Rural England
BEDFORDSHIRE
Who we are
Latest on Waste
Latest updates
Latest on Waste
2026 - A Vision for the countryside
East of England Plan Review to 2031
Living Countryside Awards
N W Dunstable Consultation
Windfarm proposals
Questions to Election Candidates 2009
In Bedfordshire Issues - Local Development Frameworks 
In Events - Details announced for the Living Countryside Awards Presentation
Latest on Waste
The Marston Vale is in focus as the site for at least one of two new potential wasteprocessing schemes. The consortium of the Councils which made up the formerBedfordshire has been working on the BEaR (Bedfordshire Energy and Recycling)project. The intention is to base the scheme at the reception area of Brogborough landfill site. The consortium is seeking expressions of interest from contractors and will consider all technology solutions. Bedford Borough has recently withdrawn fromthe project without indicating how it expects its waste to be managed, but the newMayor clearly opposes incineration.
American Covanta has proposed a major Energy from Waste (EfW) plant in theRookery Clay Pit at Stewartby. The company claims to produce up to 65 MW ofelectricity from 585,000 te of domestic and commercial waste. This scale of outputrequires the application to be determined by the Government’s new “fast track”Infrastructure Planning Commission, leaving the local authority responsible only forlocal consultation.
CPRE’s concerns, which are shared with the residents of the Vale, are:
- The visual impact of a 50m high building with a 110m exhaust stack.
- The loss of habitat in an area which has naturally regenerated itself over many years.
- The predicted traffic level which could be up to 600 HGV movements each daywith associated noise and dust pollution.
- This size of plant would need to draw a significant proportion of its waste inputfrom surrounding counties.
- Incineration is inefficient in resource usage and a significant contributor to atmospheric CO2.
- The proposal is contrary in many respects to the Minerals and Waste Local Plan adopted in 2005.
CPRE believes that much more effort should be put into recycling to reduce thevolumes of true waste.
CPRE is represented on the Marston Moretaine Action Group MMETAG - www.mmetag.com
Refer also to the short article on Waste in Bedfordshire Issues.
2026 A vision for the countryside
CPRE believes passionately about the countryside. We want to protect it, enhance it, and assert its importance in an increasingly urbanised society.
May 11 2009: CPRE publishes '2026 - A Vision for the Countryside'.
The CPRE has set out an inspiring and optimistic vision for the future of the English countryside, our greatest national asset in 2026 – A Vision for the Countryside, describing the countryside CPRE wants to see in 2026, the charity’s centenary year.
To mark the launch of the publication, Shaun Spiers, Chief Executive of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, said:
"The Vision – produced after wide consultation – pictures a countryside in 2026 that is used and valued by everyone, helping create a healthier, less stressed nation where people are in tune with the environment and aware of their impact on it. A beautiful and living countryside, accessible to all, has always been valuable; in tough economic times, and with people facing growing stresses in their lives, it should be priceless.
The British countryside is a great resource for the whole country, essential to our wellbeing and our sense of identity. Looking ahead to our centenary year, we want the countryside to be protected – and we want to improve it! CPRE doesn’t often admit it, but, although most of the countryside is lovely, and often breathtakingly so, parts of it are not as beautiful or useful or accessible as they should be. We want to make it better – and with your help we think we can."
CPRE Bedfordshire discussed the draft Vision at its 2008 AGM and looked at issues specific to Bedfordshire.
East of England Plan Review to 2031
Consulation ends 23 November 2009 - For guidelines to help you respond see CPRE Beds notes for East England Plan Review to 2031 PDF 32KB
For further information go to Growth Plans for Bedfordshire - Bedfordshire Issues.
Living Countryside Awards
Living Countryside Awards 2009
…for those caring and using the landscape
Our judges have toured the 14 short listed sites in its Living Countryside Awards scheme, covering wildlife on farmland, country parks, open spaces and village ponds, rural crafts, tree planting projects, the restoration of ancient churchyards and gardens, as well as schemes to help all ages to enjoy the countryside through informative footpaths and trails. The projects are the work of volunteers or commercial users of the land.
