---

---

August 2006
Page 1
CONTENTS
		Page
	Introduction	2
	Descriptions of the villages of Littleham and Landcross	3
	The Rationale and Methodology used to produce the Parish Plan	4
	Household Data	5
	Environment	7
	Transport and Roads	11
	Community Services	17
	Housing and Development	22
	Communication	23
	Leisure Activities	24
	Into the Future	27
	Action Plan and Timeframe	29
	Final Supplement	Supp
Descriptions of the villages of Littleham and Landcross by Liz Shakespeare

Page 2 Return to Top

Introduction by the Chairman of the Parish Council

Welcome to the Littleham and Landcross Parish Plan. This document is the culmination of a twelve-month exercise to gain your views about life in the community and how you would like to see it develop in the future. The Plan is a snapshot of the views of the parish in 2005 and provides the Parish Council with a guide for the continuing development of our community. As with many rural villages, life has changed considerably in the last 50 years. There has been an increase in the number of houses and a decrease in the number of farms, but agriculture remains an important part of our community. The beautiful countryside and the supportive, caring nature of the people who live here characterise our parish. The Churches, Village Hall and Public House provide the main focus for the community. The work they do in supporting village life is particularly important given the fragmented nature of the parish and the lack of school, shop and Post Office. The WI, Skittles Club, Bell Ringers, and Tapissers also contribute to parish life, as do other informal groups, but if the parish is to increase the number of activities available, or pursue some of your other recommendations, then it is essential that we have additional volunteers to help. Please consider investing some time. Any offer of help, however small, will be most welcome. There are people to contact on the last page of this report. I was very pleased with the number of replies to the questionnaire and also with the quality and thoughtful nature of the responses. It has been suggested that the Steering Committee meet next year to review the progress of the plan and report back to the Parish Council. In order to be effective, this needs to be a ‘living’ document that continues to evolve as we meet life’s changes. A Supplement to the Parish Plan, which will include tables of data, graphs and written responses from the analysis of the questionnaire, will be available from the Parish Council. My thanks go to the Steering Committee for all their work and also to the many other helpers who contributed time and effort to make this report possible. Mari Galvin Chairman of Littleham and Landcross Parish Council August 2006 NB. References to ‘Parish’ throughout this document include both Littleham and Landcross

Page 3 Return to Top
Descriptions of the villages of Littleham and Landcross
Littleham, is a village of about 400 inhabitants three miles southwest of the market town of Bideford in North Devon and two miles from the nearest main road. The village sits amongst wooded and pasture slopes with glimpses down to the valley of the tree-lined River Yeo and over to the high ridges and skyline church towers of Monkleigh, Buckland Brewer and Parkham villages. Like many small Devon villages Littleham sits at the centre of a web of narrow sunken lanes, which wind between high banks; visitors are frequently confused by the choice of routes, each of which brings them to a different part of the scattered village. The pub and the village hall are at opposite ends of the village, and the church is at the end of a lane a quarter of a mile from other houses. The churches attract small but loyal congregations, and skittles and bingo nights at the village hall are well supported. Littleham is inhabited mainly by people who enjoy a rural view from their windows but who rely on nearby towns for employment, their shopping and their social lives.		Landcross, which shares the use of the village hall and playing field in Littleham, is situated two miles away, a smaller settlement of 78 people that straddles the A386 Bideford to Torrington Road. It is intersected not only by the road but also by the Tarka Trail, a beautiful tree-lined cycle track and footpath, which follows the route of the old Bideford to Torrington railway and passes through the Landcross tunnel. The River Torridge and its tributary, the Yeo, form 85% of the parish boundary. Some of the houses in Landcross are situated off the main road on a deep narrow lane; the tiny church huddles next to a cluster of thatched cottages at the end of another such ancient track.

Page 4 Return to Top

The Rationale and Methodology used to produce the Parish Plan

From the outset of the project, the aims of the Parish Plan were to identify the needs of the community, to set up action plans to meet those needs wherever possible, and to build an even stronger community. There are already many individuals who invest considerable time and effort in the organisation of parish life. In order to ensure we maintain an active and cohesive community in the future, others are invited to participate in whatever way they feel able. Above all else, this project has sought to include everyone, young and old, and this remains the overriding objective. Following a public meeting in June 2005, a group of volunteers formed a Steering Group to produce a Parish Plan for Littleham and Landcross. A questionnaire was delivered to every household in the parish, with a copy for every adult, starting in September 2005. The collection of the questionnaires was completed by January 2006 with analysis and report writing taking place during the spring and summer of 2006. The Questionnaire • The electoral roll was used for determining the houses for delivery of the questionnaires. 150 households in Littleham and 27 in Landcross were contacted and where possible a member of the household was spoken to about the questionnaire and Parish Plan. • In Littleham 242 questionnaires were returned (79% of the electoral roll) from 131 households. This represents 87% of the households on the Register of Electors. There were 22 blank returns. • In Landcross 44 questionnaires were returned (65% of the electoral roll) from 27 households. There were 2 blank returns. • Some households with more than one adult returned only one questionnaire. Unless otherwise requested these count as 1 in the returns. How the data was analysed A group of volunteers went through each questionnaire and manually recorded results of the quantitative data onto prepared tables. This data was then recorded in Microsoft Excel. In the calculation of percentages for the analysis tables, the total returns (242 for Littleham and 44 for Landcross) were used. Comments and additional information given by respondents were analysed by sorting them under appropriate headings. Supporting data not shown in this report, including a copy of the questionnaire, is available in the Supplement to the Parish Plan.

Page 5 Return to Top

Household Data

From the responses to the questionnaire the number of people in the household for each age group in the parish is shown in the table below: Age 0-4 5-10 11-16 17-21 22-39 40-59 60-64 65-74 75-79 80+ Population-males 3 15 10 6 18 57 22 21 12 8 Population-females 5 9 14 6 31 60 23 24 3 5 Although this data was put into different age bands from that of the 2001 census, the demographic structure of the respondents to the questionnaire is similar to that in the census. Further household data is shown in the table below: Littleham Landcross Number of households 132 27 Number of returns 242 44 Total number of occupants 309 68 Total number of vehicles 214 48 Number of vehicles with no off road parking 11 1 Number of housebound 3 0 Number of infirm 3 0 Number registered disabled 13 1 Blank returns 22 2 Any discrepancy in figures is due to return variations.

Page 6 Return to Top Analysis of household data reveals that Littleham has a high proportion of people who are middle aged. This may affect attitudes to local issues, for example regarding children, noise, etc. The needs of older and younger people need to be considered in decisionmaking. The population of Landcross is more equally distributed across the age range. Most households in each village have at least one car and because there are few local facilities these are used for visits to the local towns and villages for shopping, post office, doctor and dental surgeries, schools, etc., as well as journeys to work. A number of households in Littleham are not able to provide off road parking for their own vehicles, which can cause congestion and could also make emergency vehicle access difficult. Both communities are known to provide support for others in times of need and there is now a church pastoral care team with a pastoral care coordinator for each village. The confidentiality of the questionnaire means that the housebound, infirm and disabled cannot be identified but individuals within these groups may benefit from contact with the pastoral care team. (The names of the pastoral care team for Littleham and Landcross are given on page 32.)

