Welcome to the LOSRA Website
As with any other local neighbourhood, the policies and actions which affect the character and future of Lower Sunbury are generally framed and implemented by a combination of local and national government, along with the vested interests and market forces which operate within those frameworks. Lower Sunbury is by no means unique in being under threat from a creaking infrastructure brought about by rapid urban development, the growth of traffic, and other pressures affecting the quality of life and the character of the area.
Working with the local authorities, we see it as the responsibility of residents’ and amenity groups such as LOSRA to address the underlying issues which fundamentally affect their members’ lives, as well as the minutiae of everyday life with which such groups are often concerned.
Please sign up to receive our regular e-bulletins by subscribing via the facility at the top left hand of this page. It goes without saying that, without your continued support we would cease to function so we urge you to join, or renew your membership now Subscriptions (£5 per household) for 2024 are now payable.
Important Consultation Opportunity - Residents are Urged to Respond
The following email has been received from the Head of Planning Policy at Spelthorne Council. The Hon. Chairman, LOSRA was present at the meeting to which he refers and now urges residents to participate in the consultation which closes on 24th December:
At the respective quarterly meetings with residents associations and planning agents held last month we said that the government was expected to start consulting shortly on proposed changes to permitted development levels for home owners and businesses. We said we would let you know as soon as we heard anything.
Yesterday a consultation document was published giving 6 weeks to comment with a closing date of 24 December. The link to the relevant page on the DCLG web site is: communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/extendingpdrconsultation
The planning system has always allowed small extension and alterations to be made without the need for planning permission – hence the term ‘permitted development’. The key proposed change is the raising of the limit when planning permission is required for a single story rear extensions from 4 metres in length for a detached house (or otherwise 3 metres) to 8 metres for a detached house (or otherwise 6 metres). The consultation also asks for views about other changes in permitted development rules.
At the recent quarterly meetings there appeared to be unanimous concern from those present about the extent of the additional freedoms being suggested by the government. You may wish to take the opportunity to make your own response to the government.
If we can assist in clarifying anything in the consultation we will as always be pleased to do our best to assist. If you do make a response we would be interested to receive a copy so we can follow the particular points that are made.
Finally we can always advise residents when planning permission is needed and recommend this is always done. There is further information on the planning pages on our web site: spelthorne.gov.uk/article/587/Planning
Trading Standards 'Safe and Secure' News Letter
Following a recent exchange of correspondence between LOSRA and Surrey Trading Standards, this Website will be publishing the periodic newsletters produced by Surrey TS, the first of which may be viewed by clicking here.
We will also be publishing the occasional alerts which originate from TS and which can therefore be regarded as authentic and timely.
The first of these involves an Ofcom Text scam:
Issue: Be aware of a text message scam. Some mobile customers have received text messages claiming to be from Ofcom. It asks consumers to click on a website address and then enter their personal details. The text message claims to be from the “Ofcom Communications Team” and mobile phone number of the sender is six digits in length. This is a scam. If you receive the text message then do not click on the website
Solution: You can report the scam to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or via the website www.actionfraud.police.uk/
If you are concerned that you may have submitted your personal details then contact the Information Commissioners Office on 0303 123 1113 or via the website www.ico.gov.uk/
Sunbury Cricket Club to Welcome Downliners Sect on Friday 16th November
On Friday 16th November, the Sunbury Cricket Club welcome one of the legendary names of '60s R&B from the days of the original Eel Pie Club, where they vied with likes of The Rolling Stones, Pretty Things and The Yardbirds in their EMI days, and with an evolving line-up over the years, built around their original founder Don Craine, have stood the test of time as one of the best exponents of classic R&B and blues.
Still led by Don Craine (guitar/vocals), and including longtime stalwart Keith Grant (bass/vocals), they have recently added Savoy Brown Blues Band founder member John O’Leary, one of the godfathers of British blues harmonica, who played with his own band at the Club earlier in the year, on harmonica and vocals, the line-up completed by Del Dwyer (guitar/vocals) and Mark Freeman (drums).
They regularly feature at the current incarnation of Twickenham’s celebrated Eel Pie Club, and they will undoubtedly appeal to our many blues and R&B-loving members. There is full info at www.downlinersect.com, and you can find loads of Downliners Sect video on YouTube. The flier for forthcoming events details may be viewed by clicking here.
Don't forget our '60s night with The Beat Legends on 14th December, which will be something of a knees-up to kick off the party season, I should think.
Application for Special Needs Home in School Walk
An application has been submitted for the development of a 10 bedroom special needs home at the Old School House in School Walk despite the fact that planning permission has already been granted for the construction of two 3 bedroom houses on the same site.