Mid Beds
1. Stratton Park Balancing Pond -
Balancing pond, developed by farmer to deal with run off from nearby industrial site has become a haven for wading birds and other bird life. Extensive tree planting (some 3,500 native species) and replanting of native grasses, reeds and orchids have all encouraged local wildlife. The farmer is now working with local groups to help manage the site long term for wildlife.
2. Bird nesting box project at John O’Gaunt Golf Club-Sandy
Over 9 years, a single enthusiast has erected 110 nest boxes on trees in rough ground around this extensive gold course, part of an historic estate parkland. 2009 has been the best year ever, with 500 chicks reared, ranging from blue tits to kestrels. All the boxes are maintained by bird watching enthusiast Steve Thompson who has set an example for golf courses across the country to encourage wildlife.
3. Extension to Henlow Footpaths and booklet of circular walks
Development of further walk to link with extensive footpaths network around Henlow Millennium Meadow, with new bridge and attractively produced book of local walks. The book has become a prototype for others of this nature while the scheme itself is a further example of community initiative and hard work by groups of volunteers.
4. Stotfold Mill Meadows Nature Reserve
Development of meadows into varied riverside habitat. 300 metres of hedges and 100 plus trees have been planted, together with an osier bed (already supplying local basket maker), otter holt, lakes and ponds all aimed to provide enjoyment for local residents, children and visitors.
South Beds
1. Luton Hoo Walled Garden
Fifth year of major restoration project of 18th century garden (4.8 acres) and buildings including glasshouses and conservatory with dedicated team of some 130 volunteers researching garden's history, re- planting flower beds according to historic list, restoring old buildings, giving talks and tours and organising occasional events such as Pumpkin and Apple Day on 17 October. Ultimately a Charitable Trust will run the site as a major local attraction on gardening, past, present and future. The gardens, part of the Luton Hoo estate, were formally owned by Lord Bute, one time Prime Minister, co-founder of Kew and the RHS. (Run by the Friends of Luton Hoo Walled Garden)
2. Little Green Pond Village
The pond and surrounding area at Caddington restored to create environmental attraction for all with enhanced wildlife habitat-birds and planting, an interpretation panel and bench as tranquil setting for locals and visitors. (Run by Caddington Parish Council)
3. Nude Ewe Project
The project sells ewe spun from flocks of heritage sheep breed mainly on Pegsdon Hills Nature Reserve, Shillington. The flocks maintain the grassland habitats by eating bramble and rough vegetation; the commercial project is an imaginative use of wool from the sheep which is then spun and knitted into sweaters and scarves, serving the local economy and providing funds to help recover costs for repairing fences, shelters and for the medical care of the flocks. (Partnership between Central Bedfordshire-formerly Beds County-Council and Natural England)
4. Songs and Plovers-environmental schemes to encourage skylarks, lapwings and other birds around Barton Hill Farm
The project has led to improving hedgerows and the creation of margins around cultivated fields to widen the habitat for a range of wildlife and plants. Former pastur for sheep has been given over entirely to wild flowers. The scheme has also led to a highly successful educational arm with visiting groups able to see the benefits of commercial farming managed alongside conservation schemes to protect our landscapes and biodiversity.
North Beds
1. Shelter Plus – Elisabeth Curtis Disabled Riding Centre
Tree and shrub planting on bare hillside to give ponies shade in summer and shelter in winter. Water loving trees will improve drainage, and increase the biodiversity and the visual aspect of the area.
2. Harrold Odell Country Park Orchard Project
Orchard using local and traditional varieties of regular and rarer fruit being developed by volunteers on previously disused land. This project is encouraging community participation and sponsorship of trees by individuals and local groups. In time it is intended that the orchard become an educational base for events relating to growing fruit.
