(photo by Chris Baldwin)
From the Editors…
Gmail users please note…
There’s a lot of information in this newsletter and your Gmail may clip it. If it does, simply click on the “View entire message” link that Gmail provides. Copy for inclusion in the March issue should be sent to us by 1st March 2023.
Back numbers of the newsletter can be found at: https://madingleynews.substack.com
Please give new neighbours the link.
John and Fiona Naughton, Editors
madingley.news@gmail.com
Remembering Roger Buckley
(Photo courtesy of Lesley Crosland)
Roger’s death in October was a great loss to our village. In his other lives he was a distinguished ophthalmologist, a learned academic and a gifted musician. But as a resident he also made great contributions to the life of the village. He was a Trustee of the Village Hall for many years, for example. And more importantly (for us as Editors of this newsletter), he was for seven years Co-Editor with his wife Lesley of the print edition of Madingley News, during which we learned what a hard act they were to follow! When we think of Roger, we remember someone who was fiercely intelligent, unfailingly courteous and generous with his time and attention. And we miss his quietly reassuring presence. May he rest in peace.
John and Fiona
Contents (clickable links to the relevant section in the newsletter)
Diary Dates - Village Contacts - Parish Council Notes - Community Speedwatch - Police - Church News - Village Hall - CamShed - History Group - Madingley Hall (ICE) - Madingley Hall (from the Head Gardener) - Madingley Ponds and Lakes - News from our Public Representatives (M.P. and District Councillors) - Local Events, Activities and Engagement - Useful Household Information (Bin Collections, Royal Mail Collections, Bus Times)
Diary Dates for events in the Parish
see also ‘Local Events, Activities and Engagement’ section
December
Sunday 11th: 11am - 3pm (in the village hall)
Christmas Fair : Christmas gifts, tombola, tea, coffee, mince pies. All proceeds to support the Early Learning School, Entebbe
Sunday 11th: 3pm (in church)
Christingle service for preschool and primary school age children with their parents and carers (with refreshments afterwards)
Sunday 18th: 4pm (in church) - please note that there will be no morning service
Village Carol Service (with refreshments afterwards)
Christmas Eve (Saturday 24th): 9pm (in church)
‘Midnight in Bethlehem’, a Service of Holy Communion
Christmas Day (Sunday 25th): 10am (in church)
Family service, including Holy Communion.
January
Saturday 7th: 10-11:30am (in the village hall)
Community Coffee Morning
February
Saturday 4th: 10-11:30am (in the village hall)
Community Coffee Morning
March
Saturday 4th: 10-11:30am (in the village hall)
Community Coffee Morning
Village Contacts (and websites)
CamShed (Woodworking Group), Alex Barrett: alex.barrett1266@gmail.com
Coton School: 01954 210339
County Councillor, Michael Atkins: michael.atkins@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
District Councillor, Corinne Garvie: 07780 932267, cllr.garvie@scambs.gov.uk
District Councillor, Richard Stobart: 07950 934793, cllr.stobart@scambs.gov.uk
Madingley Cricket Club, Philip Done: madingleycc@gmail.com
Madingley History Group, Sue Baldwin: suebaldwin1000@gmail.com
Madingley Parish Church
- The Revd Christine Barrow: 01223 575089
- The Revd Michael Bigg: 01954 332040, vicar@madingleychurch.org
- Church Secretary, Sue Baldwin: secretary@madingleychurch.org
Madingley Parish Council
- Clerk, Karen Peck: clerk@madingleyparishcouncil.org.uk
- Chairman, Charles Crichton-Stuart: chair@madingleyparishcouncil.org.uk
- Vice-Chair, Fiona Naughton: cllr.naughton@madingleyparishcouncil.org.uk
- Victoria Keevil: cllr.keevil@madingleyparishcouncil.org.uk
- Joan Stevenson-Hinde: cllr.stevenson-hinde@madingleyparishcouncil.org.uk
- Andrew Wallace-Hadrill: cllr.wallace-hadrill@madingleyparishcouncil.org.uk
Madingley Village Hall (bookings, etc), Chris Baldwin: chrisbaldwin1000@gmail.com
Member of Parliament, Anthony Browne: anthony.browne.mp@parliament.uk
Police
- Emergency: 999
- Non emergency: 101
- Crime Stoppers: 0800 555111
Stephen Perse Foundation Nursery: 01954 210309
The Three Horseshoes, Pub & Restaurant: 01954 210221
Useful websites:
Madingley Hall
Madingley Parish Church
Madingley Parish Council
To look up bus times:
https://bustimes.org/search?q=madingley
https://bustimes.org/services/4-citi-cambridge-hardwick-cambourne
https://bustimes.org/services/pr1-cambridge-city-centre-madingley-road-parkride
http://www.go-whippet.co.uk/new-route-u/
To report potholes or broken signs, etc:
https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travel-roads-and-parking/roads-and-pathways/roadworks-and-faults
Parish Council Notes
Chairman’s Report
Active Travel Scheme
The trial of the Active Travel Scheme that has changed the speed and access into and out of Cambridge Road is now beginning to bed-in and there has certainly been a noticeable reduction in the number of vehicles using the road. Cyclists have reported feeling much safer when commuting and feeling able to let their children cycle on the road to school.