Page 7 Return to Top
Environment – Highly valued aspects of the Parish and possible improvements
The Survey A wide range of positive aspects of living in the Parish was highlighted. There were some differences between Littleham and Landcross, but three of the top four were shared by both communities: • Peace and quiet • Rural views and surrounding countryside • Location (proximity to town and coast) The friendliness of the community came next for Littleham and although this was also important to Landcross, proximity to the Tarka Trail was highly valued. Other advantages highlighted were the lack of housing development and street lighting, and for some the lack of change over the years. One suggestion made was that Littleham needs a meeting place, particularly for the elderly and mothers with young children, both of whom can feel isolated. It was suggested that benches dotted around the village could help in this respect.	The Present Position The value residents clearly place on the rural landscape and also peace and quiet has been highlighted as crucial to any future decisions made by the Parish Council in terms of planning or possible street lighting. There are four benches in the churchyard and also one in the playing field. Aims • To use the Parish Plan data analysis if major planning development is proposed for Littleham or Landcross. • To look into a possible increase in the number of benches in Littleham and/or the playing field, together with other possible ways of generally improving the environment. Actions • In the event of inappropriate development being proposed, the Parish Council to inform Torridge District Council (TDC) of the strongly held views of the community in support of quiet, rural living. • A working group to be set up to look into improving the local environment of both parishes. Volunteers required.

Page 8 Return to Top
Environment – Issues
The Survey You were asked to comment on a number of potential issues in the parish. The results are as follows: 21% in both Littleham and Landcross felt that the height of roadside hedges was a problem. In Landcross 48% perceived litter to be an issue; in Littleham, 19% thought this was the case. Dog fouling was seen as an issue for 16% in Landcross and 26% in Littleham. In terms of the protection of trees and wildlife areas, broadly speaking, very few residents (none in Landcross and just over 10% in Littleham) thought there was an issue.	The Present Position The Parish Council has been informed of these findings. A dog waste bin has now been installed in Littleham in the lane close to the village hall. Aims To improve the environment by addressing the litter problem in Landcross, dog fouling in Littleham and roadside hedges in both parishes. Actions • The Parish Council will continue to respond, when these issues are brought to their attention, by speaking to the relevant person(s) or body and taking wildlife into account. • To monitor the situation by, for example, inserting an appropriate item in the Summer 2007 Crosslet (Church magazine for both villages).

Page 9 Return to Top
Environment – Street lighting
The Survey You were asked whether you were satisfied with street lighting in the parish. In Landcross, 32% said they would like more. One person said that lighting was needed on the bridge for safety reasons. In Littleham, only 12% felt that more lights were required. The point was made that some lighting was needed at the ‘bottom of the village’ and ‘in the centre’. However, 52% of people in Littleham and 42% in Landcross mentioned the problem of light pollution and stated that they didn’t want any more streetlights. The Present Position In Littleham, there are three streetlights at the lower end of Mount Pleasant. In Landcross there is one streetlight at the junction of the A388 and A386.	Aims • No increase in the number of streetlights in Littleham unless there is a significant change in circumstances, which makes an increase in number essential. • To research the situation in Landcross, particularly where streetlights might improve safety. Actions • Parish Council will investigate the street lighting situation in Landcross. • Parish Council to be mindful of the feeling against more street lighting in Littleham.

Page 10 Return to Top
The Environment – Public Footpaths and Rights of Way
The Survey This was not a subject you were asked about directly; however, when asked what other facilities you would like to see and, also, when you were asked to make general comments at the end of the questionnaire, a number of you referred to a lack of public footpaths as an area you would like to see addressed. One person enquired about the possibility of re-opening the rights of way, which were closed in 1954 by the then parish council. Another suggested that an increased number of footpaths, particularly to allow for circular walks, would enhance parishioners’ enjoyment of the countryside. The Present Position The Footpaths’ Officer for Devon County Council (DCC) has looked into increasing the number of footpaths in the parish. There is currently no plan to make additional footpaths or bridleways. The lane from Hoops Cottage to Upadown (Littleham) is not marked as a footpath on the definitive map and the legal process to put it on this map is underway. Unfortunately this path is often overgrown. The Tarka Trail is valued as an amenity and is used for cycling and walking by residents of both communities.	Aims • To encourage the use of footpaths by ensuring they are well maintained. • To consider the introduction of more footpaths if this becomes a viable project in the future. Actions • The Parish Council will consider support for the above aims.

Page 11 Return to Top
Transport and Roads
The Survey All data relating to Transport & Highways is contained in the two charts below. Details relating to each of these are presented in the pages that follow.	Note: Protection of trees etc. received a nil return in Landcross hence no data visiable in the chart above.

Page 12 Return to Top
Transport and Roads – Speeding traffic
Both communities highlighted the speed of passing traffic as an area of considerable concern. Some people in Landcross felt the 30 mph speed restriction was not respected. A suggestion was made that the 30 mph sign should be moved to include the entrance to Summer Ridge, to ensure that tractors can enter and exit safely. The number of accidents, including one fatality last year, emphasises the need for action.	“ My concern is the speeding traffic and the safety of the children playing” “ There are no pavements in the village and there is often nowhere to avoid oncoming speeding traffic. Something must be done soon before some pedestrian is seriously injured or killed.” 61% of the people in Littleham felt there was a need for a speed restriction in the village. The perceived danger spots were the centre of the village and the Yeo Valley Road, with 7% claiming that all roads in the village were dangerous. In particular, strong views were expressed on the speed of commercial and agricultural vehicles driving through the village. Clearly, speeding is considered a serious problem which not only affects the tranquility of the area but deters those wishing to walk, ride a horse, cycle, use a wheelchair, or push a pram, quite apart from the increased risk of traffic accidents.

Page 13 Return to Top
Transport and Roads – Speeding traffic
The Present Position There is a 30 mph speed limit through the village of Landcross. As yet, there is no speed limit through Littleham. John Wilde, Local Service Officer for DCC, who was guest speaker at the Littleham and Landcross Annual Parish Meeting, (May 2006) explained that, due to budgetary constraints, there is at present a moratorium on establishing any new speed limits. However, he gave some hope that a 20 mph limit was a possibility at some future date, should that be thought a desirable solution. The Chair of the Parish Plan Steering Committee has contacted PC Benson regarding local concern about the dangers of speeding traffic. He wrote a reply, a summary of which was printed in the June 2006 edition of The Crosslet and a copy of which can be found in the Supplement. This article also included references to Mr. Wilde’s comments as well as an urgent request for drivers to drive slowly through the village and to be alert for children and cyclists. The farmer, whose vehicles cross the village, has been consulted to discuss strategies to improve communications and safety. Mr. Mike Newcombe, Road Safety Officer for North Devon, came to address a special public meeting at Littleham Village Hall (June 2006) and work has commenced on issues raised at that meeting. A Road Safety meeting for children was held in August 2006 to raise their awareness of road usage.	It is encouraging that there is now a government initiative to reduce speed and improve safety on rural roads. Aims • To explore the viability and practicality of various methods for reducing the speed of traffic through both Landcross and Littleham. • To educate drivers to be more aware of the dangers of speeding. • To continue to raise awareness of drivers to the presence of walkers, horse riders, cyclists and children on the roads. • To maintain pressure on DCC to review the possibility of a 20 mph limit in Littleham once the moratorium is lifted. Actions • The Parish Council will continue to work with the Road Safety Officer for North Devon and PC Benson to address the concerns of local residents and make the roads through both villages safer for all who use them. • The Parish Council will liaise with DCC to monitor the moratorium on the introduction of further speed limits and continue to lobby for a safer A386 and A388. PLEASE DRIVE CAREFULLY THROUGH YOUR PARISH