3. All Saints’ Churchyard, Odell
Reclamation and restoration of neglected ancient churchyard to provide colourful or interesting planting throughout the year, maintaining a balance of mown grass and other areas left to encourage wild flowers and wildlife. A local community activity where individuals adopt older graves for maintenance.
4. Yelnow Farm, Odell
70 acres site of remote woodland and organic farmland developed over 10 years as a haven for wildlife-for skylarks and ground nesting birds, for water birds and fish, for bees. Locally sourced materials used for fences, seating and planting using traditional methods. The farm also provides employment for workers on organic farms (known as WOOFers) and for young adults with learning disabilities.
5. Wild Britain Hedgehog Play Trail –Wilden
Hedgehog trail to encourage visitors to use the Hay Meadow while learning about the life cycle of the hedhegog. Plenty of interactive challenges on the way. The route includes a bird hide and opportunities to build dens. An imaginative extension to a popular visitor centre which encourages the young to develop an interest and understanding of butterflies, small mammals, creepy crawlies and other wildlife.
Countywide
1. Bedfordshire Beekeepers Association
Across the county, bee and honey enthusiasts help to encourage more people to understand the contribution played by bees to wildlife and our environment through pollination. Around 100 species of birds and small mammals survive the winter eating fruits and berries pollinated by bees. The Association has an extensive programme of events and teaching opportunities throughout the year, some at their apiaries, to help people understand the pleasure a of beekeeping, as well as the importance of bees for a thriving countryside.
End of list
The judges have said: “We applaud the range of imaginative ideas being developed in this small county by those who care for our landscape. They all show how much there is to enjoy in our countryside and how the quality of our lives can always be raised by schemes to preserve and enhance the visual appearance and biodiversity of Bedfordshire”.
CPRE Bedfordshire is delighted that the presentations of our Living Countryside Awards on 3rd December will be made by Nicholas Crane, well known television presenter of BBC's Coast and Map Man series, award-winning author and journalist, expert cartographer, historian and explorer with a passion for the English countryside. To purchase tickets for this exclusive ceremony at Milton House Barn, Milton Ernest
For details of how to book go to the Events page.
For further details see Living Countryside Awards 2009 leaflet (PDF 2.9MB).
Winners will be awarded with a brass plaque, the CPRE Mark and a Certificate at the Awards Ceremony later this year. There will also be secondary awards.
The format follows our successful Design & Countryside Awards 2008.
N W Dunstable Consultation
A public exhibition by Trenport Investments/Cemex has recently been held to outline proposals for a possible development of 650 dwellings on land N W of Dunstable near the historic Iron Age fort of Maiden Bower. This Green Belt land has not been included in the 'Preferred Option' status for potential direction of housing growth. The proposals are therefore in conflict with the emerging development framework for the Luton & South Beds area. CPRE Bedfordshire will oppose any planning application submitted for housing development in this area and is supporting the action group 'Save Dunstable Green Belt' '.
The concept plan can be seen on the North West Dunstable Plan website
Download CPRE's response to the N W Dunstable Consultation July 09 (PDF 12KB).
On Friday 28 August, a crowd of 50 protestors gathered to welcome Russian cyclist Dr Marina Voikhanskaya as she cycled through Dunstable on day 1 of her 430 mile journey to Land's End, all in aid of CPRE.
The crowd here shown is standing at the approach to the proposed development of 650 dwellings on the edge of Maiden Bower.
Behind Becky Richards of Save Dunstable Green Belt are from left Cllr Julian Murray, Cllr Jim Ankelsaria, Cllr Jeanette Freeman, Andrew Selous MP and Geoff Lambert, Chair of CPRE Beds
(Click image to enlarge)
Marina shown here with protestors including Andrew Selous MP for South Beds, Cllr Jeanette Freeman (Manshead Ward and Central Beds), Becky Richards of Save Dunstable Green Belt and Geoff Lambert, Chair of CPRE Bedfordshire.
(Click image to enlarge)
Marina as she starts the final lap of day 1 to Leighton Buzzard, along the disused railway to Sewell.
