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1 | P a g e WNP Business Employment and Tourism Evidence paper Nov 2018 JKC/SEB

Wendover Neighbourhood Plan (WNP) Business, Employment and Tourism

Research document

Introduction and purpose

(A) This document has a number of purposes. First it is an attempt to summarise the key

information on the present state of Wendover’s business sector, and employment provision.

Secondly, it refers to and comments on the national, regional, and district wide policies, plans

and objectives affecting Wendover. Thirdly it looks at the issues raised in public consultation

and engagement events held for the WNP in 2017 and to date in 2018, contacts with

stakeholders, and priorities emerging or stated for the Local Area Forum. Fourthly, it looks at

any further evidence gathering needed to support potential policies, and finally, it outlines

potential policies to include in the draft plan. The text of the draft circulated to the SG on 1 8

18 has been updated to 25.9.18 and will form a draft interim BERD v 4 of 25.9.18. It is likely

that further additions and amendments will be made in the light of progress on the VALP, and

other information awaited, from inquiries with ONS and AVDC, which are ongoing. In addition,

some information from the Additional Evidence, filed in the VALP EIP process, has to be

checked for any relevant policies, or material which will be of relevance. All amendments to

this version of the BERD have been typed in red, so enable the changes to be seen readily.

Maps/photographs will be added.

(1) Key Data (including numbers, location, and type)

1.1 Appendix 1 Part A contains a list of the businesses in Wendover Parish with details of

their website addresses, where available. This is based on the current data held by Wendover

Chamber of Trade and Commerce (WCTC), and will be supplemented by information provided

by AVDC. The list is as up to date as possible as at 1st August 2018, but is likely to require some

further work to ensure it is as accurate as possible. At present the list includes data on

businesses with a base in Wendover as well as those who have customers in the area. It

includes some using their home as a base as well as more traditional business organisations

operating from a shop, office, workshop etc. Some entries are national charities or

organisations operating at a national or district level and some outside businesses who seek

business in Wendover or have advertised here. Data is awaited from AVDC on those paying

business rates.

1.2.1 Appendix 1 Part B is being developed and will include an analysis of the businesses

included in Part A by sector eg manufacturing, building, distribution, and types of retail and

services etc.

1.2.2 The work at 1.1 and 1.2.1 will enable the development of a map (similar to a proposals

map) which could be used potentially in the WNP to show the location of Town Centre shops


and services, and industrial, commercial and services units on the edge of the Town or in

countryside locations.

1.3.1 The Town Centre (including the High Street, Aylesbury Road, Pound Street, London Road

and Tring Road is the location for most food and drink outlets, professional services and most

services. A map is being developed to record the Town centre businesses. This will aid the

development of the Plan.

1.3.2 There are industrial and commercial units at the sites shown in the table shown at 1.4.1.

1.4 Wendover’s main business units: location uses, sizes and changes

Apart from the Town Centre the main purpose built business parks or clusters of business

units or premises are located in the table at 1.4.1.

1.4.1

Address and postcode

No of buildings/units/size

No of businesses

Use class/es

Harebridge Lane **

13 13 General industry/warehouse/repairs for motor vehicles and engineering uses

Station Approach 10 10 General commercial uses (car storage and car hire for example) offices and services

Upper Little London Farm

17 6 General industry, repairs, office and warehousing

Hale Road 1 1 Foster Care Associates Hale Court Hale Road Wendover Bucks HP22 6NJ

SMP House 2 2 Office

Wendover Dean, London Road

2 2 Commercial- plant hire operation/repairs and fabrication

Caswell Maintenance Ltd

1 1 Building company

Courtyard development Tring Road. This includes the Tanyard and the courtyard

5 5 Mix of clothing retailer, flower shop, undertakers, service business, and healthcare distributor


development close by

1.4.2 The above shows the main sites where there are multiple occupiers who may share

parking facilities, and are set out as part of a formal or informal business estate

Note 1 ** In Aston Clinton Parish but included as it is referred to in Wendover Factpack 2011.

Note 2 Use classes and type/s of business subject to verification from inspection and further

research through AVDC planning website or from inquires with them.

Note 3 At present this is based on 2011 data, updated by visual inspection, and analysis of

planning, and other publically available material.

1.4.3 Since 2011 there have been a number of gains and losses, and changes of use of

employment land. The table shows some of these.

Year Location Gain/loss

October 2016 2 London Road Change of use of business premises (originally a café) from clothing shop to hairdressers

2018 (following application made 2017)

London Road Service station Loss of garage facility. Planning permission for residential homes now granted following revised access arrangements and redesign of development – reference number 17/04730/APP. Not known when building will start as a number of conditions have to be satisfied first

2017 Lloyds Bank PLC bank branch High Street Wendover

Loss of branch Empty for last year and has recently been refurbished, Current application for planning permission for conversion from use for professional and financial services (A2) into 2 retail units (A1) on ground floor and residential use (C3) on first floor. References 18/02950/ALB and 18/02949/APP. Decision awaited. WPC did not object


2018 Triangle business park, Stoke Mandeville

Business premises previously used by Grass Roots PLC and currently vacant. Application for decision on whether current use could be changed from B2 office to C3 residential through variation of use class designation. Proposed change from business to residential use approved 14.8.18 subject to conditions on noise (reference 18/02196/COUOR)

2018 Hideaway Farm, Aylesbury Road, Wendover

Application reference 18/02437/ACL. Existing illegal use (ie without planning permission) of land at former farm for storage in previously used farm buildings. Application for lawful development certificate (ldc). Awaits decision by AVDC.

2018 Little London Farm, Dunsmore

Application for lawful use certificate (ldc) for premises used for warehousing and other business uses. Decision awaited. Number not available.

2018 Former pub premises adjacent to travellers site opposite Wyevale

Needs to be checked as to whether residential use proposed for pub/antique shop

2018 Former nursing home to rear of pub premises mentioned above

Unused for some time. Need to establish plans for future use

Note: The information at 1.4.3 is being researched and/or information is awaited from AVDC.

1.4.4 All the above applications, save the last 2, are on land on which planning applications

for conversion from business use to residential use could be made. The LDC application

converts and illegal use to a legal one and then enables a residential application to be made.

The last 2 are in prominent places on the edge of the bypass and need to be considered.


1.4.5 There are other shops and service providers situated throughout the Parish. There is a

convenience store at Princess Mary Gate.

1.5 Description of the Business sector

1.5.1. Local businesses are diverse and the broad categories include farming, manufacturing,

repairs and maintenance(mainly in the motor trades or building services sector), house

building or house conversions, distribution, retail, professional and general services (the

latter of a huge variety of kinds including beauty and hairdressing, pet care and health and

welfare services) food and drink, and leisure. The majority of businesses in terms of type and

numbers employed are in the service sector. There is a weekly market each Thursday

comprising the following trades:

Greengrocer, pet and garden supplies, clothing, bread and baked products, olives, household

items, cheese, and fish.

1.5.1.1 A monthly market provides local farms to provide a variety of meat products, baked

goods, cheese, plants, clothing, refurbished wood items and a variety of other goods.

1.5.1.2 An annual food and craft fair is held in the summer for local suppliers from a 25 mile

radius. In December a winter market is held with a seasonal theme. These events are

organised by the proprietors of No 2 Pound Street, and a wide variety of food and craft

businesses participate, as well as attracting other stallholders appropriate to the time of year.

1.5.1.3 All markets are held on the Manor Waste.

1.5.2 There are also a variety of business models (company/sole trader/llp/cic). The

community interest company (CIC) designation is chosen by some charity and third sector

organisations, and affects their business aims and ethos.

1.5.3 A factor in local business is the number of those who carry on their business from home.

To some extent these are hidden and will only be shown on data lists (such as those for the

Wendover by WCTC).

1.5.4 In the Questionnaire survey a question was include asking those who ran their own

businesses whether they traded from home, from premises in Wendover, or premises

elsewhere. 108 of the people completing the Questionnaire responded and of these

responders, 66 % (or 72 individuals) replied that they worked from home. This group of

homeworking business owners is often lost sight of and the proportion is likely to reflect the

demographic slant towards older workers in the survey. The business survey which forms

part of the CES2 feedback reports has and will not obtain responses from such businesses. By

way of comparison, from the Questionnaire survey report, and of the same sample of 108


responders: 21% said they traded from business premises in Wendover; 29% from business

premises outside Wendover.

1.6 Changes in business operation/Land use

1.6.1. The previous Wendover Parish Fact pack (2011) contained data from AVDC about

changes in land use and use classes of the businesses in the Parish and included details of

specific sites and trends in uses. AVDC have told me that they are not updating this document.

At present the information in the tables above is based on the 2011 data census data.

However as a result of other research I have hopes of being able to update the data as far as

possible on business and employment.

1.6.2 The general trends since 2011 are for service uses to replace more general uses. Some

land has been converted from a general business use (such as B2) to residential; the former

builders’ yard off next to Istanbul has become a site for 2 houses. This mirrors an earlier

conversion at Woods Place off the Aylesbury Road. The recent conversion at 20 High Street

reflects a general trend (referred to in AVRS 2015 2.5 bullet point 8). Some changes of use

have occurred to include arts, crafts, floristry, and health focused businesses in Town Centre

locations (for example at Flora Faber Designs (13 High Street) replacing an antiques shop and

the expansion of the premises at the rear (Robert Mews) to include artists, crafts, and health

based businesses.

