tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46525928998883362902024-02-21T10:15:29.651+00:00Outrage Campaign against Gravel ExtractionOUTRAGE stands for "Oxford Upper Thames Residents Against Gravel Extraction". We are a community group who have campaigned for more than 30 years to prevent and limit gravel quarrying in the area that surrounds the confluence of the River Windrush and the River Thames Windrush and near the ancient bridge at NewbridgePeri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-89951190327915235522010-10-22T12:39:00.003+01:002010-10-22T13:06:03.989+01:00OCC Preferred Minerals Strategy<div style="text-align: justify;">The <a href="http://mycouncil.oxfordshire.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=115&MId=627">OCC Cabinet Meeting of 19 October 2010</a> considered as agenda item 7 a preferred spatial strategy for mineral working as part of the new Minerals and Waste Development Framework.<br /><br />For Sand and Gravel they decided to continue to concentrate extraction in the existing working areas - in effect the old Strategic Resource Areas that have plagued us for the last 60 years.<br /><br />Here is what Julie Hankey, Chair of OUTRAGE, said in her three-minute address to the OCC Cabinet:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">As Chairman of OUTRAGE I speak from the perspective of residents in the Lower Windrush Valley - one of the strategic resource areas (SRAs) that has supplied the county's gravel since the second world war, and the one that has been the most heavily dug. With approximately 1,200 acres of the valley under water, the cumulative impact of gravel extraction has reached a critical point. Despite this, it is now proposed that for the foreseeable future gravel extraction should continue to be concentrated in the existing SRAs.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">We have just emerged from a lengthy Appeal which has given yet more of what little is left of the Lower Windrush Valley to a gravel operator. The Inspector accepted that these particular fields and footpaths were 'a haven for residents and visitors alike and a refuge from the mineral industry in the rest of the valley'. But he decided it had to go. The landbank and your SRA policy tilted the playing field against us.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">It suits every part of the County outside the old strategic resource areas that this policy should continue. But it flies in the face of the government's policy of localism. It is a top-down approach, an imposition by you on us. The essence of localism is that people and communities should be able to shape their own neighbourhoods. The SRA policy makes that impossible for some of us, and it will restrict choice and flexibility within the industry.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In any case it won't work. It won't ensure a steady supply of sand and gravel. The flow of applications, already limited by your existing boundaries, will meet with fierce opposition. These areas have been dug for too long. Residents have had enough.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The arguments in favour of SRAs are skewed and self-serving. You speak of reedbeds and landscape-scale restoration. We see the loss of existing biodiversity and landscape-scale destruction. You speak of infrastructure and efficiency. We see increasing distances from the road network and longer and longer conveyors.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">We can ensure good practice in relation to these issues without SRAs. We don't need them. Each application site is supposed to be judged on its own merits. But if in practice, the SRA policy lowers the bar, then that itself is an injustice. We remember the reason you gave in favour of the SRA policy at the Examination in Public of the Oxfordshire Structure Plan: it 'avoids the need for lengthy detailed examination of site options across the whole county in preparing the MWDF'. In other words, we suffer for your convenience.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The only policy that is both just and in accordance with the policy of localism is the one favoured by the industry itself: the policy of free dispersal, without boundaries. Decisions will go one way or the other, but at least the fight will be fair.</span></blockquote><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-45519807947729131942010-10-13T16:32:00.011+01:002010-10-19T11:02:57.238+01:00A bad decision<div style="text-align: justify;">The Inspector heard the evidence, and asked for more. Since July we have written three further submissions about the effect the abolition of the South East Plan has had on the case we presented at the Public Inquiry. The first gave our view of the matter, and then there were two responses to what the appellants had said.<br /><br />On Friday 8 October 2010 we heard that the Inspector had decided against us. You can find his decision <a href="http://www.pcs.planningportal.gov.uk/pcsportal/casesearch.asp">at the Planning Inspectorate</a> by searching with the reference number 2107573.<br /><br />The decision is flawed. The Inspector appears to have accepted a great deal of our case, but he allows the national policy for a seven year landbank and Oxfordshire's policy for Strategic Resource Areas to take an absolute priority above all other considerations.<br /><br />So the Inspector's report ignores or sets aside evidence that was clearly presented, contains contradictions and relies on speculative assumptions<br /></div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>that the flood and groundwater modeling can be relied on where the mathematics of error make this unlikely</li><li>that despite previous experience OCC will be able to enforce a traffic routeing agreement in a complex case where there is a great deal of HGV traffic operating under different permissions</li><li>that reed beds can be developed when their design and layout goes against the recommendations of the RSPB, so that a more likely outcome is that they will revert to wet woodland - a polite term for boggy scrub<br /></li><li>that a management regime that has seen dramatic increase in botanical biodiversity would not produce more if continued into the future</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">OCC withdrew its objections, and the statutory consultees failed to ensure that their recommendations were followed. But they don't have to live with the consequences, they are not the people for whom this fragment of the countryside matters.<br /><br />The Government talks about 'Localism' and says that people should have more control over the developments that affect them. The Inspector considered this point. He recognized that local opposition was strong. But OCC had withdrawn their objection. and so he sets local opposition aside.<br /><br />We are immensely grateful for the warmth, generosity and practical support you gave us, and it's hard to see what more any of us could have done.<br /><br />Whatever we have achieved, we couldn't have done it without you, and it had to be done. But the cruel fact is that at this point there does not seem to be anything more that OUTRAGE can do in this case.<br /><br /><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-63957036722634894362010-07-23T21:54:00.004+01:002010-07-23T22:24:07.451+01:00Oxfordshire does choose<div style="text-align: justify;">Councillor Ian Hudspeth, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Growth and Infrastructure, has written to the Minister for Decentralisation, the Rt Hon Greg Clark MP. The letter is dated 9 July 2010, and <a href="http://portal.oxfordshire.gov.uk/content/publicnet/council_services/environment_planning/planning/planning_policy/minerals_waste_policy/IanHudspeth_LetterToGregClark.pdf">it is available on the OCC website</a>. The <a href="http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/links/public/mineralsandwastepolicy">website</a> explains under the heading 'Latest news' that Oxfordshire will now gather information and evidence and develop a methodology to produce a locally derived assessment of the quantity of sand and gravel that should be supplied from quarries in Oxfordshire.<br /><br />In other words Oxfordshire takes the Government's 'localism' at face value, and <a href="http://outragecampaign.blogspot.com/2010/07/mineral-landbanks-and-localism.html">does choose to set its own figure</a>.<br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-14128661022853442822010-07-14T08:26:00.009+01:002010-07-16T11:08:13.169+01:00Mineral landbanks and Localism<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-style: italic;">It seems from various conversations that we have become so immersed in the gravel of the matter that we forget how obscure the whole question is for any normal human being. But OCC is consulting about ways of choosing quarry sites for the future, and, in the absence of any clear statement about their policy on amounts that need to be found, there is immense potential for anxiety and confusion. So here's an attempt to describe where we are:</span><br /><br />Oxfordshire has the misfortune to possess large deposits of sand and gravel. Because the supply of sand and gravel is important to the construction industry, there are national policies to ensure that supplies are available. So decisions about gravel extraction here in Oxfordshire have always reflected national and regional guidelines and policies.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mineral Planning Authorities are required to have a 7-year 'landbank' of sites where extraction has been permitted. The amount of gravel that these sites should produce depends on national guidelines which say how much each region should aim to produce – the regional apportionment. So the size of the landbank and the way it is divided between counties within the region is extremely important to anyone who may be affected by gravel extraction.