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Subject: Bucks Council rejects misleading plans, backs rural enterprise

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Stoke Poges Planning Dispute: Committee Refuses Alterations, Citing Misleading Plans

The East and South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee convened this week to address a contentious planning application concerning alterations to a property on Gerrards Cross Road, Stoke Poges. You can find the full details of the meeting here. The committee ultimately voted to refuse the application, highlighting concerns over discrepancies between approved plans and the as-built development.

  • The application sought a variation to a previous planning permission for extensions and alterations to a dwelling, aiming to align the plans with the current state of the property.
  • However, the committee heard that the building was 1.5 metres further north and 1.75 metres further east than the original permission.
  • Objectors argued that the scheme was incorrectly placed on the site, and that the ridge height was misrepresented in the approved application.
  • Trevor Eagleton, representing Stoke Poges Parish Council, argued that the application should have been a full reapplication rather than a variation of condition, stating, It is just beyond me why we have to have so many alterations to a set of drawings that are ignored once the original planning permission has been granted.
  • Councillor Wendy Matthews stated that the plans were a fundamental part of the approval, and that it was not possible to vary the location of the building.
  • Councillor Mark Roberts countered that the building hadn't moved, but that the drawing that was approved in the last planning application incorrectly showed it in the wrong place.
  • The committee ultimately refused the application, citing material harm to policy EP3 of the local plan1, and policies SP6 and SP7 of the Stoke Poges Neighbourhood Plan2.

The decision underscores the importance of accurate planning submissions and the potential consequences of deviations from approved plans, particularly in areas with established design codes.

Taplow Green Belt: Committee Approves Retrospective Application for Agricultural Buildings

In contrast to the Stoke Poges decision, the East and South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee approved a retrospective application for the retention of two agricultural buildings on land at Oakmead, Ye Meads, Taplow, SL6 0DH. You can find the full details of the meeting here.

  • The application site is located within the green belt, but the committee agreed that the development met the exception for buildings for agriculture and forestry.
  • Matthew Grant, the applicant, explained that his family had owned the land for 75 years, and that the new buildings provided a safe and dry space to store tools and work on his traditional green woodworking products.
  • Councillor Jonathan Waters stated that the buildings had a clear purpose and fit pretty well within the countryside.
  • Councillor Wendy Matthews stated that it was important to support this sort of enterprise within Buckinghamshire.
  • The committee found that the application aligned with the relevant policies and would provide for a sustainable form of development.

This decision highlights the council's willingness to support rural enterprise and sustainable development within the green belt, provided that applications meet specific criteria and demonstrate a clear agricultural or forestry purpose.

Trading Standards Targets Illegal Vapes and Underage Sales

The Buckinghamshire Council and Surrey County Council Joint Trading Standards Service Committee convened this week to discuss a range of issues, including efforts to combat the sale of illegal vapes and vaping products to underage individuals. The meeting was scheduled to take place at the Council Chamber, Woodhatch Place, Reigate.

  • The committee received an update on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which was making its way through Parliament, and The Environmental Protection (Single use Vapes) (England) Regulations 2024, which came into force on 1 June 2025, banning the sale of single-use vapes.
  • From April 2024 to the end of March 2025, the service had received 205 complaints about illegal vapes and alleged underage sales of vapes.
  • The service conducted 139 test purchases of vapes in 2024/25, issuing 13 warnings to premises that had sold vapes to under-18s.
  • Three premises had been shut down by court order following the repeated supply of illegal tobacco and vapes.
  • The service is supporting schools in Surrey by providing information through the Healthy Schools initiative, and is working with public health colleagues in Buckinghamshire on a pilot scheme to work with businesses near schools to support them in not supplying illegal vapes, tobacco, and alcohol.

These efforts are crucial to protecting the health and well-being of young people and ensuring that businesses comply with regulations regarding the sale of age-restricted products.

Other Matters

  • The Standards and General Purposes Committee appointed Councillor Kelly Thornton as Vice-Chairman and reviewed the annual report on the Member Code of Conduct complaints for 2024/25. You can read the full report pack here.
  • The Buckinghamshire Shareholder Committee discussed options for Consilio Property Ltd. and reviewed the annual report, forward plan, and risk registers of its subsidiary companies. You can read the full report pack here.
  • The Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority received an update on the HMICFRS findings for Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and discussed performance management. No video was provided.