1.6.3 In the services sector there has been an expansion in business areas such as

hairdressing, healthcare, fitness and personal training, restaurants, shops linked to particular

charities, and life event service providers (such as for weddings, birthdays, and special

occasions).

1.6.4 Wendover is home to a number of businesses or third sector organisations offering care

services or healthcare services supplies and services to the public sector. These include

several fitness businesses trading from home and using public open spaces (such as Ashbrook

and Hampden Meadow) for their fitness sessions, and one at Robert Mews. A healthcare

goods supplier is based at premises to the rear of The Tanyard.

1.7 RAF Halton and Halton Parish

1.7.1 Although not within the Parish the base provides significant employment in the area

and those serving or working there contribute to the local economy by using the

shops/services/pubs and restaurants and facilities here. There are believed to be currently

395 civilian jobs dependant on the base. A total of 1849 military personnel and civilians are

stationed at the base. (based on evidence given by the DIO to the VALP EIP –see Peter Brett

report sections 2.4.5 and 2.4.7)


1.7.2 The village of Halton has a number of sports facilities which act as employers (such as

the Tennis Club and a cyclist repair and supply shop). The Tennis club houses a gymnasium,

Physiotherapist and specialist exercises such as TaiChi and Pilates. There is also an

industrial/commercial business park at Harebridge Road between Halton and Aston Clinton,

included in the Table above with a variety of B1c and B2 uses. Such business and service

companies provide employment for those in the Parish (note that the precise information on

this site needs to be checked)

1.8 Wendover as a district shopping /services sector

1.8.1 As explained later, Wendover is considered a strategic settlement within the District,

given its shops facilities and transport links. As such and because of its pull it serves as a centre

for the villages and hamlets in the area such as Stoke Mandeville and Butlers Cross.

1.8.2 Evidence arising during the course of developing this Plan confirms that many visitors to

the Town (for market day for example) live in one of the nearby villages.

1.8.3 This needs to be considered in examining the development of the centre to reflect its

position as a strategic settlement. It will be the case that the strategic centres will take the

greater share of new housing than other settlements such as Weston Turville or Waddesdon.

However as the Housing Topic paper produced by AVDC for the VALP EIP reflected the criteria

for the designation of Wendover as a strategic settlement do not fully recognise the

constraints of Green Belt and AONB designation on Wendover.

1.8.4 One of the issues raised at the VALP EIP concerns the definition of the Town Centre in

various settlements. There are detailed provisions about this for Aylesbury. Buckingham’s

Neighbourhood Plan deals with this also. The WNP needs to look at this issue for Wendover

(perhaps linked to the provisions that could be included in the WNP for the primary or

secondary shopping frontages).

1.9 Development of the shopping and services sector

1.9.1 A good deal of comment was made by responders in CES 1, CES 2, and in the

Questionnaire results report about improvements that could be made to the shopping and

services provided for residents (see section 5.3 and Appendix 3).

1.9.2 Wendover has a role as a tourist centre and many people use this as a base for exploring

the area with many walkers and cyclists pursuing leisure pursuits, and taking holidays locally.

The public responded with a host of suggestions on how Wendover could meet the tourist

challenge (ibid).

1.10 Local business, services and retail operations on the edge of the settlement area to the

rural south or outside the Parish.


The Parish extends to some 6 miles north to south and a number of employers are located at

the edge of the settlement, or adjacent to the boundary such as the Wyevale complex and

Lindengate (both in Weston Turville Parish) who will employ local people as well as the

businesses to the north of the bypass on Nash Lee Road. Such a business as Worlds End

Garden Centre known as Wyevale, will be used by residents from Wendover and from a wide

area.

7 farms either surround the settlement footprint or operate to the rural south of the Parish

adjacent to the A413, and the line of the HS2 railway line. Some of these straddle the local

Parish boundaries.

1.11 Use of shopping and services outside the Parish

Although Wendover is a strategic settlement, its viability is partly affected by those residents

using Aylesbury, and other centres for their convenience, and comparison shopping

requirements (see generally the AVRS 2015)

1.12 Community profile data for employment and business

1.12.1 The current employment profile of the population based on 2011 census data is set

out in the table. The numbers are based on the figure of 2047 counted as the number of

economically active people within the Parish. The table below shows the numbers engaged

in employment/self-employment of different types.

Type of employment Numbers of residents Full time ee 2026

Part-time ee 739

Self -employed 651

Unemployed FT Students

120 115

Total economically active 3651

Note: ee refers to employees, FT to full time. Economically inactive people due to caring role,

disability or other reasons are not included. Nor are pensioners.

1.12.2 The original paragraph included a draft table for types of employment. The data for

this is still being clarified with ONS.

1.12.3 Data on where people, who live in Wendover, travel to work, is not available currently

for the Parish. District data from the 2011 census shows that of those living in the district

53.2% work in Aylesbury Vale, 6.9% in the rest of Bucks, 7.4% in Oxfordshire, and 5.9% in

London.

1.12.3 Trends since 2011


It is likely that a greater percentage of people are now self-employed, or on part time or

temporary contracts.

2) National policies – an overview (as at 28th July 2018)

In working on the WNP I feel we should keep in mind the overall framework of planning law

and regulation to which the process is subject, hence this section. (NB Please note that the

NPPF were amended with effect from the 29th July 2018 and these have yet to be read and

considered). Adjustments will be made to the final version of this report

2.1 All local planning is governed by the NPPF. This regulates the Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan

(VALP) which is the local plan in preparation and being examined.

2.2 From a national perspective, the production of neighbourhood plans is subject to the

NPPF. The aim is for the WNP to contribute to sustainable development. The planning process

at all levels must positively promote development. How this is applied in an area of constraint

is a matter for discussion and the exercise of judgment (though see the reference in paragraph

10 below)

2.3Generally the NPPF confirms that the purpose of planning is to help achieve sustainable

development and identifies in paragraph 7 the three dimensions to sustainable development

namely:

An economic role A social role An environmental role

2.4 These roles should not be taken in isolation because they are mutually dependent and

they should be sought jointly and simultaneously through the planning system.

2.5 The NPPF in paragraph 10 requires that plans and decisions need to take local

circumstances into account, so that they respond to the different opportunities for achieving

sustainable development in different areas.

2.6 Paragraph 10 means that for plan-making this means that:

(i) local planning authorities should positively seek opportunities to meet the development

needs of their area and

(ii) Paragraph 16 reflects that the application of presumption will have implications for how

communities engage in neighbourhood planning. Critically it will mean that neighbourhoods

should:

develop plans that support the strategic development needs set out in Local Plans including policies for housing and economic development


plan positively to support local development, shaping and directing development in their area that is outside the strategic elements of the Local Plan

identify opportunities to use Neighbourhood Development Orders to enable

developments that are consistent with their neighbourhood

2.7 Paragraphs 183 to 185 of the NPPF identify the role of Neighbourhood Plans (now referred

to as Neighbourhood Development Plans).

(i) Paragraph 183 states “Neighbourhood planning gives communities direct power to develop

a shared vision for their neighbourhood and deliver the sustainable development they need.”

(ii)The definition of sustainable development has already been identified above and is

expressed as a three dimensional role of economic, social and environmental influences.

(iii) The Parish can set planning policies through the Neighbourhood Development Plan for

the making of decisions on planning applications.

(iv) Paragraph 184 identifies that Neighbourhood Development Plans must be in general

conformity with the strategic policies of the Local Plan.

2.8 Despite the comments at 2.7, it is clear that the Neighbourhood Plan can achieve a lot at

the local level.

2.9 As well as national policies there are regional policies that affect the development of

business and employment such as those contained in the vision aims and policies of the

Thames Valley LEP/local authorities, and the impact of transport projects such as the East-

West rail proposal and the East – West Expressway. These matters will affect decisions such

as investment locally, the siting of employment provision and job opportunities, travel

choices, and where people chose to live, which will all impact the local economy.

3) Current Local Plan policies

3.1 The current approved local plan is the Aylesbury and District Local Plan approved in 2004.

Polices in this Plan apply until the VALP is approved. There are a number of policies relevant

to employment and business. The detailed list of these policies is set out in Appendix 2A.

3.2 I comment generally on these. There are no policies which appear to cause any difficulties

to the development in Wendover that is required or desirable either to meet housing or

employment needs or to preserve the environment.

3.3 Indeed the aim of the Policies is to protect existing employment uses, whilst safeguarding

existing and future amenity (for example GP8) and give guidance on particular types of

development application (for example GP77 and GP78).

3.4 The parking guidelines have been referred to in the recent VALP EIP.


4) The proposed new development plan VALP.

4.1 The current position is that the VALP is currently being examined by an Inspector from

DHCLG – the public hearings having concluded on 20th July.

4.2 It is clear that the proposed submitted draft will be subject to a number of major

modifications which will be put forward by AVDC and the Inspector. Some of these may

impact on what follows (such as the development of the RAF Halton site). However, the

general strategy for the economy, and retail provision is set out and will provide strategic

guidance for the WNP. Appendix 2B will include all policies relating to Wendover in relation

to the strategic aims, employment, retail provision, and the policies on Town Centres.