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On 19 March 2010 GOSE (the Government Office for the South East) proposed to increase Oxfordshire's share of the burden from 1.82 mtpa (million tonnes per annum) to 2.1 mtpa. Every other county in the South East had their share reduced. A further round of consultation was started. On <a href="http://mycouncil.oxfordshire.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=2682">18 May 2010 OCC unanimously rejected this increase</a> and put forward their own figure: 1.58 mtpa or less. But the new government put an end to the whole review process, so that the consultation responses that had by then been received were completely ignored.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On 6 July 2010 Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, <a href="http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/1631904.pdf">abolished the South East Plan</a>. In advice that came with his announcement, his department explained in relation to minerals planning that planning authorities in the South East <span style="font-style: italic;">should work from the apportionment set out in the "Proposed Changes" to the revision of Policy M3, published on 19 March 2010</span>. But in the next sentence they say that these authorities <span style="font-style: italic;">can choose to use alternative figures for their planning purposes if they have new or different information and a robust evidence base</span>. It was policy M3 of the South East Plan that specified how much each county should aim to produce.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Eric Pickles presents these changes as part of a major shift towards “localism” - the transfer of power away from central and regional government to local planning authorities. The advice refers to new “freedoms”. So it is very strange if the effect is to impose from the centre a figure that comes from the old system and that OCC has already rejected.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But in fact his statement is very clear. Planning Authorities can choose to use alternative figures. So Oxfordshire should now declare that it does choose to set its own level. The consultation responses that were part of the aborted review process provide a mass of new evidence.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For many years, the landbank for Oxfordshire has been much higher than was actually needed. It has now been increased. OCC is just now consulting the community to help it decide where new quarries should in future be dug, But unless OCC first sets a sensible target, large areas will find themselves blighted, and planning decisions may be made that are based on invalid assumptions<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;">So we urge OCC to declare and record on their website that they <span style="font-weight: bold;">continue to reject the 2.1 mtpa landbank as excessive</span>, that they will <span style="font-weight: bold;">set a realistic landbank that is appropriate for Oxfordshire's needs and constraints</span>, and that they will <span style="font-weight: bold;">defend this decision with all the evidence that is available to them</span>.<br /><br /></div></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-15801704142416832292010-07-07T07:32:00.017+01:002010-07-11T10:11:18.496+01:00Abolition of Regional Spatial Strategies<div style="text-align: justify;">Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, has issued a <a href="http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/1631904.pdf">statement</a> to the effect that the Regional Spatial Strategies have been revoked.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">In our Proof of Evidence to the Public Inquiry, we referred extensively to the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South East - the South East Plan - as that was at the time the most important feature of the Development Plan that was then applicable to the Public Inquiry. But in doing this, we emphasised that the South East Plan was shaped by principles that are set out in Policy Planning Statements which for the most part remain in force.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Although planning authorities in the South East are told that they 'should work from the apportionment set out in the "Proposed Changes" to the revision of Policy M3, published on 19 March 2010', they are also told that they 'can choose to use alternative figures for their planning purposes if they have new or different information and a robust evidence base'.<br /><br />For Oxfordshire alone among all the counties of the South East, those "Proposed Changes" increased the county apportionment for Sand and Gravel from 1.82 mtpa to 2.1 mtpa. These figures were unanimously rejected by a Cabinet session of Oxfordshire County Council on 18 May 2010.<br /><br />As the Partial Review of Policy M3 consultation process was in full swing when it was abruptly cancelled, there exists a mass of consultation responses that arose out of the apportionment and its March 2010 Sustainability Appraisal, and that are new relative to the "Proposed Changes". One of these is the consultation response from OUTRAGE, in which, for example, we demonstrate that these "Proposed Changes" were based on an inadequate understanding of flood risk and other environmental constraints that relate to Oxfordshire.<br /><br />The last words spoken by Robert Hanson for OCC at the Public Inquiry confirmed, in answer to a direct question from the Inspector, that OCC's preferred sub-apportionment figure remains 1.58 mtpa <span style="font-weight: bold;">or less</span>.<br /><br />It appears that the Government intends to devolve planning powers to local planning authorities. "Localism" and "cooperation" are emphasised in the introduction to the official 'questions and answers' advice on 'immediate issues that arise from the ministerial statement'. In para 4 there is a reference to 'new freedoms'.<br /><br />So it would surely be wrong to interpret this ministerial statement as re-imposing from the top down a sub-apportionment that has been unanimously rejected by Oxfordshire County Council.<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-89897891040942291562010-07-03T09:15:00.005+01:002010-07-03T16:55:18.592+01:00The Public Inquiry has closedAt about 6:45pm on Friday 2 July 2010 the Public Inquiry finished in a flurry of detail and drafting - planning conditions that will be needed if the Inspector decides to allow the Appeal. This was an unpleasant experience - rather like designing the car park and fire drill arrangements for use at one's own cremation.<br /><br />But at last we have had our chance to set out our case, and now we await the result. It's hard at this time to say more about that, except to say that we feel confident that the facts will be weighed with scrupulous care.<br /><br />We can say that whatever the outcome, we were lucky to find our lawyer, Charles Hopkins of <a href="http://www.earthrights.org.uk">EarthRights Solicitors</a>. We've now been working with him intermittently and with sporadic intensity for almost a year, and his understanding, experience and patience have made the best of our local knowledge and strong feelings.<br /><br />Our initial contact came through the <a href="http://www.elflaw.org">Environmental Law Foundation</a>. Organisations and people like these go some way towards redressing what is, in this kind of case, a frightening imbalance between the weight of money and consultants and the resources of a small community.<br /><br />Our many thanks go to everyone who has supported us this far, and to those who came to the hearings - it was very encouraging.<br /><br />But we still need any help you can give, and there will be more fundraising events. The Public Inquiry went on for longer than was originally planned, and so our costs have increased.Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-65516334166539006092010-06-22T09:38:00.007+01:002010-06-22T10:27:04.541+01:00The Public Inquiry resumesOn <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Tuesday 29 June 2010</span> at 10am the Public Inquiry resumes for 4 days in <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Northmoor Village Hal</span>l. Now OUTRAGE and the Residents of Moreton can put their case and explain why Stonehenge Farm is the wrong place for a gravel pit.<br /><br />During April Hanson's people presented their case in all its excruciating detail, as time and money slipped by. What has happened since then? "Events, dear boy, events" as Macmillan is said to have said. We have a new government, the seasons roll on.<br /><br />For example, in April it seemed that the Partial Review of Policy M3 of the South East Plan would require Oxfordshire to increase its landbank of permitted sand and gravel reserves. The new government quickly stopped that.<br /><br />We have a strong case, and we'll put it as well as we can. Here at last is our chance to finish this business, so do come along and support us. Your moral support and your generous help has been invaluable throughout this campaign, and we need you now more than ever.Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-73730592324873688682010-04-24T16:16:00.018+01:002010-04-25T16:33:26.215+01:00Gravel Appeal Time Resource Shortage ShockThe Public Inquiry reconvened on Tuesday 13 April 2010. It ran for 8 days until Friday 23 April, Tuesday to Friday for two consecutive weeks.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">By Thursday 22 April it had become clear that existing reserves of the right kind of time had run out, and that the Inquiry would have to extract a new tranche, biting into previously untouched reserves.