(Click image to enlarge)
For further details download our press release Veteran cyclist rides to champion our Green Belt again (144KB PDF) and visit Just Giving - Marina Voikhanskaya
Read the report 'Russian to the aid of the Green Belt 
(GIF 259KB) about Marina's ride in the Dunstable Gazette.
See also CPRE's response to the consultation on the Luton & Southern Beds Core Strategy: Preferred Options CPRE Bedfordshire's response (PDF 80KB). More can be read about Local Development Frameworks under Bedfordshire Issues on our website.
Windfarm proposals
At Nunwood near the Three Shires Way
The proposed windfarm would place 12 turbines in three shire counties, within three regional authorities and three local planning departments. This application replaces a previous one for 16 turbines - subsequently withdrawn. However the current layout proposes a greater proportion of turbines in Bedfordshire than in the previous application on land above the settlement of Harrold running up to the Three Shires Way which forms the county boundary between Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire. In terms of landscape quality this area of open farmland is arguably one of the finest in North Bedfordshire.
Read our response to Bedford Borough Council (PDF 108KB)
Between Langford and the A1 Trunk Road
We are beginning to input to the consultations on the proposed windfarm on 20 hectares of high sloping ground between Langford and the A1 Trunk Road to the east of the county. This is for 16 turbines to generate approximately 32 MW. The recent application to MBDC is from Co-operative Estates. A 'before and after' representation is set out below, courtesy of the Co-op application.
Click the image to see a full size view
The maximum height to tip in this case will be 110 metres.
After recent discussions with MBDC Planning Division and with local Councillors, CPRE has determined that the application is unlikely to be presented to the Development Control Committee before June 2009. In the meantime we are working with local residents both to advise them on protocol in such matters, and to make our comments in accordance with CPRE Policy.
Read more about Wind Farm Schemes and Renewable Energy in Bedfordshire Issues
CPRE Bedfordshire QUESTIONS ELECTION CANDIDATES 2009
In April, the branch issued a short questionnaire to all local councillors or election candidates.
‘The people of Bedfordshire value their countryside’ said Geoff Lambert chair of the Bedfordshire branch of CPRE. They want to know what councillors will be doing to protect this valuable asset. We will give every candidate the opportunity to tell their electorate what they will do to protect the countryside for future generations’.
The deadline for replies is now passed. Those received can be read at Questionnaire 2009 - REPLIES . Take a look before the local elections on 4 June. We are delighted to have received 24 replies. The thought put into the range of responses suggests that many of the councillors who will be elected view the care and protection of Bedfordshire's countryside as a priority. We look forward to working with them in the future.
The questionnaire focuses on the following four key issues:
- What will be the single most important thing YOU will do to protect the countryside of Bedfordshire?
- How will you be responding to proposals to create major housing developments around Houghton Regis, East of Leighton Buzzard and around Marston Moretaine?
- What is your position on the development of renewable energy infrastructure in the Bedfordshire’s countryside?
- What is your position on proposals to build roads through protected landscapes and nature reserves in Bedfordshire, such as Houghton Quarry and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty east of Luton?’
Marston Vale
Eco town for Marston Vale withdrawn
On February 6th, 2009, the developer of the proposed eco-town in the Marston Vale announced that they were withdrawing their proposals from the government’s eco town assessment process.
This sudden denouement came towards the end of a consultation process which the government had launched on its Draft Planning Policy Statement “Eco towns: living a greener future”. This draft was accompanied by a large amount of further documentation including Sustainability Appraisals of all the sites under consideration. The Marston Vale Appraisal was severely criticised, on many points, by the Lidlington and Marston Action Groups who were particularly angered that the whole of the Vale was referred to as a designated Growth Area, whereas the key document, the “Milton Keynes and South Midlands Sub Regional Strategy” (MKSM), the driver of the whole expansion plan in our area, referred only to the Northern Vale.
Also refer to the Latest on Waste article on this page.