Upcoming Meetings

  • Licensing (Premises) Committee on Tuesday 17 June 2025 will consider the appointment of a vice-chairman, and review the minutes of the previous meeting. Read the agenda here.
  • Cabinet on Tuesday 17 June 2025 will discuss the annual report, budget management, and performance. Read the agenda here.
  • Licensing (Public Protection) Committee on Tuesday 17 June 2025, to discuss mobile home fees and taxi enforcement in Buckinghamshire. Read the agenda here.
  • Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel on Friday 20 June 2025, will discuss the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner's Annual Report 2024/25, and a review of the Panel's rules and procedures. Read the agenda here.
  • Children's & Education Select Committee on Thursday 19 June 2025 will discuss the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) landscape, the outcome of an Ofsted inspection, and national reforms to children's services. Read the agenda here.
  • Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee on Thursday 19 June 2025 will consider an application for a new premises licence for The Garibaldi in Burnham. Read the agenda here.
  • Meetings for the Strategic Sites Committee, Growth, Infrastructure and Housing Select Committee, Audit and Governance Committee, Health and Adult Social Care Select Committee and Communities and Localism Forum are scheduled for the week commencing Monday 23 June 2025. No further information is available about these meetings, [http://opencouncil.network/meetings/70623], [http://opencouncil.network/meetings/70605], [http://opencouncil.network/meetings/70610], [http://opencouncil.network/meetings/70614].

  1. Policy EP3 relates to the use, design and layout of development. 

  2. Policies SP6 and SP7 relate to design codes and local heritage assets. 

Winslow Bar Licence Sparks Debate, Council News & Upcoming Meetings

This week in Buckinghamshire:

New Licence for Winslow Bar Sparks Debate Over Noise and Safety

The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee of Buckinghamshire Council met this week to discuss a new premises licence application for Legends, a bar located at 48-50 High Street, Winslow. You can read the full report pack here.

  • The application, submitted by Ray Conrad Marzec, seeks permission to sell alcohol from 6 PM to 11 PM, Monday to Sunday, and to open the premises to the public from 7:30 AM to 11 PM.
  • While the Chief Officer of Police and the Fire and Rescue Authority raised no objections, concerns were voiced by local residents and the Winslow Town Council.
  • Objections centered on the potential for increased crime and disorder, public safety risks, and public nuisance due to noise, particularly from the use of the garden area in the evening.
  • To address these concerns, the applicant agreed to submit a noise management plan, leading the Local Environmental Health Authority to withdraw its initial objection.
  • Proposed conditions for the licence include staff training, adherence to the Challenge 25 policy, an incident log, and a 10 PM curfew for the outdoor garden.
  • The council's Licensing Policy, published in February 2022, emphasizes the importance of high management standards in licensed premises.
  • The Home Office's guidance under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 prioritizes the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The decision on whether to grant the licence will have a direct impact on the Winslow community, potentially affecting the quality of life for residents living near the High Street.

Upcoming Meetings

  • Buckinghamshire Council and Surrey County Council Joint Trading Standards Service Committee on Monday 09 June 2025 will discuss vapes enforcement, the joint service budget, the Official Food Standards and Feed Controls Service Plan, 2024/25 performance, and the Trading Standards Enforcement Policy. Read the agenda here.
  • Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority on Wednesday 11 June 2025 will elect a chair and vice-chair, appoint members to committees, discuss the HMICFRS report, and review performance management. Read the agenda here.
  • Buckinghamshire Shareholder Committee on Wednesday 11 June 2025 will discuss options for Consilio Property Ltd, risk registers and KPI updates, and the forward plan. Read the agenda here.
  • Standards and General Purposes Committee on Thursday 12 June 2025 will discuss the annual review of member code of conduct complaints and review the work programme for the coming year. Read the agenda here.
  • East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee on Tuesday 10 June 2025 will discuss planning applications relating to Rotherfield in Stoke Poges, and Land at Oakmead in Taplow. Read the agenda here.

