Pharmacy Provision

At the time of writing (late March), the BCA understands that an appeal is in progress against the rejection of an application to open a pharmacy on Kingpost Parade.

Apparently, the rejection was based on an assessment made prior to the closure of the Lloyds pharmacy at Sainsburys. The appeal process can take four to six months, depending on the need for an oral hearing. A second application has recently been submitted for a new pharmacy in Kingfisher Drive. This process takes up to four months. For more details see https://www.surreyheartlands.org/pharmacy-provision-in-burpham-and-merrow-guildford/

London Road Active Travel Scheme

Surrey CC announced on February 27th that:

• Section One of the scheme (from New Inn Lane roundabout to Boxgrove roundabout) will be subject to further review and decision at a later date, to ensure the needs of all road users have been considered. A new safer crossing point will be installed between Winterhill Way and London Road.
• The scheme to make Boxgrove roundabout safer for pedestrians and cyclists will be implemented.
• The council will not be taking forward the proposed further active travel interventions on London Road between Boxgrove Roundabout and York Road.

No timescale is given for the review of Section One or the changes to Boxgrove roundabout – the BCA will inform members when any further news is received.

For more details see https://news.surreycc.gov.uk/2024/02/27/way-forward-agreed-for-walking-and-cycling-route-in-burpham/

Gosden Hill

The BCA and BNF met Martin Grant Homes representatives on February 27th to discuss transport links. The Highways Authorities plan to provide direct access to and from the A3 southbound only.

This will force traffic northbound and in most other directions to go through Burpham. We expressed our concerns about the likely effect on Burpham in general and New Inn Lane in particular, whatever the location of the site access.

MG will be carrying out detailed modelling of the traffic impacts of the scheme, including New Inn Lane and the London Road roundabouts with New Inn Lane and Clay Lane. We plan to meet again when these results are available.

They currently hope to submit a planning application around the end of 2024 with construction starting about 2 years later.

A wider public consultation will take place once their plans are firmer.

Memorial Hall

We are – very slowly – getting closer to having the Hall back into community use.

In association with Burpham Church, Burpham Wellbeing and other interested sports and community groups, we have established a Charitable Incorporated Organisation to manage the Hall when it is not being used by the Nursery. We have agreed Heads of Terms with GBC, and it is with their legal advisers to draft a licence.

What are your priorities for Burpham?

The BCA is committed to helping everyone in the community, both residents and those who work in Burpham. In order to be as effective as possible we need to know what your priorities are.

The committee has come up with some suggestions, but we can’t do everything! Have a think and let us have your top five suggestions, including any ideas not on our list, and please email your thoughts to us on secretary@burphamca.org.uk If you do not use email, you can leave a message on 07513 366072.

Planning & Building Projects

• Monitoring Planning applications
• Impact of Gosden Hill development – infrastructure, traffic implications

Roads & Traffic

• London Road Active Travel Plan
• State of roads – potholes, subsidence
• Pollution – air and noise
• Parking issues

Environment

• Conservation and improvement, engaging with local heritage, history and culture
• Maintenance of waterways
• Flood prevention
• Water supply and sewage capacity

Have a think and let us have your top five suggestions, including any ideas not on our list, and please email your thoughts to us on secretary@burphamca.org.uk

Public Amenities

• Defending existing amenities – halls (Sutherland Memorial Hall open to the community), playgrounds, seating etc.

Helping the Community

• Supporting local businesses, services and charities
• Health, wellbeing and safety for residents
• Supporting vulnerable members of the community

Communication & Liaison

• Informing the community of current issues
• Arranging events with speakers, hosting election hustings
• Organising communal events and activities
• Liaising with our MP, Borough and Council representatives, relevant organisations such as the Environment Agency and National Trust and neighbouring Residents’ Associations.