The Cookham Plan

Findings and Recommendations

Environment and Land Group

2. SUMMARY

The main reasons given for living in Cookham in the questionnaire are that it is a pleasant semi rural environment in a convenient geographical location. 99% of respondents wish it to remain so with strictly limited increase in housing stock, and 96% agree that that the undeveloped open spaces should be protected from development. Clearly then the environment and changes to it are a very important part of The Cookham Plan

We envisage Cookham Parish as a walkable Parish - the public access rights to which we aim to protect and extend.

We see the countryside as a bio-diverse place which we aim to nourish through a continuing programme.

We identify the uncertainties of climate, public needs and usage, and land use as likely challenges to conservation that require monitoring and a community response.

We recommend the development of an enhanced knowledge base and seek increased local empowerment, collaboration with local champions and a ready access to expertise.

The extent and quality of Cookham public open space are widely recognised highly enjoyed and held in great affection.

Our main concern is for Commons and Public Open space within the rural landscape and the associated rights of public access to footpaths and registered commons and other land.

We admire the achievements of many individual champions whose work we aim to facilitate.

We identified the main issues to include

• the vulnerability of land to encroachment due to its high value

• the wear-and-tear of land

• communication with and by the main actors

• speed of bureaucratic response and remote government

• preparing for an uncertain future

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