<br /><br />So now a further 4 days have been booked at Northmoor Village Hall, from <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">10am on Tuesday 29 June until Friday 2 July 2010</span>. Another unmissable date for your diaries.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And how has it all gone so far? It's hard to say much at this stage. We've heard from OCC and from all Hanson's witnesses. We've also heard a large number of residents from Northmoor, Moreton, Stanton Harcourt and Sutton, who all put a very strong case. All except one opposed Hanson's appeal.<br /><br />It's been wonderful to have such strong support, and to have so many of you come to the hearings. Thank you, it has meant a lot.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Next time, it's our turn - at last. We know we have a strong case, and Charles Hopkins and Terry Kirkpatrick have quarried away at Hanson's evidence, extracting the gritty material we need.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Of course, the whole thing was meant to be finished by now. Everyone has done and given so much, but we can't give up now. So once again we call on anyone who wants to save this last bit of the valley - we need funds and fundraising events to pay for our lawyer, we need all the help you can give.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And here are some pictures of what we would lose:<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwwVfTUEG7gPElcjml4_qd9avymXC3xAIxqy0iHymoXBFY6jMBJipOnDlS5hSPCMJhtSW06MXPfRuKa4i7WfAFVwefshkBrtJotMW3C4_SwKWty18SORWQcHx6ypuv9yuT898nLt5XTD_/s1600/from+the+footpath+in+summer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwwVfTUEG7gPElcjml4_qd9avymXC3xAIxqy0iHymoXBFY6jMBJipOnDlS5hSPCMJhtSW06MXPfRuKa4i7WfAFVwefshkBrtJotMW3C4_SwKWty18SORWQcHx6ypuv9yuT898nLt5XTD_/s400/from+the+footpath+in+summer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464095689831867650" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">From the footpath, in summer</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rstsBV4TH0cN0N3n7UaMqOC52T5bGKqtjbBxPzV0VGNZ2-Orcdd-ehdM-pKpSFjShivKBMfcXAYqboumoQxwUd0X5OM-ZzBJmL49PEdts1Hkz2gFPxq8AtEFQ94Qyxn0xbAqnSiGK8V1/s1600/deer+on+the+Stonehenge+Farm+site.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rstsBV4TH0cN0N3n7UaMqOC52T5bGKqtjbBxPzV0VGNZ2-Orcdd-ehdM-pKpSFjShivKBMfcXAYqboumoQxwUd0X5OM-ZzBJmL49PEdts1Hkz2gFPxq8AtEFQ94Qyxn0xbAqnSiGK8V1/s400/deer+on+the+Stonehenge+Farm+site.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464096724625612258" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Deer on the Stonehenge Farm fields</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO26FXgfWVlqt9b-heOCYthIIVCcGfD9hk6pbCKjqZEoB5VwPLS2KRj_beqxGI1LW1igXrJGD8EaFsG1JwGDyqz-M_lc0cMEC3XxrGqYlaJV4LqfphAQy1XnTgDiqKiEQbaCpf3mnlBwzs/s1600/snow+footpath+to+newbridge.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO26FXgfWVlqt9b-heOCYthIIVCcGfD9hk6pbCKjqZEoB5VwPLS2KRj_beqxGI1LW1igXrJGD8EaFsG1JwGDyqz-M_lc0cMEC3XxrGqYlaJV4LqfphAQy1XnTgDiqKiEQbaCpf3mnlBwzs/s400/snow+footpath+to+newbridge.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464097185424276434" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Snow: the footpath to Newbridge</span><br /><br />z<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPQhydb_t5tvUhydP1PLopNRRi1YEXr9CJcvCqqVnXxHCZDcsZDvxzIzYtMrJb5aQKboqHRyCTGgy4O6S5shhrCWbklPz9p92SLb7GXVwgmOApirXrFLDj2qYUobafRN9-7lb5uXDg8Gt/s1600/where+children+are+safe.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPQhydb_t5tvUhydP1PLopNRRi1YEXr9CJcvCqqVnXxHCZDcsZDvxzIzYtMrJb5aQKboqHRyCTGgy4O6S5shhrCWbklPz9p92SLb7GXVwgmOApirXrFLDj2qYUobafRN9-7lb5uXDg8Gt/s400/where+children+are+safe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464097745657234018" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">A path where children are safe</span><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-88592658672214849532010-04-08T21:45:00.006+01:002010-04-08T22:08:36.016+01:00Spring Concert in St Giles Church, Standlake<a style="" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVm11MBlKl9P1MuaxgQuSyXbg_GfSqvvUTInvMNGPVKOSkfziTe8WbRAX61w_N_IFQSkq7rSnvEmOj_dwcQNz-jBGwLSVHxfDitxi3YbsBDhO7VTCf9V0nXPJ4pCQxXxUUPluexkC2cUs/s1600/C8FC.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVm11MBlKl9P1MuaxgQuSyXbg_GfSqvvUTInvMNGPVKOSkfziTe8WbRAX61w_N_IFQSkq7rSnvEmOj_dwcQNz-jBGwLSVHxfDitxi3YbsBDhO7VTCf9V0nXPJ4pCQxXxUUPluexkC2cUs/s400/C8FC.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457870979114262754" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">There have been a number of fundraising events over recent months to enable OUTRAGE to have professional representation at the Inquiry. The next of these events is a concert by the Lower Windrush Choral Society next Friday 16th April at 7.30pm in St Giles Church, Standlake.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Music by Handel, Faure, Mozart, Rossini and many more will be performed by local professional & amateur musicians:<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Henry Herford</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Baritone</span><br />if you haven't heard Henry sing, you've missed a treat<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Terry McNamara</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Organist</span><br />hear the fantastic sound of St Giles organ<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sophie Dodds</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">music student</span><br />performs part of her final year recital<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The Lower Windrush Choral Society is performing the much loved Cantique de Jean Racine and Mozart's Ave Verum as well as a couple of pieces written especially for the choir - The Glory of the Garden and Pied Beauty. See if you can spot GRAVEL in one of these!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Tickets are £10 (with Under 16s free) to include a glass of wine and light refreshments.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The easiest way to obtain tickets is by logging on to <a href="http://outrageconcert.express.iristickets.co.uk/">http://outrageconcert.express.iristickets.co.uk</a><br />or by phoning Jane Dodds (300 544/07776 365 256).<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Please come along and enjoy an evening of good company and fantastic music!</span><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-15843057175567088762010-04-01T12:32:00.003+01:002010-04-01T12:36:44.710+01:00The Public Inquiry reopens 10 am 13 April 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2g78_85BuSuzia0Y30v4yj-ue6d_L7YJVNyw0iglzGXK4Jfgw7NcBpJSC17ln14cOEESbUsfIrtSgwAGU1jHUUOxeVZ1kVC6U8bWfq0ecgXy17gYwQFGPnoppfLlGl392I4E1cIZOTaX/s1600/outrageposter.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 281px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2g78_85BuSuzia0Y30v4yj-ue6d_L7YJVNyw0iglzGXK4Jfgw7NcBpJSC17ln14cOEESbUsfIrtSgwAGU1jHUUOxeVZ1kVC6U8bWfq0ecgXy17gYwQFGPnoppfLlGl392I4E1cIZOTaX/s400/outrageposter.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455130738460911602" border="0" /></a>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-72366679439242986272010-03-18T15:15:00.008+00:002010-03-18T15:54:01.228+00:00MUSIC NIGHT at Northmoor Village Hall<p style="text-align: center;" class="western">Here's a message from Jan Waterfield:<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="western"><span style="font-size:130%;">MUSIC NIGHT</span></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="western"><span style="font-size:130%;"> 7:30pm Friday 2 April 2010 at Northmoor Village Hall</span><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify; font-style: italic;" class="western">In celebration of Witney Musical Festival week, Northmoor Village Hall is pleased to announce an evening of musical entertainment by local artists. </p> <p style="text-align: justify; font-style: italic;" class="western">Heading the bill will be Cooper Black, a talented group described on their website as "an uncompromising and potent mix of /eclectic folkbluescountrypop/, from gentle and sensitive acoustic to highly charged interpretations of the obscure and familiar". Having seen them recently, I guarantee they will have you up and dancing or at the very least you'll be tapping your feet. </p> <div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;">For a sample of their music you can visit their website:<br /><a href="http://cooperblack.wordpress.com/">http://cooperblack.wordpress.com</a></div><p style="font-style: italic;" class="western"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify; font-style: italic;" class="western">We will have a supporting duo called Acousticana - their music is slightly more folk style, with drive, very listenable. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-style: italic;">There will of course be a bar and a raffle with a gorgeous Chocolate Easter Hamper prize. During the interval there will be a hot meal of chilli and rice served courtesy of the Red Lion Pub. </span></div> <p style="font-style: italic; text-align: justify;" class="western">A donation will be made to Witney Music Festival and all other proceeds will be split between the village hall and <span style="font-weight: bold;">OUTRAGE</span>. