just heard from the project team at the County Council that High Ditch Road will open tomorrow (Friday 8th March) and be open over the weekend. It will need to be closed again between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Monday (11th) to allow for the tarmacking of the footways. It will then open again but ...

BT are expected to arrive on Tuesday (12th) to move the telegraph poles and carry out some cabling work. These works will involve 5-way temporary traffic lights which may cause significant congestion but the phases on Blue Lion Close, the High Street and High Ditch Road will be kept to a minimum. It is not known yet whether High Ditch Road will need to be closed again to enable the BT works to be done.

There will be last minute Wing update  presentation at tonights PC Meeting from the developer Hill. 

All members of the public are welcome to come along. 

The Greater Cambridge Urban Extension Project has issued a booklet with ideas and option for the NE Cambridge area redevelopment. Click here for link

For the most part this will not affect Fen Ditton other than maybe our view over the river Cam. However, on page 11 of the booklet a bridge has been drawn which may land on the tow path close to Fen Ditton, north of the planned cycle/foot bridge next to the rail bridge.

High Ditch Road will remain closed until 4th March.

Please read on for more details.

Footpath 9, which runs from High Ditch Road across the old railway line to the Park and Ride, will be closed from 18th February to 17th August for archaeological investigations.

As expected, a detailed planning application has been submitted for the Wing development. The full description of the application is 'Erection of a two-storey, 2 Form Entry Primary School to accommodate 420 pupils with a 52-place nursery, creation of new accesses for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians, car park, landscaping and associated infrastructure.' At this stage it is open for consultation and comments. The planning reference number is S/0064/19/CC.

Here is a link to the application. 

High Ditch Road is to be closed to motor vehicles from 14 January for 3 weeks at the junction with Ditton Lane. Vehicle access to High Ditch Road will be via Newmarket Road.  The closure is to allow for drainage works and the construction of a raised table junction in relation to the cycleway.

UPDATE: Owing to difficult utility issues at the crossroads (ducts and pipes need lowering and moving but some of it cannot be done till BT have completed other work and the BT poles can then be moved), the junction into High Ditch Road will remain closed for longer than originally planned. It is expected to be open again by Friday 15 February.

The county council has informed us that, during December, the contractors are not permitted to undertake roadworks on the carriageway that require temporary traffic lights (the 'Christmas embargo'). The work is continuing but has shifted to off-road locations such as the village green and the verges round Fison Road.

During particularly cold (when temperatures are O°C or below for three consecutive nights) or severe weather that could increase the risk of harm to people sleeping rough, South Cambridgeshire District Council will provide accommodation to rough sleepers. Please click here for more details, including contact details for accessing this.

Assistant Development Surveyor from Hill, Oliver Mealey, came to the Parish Council meeting on 6th November to give an update and presentation on the Wing development off Newmarket Road.

Phase 1a will include about 252 homes, a community building with a hall, cafe, nursery, a food store and other commercial space. Work on the infrastructure is expected to start before the end of 2018, with the first homes becoming available in 2020.

Please click here to view the presentation, which includes maps and visualisations of the areas included in this first stage.

The Parish Council has just received the following update from the county council's Senior Project Officer for the works:

The contractors will be switching their works back over to the footway south of the main school entrance at some point during the day on Friday 9th. This means that the footway will be closed on that side and they will divert pedestrians via the permanent pedestrian crossing at High Ditch Rd to use the footway on the ‘other’ (east) side of the road to then proceed northwards adjacent to the field. 

A temporary pedestrian crossing facility will be placed at the site of the proposed permanent new crossing north of the school for the duration of the footway closure so as to maintain two safe controlled crossing locations for parents to access the school.

In connection with the construction of the cycle lane and associated works, the county council has made an Order which will stop any traffic from travelling along Ditton Lane, High Street, Horningsea Road and High Ditch Road in all directions within about 100m of the crossroads. Access will be maintained to properties affected, and for the emergency services.

The Order lasts from 12 November 2018 until the work is complete. It is anticipated that works requiring the closure will be carried out between 12 and 14 November, and between 7 January and 15 February 2019.

Please click here for more details.

UPDATE 7/11 We have just heard that the drainage work which was expected to require the road closure in November will not be going ahead on those dates.

There have been a number of reports of vehicle theft and damage to cars and vans recently, including in Stanbury Close and the Ditton Lane car park.

If you have any information regarding these crimes or see anyone acting suspiciously, please report it on the non-emergency number 101, or call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The County Council's website includes a page giving details of coming and upcoming roadworks in the area. Please click here and zoom in to Fen Ditton for up-to-date information about the works on Ditton Lane and Horningsea Road over the next two weeks, and use the box at top right to select dates to check further ahead.

As in past years, the Fen Ditton fireworks and bonfire will be held on the Rec on Friday evening. The gates will open at 6.30, and the fireworks will start at 7pm.

Mulled wine and other refreshments will be on sale (proceeds to the Recreation Ground Trust), and the fish and chip van will be attending.

There will be a collection on the gates.

Peak-time congestion along High Ditch Road is particularly bad at the moment during the roadworks and 40mph speed limit on the A14 westbound, sometimes leading to gridlock at the crossroads. To improve the flow of traffic at the junction, the county highways team have put out no-waiting cones to prevent parking at the crossroads and up to no. 1 High Ditch Road, and are arranging for temporary double yellow lines to be put in shortly.

The county council's Senior Project Officer for the works currently being done along Horningsea Road and Ditton Lane has updated the Parish Council on how they will affect the footpaths this month. Please read on for the details.

The Parish Council has just learned that the delayed work on the Cross-City scheme along Ditton Lane and Horningsea Road, including construction of a new toucan crossing near the school, is due to start on Tuesday 28th August and is expected to run until Spring 2019. During the first two weeks, the contractors will be setting up and carrying out investigation works. Temporary traffic signals will be in operation during working hours.

UPDATE 30/8 The work is now expected to start on Monday 3rd September. Investigation works will begin near the primary school on Monday, with the aim of completing them in the immediate area before the start of term on Wednesday.

Further details of the scheme and the timetable for the work are on the Greater Cambridge Partnership website.

Cadent will be carrying out essential works in the road between 14th and 20th August to connect properties to the gas network. There will be traffic controls (give and take) and it is expected that delays will be unlikely.

If you smell gas, please contact 0800 111 999

Starting on 28th July, the operators of the service between Waterbeach and Cambridge, through Horningsea and Fen Ditton, will change from Whippet to Stagecoach following re-tender of the contract. As a result, the journeys will operate with different numbers and a different timetable, and there will be only one off-peak journey in each direction - please read on for further details.

We have been given last minute notice that High Ditch Road will be closed from 08:00hrs on 16 June 2018. This is in the interest of safety because of emergency overhead cabling works and will remain effective whilst there is a risk of public danger but not for more than 21 days. It is anticipated that the works will take place between 08:00hrs and 16:00hrs on 16 June 2018.

Please read on for the full notice.

A very big thank you to everyone who supported Sunday morning’s event through donations, helping out on the day and taking part.

We had a successful day, with fantastic weather and 185 registrants in the end. The start line on the Rec and the movement of the group along Church Street made a fine spectacle.

After the event, food was enjoyed courtesy of George and Paul on the barbecue and Emily managing the ice cream parlour. Teas, coffees and cakes were provided by the Church Community Hall group led by Pamela Hutt.

We were pleased with the organisation on the day; all went smoothly and the feedback was positive.

We are yet to receive notice of the amount raised through registrations and T-shirt sales after the event organisers’ expenses, but expect this to be in the region of £600. Car park fees and food sales on the day made a net profit of £114.

As a result of the elections to South Cambridgeshire District Council on 3rd May, the representatives of the Fen Ditton and Fulbourn ward will be

• John Williams (Lib Dem)
• Claire Daunton (Lib Dem)
• Graham Cone (Con)

Congratulations to the successful candidates, and many thanks to Robert Turner for all his hard work as district councillor for The Wilbrahams ward (which included Fen Ditton) over the past 15 years.

The Parish Council and Cam Conservators are aware that swans are nesting in the 'dock' area at the end of High Street. Please stay away from the nest and keep your dogs under control in this area to avoid disturbing the swans, which - like all nesting birds - are protected by law (the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981).

Anyone with concerns about the swans' safety or welfare is advised to contact the Royal Swan Marker.

High Ditch Road was closed on Sunday morning to repair overhead phone lines. On site engineers estimate the road will be open early afternoon.

Well done to an enterprising resident who took the opportunity to cut back some of the overgrown hedgerow on the approach to the bridge. 

You are warmly invited to an open meeting to discuss developments concerning Fen Ditton church and hall at 10am on Saturday 24th March at St Mary's Church, Church Street.

Sadly, the vintage advertising signs on a barn in High Street were stolen between the evening of Wednesday 14th March and Thursday morning. The signs have great sentimental value, and they are part of the village’s heritage and recognised as local landmarks.

If you have any information about the incident or saw people acting suspiciously in the area, please contact the police. Call 101 quoting CF0139220318 or visit www.cambs.police.uk/report. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Tickets are still available for the Wine & Cheese Tasting on Friday 23rd March at 7.00pm at the Church Community Hall. This event and the supporting Spring Raffle are being held in aid of the Pavilion Development Fund.

For tickets please contact the Parish Clerk, and arrangements will be made locally for ticket delivery/collection.

Thank you to everyone who has purchased tickets and supporting these events.  We are looking forward to a great evening.

The ‘Fen Ditton 5 Mile’ event taking place from 10.30am on Sunday 20th May is now open for registrations. The event is being run by Involved Events in association with the Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Trust in aid of the Pavilion Development Fund.

Please read on for more details of the event and of how to register.

South Cambridgeshire District Council will be holding the first Waterbeach Community Forum at Waterbeach Baptist Church, Chapel Street, Waterbeach, CB25 9HR (not St John's Church Rooms), on 14th March, with a drop-in session from 6 to 6.45pm followed by a formal meeting from 7 to 9pm. The event is open to all and will be an opportunity to find out more about development in Waterbeach and the surrounding area and to ask questions. Topics include the Supplementary Planning Document and Local Plan, updates from the developers, and the Ely to Cambridge A10 Transport Study.

Amey Cespa are planning to hold informations sessions about the proposed new waste treatment facility at Waterbeach Waste Management Park on 19th and 20th March.

CBWIN (Cambridge Without Incineration) will be holding a public meeting to hear the case for the waste incinerator and the case against on Tuesday 20th March.

Please read on for details of all these events.

A Classic Wine Tasting and Cheese evening, including the draw for the Spring Raffle, will be held at the Church Community Hall on Friday 23rd March. These events have been organised by the fund-raising sub-committee of the Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Trust, and all profits will go to the Pavilion Development Fund.

Please read on for more details, including how to obtain tickets.

There will be a new class in this year's Village Show - Class 28, Village Display - the best floral container (hanging basket, tub, windowbox, etc.) in Fen Ditton village. Entry is open to every household in Fen Ditton. No notification is necessary and the container must be visible from the road.

The class will be judged by Gardening Club Committee members during the weekend of 14th-15th July and the winner will be announced at the Village Show on Saturday 8th September.

Good luck everyone!

The Parish Council is delighted that the last of Fen Ditton’s three new noticeboards has now been installed, close to the Recreation Ground gate on Church Street. Its two outer panels will be used for Parish Council and Recreation Ground Trust notices (including the sports clubs), and the centre, open panel is for public use.

The Greater Cambridge Partnership's Greenways project aims to establish a high-quality network of walking, cycling and equestrian routes linking local villages with Cambridge city. There are twelve Greenways planned in total, one of which - the Horningsea Greenway - could complete the link from Fen Ditton School to the existing Horningsea Road cycle path and widen Wadloes footpath.

The Cambridge Greenways team is holding a public info-sharing event at Horningsea Pavilion from 5.30 to 7.30pm on Tuesday 27th February and welcomes comments from residents.

You can also view the initial suggestions for the Horningsea Greenway here. Please click here for more detail about the project, the other Greenways and a link to the team’s online survey.

The Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Trust has set up a charity donations page through Virgin Money Giving, on which you can make one-off or regular monthly donations securely by either card or PayPal. Individuals can also use the page to raise money for the Trust through their own sponsored events. The webpage is now live, and the Trust appreciates and welcomes all donations - your support is highly valued.

You can also support the Pavilion Development Fund when you shop online through easyfundraising.

You can now support the Fen Ditton Pavilion Development Fund when you shop online. The Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Trust has registered with easyfundraising to raise funds for the Pavilion and welcomes donations. It won’t cost you a penny extra so please help us to raise funds.

Your support is highly valued – please read on for details of how to get started.

Those of you keeping your eyes on parish council meetings may have noticed that councillors have been attending meetings on the proposed developments at Waterbeach, with more to come. 

Odd, you may think, as Waterbeach is a fair distance from Fen Ditton. However, councillors are concerned that the B1047 (Horningsea Road/Ditton Lane) could become more of a rat run from Waterbeach in the future. We have probably all experienced the nose-to-tail traffic down Ditton Lane during busy periods. 