4.3 As the plan stood at the time of submission, there are a number of specific policies relating

to Wendover, or which may affect residents. One of these was the decision to treat Wendover

as a strategic settlement. This was based on its transport links, and shopping and services

provision. This does not just affect housing allocation but means that Wendover could use

this status to look at proper steps and investment to support and retain the general industrial,

commercial, farming, services and retail economy. I have extracted sections of the VALP

which are of most relevance to this Topic and these are at Appendix 2B. References in this

text are to paragraph numbers of the VALP (eg 6.4) or Policies (E1 etc)

The policies and aims of the VALP

4.4 An overall aim is to promote sustainable economic growth (6.4) and there is stress on the

value of keeping employment land uses in place and ensuring jobs are close to where people

live. Converting employment land to housing is seen a providing a short term economic

benefit only, and by implication not in the long term interests of communities.

4.5

Policy E1 – Key employment sites

A number of sites identified and listed in the VALP are identified as key employment sites.

Each site contributes to the employment land supply for B class uses, and also by their

provision of employment to the area’s economy. The aim of Policy E1 is to preserve these

sites for B1 (light industrial) B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution). No uses

will be permitted that do not contribute to providing on-going employment opportunities for

the local economy. No Town Centre uses will be permitted whilst any ancillary uses will only

be permitted if they provide services to those working on the site, and do not affect the

viability of the nearby Town shopping centre.

3 of the sites namely Triangle Business Park, Arla /Woodlands, and Halton Brook Business

Park are close to the boundary and are likely to provide employment or employment

opportunities for residents. In respect of Triangle business park see the earlier developments

for part of the site.


4.6 Other employment sites are given a Policy of their own at E2 which states that alternative

uses will be permitted on such sites if other nearby employment land is not affected, the site

has been marketed for 2 years and no viable interest expressed, and there is an oversupply

of suitable employment land in the area.

This Policy may affect any B2 or other general industrial, commercial employment site (such

as the business premises opposite the Firecrest on the A413) were any changes in use to be

proposed. This is an existing site but the WNP could look to support the site or develop its

own policies on any employment site if they were

4.7 E5- development outside Town Centres.

4.7.1 This policy has an impact on Wendover. It seeks to keep retail provision within a Town

Centre (as defined). This policy seeks to prevent out of Town retail where it should be

accommodated in the Centre and/or would impact on the Centre’s viability.

4.8 E6 Primary Shopping Frontages

4.8.1 Wendover’s Town Centre is regarded as important and although the frontage of the

centre is not defined, E6 could be used to develop a primary shopping frontages policy in line

with the VALP policy which supports the aims of keeping the existing mix of shops, services,

food and drink outlets, and similar appropriate retail or service premises in as defined centre.

The AVRS suggests only a very minor demand for additional retail space (29 square metres).

There are no policies to develop Wendover’s shopping and services and no analysis of the use

of Wendover as a shopping centre.

4.8.2 Wendover could develop such policies to both define a primary and/or secondary

frontage to regulate uses/retain retail as far as it could to preserve its historic centre, heritage,

and amenity for residents, and visitors. Please refer to the Map on page 11 for possible Town

Centre area, on which a primary frontage could be stablished.

4.9 E7 and E8 tourism development

4.9.1 There are detailed policies in the VALP regarding the development of tourism. This can

clearly expand on existing work opportunities and also encourage entrepreneurship. More

locally the AONB and the Chilterns are seen as major tourist destinations. There is a clear

opportunity to develop tourist accommodation in Town Centres, or within the built up area.

Indeed outside the centre an appropriate site could be developed, with appropriate

safeguards. Tourist facilities at farms might be developed for example provided the

appropriate infrastructure was in place and amenities and countryside preserved.

4.10 RAF Halton redevelopment

4.10.1 This is dealt with in 4.131 to 4.137 and allocation HAL003 (D-HAL003 RAF Halton).

4.10.2 Although there has been discussion of the need to provide employment opportunities

linked to the technical expertise developed on site and around the preservation and


management of the built and green environment the VALP itself contains no reference to this

as drafted. The issue of jobs was raised at the VALP EIP and my understanding is that AVDC

may propose modifications to the VALP to enable this to be addressed as a priority. The

Inspector appeared sympathetic to the representations. Appendix 4 has a list of our

suggestions as a group to the RAFHSG. The results from the questionnaire are found below.

Map credit Google Maps

4.11 Conclusion

The policies primarily affecting the Business and Employment topic have been identified but

others such as climate change targets/building design will also have an impact.


Issues

5.1 I have set out in this section the main issues raised thus far by the public. This has been

done under broad subject headings. I have summarised each individual issue under subjects

in Appendix 4, and included reference to the source of the comment, further evidence

needed, references to the VALP and ideas for potential Policies for the WNP.

5.2 At this stage of the draft interim BERD this section and Appendix 3 contains most of the

issues identified in the 2 phases of the Consultation and Engagement Strategy (CES). CES1

refers to matters arising at the launch events. CES 2 relates to matters from March 2017 to

July 2018. The CES 2 matters are being collated and a summary will appear shortly. However,

most, if not all, have now been captured in the BERD. It also includes comments relevant to

the business and employment subject from the Questionnaire results survey (QSR). The

following subjects were raised, shown in ordinary type with comments by me in italics.

5.3 Retail

5.3.1 Retail provision and the lack of variety of shops - Wendover is affected by national

trends and the decline of traditional providers, as well as the impact of online provision. Some

start up subsidies or generous lease arrangements can be explored. Wendover has to learn

from other places sand promote a USP. There were also comments on new retail outlets being

needed in the QSR but without specifying particular ones. I have assumed that responders

were looking at greater variety and choice.

5.3.2 Flower shops/hairdressers/charity shops: public comment is there are too many

Market forces may affect this but ultimately you can only look at who is coming forward.

Ludlow has for example embraced its charity shops by organising a heritage trail incorporating

all their shops to promote trade. Further work on the retail mix will involve discussions with a

number of stakeholders, and changes in public attitudes.

5.3.3 More useful shops such as a local butchers: local specialist butchers has moved to out

of town location at Kings Farm shop- may not be possible to get such a use back given retail

trends. Budgens has developed a fresh meat offer using local suppliers and meat products

from Kings Farm Shop ( which is a major food store on the edge of the bypass which does

provide some additional butchery provision at a higher cost.

5.4 Help for business:

5.4.1 a business hub is requested where people can meet and network and/or use facilities:

this is not a new idea but a location is needed (perhaps at Halton long term as the Library is

unlikely to be suitable, or the old Bank might at least be explored). Any premises would need

funding and the will to do something. There are mixed views on the practicalities of this.


5.4.2 Costs issues: high rent and rates discourage business - discussion with business and the

public about subsidy/relief from some initial costs or discussion over the lease terms with

landlords. Recently I have spoken to a retailer who moved to a neighbouring village because

the costs of renting in Wendover were too high.

5.4.3 Promotion of business and developing USP for the Town: explore links with Colleges and

marketing experts to get ideas going.

5.5 New business

5.5.1 Support for a range of new businesses and service provision

5.5.1.2 In the QSR responders were asked what new businesses they wanted to encourage.

The sample size for each response to the question averaged 800. A wider range of replies

were given with the following all scoring 50% plus: retail, banks and financial services, service

trades (such as plumbers/electricians), additional health provision (opticians/dentists),

education services, nurseries, pubs, cafes , and restaurants, agricultural and food production,

leisure opportunities, tourism, office based businesses, and online /web-based services, and

small scale workshops.

5.5.1.3 These answers in 5.5.1.2 can be interpreted as people wanting to retain a wide and

diverse range of local shops services and leisure opportunities to keep a thriving Town and

commercial centre. This reflects the weighted demographic towards older members of the

community rather than those under 65 say who go to other shopping centres and/or shop

online. The QSR findings accord, however, with Policy D6 of the VALP and comments at 4.181.

5.5.1.4 How this is achieved will depend on the attractiveness of the Town as a business centre

and the nature of new enterprise coming forward.

5.5.2 Support for Home – based business

5.5.2.1 In the QSR there was strong support (73%) for encouragement to be given to new

home based businesses. Please note that VALP Policy E4 (in Appendix 4) covers homeworking.

5.6 Provision of Industrial /commercial units for new commercial operations:

5.6.1 New small scale industrial or commercial workshops were supported by 55% of those

responding.


5.7 Encourage Green tech start- ups and other small businesses

5.7.1 As with any new business, the WPC and WNP seeks to encourage these activities as far

as possible.

5.8 RAF Halton: the redevelopment of the brownfield site is a chance to retain and develop

new jobs locally.

5.8.1 This has been raised at the RAFHSG meetings and by the MP. These have been included

in the summary of issues put to the RAFHSG. It would also allow potentially other issues above

to be addressed.

5.9 Loss of Lloyds Bank – this causes hardship for older people and business users.

5.9.1 Recent evidence to the Scottish parliament indicated the potential loss of revenue to a

village/town in places where the last bank had closed. Take 2 towns 5-10 miles away.

Essentially people will shop/use services at the town where banking services are retained, and

trade will be lost at the town which has lost its last bank branch. Here the regular markets

may be affected by this as well as charities and small organisations. Wendover’s potential

population with Halton of 11,000- 13,000 may encourage a bank to open again.

5.10 Developing tourism

5.10.1 As discussed at 4.9 there are specific policies relating to tourism in the VALP and these

are reproduced at Appendix 2B.

5.10.1 Many comments have been made about the historical setting. One organisation said

Wendover’s history is its draw for residents and business.