Bucks Council elects new leader and cabinet for 2025-26

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Buckinghamshire Council - Wednesday 21 May 2025

Buckinghamshire Council held its first meeting since the local elections, marking a transition in leadership and setting the stage for the new council term. Councillor Sarfaraz Khan Raja was elected Chairman, Councillor John Chilver was elected Vice-Chairman, and Councillor Steve Broadbent was elected Leader of the council. Councillor Broadbent then announced his cabinet appointments for 2025-26.

Councillor Mimi Harker OBE, the outgoing Chairman of the Council, reflected on her term, highlighting the importance of community engagement and exemplary behaviour for councillors. She noted the changes in society and technology during her 30 years of service.

Councillor Broadbent was nominated for the position of Leader by Councillor Peter Strachan, who highlighted his skills, competencies, and experience. Councillor Martin Tett, the outgoing Leader, reflected on his 14 years in the role, highlighting key achievements such as the fight against HS2, support for the business community, the creation of Buckinghamshire Council, and the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.

Councillor Broadbent then announced his cabinet appointments for 2025-26:

  • Councillor Peter Strachan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning
  • Councillor Thomas Broom, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport
  • Councillor Ade Osibogun, Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services
  • Councillor Steve Bowles, Cabinet Member for Communities
  • Councillor Isobel Darby, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing
  • Councillor Peter Brazier, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure
  • Councillor Carl Jackson, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment
  • Councillor Mark Winn, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services
  • Councillor Robert Carington, Cabinet Member for Resources

He also announced the following deputy cabinet members:

  • Councillor Peter Martin, Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport (East West Rail, HS2 and Public Transport)
  • Councillor Michael Bracken, Deputy Cabinet Member for Planning (Planning Enforcement)
  • Councillor Jaspal Chhokar, Deputy Cabinet Member for Climate Change Environment and Waste Services (Flooding)
  • Councillor Jilly Jordan, Deputy Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Education (Skills)
  • Councillor Gary Hall, Deputy Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services
  • Councillor Catherine Oliver, Deputy Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure
  • Councillor Ashley Waite, Deputy Cabinet Member for Communities
  • Councillor Carol Heap, Deputy Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing
  • Councillor Julie Ward, Deputy Cabinet Member for Resources (Town Centre Regeneration)

The council agreed to appoint five Select Committees to discharge the council’s statutory overview and scrutiny functions: Children’s and Education Select Committee, Finance and Resources Select Committee, Growth, Infrastructure and Housing Select Committee, Health and Adult Social Care Select Committee, and Transport, Environment, Communities and Climate Change Select Committee.

The council approved the allocation of seats on council committees to political groups, in accordance with proportionality rules. The Monitoring Officer was delegated the authority to vary nominations and agree on lists of proposed substitute nominations, upon written confirmation from a Group Leader. The membership of the High Wycombe Town Committee was noted, and the appointment of councillors to partnerships and outside bodies for 2025/26 was approved.

The council approved the proposed calendar of meetings for Buckinghamshire Council from May 2025. The calendar will be available on the council's website.

High Wycombe Town Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the High Wycombe Town Committee meeting, Councillor Ed Gemmell was elected Chairman of the Committee for the ensuing year. Councillor Darren Hayday proposed Councillor Ed Gemmell for the role, and Councillor Chris Chilton seconded the proposal.

Licensing (Premises) Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Licensing (Premises) Committee meeting, Councillor Heather Wallace was elected as Chairman of the Committee for the ensuing year. Councillor Shade Adoh nominated Councillor Heather Wallace for the position, and Councillor Mazamal Hussain seconded the nomination.

Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Growth, Infrastructure & Housing Select Committee meeting, Councillor Jonathan Waters was elected Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Susan Morgan proposed Councillor Jonathan Waters for the role, and Councillor Chirag Chotai seconded the proposal.

Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee meeting, Councillor Penny Drayton was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Gregory Smith proposed Councillor Penny Drayton for the position, and Councillor Ed Gemmell seconded the proposal.

Standards and General Purposes Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Standards and General Purposes Committee meeting, Councillor Jackson Ng was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor John Chilver proposed Councillor Jackson Ng for the role, and Councillor David Carroll seconded the proposal.

East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee meeting, Councillor David Moore was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Jackson Ng nominated Councillor David Moore for the position, and Councillor Wendy Matthews seconded the proposal.

Licensing (Public Protection) Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Licensing (Public Protection) Committee meeting, Councillor Heather Wallace was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Shade Adoh proposed Councillor Heather Wallace as Chairman, and Councillor Mazamal Hussain seconded the proposal.