Page 14 Return to Top
Transport and Roads – Street parking, state of roads, drainage and overhanging trees
The Survey Emphasis varied slightly between Littleham and Landcross relating to street parking, the state of the roads, drainage and overhanging trees. 38% highlighted street parking as an issue. Landcross Church was stated to cause problems whilst, in Littleham, attention was drawn to the centre of the village where, it was suggested, access was difficult for commercial and agricultural vehicles and could provide problems for emergency vehicles. Drainage was perceived to be a problem throughout the parish by 36% of you but with no particular area highlighted. Although only 29% saw the general state of the roads as an issue, a number of specific comments were made relating to mud on roads, damaged verges, overgrown hedges, damage on the bridge at Edge Mill and ragwort on verges. 21% drew attention to overhanging trees particularly down Scratchyface Lane and along the Yeo Valley Road. Some between Edge Mill and Landcross were considered dangerous. The Present Position An offer of land to widen the road in the centre of Littleham (Mount Pleasant) was not taken up by DCC because of the expense of making up the road. Although a number of people in this area have now provided parking in front of their houses, this has not been possible for everyone.	The Parish Council has been notified of the results of the survey relating to these issues. At present problems on the highway are reported to the Parish Council which then communicates with the appropriate authority for action on the issue. Aims • To investigate possible solutions to the problem of on-road parking in Littleham and Landcross. • To notify land owners when overhanging trees become dangerous to road users. • To liaise with TDC so that when the lengthsmen are in the village their time is used effectively to sort out problems with verges and drainage. Actions • The Parish Council to inform DCC of known highways issues in order to improve the state of the roads and verges wherever possible. • The Parish Council to look at the possibility of reducing onroad parking. • The Parish Council to work with police so that all public roads provide adequate emergency vehicle access.

Page 15 Return to Top
Transport and Roads – Road signs and road names
The Survey In Landcross, 25% considered road signs and markings a matter of concern; in Littleham, 16% were moved to comment. The absence of road names was seen as an issue for approximately 20% of people in both Littleham and Landcross. The Present Position The Parish Council has been informed of the concerns of some people in relation to road signs and markings; however, there is a need for clarification in terms of what improvement is envisaged, as some residents are opposed to further signs being introduced. It may be that it is mainly newer residents in Littleham and Landcross who have difficulty with the lack of road names. To overcome this problem, volunteers are preparing a ‘Welcome Pack’ for new residents, which will include a plan of the village with house names. Residents living at the entrances to Littleham are frequently asked for directions and have requested road name plates.		Aims • To make navigation of the villages as simple as possible. • To monitor the introduction of road signs and markings, particularly with reference to the introduction of a 20 mph speed limit in Littleham and a possible change in the position of the 30mph speed limit in Landcross. Actions • The Parish Council to liaise with DCC to see if it is advisable/possible to move the 30 mph speed limit sign in Landcross and the positioning of further speed limit signs if they become available. • For Welcome Pack distribution, see Communication. • To make a road map, with house names and locally known road names, available to all residents who would find it useful. • Parish Council to investigate the feasibility of road name plates for Littleham.
Mount Pleasant	East Furlong	Church Lane	Watery Lane

Page 16 Return to Top
Transport and Roads – the bus service
The Survey The survey results indicate that less than 2% make use of the bus service. 16% of Littleham residents said they would like to see an ‘ improved’ timetable. 23% of people in Landcross expressed the same view. 9% of Littleham residents and 7% in Landcross said they would like the bus to take a different route through the village. 25% of Landcross residents and 5% in Littleham felt that there was a need for the bus service to improve in terms of reliability. The Present Position Since the survey, senior citizens now have the option to receive a free bus pass for travel throughout Devon. This could make a considerable difference to the statistics recorded above. At present there are two buses going through Littleham into Bideford and on to Barnstaple, in the morning, on week days, and three going in the other direction, to Bradworthy, one in the morning and two in the afternoon. Four different bus routes pass through Landcross from where it is possible to travel to Barnstaple, Plymouth, Bideford, Torrington, Bude and Exeter. Clearly, if residents wish for improvements in the service, they need to make greater use of the buses that are at present available. This would also be desirable for environmental reasons.	Aims • To increase the use of the bus service to ensure that it is maintained in the future. Actions • To increase awareness of the bus timetable and availability of free travel for senior citizens by publicity in The Crosslet. • To inform bus operators of residents’ concerns in order to discover what improvements might be possible.

Page 17 Return to Top
Community Services – Utilities
The Survey You were asked whether you were satisfied with the mains water and electricity supply to the parish. You were also asked whether you would like mains gas if it were available. 87% declared themselves satisfied with the mains water supply; however, there were some dissenters: 13% highlighted a series of issues including an occasional brown colour and variations in pressure. Approximately 5% had issues with the electricity supply. Where negative comments were made they included intermittent peaks and troughs, occasional failure in bad weather and the fact that visible power cables detract from the beauty of the countryside. 26% said they would like to have mains gas supplied. The Present Position Western Power & Distribution and South West Water have been informed of the issues raised by the survey. Enquiries have been made about the viability of bringing mains gas to Littleham. The cost, the Steering Committee has been told, even if half the households were potential customers, would be prohibitive.	Aims • To continue to respond to issues when they arise. Actions • The Parish Council will consider support for the above aim.

Page 18 Return to Top
Community Services – Village Shop and Post Office in Littleham
The Survey Forty-one people (just over 14% of you) expressed the desire for a village shop and/or post office. There was one comment to the effect that it had been done and could not pay its way. The Present Position Although only a small percentage was pro-active in making reference to this possibility, the assumption that such a suggestion would be unrealistic may have deterred others. There is the possibility of setting up a ‘Community’ Village Shop, run by volunteers. The Community Council of Devon (CCD) offers advice and ‘hands on’ support, should there be sufficient demand and enough willing volunteers. The way ahead can, perhaps, be clarified at the public meeting, which will follow the publication of this Parish Plan. Aims • To research the extent of the demand for a village shop and/or post office. • To seek help from the CCD, if appropriate. Actions • On receipt of the Parish Plan, residents are asked to contact the Steering Committee (see contacts on page 32) if they would like to be involved in setting up a village shop and/or post office.

Page 19 Return to Top
Community Services – Telephone (landline and mobile) and Broadband
The Survey Almost everyone in Landcross expressed satisfaction with the telephone service (landline). However, in Littleham, 18% felt there was cause for complaint. The issues were: gaps in service ranging from 2 weeks to, on one occasion, 2 months, frequent faults and noisy lines. As far as mobile phone reception was concerned, 58% of Landcross residents expressed dissatisfaction, whilst 33% in Littleham were unhappy with the status quo. The comments made were, broadly, critical of Orange – this could, of course, be because Orange is the provider used by the majority. A superficial glance at the findings as far as Broadband reception is concerned, would suggest that 22% experience problems receiving it. However, it has become obvious, since the survey, that the questionnaire failed to establish how many of you had, in fact, tried to get Broadband; indeed, it failed to discover the percentage of those owning a computer and with internet access. The figure for those unable to gain internet access through Broadband, could, therefore, be much higher. The Present Position BT has been informed of the findings of the survey in respect of the telephone service. Mobile phone reception is clearly patchy in Littleham and worse in Landcross. Orange has been contacted to discover whether a new mast is planned to improve the situation.	Research is being carried out in terms of the factors, which inhibit Broadband reception and what can be done to improve the situation. Aims To improve all aspects of telephone connection. Actions • Switching to another service provider could be a solution for those experiencing problems with Orange. Vodaphone appears to have good coverage in Littleham. • Continue investigation into the extent of the Broadband issue and take up with service providers. • Where appropriate, the Parish Council will lobby service providers in support of the above aim.