The implementation of the scheme has certainly had some teething problems, with a good number of drivers ignoring the very obvious signage that has been installed – with up to 50 vehicles being observed going through the no-entry signs and exiting the junction onto Madingley Road over a 1.5 hour period!
This scheme was not only intended to provide a safe route for walkers and cyclists to safely access the various off-road paths into and out of the city. It was originally designed by Cambridgeshire County Council to stop the rat-running traffic that would come off the Madingley Mulch roundabout and speed down Church Lane before reconnecting with Madingley Road; and to make the accident-prone Coton/Madingley Road/Cambridge Road junction safer. The Police have been made aware of the number of vehicles deciding to ignore the signage and have informed us that they will be monitoring the situation.
Hopefully a few £1000 and three-penalty-point fines will deter this dangerous practice before a serious accident occurs; but I would urge those who observe (or capture evidence of) people deciding to go down this one-way section of the road the wrong way (for the sake of 90 seconds!) to contact the Police. Reports can be made on-line or through the 101 non-emergency reporting telephone number.
Vandalism
Madingley has been mercifully free from vandalism until recently, when there have been a number of cases of malicious damage to property. These include: removal of a protective wooden path bollard near the Hall gates; vandalism of the speed signs at the top of Church Lane; vandalism of a street sign; vandalism of the ‘Road Ahead Closed’ signs for the Active Travel scheme (the three metal support stands and one of the three signs have been stolen and the two remaining signs were left face down, which caused serious problems and danger on Cambridge Road the following morning at the start of the Active Travel scheme); illicit closure of the Hall gates on more than one occasion; barricading of the entrance to the churchyard using part of the playground fence, causing damage to the fence in the process; flattening of the safety fence behind the entrance to the play area, leaving long rusty nails exposed and sticking up, and damage to the entrance gate itself; uprooting of several white posts on the Hall drive designed to protect the verge.
Initially, these wanton acts might have been regarded as childish pranks, but they have now reached the stage of criminal damage. Apart from causing disruption and danger to the public, this vandalism has generated work for the people who have had to repair the damage. It would be nice to think that these were the acts of people who were not residents of the village, but the nature and regularity of them suggests otherwise. They have all happened in the evening, and if anyone out and about (e.g. dog-walkers) notices anything untoward further please let a member of the Parish Council know so that we can act on the information and, if necessary, pass it on to the police.
Madingley Hall
If you have passed Madingley Hall recently you will have undoubtedly noticed the very large marquees that have been erected in the gardens. The Hall will be hosting three large corporate events on the 14th, 15th and 16th of December. These events are scheduled to start at 18:30 and go on until midnight. Attendees will be bussed to and from the Hall and should not be parking in and around the village. Although efforts have been made to address potential noise issues, the South Cambridgeshire District Council Environmental Health team have been made aware of our concerns. If you need to make a noise complaint you can do so by emailing env.health@scambs.gov.uk or calling 01954 713 000.
Playground:
The upkeep of the Playground is a constant concern of the Parish Council. Hopefully those who are still braving the outdoors will have seen the new net attached to the goalposts which was kindly installed by Councillor Naughton and some press-ganged family members. The ladder to the climbing frame is next on the to-do list.
At the last PC meeting it was also agreed that we would engage a contractor to undertake the replacement of the drainage pipes in the playground which should be collecting spring water and diverting it into the Hall lake. The current drainage pipes are perforated and have become repeatedly blocked by tree roots which results in both a very muddy entrance to the playground and sometimes the leakage of water onto the road outside. (In icy weather this is hazardous.) The works will undoubtedly create some disruption for a short period of time but will hopefully make the playground a safer and more enjoyable place in the longer term.