Children’s & Education Select Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Children’s & Education Select Committee meeting, Councillor Susan Morgan was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Alan Sherwell proposed Councillor Susan Morgan for the role, and Councillor Niknam Hussain seconded the proposal.

Strategic Sites Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Strategic Sites Committee meeting, Councillor Alex Collingwood was elected Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Phil Gomm proposed the election, and Councillor Andy Huxley seconded it.

West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee meeting, Councillor Mark Turner was elected Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Larisa Townsend proposed Councillor Mark Turner for the position, and Councillor Imran Hussain seconded the proposal.

Audit and Governance Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Audit and Governance Committee meeting, Councillor Matthew Walsh was elected Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Dev Dhillon proposed the election, and Councillor Alex Collingwood seconded it.

Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee meeting, Councillor Patrick Fealey was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Frank Mahon put forward the proposal, and Councillor Phil Gomm seconded it.

Health & Adult Social Care Select Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Health & Adult Social Care Select Committee meeting, Councillor Stuart Wilson was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Robin Stuchbury proposed Councillor Stuart Wilson for the role, and Councillor Julia Wassell seconded the proposal.

Finance & Resources Select Committee - Wednesday 21 May 2025

At the Finance & Resources Select Committee meeting, Councillor John Chilver was elected as Chairman of the Committee. Councillor Dev Dhillon nominated Councillor John Chilver, and Councillor Martin Tett seconded the nomination.

Bucks Council defers decision on Bourne End alcohol licence

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Licensing Sub-committee - Tuesday 22 April 2025

The Buckinghamshire Council Licensing Sub-committee met to discuss an application to vary a premises licence for The Orange Ray, Station Court, Station Road, Bourne End, SL85YP. The applicant, Feastie Beer Co. Ltd, sought a new premises licence for the retail sale of alcohol, both on and off the premises. After hearing from the applicants, objectors, and relevant officers, the sub-committee agreed to defer their decision to a later date.

Licensing application for The Orange Ray, Station Court

Feastie Beer Co. Ltd applied for a new premises licence for The Orange Ray, Station Court, Station Road, Bourne End, SL85YP. The premises is a standalone, single-storey building, formerly an open-plan office, located near residential gardens and a railway line.

Ms Kerry-Anne Ashton, licensing officer, presented the details of the application, noting that the applicant had amended it to remove live and recorded music, as this is covered by deregulation entertainment provisions. The licensable activities sought were the retail sale of alcohol, both on and off the premises, between 11:30 and 21:30 on Mondays and Thursdays, 11:30 to 22:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:30 to 21:30 on Sundays, with an extension to 01:00 on New Year's Eve.

Ms Ashton reported that Thames Valley Police had agreed to some conditions with the applicant, but that Environmental Health had submitted a representation. She also noted that the council had received 48 valid objections, based on concerns about crime and disorder, public safety, public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

Applicant's submission

Mr Judson Williams, one of the applicants, provided background on his company, explaining that he wanted to bring back the British heritage of brewing to the area, as his family had a long history of brewing in Woburn Green. He stated that the premises met all of their criteria, being a business use class E location, and that its proximity to Bourne End railway station was a huge draw. He also noted that they had their own parking for at least nine vehicles and had provided a cycle rack.

Mr Williams said that they had no interest in upsetting any of their neighbours, and that their aim was to provide a community space where they could hopefully bring back a bit of the traditional heritage of the Wubham Green and Wubham Bourne End area.

He clarified that the front of the building would be a shop for their cans and merchandise, the middle section would be somewhere for people to sit and have food, and the rear would be the kitchen and cold storage. He also explained that the licensing hours were designed to attract someone to rent space to provide food, as they did not want to run a kitchen themselves.

Objections

Objectors raised concerns about noise, antisocial behaviour, parking, and public safety.

Ms Shirley Bovan Sombat raised concerns about outside drinking and asked if there was anything in place to discourage it. Mr Williams responded that there was nothing firm in place at the moment, but that they had no plans to use the outdoor space as a pub garden.

Another objector asked about live music, and Mr Stuart Goodman from the council's environmental protection team, explained that due to deregulation of live and recorded music, no specific conditions could be made in regards to those matters through a licence panel such as this.