Page 20 Return to Top
Community Services – Refuse collection and recycling
The Survey Although 97% were happy with the refuse collection service, 2% in Littleham and 9% in Landcross highlighted certain problems. Three people, of which two were Landcross residents, talked about bottles and cans left in the road. One household in Landcross complained that refuse had to be taken to the main highway. The recycling system had a pretty good press, although some dissatisfaction was expressed, particularly in Landcross where over 15% were unhappy with the service. Certain households complained they did not have green wheelie bins. Two people expressed the need to have more frequent collection of garden refuse.	The Present Position TDC has been informed of the survey’s findings. They have assured the Steering Committee that if a household has not been provided with a green wheelie bin, it will be because the service cannot access the property. Aims • To work with TDC to encourage recycling. • To monitor the situation in Landcross regarding rubbish left on the road. Actions • The Parish Council will consider support for the above aims.

Community Services – Mobile library

The Survey A minority in both communities expressed dissatisfaction with the service. The main issue was that some people were not aware of the existence of the library service. There was a suggestion that the library van needed to stop for a longer period and that it would be helpful if it stopped at Littleham Court. The Present Position Dates and the stopping place for the mobile library service are available in The Crosslet each month. To combat the lack of awareness of some residents, more detailed information about the system has been included in the September 2006 edition

of The Crosslet. Additionally, DCC has been asked whether it would be possible for the van to stop at Littleham Court. Aims • To encourage residents to use the library service on a more regular basis. Actions • To give information about the mobile library in the Welcome Pack for new residents. • To use informal communication to remind residents about the library van.

Page 21 Return to Top
Community Services – Policing and Security
The Survey	The Present Position The crime rate in Littleham and Landcross for 2005-6 is, fortunately, exceedingly low. The risk of being burgled, whilst not non-existent, is, according to past records, very slight. Likewise, whilst child safety is perceived by a number of residents as a matter for concern, the statistics do not support this perception. However, this should not lead to complacency. We share a community policeman with six other parishes and he visits Littleham and Landcross when the need arises. Landcross already has a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Volunteers in Littleham have been approached with a view to setting up a similar scheme. Both villages have drawn up Self-help Emergency Plans which are held by the Parish Council. Aims • To encourage all road users to be conscious of safety on the road at all times – see Transport section above. • To encourage volunteers to set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Participation in an active scheme has the added benefit of reducing household insurance. • There should be no reduction in the police presence in Littleham and Landcross and links with the Community Policeman should be retained at least at the current level. Actions • The Parish Council will act, where appropriate, to support the above aims.
You were asked what your main safety concerns were. The speed of the traffic came at the top of the list. This is dealt with in the Transport and Roads section above. 51% gave ‘ burglary’ as their main concern. 28% highlighted ‘child safety’ and ‘lack of police presence’ as issues. Problems of emergency access were highlighted here and this too is dealt with in the Transport section above. Antisocial behaviour and noisy neighbours were concerns for just a few of you. One obvious solution to safety concerns is a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. 81% of Landcross residents and 52% of those in Littleham felt that a Neighbourhood Watch scheme was important.

Page 22 Return to Top
Housing and Development
The Survey The questionnaire asked two related questions: (a) What kind of development do you think the parish needs? and (b) What type of development would be acceptable in the parish? There was only limited support for housing development in either Littleham or Landcross and negligible support for any large site development. The strongest support was for no development at all: 51% in Landcross and 35% in Littleham indicated that any new housing would be undesirable. 30% in Landcross and 27% in Littleham supported developments, preferably of single houses, between other houses and, according to the survey, any new housing should be for ‘young’ and ‘local’ residents. 33% of respondents who supported development suggested ‘affordable’ housing for ‘ young people’. The Present Position The Torridge District Local Plan is at present being adapted to the new Local Development Framework. At present the Parish Council refer to the Torridge District Local Plan when considering planning applications.	The Parish Council is aware of the findings of the survey. TDC will be provided with a copy of the Parish Plan for views to be fed into the Local Development Framework. Aims • TDC to work more closely with the Parish Council to ensure decision making with regard to planning applications is consistent. • Parish Council will take into account the results of the survey when making recommendations for planning applications. Actions • The Parish Council will work to achieve the above aims. • The Parish Council will consult residents further should they become aware of any new developments, in excess of three dwellings, which could adversely affect the parish.

Page 23 Return to Top
Communication
The Survey At present, the main method of communication within the parish is the church sponsored monthly magazine, The Crosslet. You were asked if you felt this was sufficient: 60% felt it was; however, 16% in Littleham and 9% in Landcross disagreed. There are also two notice boards in Littleham, one at the Village Hall and one in the centre of the village. Landcross has one notice board. Various suggestions were made for improving the situation. Several people suggested notice boards, giving the impression that they were unaware of those already existing. Others proposed an increase in the number of notice boards. A Parish website was suggested by a number of people. Leaflets, advertising particular events, a regular newsletter and communication by email (involving a central register of email addresses) were the other ideas floated. Various ideas were suggested for welcoming new residents to the parish. The most popular being some sort of ‘Welcome Pack’, which would include information about the parish, a map with the house names marked on it, a copy of The Crosslet, etc. The Present Position Living as we do in a period of rapid technological change and, indeed, demographic change within the parish, with approximately fifteen properties changing hands in the last year in Littleham alone, the community should perhaps be	prepared to extend and update the way we communicate with each other. Not everyone subscribes to The Crosslet; some may not be aware of its centrality in terms of communication. Certainly, a number of residents were unaware of the existence of the Mobile Library, which is advertised only in The Crosslet. The Parish has 3 notice boards, volunteers are preparing a Welcome Pack, and village events may be publicised in the North Devon Journal through our local correspondent. Aims • To use as many methods as are possible and practical, to establish good communication within the Parish. • To encourage volunteers to set up a Parish website. • To use leaflets to advertise events. Events will need to fund the cost of printing leaflets and arrange for volunteers to deliver them. • To continue to use existing notice boards. • To seek volunteers to distribute the Welcome Pack. Parish Council to consider making a grant for this project. Actions • Seek help from existing groups within the village e.g. Parish Council, Hall Committee, WI and also the Churches so that the aims set out above may be achieved. • Volunteers, with the appropriate skills, to be sought to set up and manage Parish website.

Page 24 Return to Top
Leisure Activities – The playing field
The Survey You were asked how you would like to see the Littleham Playing Field used. A range of suggestions was made. The four which found most support were: • The establishment of a play area within the field. • Setting up a football club. • A seating area to encourage people to meet and socialise. • A general plea for ‘more events’. The Present Position The Playing Field has been under-used, partly due, as some people pointed out, to its position out of the centre of the village. Two goal posts were erected in the playing field last summer; these have increased the use of the field by children on their own and by families. It is also used for the annual fete, which is a popular event in the village. Money was raised, over a year ago, to provide equipment for a play area; this is still to be used.		Aims • To set up a working group to research options for the use of the playing field. These options could be any of the suggestions already mentioned, an area with play equipment, picnic area, an environmental area with trees and paths, or other ideas. • To seek professional help if necessary. • To look into grant provision for any plan chosen where further funding is required. Actions • To seek volunteers for a working group to develop the playing field. • To inform the Village Hall Committee, as Trustees of the Littleham Parish Hall and Rifle Field Charity, of any ideas for the Playing Field.