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-style: italic;">TICKETS @£10 EACH can be purchased from the Red Lion (300301) or Jan Waterfield (301922). So start your Easter off in style with some good music and good company. </span></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"> </div><p style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;" class="western">For further ticket information email <a href="mailto:bookings@northmoorvillagehall.co.uk">bookings@northmoorvillagehall.co.uk</a></p><p style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;" class="western">For more information, visit the village hall website:</p><p style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;" class="western"><a href="http://www.northmoorvillagehall.co.uk/">www.northmoorvillagehall.co.uk</a> . </p> <div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"> </div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-19853340914162637232009-11-23T11:22:00.019+00:002009-11-27T18:14:22.330+00:00OUTRAGE Race Night a Sell-Out Success<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbpBzAoEKl-Dy1mNzDfBgIjzxB0SP0gj91XraGGmErCaZREkAuQL6CQWj88WOKvden9Ykhg88psPPDfMThzoLDoVmZAASzDXsUrrILmgT0uCrLpk5VNI4e-v-T8aYh0QtQZZlROGrVcat/s1600/game+playing.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbpBzAoEKl-Dy1mNzDfBgIjzxB0SP0gj91XraGGmErCaZREkAuQL6CQWj88WOKvden9Ykhg88psPPDfMThzoLDoVmZAASzDXsUrrILmgT0uCrLpk5VNI4e-v-T8aYh0QtQZZlROGrVcat/s400/game+playing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407261872187393762" border="0" /></a>One hundred punters from Northmoor, Standlake, Stanton Harcourt and Sutton enjoyed an evening of racing in Northmoor Village Hall on Sat 14th November, kindly sponsored by the NFU Mutual Witney Agency. Tickets were sold well in advance - for many this was a chance to be a racehorse owner for the night.<br /><br />The event was hosted by the MC Charlie Young, with assistance from Chris Naylor. Many bets were placed with Tony the Tote, the horses were loudly cheered on, and the lucky won money, bubbly and rosettes. Conditions were perfect for the horses that ran that night, which included those legendary thoroughbreds ‘Go Away Gravel’, ‘Hanson's Folly’, ‘Outrageous’, and ‘Bundless Boy’. The final race of the evening was won by ‘Hankey's Hero’, a firm favourite!<br /><br />The hall was transformed with hay bales, saddles, tack and boots. Tables, linen and lighting were provided by local businesses & the atmosphere was fantastic There was a fish & chip supper followed by an array of wonderful puddings contributed by our loyal supporters, and the bar did a roaring trade all night.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgxPoTh8mFfg5yp9GpTW0Qb8jTIRvVlItvzzliwSh_CRsY3tfvTqO283S8T3slLaOsXh5utNwVzaWEH_7dUUYIoWvzd5rElgqqoCyv1vh9_QeMVcyzvQtSCpmQk3xebCPFgPl7OEVctP8/s1600/3+tote+totties.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgxPoTh8mFfg5yp9GpTW0Qb8jTIRvVlItvzzliwSh_CRsY3tfvTqO283S8T3slLaOsXh5utNwVzaWEH_7dUUYIoWvzd5rElgqqoCyv1vh9_QeMVcyzvQtSCpmQk3xebCPFgPl7OEVctP8/s400/3+tote+totties.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407283380273266914" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Happy times at the Tote</span><br /></div><br />Besides all this, there was a Silent Auction with fantastic prizes such as a Day at the Races, a Formula 1 Visit & Accommodation in Spain, all generously donated by local individuals and businesses - the lots were listed as follows:<br /><ul><li>Lot 1: Racing at Royal Windsor - 4 Tickets to any Race Meeting at Royal Windsor Race Course during 2010. Tickets kindly donated by Arena Leisure Plc</li></ul><ul><li>Lot 2: Formula 1 at Silverstone - A Behind-the-Scenes look at the Force India Formula 1 facility at Silverstone for 4 people. A unique experience kindly donated by STL Communications Limited</li></ul><ul><li>Lot 3: Introduction to Pilates - An offer of a Full Postural Analysis, a Basic Principles Session and 5 Public Classes at the new Bridge Street Mill Studio in Witney. Offer kindly donated by mbodies of Witney</li></ul><ul><li>Lot 4: Dinner Party for 8 - A sumptuous 4 course dinner for 8 to be provided, prepared, cooked and served for you and your guests in your own home by Matthew & Emma Hare on a mutually convenient Saturday night. Fresh local ingredients will be used to prepare the menu agreed with you in advance. So sit back, relax and enjoy a fabulous evening: you just need to provide the guests, the drinks and the atmosphere. Cheers!</li></ul><ul><li>Lot 5: Hine Cognac- 6 bottles of Hine Cognac 1984, Landed in 1987, Bottled in 2000. Kindly donated by David Anderson</li></ul><ul><li>Lot 6: Large Black Leather Handbag - kindly donated by Aurora Fashions, Stanton Harcourt<br /></li></ul><ul><li>Lot 7: A Week in Denia, Costa Blanca, Spain - A week's free accommodation in a 3-bed penthouse apartment on the beach just south of Valencia any time from October until May, excluding school holidays. All we would ask is that the cleaning charge of £60 and a fully refundable deposit of £150.00 is paid. Kindly donated by Tessa & Sean Byrne</li></ul>An finally our very warm thanks go to everyone who gave money, time and essential equipment:<br /><ul><li>To the individual race sponsors: Lansborough Lettings Witney; HB Saddlery; The Ark; Torchbox Ltd; Cotswold Dairy Equipment; Oxford Media & Business School; Smart Solar; West Oxon Motor Auctions. </li></ul><ul><li>To Gary Allmond, Chris Clinkhard & Steve Good who generously provided the tables, lights, linens & bar; to Tony Meering for setting up and and managing the video & audio & to Stuart Cope for invaluable help with publicity</li></ul><ul><li>To all our helpers: Charlie Young (MC) & Chris Naylor for running the evening; to John Bond-Smith for running the Auction Race; to the Blakeboroughs for running the Tote (helped by Louise Duncan & Mikki Meering); and to Lia Meering for taking the photos</li></ul><ul><li>To everyone who made and brought puddings; to Liz and John Downes for running the bar; to Ella Cope & Julia Shelton for all their horsey paraphernalia; and to all the committee members who helped set up, helped on the night in the kitchen and on the floor, and helped clear up afterwards</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZTrEWlyPOdP9p-_eV2uoU_AYJdLb4D_lCrncSjMFXe9TZw6Iy80Gc06-6W39xSDlP5lehhYnI1mszdZjiVQSvm5C9OwfaGj2OHX-tcCPYjURH8ec3tmH2MkggokaQn1mZIOwAspHHM-L/s1600/friendly+bar.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZTrEWlyPOdP9p-_eV2uoU_AYJdLb4D_lCrncSjMFXe9TZw6Iy80Gc06-6W39xSDlP5lehhYnI1mszdZjiVQSvm5C9OwfaGj2OHX-tcCPYjURH8ec3tmH2MkggokaQn1mZIOwAspHHM-L/s400/friendly+bar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407287564235229138" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-68924240811070660082009-11-18T13:47:00.024+00:002009-11-19T16:05:41.628+00:00Adjourned until 13 April 2009<div style="text-align: justify;">The <a href="http://www.witneygazette.co.uk/news/wgheadlines/witney/4745250.Gravel_pit_plans__Decision_delayed/">Witney Gazette carried the story</a>, and also the <a href="http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/archive/2009/11/18/Headlines+%28wgnews%29/4745250.Gravel_pit_plans__Decision_delayed/">Oxford Mail</a>. Meridian ITV South included it in their news bulletin. The Public Inquiry turns out to be an an open and shut-up-shop-for-a-while kind of case. Here's our exclusive photo:<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6lXbkqseNs41o4vSncrgHE0afs1rrhlE6cJaCTlf7hUMZE6wlZ6rbR3CtzQxWa49y4NxXbEKSQ77eZa1QIjzdjs5syFEMNgqW8ZYli1otNpLLkccfbtYm2xEQY9Bjn0halqFmmiYk_3C/s1600/at+the+public+inqury.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6lXbkqseNs41o4vSncrgHE0afs1rrhlE6cJaCTlf7hUMZE6wlZ6rbR3CtzQxWa49y4NxXbEKSQ77eZa1QIjzdjs5syFEMNgqW8ZYli1otNpLLkccfbtYm2xEQY9Bjn0halqFmmiYk_3C/s320/at+the+public+inqury.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405839457127158786" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">The left have the right on their side, the Inspector sits all alone</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">How did it happen?</span><br /></div><br />OUTRAGE long ago told Hanson Aggregates, the Environment Agency and OCC that Hanson's flood modeling work and Flood Risk Assessment for the Stonehenge Farm application was inadequate. Nonsense, they all said, no extra work is required.<br /><br />The application was refused last November. Hanson was in effect given an extra month in which to prepare their appeal, as OCC took more than a month to issue their formal refusal. Eventually Hanson appealed, in July 2009, at the last possible moment. At that point they chose to announce that they would do the modeling work that OUTRAGE and the Residents of Moreton had asked for, and that they had said was not needed.<br /><br />Hanson asked if the Public Inquiry could be heard in February 2010 but the Planning Inspectorate said they had already had enough time. A date was set for the Public Inquiry, and Hanson said that they would nonetheless try to do the additional work. Results began to appear. By creating facts on the ground, Hanson made sure that there was something the Inspector could not ignore.<br /><br />By Monday when both OCC and Hanson had formally asked for an adjournment, it was pretty clear how Tuesday would go. OUTRAGE was all fired up and ready to roll, just in case the Inspector decided to postpone only the question of flood risk. But his view was that solutions to flood risk (if any) might rebound on other questions already examined.<br /><br />One oddity was that despite the Inspector's request in a Procedural Note that OCC and Hanson should agree and provide a set of Core Documents (the planning and policy documents that each side refers to), they had simply ignored his request.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">What does it mean?</span><br /></div><br />The adjournment of the Public Inquiry was extremely frustrating for all of us, but we need to put it in perspective.<br /><ul><li>It does not affect the strength of OUTRAGE's case against Hanson's appeal, or the Inspector's obligation to hear it when the time comes.