5.10.2 Overall in the QSR, 71% favoured encouraging tourism.

5.10.3 Furthermore in the QSR there were repeated comments about the need to promote

the Town as a walking centre, market it on that basis, and provide information on its history

and green heritage, in printed and downloadable formats. Local events (such as concerts),

and walks could be promoted at the railway station, historical tours arranged, and lectures

arranged.

5.10.4 The need to reinstate the tourist office and suitable information materials was

repeated from the earlier feedback.

5.10.5 Of the specific questions asking what people would do to promote tourism 96% wanted

promotion of the local countryside, 92% wanted enhancement of the local green spaces 93%

wanted a Wendover walk and guide leaflet, and 89% wanted more historical information

about Wendover. More detail is contained within the QSR at section 5. WPC have developed

free printed leaflets about walks around Wendover available from the Library, as part of its

business plan and new information boards have been installed in November 2018.


5.10. Ideas for expanding and coordinating information on what is available through an

effective information centre and some information at the railway station (leaflets/visuals). A

suggestion is made at 6 for further work on this aspect.

5.11 Lack of proper Transport infrastructure Parking problems, congestion, and lack of

public transport affects business and there has been specific comment when undertaking the

Business survey as part of CES2.

5.11.1 The Big Idea for Parking produced by COTC (new site on London Road and re-siting the

skateboard park) has support from the business community. The Witchell car park is being

extended in the 2019-2020 period, to help.

5.11.2 Specific comment has been made by individual businesses regarding the loss of custom

because of the lack of parking centrally.

5.11.3 The limited local bus service was raised by WNPSGat the VALP EIP. Evenings and

weekends are not well covered by local bus services. A community bus provision serving

Wendover could be looked at. This would help trade.

5.11.2 Information in the VALP documents and given at the VALP EIP indicated there were no

proposals for any improvements to highways infrastructure for Wendover. This will mean that

congestion, which 81% of the respondents in the QSR identified as a barrier to business, will

not be relieved.

5.12 Relationship with Community facilities and leisure

It is quite clear from work on the Community Facilities and Leisure topic that many people

see the range of pubs hotels and restaurants as community assets and part of the overall offer

to residents which makes people want to live and visit here. I have simply approached all the

facilities as a resource for running a local economy for the benefit of businesses themselves

and those who work there and looked to develop ideas and policies to support the local

economy.

Overview, and further evidence gathering and research.

6.1 A number of ideas have been given by the public as to the future of business, employment,

and retail and services provision. Some of these relate to Halton and have been put forward

in the summary of issues report prepared by me, and raised at the RAFHSG. However the

WNP needs to consider how practicable ideas can be developed as the Halton Masterplan is

developed.

6.2 Wendover is described as a strategic settlement in the VALP. Housing development is

being directed to Halton given the environmental constraints imposed by the AONB and

Green belt surrounding the settlement. This policy in the VALP will affect the future of

business and employment .


6.3 Policy D6 provides that AVDC will promote the sustainable growth and regeneration of .…

Wendover… Within defined Town Centres development proposal for retail, leisure,

commercial, office, tourism, cultural, community, and residential will be supported where

they:

Retain or enhance the Town Centre’s historic character and appearance, vitality and

viability

Sustain or enhance diverse town centre uses and customer choice, incorporating

residential accommodation above ground floor where possible, and

Are readily accessible by public transport, walking and cycling

6.4 Most of these issues have been brought together on this Topic in section 5 and by

highlighting specific ones with possible Policies in Appendix 3.

6.4 Given Policy D6, the position of Wendover as a strategic settlement, the re-development

of Halton, the following issues are of importance:

how to improve the retail offer

how to improve tourist information provision

improving the services for tourists and visitors

improving facilities (such as information)

improving parking

improving public conveniences

the steps needed to build up heritage and tourist centre resources

the impact of the closure of RAF Halton and opportunities arising from this

the impact of HS2 and ways to mitigate this

the options for the use of redundant buildings, and sites for tourist development

Glossary

VALP Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan (submission version),

EIP : Examination in Public of the VALP

WPC Wendover Parish Council; AVRS 2015 Aylesbury Vale Retail Study; DIO Defence

infrastructure organisation; Thames Valley LEP Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership;

DHCLG department of housing communities and local government; RAFHSG RAF Halton

Stakeholder Group

Results from the Questionnaire


Business Development

71% of respondents stated that they ‘would like to see more Tourists and Visitors

attracted to Wendover’.

Over 70% of respondents felt that ‘Retail’ (76%), ‘Homeworking’ (73%), ‘Service

Trades e.g. plumbers, electricians (73%) and ‘Bank/Financial Services’ (73%) should

be ‘encouraged within Wendover’.

‘Lower business rates/rents’ were cited as methods to encourage ‘new business to

Wendover’.

90% of respondents either ‘Strongly Agreed/Agreed’ that ‘Broadband access to the

internet for your home (fibre optic) was ‘important in terms of connectivity’. 86%

either ‘Strongly Agreed/Agreed’ with ‘Faster Broadband Speed’.

Section 4: Business

4.1 Do you currently own your own Business/ Businesses? % Yes 13

No 87

N= 832

13% of respondents ‘owned their own Business/Businesses’.

4.2 From where do you operate your own Business/ Businesses? (Please choose all that apply)

%

Home 66 Other premises in the Parish 21

Other premises outside the Parish 29

N=

66% of respondents stated that they operated their ‘own Business/Businesses’ from

‘Home’.


Over 70% of respondents felt that ‘Retail’ (76%), ‘Homeworking’ (73%), ‘Service Trades e.g.

Plumbers, Electricians’ (73%) and ‘Bank/Financial Services’ (73%) ‘should be encouraged

within Wendover’.

4.3 What sort of Business Development do you think should be encouraged within Wendover (Please tick one option per row) Strongly

Agree %

Agree %

No Opinion

%

Disagree %

Strongly Disagree

%

N=

Homeworking 29 44 25 1 1 803

Tourism 15 48 26 9 2 807

Leisure 15 53 26 5 1 805 Office Based Businesses

7 45 34 12 3 796

Retail 20 56 17 6 1 799

Small Scale Industry/ Workshops

12 43 29 12 4 806

Agricultural/ Food Production

15 47 26 10 3 806

Service Trades e.g. Plumbers, Electricians

19 54 22 4 2 809

Pubs/ Cafes/ Restaurants

21 44 19 14 2 810

Banks/ Financial Services

35 38 19 6 1 818

Education Services 25 43 27 3 2 808

Nursery 19 44 29 5 2 808

Online/ Web Based 15 41 39 3 2 792

Creative Industries 16 45 35 3 1 805

Veterinary Services 12 37 38 10 3 799

Additional Health (Dentist/ Optician etc)

28 39 24 8 2 805

Other 32 10 54 2 2 101


4.4 Are any of the following barriers to Business Development within Wendover? (Please tick one option per row) Strongly

Agree %

Agree %

No Opinion

%

Disagree %

Strongly Disagree

%

N=

Traffic Flow (congestion)

36 33 15 15 1 802

Parking 47 34 11 8 1 808

Transport Links 12 24 21 38 4 782

Suitable Business Premises

12 37 42 8 1 798

Access to adequate broadband

14 21 40 22 3 792

Access to adequate mobile network

14 21 42 20 3 791

Lack of a local hub for business to meet and exchange ideas

5 20 56 15 3 792

Business rates 12 19 64 3 2 799

High rent of office/ premises

14 23 58 3 2 797

Other 12 5 81 0 1 81

Concerning ‘barriers to Business Development within Wendover’ 81% of respondents

either ‘Strongly Agreed/Agreed’ with ‘Parking’ and 69% with ‘Traffic Flow (congestion).

4.5 Are there any sites which could be used for new commercial or light industry in

Wendover?

22% of the comments cited ‘RAF Halton’ as a potential site for ‘new commercial or light

industry in Wendover’

4.6 What would you do to encourage new businesses to Wendover?

The key theme to emerge in terms of ‘new business encouraged in Wendover’ was ‘lower

business rates/rents’. Comments included;

Business rates and rent far too high, we have too many charity shops as they get cheaper rates .

Rates need to be lower Small units for artisans, trades and hi tec, with simple rental agreements and

attractive rents . Rents to be controlled by the Parish Council to keep local control of the rental incentive.

Reduce rents if possible for say 2 years until the business is established. Give rate and rent reduction


Reduce the rents of properties. The only businesses we have lost ie bookshop are due to disproportional rent increases.

Lower the rents on high st premises, to encourage new businesses Good parking is essential, reasonable and fair business rates and rent possibly based

on turnover rather than a flat out rate Reduce business rates to the buildings that are currently empty and introduce an

incentive scheme for business owners Offer low business rates for uptake at triangle business park for start ups Cut business rates for new businesses (less than 5 yrs old) Make rates reasonable, attract local businesses and start-ups rather than chain

stores. Lower rental and rates for premises suitable for businesses make sure the business rates are affordable especially for new businesses

‘Improvements to parking’ were also cited as a scheme to encourage ‘new business to

Wendover’, comments included;

provide appropriate parking for customers. Improve parking in the town centre much better parking availability Extra parking on high st area. Improved parking facilities more parking (free) More parking for offices/businesses. Improve parking Make parking easier. Increase parking Increase car parks . Improve parking for employees and customers

Section 5: Tourism

5.1 Would you like to see more Tourists and Visitors attracted to Wendover?

%

Yes 71

No 29

N= 783

71% of respondents stated that they ‘would like to see more Tourists and Visitors attracted

to Wendover’.