Charles Crichton-Stuart, MPC Chairman
Community Speedwatch
Our team of village volunteers continues to run speed surveys in the village, as we’ve been doing for the last seven years. As always, thank you to our team for your support
Speedwatch Secretariat
Police
E-scooters: Christmas gift guidance
The more organised among us might have started doing, or planning, our Christmas shopping. With that in mind, one of the big gift requests this festive season is likely to be an electric scooter, or e-scooter.
Following a presentation from Cambridgeshire Police and the South Cambs Community Safety Partnership to parish councils in September, we wanted to provide you with some helpful information about e-scooter use.
It’s currently against the law to ride an e-scooter on a public road or pavement. The only exception to this is in zones where trials are taking place, such as some areas within the city of Cambridge. In these areas, hired scooters can be used on the road and on cycle paths.
E-scooters can never be used on the pavement, and e-scooters you may purchase can never be used:
On a public road without complying with several legal requirements, which users will find very difficult
In spaces that are set aside for use by pedestrians, cyclists, and horse-riders; this includes on the pavement and in cycle lanes
You can buy e-scooters from many popular retailers, and your children may report to you that all their friends already have one. However, the law is clear - the only place an e-scooter can be used is on private land. So, right now, you can buy one, but you can’t ride it on a UK public road, cycle lane or pavement.
If you are stopped by police while using an e-scooter illegally, they will advise you of the current law about how to use one legally and ask you to take your e-scooter home. They may however still penalise you depending on the nature and gravity of the offence.
This is all because e-scooters are classed as a motor vehicle in the same way that motorbikes and cars are. This means they are subject to the same legal requirements, such as MOT, licensing, tax, and insurance. As e-scooters do not have numberplates, indicators, and do not always have visible rear lights, they cannot be used legally on the roads. Further details can be found on the following Government website at www.gov.uk/government/publications/powered-transporters/information-sheet-guidance-on-powered-transporters
Cambridgeshire Police say: “We understand the public’s support for environmentally friendly modes of transport. We want to work with the public to make sure the roads are safe for everyone. The UK Government is currently taking part in “Future Transport Zone” trials for e-scooter hire, with a view to making them legal to use on the roads. You can find details of the trails closest to you, at www.gov.uk/guidance/e-scooter-trials-guidance-for-users”
If you have a question, contact Project Officer – Community Safety Partnership, Beth Watson, on Beth.Watson@scambs.gov.uk
Church News
This autumn has seen us experiencing a mixture of emotions, beginning with the death of Her Majesty the Queen. Maybe it was not entirely unexpected, but when it came there was still a sense of shock that someone who had been a major part of national life for so long, was no longer with us. Immediately after the news broke, the churches throughout the land, including Madingley, went into frenzied action preparing special services, displays and information for anyone who came into the church to reflect in the peace and quiet. I have to confess that the numbers of people from the village attending these specially prepared services were disappointing, but maybe people were marking her death in other ways.
We suffered a more immediate sense of loss with the death of Roger Buckley, such an active and loyal friend to many aspects of village life. The church was full of people wishing to remember him at his funeral service, and the tributes to him revealed the full extent of his professional expertise and the impact he had had on the areas of ophthalmology in which he specialised.
At the end of October, thanks to Susan Rawlings’ work, we were able to hold a service entitled, “A Time to Remember,” in which people who had lost family members or close friends in the last few years were able to come and experience the reassurance which the Christian faith brings us at such times, and to mark those lives with respect and love. This was followed two weeks later by Remembrance Sunday, which was especially poignant this year with the absence of the Queen, but for this village it is always an important part of the year. Madingley, and one family in particular, lost a disproportionate number of young men in the prime of their lives.
Candles lit in remembrance of those who have died at “A Time to Remember” service
(photo by Chris Baldwin)
Chris and Sue Baldwin had a frightening call late one night from the centre which manages the surveillance of our church roof by monitoring the cameras placed up there. Apparently there was an attempt in progress to remove lead from the roof. With amazing courage they went there and discovered a vehicle but mercifully, having been disturbed, the men fled the scene. The police were very prompt in responding to the alarm call and had enough evidence to apprehend the thieves shortly afterwards.
On a more cheerful note, we were able to celebrate the baptism of Charlie Greenwood. His parents were married in the church some years ago, and as a result have remained members of this congregation.