Fortunately, the County Council and other partners are all on the same page, with proposals to upgrade the A10 being proposed in a new report, the Ely to Cambridge A10 Transport Study. However, we have spotted in one of the documents that even with the maximum-expenditure approach (dual carriageway Ely-Cambridge plus other mitigation) a 21% increase in weekday evening peak traffic on the B1047 is still predicted by the traffic modelling - although this approach would result in a 36% reduction in the morning peak traffic.

You can read more in the Cambridge News and on the Greater Cambridge website. The full A10 Transport Study reports can be seen here.

Work on these was expected to start this month but the Parish Council has recently heard that the dates have been put back to summer 2018, which will allow for construction to take place during the school holidays.

In what seems likely to be the final commemorative event in the year of the FD800 celebrations, Fen Ditton's church bells rang out for over three hours yesterday. The peal of 5056 changes of Plain Bob Major was 'Rung to celebrate the 800th Anniversary of the earliest known historical record of the Parish of Fen Ditton'. The bell ringers were all from the surrounding area and included four members of the regular Fen Ditton band.

Many thanks to all the decorators - official and unofficial - who have made the Village Green and the area around the crossroads look even more festive than usual this year!

Unfortunately, few if any people in Fen Ditton received the leaflet advertising last weekend's exhibition about the Wing development. Hill Residential values your opinions and wants to ensure that everyone surrounding the development is kept well informed and up to date with the progress of Wing, so they are holding a repeat public consultation event on Wednesday 13th December from 4 till 8pm at the Recreation Ground Pavilion, Church Street.

It is hoped that you will be able to attend to find out more from the development team and to comment on the Design Code.

Some residents may have visited the public exhibition at the Pavilion last weekend. This was organised by Hill Residential to introduce the design code they are working on to guide development across the whole site of the Wing development off Newmarket Road.

If you were not able to attend, the display boards can be seen by clicking here.

One of the Willys Almshouses on Church Street will be available for rent in the autumn at a monthly charge of £443.

Expressions of interest are invited from single people who are over 50, able bodied and non-smokers and who currently reside in or have ties to the ecclesiastical parish of Fen Ditton.

A very big thank you to everyone who helped with the village tidy-up and litter pick on Saturday morning – and also to everyone who picks litter in between the organised tidy-ups. Your help really does make a difference and is much appreciated.

The public consultation on proposals for double yellow lines at the 'Blue Lion' crossroads and on two sections of High Ditch Road is now under way. The proposals are outlined on the Public Notices that are on display near to the crossroads and in the County Council's consultation letter and plan; these also give details of how to view the proposed Traffic Regulation Order, and of where to send any objections or comments. The closing date for the consultation is 15th November 2017.

The police have recently informed residents of a recent spate of crimes in the village, including two burglaries in High Ditch Road on Friday 27th October.

If you have any information regarding these crimes, or saw anyone acting suspiciously, please call 101. If you wish to remain anonymous please call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

After a public consultation and funding approval in 2016, work on the Greater Cambridge Partnership (formerly City Deal) improved cycle paths through Fen Ditton is now expected to start early in 2018.

The  Cross City cycling team will hold a pre-construction meeting shortly to update the public on the plans, and we are expecting a consultation on double yellow lines at the crossroads and along two sections of High Ditton Road to take place this autumn.

Please read on for more detail.

South Cambridgeshire District Council is changing the way used paper is collected from residents for recycling.

From 11 December, residents won’t need to use their caddies to recycle paper any more. From that date, residents should place their used paper directly into their blue wheelie bins instead. This used paper will still be recycled after being sorted from other materials at our facility near Waterbeach.

The October PC Meeting will begin 15 minutes early to give more time for a presentation and update from the Developers of Wing and the Principal Planning Officer for Wing. 

The County Council has reviewed its Children’s Centres provision and is planning to save £1 million by in some cases delivering services from existing community buildings such libraries and community centres, and closing some dedicated Children’s Centres.

Please click here to let the County Council know what you think about the plans, which are described in the consultation leaflet. The consultation is open until midday on Friday 22 September 2017.

Under the Audit Commission Act 1998 and the Accounts and Audit (England) Regulations 2011, any person interested has the right to inspect the Parish Council’s accounts and annual return. Fen Ditton Parish Council's annual return and accounting statement for the year ended 31st March 2017 may be viewed by clicking here.

The organisers of the Fen Ditton 800th anniversary celebration Medieval Fair outdid themselves arranging for perfect weather on Sunday, making the day’s event a fantastic success. Large crowds enjoyed the numerous performances, although there were a few battles which were soundly won by the younger swordsmen. As well as all the craft stalls and entertainments on offer, it provided an opportunity for all the visitors to see the work of community groups that are active in Fen Ditton.

The evening ceilidh was also very well attended in the warm evening air, followed by a fireworks display. Again, all amazingly well organised.

Thank you to everyone who shopped at Tesco Haverhill or who gave us tokens or receipts to take there. Your efforts were well rewarded as we have received a grant towards the costs of the fair.

Many local people and businesses have also made generous donations for the fair and they, and the Tesco grant, mean we have some wonderful stalls and entertainment with free entrance to all residents and friends.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, 27th August from 12 noon on the Recreation Ground.

Fen Ditton 800 Management Committee

This year sees the 800th anniversary of the first record of a church in Fen Ditton and hence a settlement here. The special events that are planned to celebrate this milestone in the village’s history include a big Medieval Fair on the Rec from 12 noon till 5pm on Sunday 27th August, with a wide range of displays and activities to reflect life through the 800 years, followed by a ceilidh and fireworks in the evening.

High Street, Horningsea, will be closed between 8am and 5pm on Monday 31st July in order to carry out an emergency manhole cover repair. A diversion via the A14 will be signposted.

Following the resignation of Wendy Irvin-Braben, there is now a vacancy on the Parish Council. As no election has been called, the vacancy will be filled by co-option.

If you are interested in becoming a councillor and would like to be considered or would like more information, please contact the Parish Clerk.

Following the tragic fire at Grenfell House in London, the SCDC Housing Portfolio Holder reported within days to district councillors about building cladding in South Cambridgeshire and answered further questions at the Scrutiny and Overview Committee on 6 July. Please click here to read the report.

The Greater Cambridge City Deal are holding a series of interactive drop-in exhibitions on a planned network of 12 walking, cycling and equestrian routes linking local villages and the city.

Please read on for dates and times, and a link to a leaflet with a map of all 12 routes.

The current weight limit for through traffic in Fen Ditton is 18 tonnes; this includes Horningsea Road, Ditton Lane and High Ditch Road. Government guidance indicates that lorries under this weight limit will never have more than two axles. So there should be NO multi-axle lorries passing through the village (there is an exemption for those needing to access properties within it).

Please read on for how to report overweight lorries and other problems involving the roads to the relevant authorities.

Following requests from residents, the Parish Council funded six solar stud lights in the surface of Wadloes footpath to replace that ones that had stopped working. The work was completed last week, with all the replacement lights now in place.

Fen Ditton Parish Council had no formal notice of this event taking place. It came to our attention as advanced notice letters were dropped through neighbouring residents’ doors earlier in the week. A very big thank you to everyone who was able to respond to the call for help to best mitigate fall-out from this event at short notice.

The Parish Council and the Recreation Ground Trust would like to join in thanking everyone who helped with the car parking and traffic management during the May Bumps last week, and especially all the residents who parked their own cars off the streets on Saturday. As a result, the traffic kept flowing through the village and the visiting cars were able to leave swiftly at the end of the day without the huge queues that sometimes occur.

The beautiful weather brought in even more visitors than usual, with the car parking over all four days raising a grand total of £2539.82 for the Rec Trust.

Fen Ditton 800 is bidding to bag a massive cash boost of £4,000, £2,000 or £1,000 from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative. It is one of the groups on the shortlist for voting by shoppers at the Haverhill store during May and June. Please use your tokens to vote for your local project!

Please read on for more information about Fen Ditton 800 and the Bags of Help scheme.

There have been a number of shed break-ins in the area recently, include several in Fen Ditton on 26th April. Please read on for advice from the police on ways to help keep your property secure and reduce the chance of your becoming a victim of crime

The police are investigating seven shed and garage burglaries that have been reported in the last 24 hours. These all appear to have been committed overnight last night (26th April) in Fen Ditton. Three were in High Street, two in Church Street and two in Green End. Where entry was gained, gardening equipment and tools were among the items stolen.

If you have any information about this, or if you discover that your property was targeted as well, please contact the police by calling 101.

A car ran into one of the traffic lights at the Horningsea Road pelican crossing over the holiday weekend. Workman were there all today replacing the light on the west side of the road. Unfortunately the temporary traffic lights caused long tailbacks in the area during the rush hour.

The police have issued reports of a number of crimes committed locally, one of them in Church Street, Fen Ditton.

The Recreation Ground Trust is delighted that the new and upgraded play equipment, bought with grants from Tesco's Bags of Help initiative and the Parish Council, has been installed on the Rec. Although the zip wire still needs tightening, the rest of the equipment is now open and proving very popular.

There will be opening celebrations from 11am on 8th April, organised by the Fen Ditton Toddler Group. All welcome - bring a picnic!

Please 'read' on for more photos of the new equipment.

An Outline Planning Application has been submitted for the redevelopment of the former barracks and airfield adjoining Waterbeach. The proposed development includes up to 6500 dwellings, a secondary school and three primary schools, plus areas for retail, recreation and community uses.

Please read on for details of opportunities for viewing the planning application locally.

This message from James Sutherland, Chief Inspector and Area Commander for South Cambridgeshire, gives information about the police's strategies on parking enforcement and village policing, including a new police webpage where you can report concerns over parking in the village.

The application for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Cam from Ditton Meadows was considered at a meeting of the Cambridgeshire County Council planning committee today at Shire Hall. 

All planning committee members voted in favour of the application. 

Please click here to see the full agenda, including comments from the Parish Council, or the full story in the Cambridge News.

You will have seen the leaflets and yellow posters that have appeared in the village advertising the change in Fen Ditton's bin collection day from Tuesdays to Fridays as from 27th February. The first Friday collection will be on 3rd March, when the blue and green bins will be collected.

The changes mean that after this week the next collection of black bins will not be until Friday 10th March. So don’t forget to put your black bin out for collection this Tuesday morning, and please remind your neighbours too.

This meeting will be held on on Wednesday 8th March.

Members of the public are welcome at Parish Council meetings, which take normally take place on the first Tuesday of the month and are held in the Recreation Ground Pavilion, Church Street.

The police have issued a report on two cars being broken into overnight on 5th January.

This meeting will be held on Tuesday 10th January.

Members of the public are welcome at Parish Council meetings, which take normally take place on the first Tuesday of the month and are held in the Recreation Ground Pavilion, Church Street.

The Parish Council has just been informed that this bus service (advertised in the October newsletter) will not be running after 14th January 2017, owing to the low numbers of people using it.

For further information, please contact the County Council's Passenger Transport Team on 0345 045 0675.

The police have developed an online test so that people can confirm how secure their property is from burglars.

Please read on for more details and to try the test for yourself.

Please read on for details of a local charity which provides a service to older or vulnerable people by improving home security to reduce crime and the fear of crime.

First, thank you to the volunteers who recently cleared leaf litter from some of most affected footpaths in the village. The District Council has been notified of the need for mechanical street cleaning on the roads and along Wadloes footpath.

County Council contractors will be working to improve the surface of the public footpath through the first field off Green End soon. The work will start on Monday 12th December and should be completed on Wednesday 15th December. This path was extremely muddy and difficult underfoot last winter so hopefully this will be an improvement.

Please continue to report any problems with roads, pavements and footpaths through the county's fault-reporting page.

The Recreation Ground Trust is delighted to have been awarded £10,000 from the recent voting event in Tesco's local stores. A big thank you to everyone who used their tokens to support Fen Ditton's project to improve the play area on the Rec.

Watch this space for more details of the planned improvements.

The Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Trust’s project to update the play sports equipment on the Rec has been chosen to receive £8000, £10 000 or £12 000 from this scheme, depending on shoppers’ votes at local Tesco stores.

Voting started on 31st October and continues until 13th November. Shoppers receive a token with each transaction, which they can use to vote between the three shortlisted projects. Please use your tokens to vote for your local project and help improve the play area.

Please read on for more information.

The Parish Council will be discussing a proposal to purchase one or more new noticeboards at its meeting on 6th December, and is holding a consultation to find out residents’ views. Please click here to take part in the consultation, which closes on 28th November.

A formal planning application for Phase 1 of the Chisholm Trail, which includes the section through Coldham's Common, Barnwell Junction Pastures and Ditton Meadows, has now been submitted and is open for comment on the County Council’s website.

The consultation period has recently been extended until Friday 7th October.

Please read on for more details.

The County Council has re-opened the planning application for the proposed foot and cycle bridge on Ditton Meadow for comments, so if you wanted to comment earlier but were unable to, there is still time.

Please click here for links to the application documents and an online form for commenting.

Any comments need to be submitted before 29th September.

