September 2020

6 Buckden Roundabout September 2020 budgets. Overall, this is a sensible and brave new world. There will be some difficult areas while the detail is worked out, and HDC is working on the consultation. But the current system is not producing the housing needed for the next generation nor ad- dressing the legitimate concerns of Buckden residents. I wel- come your thoughts on this and any other issue. In the mean- time, stay safe! Hamish Masson Hamish.masson@huntingdonshire.gov.uk or on Facebook (District Councillor Report continued from page 5) Built originally in the 15 th century as a palatial residence for the Bishops of Lincoln, and later used as a place of confine- ment for Katherine of Aragon, Buckden Towers has been wit- ness to over 500 years of English history. Presently the buildings are owned and used by The Claretians, a congregation of missionaries, which seeks to provide the space and opportunity for people of all faiths, or none, through retreats, seminars and conferences, to develop and follow their own lives. The Friends of Buckden Towers exists to support the owners of Buckden Towers in the care and maintenance of the proper- ty, and to promote the profile of The Towers as an interesting place to visit. Through membership subscriptions and their fund raising ac- tivities the Friends of Buckden Towers are able to provide a useful contribution to the costs of maintaining and improving the property. Currently the Friends are supporting an essential major repair to the Outer Gatehouse, involving a significant financial contri- bution to the cost of the works. All work carried out to the property of Buckden Towers must be executed to the high standards required by Historic England, and this of course is not inexpensive. The “ Friends ” are a Charitable Trust managed by a Council of Management of up to 12 persons. Ordinary membership of the Trust is open to anybody, from here in Buckden or elsewhere. New members are always welcome. Much more information about The Friends of Buckden Towers is available on the Friends ’ web site : www.fobt.org.uk For information about membership, please see the web page, or contact Frances Farmer : Membershiptow- ers@btinternet.com or by phone 01480 812368 Once the current restrictions have been lifted, and The Clareti- ans are confident that we are able to meet requirements, tours of the property can be arranged, by appointment, through Christine Lawrence chrismlaw@btinternet.com or by phone 01480 812227. Please note that our programme of tours and social events is in “ Covid Limbo ” at present, but we hope to get going again soon. Friends of Buckden Towers Buckden Towers is an important historic monument right here in the village of Buckden. Buckden Towers