We will continue to hold village coffee mornings on the first Saturday of each month from 10 to 11:30, but please note that in the colder winter months, these will take place in the Village Hall.
It will not have escaped your notice that Christmas is fast approaching. As always we look forward to having large congregations, and even enjoying home-made refreshments after some of the services!
The services will be:
Sunday December 11th at 3pm: Christingle service for preschool and primary school age children with their parents and carers. There will be refreshments afterwards.
Sunday December 18th at 4pm: Service of Lesson and Carols. A simple carol service and a wonderful start to the festivities. Refreshments will be available afterwards.
Christmas Eve at 9pm: ‘Midnight in Bethlehem’ (Midnight Mass service)
Christmas Day at 10am (instead of the usual time): Service for all the family
Hoping to see you all at some point in this joyful season.
Revd. Christine Barrow
VILLAGE HALL
I am pleased to report that all the regular hirers are continuing to use the Hall and we have been busy providing a venue for children’s parties and family get-togethers during November and into the New Year. Some days have even seen two or three hires in one day. This is good news though it does add some pressure to the management of the Hall.
A second attempt at organising a Village Quiz Night sadly did not attract sufficient responses. I will try to organise one again in the New Year. If you have any suggestions for dates or format that might help us to secure wider interest please let me know. This event always sold out ‘pre-Covid’ and it’s such a good way to meet the neighbours and make new friends.
The Village Hall will be hosting the next three COMMUNITY COFFEE MORNINGS held on the first Saturday of each month: 7th January, 4th February and 4th March. Do pop in between 10 and 11:30am for a cup of tea or coffee and some home-made cake. There is no charge (although a small donation towards costs is always welcome).
It is with great sadness that I record the death of Professor Roger Buckley who died on 12th October 2022, aged 77. He was a former consultant ophthalmologist at Moorfield and Addenbrooke’s Hospitals, an academic, musician and Trustee of the Village Hall. Roger contributed significantly to the management of the Village Hall and, with his wife Lesley, produced the Madingley Newsletter. His wise counsel will be sorely missed.
At the Village Hall AGM six Trustees were elected for the forthcoming year; Chris Baldwin (Chairman), Revd. Christine Barrow, Janet Dean, John Freegard, Virginia King and John Naughton (Secretary). Peter Teversham has stepped down as a Trustee after a lifetime of service to the Hall. His father, Den, was a founder member of the Village Hall in 1937, became a Trustee of the Village Hall Trust and became Treasurer. Peter’s sister Hilary served as Caretaker for many years. So, this is the first occasion, in the lifetime of the Hall, that we are without a member of Peter’s family helping the Village Hall in some capacity. The Committee is grateful for the many years of service he has contributed and we wish Peter and Vera many happy years of retirement.
We are hugely fortunate in this village to have such an amazing community resource as the Village Hall and this is largely due to the commitment of Madingley families such as the Tevershams and many others who have put in the necessary time to support its activities. Of course, in order for the Village Hall to continue to operate and serve our village, the Committee needs this group of local people willing to contribute a few hours now and again to the running of the Hall whether by contributing IT skills or doing a bit of gardening, by helping with the paperwork or in being the ‘face of the Hall’ meeting hirers and supporting their use of the Hall. If you would be interested in joining us do please get in touch. The Hall was built and equipped by Ambrose Harding of Madingley Hall and will be 90 years old in 2027 – let’s make sure it’s still here for another 90 years after that!
Subscription list including the name of W. A. Harding Esq (ie Ambrose Harding). The 2
shilling subscription went towards activities provided in the village hall.
Chris Baldwin (Chairman and Bookings Secretary - Madingley Village Hall Trust)
chrisbaldwin1000@gmail.com
CamShed @ Madingley Hall
The Camshedders meet every Wednesday from 11am. and you can find us immediately to the left as you walk out of the back of the Madingley Hall car park. Tools are provided and we would welcome any additional members who might want to join us to ‘converse, connect and create’. Otherwise just pop in and see us if you are curious.
Contact: Alex Barrett at: alex.barrett1266@gmail.com
History Group
The Madingley History Group has relaunched ‘post-Covid’ with two lectures in the Village Hall. The first lecture was an extraordinary insight into the finds that have been made along the route of the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon road scheme, from an extensive period of history dating from the later Prehistoric through to Roman times, given by Dr Owen Humphreys, Senior Registered Finds Specialist at the Museum of London Archaeology. The second lecture was given by members of the History Group, sharing their knowledge of Col. Walter Harding and his family and the effect that this amazing man and his son had on the Hall, its estate and village life between 1905 and 1948.
