As reported in June 2007, a 56-point draft Action Plan for Eynsham has evolved from consultation with residents. Top priorities include activities for young people; affordable housing; more jobs and shops; more visible policing; less traffic and fewer heavy vehicles. Read the Review 2007/8.

Over 120 key organisations and individuals received copies of the full Parish Plan, which was grant-funded by Defra. Some of you also picked up a copy at the Village Open Day on 22 September 2007. Ask in the Library if you want to see it in print.

POLICING received a major boost in September 2007, with the arrival of our new Community Support Officers Robert Hopping and Helen Keen - pictured. You can contact them on 08458 505 505.

The PARISH COUNCIL discussed items within its remit in detail:

• Provision of allotments - there appear to be no local people on the waiting list. View update 2009 >>
• Bike racks outside the Spar - under consideration.
• Witney Road play area and extension to basketball court - in hand. View update 2009 >>
• Maximising local use of the new Sports Hall - agreed to press for priority to be given to local groups once existing bookings expire at the centre.
• Public notice boards; a village map in the Square - under consideration; improvements agreed in principle (Communications Committee).
• Review and improve signage - to be considered with District and County councils. View report 2010 - signposting for visitors >>
• Clearance of ditches - checking ownership of land and possible labour supply.

The COUNTY COUNCIL also provided a detailed response. Some useful points were made:

• Renewal of stiles/gates and signposts is in hand in liaison with the Parish Council.
• The Youth Centre in Back Lane runs all year round, though currently restricted to ages 13+: call Carol Rowlands on 01993 772731 email. “Unfortunately there is little capacity to extend provision without additional resources”. View update 2009 >>
• Damaged surfaces on roads and footways (kerbs/paving) can be reported direct to the Northern Highways Area Office on 0845 310 1111 email.

The DISTRICT COUNCIL has taken action in several areas:

• Witney Road Play Area - grant of just over £18,500 towards the project: easily the largest recreational award this year. A total of £28,000 was agreed for the entire district. View update 2009 >>
• Eynsham East Development - consulting with the local council on developer contribution/s, to compensate for any loss of amenity to the community. View update 2009 >>
• Back Lane Public Toilets - plans for replacement with a unisex toilet and retail unit (Lloyds chemist), with 2 flats above. View update 2009 >>

The TRAFFIC ADVISORY Committee meets only twice a year, but discussed several of the parking & traffic issues raised in the Plan on 16 January 2007. These included bus lanes and the toll bridge; vehicle length/width restrictions; and parking - subject of a new campaign.

VOLUNTEERS have opened up the Wharf Stream to enable canoes and small boats to access the Thames, with support from Siemens and a small grant from the Parish Council. They are also keeping a wildlife log - contributions welcome via The Talbot.

For more information - or if you want to help - please contact the ECI Steering Group. Ring Chris Roles 01865 880674 or write c/o Eynsham Emporium or email.