The Greater Cambridge City Deal team wants your views on their eight-point plan to tackle peak-time congestion in Cambridge. The package of measures was approved in principle by the City Deal's Executive Board in July and feedback now will be used to help shape and improve the approach, with final recommendations due to be considered in January 2017.

The team is keen to hear any issues or concerns you may have about any particular elements so please click here to read more about the proposals and to take part in the consultation. The closing date is Monday 10th October.

At its meeting on 2nd August, the Parish Council discussed in detail the County’s planning application to build a joint pedestrian and cycle bridge near the railway bridge on Ditton Meadows. Although the current proposals have addressed some of the criticisms of the initial designs consulted on in July 2014, the Parish Council took the view that they still have many shortcomings.

Please read on for some of the points that are covered in the Parish Council's comments to the County Council and for details of an online petition to the City Council about the bridge, or click here to see our full response.

The County Council want to remind you that it's up to you to check when it does, and to get it renewed. If you don't and your pass has expired you will be refused free travel.

Passes can be renewed up to 6 weeks before their expiry date - please click here to do it online, or call the number printed on the back of your pass.

Bidwells have advised the Parish Council that contractors will be at Fen Ditton Meadows on Tuesday 2nd August and possibly Wednesday 3rd August to carry out works to the gateways. 

They are filling the holes and levelling them in an effort to stop them getting so muddy and churned up.

In a meeting on 9th June the Greater Cambridge City Deal Executive Board gave unanimous approved to the scheme for cycle paths along Horningsea Road and Ditton Lane along with four other schemes. The scheme does leave a small gap between the existing cycle path from Horningsea and the proposed new path, but in a response to Vince Farrar from FD Parish Council on the point, the Board said they would give consideration to this area as part of Tranche 2 of the City Deal.

The Board has delegated approval of the final scheme layout to the Executive Director of Economy, Transport and Environment at Cambridge County Council.

Here is a link to the full minutes of the meeting. The details are on page 20.

The full planning application for the pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Cam has now been submitted and is available on the Cambridgeshire County Council website. The application number is C/5005/16/CC.

Please click here for links to the application documents and an online form to comment on the application. The closing date for comments is 18th August 2016.

Some people have had difficulty in submitting the online form. If this is the case for you, you may also send in your comments by email, or by post to the planning department at Cambridgeshire County Council, Shire Hall, CAMBRIDGE, CB3 0AP.

Some keys have been found on the Rec recently. If you think they might be yours, please phone 07500 117224.

Local councils, including South Cambridgeshire District Council and Cambridgeshire County Council, want your views on a possible devolution deal for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. They have proposed a deal to Government that could see more decisions made in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough by a new organisation called a Combined Authority, with a locally elected Mayor. Currently, Government makes these decisions on Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s behalf.

They have voted to consult with the public on proposals that could impact on residents and businesses. By filling out the online survey your views will be taken into account by councillors and partners who are set to debate the issue later in the year.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England has been carrying out an electoral review of South Cambridgeshire District Council. It is now inviting comments on its draft recommendations, which include a reduction from 57 to 45 district councillors and that Fen Ditton would become part of a large ward formed by combining three existing wards, which would be jointly represented by three district councillors.

A mains sewage pipe has fractured at the pumping station on Green End, causing raw sewage to flow into Osier Holt. Engineering works have started but will extend into next week.

In the meantime, a convoy of specialist tankers are pumping and removing the sewage from the pumping station in Green End, and an area around Wrights Close has been coned off to ensure these large tankers can turn day and night.

When parking along High Street and Church Street, please consider the need for these lorries to pass through without difficulty on a 24-hour basis until further notice.

The Parish Council has just learned that Network Rail will be holding a public exhibition of initial options for the possible closure or change to public rights of way at level crossings in the Cambridge area today from 2pm to 7pm at Browns Field Youth and Community Centre, 31A Green End Road CB4 1RU. Network Rail and their consultants will be present to explain the options and take feedback. Please click here to see the flyer, which includes a map on its second page.

There is also an online survey on the initial proposals, which will be open until 8th July, to be followed by a second round of public consultation in August/September.

The police report that on Tuesday 7th May at around 7am an offender was seen breaking into a vehicle in High Ditch Road. The owner stopped him and he was subsequently arrested at the scene. His accomplice was arrested later in the day.

Traffic management on Ditton Lane between Fison Road and the Primary School will be in place during off-peak time from the 6 - 10 June. This is to enable trial holes to be dug as part of the investigative work necessary for the Cross City Cycling scheme. The TM will be from 9.30 to 15.30 only. Bore holes will also be made at the top of the bank, within the paddock, south of High Ditch Road.

Following the City Deal consultation by the Cycling Projects Team at Cambridgeshire County Council, they have now incorporated feedback into their revised proposals. The consultation was on the proposals to improve the cycling route along Horningsea Road and Ditton Lane. 

Prior to them going to a Comittee for approval to proceed they are presenting the changes at a special meeting of the Parish Council on the 25th May. This meeting is open to the public. 

In the election for South Cambs District Council yesterday, Robert Turner was re-elected as councillor for The Wilbrahams ward, which includes Fen Ditton. Please click here for more details.

The votes in the election for a Police and Crime Commissioner for the Cambridgeshire police area are still being counted. Please click here to see the results as they come in.

Thieves may be posing as genuine workers as they systematically strip lead from church roofs across Cambridgeshire, police believe. Following thefts from at least five churches in as many weeks, Cambridgeshire Police has asked the public to help thwart what are believed to be gangs of organised criminals exporting stolen metal by the container-load.

They are urging communities to be on the lookout for seemingly innocent workpeople in the vicinity of vulnerable churches, and not just in isolated locations.

High Ditch Road was closed for a time on Monday following a bad accident in the morning. One car appeared to have ended in the ditch while the other had major frontal area damage. There were other cars on the road but it was not clear if they were involved.

We have been advised by the police of a number of thefts of lead from church roofs locally over the past few weeks. The thefts are significant and have occurred at night, and it is extremely likely that the thieves will continue to target churches in the area until the price of lead drops.

If you notice any suspicious activity around the churchyard, such as vans or trailers visiting after dusk, please contact the police on 101 (or 999 if it is happening there and then) so that they have the opportunity to investigate.

After three hours of presentation and discussion at the meeting of the Joint Development Control Committee this morning, Marshall's outline planning application for the Wing development off Newmarket Road was approved, on a majority vote.

The Parish Council has been notified that Marshalls is applying for a temporary diversion of Fen Ditton footpath no. 9, to Newmarket Road, for three months from 6th June 6th September.

Please read on for more detail and a map.

Criminal damage was reported, Church Street, Fen Ditton. This occurred between Sunday 10th April and Monday 11th April. Offenders have attempted burglary at the sports pavilion at location.

In a welcome contrast to the dismal weather for the 'Clean for the Queen' event in March, the cemetery tidy-up last Saturday morning took place in bright sunshine. The cemetery is looking well tended and cared for, which is much appreciated by those who visit it. The daffodils, primroses and snowdrops have all looked particularly lovely this year, so thanks to everyone who has been involved in planting them in previous years. The new hedging, which was planted last autumn, is also thriving.

Please do not be worried that the information board by the churchyard wall has disappeared. It has not gone AWOL but been removed for restoration as its frame was found to be rotten. We look forward to seeing it refurbished and back in place soon.

Especially in the warm weather when people may have windows wide open, or be enjoying their gardens or drying washing outdoors, smoke from bonfires can cause inconvenience. Please consider your neighbours before deciding to have one.

Between 11:00 am and 2:24 pm on the 09/03/2016 on Church Street, Fen Ditton, unknown person(s) have forced the rear patio door off its hinges. Jewellery and electronics were reported stolen.

About two dozen volunteers braved the cold dank weather this morning (complete with sleet at one point) to take part in 'Clean for the Queen' in the run-up to the Queen’s 90th birthday on 21st April. We hope Her Majesty would be proud of Fen Ditton's contribution to what was billed to be 'the most monumental of all litter clear-ups’.

The County Council has recently reinstated the verge on the extension to High Street. To protect this area from damage by vehicles, the Parish Council has been given approval to install wooden posts to mirror those on the verge opposite. The existing posts that have fallen will also be replaced. The Parish Council intends to allow for natural re-growth of the verge and to maintain it as a semi-wild area.

It is expected that the contractors will undertake the installation of the wooden posts by the end of March 2016.

Just a quick reminder that the closing date for the City Deal’s consultation on their proposed Cross City Cycling projects (including one that would involve changes along Ditton Lane and Horningsea Road and to the junction with High Ditch Road and High Street) is Monday 15th February.

There was a good turn-out for the Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Trust’s consultation event on Wednesday evening, when between two and three dozen residents packed into the Pavilion to hear more about the Trust’s suggestions for refurbishing it and refreshing the equipment on the Rec, and to see and comment on the current drawings.

Please read on to see photos taken at the event, and for a link to view all the drawings that were on show and to give feedback.

A number of residents have expressed concern at finding dog faeces on the Rec, especially in the children's play area (where there should be no dogs at all, even on a lead). South Cambridgeshire District Council include the following information about dog fouling on their website:

‘Under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 it is generally an offence for anyone in charge of a dog to allow it to foul unless they clear it up. If there is a persistent problem with dog fouling in your area we have a number of options.

• We can investigate, issue warnings, fixed penalty notices or even prosecute persons in charge who fail to clear up after their dog, providing you know who that person is, have witnessed the incident and are prepared to give a statement and possibly go to court
• We can assess whether there are adequate facilities for the disposal of dog mess in the vicinity
• We can arrange for ad-hoc clearances of heavily fouled areas’.

If you wish to report an incident of dog fouling to the district council, please click here.

The Parish Council has just learned of a number of free events being run by the Bratton Group on behalf of Cambridgeshire County Council with funding from the Government Equalities Office. The aim is to help women grow or start up their own businesses by providing practical advice on IT and social media skills. To find out more and to book a place at one of the events, please click here. Note that places are limited, and that the events in Cambridge (which are being held on 22 February and 15 March) are already almost fulled booked.

Cambridgeshire County Council is reviewing its Library Service, with the goal of making additional cost savings of £0.5 million in 2016–17. Before taking any decisions, they are running a public consultation to find out people’s opinions on the different options. One of the options they are considering is a reduction to the mobile library service, which currently visits Fen Ditton every month.

To view the proposals and complete the questionnaire, please click here. The consultation ends on 15th February 2016.

Sat navs have been diverting cars and now lorries down Field Lane, a narrow byway at the end of Green End. There has been a spate of cars and vans getting stuck recently and now a Tesco lorry. It was reported that it took two large tow trucks 11 hours to get the lorry out. 

Sarah Smart our parish clerk was interviewed by BBC Radio Cambridgeshire this morning as part of their feature on the costs to the local tax payer of picking up litter and the volounteers that help to keep Fen Ditton tidy.

There was reporting from around the area including a reporter inspecting the littter along Horningsea Road.

Click here to download the audio file This Is BBC Radio Cambridgeshire.m4a

In spite of the cold weather, a steady stream of residents attended the City Deal's drop-in exhibition at the Pavilion yesterday evening to view the detailed maps of the proposed cycling projects in Fen Ditton.

Whether or not you attended the exhibition, the Parish Council would be interested to hear your views on the proposals, which it will be discussing at its meeting on 2nd February. Please click here to take part in our consultation; the closing date is still 1st February as originally stated.

The current weight limit for through traffic in Fen Ditton is 18 tonnes; this includes Horningsea Road, Ditton Lane and High Ditch Road. Government guidance indicates that lorries under this weight limit will never have more than two axles. So there should be NO multi-axle lorries passing through the village (there is an exemption for those needing to access properties within it).

Please read on for how to report overweight lorries and other problems involving the roads to the relevant authorities.

The Greater Cambridge City Deal team are proposing a number of Cross City Cycling projects, one of which would involve changes along Ditton Lane and Horningsea Road and to the junction with High Ditch Road and High Street. These changes are indicated in the leaflet that has recently been delivered within the village.

The map in the leaflet shows little detail but you can find out more by looking at the detailed drawings online or by coming along to the informal drop-in exhibition at the Recreation Ground Pavilion between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday 14th January, at which representatives of the City Deal team will be available to answer questions.

Please read on to find out ways in which you can have your say on the proposals.

The Parish Council received notification over the weekend that the Ancient Shepherds pub is being removed from the market as the freeholder and Punch Taverns have decided to retain it within their estate as a licensed outlet. This decision was largely due to the early success of the new tenants but also to the fact that it had been registered as an Asset of Community Value. It is welcome news as it removes the uncertainty as to the future of this pub in the village.

Have your say – Cross City Cycling: Five projects to boost and improve cycling across Cambridge including Ditton Lane and Horningsea Road. 

A new set of plans for the Cambridge North station is on the agenda for discussion at this month’s Parish Council meeting.

These revised plans, lodged on 17th December, are modified from the previous application, with the car parking area relocated to allow for a possible multi-storey car-park in the future.

                     Original layout                                           New layout

The Cambridge News has the full story, or you can find the full application here.