5.2 How would you like to see more Tourists and Visitors attract ted to Wendover? (Please tick one option per row)

Strongly Agree

%

Agree %

No Opinion

%

Disagree %

Strongly Disagree

%

N=

More events/ entertainment

15 47 28 8 1 555

More B and B accommodation

14 54 28 3 1 561

More Hotel or Inn accommodation

10 45 34 10 1 555

Better marketing of Wendover

25 54 18 2 0 561

Promotion of local countryside, footpaths and historic features

40 56 3 1 0 571

Enhancement of the open spaces in the whole Parish

44 48 6 2 0 567

Interpretation Boards to guide visitors regarding the history and countryside on offer

28 52 17 3 0 564

Tourist information kiosk or visitor centre

31 48 16 4 0 564

Larger car park 38 35 14 10 2 568

New car park 22 23 39 11 5 512

Provide historical information about Wendover

29 60 10 1 0 564

More information/ displays at Railway Station

28 56 14 1 0 563

Wendover guide and walk leaflet

39 54 6 1 0 564

Other 35 20 44 2 0 55

From those respondents who indicated that they ‘would like to see more Tourists and

Visitors attracted to Wendover’, 96% stated that this should be through ‘Promotion of local

countryside, footpaths and historic features’, 93% by a ‘Wendover guide and walk leaflet’,


92% by ‘Enhancement of the open spaces in the whole Parish’ and 89% by ‘providing

Historical information about Wendover’.

5.3 What actions would you take to attract more tourists and visitors to Wendover?

The promotion of ‘walks/walking’ was a key theme to emerge when respondents were

asked ‘what actions would attract more tourists and visitors to Wendover’. Comments

included;

Downloadable "Wendover walks " publicised on website and available as printed leaflets through tourist centre.

Increased marketing of Wendover for it's village attraction and walking centre within the Chilterns landscape

promote walking e.g access to ridgeway and wendover woods Better marketing of location, walks (of all grades/styles), sign posts and info boards Make more of Ridgeway trail and Coombe Hill walks. Promote the historical features and produce a self-guided walk. Re instate tourist office, promote walking options Promotion of walking routes Market the walks and countryside. Walking routes and appropriate leflets Historical tours. Countryside tours and lectures. Nature walks. Social media campaign. Local hotel providing info on Wendover eg. town with lovely

views/ walks and people Create walking routes so Wendover is a stop over place Leaflets about concerts, music, roads, walks in Wendover at Marylebone Station and

Aylesbury Station

‘Improving Parking’ was cited by a number of respondents, comments included;

Has to be the parking but little room in central Wendover to accommodate the space required. Perhaps secure cheaper parking or promote parking at the station at weekends when not used by commuters.

Easier Parking Provide car parking to allow people to walk into the village. Provide more parking space. Get the parking in order Make parking easier. Hotels/B&Bs must provide adequate parking for their guests. provide parking More free parking Improve parking facilities Improve parking in village


5.4 If you would not like to see more Tourists and Visitors being attracted to Wendover please tell us why? (Please tick one option per row)

Strongly Agree

%

Agree %

No Opinion

%

Disagree %

Strongly Disagree

%

N=

Traffic issues 44 32 15 6 3 433 Car parking issues 48 33 12 4 2 436

Crowding of the village

33 27 22 15 4 425

Impact on countryside and wildlife

34 28 21 14 3 427

Other 32 10 49 1 8 71

From those respondents who ‘would not like to see more Tourists and Visitors being

attracted to Wendover’ 81% either ‘Strongly Agreed/Agreed’ this was due to ‘Car parking

issues’ and 76% ‘Traffic issues’.

1 | P a g e WNP Business, Employment and Tourism Appendix 1A 1 8 18 JKC

Wendover Neighbourhood Plan (WNP) Business and Employment Research

document

Appendix 1 Part A Data on Local businesses

11 Plus Coaching

11 Plus Tuition Aylesbury 11plustuitionaylesbury.com

4Paws Dog Home Boarding

a little bird www.alittlebirdtoldmegallery.com

a little bird told me gallery www.alittlebirdtoldmegallery.com

A S Landscapes www.aslandscape.uk

Abacus Cars abacus-cars.com

ABS Car Services wendovercarservice.co.uk

Accord Legal Services Ltd - Les Evans

ACS Plumbing and Heating Services

AD Carpentry

ADH Window Cleaning

Age UK Bucks www.ageukbucks.org.uk

AJ Automatics www.ajautomatics.co.uk

All Gardening Services

Alpha Clinic

Ammonite Coaching www.ammonitecoaching.co.uk

Andrew Gardner www.andrewgardner.co.uk

Angela Grace Psychic Medium - Mimosawood

spiritualangela.wixsite.com/angelagrace

Antiques at . . . Wendover www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk

Aston Hearing www.astonhearing.co.uk

Avocet Decorating

AWC Cleaning www.awc.cleaning

Aylesbury Vale Tutors

B Electrical Installations www.belectricalltd.co.uk

Barton Petroleum Ltd www.bartonpetroleum.co.uk

Baxter & Baxter Ltd www.baxterandbaxterltd.co.uk

Beacons Accountancy www.beaconsaccountancy.com

Bellflower

http://www.alittlebirdtoldmegallery.com/

http://www.astonhearing.co.uk/


Beshoffs Solicitors

Blue Ribbon Chauffeurs

bluepepper designs www.bpdesigns.co.uk

BML Personal Training www.bmlpersonaltraining.com

Board of Ironing

Bowen and Amatsu therapy www.anniehamilton.co.uk

BPS Electrical Services

Bradley & Jones bradleyandjones.co.uk

Brendan McFall

Brian Gardner Fencing www.gardnersfencing.co.uk

Brookes www.brookesclothing.co.uk

Buckmoorend Farm Shop www.buckmoorendfarm.co.uk

Budgens www.budgens.co.uk

C D Lane Contractors www.cdlanecontractors.ltd.uk

Calibre Audio Library www.calibre.org.uk/

Care Building Services Ltd www.carebuilds.com

Carl Knight Motor Services Ltd

Carolyn Cella Mobile Hairstylist

Carrie Cook Hairstyling

Cat Booker www.catbookerfitness.co.uk

Cataphract www.cataphract.co.uk

Cherry Tree House Residential Home

www.cherrytreehouseresidentialhome.co.uk/

Chiltern Brewery www.chilternbrewery.co.uk

Chiltern Decor

Chiltern Foot Health Services www.belmorecentre.co.uk/ian-phipps/

Chiltern MS Centre www,chilternsmscentre.org

Chilterns Sports Clinic www.sportsinjuryclinic.org.uk

China Water http://chinawater.co.uk/

Chris G Cycles

Christopher Graves Tailoring Services

Christopher Pallet Estate Agent www.christopherpallet.com/

Circuitfix electricianaylesbury.com

CLEANOVENS UK

Clearly Better Cleaning www.clearlybettercleaning.co.uk

Clements Carpentry

Colour Me Beautiful

Complete Outdoors www.completeoutdoors.co.uk

Concierge Property Maintenance www.conciergepropertymaintenance.co.uk

http://www.brookesclothing.co.uk/


Cornelli Sugarcraft www.cornellisugarcraft.co.uk/

County Glass and Glazing www.countyglassandglazing.co.uk

Coxgrove Wood

Cromptons Interiors Limited www.cromptonsinteriors.co.uk

D C Kaye & Co Solicitors www.dckaye.co.uk

D P External Solutions

D Small Construction

David Price & Co www.probateandestates.co.uk

Dickins Auctioneers Ltd www.dickinsauctioneers.com

DR Design

Driven Luxury Car Service

Effortless Motion Media

EKN Design www.ekndesign.co.uk

Elaine MacWhirter www.physioandpilatesinbucks.com

Elegantly Iced

Evans Property Maintenance Services

F R Jeffery and Son

FabricHQ www.fabrichq.co.uk

Fairstone Financial Management Ltd

fairstone.co.uk

Fashion by Design

Ffion Davies English Tution

Fiona Faber Floral Design www.fionafaber.com

Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity

www.fnhospice.org.uk/

FORCEONE AIR CONDITIONING www.forceoneaircon.co.uk

FORM Personal Training and Biomechanics

www.formptb.co.uk

Frank Fennell Plumbing & Heating

www.frankfennellplumbingservices.co.uk

French Tuition

G O'Callaghan Tree Care Ltd www.gocalltreecare.com

Garden Care & Maintenance - Simon Shirley

Garden Know How www.gardenknow-how.co.uk

George & Dragon www.georgeanddragonwendover.com/

Graham Blake Soft Furnishing www.grahamblake.com

Guitar Lessons

Halton Health and Fitness Club www.haltontennis.co.uk

Halton Physiotherapy www.halton-physiotherapy.co.uk

Hampden Financial Services www.hampdenfs.co.uk

Hampden Financial Services www.hampdenfs.co.uk

http://www.hampdenfs.co.uk/


Hand Made

Hand Made Castings www.handmadecastings.com

Harpenden Building Society http://www.harpendenbs.co.uk/

Hartbeeps www.hartbeeps.com

Harts and Hounds www.hartsandhounds.co.uk

Hase Osborne Asset Management (Fairstone)

http://www.wendovernews.co.uk/directory/Fairstone-Financial-Management-Ltd

Hawthorn Gardening

Healing Meditation Group www.beingmystical.co.uk

Helen Mulhall Personal Trainer helenmulhallpt.sharepoint.com

Helping Hands Home Care www.helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/