</li><li>In allowing Hanson's and OCC's requests for an adjournment, the Inspector was not favouring Hanson. It may have felt like that, but in fact he was simply making sure that the Inquiry had the benefit of the best available evidence - as he is required to do by law. </li><li>If he had not adjourned, he would have laid himself open to judicial review. Whatever we (and he) may think of Hanson's antics in submitting their new evidence so late in the day, he was pretty much obliged to act as he did.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">Our legal representative, Mr Hopkins, knew that. He has appeared at enough public inquiries to know the score. In fact, the day before the inquiry, when both the main parties emailed the Inspector asking for an adjournment, Mr Hopkins warned us that the Inspector wouldn't have much choice in the matter.</div></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday's proceedings were shocking to us, but all too familiar to the legal and planning professionals present. Julie Hankey spoke to the Inspector after the meeting on Tuesday and he confirmed that there was no significance in the adjournment beyond the fact that he needed to have all the flooding evidence before him.<br /><br />Table-thumping wouldn't have altered the outcome, but these twists and turns have left us more determined than ever. Our case will be heard, and the delay gives us time to sharpen its points.<br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-51952871755989107002009-11-18T09:35:00.026+00:002009-11-19T14:37:57.678+00:00Water under the bridge - 12 November 2009<div style="text-align: justify;">A great deal has happened. There was the meeting of OCC Planning and Regulation Committee on 12 November 2009, and then the first day of the Public Inquiry, at which were were all told to go away and come back on 13 April 2010 - more about that in a separate post. In between these events we were extremely busy with last minute preparations for what we thought would be the first day of an 8-day Inquiry.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And there was Race Night on Saturday night, a wonderful evening, and very successful. Loud thanks and congratulations to Gai, Emma and Jane and to everyone who helped make it happen and made it such fun. There's a lot to say, and many to thank, but that too belongs in a separate post.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">As for the planning committee, the OUTRAGE 5-minute address to the Planning Committee concentrated entirely on HGV routeing. Terry Kirkpatrick spoke for the Residents of Moreton on flooding, and Robert Florey spoke as Chairman of Northmoor Parish Council and as a long-standing resident and farmer in Northmoor. Steve Good spoke for the businesses at Park Farm, and finally Councillor Charles Mathew addressed the Committee.<br /><br />The OUTRAGE address finished with the <a href="http://outragecampaign.blogspot.com/2009/11/occ-planning-and-regulation-committee.html">quote from MPG2</a>. This was pretty effective at first. The legal department's corner of the table went into scurry-about overdrive and emerged looking happy with a reference to the 'well being power' in the Local Government Act 2000 as trumping the ancient guidance in MPG2 (they said from the early 90s, but in fact MPG2 was published in 1998, later than the semi-obsolete Oxfordshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan 1996, if we are really going to get into policy ageism).<br /></div><br />Here's a quote from <a href="http://www.communities.gov.uklocalgovernment/localregional/localcommunity/wellbeingpower/">a study of the 'well being power':</a><br /><blockquote>1.2 A description of the Well Being power<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Part 1 of the Local Government Act 2000 provides local authorities with a discretionary power (the Well Being power) to undertake any action to promote or improve the social, economic and environmental well being of their area (section 2). The power is designed to: encourage innovative practice by removing some of the uncertainty over the extent of existing enabling powers, provide opportunities for local authorities, together with their partners, to pursue issues raised through a variety of mechanisms, help facilitate the removal of legislative provisions that can be demonstrated to circumscribe local authorities’ activities under the well being powers (section 5) and facilitate the local authority intervention across existing authority boundaries if this is likely to improve well being.</div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;">Our legal adviser commented later that it could not have been the intention of parliament that the 'well being power' would be used to override national guidance which is there specifically to protect local communities.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">But as usual the meeting was pretty forcibly steered by the officers - loud barks whenever it looked as if the sheep might be beginning to choose the wrong gate. Apparently the Minerals Department has worked hard with everyone to construct a strong robust case, in the Appeal though the outcome is a compromise on the routeing agreement, and strong hints that the flooding objection will evaporate in the strong light of flood model analysis.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The officers promised the Committee a very shiny new generation routeing agreeement, completely different from the boring old-fashioned routeing agreements that we know about. The members seemed very sceptical.<br /><br />One member pointed out that the 3 strikes and you're out rule with 3 random monitoring events a year means that offenders would have to be exceptionally unlucky to be caught three times, and even then it would take over a year for any action to be taken, and even then a small one-man band could quite easily use a new company to carry on as before. There was a general sense (with two former or actual lorry drivers on the committee) that drivers are quite good at evading rules of this kind.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This scepticism did not translate into votes - only 2 voted against the resolution to withdraw OCC's routeing objection, and that without sight of any new routeing agreement. The committee did attach an amendment about signage to the resolution. Until they publish the words, I don't think anyone knows what exactly they meant, but it seems the intention is that the routeing agreement should be reflected in signs at the exit from Dix Pit.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It all looks a mess. The chairman and the officers themselves recognised that this is not an easy site for routeing agreements. As Councillor Mathew pointed out, there are 43 commercial operations at various parts of the Stanton Harcourt sites, most of them not covered by routeing agreements, so this is clearly a case in which not even the shiniest routeing agreement can work.<br /><br />Terry Kirkpatrick was forceful and clear. Hanson, the Environment Agency and OCC had told him there was no need for 2D modelling of the rivers in this complex and difficult floodplain. But as soon as Hanson appealed they belatedly offered to do the modelling they had always said was not needed. The results as yet are unclear, but Terry says the modelling cannot be relied on as evidence that the quarry will not increase flooding. OCC's consultant agreed that it was possible that the effect of a quarry on the timing of flood peaks from two rivers could make flooding worse.<br /><br />The EA has told Robert Florey in fine detail what he can and can't do to conserve the biodiversity of one small pond, but say Hanson's quarries and bunds are no problem - it looks like one rule for them and another for us.<br /><br />Steve Good reminded the committee that small businesses may not survive the costs and disruption that flooding can bring.<br /><br />Charles Mathew explained to the committee that there was a public perception that the playing field was uneven, that the goal posts were wandering all over the pitch. The decision to delegate was distrusted - the committee should stand by their objections.<br /><br />None of this had any effect, except that OCC tacked on a request that the Inspector adjourn the inquiry until the results of the flood modelling is known.<br /><br />On 16 November OCC sent their formal request for adjournment. There was a flurry of phone calls and emails. Hanson almost immediately added their voice for adjournment. The Inspector by now was on the road. So the stage was set for a very short show.<br /><br /><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-56439888268394560472009-11-10T16:26:00.005+00:002009-11-10T17:25:50.530+00:00OCC Planning Committee 12 November 2009<div style="text-align: justify;">So the Planning and regulation Committee are to meet on <a href="http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/content/public/Resources/hlpdownloads/PN/pn121109.htm">12 November 2009</a> at 10:30 am. The idea is that the shiny new Routeing Agreement that the officers of the Minerals Department have negotiated with Hanson can be used to persuade the elected members of the Planning and Regulation Committee to withdraw one of their objections to Hanson's Appeal.