If you have any comments from the Fen Ditton residents’ perspective, please comment here; alternatively, let the Parish Clerk know or come along to the Parish Council meeting on 5th January.

Highways England have notified the Parish Council that they will be carrying out essential repair work on the A14 bridge over the River Cam from 15th to 18th December. To minimise disruption they will be working overnight between 9pm and 6am but will need to close the westbound carriageway between junctions 36 (Bottisham) and 33 (Milton) while they are doing the work. A clearly signposted diversion will be in place.

Please click here for more details.

Between 8:30 am on 5th December and 3 pm on 6th December, unknown offenders gained entry to a vehicle and items were stolen.

Many thanks to the band of volunteers who set up this year's Christmas tree on the Village Green yesterday.

The lights will be turned on at 7pm on Wednesday 9th December. Come and join in the fun - wrap up warm, bring a torch and enjoy carols, mulled wine and mince pies!

There will be a collection in aid of the Fen Ditton Church Community Hall restoration fund.

The owner of the Ancient Shepherds public house has informed South Cambs District Council of their intention to sell.

As the Ancient Shepherds is a nominated Asset of Community Value under the Localism Act (2011), the community is given six months to put together a bid to purchase it in order to keep it in community use. For this six-month moratorium period to be triggered, any community group wishing to express an interest in bidding must first submit an 'intention to bid' form to SCDC, to arrive before 5pm on 5th January 2016.

Please click here for further details with a link to the 'intention to bid' form.

Just a quick reminder that any responses to the City Deal's consultation on the Chisholm Trail need to be in by tomorrow, 30th November. If you have been trying to complete the online survey but have had difficulty accessing it from other links, the one here is working.

Some residents have been worried by hearing loud noises of metal being moved in the night recently. However, the police have confirmed that these are not due to anything sinister but to emergency repair work being carried out on the railway. This is going on through the night, probably for the next two nights and then there will be scheduled work in January. The people doing the rail work have apologised for the nuisance, not having expected the noise to carry so far.

Gonville & Caius College have informed us that hedge cutting works along Wadloes Footpath have been provisionally booked for 17th December. Signs will be put up a few weeks in advance to ensure that cars aren’t parked there on the day at the Fen Ditton end.

These works are necessary to ensure the pathway remains clear throughout the year, and they will be carried out when the hedges are dormant, outside of the bird nesting season.

Please read on for more details.

At their meeting on Tuesday, the county council’s Economy and Environment Committee approved a resolution to progress the proposal to build a foot and cycle bridge downstream of the railway bridge on Ditton Meadows. Please click here and here for reports from the Cambridge News.

The county council will be working further on the plans before submitting a formal planning application, which will then be open for comment in the normal way.

Meanwhile, the public consultation on the Chisholm Trail, which includes questions about the proposed bridge, is still open until 30th November. Please click here for further details.

Highways England is planning overnight work on the A14 and M11 during the coming weeks, to help make the roads safer and improve the road surface. Subject to weather conditions, the work will start on Monday 16th November. Some parts of it are expected to take several months.

The work will take place overnight. To keep road users at a safe distance from the works, they will be closing the roads during the night with signposted diversions in place, and there will be some daytime lane closures with 40mph speed limits. None of the work affects the section of the A14 past Fen Ditton, but you should allow extra time for your journey.

Please click here to see the details.

A meeting of the county council's Economy and Environment Committee will take place on 17th November; of note is agenda item 4 proposing 'approval to proceed detailed design and planning application' of the Abbey-Chesterton bridge.

Members of the public are welcome to attend and may speak at the meeting if they register three days beforehand.

Here are more details.

There is a report attached to the linked page which makes interesting reading.

A huge thank you to all 40 volunteers who braved the unpromising weather on Saturday morning to help with the autumn litter-pick and village tidy-up. In the event, the rain held off till just afterwards, and an impressive heap of binbags were filled – on a rough estimate, between 40 and 50 of them.

A new B & B has opened at 1 Horningsea Road, next to the village green. While on the outside nothing appears to have changed, the internals have been fully refurbished to a high standard and are likely to benefit local businesses who need short-term accommodation for their staff and visitors. 

There is a link to their website in the Local Directory (under the Local Information tab above), also here.

A public consultation on proposals for the Chisholm Trail, a foot and cycleway linking the north and south of the city, is now under way.

This mainly off-road route would link residential areas and big employment sites by a path which closely follows the railway line. The Trail would provide an off-road link from Ditton Meadows to other green spaces including Coldham’s Common via a new underpass below Newmarket Road. Proposals include a path along the edge of Ditton Meadows, close to the railway line and widening the jetty under the railway bridge. The route includes the proposed Abbey–Chesterton bridge; however, the bridge and the Trail are separate projects, subject to decisions by different authorities.

Please click here to find out more about this City Deal project, with an estimated cost of at least £8.4m, and fill in the survey. Further details of the proposals are given in the revised version of the Background Paper, here. The consultation closes on 30th November.

A theft from a vehicle was reported, Station Road, Stow Cum Quy. This occurred on Saturday 17th October 2015 between 1.30pm and 2.45pm. The passenger front window has been smashed and vehicle entered. A purse and diary were stolen from inside.

A bunch of keys was found close to Fen Ditton on 16th October. If you think they might be yours, please contact Parkside Police Station, Cambridge.

Residents across Cambridgeshire are being asked for their input in the setting of the County Council’s budget for 2016/17.

Get involved and fill out the survey here: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/budgetconsultation

Some time between Sunday 4th October and Thursday 8th there was an attempted garage break-in on High Street, Fen Ditton. The roller shutter doors were found to be broken and twisted. Entry was not gained to the garage.

The Parish Council has revised its proposals for double yellow lines on one corner of the junction of Horningsea Road and High Ditch Road plus two passing spaces to address road safety and traffic congestion after considering residents' responses to the consultation on them, held in August. A map showing the revised proposals can be seen here.

At its meeting yesterday evening, it resolved to apply to the County Council for funding to progress the proposals. If this application is successful, the County Council will carry out further consultation before any work goes ahead.

The timetable for bus route 196 will be changing from 26th October. There will be extra buses from Fen Ditton into and out of Cambridge, and slight changes to the times of the current services. Please click here to see the new timetable.

The police have issued reports of two crimes committed locally, one of them in Church Street, Fen Ditton.

The new Fen Ditton village and speed limit sign on High Ditch Road was demolished in an accident in the early hours of 5th October. Only one vehicle was involved and no injuries were reported. The damage has been reported to the County Council via their website.

The Cambridge East Community Forum that was scheduled for this coming Monday (21st September) has been cancelled.

The next forum meeting is likely to be in the new year and will be added to the calendar once its date is announced.

Archaeological excavations on the field fronting Newmarket Road, located to the east of the North Works and to the west of the now vacant Peugeot dealership at Teversham Corner, are due to start soon.  The site is being excavated as part of the preparatory works for the Wing project, to identify and record potential buried archaeological remains. This is a necessary requirement of the Local Authorities before any development will be allowed to proceed on the site, and of course subject in due course to planning permission being granted.  

Works are due to commence this week in the south-west corner of the field, which will be the site of the temporary used cars dealership that was approved by South Cambs District Council last week.  Works will then roll on across the rest of the field and may last from two to three months.

Agents for Gonville and Caius College have put together a draft permissive path agreement between the College and the County Council, on the terms discussed previously with Parish Council representatives (i.e. the route through the boathouse field will effectively remain as a footpath open to the public, with the College reserving the right to close it when necessary). The agreement should be finalised and completed over the coming days.

The agents will endeavour to inform us of any proposed closures of the permissive route in advance and to erect signs notifying the public. Closures will be for planned events (the Bumps and the Autumn Regatta) and at other times deemed necessary for the management of the meadows, or to prevent damage.

The agents have sought quotes from a contractor to make the necessary alterations to the gates at either end (to allow the main gates to remain locked, while permitting pedestrian access). They hope that the work can take place over the next two to three weeks.

In the meantime, they will need to close the cattle out of the boathouse field from 4th September, ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival and the Autumn Regatta which take place on the 12th and the 13th. Access can remain, but they will need to make sure that people close the gate behind them to exclude cattle. Notices will be erected to that effect, and the Parish Council asks that they not be removed by members of the public. 

Following our warning notice about a prowler on High Ditch Road on 19th August, where a man was recorded on CCTV trying to access various cars parked on private property, yesterday he was charged with this and other car-related crimes in Cambridge.

A local policeman attending another reported crime on High Ditch Road recognised the prowler from the CCTV footage during their investigations. Stills from the CCTV footage had been sent into the police with a report of the suspicious activity.

On Saturday 22nd August between 7.30pm and 11.00pm, a Ford Transit van was broken into on Priory Road, Horningsea. It appears it has been searched but nothing was taken.

Between Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd , also in Horningsea, on Clayhithe Road, a house was entered and cash was stolen from a purse upstairs.

Finally, another church has been the victim! This time, St Mary’s and St Andrew’s church in Whittlesford, where four items of altar silverware were stolen some time between 16th and 22nd August.

An eagle eyed cyclist noticed some odd behaviour of a pedestrian coming out of a driveway on High Ditch Road. Having seen the warning on the parish council's website about a prowler in the area the previous day, the cyclist decided to observe the pedestrian with the help of two other passers-by. 

They also noticed an abandoned bicycle in an odd location and even stranger behaviour from the pedestrian. He had climbed over a fence of the pony field and appeared again like a meerkat from Shepherds Close. Putting two and two together and after a brief discussion with the pedestrian, 999 was called, at which point the suspect ran off, only to be picked up by the arriving police.

Some swift roadside investigation indicated that the bike was stolen and that the suspect may be linked to other recurring criminal activity on the High Street. By coincidence, one of the attending police officers thought he recognised the description of the prowler from the previous night. A quick look at some photographs positively identified the prowler as an offender well known to the police and a city resident, who may be having a visit from them in the near future.

Thank you, observant passers-by in helping us keep our village safe.

A prowler was spotted going along High Ditch Road at around 02:00 on 19th August 2015 shining a torch in cars, trying car doors and generally snooping around garages.

He was a tall white middle-aged male with a distinctive nose. He was wearing a flat cap, hooded parka style coat, trousers that were a little too short, working gloves and dark trainers.

The Parish Council will be discussing a proposal to install double yellow lines on some parts of High Ditch Road at its meeting on 1st September, and is holding a consultation to find out residents’ and local stakeholders’ views on the proposed course of action. Please click here to take part in the consultation, which closes on 31st August.

Dear all,
Please see details below of a distraction burglary that took place yesterday in Swavesey. The victim is an elderly female.  Please be aware of this type of offence and ensure that you secure your property even when you are at home. We recommend that you limit access to you property by having any access to the rear of your property secured by a locked gate in addition to having front and rear doors locked. Please also keep an eye out for any vulnerable neighbours you may have.
 
CF0334840815  (Whitton Close, Swavesey )
Distraction Burglary in a dwelling with intent to commit an offence
17/08/2015 11:00 - 17/08/2015 13:00
Smartly dressed male suspect approached resident while she was out on her driveway and offered to do some work to the driveway, resident refused the offer but then noticed the two younger suspects in her front garden to her right who then made off when she challenged them. Upon returning to property resident noticed items missing from her bedroom which is at the rear of the property.

If you have any information which may assist with the investigation into this crime please call 101, reply to this message or call crime stoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.

A burglary was reported, Meadowlands Road, Teversham. This occurred on Saturday 15th August during the night. Offender(s) have entered the property through the rear garden. It appears they have climbed through an insecure rear ground floor window into the kitchen.  A handbag was stolen from the kitchen.

The Council have recently received permission from South Cambridgeshire District Council to carry out the work as applied for and previously detailed to the trees along the cemetery boundary and Stanbury Close gardens.

The most significant work will be the felling of three elms, and reducing the height of the ash by 35% and of the single sycamore by 30%. 

The work is planned to start on Tuesday, 18th August, 2015. The contractors are Hudson Timber of Ashwell. 

If you wish to discuss the above at any time please contact the Parish Clerk on 01223 862687 or clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk

Cambridgeshire County Council is seeking people’s views on the draft update to its Rights of Way Improvement Plan.

We have just received a message from Lucy Frazer, the new MP for South East Cambridgeshire, following the recent meeting in the Pavilion at which we welcomed her to Fen Ditton. Please read on for the text of her message.

There is now a revised document with the background and project plan for the Chishold Trail, including proposals to widen the underpass under the rail bridge. There are also significant changes to the route around the Leper Chapel compared with the previous version.

The planning application for 18 houses off High Ditch Road is on the agenda for discussion by the Parish Council at their meeting in the Pavilion on 4th August, and a response will be agreed after that discussion. Please click here to see the discussion document and proposed response. Members of the public are welcome and may address the meeting to put forward their views during the short open session starting 7.30pm.

An application for outline planning permission has been filed with South Cambs for 18 dwellings on land at Fleam End Farm with an access road off High Ditch Road. According to the application the land is outside the village framework and in the Green Belt. The scheme includes up to 60% affordable houses to meet the needs of the local community.

If you want more details the planning reference number is S/1289/15/OL. Here is a link to the full application.