Page 25 Return to Top
Leisure Activities – Looking to the future
The Survey As can be seen from the graph below, there was support for a number of activities within the two communities: Film nights scored the highest with 98 people expressing an interest. 62 people said they would support a Wildlife Group, whilst 59 said they would like to see more community meals including lunches, teas and suppers. 48 and 49 people respectively were interested in a Gardening Group and Historical Society.	The Present Position The Village Hall Committee already organises at least two lunches a year. The Methodist Church holds Coffee Mornings during the winter months in the Church Hall. Both of these are well supported. The Village Hall Committee is considering the viability of organising more frequent community meals. Volunteers have been found to set up film nights once a month starting in January 2007. Aims • To set up film nights in the Village Hall, starting in January 2007. • To find volunteers prepared to organise Wildlife and Gardening Groups and a Historical Society. • To introduce a gradual increase in the number of community meals. Actions • Volunteers to publicise and organise film nights. • The Steering Committee to approach residents interested in the proposed groups/societies, to find volunteers to start each one. • The Village Hall Committee to liaise with the Steering Committee where appropriate.

Page 26 Return to Top
Leisure Activities - Classes
The Survey A number of suggestions were made for potential classes. However, only two had any significant support: twenty people suggested Keep Fit or Yoga classes whilst eleven proposed a course in Computer Skills. The Present Position In previous years classes have been successfully run in the Village Hall, particularly through the Autumn Term. None is currently scheduled.	Aims • To allow the village hall to be used by groups who wish to run classes for the community. Actions • To publicise classes which have been arranged using The Crosslet and by informal communication.
Leisure Activities – as a means of fundraising
The Survey The questionnaire asked which of a list of ten ‘money-raising schemes’ you would support to fund any projects arising from the survey. No particular activity was highlighted as gaining most support; however, taking the two communities together, 35% said they would support Barbecues and Raffles; 31% gave their backing to Lunches and Jumble Sales. Auctions, Quiz Evenings and a 100 Club were close runners up. The Present Position A 100 Club already exists. The Village Hall Committee has been informed of the results of the survey. It now remains to specify the projects highlighted by the survey and find volunteers willing to organise activities. The annual fete is	always well supported by volunteers but if other activities are to take place, these will also need willing and able bodies. Aims • To support the Village Hall Committee with the work that already takes place to provide activities for the village. • To seek volunteers for additional community activities that will not only raise funds but also be enjoyable social events for all. Actions • The Steering Committee will launch a publicity campaign to enlist volunteers. • To support events run by the Village Hall Committee. • To encourage additional activities.

Page 27 Return to Top
Into the Future
Agriculture The parish of Littleham has six farms which have interests in the land: three large, well equipped dairy farms and three intensive arable and stock farms. With this situation little change of land use is likely because any land coming on the market for rent or sale would most likely be contested by farmers in the area. ‘ The Land between The Moors’ or Culm Area of North Devon is one of two pilot schemes in the country. Our parish is at the edge of the Culm area. The aim of the scheme is to advise landowners how to manage their land to their benefit, and yet to retain the identity of Devon with its grasslands, woodlands, hedges and rivers. The aim is also to maintain the wild life so that the rest of the community can make a living and enjoy the countryside, and tourism can prosper. The future for farming is predicted as a few large agri-businesses, a number of lifestyle farmers and the majority part-time. This growth in the size of the farms has affected Littleham because the landowners need to take large tractors and machinery through the village. This is unlikely to change in the near future. A route for tractors along Apps Lane has been suggested but this has not been used for very many years and although it is marked clearly on the map, it is no longer a lane in the accepted sense of the word. A route for farm vehicles around the village may be a viable solution at some point in the	future but the present situation is likely to continue for many years. It requires tolerance and understanding from all of us to help reduce the tension between the farming community and other residents on this issue; various actions to address the safety implications have already been highlighted. Development It is difficult to predict accurately how the pressures for new housing will affect our parish in the future. Many of you want the parish to remain as it is now and if there is new development, you want it to be small in scale and sensitive to the environment. The Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West (2006) (RSS) states in Development Policy A that “ The primary focus for development in the South West will be in those places which offer the greatest opportunities for employment, and the greatest levels of accessibility by means other than car to cultural, transport, health, education and other services”. In other words, not in our parish! There are concerns from Littleham residents living near the boundary of the parish with Bideford about ‘creeping urbanisation’ as development continues along the Clovelly Road. According to the Torridge District Local Plan there are sites available along the Clovelly Road for employment development but “any development in this area shall include adequate landscaping that reflects the character of the area and that provides adequate

Page 28 Return to Top
Into the Future …. continued
screening to long distant views from the south”. The Parish Council has already expressed concerns to TDC about the screening of developments and will continue to do so if necessary. Climate Change Climate change is already happening. The following are just some of the issues relevant to our parish which we all need to be aware of: The increase in temperature and the effect this will have on rainfall is likely to change the crops which can be grown. The warmer climate is likely to encourage more tourists to the South West, which may increase the demand for holiday homes and second homes. The expansion of the seas because of the higher temperature will increase the possibility of flooding over low ground. The current target (from RSS) for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is 30% by 2026 (compared with 1990 levels). This has implications for all of us because of our use of vehicles and energy. Regarding transport, the RSS wishes to “reduce the reliance on the private car by improved public transport”. At present few of us use public transport.	Targets are currently being set to increase the amount of energy generated from renewable sources and local schemes may become a part of that agenda. Who knows, we may in the future have small wind turbines in the Littleham village hall car park, solar panels for the village hall and a tidal scheme near Landcross. Small Businesses The owners of small businesses are happy to work in the village but one business expressed concern for the future because it was unable to get Broadband connection and this was affecting communication with customers. The RSS wishes to encourage small businesses and also suggests the provision of homes, which provide an opportunity for life/work space. This could mean that in the future more people in our parish work at, or near, their home. We hope that this Parish Plan will help in the continued development of our parish and, whatever the future has in store for us, may the best features of our communities be preserved.