Noise Management Plan

Mr Goodman explained that he had proposed to the applicant that they adopt a noise management plan, which Mr Williams had produced. Mr Goodman said that he felt that the plan covered and addressed the principal issues in terms of prevention of public nuisance.

Kingsbrook School Plans, HS2 Works, and Local Spending

This week in Buckinghamshire:

Strategic Sites Committee - Wednesday 16 April 2025

The Strategic Sites Committee was scheduled to convene to address planning matters within the Buckinghamshire Council area. Key items for consideration included a retrospective approval for Kingsbrook Primary School, and a planning application related to HS2 works near Wendover.

25/00406/APP - Mogford Chamber, Bridleways, Wendover, HP22 6DN

The committee was scheduled to discuss application 25/00406/APP, concerning the installation of a spring chamber and flow monitoring chamber with associated infrastructure at Mogford Chamber, Bridleways, Wendover, HP22 6DN. The applicant is High Speed Two (HS2) Limited, and the application was called in by three councillors due to its strategic nature and impact on a nationally significant infrastructure project.

The proposal includes the installation of a spring chamber and flow monitoring chamber, associated pipework for HS2 requirements, an attached power box with roof-mounted solar panel, a headwall outflow structure, reprofiling of an existing drainage ditch, stock-proof fencing, an upgrade and extension to an existing access track, and a temporary laydown area for construction.

According to the report pack, the need for the development arises from the necessity to mitigate the effects of groundwater flows resulting from HS2 works to the west of the application site. The Environment Agency requires these measures to prevent a reduction in water levels to the Stoke and Wendover Brook, thereby avoiding a deterioration of the Water Framework Directive.

The council's landscape officer has raised concerns that the proposed development would cause significant harm to the protected Chilterns National Landscape, conflicting with the aims of Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan (VALP) policies NE3 and NE41, as well as the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)2.

The report pack notes that there have been 139 objections received and one petition containing 816 signatures.

24/02285/APP - Kingsbrook Primary School, Armstrongs Fields, Broughton, Buckinghamshire, HP22 7BR

The committee was scheduled to discuss a retrospective application 24/02285/APP for Kingsbrook Primary School, Armstrongs Fields, Broughton, Buckinghamshire, HP22 7BR.

The proposal includes the erection of a 3FE3 (630 place) primary school, a 60-place nursery, and a 12-place Special Educational Needs (SEN) Unit. The development also includes vehicular and pedestrian/cycle access points, staff car parking with electric charging points, drop-off bays, minibus parking, motorcycle parking, cycle storage, a grass sports pitch, an all-weather pitch, a multi-use-games-area (MUGA), trim trails, an external bin store, sports equipment storage, a substation, a sprinkler tank, and associated landscaping and external works.

The Case Officer was scheduled to introduce the report, highlighting updates circulated prior to the meeting. These updates included minor amendments to condition 17 regarding opening times and access to parking and drop-off areas, and re-wording of condition 19 concerning vehicle and pedestrian gate operation during term time.

A verbal update was also to be given regarding draft condition 19, clarifying that gates would be open during school drop-off and pick-up times, with access to parking areas provided through an intercom system during after-school clubs or community use.

Additionally, paragraph 5.35 of the report in the Highways section refers to upgrades to the access being required which related to some raised tables that the Highway Authority considered would be beneficial to increase safety and convenience for parents and children going to the school. However, the applicant was unwilling to provide these improvements, noting that they would be on land not within the control of the applicants or the Highway Authority at this time. The Highway Authority consider that they could not raise an objection if the raised tables are not provided and therefore there is no planning condition recommended on this basis.

Speakers for this item included Councillor Julie Ward, Local Member, and Emily Warner (Agent) and Paula Campbell-Balcombe (Applicant).

North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 16 April 2025

The North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee scheduled a meeting to discuss planning applications and related matters. The meeting was scheduled to consider a variation to the opening hours of a retail convenience store in Edlesborough, and a request to vary conditions relating to a health clinic in Mentmore.

Planning Applications

2 Pebblemoor, Edlesborough

The committee was scheduled to consider a request to vary condition 10 of planning permission 23/02966/APP, which relates to the opening hours of a retail convenience store at 2 Pebblemoor, Edlesborough.

