![Chairman's letter logo](https://hawkhurst-pc.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/chairmans-letter-845x321.jpg)
Chairman’s Letter March 2023
Hello!
I would like to draw your attention to the Feedback Statement produced by the NDP Steering Group following the Visioning Event on 14th January. I do not think it will come as any surprise to learn that the top three issues identified on the day were: congestion at the crossroads, healthcare facilities and the loss of
agricultural landscape and woodland. The Feedback Statement is available on the NDP Hawkhurst Facebook page, where you will find the rest of the top 10 issues.
In light of this, I am delighted to let you know that The Woodland Trust has recently bought 38 hectares (94 acres) of arable farmland and ancient woodland shaws off Stream Lane. I was fortunate to be invited to a Stakeholder day at the start of March, which proved extremely interesting.
The Woodland Trust intends to create a new woodland and woody landscape. This year, the focus will be on carrying out baseline surveys for the flora and fauna already present on the site, in addition to designing a tree planting scheme in keeping with the site’s position in the High Weald AONB.
Looking ahead, the Parish Council has a small working group that is very busy planning events for the Coronation weekend. Keep an eye out for more information over the coming weeks.
The Annual Parish Assembly will also take place in May. We still need to firm up the final arrangements, but details will be available on our website and noticeboards shortly.
Wishing you all a Happy Easter,
Clare Escombe
Chairman, Hawkhurst Parish Council