The action groups and the Bedfordshire Planning Consortium of Parish Councils, supported by CPRE, have mounted a sustained campaign against what we all saw as very flawed proposals for the Vale. A hardly publicised exhibition, arranged by the Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG), was seen a travesty of proper consultation. However, two visits to CLG, organised by the Consortium and in which CPRE participated, ensured that our viewpoint was heard. We were gaining the impression that concerns were growing in high places about the deliverability of this very large “eco town”, when, suddenly, it as gone.
However, O&H the eco town proposers have by no means given up their ambition of filling all the land they own in the Vale with development. They now propose to do it through the Regional Plan and Local Development Framework. They have only given up the attempt to use a new method that, at the outset at least, had seemed to offer a way of circumventing the planning process, although latterly the government had been at pains to stress that this was not the case. O&H say that they remain committed to sustainable mixed use development in the area, and CLG, in commenting on the withdrawal, refer to “a serious shortage of housing in the Bedford area with more than 5500 families on the waiting list for affordable housing and this is an issue that must be resolved.”
CPRE supports policies to provide affordable housing to satisfy proven need and believes all new development should conform to the highest environmental standards, but has always seen over development in the Vale as a threat rather than a solution. We believe our view is supported by a recent study carried out for the East of England Regional Assembly by consultants Arup. The Assembly is under pressure from the Government to accommodate further increases in housing numbers, and asked the Consultants to report on where in the Region a new Regional settlement of some 20,000 dwellings could be sited, should one be deemed to be needed. Arup looked at three sites in Bedfordshire: the Marston Vale, the Eastern corridor (along A1) and the Ampthill, Flitwick, Harlington corridor. The study said that the development of any of these would jeopardise the regeneration of Bedford and the success of the other MKSM growth areas nearby. None were among their preferred sites, as they thought it would be difficult to provide enough jobs and there would be a growth in out-commuting from the county.
We, and the concerned people in the Vale Action groups, all agree wholeheartedly with that conclusion.
Luton Northern Bypass – ‘Options’ Consultation
A public consultation exercise has been conducted into the alignment options for a Luton Northern Bypass, which would follow on from construction of the Northern Bypass for Dunstable. Download the proposals map . As part of this exercise, a ‘Stakeholder’ workshop was held on 31st January 2009 which we attended.
The concept of a Luton Northern Bypass falls into two distinct sections – a link between the future M1 Junction 11a and the A6, and an extension on from the A6 to meet the A505 Hitchin road east of Luton. The latter is particularly controversial as, on either of the potential alignments identified for this section, it will have major adverse environmental impacts on the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the Warden Hill/Galley Hill Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
The general concensus emerging from the Stakeholder Workshop was
the case for any extension of the bypass east of the A6 is far from proven, especially given the very high level of justification that would be required to offset the ‘major adverse’ environmental damage
the case for a bypass between the M1 and A6 should be tested against a more limited road which, while still linking the M1 and A6, would in effect be a (traffic-calmed) residential spine road with multiple access points enabling much better distribution of North Luton local traffic on to the strategic road network than a direct M1-A6 bypass link will do
as an integral element of this process, much more work needed to be done on the contribution improved public transport services and cycle routes could make to the North Luton traffic situation (e.g., Chalton Rail Interchange, Park & Ride, Guided Busway extensions, Bus Priority Lanes, ‘incentivised’ Bus Travel, dedicated Cycle Ways).
These views will be taken into account by the Joint Planning Committee for South Beds & Luton, which will finalise at its March meeting its overall Draft Core Strategy for the Growth Area. This Draft Core Strategy will then go out for a further round of public consultation before becoming a ‘Submission Draft’, which is subjected to independent examination -in public - by an appointed Planning Inspector. The process towards final adoption of the Core Strategy is thus a long one, and is unlikely to be concluded until well into 2010.
Download the full consultation leaflet PDF 732KB.
Download CPRE Bedfordshire’s response (February 09) to the consultation PDF 56KB.