An application such as this would not normally merit publication on this Website but, because the site is situated on a popular public footpath, its implications will be of interest to residents living beyond the immediate neighbourhood.
Representations should be submitted no later than15th November through the Council's planning portal
A letter of representation has been submitted by the Hon. Chairman, LOSRA and may be viewed by clicking here.
Volunteers Wanted for Sunbury Lock Island Clean-up
It has been a while since the Registered Charity, Thames 21 extended its remit to include the non-tidal reaches of the Thames and will again be coming to Sunbury Lock Island on Saturday 17th November from 10am - 1pm. This location is a charming part of the Lower Sunbury riverscape and we are being asked to join a team to give it a clean-up.
Volunteers are needed to help with removing litter and managing the vegetation. It will also be a great opportunity to learn about the environment, spot wildlife and meet new people. Volunteers are asked to report to the footbridge ahead of the lock at 10am. Old clothes recommended but all necessary equipment will be provided.
Details of the public events are also on the Thame21 website www.thames21.org.uk/events/
Luke Damerum of Thames 21 adds "Additional events may be added as we develop the winter programme so watch this space and please feel free to offer up any ideas and new contacts. I very much look forward to meeting you and your friends at these events."
St. Mary's Church Fair, Saturday 17th November
St. Mary's Church will be holding a fundraising fair on Saturday 17th November between 10am and 2pm.
The fair will feature all the usual favourite stalls, raffles, jewellery, toys, fairtrade goods. Hot and cold refreshments will also be available in the Parish Hall.
All are welcome to come and support the Parish and the future of our Church.
More...
Surrey County Council Asks Residents to Help Set Budget
LOSRA has been asked to publish the following email from Surrey County Council and we are happy to oblige:
Dear Surrey resident,
The county council is consulting with Surrey residents before it sets its budget for 2013-14. The council wants to get a better understanding of what services are most important to people.
You can make your views known by completing the survey at: www.sharesim.arachsys.com/login/surrey12.jsp
If you want more information please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone: 03456 009 009.
LOSRA Autumn 2012 Newsletter
Our autumn newsletter has been printed and is in the course of distribution.
Police College Development Action Group - Appeal for Funds
Thank you to those residents who have responded so far to our appeal for funds to cover the costs of fighting this appeal (See articles of 15th and 19th October).
We would be grateful for any donations, no matter how small. Whilst this particular development concerns one corner of Lower Sunbury we believe the the threat of over-development affects everyone.
We are now able to facilitate your contribution by Paypal. Please click on the PayPal "Donate" button below to make a donation to PCDAG (Police College Development Action Group).
Planning application submitted for gravel working at Watersplash Farm
As expected, Cemex have submitted a planning application to Surrey County Council for the extraction of gravel from Watersplash Farm adjoining Fordbridge Road between Sunbury and Shepperton.
Since the outcome of the Surrey Minerals Plan consultation process which resulted in Watersplash Farm being identified for working for gravel, despite a strong campaign by SSAGE (Sunbury & Shepperton Against Gravel Extraction) we have been in contact with Cemex, the owners of the site, to ensure we are in touch with the process.
Discussions have clarified that, contrary to SCC’s original plan, there will be no aggregates recycling plant at the site, which is good news. In addition, the plan for re-instating the site has been clarified. It would be returned to top quality agricultural land with the current market gardening company working it, while the eastern end of the site along the course of the River Ash would become a nature reserve with enhanced public footpath access. Working would last a total of five years.
We received word as we went to press on 22nd October that SCC has validated the application, which was unexpected as it usually takes longer. There is now, in theory, a period of 28 days when representations and comments on the application can be made. Thereafter, the planning authority then have 16 weeks to determine the application. The reality, however, is that the application is not expected to go before the Planning Committee before the second half of 2013, and comments will be accepted for way in excess of the 28 days and virtually up until determination takes place.
However, now that it is validated, we are working with Cemex for them to stage a further exhibition of the plans so that residents are fully informed. This is likely to be before Christmas, but obviously there has been no opportunity to organise it yet, so please keep an eye on the web site for details of this and how to make comments or objections. We will try to ensure that there is plenty of other publicity as well. There is a lot of information on the Cemex web site at www.cemexcommunities.co.uk in the “Shepperton” section.
One of the main issues remains the access to and from the site on to Gaston Bridge Road, and the effect on local residents, and this is still under discussion. In reality, having fought our case on this for several years through the consultation, we do not think there is a realistic chance of planning permission being refused, and our objective would be to mitigate the impact as much as possible. This is not a position of weakness or abdication of our responsibilities. There is no way that in the long run we can resist the working of gravel on this site. That battle has been fought several times over the last 30 years, and has now been lost. The best we can do now is to work with Cemex to achieve the best possible outcome for residents.