Page 29 Return to Top
Action Plan and Timeframe
		Responsibility	Now	Short Term	Long Term
1	Environment
1.1	Support for quiet rural living	Parish Council, TDC	√	√	√
1.2	Set up working group to look into improving the local environment of both parishes	You, Working Group		√
1.3	Reduction in litter and dog fouling	You, supported by Parish Council	√	√	√
1.4	Encourage traditional maintenance of hedges and banks	You, TDC, DCC, supported by Parish Council		√	√
1.5	Street lighting in Landcross	Parish Council		√
1.6	Encourage use of footpaths	You, supported by Parish Council		√	√
2	Transport and Roads
2.1	Reduce speed of traffic through the villages	You, Parish Council, DCC	√	√	√
2.2	Reduce on-road parking You,	Parish Council, TDC, DCC	√	√
2.3	Improve general state of roads and verges	You, Parish Council, DCC	√	√
2.4	Ensure adequate emergency vehicle access	You, Parish Council, Police	√	√	√
2.5	Review speed limit signs in Landcross	Parish Council, DCC		√
2.6	Distribute Welcome Pack to new residents	You, Parochial Church Council		√	√
2.7	Provide village road map with house names	You		√
2.8	Encourage use of public transport	You, DCC
2.9	Investigate possible improvement in bus service	Parish Council, Bus operators, DCC		√
3	Community Services
3.1	Ensure ongoing satisfaction of utility provision	You, supported by Parish Council	√	√	√
3.2	Ascertain real level of support for community shop/post office in Littleham	You, supported by Steering Committee and Parish Council	√	√
3.3	Improve mobile phone reception	You, supported by Parish Council	√	√	√
3.4	Improve Broadband reception	You, supported by Parish Council	√	√	√
3.5	Ensure ongoing satisfaction and use of refuse/recycling provision	You,supported by Parish Council, TDC	√	√	√
3.6	Encourage use of mobile library	You, DCC	√	√	√
3.7	Encourage participation in Neighbourhood Watch Scheme	You, Police		√
3.8	Ensure adequate police coverage	Parish Council, TDC, Police	√	√	√
4	Housing and Development
4.1	Ensure growth is in line with residents’ wishes	You, Parish Council, TDC	√	√	√
5	Communication
5.1	Keep parishioners informed	You, Parish Council	√	√	√
5.2	Encourage setting up of Parish website	You, supported by Parish Council		√	√
6	Leisure Activities
6.1	Set up working group to encourage use of playing field	You, Working Group, TDC		√
6.2	Set up film nights at village hall	You		√
6.3	Find volunteers to organize wildlife and gardening groups and a historical society	You, Working Group		√
6.4	Investigate possibility of increasing the number of community meals provided at village hall	You, Village Hall Committee		√
6.5	To publicise classes available at village hall	Village Hall Committee, DCC		√
6.6	Encourage support for community organized events	You, Village Hall Committee, supported by Parish Council	√	√	√
7	The Future
7.1	Review progress of Parish action plan	Steering Committee, Parish Council		√	√

Legend		Timeframes
You	Residents of Littleham and Landcross	Now	3 months
Working Group	Volunteer residents of Littleham and Landcross	Short Term	12 months
TDC	Torridge District Council	Long Term	Beyond 12 months
DCC	Devon County Council

Return to top

SUPPLEMENT

INDEX

	Page
Introduction.	2
Descriptions of the villages of Littleham and Landcross.	3
What people like about their village. (P1)*	5
Where speed of traffic is an issue. (P2)*	7
Comments on public roads and highways from ‘Other issues’. (P2)*	8
Facilities wanted for Littleham and Landcross. (P10)*	10
Communication within the parish. (P12)*	12
Housing development. (P20, P21)*	13
Comments. (P23)*	14
Record of actions to date of publication of Parish Plan.	21

A copy of the questionnaire is enclosed.

*  The brackets contain the question numbers from the questionnaire.

INTRODUCTION

In September, 2005, a questionnaire was delivered to all the residents of Littleham and Landcross on the 2005 electoral roll. The responses to the questionnaire provided detailed quantitative and qualitative data on all aspects of parish life.

The analysis of this data resulted in many tables, graphs and listed comments; of these, the following graphs have been reproduced in the Parish Plan :

Issues relating to public roads and footpaths (P2)

Public services (P4)

Crime and safety (P18)

Leisure activities (P22)

Also included in the Parish Plan are the tables of results from the data for the household section (H1-H4).

The remaining results of the analysis are included in this Supplement.  A record of actions already taken at the time of publication of the Parish Plan (October, 2006) is also included in this document.

Littleham

The parish lies immediately south west of Bideford and covers an area of 535 hectares and is between sea level and 130 metres. The main settlement is the village of Littleham, which is partly situated on a class III highway approximately 7km from Bideford. Other hamlets within the parish include Apps, Old Moor, Langdons, Yeo Vale, Edge Mill, Hoopers Water, Moorhead, Littleham Court and Robin Hill.

The demographic structure of Littleham in 2001 (from census) was as follows:

Age	0-9	11-19	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59	60-69	70-79	80-89	90+	Total
Population	35	43	30	42	61	100	51	35	14	4	415

 

There are 175 dwellings within Littleham Parish and the number on the electoral roll from the Register of Electors (2006) is 305.

The main centre for services is Bideford (7km) with Barnstaple (21km) and Torrington (10km) also serving local needs. Emergency services are provided from Bideford.

There are no shops, schools surgeries or petrol stations within the parish. Littleham has a parish church (St Swithuns) and a Methodist Chapel with a Sunday School Room, a village hall, a two acre playing field and a public house (The Crealock Arms).

Littleham is in the catchment area for Pynes and Westcroft schools in Bideford (primary) and Bideford College (secondary). The village is served by a school bus service to these schools. However, many parents choose to send their children to village schools for primary education. There are also fee-paying primary and secondary schools within easy access.

There is a small general hospital in Bideford and a much larger district hospital in Barnstaple.

Landcross

The parish lies immediately to the south of Bideford and covers an area of 147 hectares. The main settlement is the village of Landcross, on the A386, near its junction with the A388, approximately 3km from Bideford. Other hamlets within the parish are Watertown and Pillmouth.

The parish lies on a spur between tidal rivers and rises from sea level to over 90 metres.

The demographic structure of Landcross in 2001 (from census) was as follows:

Age	0-9	11-19	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59	60-69	70-79	80-89	90+	Total
Population	4	3	3	12	9	10	17	6	2	1	67

There are 68 on the electoral roll from the Register of Electors (2006).

The main centre for services is Bideford (3km) with Barnstaple (18km) and Torrington (8km) also serving local needs. Emergency services are provided from Bideford.

There are no shops, schools, surgeries or petrol stations within the parish. The parish church is Holy Trinity. Primary school pupils attend Pynes and Westcroft schools in Bideford, or Monkleigh School. Secondary school pupils attend either Bideford College or Torrrington School. The village is served by school bus services. There are also fee-paying primary and secondary schools within easy access.

P2: WHAT PEOPLE LIKE ABOUT LITTLEHAM

(page 5 in the Parish Plan)

 

P2: WHAT PEOPLE LIKE ABOUT LANDCROSS

(page 7 in the Parish Plan)

 

P2: WHERE SPEED IS AN ISSUE IN LITTLEHAM

(page  12 in the Parish Plan)

Speed of traffic is an issue for 60% of those returning questionnaires from Littleham.

 

P2: WHERE SPEED IS AN ISSUE IN LANDCROSS

(page 12 in the Parish Plan)

Speed of traffic an issue for 73% of people returning questionnaires from Landcross.

39% are concerned about the speed of traffic along the main roads.

14% feel that the 30mph restriction is ignored.

P2: COMMENTS ON PUBLIC ROADS AND HIGHWAYS FROM ‘OTHER ISSUES’.

(Where more than one person has made the comment, this is indicated by a number in brackets beside the comment)

Safety issues

The road to Handy Cross is supposed to be a safe walking route to schools. It is not safe; overgrown and busy.

Sight obstruction at Moorhead Cross.

Emergency vehicle/fire/ambulance need 3m width. Parked cars could delay or prevent access to all houses down Church Lane.

State of Roads

Road from Groves Cross to village covered in thick mud and manure caused by impacted mud.