Hemingford Pest Control www.hemingfordpestcontrol.co.uk

Heritage and Sons, Funeral Directors

www.heritageandsons.com

HFP Architects www.hfparchitects.co.uk/

Hidden Beauty www.hiddenbeautyaylesbury.co.uk

Ian Whittome

Independent Living Consultants www.independentlivingconsultants.co.uk

Inside Out Property Maintenance

Ivan Cammack www.ivancammack.com

J G Evans

J T Venters Carpentry

Jack in the Box Preschool

Jane Williams Computer Tuition and Assistance

www.janewilliams.com

Jayne Robb - Freelance Design & Marketing and Jewellery

Jazzercise jazzercise.net/uk-aylesbury/

Jo Jingles www.jojingles.com/aylesbury

JoAnn Latus School of Dance www.jolatusdance.co.uk

John Colet School www.johncolet.co.uk

John Dennis www.johndennis4x4.co.uk

John Wiggins Plastering Services www.johnwiggins.co.uk

JSB Pressure Washing www.jsbpressurewashing.co.uk

JUST (@stmary's)

Just Aerials www.justaerials.co.uk

K Y Green Funeral Directors www.kygreen.co.uk

Karl's Garden Maintenance

Kate Holt Book Keeping Bureau www.kateholt.co.uk

Keith Bird Plumbing and Heating

Kings Farm Shop www.kingsfarmshop.co.uk/default.asp

L and C Home Improvements www.landchomeimprovements.ukpc.net


Lady Grey Tea Rooms www.ladygreytearoom.co.uk

Landcare Garden Services

Lawnkeeper www.lawnkeeper.co.uk

Legacy Fairs

Let's Cook

Let's Rent www.letsrentwendover.co.uk

Little Shop of Cheese www.littleshopofcheese.co.uk

Liveluxe www.liveluxe.co.uk/

Lucca Restaurant www.luccarestaurant.co.uk

Luke's Windows lukeswindows.com

M D Marriott

M J Electrical Engineering Ltd www.mj-electrical.co.uk

Man and Van

Maria Bray Nutritional Therapist www.mariabraynutritionaltherapy.com

Marie Boyle Sculpture Courses

Martin Holman's Pest Control & Services

www.martinholmanspestcontrol.co.uk

Masterclass 11 plus

Maths Tutor

Merryweather Mowers

Michael Harding www.michaelhardingcounselling.co.uk

Miss Popp-ins Soft Furnishing

N K Building & Renovations www.nkbuilding.co.uk

Nails by Rachael

Nelson Electrical Services

Nick Gammage Books

Nick Taylor Landscape Gardener

Nikki Pistak nicolepistak.zumba.com

NM Counselling www.nmcounselling.co.uk

No 1

No 32 Ltd www.lanecastle.com

No2 Pound Street www.2poundstreet.com

North Mill Stoves www.northmillstoves.co.uk

numbers chartered certified accountants

www.numbers-ltd.co.uk

Oak Garden Machinery www.oakgardenmachinery.co.uk

Oakwood Wellbeing www.oakwood.org.uk

Old Pastures Kennels and Grooming

www.spoilyourdog.co.uk/

Otec otec.org.uk

http://www.ladygreytearoom.co.uk/

http://www.lanecastle.com/


Ovenu www.ovenu.co.uk

P K Stroy Quality Builder www.peterstroy.co.uk

P Kernan Tree Surgery

Paul Hammett Accounting Solutions

Paul Kempster - Executive Car Hire

Pauline Mobile Hairdresser

Peach Lane Studios www.peachlanestudios.co.uk/

Perfect Lawn Care www.perfectlawncare.co.uk

Perry House Dental Surgery www.perryhousedentalsurgery.co.uk

Pete Kurnik Roof Repairs

Peter Bird Garden Design www.peterbirddesign.co.uk

Peter Ellis Painter & Decorator

PH Accounting Solutions Ltd

Plantscapes

Plumb It All

Practical Computing http://www.practicalcomputing.co.uk/

Pretty Nails www.prettynailswendover.co.uk

Psychic Readings www.souldivination.co.uk

R & S Heating Services

Radley Windows, Doors and Conservatories

www.radleyaylesbury.co.uk

Raspberry Rhubarb www.raspberryrhubarb.com

Red Lion Hotel www.redlionhotelwendover.co.uk/

Red Rose Garage www.wendovermotorspares.co.uk

ReMEDI Rx

Right Way HR Services

RJW Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Robert White

Rothschild Pavilion www.haltontennis.co.uk

Roy Coates

Rozelle School of Dancing

Rumseys www.rumseys.co.uk

Russell Arms www.russellarms.co.uk

Scruples scruplesofwendover.co.uk

Serene Landscapes

Shaun Guard TV Aerial Services

Simply HR Consulting www.simplyhrconsulting.co.uk

Simply Luxurious Travel Ltd www.simplyluxurioustravel.co.uk

Simply the Best simplythebestdrycleaning.co.uk

Sinfields Fruit and Vegetable Stall - Wendover Market

http://www.simplyluxurioustravel.co.uk/


Smashing Windows www.smashingwindows.com

Smile Design Dentistry www.smiledesigndental.co.uk

South Street Barbers www.southstreetbarbers.co.uk

Spice Garden www.thespicegarden.net/

Store More Containers

Stuart Fantham and Company http://www.stuartfantham.co.uk/

Stuart McCurry & Partners www.stuart-mccurry-partners.co.uk/

Studio 18

Swan Valley Roofing

Sweeney Budgens Chiltern Stores Ltd

Tai Chi www.yangshengtaichi.com

TANGLED Hair Salon www.tangledofwendover.co.uk

Taste

The 50plus Handyman www.the50plus.co.uk/

The Art Works

The Bakers Shop

The Boiler Blokes theboilerblokes.co.uk

The Coffee Stop www.thecoffeestop.org/

The Flower Gallery www.wendoverflowers.co.uk/

The Gatemakers www.gatemakers.co.uk

The Loft Studio and Gallery

The Practical Gardening Company

The Shepherd's Hut Day Nursery

The Village Gate

Tim Russ & Company www.timruss.co.uk

Tom Chamlet Builders www.tomchamletbuilders.com

Town and Country Fencing www.tc-landscaping.co.uk

Travel Impressions www.travelimpressions.co.uk

Tring TV

Universal Care www.universal-care.co.uk

Vapor Clean www.vaporclean.co.uk

Village Environmental Services

Village Housekeepers Ironing Service

Wagging Tails www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk/hp/carers

Water Babies www.waterbabies.co.uk

Waterbeds UK www.waterbeds.uk.com

Wendover Carpets and Flooring

Wendover Computers wendover-computers.co.uk/

http://www.stuart-mccurry-partners.co.uk/


Wendover Financial www.wendoverfinancial.co.ukl

Wendover Fitness www.wendoverfitness.co.uk

Wendover Hardware

Wendover Heights Veterinary Centre

www.whvc.co.uk

Wendover Memorial Hall

Wendover Motor Spares www.wendovermotorspares.co.uk

Wendover News www.wendovernews.co.uk

Wendover Post Office

Wendover Taxis

Wendover Wood wendoverwood.tictail.com/

Wendover Wood (paid by Lawnhurst)

Wendover Youth Centre

Whiteleaf Financial plc

Whitewaters Deli Cafe www.facebook.com/Whitewaters-Deli-Cafe-216083348415310/

WHVC Ltd www.whvc.co.uk

Will Sidebottom

William Avery Ltd

Yostrato - Website Design & Digital Marketing

yostrato.com

Your Own Home Care www.yourownhomecare.co.uk

http://www.wendovernews.co.uk/


Wendover Neighbourhood Plan (WNP) Business and Employment Research

document Appendix 2A

Aylesbury Vale Local Plan 2004 Current Policies

Policy GP8 Protection of amenity of residents:

This policy advises that planning permission will not be granted where the proposed

development would unreasonably harm any aspect of the amenity of nearby residents

when considered against the benefits arising from the proposal.

Policy GP17 Retention in use of existing employment sites

This policy supports the retention and continued use of existing employment sites.

Changes would only be permitted where the existing use has an adverse impact on

amenity of neighbours and its replacement would be an improvement, or where there

are appropriate alternative employment opportunities available on other sites or as

part of a proposed development, or as part of a larger mixed use scheme.

Policy GP24 Car Parking guidelines

New development will be required to provide vehicular parking in accordance with

the Council’s operative guidelines published as Supplementary Planning Guidance.

These guidelines are intended to promote more sustainable transport options and

will establish maximum levels of parking appropriate to the scale, type and location

of development.

Policy GP32 Retention of shops, public houses and post offices

This policy supports the retention and continued use of buildings currently used as

shops, public houses and post offices where possible.

“In considering applications for alternative development or uses the Council will have

regard to the viability of the existing use, the presence of alternative local facilities

and the community benefits of the proposed use.”....

Policy GP38 Landscaping of new development proposals:

This advises that applications for new development should include landscaping

proposals both for hard and soft landscaping to help buildings fit in with and

complement their surroundings and conserve existing natural and other features of

value as far as possible.

Hard landscaping should incorporate materials appropriate to the character of the

locality. New planting should be with predominantly native species.


Policy GP53 new development in and adjacent to Conservation Areas

In Conservation Areas the Council will seek to preserve or enhance the special

characteristics that led to the designation of the area.