The talk on the Fen Ditton Parish Registers, which was to have taken place at the church on 16th July, has been postponed and will now take place on Wednesday 22nd July. Please spread the word to other people who might want to come.

As part of the preparatory work for the new station, Network Rail needs to carry out ground investigations near to the railway bridge over the River Cam. They will be carrying out the work in the week beginning 20th July and will be accessing the site using the existing vehicle route over Ditton Meadows. Please click here for further details.

LUCY FRAZER

A short meeting with the recently elected MP for SE Cambridgeshire

Fen Ditton Recreation Ground Pavilion

7pm to 8pm, Tuesday 28th July

There will be limited time for questions. To be more sure yours will be addressed, please contact the Parish Clerk clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk or (01223 862687) before 27th July.

Do you own a Mercedes Sprinter van or do you know someone who does?  If so, please read this.

For those following the proposals for a bridge over the River Cam on Ditton Meadows, here is a link to the latest progress report from the FDPC working party, which will be presented to the July meeting of the parish council.

The recent May Bumps raised in excess of £1600 for the Recreation Ground Trust charity and we are keen to build on this success in the July Town Bumps. 

So yet again we are asking if you could have a look at your calendar and see if you would be able to volunteer on Thursday 23rd July and/or Friday 24th July between 4.30 and 9.30pm, to steward at the car parking. Help will also be needed on the Wednesday and Thursday to drop in notices to residents of Church Street and High Street and to put up directional signs and put out bollards.

The Trustees wanted to give you all lots of notice so that hopefully you will be able to support the charity in raising the funds that are needed to maintain the facilities on the recreation ground.

Please let us know if you can help in any way, and when you would prefer to be allocated a slot on the rota, by emailing fdrgt@fenditton-pc.org.uk.

Especially in the warm weather when people may have windows wide open, or be enjoying their gardens or drying washing outdoors, smoke from bonfires can be a nuisance. Please read on for some recommendations from the district council on ways in which you can minimise any inconvenience to your neighbours.

The police have issued a report of a new type of scam email purporting to come from Royal Mail, which actually contains a computer virus. Do not open attachments or click on links in unsolicited emails, regardless of who they are from. Read on for the full report.

FEN DITTON PARISH COUNCIL

Chairman: Councillor Vince Farrar

C O U N C I L L O R  V A C A N C Y

1. There is a vacancy on the above Council caused by the resignation of Councillor Susannah Ticciati

2. A by-election to fill the vacancy will be held if, within 14 days (computed in accordance with the Regulations) from the date below, ten electors for the said parish give notice in writing requesting that an election be held.

3. Such notice must be delivered to the Returning Officer at: South Cambridgeshire District Council, South Cambridgeshire Hall, Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne, Cambridge CB23 6EA

4. If no such notice is given, the Parish Council will fill the vacancy by co-option. If you are interested in filling this vacancy please contact the Parish Clerk directly.

Dated: 17th June, 2015 Signed ……………………………..

Sarah Smart – Parish Clerk

Address: Barton Ley Bannold Drove, Waterbeach 

Cambridge CB25 9QQ

The planning application to build a permanent ice rink next to the Newmarket Road park and ride site was unanimously approved this morning, and it may be open in the second half of 2016. Please click here to see the report in the Cambridge News.

The first steps to setting up a Speedwatch group here were taken last night, with Vince Farrar being trained as a Speedwatch operative. The next step is for volunteers and a parishioner co-ordinator to be identified and trained.

As you may have noticed, high winds have dislodged the foliage from the wall down to the Plough. This was reported to the County Council last week but has got worse overnight and looks as if it may end up blocking the road. 

The County Council has been notified about the increased risk with the pending Bumps event, and plan to send out a team to cut back the bushes soon. The police have also been notified. 

Access down Plough Hill to Green End may be closed off during the work. We will let you know as soon as we get any update.

Cambridgeshire County Council is seeking people’s views on the content of the updated sections of its flood-risk management strategy.

As part of their June 2015 Doorstep Crime campaign, the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers is reminding the residents across Cambridgeshire to be aware of doorstep crime during the long days of summer and autumn, and to report any suspicious activity.

Please read their article about rogue trading and distraction burglary, with tips on ways to avoid it, and pass on their advice to your neighbours.

The parish council will be discussing the proposed development of a new 450 sq m station building at Chesterton Sidings, Cowley Road, including cycle links and extension of the guided busway, at the meeting on 2nd June. 

All the details are on the South Cambs District Council's website; here is the link.

The police have issued reports of two crimes committed locally, one of them in High Street, Fen Ditton.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary are part of a major survey being undertaken by the National Rural Crime Network into rural crime, and are inviting people who work or live in rural areas to come forward and give their views on policing in their community, the impact crime and ASB has on them and their neighbours, and ultimately to help shape the future of crime prevention and rural policing.

Government inspectors examining plans to deliver thousands of new jobs and homes in Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire have said that further work is needed to make sure they are sound.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England has been conducting a review of electoral arrangements for Cambridgeshire County Council. They are asking for people’s views on their draft recommendations, which include new electoral divisions, division boundaries and division names across the county.

The recommendations include a proposal to split Fen Ditton parish into two electoral wards.

To all of you who were able to come along to the village tidy-up on Saturday morning, a very big thank you – and also to everyone who picks litter in between the organised spring and autumn tidy-ups. 

On Saturday 30 bags of litter were collected plus a microwave, a television and a handbag with contents. 

The Parish Council is also grateful to Horningsea Parish Council who lend the hoops, reflective jackets, gloves and the majority of the litter pickers, and to South Cambridgeshire District Council who provide the bags and take away the majority of the litter collected.

The police have issued reports of two crimes committed locally.

A burglary was reported, Horningsea Road, Fen Ditton. This occurred on Thursday 14th May during the hours of darkness. Offender(s) have smashed a rear patio window, to gain entry. An untidy search was carried out.

At the Church (Community) Hall, Church Street

This is not a council meeting but an open meeting for the whole parish. Councillors and representatives of other organisations present reports and take questions. Come along at 7.30pm on 12th May and find out what has been happening in Fen Ditton over the past year. 

If you missed the meeting and want to see what was reported please click here 

If you would like to take part in the spring village tidy up, please contact the Parish Clerk.

Meet at the village sign at 10am on Saturday 16th May.

The County Council is currently reviewing its Local Validation List, which specifies what information, over and above the national requirements, must accompany planning applications submitted to Cambridgeshire County Council. They are seeking the views of all participants in the planning process - applicants and their agents, statutory consultees, parish councils and individual members of the public - on their proposals.

For more information and to view the proposals, please click here. The consultation period ends on 27th May 2015.

Under the Audit Commission Act 1998 and the Accounts and Audit (England) Regulations 2011, any person interested has the right to inspect the Parish Council’s accounts and annual return. For the year ended 31st March 2015 these documents will be available between 8th May and 5th June 2015. Please click here for more information on how to do this.

The police have issued reports of a number of crimes committed locally.

The full planning application for an ice rink (the Cambridge Ice Arena) next to the Newmarket Park and Ride has been lodged with South Cambridgeshire District Council. As usual the parish council is invited to comment and it will be discussed at the meeting on 5th May. 

Here's a link to the full application if you want (a lot) more information.

Fen Ditton Church Community Hall is having a makeover and is temporarily not available for new one-off events. Longstanding regular bookings, such as theSunday Club, Gardening Club and Baby and Toddler group, are carrying on as usual.

A programme of refurbishment is planned for the Hall, and a small Working Party has been formed (with the blessing of the Parochial Church Council) to guide this process. The aim is to breathe new life into the Hall and to restore it to a welcoming, pleasant and safe space for a host of activities and events available to everyone in the village. In a productive first meeting on April 8th, various options for repairs and redecoration were considered and are being followed up.

More information will be circulated as the situation progresses. In the meanwhile, the working party would welcome suggestions and, in particular, offers of practical help. Please use the Hall email to send your ideas and watch this space for further developments!

You have most likely noticed the unsightly pile of rubble stored on the Green at the High Street cross roads. The parish council has complained to the County Council about it, asking that it be moved and any damage to the grass repaired. 

UPDATE - Contractor are due to clear away the spoil and add top soil on 21st April. 

Just to make you all aware we have had a number of caravan and boat  thefts in the Cambridgeshire area including South Cambs.   In addition to this generators, power tools and heating oil continue to be a target. 
 
These are the crimes specifically relating to this kind of theft since the 9^th April 2015 to date and for the whole of Cambridgeshire. 
 

Fulbourn Forum for Community Action have invited all the parliamentary candidates for SE Cambridgeshire to a public meeting at St Vigor's Church, Fulbourn at 7.30pm on Friday 17th April. Please click here to see the poster.

To make you aware of a crime that occurred in Teversham overnight of 27^th/28^th March. The catalytic converter was cut and removed from a car parked in a car parking area near to Sheppard way. This is a particularly audacious crime and very often this kind of thing is carried out in broad daylight, often in public car parks. There is a quite a high value scrap price for these items. If you see someone working on a vehicle with cutting equipment and you don’t know who it is it is well worth calling the police, we would suggest on 999, and if possible take notice of any vehicles being used by those carrying out the “work”
 
Also, we would like to bring to your attention that there have been an increased number of shed and outhouse burglaries in the Sawston neighbourhood, specifically Great Shelford, Stapleford and Hinxton. With the better weather and lighter nights now is a good time to review your home security.

Cam Valley Forum’s Annual General Meeting will take place in the Pavilion at Trumpington on Thursday 26 March at 7.15.  

The short formal meeting starts at 7.15 pm then, following refreshments, Jed Ramsay, River Manager for the Cam Conservancy, will give an illustrated talk entitled ‘Europe’s Busiest River?’ This will include a brief history of navigation on the Cam and then focus on current issues and the work of the conservancy.

The Trumpington Pavilion is on the west side of King George V Playing Field, Trumpington, at the junction of Anstey Way, Paget Road and Foster Road. There are cycle racks at the front of the building, and limited space for car parking along Foster Road.
 

First, a big thank you to everyone who filled in the questionnaire on this subject, either at the drop-in session on 27th September or since then. A total of 56 were returned, including some with very useful detailed comments. As you can imagine, the responses to some questions were very varied, although there was a clearer consensus on others.

The Parish Council is setting up a working group to look at all the responses and make recommendations. If you would like to be involved in this group, please contact Sarah Smart on 01223 862687 or email clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk.

There have been reports of an increasing number of ‘cross country’ mopeds and motorbikes (mini-bikes) causing damage on both Ditton Meadows and Stourbridge Common.

No motorbikes (no matter how small) should be on the Meadows (which are privately owned land) or the Common, or on footpaths or cycle routes. Some guidance is available here.

Please report any sightings to the non-emergency local police number (call 101), providing dates, times, numbers and descriptions – whatever information you can.

People who were unable to attend this open meeting may be interested to see a video of its proceedings, here.

Do you own a business where you use a van for your work and keep your tools in your van overnight?  If so, please read this.

A number of residents have reported near misses at the pedestrian crossing near the High Ditch Road / High Street / Horningsea Road / Ditton Lane junction, with traffic continuing through the crossing when the traffic lights are red. The Parish Council is keen to collect reports of these near misses, to find out whether or not they follow a pattern.

If you have experienced this yourself, please could you provide details on the consultation here. Thank you.

A new 40 mph speed limit over the old railway bridge on High Ditch Road went live today. The Parish Council applied to have the speed limit along this stretch of road reduced as it is a dangerous pinch point and approaching traffic is obscured by the bridge.

The Welcome to Fen Ditton sign was also moved.

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Over the last six years, the Environment Agency has been involved in improving the local rivers, lakes and river estuaries within England. The aim of these improvements is to make better habitats for people and wildlife in which to live, work and use recreationally - generally promoting the sustainable use of our water resources.

The Environment Agency is currently asking for people's opinions on their current draft plans, including an online consultation and a series of local drop-in workshops.

We have just received confirmation from the County Council that the meeting on 25th February at Barnwell Baptist Church in Howard Road, from 6 to 7.30pm, will be an open meeting and not just for invited participants as had originally been thought. This is part of the extended consultation on the bridge, and the County is intending that an architect will be present to listen.

If you are interested in the proposal to build a new foot and cycle bridge between the Abbey and Chesterton - either for or against - you may like to go to the meeting to put across your views.

The police have issued reports of a new scam being increasingly used by fraudsters, in which they make the people they are phoning believe they are speaking to a trusted organisation by fooling their phones into displaying any number they choose. The scam, known as ‘number spoofing’, works by fraudsters cloning the telephone number of the organisation they want to impersonate and then making it appear on the victim’s caller ID display when they telephone them on a landline. The fraudsters then gain the person’s trust by highlighting the number to them, claiming that this is proof of their identity, before trying to scam them in various ways.

Many people are aware that criminals use the internet and social media sites to find out information about them, such as where they live and what they like to do. As a number of people are booking winter-sun and skiing holidays at this time of year, it is a concern that they may be advertising the dates when they will be away, as well as address details, when looking for lift-sharing to major airports or ports.

