Consultation Results
Many thanks to those who attended the village consultation to give their views on speed calming, housing, and lighting. For our write up this month we are publishing a summary of both the lighting and housing survey responses taken on the day as well as feedback on speed calming. Minutes of our last meeting are available on the website and on the Parish Council noticeboard outside the school.
Lighting:
Summary
A majority of respondents said the current amount of streetlights in Brailes is “about right” (12 out of 21). No one advocated for more lights.
Though villagers think the number of lights is okay many appear to feel they are too intrusive and that dimmable, sensor, “warm”, or shrouded lights would be better. (11 respondents favoured one or multiple of these approaches)
8 respondents indicated a positive attitude toward “dark skies”.
10 respondents suggested side streetlights should not even be replaced if they were to break, which seems to further suggest the current intensity of lighting is excessive.
There is almost a 50/50 split over having traditional or standard style lights (9 traditional, 10 standard)
Those most vocal about having no lights at all concede lighting along the main road is still sensible to ensure road safety and safety for children.
Locations of interest
Winderton Road/New Park Cottages – there are two lights close together here which appears excessive.
Orchard Close – According to one respondent the broken light in Orchard close has still not been replaced with a solar substitute.
High Street/B4035 – A majority of respondents who live on the main road suggested the current level of lighting was about right (5 vs 3 who said there was too much)
Environmental/Sustainability Impact
3 responses highlighted the damage LED’s cause to insect life and the knock on effect this has to birds and amphibians.
1 response suggested lighting is a wasteful use of fossil fuels.
1 response, who also mentioned dark skies, wanted to go for whatever option is most sustainable in the long run.
Housing in Brailes:
The community members of Brailes express mixed views on a proposed housing development, highlighting concerns about location, affordability, environmental impact, and infrastructure. The feedback reflects a balance between the need for sensible village growth and preserving local heritage and environment.
Diverse opinions on development location: Some see the site as suitable and in line with village growth needs, while others oppose it due to proximity to heritage sites and agricultural land. Concerns about access roads and traffic were also raised.
Affordability and housing type concerns: Affordability is a key issue, with calls for more affordable and rental housing for local residents. The number of houses (16) is generally considered acceptable, though some prefer fewer homes to allow better space and access.
Environmental and infrastructure considerations: Respondents emphasize the importance of biodiversity, sustainable building standards, and green spaces. Key infrastructure concerns include sewage capacity, drainage, flooding, and traffic management.
Community benefits and planning adherence: Some feedback stresses that funding from the development should return to the parish for local improvements, and that the proposal aligns with neighbourhood development plan guidelines, though there is worry about potential future overexpansion.
10 for
5 against
3 mixed
Speeding
Speed Watch:
The Brailes Community speed watch received unanimous feedback on the day in support of a school safety zone, zebra crossing, and speed tables at several locations in the village. The group has the full support of the Parish Council. We hope to keep working together to finally tackle the problem of speeding in the village.
Now that this information has been collated, the PC will meet in sub groups to discuss how to move forward with each area.
If you were not able to attend the consultation day please contact us with your thoughts!
Contact: 07710554987
Email: br****************@*****ok.com
Next Meeting Dates:
Sept 29th
Oct 27th
Dec 8th
All are welcome to attend our meetings, your input ensures we take actions for the community as a whole, so if you’d like to raise a point or find out more about what’s going on in the parish please do come along.
Ronan Woods & Louise Appleton