We were delighted to be joined on both occasions by old friends and those from the village and further afield who had not joined a meeting before. We are planning a programme of events for the New Year and will circulate further information by email to everyone on our contact list, by posters on the village noticeboards and via this Newsletter. If you would like to contact us please send your message to suebaldwin1000@gmail.com.
The Saloon at Madingley Hall after Col Harding’s restoration pre-World War 1.
Madingley Hall
From the Institute of Continuing Education , University of Cambridge
With Christmas fast approaching, we’re offering a range of exciting events throughout December to get you into the festive spirit. Why not join us at Madingley Hall on 17 December for our Christmas party night? Kicking off at 7pm with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by a three-course meal and finishing with a disco, it’s the perfect excuse to have fun after a long year. Find out more information and book your place at https://www.madingleyhall.co.uk/events/christmas-party-night-1.
Our Christmas lunch is taking place at 12pm on 18 December at Madingley Hall. You can choose two or three courses from our delicious menu that includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. View the full menu and book now at https://www.madingleyhall.co.uk/events/festive-sunday-lunch-2. We’re also offering our festive afternoon tea at 1pm on 18 December in the stunning Saloon at Madingley Hall. Head to https://www.madingleyhall.co.uk/events/festive-afternoon-tea to book your place.
The next residential weekend at Madingley is being held from 20 – 22 January 2023. Choose from our selection of enriching courses, including The legend of Faust and its musical heritage, Virginia Woolf in the 1930s: The Years and Three Guineas, World Order under stress and Gardens and plants in Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece. Visit www.ice.cam.ac.uk/weekend today to book your place. Non-residential places are also available.
Have you decided on your new year’s resolution yet? Perhaps you're considering taking a new class to further your personal and professional development? If so, we may have just the thing for you. Our next series of 7-week online courses is beginning in January. With courses on team coaching, King Lear and blogging and writing for online audiences, there really is something for everyone. Head to: https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/online today to see the full list of courses we’re offering.
Applications for our award-bearing undergraduate courses will be opening from mid-December. Our online, part-time certificates and diplomas are a popular option for those who cannot commit themselves to a full-time three-year bachelor’s degree. View our full list of courses at https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate-certificates-and-diplomas and start your journey with ICE today.
If there’s a particular course you’re interested in, we have several open days coming up throughout December and early next year where you can find out more and ask any questions you may have. View our upcoming events and book your free place at www.ice.cam.ac.uk/events.
If you're struggling for present ideas, why not give the gift of learning this holiday season? Our gift vouchers can be redeemed against a wide range of our short and online courses. Find out more at https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/gift-vouchers.
We wish you a restful holiday period and a very happy New Year. As ever, we will continue to update you throughout the year and look forward to seeing you at Madingley Hall very soon.
Amelia Scott
Madingley Hall
From the Head Gardener
On 30 October 1992, the late Duke of Edinburgh planted the fastigiate beech tree, Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck' growing adjacent to the tower of St Mary Magdalene, part of his visit to celebrate the 900th anniversary of the church.
The Duke of Edinburgh marking the 900th anniversary of a church in Madingley
The same beech tree, 30 years later
(photo by Chris Baldwin)
Thirty years later, on 2 November, we planted a hybrid cockspur thorn, Crataegus x lavalleei, in our meadow to mark the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee. The tree will be familiar to many village residents, since a veteran tree resides behind the railings to the side of the entrance gates to Madingley Hall. This tree has been a particularly good specimen, notably due to its dark glossy foliage which turns into reddish hues accompanied by large orange red berries in late autumn. A few years ago, we had scions (cuttings) from this tree grafted onto a common hawthorn rootstock, C. monogyna with also an intermediate graft using broad leaved cockspur thorn, C. persimillis 'Prunifolia'. These grafts were undertaken by East Malling Research Station in Kent, a leading horticultural research organisation famously known for its work on fruit. Today, East Malling is part of National Institute of Agricultural Botany based on Huntingdon Road in Cambridge.