‘Stop the Drop’
Update 30th January 2009
As widely reported, our President, Bill Bryson, has initiated a campaign against the
growing blight of litter and fly-tipping in England’s countryside. Bill describes the
situation thus: “Litter is becoming the default condition of the countryside. It is time
that we – all of us – did something about it. The landscape is too lovely to trash. That
is why CPRE is launching Stop the Drop, to make the countryside what it was almost
everywhere until very recently, and what most of us still want it to be – a place of
cherished beauty and sometimes perfection.”
Despite the Clean Neighbourhoods & Environment Act (2005) giving authorities new powers to clean up litter, in a recent survey of performance not one authority was rated as ‘good’.
An estimated 25 million tons of litter is dropped annually in the UK. And the problem is 5 times worse than it was in the 1960s.
Fly tipping is escalating and local authorities seem too relaxed and ineffectual in applying the Act. “Local authorities, central Government and other public bodies should give a much stronger lead”, says Bill, “We can all put pressure on them to do so.”
Follow this link to download (PDF 15.8MB) our education pack for schools;
How to run a Whole School Litter Campaign
CPRE Bedfordshire PRESENTS ITS 2008 COUNTRYSIDE AND DESIGN AWARDS
The Bedfordshire branch’s first Countryside and Awards scheme held its awards ceremony on Saturday, 6 December, at Howbury Hall, Renhold, BEDFORD, by kind permission of Julian Polhill and Lucy Copeman. The awards were presented by Dr. Paul Leinster CBE, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency. He was welcomed by Neil Sinden, Director of Policy at CPRE National Office . Awards were made in four categories - Landscape, Historic buildings, Vernacular buildings and New buildings.
A presentation illustrating the many good features of all 19 entries was shown to a packed audience. It was prepared by Barry Halton, a new member of our Executive and a professional photographer.
Summerhill Farm Shop, Cardington, Presentation by Dr Paul Leinster CBE (Chief Executive, Environment Agency) to on left (by stairs) : David Adams (Southill Estate Office) and right Andy Jones, Shop Manager. Venue Howbury Hall, Renhold.
Download the full colour handout Countryside and Design Awards 2008 Entries (PDF 1.4 MB)
For comments made by the judges and a full list of entries showing the levels of all awards:
CPRE Mark, Silver and Commended click here (PDF 128KB)
There are 6 winners of the CPRE Mark-Gold equivalent-for 2008.
LANDSCAPE
Walled Garden, Stockwood Discovery Centre, Luton
Within a Luton Borough visitor, this garden has been transformed into a multitude of features and
uses for the community, including specimen planting of native species, simulated global
environments, playgrounds and agricultural museum pieces.
Multiple environments and features, truly something to interest everyone
Castle Close Wildlife and Heritage Site, Sharnbrook
A piece of formerly neglected and almost inaccessible land next to a recently developed housing
estate now managed by local volunteers for the benefit of the village. It includes an ancient
earthwork and ponds as well as mature woodland and open grass areas.
Neglected jungle transformed by volunteers into a community landmark
VERNACULAR BUILDINGS
Cardington Farm Shop
A range of single storey timber barns, retaining original external features, adapted for use as a
farm shop, selling local produce and employing local staff. Very good to see a barn remaining in
commercial use.
Barn remaining in commercial use selling local and regional produce
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Moggerhanger House and Park
The restoration of a Grade 1 listed John Soane small mansion house after years of use as a
hospital required painstaking research and craftsmanship. The historic landscaped gardens by
Humphry Repton have been improved but will be fully restored during the next phase.
Pure conservation, impeccably researched and a big achievement for the community group
Luton Hoo
The renovation of a Grade 1 listed mansion set in a Capability Brown landscape by the Elite
Hotels group for use as a luxury hotel has demanded ingenuity, fine craftsmanship and has
incurred considerable cost.
Thorough restoration of important landmark and former private house to create a luxury hotel. The stonemason's craftsmanship outside is excellent
NEW BUILDINGS
Long Barn Studio, Maulden
A striking new architect's studio designed to provide a creative work environment and
demonstrate new use of materials, without intruding on a landscape which includes existing farm
buildings.