Waste of field soil dragged out throughout year and washed away (eventually) – requires mud clearance from front of house.

Damaged verges. Improve passing places.

Lack of pavements in lower part of the village.

Hedges not cut back to maximise the width of the road.

Debris from hedge cutting left in the road.

Erosion of banks by large vehicles.

Ragwort on verges.

Tractor damage to hedges.

Bank damage by tractors and lorries.

Low walls can damage vehicles.(2)

Commercial vehicles, HGVs, Agricultural vehicles etc.

Road from Landcross to Buckland Brewer not suitable for commercial vehicles.

Inadequacy of local roads to accommodate HGVs and increased traffic generally.

Farm vehicles overloaded, drive too fast, break banks and spill contents.

Very heavy lorries are using unsuitable lanes and bigger tractors.

Whole village affected by fast inconsiderate driving of heavy tractors. Serious accident inevitable. (2)

Traffic too big (lorries and tractors). Very tight on corner at Edgemills when 2 lorries meet.

Other traffic issues

Scratchyface Lane should be one-way only, bottom to top for access only.

Problem of noise from use of car horns by speeding vehicles on bend by Rose Cottage.(2)

Increase in through traffic, particularly when Torrington Road closed.

No signs “beware of horse riders” on any entrance to Littleham.

More parking places for cars

Footpaths

Footpaths overgrown at:

    Scratchyface to Halfpenny

    Ashridge to Upcott Mill

    Penningtons to Upcott Mill

Countryside access – more circular walks

P10: FACILITIES WANTED IN LITTLEHAM

(pages 7 & 18 in the Parish Plan)

P10: FACILITIES WANTED IN LANDCROSS

P12: WELCOMING NEW RESIDENTS TO THE PARISH

(page 23 in the Parish Plan)

P20: THE KIND OF DEVELOPMENT THE PARISH NEEDS.

(page 22 in the Parish Plan)

P23: LITTLEHAM COMMENTS

Roads – Animals

There is very little regard for animals – horses -  through the parish.  There should be more signs.

No signs for horses – there are a lot of horses in the village.    

Roads – ‘Rat Run’

Speed of traffic passing High Park on route to link road – now becoming a ‘rat run

Something needs to be done to slow down the speed of traffic between Landcross and Hoopers Water, especially around built up areas.

The traffic from Buckland Brewer uses road to Abbotsham as a ‘rat run’

We are concerned by the speed of traffic using the Buckland Road. Pets have been killed at Littleham Court, we have also had a few near misses pulling in and out of Littleham Court because of traffic speeding around the bend.  Safety is of great concern here; after badgering DCC some years ago they did paint slow signs at both sides of Littleham Court but have not kept up with it.

It seems the village has become a ‘rat run’ to Bideford.

Roads – Maintenance

I would like to see the road sweeper coming to clear the lanes of debris at regular intervals.

We would like to point out there are a lot of trees between Edgemills and Landcross that are overhanging, leaning and getting in a very dangerous state.  We have already had about four trees down in the last three winters.  One only a few weeks ago.  Have we got to wait until there is a fatal accident?  They need to come down.

The bridge at Edgemills just above Polards Cottage and Bungalow, is in need of repair, the cracks in the wall are getting bigger every year.  We think it needs to be looked at.

The trees on the road have been allowed to grow, so causing leaves to block drains and lead to flooding.  Trees should be inside fields if they want them to grow so tall.

The roads are a major problem, They are dirty and overgrown.  PCC are inadequate to improve the road problems and ineffective.

Vehicles

Speeding of tractors to stop

Very concerned about great increase in traffic through village, noise increase considerable.  Too many VERY LARGE farm vehicles passing at speed – main offenders are Contract Workers – who have no respect for the villagers. Boundary wall damaged, parked cars in danger of damage. Danger to small children playing in the road in the summer, when harvesting is at its height.

What would you do if a big tree came down or a car got stuck?

My concern is the speeding traffic and the safety of the children playing, also damage being caused to some garden properties.

Speeding farm traffic and traffic from Apps Farm development are a problem.

Am concerned about size of farm vehicles regularly going through the village – they are very noisy but the lanes are too narrow for the size of these vehicles.

Some also drive too fast, parked cars do slow them down.  Is there an alternative route for the larger vehicles around the village? The smaller tractors etc are not a problem.

The village is surrounded by farmland, it is managed mainly on a commercial basis, therefore there is a certain amount of heavy traffic flowing through the village especially at harvest time.  Consideration should be given to this when discussing roads, planning, parking and emergency access.

A 30 mph limit is needed in the village.

The speed of the vehicles going through the village, especially in the mornings is totally unacceptable.   There are no pavements in the village and there is often nowhere to avoid oncoming speeding traffic. Something must be done soon before some pedestrian is seriously injured or killed.

For village safety no road widening to encourage speeding traffic.

Parking

Parking at Mount Pleasant could be solved either by purchasing/donation of verge to parking for residents, thus clearing access for emergency vehicles and tractors. Or donation/purchase of land behind cottages for same purpose.

Keep the lovely country lanes and hedges and trees.

Off road parking essential with all property.

Fenced gardens and gates to prevent cattle or other livestock straying a big help

On street parking in the middle of the village can make access difficult for delivery vehicles.

Any new development should have off-road parking for a minimum of 2 cars.

All new properties must have adequate parking, properties should have gates and fenced gardens when living in an area with livestock.

Housing & Development

No more building in parish

Changes to farming may result in more light industries in the countryside. Any housing development will cause pressure on congested roads, school places and other amenities. We could have a small, sensitive development, incorporating green area and mixed housing, elderly, young starters etc. SMALL being the operative word.

This is a beautiful village and its essential qualities of peace and community must be protected – but it also need new life.  With house prices as they are I would love to see a SMALL, ecologically sound development of affordable houses for young families.  Perhaps this should have a local residency condition attached.

I would not like to see any major developments in the village.

Any new development should have off-road parking for a minimum of two cars.

The village cannot and should not have to cope with any more building, Littleham is a VILLAGE. The roads can just about cope now with the traffic, any more properties 2 cars per house – chaos.

Single track lanes into and out of village are not suitable to support any kind of development.

I feel any further housing development should be more in keeping with traditional Devonshire houses.

Businesses

Littleham should remain a village with unrestricted use of roads by all types of vehicle, or it may mean loss of commercial/agricultural businesses.  People must realise that some residents living in the village, not only reside there but run their businesses too.

I have a business in Bradworthy but would locate in Littleham if there were premises.  Also I cannot use my orange mobile phone which is a problem for my customers.

Littleham is a working village, if you live in the country you must put up with country people looking after the animals and land.

We hope there can be give and take between the parishioners and farmers working in the parish.  Please remember we are only trying to look after the land, tend our animals and earn a living from our farms.

Littleham is a working village, if you live in the country you must put up with the country people looking after the animals and land, eg. Smells, machinery travelling through the village etc.

Littleham is a country village with agricultural and commercial businesses, lorries and tractors must be able to drive through at all times.    

Amenities

Revive the village pond.- looks a mess at present, very sad. Last scheme allowed to fall through after so much work and effort.  The pond was in good order and used by cattle when I came here in 1951.  Declined when new housing scheme changed the drainage – in spite of pointing out to planners the inevitable effect it would have on the pond supply. This could be amended – those who state it never was a pond are in denial!