The original planning permission allowed for the change of use of an existing vehicle service garage to a retail convenience store. Condition 10 of that permission restricted the opening hours to between 07:00 and 20:00 daily. The reason given for the restriction was to protect the amenities of the nearby neighbouring properties, in accordance with Policy BE3 of the Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan (adopted September 2021), and the National Planning Policy Framework (2023).

The applicant, NMJ Mortorhouse Ltd, requested that condition 10 be varied to allow the store to open between 07:00 and 22:00 daily.

The application was called in to the committee by Councillor Peter Brazier, Councillor Chris Poll and Councillor Derek Town. Councillor Peter Brazier and Councillor Chris Poll stated that the condition was a significant factor in the original permission being granted, and its variation may have meant refusal of the original application. Councillor Derek Town stated that he was surprised that the application to remove the condition had appeared so soon after the original approval was granted, and that the original approval was granted despite significant objections from local residents.

24 objections to the application had been received, with concerns raised including significant disturbance to neighbouring residential properties, additional noise, traffic and light pollution, the operating hours requested far exceed the normal opening hours of the existing garage, noisy late deliveries, and increased anti-social behaviour.

One letter of support was received, stating that the store would add convenience to locals, and would not be in direct competition with the local shop.

Suite 1, The Old Haybarn, 9 Rosebery Mews, Mentmore

The committee was scheduled to consider a request to vary conditions 2 and 3 relating to planning application 08/02616/APP for Suite 1, The Old Haybarn, 9 Rosebery Mews, Mentmore.

Planning permission 08/02616/APP granted permission for the change of use of part of a unit from Class B1 (Offices) to Class D1 (Health Clinic) use4. Condition 2 stated that the premises shall only be used for osteopath & naturepath purposes, with ancillary pilates studio for rehabilitation purposes, and for no other purpose(s) including any other purpose in Class D1 of the Schedule to the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 or in any provision equivalent to that Class in any statutory instrument revoking or re-enacting that Order with or without modification.

Condition 3 stated that the premises shall not be used for the purposes hereby permitted except between the hours of 8 am and 6pm on Mondays to Fridays, 8am and 1pm on Saturdays and at no time on Sundays, Public and Bank Holidays.

The applicant, M & J Gaymer, requested that conditions 2 and 3 be varied to enable the use of part of the ground floor of the building for osteopathy, physiotherapy and reformer pilates, and to extend the hours of operation until 8pm on Mondays to Fridays.

The application was called in to the committee by Councillor Chris Poll, Councillor Derek Town and Councillor Peter Brazier. The reasons given for calling the application in to committee centred upon concerns relating to: traffic and parking, impact on the residential amenities of neighbouring properties, the application challenging the original application outcome and the proposal being in an unsustainable location.

A number of objections were received, with concerns raised including extending the hours to 8pm would result in traffic movements at an unsociable time, increased traffic would be dangerous to children and animals, The Old Haybarn is in a conservation area and the rest of Mentmore village is a peaceful residential setting, and The Haybarn is only accessible by road and is not accessible by public transport.

Finance and Resources Select Committee - Thursday 17 April 2025

The Finance and Resources Select Committee were scheduled to meet on Thursday 17 April 2025 to discuss the Customer First Annual Report 2024, review the work programme for 2020-2025, and receive an update on the ICT ONE and AURA programmes. The meeting was also scheduled to include an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions.

Customer First Annual Report 2024

The committee was scheduled to receive a report on the progress of the Customer First corporate priority, and the Customer First Annual Report 2024.

The Customer First initiative is described as a comprehensive programme aimed at embedding a customer-centric culture throughout Buckinghamshire Council. The stated vision is to ensure that every employee values, owns, and exemplifies a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

The Customer First programme has three stated goals: easy access for customers to get in touch, helpful service that gets things right first time, and fair and honest communication.

The report pack states that Buckinghamshire Council aims to design customer journeys that cater to different groups, including intuitive digital processes, telephone services, and face-to-face support at Council Access Points (CAPs).

The council is also working to address digital exclusion by enhancing the accessibility of its website, offering digital skills courses, and working on projects to improve broadband coverage in rural areas.