Planning Application to Install Asbestos Waste Transfer Station
Whilst not in the catchment area of our Association, residents may be interested to read a proposal for the installation of a licensed transfer station for asbestos waste at 111 Windmill Road. Details may be viewed by visiting: http://my.spelthorne.gov.uk/planning/ and quoting reference number 12/01265. The full application should be read carefully before deciding whether or not to comment. The closing date for representations in 2nd November 2012.
Top Indie Rock Act Diesel Park West at Sunbury Cricket Club, Friday 2nd November
Sunbury Cricket Club has already welcomed some artists with notable backgrounds in the music business during their series of Music Nights, and the next presentation on Friday 2nd November at 8.30pm maintains that sequence in no uncertain terms as the Club presents Diesel Park West, who enjoyed significant success during their time with EMI during the ‘90s, including chart singles and albums.
Led by the highly individual creative power of John Butler, Diesel Park West remain a respected force in the indie rock scene, retaining their roots in the West Coast rock sounds of the ‘60s while continuing to evolve their music over a series of highly-rated albums. Influenced by seminal California bands like The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield and Moby Grape, their music is always accessible and entertaining without ever being too “safe”, so there is no doubt that this will be an exciting evening.
For their latest album they re-unite with Chris Kimsey, who has produced the Rolling Stones, The Who and The Sex Pistols, and who produced their debut album some 20 years ago. This gig is promoted by Brett Todd, who has brought us Protect The Beat, Buddy Whittington and Barnes Blues Band, and we are pleased to announce another high quality event. The Club is punching well above its weight in bringing an act of this stature to Sunbury, so this is certainly one to put in the diary. Don’t miss it. For further details and to join the Music Night mailing list contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Info, music & video at www.dieselparkwest.com
Coffee Concerts at the Riverside Arts Centre
The Sunbury & Shepperton Arts Association is delighted to announce the 2012/13 season of Coffee Concerts at the Riverside Arts Centre.
The first concert on 17 November features the popular local pianist, Ingrid Attwater. In February we welcome Joseph Tong who gives a piano recital of music by Debussy, Rachmaninoff and Schubert. In March the talented Mirage Trio bring us music for flute, viola and harp and in April a welcome return by baritone, Stephen Willis, and guitarist Steve Christmas, who will present a selection of songs from the Renaissance to the present day.
Tickets for these recitals are £7.50 each and include coffee and croissant and tickets may be booked by phoning the box office on 01932 782788. Full details of the events may be viewed by clicking here.
Police College - Public Inquiry Concluded
After a gruelling 4 days for all concerned, the Public Inquiry into Linden Homes' application to build 44 houses on the Police College site concluded today.
The residents' case turned on the unacceptable levels of planning harm that would flow from seeking to maximise (as opposed to optimise) the development potential of the Appeal Site and can be summarised as follows:
- The Appeal Scheme proposed fails to provide any open space for children's play area and fails to mitigate the harm that this would cause.
- The Appeal Scheme would have a significant adverse impact on adjacent residential amenity in terms of the overbearing bulk and proximity of the proposed built form.
- The Appeal Scheme's density in terms of dwellings per hectare has led to a built form that is inappropriate for the area in which the Appeal Site is situated.
- The Appeal Scheme's proposed access onto Green Street is incompatible with the operation of the local transport infrastructure, namely the Triangle.
- The Appeal Scheme falls materially short of making appropriate provision for off-street parking.
The QC for the Appellants, Linden Homes, declared that "We have spent some time on the fall back position (44 units as opposed to 28 already approved by Planning Committee). As the site is in the ownership of a house builder, the principle of residential development is accepted and a planning permission has recently been granted for 28 units, the likelihood of re-use for a [residential training facility] recedes. However, as [a witness] observed, until this appeal is determined and the recent planning permission remains unchallenged by judicial review we cannot be sure. It would not be the first planning permission issued against officer advice which has been challenged by disaffected interest groups or residents (The Police College Development Action Group do not have the monopoly on local opinion)."
LOSRA has been advised that, in the absence of a challenge by judicial review in the High Court, Linden Homes intend to proceed with the 28 unit plan and, as indicated by the QC's statement, the reasons for appealing the refusal of the 44 unit was simply a precaution against any individual applying for a JR of the 28 unit plan already approved. We hope to be advised of the outcome in the New Year.