Little Shop 

A village shop/post office would be a big asset the village.

Meeting place for elderly and mothers with small children in a central area of the village, both age groups can be lonely and isolated.  More benches dotted through the village. Enhance the area around the bus shelter, bench flowers etc. Buy the small field on the right when approaching the pub to make a garden and tiny play area.

There is a need for a post office and shop but it has been done and it doesn’t pay

Pub & Village Hall activities should make sure no activities clash on the same day.

Need to build a strong community.  Car Boot sales.  Crosslet – Items For Sale page.

Improving travel connections would be good, or supplying post office and/or small shop facilities would be helpful.

Playing Field

Too far away for the younger ones to go on their own, defeats the object of the playing field.

Playing field ok for fete etc, hardly every used for original purposes.

Local football team would be a good idea. Other local villages have teams. I know of a number of young people who would be interested in joining it may unite the village further.  The running of the team can be easily found, just the facilities and local support areneeded for it to go ahead.

Children

Would like to see more involvement with the children. The lack of school or proper Sunday School or Club gives children little opportunity to make friends in the village or feel part of it. Parents need to be encouraged to do their bit and not leave it to a few older people to organise events or activities.

Strategies to involve young people in the life of the village, they go to different schools so do not meet on a regular basis.

I feel that Littleham does very little for the younger generation. Twice yearly gatherings at Easter and Christmas are not enough for the children to create new relationships.  We have been here for 3 years now and my children 11 and 6 have no new friends within the village, we only know our neighbours.  A park is vital to the village life and for the younger generation and although I know villagers are working c for so long.

Street Lighting

I do not feel the need for street lighting of any sort as one of the best things about living in this village is being able to see all the wonderful stars at night.

Services

Update sewage system

Mains gas would be better

Littleham is a lovely rural village and although it has been good to have a chance to comment towards the plan, please,can the village stay rural i.e. no street lights or pavements.

Village Map

House name map in appropriate place

Rights of Way

Re-opening of the 11 rights of way closed to parishioners by parish councillors in 1954.

Previous attempts to extend public footpaths vetoed by every farming interest within miles.

An increased number of footpaths particularly to create circular walks which allow people to enjoy the countryside.

Inclusion

We live outside of the village – we can and do get overlooked although not this time ironically with the survey!

As we live on the very edge of the village most of the questions are not appropriate to our everyday life in the village

Live outside the village , visits to Bideford infrequent, most journeys in fields away to where I keep my cattle.  Good for you, doing this questionnaire, Thank you.

We live outside the villages by choice and thus our comments may not be relevant to events within either village.

Although we live on the outskirts of the village, we love living here and if not working as much as we do, would be willing to put more work into village activities which will happen as we get older and have more time.  Anything that helps the village we would support.

Good Questionnaire – I will be interested in the result, please keep us informed.

Due to heavy work commitments as many others in the village, time will come when hopefully I can enjoy more activities and contribute more to the village. I believe this village cares very much for each other and we should be proud of it.

I think it is vital to ensure the community spirit is fostered and encouraged and that no-one feels threatened or excluded.  Littleham is a wonderful place to live and we need to work together to ensure that this continues to be the case.

Having recently moved to the village I have found that people are so friendly and have helped make the move to a rural setting so easy.

Crime

We need regular policing to deal with crime, unlicensed cars and yobs around the pub.

Dog Waste Bins

Totally object to the use of these. If dog owners want this then bins should be outside their houses as they are unsightly, smelly and unhygienic.

Dog owners should be trained to clean up after their dogs and take it home.

Negative comment

Until the local “crats” understand who pays their mortgage i.e. the local council tax payers, NOTHING will change.  We will be stuck with their politically correct views and out of touch ideologies.  This is just a PR exercise so they can claim they are reflecting the views of local people. Rubbish, join the revolution and rebel.

Pests

Fly infestations over the last few years have been particularly bad – culprit common head fly (Hydrotaea irritans), habitat manure but also fir and pine litter. Growth of non native species may be the cause of the increase. It can be a cause of spreading mastitis in cattle. – Forestry Commision have a policy to remove non native species for economic and environmental reasons and this should be a priority for our Village.  Our taxes are now paying subsidies to Landowners in return for their “good stewardship of the countryside” – we are paying them, the village must ensure that they keep their part of the bargain and yield value for money.

No more flies in parish – have had plague of flies last 3 years

Developments affecting the village

We are concerned about the impact and spread of developments in the Clovelly Road area or the intrusion of urban Bideford into the countryside.  Our amenities are affected considerably by the noise, glare and visual impact of developments such as Caddsdown and Atlantic Village.  The future Recycling centre, south of Caddsdown, which the County Council is forcing through would add to the despoliation of the countryside in that area and would increase further the adverse impact on our residential amenities.

Unhappy about the lack of communication coming from DCC to Littleham Parish on neighbouring greenfield developments.  Development such as this does have an impact on the village and whilst DCC have done the minimum consultation necessary it would have been more democratic if consultation with the Parish Council had been carried out.  A letter is being sent to local DCC Councillor and a copy will be given to the parish.

Wow! & No Change

Get people to smile

Generations of our family have lived in the village. Don’t want any changes.

Leave the village as it is.  

More communication and participation to be encouraged amongst all villagers, chatting encourages village community strength and support.

More communication between Pub, Parish and Church for village activities

The village is beautiful as it is and I would not like to see many changes.

Littleham village is fine as it is.  If you require anything that is not available in the village it means travelling to the nearest supplier, which is not a problem for anyone, as long as they are able to do so.  But this is something that has advantages also and must be considered if you want to live in a village location like this.  Beautiful countryside and peace and quiet have been here for a long time and hopefully will be here for a long time to come.

Housing

No new housing should be built

No development should be allowed, human greed being all consuming, If planning were granted, Landcross would be destroyed as a settlement

Like village partly because if has not been subjected to uncontrolled/ill-disciplined development which is apparent elsewhere in North Devon. Hope exclusiveness can be maintained whilst developing the Community Spirit.

Relationships – the two villages

The two villages do not share much in common.

More should be done to help the two parishes be more interactive and work together for the benefit of each parish, instead of the “them and us” attitude.

Roads & Hedges

End practice of leaving debris in the road after hedge trimming.

Kerbs at the side of road to stop water damage and flooding lower half of village

Road calming at lower end of Landcross

Footpaths

Proper maintenance for public right of way footpaths

It would be much safer for local residents if a footbridge could be put over the Tarka Trail, adjacent to the road bridge

Street Lighting

Street lighting at lower end of Landcross

Irritations

Ban Bonfires – they seem to run all day, every day in the summer

Ban late night shooting in fields off Yeo Vale. It starts at bedtime and is very disturbing.

Schools

Landcross Village is divided along the main road by an arbitrary school catchment boundary.  Socially divisive and unsustainable as it means that children of the village go to different schools and have less opportunity to car share or go on the same bus.  To say the least, this seems inconvenient if not inhuman to them.   What about after-school activity, surely the whole of Landcross should be in the Monkleigh catchment, and Bideford or Torrington for secondary schools.

5 children in Landcross cannot go to Monkleigh school by bus without paying – we are on the wrong side of the road and not the right catchment area.  Are we on the Old Side? Three other children are on the other side of the road and have free transport. Can anything be done about this?

Public Transport

Travelling by bus is becoming increasingly more expensive and disproportionate to the reliability of the service received

Return to the top