The Parish Council debated its budget for 2015–16 at the meeting on 20th January, and then submitted its precept requirement of £21,518 to the district council (please click here to see the breakdown). Although this was a slight increase in the total over last year, SCDC have now informed us that it represents a slight decrease – about 1.3% –  in the amount that will be charged to each household in Fen Ditton for the parish component of the tax. (There are other components as well, which make up a far greater proportion of the total, and these may well go up.)

Our PCSO, Julie Hajredini, has issued reports of two crimes since her last eCops message:

23/01 11:10 & 12:10, Station Road, Stow cum Quy. Theft from motor vehicle.
Window in unattended Volvo XC90 smashed, entry gained and handbag stolen from passenger footwell whilst parked in country lane. CF0030610115

24/01 12:15 & 13:44, Newmarket Road Park & Ride. Theft from motor vehicle.
A vehicle was left securely parked and locked at the Park & Ride, when the owner returned she had found her spare wheel had been stolen. It was reported to Police and the offender(s) have been detained. CF0032280115

If you have any information regarding these crimes, please contact the police on 101 and quote the relevant CF number.

The police have issued two warnings today following recent incidents in which men have posed as police officers, one in Northfield Avenue on 20th January and the other in Fulbourn Old Drift, Teversham, on 21st January. Members of the public are advised to be cautious.

Cambridge City and South Cambs District councils are considering the regeneration of a large area on the opposite side of the River Cam from Fen Ditton. This extends from Milton Road to the railway, and from the A14 to just beyond the Guided Busway extension, including the St John’s Innovation Centre, the Cambridge Business Park, Chesterton sidings, the former Park and Ride, the golf range, the Nuffield Road industrial estate and Anglian Water’s site.

As a first stage they have produced an Issues and Options Report which sets out the main issues and presents some options to address them, and are holding a public consultation on it which is open until 5pm on Monday 2nd February.

The police are appealing for the public’s help in tracing a missing teenage girl Jasmine Wells aged 14 who has not been seen since yesterday evening.

Please see her photo and description here and contact police on 101 if you have seen or heard from Jasmine in the last 24 hours.

Thank you.

The police report that there have been three house burglaries in which vehicle keys have been the target since the weekend, in Fulbourn, Little Shelford and Barrington.

Do take precautions to make sure any vehicle keys are not within easy reach of doors or windows, especially on the ground floor. Keep them somewhere secure, or take them upstairs with you at night. The models targeted are often high-powered vehicles such as BMWs and Audis.

Just a quick reminder that the first stage of the consultation for the independent Local Government Boundary Commission's review of new electoral division boundaries across Cambridgeshire ends on 19th January. If you want to have your say and have not already done so, there is still time.

Please click here to see more details.

Next summer will be the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. In celebration of this, Cambridgeshire County Council has announced that it will be awarding small grants to local groups and organisations to support community activities linked to and inspired by the 70th anniversary, wartime Britain and the 1940’s era.

If you have any ideas on ways of marking this anniversary in Fen Ditton, or if you would be interested in helping to organise an event, please contact the Parish Clerk before 28th February.

A Level 3 cold weather warning has been issued, with the Met Office expecting that temperatures will fall below freezing. During this time, the elderly and those who are vulnerable are reminded of some simple life-saving tips about how to stay warm and well in colder weather. Some of them may seem obvious, but they could help you to stay healthy during the colder winter months.

Care Network Cambridgeshire is a local charity that runs the Help at Home and Community Navigator services. They are looking for volunteers who want to help older, isolated or vulnerable people living in Cambridgeshire to stay independent and maintain social contact.

There has been an increase in the reporting of telephone scams in the last month, particularly the type of calls in which the caller impersonates either a police officer, or a fraud officer or bank employee, and then either tries to get bank account details off the resident or suggests that they will send someone round to collect their bank cards and any valuable items to ‘keep them safe’.

Please be wary of telephone calls warning you of fraudulent activity on your bank account.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary have developed an interactive website to help people keep their homes secure. On it you can select specific areas of home security for detailed advice, from general maintenance, installations and tips to British Standards Certifications. There is also a self assessment survey, and links to useful organisations. Here is a link to the site.

Traffic cones have been put out on High Ditch Road and part of the High Street. Notices attached that indicate repair work for BT is due to start on 11th January on Ditton Lane. However, calls to the Traffic Management company to clarify the location were confusing, as they have no records of the work or how long it will take. More investigation is ongoing.

Work is scheduled to be completed on the 11th Jan, but more work this time involving digging up the corner of High Ditch and Ditton Lane, is planned in a few weeks.

Access to High Ditch currently blocked maybe cleared by 19.00. Two fire appliances, an ambulance and police in attendance.

Update - 19.30 High Ditch road now clear. Traffic signs are damaged and some debris remains on the road. County Council are sending a team to finish the clear-up later tonight. 

A proposal for the extension of the cycle path between the A14 and Fison Road (along Horningsea Road and Ditton Lane) is to be considered by the Parish Council at the meeting on 6th January. If passed, a request based on the proposal will be submitted to the County Council’s cycle team for inclusion on a list of potential schemes. What, if anything, gets delivered may differ from the proposal, which is just intended to start the ball rolling. The route does not lend itself easily to a cycle route and will no doubt be full of compromises, and a more detailed plan may need to be considered at a later date. As ever, if you want to have any input please come along to the meeting or send us an email. Please click here to view the full proposal.

eCops reported two breakins in the village, one on High Street between the 14th and 19th December and another in Stanbury Close on the 17th. We have just received a report of another breakin last night, again in Stanbury Close. 

Here's a link to the eCops update. 

The Enquiry Offices at Cambourne,  Sawston and Histon Police Stations will be closed from 24^th December until 5^th January.
 
There has been 7 Crimes to report since the last ecops message on 9^th December.

Proposals for a new Ice Rink next to the Park and Ride were presented to the Parish Council at the December meeting. Here is a link to an overview of the presentation. 

Cambridgeshire Constabulary have issued reports of 4 crimes since 1st December, and also that a burglar, Oliver Dalby, has recently been sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment for a total of 19 house burglaries across South Cambridgeshire.

As John Coppard has moved on to the Cambourne beat, our PCSO in Fen Ditton is now Julie Hajredini. She covers all the Fulbourn beat villages, which include Teversham, Great and Little Wilbraham, Six Mile Bottom, Fen Ditton, Stow-cum-Quy and Horningsea.

The Christmas tree lights were turned on this evening on the village green, in a very seasonal event. Unfortunately the village's oldest resident was not available to press the switch as planned, so John from the Ancient Shepherds stood in.

A splendid array of goodies were available - mince pies, mulled wine and Laurie's famous chocolate brownies. The mulled wine was specially formulated to free up the vocal cords ahead of the Christmas sing.

There was a charity collection for Macmillan Nurses and the Fen Ditton Church Restoration Fund which raised a total of £145.

In the winter months Cambridgeshire County Council works with the voluntary sector to help address the challenges that the cold weather poses for vulnerable groups. This year their Public Health team has developed some resources to support this work.

Two sheds were broken into last Thursday night in gardens on High Ditch Road. Some hand tools were taken from one, and it looks like the perpetrators made several visits, including one during the day to disable the security light, so they may have been planning to return.

Clearly we have some undesirables ‘working’ in the area so be extra vigilant and follow the advice on the eCops website.

Many thanks to the band of volunteers who braved the cold weather on Saturday to set up this year's
Christmas tree on the Village Green.

At the moment it is looking rather drab but that won't be for long - the lights will be turned on at
7pm on Wednesday 10th December.

Come and join in then - wrap up warm, bring a torch and enjoy carols, mulled wine and mince pies!

There will be a charity collection for Macmillan Nurses and the Fen Ditton Church Restoration Fund.

As many will have noticed, the trees on Ditton Lane are in poor condition and two have been removed as they had died. The Parish Council has been discussing what to do about replacing them. A report by our tree warden suggests that the replacement trees should be planted on the Village Green (at the crossroads, by the village sign). The proposal will be discussed at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd December.

Please click here to see the full report and proposal.

Following the installation of the larger green cabinet in the High Street, fibre broadband has recently become available within Fen Ditton. To find out whether your line can be upgraded to this faster service, please contact your internet service provider.

Download speeds are 'up to 72.2Mbps', though some residents on High Ditch Road are reporting actual speeds around 37Mbps.

Following the resignation of Mr. G Peel there is currently a vacancy on the Fen Ditton Parish Council. As no election has been called the vacancy will be filled by Co-option. If you would like to be considered or would like more information please contact the Parish Clerk.

A brief resume would be useful.

Following the decision by Cambridgeshire County Council to delay progress on a proposed foot and cycle bridge over the River Cam, the Parish Council is to form a working party to look at the issue in detail. Here’s a link to the story so far.

A proposal was put to the November meeting of the Parish Council with suggested terms of reference for the working party and, after some small amendments, was passed. Here's a link to the proposal before the amendments.

As the proposed bridge would have a major impact on Fen Ditton and the surrounding area, it is really important to get volunteers to form the working party and start looking into this as soon as possible. If you think you can help, please let Sarah our clerk know at clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk.

As you may have seen in the highlights from the Community Forum, an ice-skating rink is being proposed near the Park and Ride on Newmarket Road in addition to the Wing. Unfortunately we have very little further information at this time but wanted to give as much notice to villagers as possible and get feedback. We will publish more information as it becomes available but in the mean time if you have any questions please go to our consultation page here. 

In order to make savings, South Cambridgeshire District Council will be collecting compostable waste (green bins) less frequently over the winter months, when far less garden waste is put out by residents. The change is being made for December, January and February collections only, with fortnightly collections for the rest of the year. Crews will be working longer days during the summer when there is more garden waste to collect.

The Parish Council’s newly formed  working party, tasked with looking at the village’s green verges, has assessed suitable rural areas of the village to leave for natural controlled growth. The High Street extension grass verges, leading down to the river, have been chosen (this excludes the bank running down the side of the wall of Ditton Hall).

There have been delays to granting outline planning permission for Wing, and it will possibly be mid 2015 before permission is granted, owing to viability calculations and S106 negotiations. 

District Councillor Robert Turner and the planning officer pointed out that the work associated with a brownfield site and the relocation of existing businesses both add significantly to the costs of developing the site. This in turn affects the viability and may reduce the proportion of affordable homes that can be built to below the 40% that was included in the original outline application.

As a separate project, Marshall’s is considering the addition of an ice-skating rink close to the Park and Ride site, having been approached by a third party who have been looking for a site for some time.

Demonstrators on Soda Stream office roof at Francis Court, High Ditch Road.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is carrying out an
electoral review of Cambridgeshire County Council.

The review will draw new electoral division boundaries across Cambridgeshire.
The Commission has also announced that it is minded to recommend that 63 county
councillors should be elected to the council in future: six fewer than the current
arrangement.

Now it is asking for evidence on a range of issues to help it decide a new pattern of
electoral divisions for Cambridgeshire County Council.

The consultation closes on 19 January 2015.

An outline planning application for two 4-bed houses behind Orchard House will be considered at the November meeting of the Parish Council. Orchard House backs onto the proposed Wing site but will require the demolition of an existing garage to allow access. The full application can be seen here.

The Histon Safer Neighbourhood Team of Cambridgeshire Constabulary has sent out information about a company cold-calling locally, that residents should beware of.

The topic of an Exception Site, for Affordable Housing for people with a local connection, is back on the agenda again, for the meeting of the Parish Council on 4th November.

The Parish Council has been discussing this topic for some time and is now in a position to consider a proposal to meet the local housing need.

As usual, members of the public can come along at 7.30pm and have their say before the main meeting starts.

Here's a link to the full proposal.

In all 34 volunteers, including four children and a baby, helped with the autumn village tidy-up on Saturday 18th October. Once again, we were very lucky with the weather.

An impressive heap of rubbish was collected, including 45 full bin-bags, a rusty bicycle frame, several hubcaps and wing mirrors, and a car exhaust.

Following numerous complaints and the online consultation that has been running since March 2014, the Parish Council has put together a proposal for double yellow lines to be put down along some parts of High Ditch Road.

The majority of the complaints have been about inconsiderate drivers parking too close to the Horningsea-High Ditch Road junction, which can reduce the view of drivers and cause them to pull out - sometimes into oncoming traffic - before they can see if the road is clear.

The second complaint has been about the damage caused to verges on High Ditch Road when drivers unable past the parked cars mount the verge on the opposite side of the road to get by.

The third problem is for drivers pulling out of Francis Court, who often have to gamble that nothing is approaching as they are unable to see round the parked cars very close to the entrance.

The proposal will be discussed at the November meeting of the Parish Council. Please note that this is just a proposal at this stage, it may be amended at the meeting and your views are welcome either online or at the start of the meeting.

At this stage the Traffic Department has not been consulted so the proposals may have to be amended at a later date based on their policies.

Here's the link to the full proposal.

The proposal for a foot and cycle bridge over the Cam on Ditton Meadows was discussed by Cambridgeshire County Council’s Economy and Environment Committee yesterday.