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">As far as we know, the officers have never pointed out to the elected members the useful comments that are to be found in <a href="http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/mineralsplanningguidance">Minerals Planning Guidance 2</a> Annex C para C9:<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">(b) Lorry routes</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">C9. Offers are sometimes made by mineral operators to restrict their lorries to particular routes. Such schemes have sometimes proved successful but not all lorries calling at a site are likely to be in the control of the operator and in law a planning condition cannot control the right of passage over public highways. Some measure of control may result from a condition requiring the posting of a notice at the site exit requesting all drivers either to use or avoid particular routes. Highway authorities have powers under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to make traffic regulation orders to prevent the use of certain roads by unsuitable types of traffic for example heavy commercial vehicles. But such orders, which might restrict by weight or size, would apply to all traffic in prohibited class irrespective of its origin or destination since it would be impracticable to distinguish vehicles visiting a particular site. If there is serious doubt whether local roads can accommodate such increase in heavy traffic as the proposed development is likely to generate, then, unless improvements are made or there is convincing evidence that control of traffic is feasible, planning permission may have to be refused.</span></blockquote>This is an authoritative statement of the traffic and routeing situation as it has afflicted the residents of Standlake, Northmoor, Stanton Harcourt and especially Sutton, and it reinforces the conclusion that the elected members were right to refuse on these grounds last November.<br /><br />In particular, the problem with the proposed Routeing Agreement is that some of the operators at the Stanton Harcourt sites would be subject to the agreement, while others would not. This is precisely the context in which MPG2 Annex C para C9 considers routeing agreements impracticable.<br /><br />As for flood risk, who knows? The only certainty is that the elected members of the Planning and Regulation Committee will not have been given the time and and the information they need if they are to arrive at an informed and rational decision.<br /><br />The officers have always wanted this quarry, but OCC's own consultant has expressed some reservations about the flood model. Other experts say that it cannot be used to say that the quarry will not increase risk. On the basis of what is now known to remain unknown, the elected members should have no patience with any attempt to bounce them into withdrawing the flood risk objection.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-85376505752401339542009-11-05T12:55:00.007+00:002009-11-05T14:13:11.333+00:00Is this a correct map of the July 2007 floods?<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDuG1Xyz62WH__93N1rmbzo2D78x6BWKpdL8e92ZPRgTZyZ9BFJowWUAMuSfK_5IZ4i4_FUk3chr69GtylYOxpCDYg4qvEXtjKFK6FGuAGQp2_NHLwP6XkIUxQ2V1AlR1fqqHaTjmIyzK/s1600-h/HA5_3+B1+July+2007+Flood+Depth+Map.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDuG1Xyz62WH__93N1rmbzo2D78x6BWKpdL8e92ZPRgTZyZ9BFJowWUAMuSfK_5IZ4i4_FUk3chr69GtylYOxpCDYg4qvEXtjKFK6FGuAGQp2_NHLwP6XkIUxQ2V1AlR1fqqHaTjmIyzK/s320/HA5_3+B1+July+2007+Flood+Depth+Map.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400602834910120770" border="0" /></a>As part of the evidence put forward by Hanson for the Inquiry later this month, Hanson have produced a map of the area showing what they say is the extent of the flooding in July 2007.<br /><br />You can click on the map to get a larger image. Note that some areas have not been modelled - eg Rack End.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">As you can see from the attached map - it is incorrect. We need to provide the inquiry with written evidence from local residents who witnessed flooding in areas not shown in blue on the map, to ensure these are correctly documented. The darker the colour the deeper the flooding, as you can see many areas according to Hanson are recorded as white ie no surface flooding.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">If you know of any areas that were inundated, particularly your own property, please could you write to us to confirm this. Please indicate exactly where you are talking about so it can be correctly plotted on the map as evidence. Any photographs backing up your statement would be wonderful, but are by no means essential.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We need to include your letters in our documentation to the Inspector, so could we ask you to write to us as soon as possible.<br /></div><br />Please write to Terry Kirkpatrick:<br />terrykp ATSIGN kirkpatrickconsult.co.uk<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This is now even more urgent. OCC wants to lose this Appeal. They are holding a special meeting of the <a href="http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/content/public/Resources/hlpdownloads/PN/pn121109.htm">Planning and Regulation Committee on 12 November 2009 at 10:30am</a>, in the hope that they can withdraw their objections.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">They want the Committee to agree a new HGV Routeing Agreement that they think will let them withdraw the Lorry Routeing objection.<br /><br />They hope they will be able to show that the quarry will not increase flood risk. If so they will ask the Committee to withdraw the Flood Risk objection as well.<br /><br />If that happens, OCC will not oppose the Appeal. That would not mean it's all over. The whole thing will remain in the hands of the Inspector, and the Inquiry will go ahead. But we need your help and your evidence even more than before.<br /><br />The councillors on the Planning and Regulation Committee are listed on the <a href="http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/content/public/Resources/hlpdownloads/PN/pn121109.htm">Agenda</a>. You can <a href="http://www.writetothem.com/">write to yours using this link</a>. Please tell them that Stonehenge Farm is the wrong place for a quarry, and that they should uphold the correct decision they took in November 2008.<br /><br />The Witney Gazette web edition carried a <a href="http://www.witneygazette.co.uk/archive/2009/11/03/Witney+News+%28om_witneynews%29/4717582.Crunch_time_for_Northmoor_gravel_protest/">story about our campaign</a>.<br /></div>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-67391776991779059022009-10-14T18:09:00.003+01:002009-10-14T19:02:30.110+01:00What can you do to help?<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;">We need people to put their hands deep into their pockets and contribute to our fighting fund. All donations to <span style="font-style: italic;">The Treasurer, Outrage, Greenfields, Church Road, Northmoor, Witney, Oxon OX29 5SX</span>.</span></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;">We need people to support our fund-raising events. We are running a series of fund raising events, the first one being our <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Race Night - 14th November</span>. Or you could attend or host a <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Pyramid Party</span> (coffee morning, lunches, high tea, supper or dinner party), donate goods, service or skill for a promise auction, or a raffle prize for a future event.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;">We need people to drop into the <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Public Inquiry at Northmoor Village Hall</span>. Please put the date in your diary now - 17th - 20th November and 24th – 27th November.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;">The proposed gravel extraction is a huge threat to us all - the future of our rural community depends on Outrage winning at the Public Inquiry. We know having legal experts gives us the greatest chance of persuading the Inspector to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">reject the Appeal</span>, but we also know there is a financial cost involved. Last year we managed to raise the £10K needed to fight the planning application – and we won. We can do it again, if everyone helps. We have estimated that there are about 2500 of us living in the area affected. If every household contributes something, we will meet our target.<br /></span></p>Outrage Campaignhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02716618051631849996noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-29421704088109539122009-08-25T15:36:00.002+01:002009-09-11T18:17:15.405+01:00Stonehenge Farm: the Planning AppealOUTRAGE has been informed that the Public Inquiry into Hanson's Appeal against Oxfordshire County Council's refusal to grant planning permission to extract sand and gravel from Stonehenge Farm will start on 17 November 2009 at 10am in Northmoor Village Hall. It is currently expected to last for three or four days.<br /><br />OUTRAGE has registered itself as a Rule 6 third party to the Appeal, the other two parties being the Appellant (Hanson) and the Local Planning Authority (OCC). Col Terry Kirkpatrick has also registered as a Rule 6 third party on behalf of the residents of Moreton. This means that Terry and ourselves will have the right to present our case in detail, to call witnesses and to cross examine the witnesses of the Appellant. It also means that we will be open to cross examination. All the parties will present their cases before an independently appointed Inspector whose job is to assess the evidence on both sides in the light of minerals planning policy and to come to a fair decision.<br /><br />OUTRAGE has decided that we need - now more than ever - to employ a lawyer who specialises in environmental planning law to represent us. This will cost money and over the course of the autumn OUTRAGE will be organising a number of fundraising events. We shall need all the combined talents of our villages, all the ideas and volunteers that we can muster. If you would like to help please be in touch with us.