Despite the sad loss of her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh, it is pleasing and reassuring that their legacy lives on in Madingley and a new generation of one of our finest trees has been planted for the future. In February, the 150th anniversary of the Institute of Continuing Education will be marked by a tree planting of an aspen, Populus tremula, noted for its catkins, autumn colour and trembling leaves.
Richard Gant
(Institute of Continuing Education, University of Cambridge
Madingley Hall, Madingley, Cambridge CB23 8AQ)
Madingley Ponds and Lakes
Following on from the work undertaken to improve Madingley Brick Pits in the winter of 2020/21, we have continued to work to improve the ponds and lakes in and around the village. In winter 2021/22, shading vegetation was removed from Fish Pond (in the woodland behind the Village Hall) and Horseshoe Pond (in the Park), and c. 500lb of carp were removed from the Front Lake to a local fishery. The fish removal was kindly funded by an Anglian Water/Cambridge Community Foundation grant. Carp stir up silt from the bottom of the lake, which then remains in suspension in the water creating a turbid appearance and suppressing the growth of some beneficial organisms.
One of the reasons the lake becomes over populated is because people feed the fish, which enables a population to grow beyond the natural capacity the lake can carry. The feeding of fish also adds nutrients to the water which encourages the growth of undesirable algae. Recently it has been noted that some people have also started feeding the geese in and around the lake, which creates similar issues. We would be very grateful if people would not feed either the fish or the geese on the Front Lake.
This autumn the pond improvement works have continued, taking advantage of low water levels following the summer’s drought, and we have removed shading vegetation from another causeway at Madingley Brickpits.
Peter Wilderspin
Rural Surveyor, University of Cambridge
News from our Public Representatives
Anthony Browne MP
For an update on Anthony Browne’s concerns and activities, see:
https://www.anthonybrowne.org/news
From our District Councillors, Corinne Garvie and Richard Stobart
District Councillors’ report to Madingley Parish Council, 17th November 2022
Making Connections: A City Access Public Consultation
On Monday, 17th October 2022, the Greater Cambridge Partnership launched the Making Connections consultation. You can access the consultation at: https://tinyurl.com/39x36dts.
Individuals and communities can have their say on proposals for faster, cheaper, more reliable bus services and safer cycling through the introduction of a Sustainable Travel Zone. The idea of the Sustainable Travel Zone emerged from a series of consultations (including a Citizens’ Assembly) that considered how a new transport system could be funded. Charging for road use was the considered the best of the available options.
The survey is also available by post, phone, email or social media from now until midday on Friday 23rd December. There is a series of drop-in and on-line events. GCP has also offered to meet groups of residents to answer questions and discuss possibilities face to face. We strongly suggest engaging with the consultation process and if you have more questions than can reasonably addressed in the survey, please consider inviting a GCP representative to a Parish Council meeting. Access to “demand responsive” bus services is also up for discussion, particularly for the “orbital” routes. GCP don’t necessarily grasp the subtleties of travel in and around villages, and the consultation process is there to inform them.
However, in the short term we have some difficulties with bus services …
Stagecoach cuts to local services took effect from November 1st 2022. We understand that the single extended park & ride (PR1) service continues to run through the village. Please keep us (District Councillors) up to date with the local situation. We are reporting cases of hardship directly to the Combined Authority.
Cost of Living: Support and Information
Just this week, the SCDC cabinet approved a new package of measures which includes:
£100,000 top-up for Discretionary Housing Payments to support an extra 100 eligible families with housing costs.
£60,000 for Discretionary Council Tax discounts for anyone who can show they are in financial hardship and are not claiming from a scheme elsewhere.
A proposal to provide Localised Council Tax Support to provide up to 100% discount to some households and increase support for working claimants.
£15,000 towards a Charitable giving fund www.gofundme.com/SCDCcostofliving that residents can also donate to. Money will go towards low-cost methods of staying warm and cooking such as slow cookers and electric blankets for people struggling and those only just managing.
Expansion of Warm Hubs, (see https://tinyurl.com/yc5vdkt7 ) which are free cosy spaces which residents of all ages can visit to socialise, work, catch up with friends.
£15,000 to expand the Warm Packs that are provided to Council tenants so that they include an electric blanket, hot water bottle, thermos flask, blanket, thermal socks, gloves and hat.
Food parcels for people attending the Warm Hubs who are identified as being most in need, in parishes where there is no foodbank already in place.
Financially and logistically supporting the creation of new foodbanks within South Cambridgeshire, providing grants to other foodbanks to help continue their provision.