As reported on the parish council web site, there has been strong local opposition to this bridge, including a petition signed by 324 people. There were also many criticisms of the way the consultations so far have been run and reported, and the data used to justify the need for a bridge. These concerns were raised at the meeting by people from Fen Ditton and Chesterton. Our County Councillor, John Williams, gave a detailed outline of all the issues and proposed an amendment that would mean the proposals will not to go forward to a full planning application yet, allowing more time for consultation.

Most members of the committee acknowledged the depth of feeling from local people and the need for further work, and approved the amendment.

More details will be published as soon as the summary of decisions taken at the meeting becomes available. In the meantime here's a link to the story in the Cambridge News. 

Please note that the Cambridge East Community Forum on Tuesday 28 October from 7.00pm – 8.30pm will now be held at Abbey Meadows Primary School, Galfrid Road, Cambridge, CB5 8ND.  Please do come along and find out the latest information for all the developments on the eastern fringe of Cambridge and let us know what you’d like to know more about.
 

An ornamental metal plate appeared on a doorstep in the High Street recently. If you are missing one, please contact the Parish Clerk who will be happy to help.

Cambridgeshire County Council is working with its colleagues and partners in health and the voluntary and community sector to improve how it provides information and advice for local people to help them plan for the future. They are running an online survey to find out what information people might look for, and where.

According to Cambridgeshire County Council's web site they claim there is strong support for the proposed foot/cycle bridge over the River Cam, between Abbey and Chesterton. There were 885 responses to an online survey conducted in July this year, with 79% of respondents saying they were likely (25%) or very likely (54%) to use the proposed bridge over the Cam.

This will be very disappointing to the 324 local residents who petitioned against the bridge, and the results seem to have overlooked the flaws identified in the survey and the traffic model identified by the Parish Council, for example the very narrow access under the rail bridge and the poor state of the cycling infrastructure in the area especially between the proposed bridge and the Science Park.

County Council officers are now proceeding to take this forward to the first stage of the planning process.

Here's the link to the survey results.

The Conservators of the River Cam will be installing some river bank protection on the banks at Long Reach, where extensive bank erosion has taken place over many years. The works will consist of a number of pre-vegetated coir rolls secured along the bank.

The work is being undertaken by the Conservators of the River Cam, with the approval of Natural England, the Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency.

This project will not affect the public access over the meadows. The works will take place in mid to late September and last for only a few days.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary have issued reports of 9 crimes since the last eCops update.

Impressive display at the Fen Ditton Village Show held at the Church Community Hall on Saturday. 

Cambridgeshire County Council is reviewing its Household Recycling Service, with a view to making savings in costs, and are encouraging residents to complete an online questionnaire. This focuses on people’s current use of the service and their thoughts on the options being considered.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary have issued reports of 8 crimes since the last eCops update.

Cambridgeshire County Council is reviewing its annual business plan, which includes looking at the authority's priorities and setting its budget for the year 2015-16, with the goal of making savings with minimal impact on front-line services. Before the County's councillors and stakeholders take any final decisions, they would like to gauge local opinion and have started a consultation process. To view the proposals and complete the questionnaire, please click here. The consultation ends on 30th September 2014.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary is conducting a short survey to gather opinion on a future 'Community Remedy', to be introduced as part of the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This will give victims a say in the out-of-court punishment of antisocial behaviour offenders through a list of 'options', and offer offenders an alternative to going to court and getting a criminal record, with the aim of ultimately reducing reoffending.

For further information about Community Remedy, please click here, and for a link to the questionnaire click here.

The closing date for responses is 8th August.

Cambridgeshire County Council is looking at creating a new foot and cycle bridge over the river Cam which would link the Abbey area of the City to Chesterton close to the existing railway bridge and the site for the new Science Park Station. The Transport Department has asked for views on two possible locations and designs for a bridge.

In response to this request for views the Fen Ditton Parish Council examined the proposal from all aspects and have provided feedback to the Transport Department in detail. Here is a summary of the findings.

The Parish Council (PC) believes the methodology employed in the consultation process was flawed, and was so biased that the PC recommends an independent review.

The PC believes that a combination of the rail bridge underpass pinch point, having to double back along the tow-path and the projected length of the proposed new bridge/ramps would combine to deter many of the projected trips.

The assumption that the proposed bridge would relieve the traffic over the Green Dragon Bridge is based on inaccurate data as indicated by our quick study.

The PC does not believe the surrounding infrastructure could cope with the projected traffic without significant upgrading.

The PC believes there are more appropriate designs and locations for a bridge that have not been considered in the proposal.

The small (cycling) time gain to traffic to/from the north (Fen Ditton) of the rail bridge, by the proposed new bridge that may be achieved in comparison to the existing route would not justify the damage done to the Meadows conservation area.

Most of Fen Ditton's councillors are cyclists and fully support well planned improvements to the cycling facilities around Cambridge.

This is a poorly thought-out plan that has not fully considered the impact on a village in a conservation area and the impact on its residents.

Some residents reported that they had not received a Survey Form and others reported having problems filling in the online survey form due to site maintenance the weekend before the cut-off date.  

To view the full report click here. 

Judging by the number of signatures on a petition, the proposed bridge options over the River Cam by Ditton Meadows did not go down well with the locals.

Cambridgeshire County Council’s Transport Delivery Team is proposing two locations and three designs for a new foot and cycle bridge to link Abbey to Chesterton, in addition to the existing Green Dragon and Riverside bridges. Here's a link to the details.

But, following what appears to have been a flawed consultation and very unconvincing exhibition, a number of Fen Ditton residents organised a petition against the proposals. The overwhelming majority of the people approached were against this proposal and 324 signatures were collected in less than a week.

The main concerns seem to be that on the north bank there is no clear route from the bridge to the new station, and the restricted width of the access to the bridge for cyclists passing under the railway bridge on the south bank. The proposed size, location and reported 5m width were also concerns, even to those who could see a need for a new bridge.

For others, the thought of an imposing new bridge in an area of outstanding natural beauty was unwelcome – and that’s putting it politely.

It was also reported that a number of residents had not received a copy of the survey and were not aware of the proposals until they were asked if they would like to sign the petition.

The petition was delivered to Cambridgeshire County Council’s offices on the 28th July.

The County Council is looking for information about previous flooding from surface water sources (e.g. damaged sewage pipes, water pipes and overflowing drains and excess water on the roads - not river flooding, which is well documented) so that they can prioritise work to reduce future risk. If you have experienced such flooding since 2011, please contact the Parish Clerk.

Just a quick reminder that the closing date for the county's consultation on the proposed footbridge over the River Cam just east of the railway bridge is Monday 28 July. If you want to have your say and have not already done so, there is still time to complete their survey online.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary have issued reports of 4 crimes since the last eCops update.

Everyone needs a holiday or some time away, but unfortunately almost half of all burglaries happen when a flat or house is empty. By following some simple tips, you can help to make your home secure while you are away.

Fen Ditton has been invited to join the Cambridgeshire Constabulary's Speedwatch scheme, along with some of our neighbouring villages, and needs two more volunteers. Here is a link for more information. 

If you are interested, please let Sarah know at clerk@fenditton-pc.org.uk

A £1 car parking charge will be introduced from 22 July at each of the five Cambridge Park and Ride sites.

The charge was agreed as part of Cambridgeshire County Council’s budget setting as each year the authority has to find around £1 million to run the sites and facilities.

Customers will also be able to later this week purchase parking tickets in advance online via www.cambridgeparkandride.com 

The £1 charge applies to any motorist who parks at each of the five sites - Babraham Road, Madingley Road, Milton, Newmarket Road and Trumpington.  

The £1 charge will allow motorists to park for between 1 and 18 hours. The first hour is free to allow people to drop off or pick up bus passengers or to collect purchases from the John Lewis distribution centre at Trumpington.

The new arrangements also allow for better enforcement of disabled bays to stop people using them who do not have blue badges. 

There will be no barriers and parking tickets do not have to  be displayed in the vehicle. The system uses cameras that have automatic number plate recognition on entrances and exits to check who has paid to park. Therefore, making it easy and simple for customers of the Park and Ride site.

Daily tickets can be purchased from ticket machines outside the main buildings on the sites. Discounted ticket deals can be purchased online or using mobile phones. 

Parking for longer than 18 hours will be allowed but the following charges will apply

• Between 18 and 24 hours     £10
• Between 24 and 48 hours     £20
• Between 48 and 72 hours     £30

The charge to park also applies to concessionary bus pass holders but they can still use their cards to travel on the buses.

The new system of advance tickets from www.cambridgeparkandride.com will allow users to book a weekly, four weekly or annual ticket in advance. There is also the option of pay per usage. This will debit the number of days the customer has used the site automatically at the end of the month and will assist people who may work irregular patterns and therefore not benefit from the weekly/four weekly discounts available. The system will automatically calculate if they have used the sites more than 20 times in a four week period and charge them the discounted £18 rate rather than the £1 per day rate.

Joseph Whelan, Head of Passenger Transport for Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “In an ideal world we would not charge but every year the Council has to find an extra £1 million to look after these sites. The ticket price that people pay at the moment covers their travel but not the cost of providing or looking after the Park and Ride facilities. With Councils being asked to save millions of pounds from services such as social care or looking after children, authorities are left with a hard choice about where they can spend money or find income. We have tried to make the new system as easy as possible to use and believe using Park and Ride still remains one of the best and cost effective ways of getting into Cambridge.”

A troop of Parish Councillors along with representatives from Cambridge ACRE, Hastoe Housing Association and their architect, had a walkabout in Fen Ditton yesterday. We should probably also mention a very young member of the group (1 year), with buggy, who kept us on pace and presented a few challenges over the rough ground.

The walkabout followed on from the survey of housing needs in the village earlier in the year, conducted by Cambridge ACRE. Councillors have been closely examining potential sites throughout the village that could be candidates for an Exception Site to meet the demand highlighted in the survey. For clarity, an Exception Site is a site that could not be used for normal open market housing, but where rules would allow development of a small amount of Affordable homes for people with a local connection. Councillors have also been on a fact finding tour of Exception Sites in other parishes throughout South Cambs, talking to councillors and residents.

While the survey clearly identified a need for affordable housing for local people, support for further development in the village was understandably mixed, making a decision difficult. The Parish Council will be reviewing the results of the walkabout and deciding if we should proceed further at a special meeting on the 5th August. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary have issed reports of 12 crimes since the last eCops update.

Due to unforeseen circumstances SCDC have cancelled the Cambridge East Community Forum that was scheduled for this coming Tuesday (8^th July).

They will look to reschedule the meeting towards the end of the summer.

Cambridgeshire County Council is proposing to create a new foot and cycle bridge over the River Cam which would link the Abbey ward to Chesterton on private land close to the existing railway bridge and the site for the new Science Park Station.

Cambridgeshire County Council have now granted planning permission to build a new railway station adjacent to the Science Park, with a direct bus link from the Busway to the station, and foot and cycleways to nearby roads. Preparation work will start in July 2014. 

Currently the closest crossing to Fen Ditton is the Green Dragon footbridge. A study is currently being carried out into the potential demand and feasibility of building a new bridge over the River Cam near Stourbridge Common/Chesterton. 

Here is the link to all the details, including a map: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/scienceparkstation

The wonderful weekend weather and the Fen Ditton Recreation ground provided the perfect setting for an afternoon of cricket. This was aided by the beer and barbecue. The Fen Ditton Cricket club organised a 6-a-side tournament which was won by Elmdon beating the team from Horsheath.  

As most villagers will know, Fen Ditton is a popular vantage point for viewing the Bumps in June (rowing on the River Cam, in case you were wondering), which causes a big influx of cars every year.

As usual, the recreation ground was opened up as a car park and villagers were kind enough to help by parking there to allow two-way traffic along the narrow streets.

A really big thank you to all the volunteers who helped with laying out the traffic cones, manning the car park and helping to get the traffic out of the village at the end of the event.

A total of £1,626 was raised at the car park, which will help in the running of the pavilion, recreation ground and other village facilities. 

A burning stack fire can be seen on the Fen Ditton skyline for a second night. The Cambridge News reported that lightning triggered a stack fire at the former barracks at Waterbeach early on Saturday morning. 

Here's the full story http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/News/Waterbeach-stack-fire-sparked-by-lightning-strike-to-burn-for-a-few-days-20140608153039.htm

If you live near any of the fields with horses in them around the village, you will recognise the people who look after them. If you notice anyone else taking a suspicious interest in the horses, please report it to the police by dialling 101 at once (or 999 if a crime is actually taking place).

Handyperson Services complete ‘odd jobs’ around the home – mainly for people aged 60 plus or who are disabled. Many of the jobs undertaken are too small for general contractors to want to carry out.

Cambridgeshire County Council, Cambridge City Council, East Cambridgeshire, Fenland, Huntingdonshire and South Cambridgeshire District Councils, and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), are working together to develop a countywide Handyperson Service and would be interested to hear your views about the sort of service you would like to see provided.

There were 33 volunteers, including four children, who helped tidy the village on Saturday 10th May and we were very lucky with the weather.