<br /><br />We have come a long way since February 2004 when Hanson first told us of their intention to apply for permission to dig up Stonehenge Farm. We have written dozens of letters, attended many meetings with OCC and the Environment Agency, participated in minerals planning consultation exercises, monitored violations of HGV traffic routeing agreements, commissioned a botanical report of the site, lobbied our MP and County Councillors, made formal public addresses to OCC Planning Committee meetings, and much else.<br /><br />In all of this we have had generous support from all our six villages: Northmoor, Moreton, Bablockhythe, Standlake, Stanton Harcourt and Sutton. Your help in raising money for legal representation last year was invaluable. We have also had the strong support of our County Councillor, Charles Mathew, our District Councillors Brenda Smith and Hilary Fenton, and of all the three Parish Councils: Northmoor, Standlake and Stanton Harcourt.<br /><br />So far we have managed to keep Hanson at bay. The Public Inquiry on November 17th and the following days will be the final test and we aim to give it our all. Please help us to make the best of our case. If we don't stop Hanson at Stonehenge Farm, the next 8 to 10 years will be blighted by the noise, dust, traffic of a major extraction site on our doorstep. Northmoor's quiet village road will be tunnelled under by a conveyor carrying gravel up to Linch Hill all day long. It will be flanked on one side of the crossing by a hooded shute about seven foot high into which a raised conveyor will pour gravel onto another conveyor in the tunnel below. On the other side there will be cabinets containing electrical transformers and switchgear. What was once a quiet country walk along the footpath down to the river will now run alongside the conveyor and beside pits and machinery. Riders along the bridle path to the north of the road will have a difficult and possibly frightening time crossing the conveyor. As for the risk of flooding, Hanson has not been able to give us any credible assurance that this will not be increased.<br /><br />If you would like to give a donation or to help in any way, we would be very grateful.<br /><br />The Outrage Campaign now has a new email address: outragecampaign@gmail.com.Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-24285351561686951312009-08-25T13:45:00.004+01:002009-08-25T15:09:50.475+01:00Hanson has appealed against the refusalHanson has appealed against Oxfordshire County Council's refusal to grant planning permission to extract sand and gravel from Stonehenge Farm.<br /><br />The Appeal reference number at the <a href="http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/pcs">Planning Inspectorate</a> is "APP/U3100/A/09/2107573/NWF". Unfortunately the service for access to information about specific planning appeals is disgracefully inaccessible to users of Macintosh and Linux-based operating systems, and even it seems to users of Mozilla Firefox on any system whatever.Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-13788107534942182232008-11-27T09:58:00.010+00:002008-11-27T10:59:26.072+00:00Stonehenge Farm application: the refusal<div style="text-align: justify;">We have now received a text for the motion that was passed at the Planning and Regulation Committee on 24 November 2008 refusing permission for sand and gravel extraction at Stonehenge Farm, Northmoor. The text seems to omit one word, presumably "from" as indicated below by italic text in square brackets.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The motion refers to some policies: MWLP policy PE7 and WOLP policies NE8 and NE9. "MWLP" stands for "Minerals and Waste Local Plan" and "WOLP" stands for "West Oxfordshire Local Plan". These policies are quoted here for convenience.<br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The motion refusing permission</span>:<br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">That planning permission for the development proposed in Application 07/0111/P/CM be refused for the following reasons:</span><br /><ol style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><li>It has not been sufficiently demonstrated to the satisfaction of the County Planning Authority that the impact of the proposed development would not increase the risk to people, property and businesses arising <span style="font-style: italic;">[from]</span> additional flood risk.</li><li>That routeing agreements have proved ineffective in the past and in practice.</li><li>The development is contrary to MWLP Policy PE7 and WOLP NE8 and NE9.</li></ol><a href="http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/wps/portal/publicsite/councilservices?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=http://apps.oxfordshire.gov.uk/wps/wcm/connect/Internet%2FCouncil+services%2FEnvironment+and+planning%2FPlanning%2FPlanning+policy%2FMinerals+and+waste+policy%2FENV+-+P+-+Minerals+local+plan"><span style="font-weight: bold;">MWLP policy PE7</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> (see Annex 4 - MWLP policies)</span></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">In the floodplain proposals for mineral extraction and restoration should not result in the raising of existing ground levels. Mineral extraction or restoration by landfill should not adversely affect groundwater levels or water quality, impede flood flows, reduce the capacity of flood storage or adversely affect existing flood defence structures. The developer and/or landowner will be expected to undertake any hydrological surveys necessary to establish the implications of a proposal.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://localplan.westoxon.gov.uk/document.aspx?display=policy&map=4&policy=NE8"><span style="font-weight: bold;">POLICY NE8 - Flood Risk</span>:</a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">New development or intensification of existing development will not be permitted within areas at risk from flooding which is likely to:<br /></div><ol><li>impede the flow of water;</li><li>result in the net loss of flood plain storage; or</li><li>increase the flood risk elsewhere.</li></ol>Within areas at risk of flooding an appropriate Flood Risk Assessment must be undertaken when preparing development proposals.<br /><br /><a href="http://localplan.westoxon.gov.uk/document.aspx?display=policy&map=4&policy=NE9"><span style="font-weight: bold;">POLICY NE9 - Surface Water</span>:</a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">New development or intensification of existing development will not be permitted where the additional surface water run-off would result in adverse impacts such as an increased risk of flooding, river channel instability or damage to habitats, unless appropriate attenuation and pollution control measures are provided.</div>Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-32803767470723837172008-11-24T18:18:00.003+00:002008-11-27T10:58:32.081+00:00A result! Stonehenge Farm application rejected<div style="text-align: justify;">The Planning and Regulation Committee today voted 8-6 to reject the Stonehenge Farm application. This came after a long debate - should they or should they not wait for the WODC Final Flood Report and the joint Strategic Flood Risk Assessment. In the end the Committee voted unanimously not to defer again, and then adjourned to decide how to frame a motion to reject. When they returned, they quickly voted by 8-6 with one abstention to reject the application.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The Committee swiftly moved on to the next item on the Agenda, and we all emerged blinking into the twilight like the political prisoners set free in Beethoven's opera Fidelio, scarcely able to believe that it really had happened.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This was a wonderful result, and OUTRAGE is immensely grateful to the many, many people who have helped to bring it about.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Of course, in the end it's just like the opera - not done till the fat lady sings - Hanson may well appeal. But for now, it's the interval, and we can enjoy what we have all along been trying to save.</div>Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-41125987176785550172008-11-15T10:01:00.010+00:002008-11-16T12:57:35.323+00:00<div style="text-align: justify;"><a style="" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="#floodplain"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKBrJ6MYjhKC8Zrceg7H9UJNAc5S586Pdp7C7PvQB_2pLdcPMyrBGoyc1d6u6_yOLw_N_JKpMRsxs1PpTbsUUOaUqbDfsR_4SgU-PEYU86Oxa3Ybxc2bqcySq_U1IMT1mzkMMeds9PByj/s320/poster+24+nov+smallest.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269236249200849650" border="0" /></a>The OCC Planning and Regulation Committee have twice resolved to defer their decision on the Stonehenge Farm application – on 19 May 2008, and again on 21 July 2008, when they resolved that they would defer “until such time as the final West Oxfordshire District Council Strategic Flood Review was published”. The Committee explicitly rejected suggestions that the decision should be deferred to the next meeting or to any specific date.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Since 2004, when the current episode of the Stonehenge Farm saga was first trailed by Hanson Aggregates, OUTRAGE has consistently argued that the application is flawed and inconsistent with the Council's own policies. In particular OUTRAGE has argued that the <a href="#floodplain">floodplain at the confluence of two rivers</a> is the wrong place to put a massive quarry.<br /><br />Until recently the Environment Agency has refused reasonable requests by OUTRAGE that the applicant should be required to do the kind of modelling that would allow us to understand how the Stonehenge Farm quarry would change the flood risk for Moreton, Standlake and Northmoor. But the Environment Agency appears now, from an email it has recently sent to OUTRAGE, to be reconsidering its position.