The Customer Service Centre (CSC) has reportedly met its objectives concerning call answer rates, call abandonment, and resolution on the first call. The report pack notes a steady increase in First Call Resolution rates, reaching 88% in February 2025. Key components of this improved performance are cited as investment in staff training, collaborative work with colleagues in service areas, and the development of technical assets, particularly the new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system Abavus.

The Customer Partnership Panel has also been providing feedback from volunteer residents, and workshops have focused on adult social care and website effectiveness.

The implementation of a single CRM system is intended to enable more efficient management of customer interactions, and the migration is expected to be completed by summer 2025.

Efforts to combat fly-tipping included the introduction of a form for residents to upload dashcam footage. Citizens Advice Bucks has been commissioned to support those struggling with debt, and the Fostering Relationship Team was established to enhance the recruitment and retention of foster carers.

Looking ahead to 2025, the focus will be on AI and digital advancements, with opportunities arising from 'Creativity Camps' during the 'Year of Creativity'. The Customer Contact Excellence Programme (CCXP) aims to better manage customer demand and improve customer experience by introducing AI across various contact platforms.

Review of the Work Programme 2020-2025

The committee was scheduled to note the review of the work programme 2020-2025 and note any items going forward to the next council term.

The Finance and Resources Select Committee holds decision-makers to account for outcomes and services for Buckinghamshire. The Select Committee covers the following portfolio areas: the Leader; Financial Strategy, Economic Development, Skills & Employability, Strategic Infrastructure, County Deal, Levelling Up, Policy & Communications, Accessible Housing and Resources : Delivery of Accessible Housing, Property and Assets, Agricultural Estate, Property Management, Property Rationalisation, Customer services, Website Development & digital Strategy, HR & People Strategy, ICT delivery, Business Operations, Legal and Democratic Services, Corporate finance & performance, Procurement, Better Buckinghamshire Programme5.

The committee meets five times a year in a formal meeting setting, and also undertakes an in-depth inquiry into the council’s draft revenue budget and capital programme each year.

Key topics considered by the select committee during the 2020-2025 period include: Cabinet Member Priorities, Office Environment, Property Assets, Section 1066 and Community Infrastructure Levy7, Staffing, Unitary Transition Review, Customer First, Worksmart Strategy, Better Buckinghamshire, Property Strategy, Update on External Property Companies, Lessons learnt from other authorities, Corporate Performance Indicators, Employee experience, Council tax and business rates, Treasury management investment, Work smart estates strategy, Management of absence and wellbeing, Agency spend, Energy from waste, ICT One Programme and AURA, Absence management, Estates Strategy, External Property companies, Customer First, Capital Programme Temporary Accommodation, Home to School Transport, Better Buckinghamshire Programme, People Plan, Direct Services Grant, Estates Strategy Programme, and Debt performance.

Update on the ICT ONE Programme and AURA

The Select Committee was scheduled to receive an update on the progress of the ICT ONE Programme and AURA Programme. No further details were provided in the report pack.


  1. The Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan (VALP) was adopted in September 2021 and sets out the vision, objectives, and planning policies for Aylesbury Vale. 

  2. The National Planning Policy Framework is a framework produced by the UK government to guide local planning authorities in creating planning policies. 

  3. 'Form Entry' - the number of pupils admitted to a school in a particular year group. A 3FE school has 3 'forms' of 30 pupils each, so 90 pupils per year group. 

  4. The Use Class Order is a statutory instrument that defines different categories of land use for planning purposes. 

  5. The Better Buckinghamshire Programme was a council initiative aimed at transforming services and saving money through various means, including digital transformation and asset rationalisation. 

  6. Section 106 agreements are legal agreements between local authorities and developers, used to mitigate the impact of new developments on the community and infrastructure. 

  7. The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a charge which can be levied by local authorities on new developments in their area. The money is used to fund a wide range of infrastructure improvements. 

Recent meetings
Committee

Standards and General Purposes Committee - Thursday, 12th June, 2025 1.00 pm

The Standards and General Purposes Committee met on Thursday 12 June 2025, and appointed Councillor Kelly Thornton as Vice-Chairman. The committee reviewed the annual report on the Member Code of Conduct complaints for 2024/25, and noted the work programme for the coming year.