South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) offers a ‘Cost of Living’ webpage (https://tinyurl.com/fufnjuxy) that includes all known support information in one place: general advice and personal support; financial help and household grants; childcare; health, food and travel cost support; energy advice and support; and home improvements.
Community Chest grant criteria are being modified to permit parish and town councils to play a greater role in addressing local cost of living matters. Please check the details of the revised scheme here: https://tinyurl.com/4zdfyf6e. You can also read advice on how to apply. Please do approach us if you need any assistance.
Update on Ukraine Refugees
Many of the guests from Ukraine are nearing the end of their first 6-month hosting period. Not all host families wish to continue, so we are looking for more potential volunteers. If you are aware of anyone who may be interested in becoming a host, please encourage them to contact SCDC on HFULiaison@scambs.gov.uk. Those who are hosts to Ukrainian guests and/or an have interest in SCDC’s ongoing work in this area can sign up to the regular community updates by emailing duty.communities@scambs.gov.uk
“Visit South Cambs” celebrates its first birthday
SCDC’s “Visit South Cambs” tourism directory (https://visitsouthcambs.co.uk/) is now one year old and if you haven’t visited the site, it’s worthwhile doing so. During the year, around 200 local venues have enjoyed free listings and more than 230 local events have been promoted, from village fetes to art exhibitions). As Councillors please share what you love most about South Cambridgeshire using the hashtag #WeLoveSouthCambs. The idea is to build-up recommendations and insider secrets about the district’s hidden gems.
Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Depot Solar Farm
Plans for a solar farm to power electric bin lorries used by the Greater Cambridge Shared Waste Service have taken a step forward. SCDC pledged financial support some months ago and now Cambridge City has also pledged financial support. On top of this, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has outlined proposals to help fund the project, which they will discuss in mid-November.
The Shared Waste service currently operates two electric bin lorries and several electric vans; these are powered by solar panels installed on the Depot buildings. However, there isn’t enough charging capacity in the Depot’s local electricity network to meet the requirements of the Councils’ programme and there is an urgent need for an on-site renewable energy supply to enable a higher number of electric bin lorries to be charged using clean energy and this will be achieved by installing solar panels and a battery storage system on land adjacent to the Depot. The new installation will have the capacity to charge around 30 electric vehicles, reducing the councils’ carbon emissions significantly. Lorries that operate in parts of the district furthest from the depot will be replaced by ones that use alternative fuels.
Electric Vehicle Charge Point Grant
It is expected that proposals will be approved by the end of October for a new grant scheme to parish councils and operators of community buildings, for grants of up to £5,000 to support installation of publicly accessible electric vehicle charge points in order to encourage electric vehicle uptake within the district.
This would be for ‘fast’ chargers (7-22kW). Installations of a dual-socket 7kW chargers are typically £6,000-8,000 so this scheme could complement existing funding such as the Government’s On-street Residential Chargepoint Scheme or could top up existing funds for EV charging. In addition to serving residents without off-street parking it also allows anyone visiting South Cambs villages to recharge while they visit, for whatever reason it might be, effectively doubling their EV range.
Police survey
Police in South Cambridgeshire want to hear what residents think the neighbourhood policing team should be tackling. They are particularly keen to also hear from young people.
The survey can be accessed at https://tinyurl.com/yc5fvtw5 .
First ever UK woodland natural flood management guide published
A new guide outlining how forests and woodlands can reduce the damaging effects and financial impact of flooding on vulnerable communities has been published (25th October 2022) by the Forestry Commission, Natural Resources Wales, Scottish Forestry and Northern Ireland Forest Service. The new practice guide provides advice to landowners, forest and woodland managers, planners, practitioners and flooding authorities on how forests and woodlands can make a positive contribution to natural flood management and play a stronger role in flood mitigation. Councils are encouraged to share this practice guide where relevant. Please check:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/first-ever-uk-woodland-natural-flood-management-guide-published
Luton flight paths
Members and officers of the Council now have quarterly meetings with Luton airport and NATS. Please continue to encourage concerned residents to send in their complaints in the acceptable format. At this stage we will need to await the outcome of discussions and feedback.
Facebook users may also join:
Please also check Cllr Tumi Hawkins’ blog:
Councillor Hawkins is the Council lead cabinet member for planning.