<br /><br />Since 2004, the floods of July 2007 have demonstrated that the risks are severe, and that there is very little margin for error. That is why members of the Committee decided that they should not determine this application until West Oxfordshire District Council had published their 2007 Flood Review.<br /><br />OCC has in any case commissioned, together with WODC and Cherwell District Council, a Joint Strategic Flood Risk Assessment which is due to be published in early December. This document will specifically address the impact of further mineral extraction in the Lower Windrush Valley floodplain.<br /><br />The Joint Strategic Flood Risk Assessment is itself part of the new Local Development Framework which OCC is constructing after its earlier proposals were rejected by GOSE, (Government Office for the South East).<br /><br />OUTRAGE has argued in its responses to this application that there are good planning reasons why it should be rejected, and that the Minerals Planning officers of OCC have<br /></div><ul><li>failed to give the Planning Committee a fair account of the arguments against the application</li><li>misrepresented the extent to which the area has already suffered from the cumulative impact of decades of mineral extraction so that a new quarry is inconsistent with the Oxfordshire Structure Plan 2016</li><li>failed to require the applicant to evaluate alternative sites and market requirements as required by planning law</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">Nothing has happened since 21 July to change the situation or to tilt the argument in favour of this application. The arguments for rejecting it remain as valid as ever.<br /><br />Solicitors for OUTRAGE have now written to OCC stating that to proceed now without the WODC Report, the Joint Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and the further information to be produced by the Environment Agency would be unacceptable and probably unlawful.<br /><br />Our barrister Harry Wolton QC has agreed to address the Planning and Regulation Committee when it meets on 24 November.<br /><br />It is very important that the committee should be exposed to public scrutiny on 24 November. If they decide to overturn their previous resolutions we should make sure that they do so in the public gaze. If they do decide to settle this question, we can encourage them to settle it in the only way that will protect our countryside and our villages.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;">Meanwhile ...<br />Come and have some fun at the <a href="http://outrage.express.ts.com/">Family Fundraiser at Northmoor Village Hall</a> on 22 November<br /></div><br />Our Fundraising campaign has been a great success. The attempt to nullify the majority votes of the OCC Planning Committee means that legal representation is now more important than ever. Your contributions have made it possible for OUTRAGE to instruct both our solicitors and our QC. We want to thank everyone who has helped in any way - by giving donations, by buying and selling raffle tickets and by buying Family Fundraiser tickets. There are still tickets available for this event. It'll be a great evening out, with wonderful food, music and dancing - and of course the Grand Raffle Draw with lots of fantastic prizes. Please come along and bring your friends.<br /></div>Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-3458052074393314992008-11-14T11:02:00.012+00:002008-11-15T10:01:52.808+00:00No Flood Report, but Stonehenge Farm on agenda<span style="font-size:100%;">From the <a href="http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/content/public/Resources/hlpdownloads/PN/pn241108.htm">OCC Planning and Regulation Committee papers</a> it appears that the Stonehenge Farm application is on the agenda for Monday 24 November 2008, despite the fact the WODC flood report has not yet been published, and despite the fact that the committee resolved on 19 May 2008 and 21 July 2008 that it would "</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size:12;"><span style="font-size:100%;">be deferred until such time as the final West Oxfordshire District Council Strategic Flood Review was published". OCC's officers now recommend that this resolution to defer should be rescinded.<br /><br /></span><br /><br /></span>Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-60914282710447217642008-11-01T10:38:00.002+00:002008-11-01T14:18:48.333+00:00OUTRAGE and the Stonehenge Farm Application<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:arial;">OUTRAGE stands for "Oxford Upper Thames Residents Against Gravel Extraction". We are a community group who have campaigned for more than 30 years to prevent and limit gravel quarrying in the area that surrounds the confluence of the River Windrush and the River Thames near the ancient bridge at Newbridge.<br /><br />The particular focus of our campaign at present is the application by Hanson Aggregates to quarry sand and gravel at Stonehenge Farm, Northmoor.<br /><br /><br /></span></div>Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4652592899888336290.post-84052509964249866252008-11-01T10:21:00.000+00:002008-11-01T10:35:50.174+00:00The OUTRAGE Fundraising Campaign<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-family:Tahoma;font-size:100%;" ><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">It is expected that </span></span></span></span><span style=";font-family:Tahoma;font-size:100%;" ><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">the Final 2007 Flood Report will shortly be published by West Oxfordshire District Council, and that </span></span></span></span><span style=";font-family:Tahoma;font-size:100%;" ><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Oxfordshire County Council will therefore place the Stonehenge Farm Application on the agenda of the Planning and Regulation Committee meeting on 24 November 2008.</span><o:p style="font-family: arial;"></o:p></span></span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:Tahoma;font-size:100%;" ><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p style="font-family: arial;"></o:p></span></span></span> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB">Meanwhile, OUTRAGE are gearing up the campaign. We have sought the opinion of a QC with experience of minerals applications and have been advised by him that we have a good case against Oxfordshire County Council. Together with the firm of solicitors who have advised us in our case against the Environment Agency, our QC will write a legal opinion on our behalf to all members of the OCC Planning and Regulation committee and will address the committee on the day itself.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB">All this will cost - but OUTRAGE believes that it will be a sum well worth paying. As laymen we have little power to move a Council so determined to favour this application. If we are to be taken seriously, our arguments need to be delivered by professional lawyers. For maximum impact, we believe that our QC is the man for the job.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b><span style="font-weight: bold;" lang="EN-GB">WE appeal to you to help us raise the necessary funds.</span></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB"> Our four-year campaign against gravel extraction at Stonehenge Farm is now facing its greatest challenge. The possibility of increased flood risk hangs in the balance, together with the fate of our roads, footpaths and countryside. We need to show that we are serious, that our opposition is real and that we will not be rolled over.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p>As part of our fund-raising campaign we are arranging a <b><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grand Raffle with a top prize of £500,</span></b> plus other prizes including a case of wine from the Oxford Wine Company’s own vineyard donated by Ted Sandbach, a Northmoor lamb (ready to freeze) donated by Julia & Graham Shelton, a meal for four at the Black Horse, Standlake, donated by Andy & Debbie Jones, a round of golf at Frilford Golf Club donated by Luke List, and a meal for two with a bottle of champagne at Pierre Victoire in Little Clarendon Street, donated by Claire Harvey. <b><span style="font-weight: bold;">Many thanks to all our donors.</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b><span style="font-weight: bold;" lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></b><span style="" lang="EN-GB">Raffle tickets will be £2 a ticket and the Grand Draw will take place on the evening of 22 November 2008 at Northmoor Village Hall.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p>A prize of chocolates and champagne will be given to whoever sells the most tickets.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB">Monetary donations of any amount, large or small, would be very much appreciated. They should be made payable to OUTRAGE and sent to our Treasurer:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB">John Downes, Greenfields, <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Church Road</st1:address></st1:street>, Northmoor, Witney, Oxon, OX29<o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b><span style="font-weight: bold;" lang="EN-GB">PLEASE HELP US TO SAVE OUR VILLAGES!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p>OUTRAGE<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="" lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a title="mailto:outrage@thegreen.co.uk" href="mailto:outrage@thegreen.co.uk">outrage@thegreen.co.uk</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <div class="post-footer"> <div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-1"> <span class="post-author vcard"><br /></span></div></div>Peri Hankeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17484924876965162860noreply@blogger.com