June 2022

15 Buckden Roundabout June 2022 Buckden PC Annual Report Green infrastructure and biodiversity What have we achieved this year? • Produced a Biodiversity Strategy to support the Council and its staff in maintaining and improving the biodiversity in the village. • Implemented “ No Mow May ” to help butterflies and insects • Commissioned our triennial tree survey and carried out all recommended work • Completed the work on Hunts End and have a beautiful wildflower area developing • Produced a leaflet on Tree planting and there will be another leaflet later in the year. • Together with the Friends of Buckden Towers planted one of two oak trees to mark the Queen ’ s Platinum Jubilee • Created a footpath working group to help maintain paths What didn ’ t work so well? • Have not as yet manged to get a new footpath designated Future priorities • Establish a tree walk, with “ talking trees ” using QR codes • Continue to work to get a new footpath designated • Implement the Biodiversity strategy. At the allotments What have we achieved this year? • New shelter built and seat installed to commemorate Stan Studd a keen allotment holder and Parish Councillor • A regular newsletter goes out with news and seasonal tips for working the allotments • We are installing new fencing to ensure compliance with our lease for the allotments. This will be important when we negotiate with the developers about the allotments e.g. parking • Created a Buckden Community Allotments Facebook group. • All plots will be cultivated this year, 50 in total, and reduced the waiting list • Set up seed bank What didn ’ t work so well? • Haven ’ t been able to organise any social events Future priorities • Increase Social activities. • Plant some community fruit trees. • Maintain and enhance the allotments area to a high standard. Climate Change What have we achieved this year? • Supported residents to use thermal imaging camera to identify opportunities for reducing heat loss from homes • Ran a Greening Buckden afternoon on the Village Green • Funded the purchase of two water pumps for use by those in the village most at risk of flooding. What didn ’ t work • Unable to install on - street charging points for electric vehicles as grants for that are no longer available. Future priorities • Continue to promote energy conservation