Bin Lorry Fire
Discarded batteries put in the black bin were the cause of a recent fire in a bin lorry. The quick-thinking refuse team followed their training for such an event and the fire was quickly extinguished. Please advise residents to dispose of old batteries in the supermarket recycling bins, at one of the Recycling Centres (Milton is closest) or in a clear bag attached to your blue bin.
If you have any questions on any of these topics, please let us know:
Cllr Corinne Garvie: 07780 932267, cllr.garvie@scambs.gov.uk
Cllr Richard Stobart: 07950 934793, cllr.stobart@scambs.gov.uk
Local Events, Activities and Engagement
What’s on in South Cambridgeshire?
This is a website first launched in 2021 giving information on local events, places to eat and drink, markets, volunteering (e.g. on Coton Reserve), etc.
https://visitsouthcambs.co.uk/what-s-on
‘The Library Presents’
is a programme of arts activities, online and in locations around Cambridgeshire (some free) run by Cambridgeshire County Council. There is something for all ages across a range of art forms including; music, drama, art, dance, storytelling, comedy, puppetry, and magic. Bringing arts activities to locations across Cambridgeshire
Brochures and tickets are available in Public libraries, or visit www.library.live/the-library-presents
For a range of other events and activities in local libraries, see also: www.library.live/whats-on
Useful Household Information
Bin Collections
https://www.scambs.gov.uk/recycling-and-bins/view-your-bin-dates/
Royal Mail Collection times
Pillar box near Madingley Hall Gate
Monday to Friday: 9:00am
Saturday: 7:00am
Small box near No. 31, High Street
Monday to Friday: 4:15pm
Saturday: 11:30am
Bus Times between Madingley and Cambridge
If in doubt, please search on: https://bustimes.org/search?q=madingley
C G Myall Coaches, No. 8
(No service on Sundays or public holidays)
Monday to Saturday (Outbound)
Madingley (The High Street, next to the painted village sign) to
Cambridge (Drummer St, Bay 3, via Coton, Madingley Rd and Bridge St)
10:03, 11:33, 15:03
Monday to Saturday (Inbound)
Cambridge (Drummer St, Bay 3) to Madingley (the High Street, near the village hall)
10:30, 13:00,16:30
PR1 Stagecoach East
Please note that PR1 is mainly a service from the Madingley Park & Ride into Cambridge. There is a regular service between Bay 3 of the P&R and St Andrew St (Stop S1): outbound from the P&R from 7:00am - 8:10pm; inbound from St Andrews St from 7:20am-8:30pm. Madingley itself is served in addition by a single bus in the morning and evening!
Monday to Friday (Outbound)
Madingley (Opposite Park Lane and then by the painted village sign) to
Cambridge (St Andrews St, Stop S1) via Madingley Park & Ride (Bay 3) and Bridge St
7:15am only
Monday to Friday (Inbound)
6:00pm Cambridge (St Andrews St, Stop S1)
6:15pm P&R (Bay 3)
arrives Madingley 6:20pm
Stagecoach Citi 4 bus (Cambourne to Cambridge)
https://bustimes.org/services/4-citi-cambridge-hardwick-cambourne
*Please note that the inbound bus sets off from a different bay to where the outbound bus arrives.
Monday to Saturday (Outbound)
Madingley (request stop opposite Madingley Mulch, ‘Coton Inglewood’) to Cambridge (Emmanuel St, Stop ‘E5’), via Chesterton Rd and Victoria Avenue
7:10 to 20:10 (every 30 minutes
20:10 to 23:10 (hourly)
Sunday (Outbound)
9:10 to 19:10 (hourly)
Monday to Saturday (Inbound)
Cambridge (Drummer St, Bay 10) to Madingley (request stop opposite Madingley Mulch, ‘Coton Inglewood’)
6:10 to 19:10 (every 30 minutes)
19:10 to 23:10 (hourly)
Sunday (Inbound)
9:10 to 18:10 (hourly)
Whippet Coaches Bus Route U (Universal)
https://bustimes.org/services/u-madingley-road-p-r-addenbrookes-hospital
Picks up from the east side of the Park & Ride, on Eddington Avenue and runs via the West Cambridge Site, Grange Rd, Silver Street and the station to Cambridge Biomedical Campus (including Addenbrooke’s) and returns to the Park & Ride. (Allow about 35 minutes for the ride to Addenbrookes. The website provides a map of the route with bus stops.)
Monday to Friday
Throughout the day, approximately every 15 minutes
Saturday
every 20 minutes
Sunday
every 30 minutes