Bradworthy's relative isolation and uniqueness is important to 88% of respondents (Q.1). The same percentage felt its wildlife and beautiful countryside to be a distinct advantage to the area (Q.5).
A load of cables blight the skyline
Although Bradworthy is not rich in footpaths and bridleways, they are regularly used by 36% of respondents, while almost 37% of people never use them (Q.6).
There was a high level of support for all aspects of waste reduction and recycling.
87% were prepared to use the recycling pavilion or other recycling point and 68% would compost kitchen and garden waste. Only 51% were willing to cut down on waste by refusing containers and packaging, but 82% would separate different types of waste for collection by the refuse collection service (Q.16).
' Nurture local flora and fauna, reinstate hedges, plant more woodlands '
This concern for the environment extended into the changes people would like to see in Bradworthy. 46% very much wanted more organic farming in the parish and 24% would quite like to see this happening.
33% would like to use wind power to produce electricity (Q.17). A more recent survey, however, revealed 95% opposed wind farms being sited near Bradworthy.
59% of respondents would very much, while 20% would quite like to have the overhead electricity cables in the village buried underground.
There was some anxiety about increasing tourism, with 45% prepared to see a little more tourism here, while 30% rejected the idea altogether (Q.17).
' There is a need for more organic farming and the sale of such produce locally '
Recommendations
General
We should encourage care for the natural environment and support schemes, such as community woodlands or pond creation, which protect or enhance it and which provide habitat for wildlife.
Such work could be undertaken by local groups and organisations, following the lead set, for example, by the Guides in keeping the village clear of litter and by the Primary School with it's 'Eco-Schools' involvement.
Waste disposal is a problem for some
Organic farming experts from Elm Farm Research Centre and elsewhere should be invited to address a public meeting about converting land to organic status for those farmers who may be interested in this option.
Local food production should be encouraged and supported, particularly organically grown produce such as that provided in weekly 'Veg. Boxes' delivered by Holsworthy Organics and others.
Bradworthy has a unique environment and society that probably does not exist anywhere else in Britain, and as such, needs to be kept that way
Considerable funding is available from Devon County Council under the Local Food Links Scheme for those wishing to establish a local market garden. This business opportunity should be publicised through the 'Bradworthy News', local press and posters.
' Our natural beauty is an advantage to the heart not the wallet '
For a number of years the Chairlady of the parish council sported a private dung heap!
Footpaths
Footpaths should be properly maintained, initially using funding secured under the P3 Partnership Scheme. The Parish Council should encourage landowners to welcome walkers and maintain footpaths on their land.
' There must be more footpaths and bridleways and off-road cycle tracks '
A Parish Map should be created for display in the Square, with footpaths clearly marked and information on local history, wildlife and places of interest.
Although there is some anxiety over increasing tourism in the area, a few more walkers and cyclists would have minimal impact. Interesting route leaflets could be produced for sale in local shops to walkers and cyclists.
' Route maps should be available '
A surfaced footpath could be created along the edge of the playing field to provide a safe route for those walking to school
Waste
With many more people recycling waste, the pavilion in Mill Road could be supplemented by a second pavilion, which could also take clothing. One possible site suggested was on the land at the far end of Ford Close.
' Please keep them well trimmed, clear and open '
Perhaps a recycling pick-up service could be made available for those who cannot get into the village.
' There must be disabled access '
A publicity campaign could be used to encourage people to use strongly made reusable shopping bags instead of plastic carriers and to avoid over packaged goods, thus minimising waste.
' If paths were more useable, they would be used more often! '
Leaflets on making compost and worm composting bins will be produced to encourage home composting of organic waste for use on the garden.
' We need to recycle cards and cardboard '
If a small piece of land could be found, a community composting centre could be created to which parishioners could bring woody hedge trimmings and branches for natural composting in large heaps. Use of a shredder would provide wood chippings for use on paths and as mulch. Fully composted material would be bagged and made available to parishioners. Free poop-scoops and bags could be made available to overcome the problem of dog fouling.
' Dog fouling must be eliminated '
Energy
Possible sources of funding should be located for re-siting underground, the overhead electricity cables in the village.
Avenues for using wind to provide cheap local electricity should be explored.
Perhaps Bradworthy could follow Holsworthy's lead in building a small heat and power plant powered by local slurry. Contact should be made with the Holsworthy Committee on the bio-digester.
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