June 12, 2025
Committee

Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority - Wednesday, 11th June, 2025 11.00 am

The Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority scheduled an annual meeting to elect a chair and vice-chair, appoint committee members, and discuss performance and planning. The meeting was also scheduled to cover committee membership, lead member responsibilities, and a review of the Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) following an inspection by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

June 11, 2025
Committee

Buckinghamshire Shareholder Committee - Wednesday, 11th June, 2025 2.00 pm

The Buckinghamshire Shareholder Committee met to discuss the annual report, forward plan, and risk registers of its subsidiary companies. Councillors also intended to discuss options for Consilio Property Ltd. and review the committee's terms of reference.

June 11, 2025
Committee

East & South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Tuesday, 10th June, 2025 2.30 pm

The East and South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met to discuss a variation to a previously approved planning application in Stoke Poges, and a retrospective application for the retention of two agricultural buildings in Taplow. The committee refused the application for a variation of condition relating to a property in Stoke Poges, and approved the retrospective application in Taplow. Councillor Jonathan Waters was appointed as Vice Chairman of the committee.

June 10, 2025
Surrey County Council site

Buckinghamshire Council and Surrey County Council Joint Trading Standards Service Committee - Monday, 9 June 2025 1.30 pm

Here is a summary of the scheduled discussions for the Buckinghamshire Council and Surrey County Council Joint Trading Standards Service Committee meeting on 9 June 2025. The agenda included a review of the joint service budget, the Official Food Standards and Feed Controls Service Plan, an update on vapes enforcement, and the Trading Standards Enforcement Policy, alongside performance and forward planning. The meeting was scheduled to take place at the Council Chamber, Woodhatch Place, Reigate.

June 09, 2025
Committee

Legends, 48-50 High Street, Winslow, Buckingham, MK18 3HB (Application), Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee - Thursday, 5th June, 2025 2.30 pm

The Buckinghamshire Council Licensing Premises Sub-committee met to discuss an application for a new premises licence for Legends, a café located at 48-50 High Street, Winslow, Buckingham. The sub-committee heard from the applicant, considered objections, and ultimately agreed to grant the licence, subject to conditions and the implementation of a noise management plan.

June 05, 2025
Committee CANCELLED

Strategic Sites Committee - Thursday, 5th June, 2025 2.30 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

June 05, 2025
Committee CANCELLED

West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Wednesday, 4th June, 2025 6.30 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

June 04, 2025
Committee

Finance & Resources Select Committee - Wednesday, 21st May, 2025 4.00 pm

The Buckinghamshire Council Finance & Resources Select Committee convened on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, and elected Councillor John Chilver as Chairman for the ensuing year.

May 21, 2025
Committee

(Annual Meeting), Council - Wednesday, 21st May, 2025 4.00 pm

Buckinghamshire Council convened for its first meeting since the local elections, during which Councillor Sarfaraz Khan Raja was elected as the new Chairman, and Councillor John Chilver was elected as Vice-Chairman. Councillor Steve Broadbent was elected as the Leader of the council, and he announced his cabinet appointments for the year. The council also approved the proposed structure for select committees and made appointments to various committees, partnerships, and outside bodies.

May 21, 2025
Upcoming meetings
Unknown Committee

Cabinet - Tuesday, 17th June, 2025 10.00 am

June 17, 2025
Unknown Committee

Licensing (Premises) Committee - Tuesday, 17th June, 2025 6.30 pm

June 17, 2025
Unknown Committee

Licensing (Public Protection) Committee - Tuesday, 17th June, 2025 6.30 pm

June 17, 2025
Unknown Committee

Children’s & Education Select Committee - Thursday, 19th June, 2025 2.00 pm

June 19, 2025
Unknown Committee

The Garibaldi, 11-17 High Street, Burnham, Slough, SL1 7JB (Application), Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee - Thursday, 19th June, 2025 10.30 am

June 19, 2025
Unknown Committee

Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel - Friday, 20th June, 2025 10.30 am

June 20, 2025
Unknown Committee

High Wycombe Town Committee - Tuesday, 24th June, 2025 7.00 pm

June 24, 2025
Unknown Committee

Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee - Tuesday, 24th June, 2025 10.00 am

June 24, 2025
Unknown Committee

Pension Fund Committee - Tuesday, 24th June, 2025 2.00 pm

June 24, 2025
Unknown Committee

Central & North Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee - Wednesday, 25th June, 2025 2.30 pm

June 25, 2025