Proposals for development will not be permitted if they cause harm to the character

or appearance of the Conservation Areas, their settings ad any associated views of or

from the Conservation Area.

Policy GP69 Hotel and Motel Development

Within the built up areas of settlements the Council will permit proposals for the

construction of new hotels and motels and the conversion of buildings to such uses,

subject to the other policies of the Plan.

Policy GP70 Change of use of rural buildings and historic buildings to hotel use

Proposals for the change of use of rural buildings to hotels or motels will only be

permitted where they are consistent with the principle of protecting the character

and appearance of the countryside and the need to reduce car-borne travel.

Policy GP77 Horse related development

This policy advise on the approach to be taken when considering proposals for

equestrian activities and buildings such as stables and other out buildings and the

requirement for the Council to assess the suitability of the location, the environmental

effects and the impact on the agricultural and rural character of the land. Proposals

would be assessed under six specific criteria.

Policy GP78 Stables, looseboxes and other buildings for horses

This policy provides advice for the design and siting of equestrian buildings and their

relationship with the locality and uses.

Policy GP93 Safeguarding of community buildings and facilities

The Council will resist proposals for the change of use of community buildings and

facilities for which there is a demonstrable local need.

Policy GP95 Unneighbourly Uses

In dealing with all planning proposals the Council will have regard to the protection

of the amenities of existing occupiers. Development that exacerbates any adverse

effects of existing uses will not be permitted.


Policy RA6 Development in Metropolitan Green Belt

Within the Metropolitan Green Belt there is a presumption against new building

development except for the purposes of agriculture or forestry, essential facilities for

outdoor sport and recreation, cemeteries and other uses of land which preserve the

openness of the Green Belt.

The re-use of buildings of permanent and substantial construction may be permitted

where there is no greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt and the form, bulk

and design of any conversion is in keeping with the surro undings and does not involve

major or complete reconstruction.

Policy RA8 Development in the Areas of Attractive Landscape and Local Landscape

Areas

Development proposals in these areas should respect their landscape character.

Development that adversely affects this character will not be permitted, unless

appropriate mitigation measures can be secured.

Policy RA11 Conversion of buildings in the countryside

Outside the built-up area of settlements the Council endorses the conservation and re-

use of buildings that are of permanent and substantial construction and generally in

keeping with the rural surroundings, for non-residential purposes that fortify the rural

economy.

The scale of such schemes should not conflict with the strategy of concentrating

development in the main settlements. Conversion works should not involve major

reconstruction or significant extensions and should respect the character of the building

and its setting. Proposals should not give rise to other planning objections. Permission

for residential re-use is unlikely but may be granted exceptionally as part of an acceptable

business conversion scheme or where genuine attempts to secure business re-use have

been unsuccessful.

Policy RA29 Proposals for new employment uses in the countryside

Except where otherwise allowed for in the Local Plan outside the built up areas of

settlements and identified employment areas, the Council will resist proposals for new

employment buildings and for the expansion of established employment sites into the

countryside.

1 | P a g e WNP Business, Employment and Tourism Appendix 2B 1 8 18 JKC

WNP Business, Employment and Tourism appendix 2B

Extracts from VALP

Economy and employment (page 19)

1.40 The latest Government figures indicate that there are 73,000 employee jobs in Aylesbury

Vale

(Source: ONS Business Register and Employment Survey, 2015).

1.41 Unemployment (2016) amongst residents, at 3.4%, is significantly lower than the level

for Great Britain as a whole (4.8%). Average earnings of residents are higher than across the

South East region or Great Britain.

1.42 The district is influenced by a number of larger employment centres around its borders,

particularly Milton Keynes to the north, Luton/Dunstable and Hemel Hempstead to the

east/south east, High Wycombe to the south, and Oxford and Bicester to the west. Data from

the 2011 Census shows that 35,025 residents commute out of the district to work

(predominantly to areas just outside the district, but also further afield such as London) and

19,872 residents from other districts commute into Aylesbury Vale each day. Significant

employment is planned across the district which will increase opportunities for residents to

work within its borders.

1.43 As well as centres of employment in the main settlements, there are a number of other

important large employment locations across the district, including part of Silverstone Circuit,

Buckingham Industrial Park, Westcott Venture Park, Long Crendon Industrial Park,

Haddenham Business Park and College Road North Business Park associated with the Arla

development. The RAF training base at RAF Halton, near Wendover, is of significant

importance to the local economy. The base is, however, expected to close during the Plan

period, after which land will become available for other uses, predominantly housing. The

National Spinal Injuries Centre is located at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, and Stoke Mandeville

Stadium is the national centre for wheelchair sport.

1.44 There are a large number of small to medium sized business enterprises thriving across

the more rural parts of the district which form an important part of the overall economy.

Page 35

e. Wendover will accommodate around 1,128 new homes with 1,000 new homes at

Halton Camp which is now confirmed to be closing in 2022 recognising the sustainability of


Wendover and the railway station. No further growth is allocated at Wendover reflecting the

environmental constraints of the surrounding AONB and Green Belt land.

Page 126

Site-specific Requirements

Development proposals must be accompanied by the information required in the Council’s

Local Validation List and comply with all other relevant policies in the plan, including the

principles of development for Aylesbury Garden Town and the Masterplan SPD to be prepared

for the site. In addition, proposals should comply with the following criteria:

a. Provision of land for 1,000 dwellings during this plan period at a density that takes

account of the existing curtilage of the buildings on the site, and that of the adjacent

settlement character and identity if appropriate

b. Be planned using a landscape-led approach, taking account of the character and

setting of the Chilterns AONB

c. Provision of junction improvements onto the B4009 Upper Icknield Way

d. Provision for public transport into Wendover and to surrounding areas

e. Establishment of and safeguarding for a network of cycling and walking links

f. Provision of green infrastructure to link to other new development areas and the

wider countryside

g. Provision of land, buildings and car parking for a combined primary school including

playing field provision

h. Provision of land, buildings and car parking for a new local centre including community

hall.

Page 147

D5 Provision of employment land

Employment development will generally be supported in sustainable locations:

a. through allocations in this plan and appropriate allocations in neighbourhood plans

b. through the intensification or extension of existing premises

c. as part of a farm diversification scheme


d. through the appropriate re-use or replacement of an existing building, or

e. in a rural location where this is essential for that type of business.

Page 148

Town, village and local centres to support new and existing communities

4.181 To support economic, retail and leisure activity in centres within the other strategic

settlements of Winslow, Wendover and Haddenham, the Council will encourage a mix of uses

as well as resisting the loss of essential provision. The policy seeks to create a positive

framework to support economic growth and diversity in town and local centres with a mix of

uses which can include retail, leisure, services and employment.

4.182 Similar to the approach for supporting employment growth, the strategy for town,

village and local centres seeks flexibility to support opportunities for sustainable growth. This

approach also recognises that a variety of uses, as well as retail, need to be encouraged to

support local, village and town centres, particularly at strategic centres. This will enable them

to compete with centres outside the district, make them more sustainable and support their

renaissance.

4.183 Community services and local facilities continue to be important in local and village

centres. The strategy seeks to resist the loss of essential facilities and businesses such as local

shops, pubs and post offices and wider community services so that communities continue to

thrive and do not stagnate or go into decline. Policy I3 covers this in more detail. The Council

will support communities in preparing neighbourhood plans to help address these issues.

Page 150

D6 Town, village and local centres to support new and existing communities

The strategy for town, village and local centres builds on the vision and strategic objectives

set out in the VALP. Growth and expansion of town and local centres should be consistent

with the existing hierarchy of centres within the district.

The Council will promote the sustainable growth and regeneration of Aylesbury, Buckingham,

Haddenham, Wendover and Winslow. Within defined town centres, development proposals

for retail, leisure, commercial, office, tourism, cultural, community and residential

development will be supported (subject to compliance with other policies in the VALP) where

they:


a. retain or enhance the town centre’s historic character and appearance, vitality and

viability

b. sustain or enhance diverse town centre uses and customer choice, incorporating

residential accommodation above ground floor level where possible, and

c. are readily accessible by public transport, walking and cycling.

Proposals for town centre uses should be sited within the town or local centres. Proposals for

such uses outside town or local centres are to be considered against Policy E5.

Proposals for development in and around town, local or village centres, including proposals

for changes of use, should support the aspirations for regeneration of those centres including

those subject to neighbourhood plans by improving the range and quality of retail, public

realm, leisure, employment and training opportunities.

Page 185

E2 Other employment sites

Outside key employment sites, the redevelopment and/or reuse of employment sites to an

alternative employment use will normally be permitted provided all of the following criteria

apply:

a. Where it will not prejudice the efficient and effective use of the remainder of the

employment area

b. The site has been marketed as an employment site for an employment use suitable to

the site and location at a suitable price, by appropriate means for at least two years with no

viable interest, and

c. There is a substantial over-supply of suitable alternative employment sites in the local

area.

Page 187

E4 Working at home

Partial use of a residential property for business use will be permitted where there are no

unacceptable impacts on residential amenity and it would not have an adverse effect on the

character of an area, whilst making appropriate provision for access, parking and noise

attenuation arising from the business activity.


Page 190

E6 Shop and business frontages

Primary shopping frontages

Within the primary shopping frontages in the town centres (as shown on the Policies Map)33

at ground floor level, only A1, A2 and A3 uses will be permitted. A2 and A3 uses will be

permitted where they adjoin an A1 use, subject to achieving a good mix of retail uses overall

provided the proposal:

a. either cumulatively or individually is considered to contribute positively to the vitality

and viability of the area

b. would not result in the loss of an A1 use on a visually prominent site.