In all, 30 bags of rubbish and various discarded items were collected, including a rusty bicycle, a tyre, hubcap, bucket, garden shears and a small tent - a large ash branch was also found and was quickly recycled! Teams picked from the eastern end of High Ditch Road to the end of Green End, and from the southern end of Ditton Lane to the A14 access on Horningsea Road, including Musgrave Way, Filly Lane and the eastern footpath to the Recreation Ground. Picking was also done on the Recreation Ground and along Wadloes footpath.

The Cambridge News reported that

'Raiders ransacked a sports pavilion in Fen Ditton after criminals hurled a brick through a window.

Police are appealing for information about the burglary in Green End which happened over the weekend.

They searched cupboards in the kitchen but nothing stolen and police say the crime will be “filed as no evidence to confirm suspects at this stage”.'

Cambridge Constabulary have issued reports of 7 crimes since the last eCops update.

ecops have sent out two warnings about rogue traders.

Urgent - more volunteers needed - 10th May

A mountain bike has been found in Fen Ditton

Read more details

Annual Parish Meeting is to be held on Tuesday, 20th May in the Church Hall.

Village Tidy Up Re-scheduled for 10th May 2014.

Latest info from e-cops, issued 16 April 2014

1 x Burglary with intent to commit an offence - occurred between 10 – 2pm on 06/03 on High Ditch Road, entry was gained using a key obtained from the key safe attached to the wall. Once inside an untidy search has been conducted in multiple rooms. Approximately 6 silver engraved drinking tankards have been removed from the lounge of the location. No other items appear to have been taken. CF0085130314
2 x

Theft from premises at Scottsdale’s Garden Centre, Horningsea  Now identified males was seen on CCTV committing theft of yankee candles from the store on 05/03 and is awaiting court date for sentencing as he admitted crime in interview. The other theft was 45 bags of compost – which has been filed as no CCTV evidence and no witnesses due to time of offence.  CF0091880314 unknown offender/s has gained entry at rear of premises between 6.00pm on the 10/03 and 7.30am on 11/03.


1 x Theft of Motor Vehicle- occurred on 19/03 between 11.30 – 4.30pm unknown person has stolen a motor cycle from the rear car park at the Newmarket park and ride site - CCTV does not show an offender and the victim has now had his motorcycle returned after being found in a close near to where he lives. Crime has been closed and filed.

1 x Theft of pedal cycle – occurred at the Newmarket Park and Ride site between 27/03 -29/03 the cycle lock was cut and left lying on the ground, no witnesses or CCTV has provided Police with and offender and crime has been closed.


1 x Theft – Between 03/04/-04/04 Unknown offender/s have removed bolt and padlock from back gate to THE WHEATSHEAF, STOW RD, STOW CUM QUY. No sign of damage no witnesses or CCTV available crime has been now closed.

1 x Theft – at around 10pm on 08/04 3 dogs were stolen from the Gate house on station Road Stow Cum Quy, from a dog breeder of cocker spaniels, 3 dogs removed by cutting a hole in the wire fence. 2 dogs were found nearby and the 3^rd has been found handed into wood green animal shelter. This has now been reunited with its owner. Increased security measures have now been put in place by the owner at location to try and detect any further intruders as this type of crime is on-going across the south Cambridgeshire area.


3 x Burglary from shed / garages occurred on 08/04 on church street Fen Ditton, Unknown offenders were disturbed by resident threats were made and offenders made off in a silver coloured vehicle no registration number known and offenders not identified, CF0128740414


1 x Production of controlled drugs found to in a garage that was broken into in the above crimes resident was found to be cultivating cannabis – crime has been raised and the resident has been cautioned as first time offence as he admitted it for personal use. Now closed and filed.

3 x Theft from motor vehicle/s occurred on 11/04/ between 3.00pm -3.00am on the 11/04 
3 vehicle's broken into a Quy Mill Hotel, one of those had a smashed window were a handbag was taken. CF0132880414

eops is warning all South Cambs residents to be vigilant following two attempted  thefts of keys in the last 24 hours. The two attempted burglaries which occurred in Foxton and Harston are suspected to be attempts to take keys to high powered cars on drive ways.

The usual advice remains:
- Keep car keys out of sight
- Never leave key near a door or window

Work is ongoing to identify suspects, who were reported in Foxton to have made away in an older Style 2006 blue Vauxhal Vectra. Three white males in their mid 20's were seen on both occasion.

Please report cars similar to this, with male occupant matching this description if seen in suspicious circumstances to the police.

ecops have reported a spate of theft from cars in the area. 

1 x Theft from a motor vehicle, this occurred at the lay-by on Clayhithe Road, Horningsea.  Unknown offender has smashed front passenger window of aggrieves vehicle & stolen handbag from within which was hidden under the front passenger seat.

1 x Theft from motor vehicle, Blue lion close, Fen Ditton, occurred overnight between 26/02 at 8.30pm and 27/02 at 7.30am unknown offender has smashed front nearside window of white Vauxhall Corsa hatchback, index ak62myp, by unknown means whilst vehicle parked on front drive of terraced house. entry gained, handbag stolen from underneath front passenger seat and bank card stolen from glovebox.cf0074160214

1 x Theft from motor vehicle, Quy Mill Hotel, Church Road, Stow Cum Quy, occurred between 6.30 -7.30pm on 03/03 Unknown offender has stolen the aggrieves handbag from her car and has tried to use a bank card to withdraw £100 from her account.

1 x Theft from motor vehicle occurred overnight in a lay-by on the A14 junction with Horningsea/Fen Ditton. Unknown suspects have cut through side panel of a foreign lorry, whereby they have gained entry & stolen 15 packets of compact cleaners. CF0062690214

Don't panic, this was just to get your attention!

The parish council just wants to hear your views on the parking problems at the B1047 Horningsea Road – High Ditch Road/High Street crossroads.

Click here for the detail and a feedback form.

We have received this notice from the Histon Police:

We have received a report this morning from about what appears to be a bogus caller targeting older people.  He is going to properties that have solar panels fitted stating that he needs to check the meter and asking the home owner/tenant if they have a step ladder.  He does not offer any form of ID.  He is described as wearing glasses and around 5’ 5” to 6’ no real distinguishing features.  Apparently when questioned he ran off. This incident may also be linked to similar reports in Bassingbourn and Harston over the past few months.
 
Please be aware of this incident and report anything suspicious to the police.

The old railway bridge on High Ditch Road can be a dangerous pinch point if you meet a truck coming the other way, or if two cars and a pedestrian or cyclist approach at the same time. As you can see from the photo, two cars and a cyclist would be a tight fit at best, if a driver tried to overtake the cyclist on the blind approach. In spite of this, the speed limit over the bridge is currently a high flying 60 mph - not that many would be mad enough to try.

The parish council applied to the Local Highways Improvement scheme to have the speed limit on the High Ditch entrance into the village beyond the old railway bridge lowered. The assessment panel were convinced by the Council’s assessment of the risks and have agreed to extend the current 30 limit. 

ecops has reported the theft of Pedal Cycle –Between 10.30 on 12/02 and 8.00 on 13/02 on the High Street in Fen Ditton unknown offender has stolen a cycle from the rear of car port which was out of sight from the street as victim parks her car in front of it.

Sandbags for homes at risk of flooding

Do you, or do you know someone that needs support at home? 

Cambridgeshire Age UK have a team of wardens helping people in later life to continue to live in their own homes, but need a bit of extra support. Click here for more info.

The Cambridgeshire Care Network has approached us to see if there is sufficient demand within Fen Ditton to extend the scheme here. Click here for the details.

A prowler was spotted going in and out of property along High Ditch road in the early hours of this morning (02:15). He seemed mostly interested in garages. The prowler was male, wearing a camouflage jacket with a hood, which was up and hiding his face. He was also wearing dark trainers with white soles.

Steady stream of visitors at the Wing Drop-in

This is an answer Cambridge ACRE has been asked to find out by South Cams DC and a Housing Association. Householders in the parish should have received a Housing Needs Survey form by now. The aim of the survey is to identify if there is a shortage of affordable housing for local people. Any homes built as a result would specifically be for locals or people with a connection to the village.

As any homes built would built on an “exception site” they could be built on land not normally available for development. For full details click here.

The form must be returned by the 14^th February 2014. So if you have an interest in more affordable housing in the village, or you are against the idea it is important to return your form.  

We’ve added a new feature on the web site, a Neighbourhood Watch section tab on the main menu bar. The plan is to put any crime related news and notices here, rather than have them on the home page itself.

So if you see anything suspicious in the village, drop us an email as well as contacting the police and we will put it on the web site fairly quickly to warn your neighbours.

Our local police are appealing for information in relation to a burglary that occurred on the 16/01/2014 at around 9.40pm. in the fen Ditton area. A glass window was broken and unknown suspects have reached into the property and have stolen a few items including a destinctive bronze statue. This piece in particular will stand out if anyone sees it. Click here to view the statue.

If you do remember hearing or seeing anything at the time of the offence please call police on 101 and quote CF0019120114 to report.

The Parish Council has one paper copy of the Wing Outline Plans available for those who do not have internet access or who find it difficult to read online. It is not a full set but it contains the main documents.

If you want to borrow the plans or know of a neighbour who might be interested, please contact the parish clerk.

As some of you will know, last year the parish had the loan of a thermal imaging camera and many of us took advantage of this to identify where our expensive heat was escaping from - no doubt resulting in a few trips to the local DIY store. 

Fortunately for those of us who would like to see if our measures worked, or for anyone else wishing to do a heat loss survey, the camera is available again this winter. This usually involves a short training course. If you are interested, please contact the parish clerk for more details.

Coleridge man, Tarek Aldairy was fined £200 and ordered to pay £370 in costs at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court, after rubbish was dumped in Low Fen Drove Way, Fen Ditton, Derwent Close and Cherry Hinton.

Owing to the size of the recent outline planning application by Marshall's for 1300 homes between Newmarket Road and High Ditch Road, the Parish Council will be holding an Ad Hoc meeting on Tuesday 21st January, starting at 7.30pm. The budget for 2014 will also be considered at this meeting. Members of the public are welcome to attend, as usual.

Wing outline planning application goes live on the South Cambs web site. Consultation on the planning application will run from 3rd January 2014 to 14th February 2014.

See full story for the link to the South Cambs web site. 

Today's Cambridge news has reported that Marshalls has submitted the anticipated plans for 1,300 homes. 

Last night's high hinds blow over the Christmas tree.

The street sign went up on Fen Ditton's new street recently. 

As the re-development of the old Blue Lion pub site comes to an end, the street sign has gone up. Most of the new houses are now sold, so a big welcome to our new residents.

Volunteers erected the annual Christmas tree in Fen Ditton today at the Horningsea Road High-street crossroads. See full story for the photo.

The Fen Ditton village sign on High Ditch Road may be being moved. Its current position causes a hazard to residents in the nearby houses by blocking their view of the road when driving out of their drive.

George Osborne, The Chancellor, in his Autumn Statement 2013 mentioned the Greater Cambridge Area –

The District Council's fourth annual Community Awards are now open for nominations. 

http://fenditton-pc.org.uk/consultations.php?template=2&id=183

RDF Television in Bristol  – makers of The Secret Millionaire and Dickinson’s Real Deal, are now producing the 5th series of the antique series “Secret Dealers.” In the next series they would love to visit the Cambridge area and have emailed the parish clerk, see the attached flyer for all the details. 

Today's FT reported that the Treasuary is to fund the A14 expanion and has dropped the idea of it being a Toll road.

8 homes hit in one night reported in the Cambridge News. 

Here's a list of the winning entries for the Wing architectural competition. 

CB1 and CB4 are burglary hotspots according to Cambridgeshire police. 

Judges spent most of yesterday afternoon judging the entries of the Wing architect design competition. The Fen Ditton PC chairman was part of the panel. 

The new Fen Ditton Parish Council website has been launched.

The new website includes lots of information about the Parish Council and the local area. Read on to find out more...

Fen Ditton won a bid under the Cambridgeshire County Council's Local Highway Improvement Initiative last month. 

The County Council's Constitution and Ethics Committee is recommending a draft new Constitution for Cambridgeshire County Council.

A floating wreck has been moored on the Meadows. 

South Cambridgeshire District Council looking for nominations. 

Break in on Church Street some time between 7-10/11/13

Good bye to Margaret, we'll all miss you. 

Burglary on Green End. Entry was forced by breaking a rear window. 

Fen Ditton Primary School donated £85 to Royal British Legion and visited the Fen Ditton war memorial on Remembrance Sunday. 

Local Councils have drafted plans for a new city district in North East Cambridge – which could create 8,000 homes and provide space for 20,000 jobs over the next 20-plus years – and they now want to know what residents and businesses think of the draft plans.

Their consultation on the draft plan closes on 5 October.

Please read on for more details.

Village Hall, Church Street - 16th August - 4.30 - 7.30 p.m. meeting with Anglian Water re proposed relocation to Honey Hill

Book your slot by email - info@cwwtpr.com or phone 08081961661