Elsenham Report 2007

Population:-

The population of Elsenham has not drastically increased since 2007.

Building:-

The local Parish Council continues in its opposition to building outside of the “Village Envelope.” The outcome of the proposal to build between Elsenham Railway Station & Henham although anticipated at the end of 2007, has still not been announced. Indeed following the District Council’s extremely contentious decision to support “option 4” an estate of 3000-5000 homes, things are very murky indeed.

The support from the District Council of this option was followed rapidly by the Government putting Elsenham on the “short-list” for an Eco-Town! The District Council have opposed the Eco-Town. Sadly some of their arguments in support of option 4 are being used as support for the Eco-Town. A joint Parish Council(s) fighting fund has been formed principally comprising of Elsenham,Henham,Stansted & Ugley. Thousands of pounds have been donated by residents from these villages. Henham & Elsenham Parish Councils have also set aside funds from their precepts. The outcome of the “LimeHouse Consultation” (option 4) will not be known to later in 2008 or early 2009. The decision on the Eco-town could come earlier.

Parish Council:-

The Council has Minutes of the past year & from its conception available. Stewart Pimlett has completed his first, very busy, year as Chairman and was re-elected at the recent Annual Parish Meeting.

Internal Publications:-

“The Elsenham News,” continues to be published and distributed free to all residents. The Elsenham Village Web-Site has been joined by a Web-Site entirely devoted to the “Save our Village” campaign. The latter is in opposition to the Eco-Town.

Local Clubs and Organisations:-

The list of clubs and organisations is identical to that of 2007. Apart from the sad demise of the “Senior Circle.”This club had run for many years and had catered for the “not so younger” members of the village. The numbers had dropped somewhat, this was coupled with the inability to find committee members. The “Friday Luncheon Club,” which met fortnightly in the Community Centre will continue at present, being staffed by volunteers... This offers a chat and a cheap cooked meal.

History.

The photographic records of the Village continue to grow. Recent and older pictures are added when they become available. The folders of photos, CDs etc are the property of Elsenham Parish Council, although held in safe keeping by the History Recorder. The “Senior Citizens” scrapbooks will be passed to the Recorder. Research for local genealogists continues.