A stimulating innovative working environment which makes a contribution to the landscape and uses sustainable technologies
Before presenting the awards, Dr Leinster, himself a North Bedfordshire resident who finds much to admire in his local landscape, said:
“The environment is an issue that is really growing in people’s minds and it is up to all of us to contribute. Climate change is a big issue. For instance by 2050 the flow rate of the River Great Ouse is forecast to be reduced by 80%!”
Dr Leinster was awarded a CBE in 2008 for public and voluntary service and was appointed Chief Executive in November.
In welcoming Dr Leinster, Neil Sinden drew attention to CPRE’s historic early role in lobbying for the formation of The Environment Agency, the leading public body for protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales.
CPRE Bedfordshire’s Chairman Geoff Lambert said:
"We are absolutely delighted at the response we received to our first major awards scheme, which celebrates the 21st year of CPRE's efforts to preserve and enhance the environment and heritage of this beautiful county. All of the diverse projects we have recognised with awards are characterised by the dedication and expertise of those who have undertaken them and we applaud their efforts. Bedfordshire seems to be perennially under threat from various forms of development and it is good to be able to draw attention to some exemplary work which is helping to preserve the rural nature of the county for future generations".
The panel of judges:
Peter Inskip, a national advisor on the restoration of historic buildings
Nicolas Tye, an award-winning Bedfordshire architect
Robbie Ward-Booth, the historic buildings advisor to Bedfordshire County Council and South Beds District Council
Alison Myers, Landscape Officer from Bedfordshire County Council
Brian Golby, a Mid-Bedfordshire District Councillor and Member of the Chilterns Conservation Board
James Humphreys, the Editor of Bedfordshire County Life Magazine
Barry Halton of CPRE Bedfordshire.
Following the success of its awards scheme, CPRE Bedfordshire hopes to run its next awards in 2010.
Saving Tranquil Places
A new map of England produced by CPRE shows up our most tranquil (in dark green) and least tranquil (in red) rural areas. The aim is to ensure that we retain tranquillity, the countryside's most precious resource. The map is a more comprehensive update of those produced in 1990 and 1960, showing even then how far tranquillity had been lost. The new map shows Bedford in red, on the western edge of the Eastern region , from which spreads a spider’s web of red roads reflecting the highways that cross the county. Few people outside Bedfordshire seem to realise that the the county is 75% rural with a diverse and often very attractive and tranquil countryside. - now let's make sure we don't lose Bedfordshire's most tranquil areas.
People find tranquillity in many different ways but generally in a natural environment, absent from man made disturbances. Its importance for the good of our physical and mental well-being is widely recognised. It underpins the economy of rural areas through rural tourism. But there is no time to lose for areas of complete tranquillity are fast disappearing through the pressure of development across England, more traffic on new roads and airport expansion bringing noise and pollution.
Already CPRE and other organisations have campaigned successfully to retain areas of Green Belt in Bedfordshire, for instance, to ensure that tranquil areas such as Flitwick Moor and Warren Wood (proposed site for a new Center Parcs resort) are not lost. We also hope that more people will come to recognise and enjoy the many other fine areas of tranquillity in Bedfordshire, such as Swineshead Great Wood (in the north), villages and landscapes around Old Warden (in the centre), the open spaces east of Westoning (Sampshill) and near Pulloxhill over to the Sharpenhoe Clappers in the south.
In order to create these revolutionary maps, a range of people across England were consulted about their views on tranquillity. Building on those responses to establish what makes a visitor feel tranquil, the maps were then compiled using computer-based techniques and geographical databases. Each 500 metre square of England’s land mass is given a tranquillity score and colour-coded.
CPRE Bedfordshire wants the local authorities and regional assembly to ensure that tranquillity protection policies are embedded in future planning policies and to ensure these are used by organisations, including parish councils, and individuals to campaign for truly sustainable development in our area.
Read more about the national Tranquillity Campaign
