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LoPRA's Fourth YearChairman's Report to AGM on 16th October 2008 LoPRA came into being in August 2004 in response to acute concern felt within the village at the scale of commercial development and the very real threat of development on our Greenfield sites outside the building line. Additionally there were major issues with the A65 and the bypass revocation orders. Both aspects would have a direct influence on life in Long Preston, and decide the character of the place for years to come. Although the A65 order was eventually revoked after much lobbying and despite huge opposition the village made its voice heard with regards to it concerns over planning and affordable housing issues. The politicians and planners took notice of the people of Long Preston and took the trouble to come to Long Preston to report on issues and listen to what we had to say. We have been told, and we firmly believe, that some of the decisions made since then have taken into account and been influenced by views voiced by LoPRA. Over the last two years LoPRA have worked closely with the Parish Council, The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, CPRE, Craven District Council and North Yorkshire County Council on a wide array of issues with particular attention to the Local Development Frameworks, Housing issues, the A65 and Local Transportation Strategy. Many of these areas are ongoing and we continue to attend conferences, meetings and workshops and to respond to planning issues as and when they arise. Much of the work over the last six months has involved report reading and response, which although perhaps not worthy of a newsletter ensures that LoPRA’s input forms an integral part of both the YDNPA and CDC’s Local Development Framework and other local strategies. Despite there being less burning issues recently - which has meant less need for campaigning on a vocal scale - it must be remembered that things change and we feel it important that LoPRA stands at the ready against future threats. For example, LoPRA wants to see more affordable housing for local people with local jobs as well as for older people with roots in the community but we do not believe that a weak affordable homes policy should be the Trojan horse permitting commercial developers toeholds whereby they are allowed free rein on Greenfield sites in exchange for a few “affordable” homes. More recently we have been monitoring the issue of the proposed wind turbines at Brightenber Hill near Nappa, which will be clearly seen from Long Preston and all the surrounding hills. For those who wish to find out more it is worth looking at the Friends of Craven Landscape website http://www.focl.org.uk On a lighter note we still hope to show future films at the Village Hall through TRAMPS and many of our members and committee are also involved in the Village Heritage Project, which, although entirely separate to LoPRA, shows that those with an interest in the village really do get involved!! And for those interested in the Village we do need your support and would love to welcome new members, hear your views, concerns and ideas. For those interested in serving on the committee there are vacancies and we are always looking for assistance and new input. One thing is certain, the threats will return, some that we have not yet heard of. Developers will again eye up Long Preston in their search for the easy option and fast selling locations. Issues with the A65 will continue, whether with speeding through the village or increasing traffic. Unexpected planning issues outside the village may indirectly threaten the character of our village and its environs. If we wish to preserve our beautiful Dales village it is important we remain vigilant and are able to act when necessary.
The following
items were agreed and voted for by members at the
1. 'Whilst there
are no 'big issues' to deal with we go into 'semi-hibernation' and have
quarterly committee meetings. This should be dependent on local issues arising
and would need to be reviewed at the quarterly meetings.'
2. 'To cut down
on unnecessary costs we do not print further issues of the newsletter at present
but offer information via either the Parish Magazine, notice boards, website or
fliers as necessary.'
3.
'Rather than stating in the constitution that we will offer quarterly informal
public meetings we agree to offer a minimum of one public meeting per year (ie
as after the AGM) with more if required.'
4. 'That current
members are able to retain their membership without further cost at present
unless they wish to do so voluntarily (if the items above are agreed). ' Committee Nominations for committee members and the auditor were voted for as last year although there are currently vacancies on the committee, which can be applied for via the secretary, Heather Thomas-Smith (contact details and website as in the Village Directory). Click here to find out why LoPRA was formed?
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