Page 192

E7 Tourism development

The Council will promote a growing, sustainable tourism sector, and support proposals.

Proposals for new or expanded tourism, visitor or leisure facilities will be supported within or

adjacent to settlements. Elsewhere, the nature of the proposed development must justify a

countryside location and minimise environmental impacts, and avoid unacceptable traffic

impact on the local road network. Development proposals will be supported where they meet

all the following criteria:

a. Respect the character, appearance and historic significance of the location

b. Involve conversion or replacement of existing buildings

c. Any extension or new building(s) forms part of an existing tourist facility

d. In the case of seasonal structures these are temporary in nature and do not have an

adverse impact on the landscape, and

e. Demonstrate that the need is not met by existing provision within nearby settlements.

Page 194

E8 Tourist accommodation

Tourist accommodation in strategic settlements and large or medium villages, including new

build, extensions or additions to existing facilities, will be supported where:


a. The proposal is located within designated town centre of strategic settlements or in

large or medium village centres that are sustainable and accessible by a choice of transport

modes, or

b. Where a sequential test has been applied to a proposal on the edge or outside town

centres and it has been satisfactorily demonstrated that there is no significant adverse impact

on the vitality and viability of the surrounding town centres, and is accessible by a choice of

transport modes.

1 | P a g e WNP Business, Employment and Tourism Appendix 3 1 8 18 JKC

Wendover Neighbourhood Plan (WNP) Business, Employment and Tourism Report Appendix 3

Reference Subject CES reference

Issue Comment Existing/further evidence

VALP reference Action or Potential general or site specific Policy

1 Shopping within Town Centre

CES 1 Shops Lack of variety. Specific comments seeking new retail/services for Town. See QSR 4.3 and BERD 5.5.1.2.

Reduction in choice part of a national trend. Also evidenced in Aylesbury Retail study 2015.

Aylesbury Retail Study 2015. Need to look at successful Town Centres where there is variety.

VALP paragraphs 6.21 to 6.24 and Policy E6 (link to E5 which restricts out of Town development)

Policy could seek to prevent changes of use for certain types of shop. Need steps to encourage different retail offer.


CES1 Shops Too many charity shops, hairdressers, and flower shops

Feature of many High Streets.

Evidence is based on national trends.

VALP paragraph 6.21 refers to the vitality of Town Centres depending on a mix of uses.

Policy could seek to restrict Town Centre to certain types of shop/limit change of use. Market/competition may affect position over time. Discuss management issues with Landlords.


CES1 Shops/services

Inappropriate funeral parlour in the High Street

Particular use is likely to depend on range of tenants seeking shop.

Evidence can be obtained from landlord. Again the need to learn from other s

Generally VALP section 6.

May depend on discussions with the landlords of the primary shopping frontage. A general Policy to restrict un-neighbourly uses in the primary frontage.



Issue Comment Existing/further evidence


4 Business support

CES 1 Business feedback in CES 2

Need for business hub for networking and avoiding isolation/share ideas and trade

Mixed views from COTC on this issue. Challenges are location and costs.

Business feedback in CES 2 report refers to options. Need to learn from other places.

VALP has general aim to encourage sustainable development: 6.1 TVLEP strategy and NPPF have provisions to encourage business.

Policy could promote the development of a Hub at a particular location and with appropriate financial support. Possible use of premises at RAF Halton site. Action needed to find site and address costs (see BERD section 6)

5 Business costs CES 1 business costs, and CES 2

High costs of renting Specific issue raised by residents and businesses

Interim Business report raises this. How have others solved/addressed this. Flexible options on space can be explored. LA support/start up grants.

VALP paragraph 6.1 and overall vision aims at 3.3.

Policy could encourage use of premises for start -ups but this would depend on available subsidies or support. Talk to landlords and could be explored as part of assessment of retail /services development of Town Centre (see BERD section 6)

6 Business costs CES 1 business costs and QSR

High rates Suggestions for reduced rates etc for new business (see note 1)

National campaign for rates reform by business leaders.

National evidence base.

May affect VALP vision if impacts on business start- ups/failures

Policy re start- ups could look to support rate reduction for start -ups. Indirect action only. Assess as 5 (see section 6)

7 Business start- up/running costs

CES2 Install fibre optic broadband and free wifi

1 Specific response so far.

Suggestion is for free wifi to help Town Centre

VALP stresses the need for fast broadband.

Policy could support improvements.


LA/WCOTC action to take forward.


Issue Comment Evidence available or needed


8 New industrial and commercial units for start-ups

CES 1 and 2 Provision of start-up units in appropriate places

No current data on level of demand. Employment Land Survey does not cover the issue for Wendover.

None offered in the response to call for sites. Future empty properties on existing business sites could be used.

VALP E2, or in certain cases E5.

Specific site could be proposed (with WNP policy) and WNP could adapt Policy E2 for such a proposed site. WNP could support. Survey to assess demand and research on sites needed (section 6)

9 Encourage sustainable start-ups

CES1 What green tech or other sustainable land/premises are needed and can the right site be found.

Support if users there.

Need to identify if any sites exist and explore financial grants etc available.

Whole VALP’s vision/strategy is to be sustainable.

Demand needs assessing and site/s needs finding. WNP and Policy could then support development of such sites for employment use Section 6)

10 Promotion of business

CES 1 and CES2

Need for development of a USP and for local people to support Town’s businesses.

Issue is what specific steps are needed and linked to the development of Town’s offer and incentives for support of local businesses.

There is some background evidence on attraction of Wendover. Issue also relates to incentives

Wendover is a strategic settlement and there are provisions in the VALP which could be built on.

Policy to support the development of a more diverse services and shopping centre. Action to extend promotional activities/incentives Further work under section 6.





11 Business development: Tourism

CES1 and CES2 and also BERD at 5.3 which summarises matters raised.

People want specific measures to encourage and accommodate tourism.

Linked in part to USP but requires specific policies and actions.

Some in CES 2 but other should be available from local stakeholders –ie Forestry Commission or AVDC studies.

Specific Policies E 7 and E 8 plus supporting text.

Policies to support tourist accommodation (identify sites/locations) and expand information provision and activities (tours/information provision). Action to develop this as outlined at section 6.

12 Business development

QSR response Section 4.6

Incentive scheme at Triangle business park involving reduced start -up costs

Outside the Parish

Not applicable National issue/possible rate relief issue at local level

Not applicable. Need to include with other material ie FAQs to show response to points raised. Advise SMPC.

13 The development of RAF Halton and its impact on employment and jobs(general )

CES 1 and CES 2

Replace jobs lost and create new ones linked to heritage, technical skills, education and university links, as well as tourism, health, sport, and leisure.

Very important community issue.

Most work to develop these aims will be done as partners in the RAF Halton Masterplan

VALP policies on RAF Halton Masterplan plus Modifications in light of RAFHSG discussions and VALP EIP.

Policies in WNP SG will seek to influence policies across the board. Promote in RAFHSG meetings. See summary of points at Appendix 4.

14 Barriers to business development

CES 1 and 2 and WSR

Lack of Parking Covered in transport but barrier for 81% responders (4.4 QSR)

Abundant popular feeling from residents and business that more parking needed.

Policies in evidence papers for VALP state general aim only with no proposals.

WPC is taking action to try to remedy. Options ventilated in QSR and further action needed to pursue. Policies in Transport section WNP.




VALP reference Action or proposed general or site specific Policies

15 Physical disability access

CES 2 and in QSR

Access to some shops/services is difficult due to nature of entrances and premises design

This has been raised generally with WN and/or with WPC

Evidence is there from observation

Underlying requirement for equal access for goods and services

Should be taken on as a specific project by WPC/AVDC with support of business. WNP should support through WNP text and policies

16 Mental health disability access issues

CES1 and CES 2

For those with dementia and other challenging MH conditions there can be hidden and challenging barriers to access businesses

Raised by dementia awareness group and by business owner and work on some aspects started

Evidence been given by support group and from community.

As 15 Access should be an ongoing issue for WPC/AVDC in cooperation with suitable stakeholders and business. WNP text and Policies should support better access.

17 Maintenance of pavements and common spaces

CES2 and QSR

Poor condition of some surfaces and paths in centre and litter issues

Ongoing issue throughout

Apparent from feedback and observation

VALP and support documents on retail provision stress maintenance issues important.

Should be WPC/Bucks CC issue to have proper programme of repairs/maintenance and better litter control, and encouragement of recycling.

18 Loss of Bank and consequent vacant premises

CES 1 and CES 2 plus QSR

Loss of Bank and its services creates hardship Issue of maintenance of vacant premises

Ongoing issue and maintenance of High Street

Much feedback on hardship of loss of Bank. Maintenance link to heritage Topic

Wendover is strategic settlement partly because of Bank.

Should be aim to maintain bank/financial services and find out alternatives (ie Post Office). WPC/AVDC issue.


Note 1: Suggestions have been made for reduced rates for first 5 years of a business, reasonable

rates for start -ups and/or local businesses, and affordable rates.

Note 2: Please refer to text of BERD for the definition of the abbreviations such as CES, VALP, etc. QSR is the Questionnaire Survey report .WCOTC is

Wendover Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

Note 3: the references to VALP supporting documents or other evidence is as accurate as possible at this stage.

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