Electoral Review for Milton Keynes
After studying the draft proposals for new ward boundaries for Milton Keynes, I feel I must strongly object to the proposals being put forward by the Boundary Commission.
I am deeply concerned about the effect of these proposals on my own ward of Campbell Park and feel the proposed arrangements would in fact separate communities rather than bring them closer together.
It is true that Oldbrook has good connections with Central Milton Keynes. However Central Milton Keynes, which is largely a business district, acts as a barrier to the estates to the north. Oldbrook would be isolated from the other residential estates if the proposed CMK ward became a reality.
Oldbrook has far closer links with neighbouring Fishermead. The two estates are joined by a single Boulevard running right through the centre. Residents from both estates share the use of shops, schools and churches. The parking issues described in your report, referring to Bradwell Common and Conniburrow, have also been present in Oldbrook and Fishermead. In fact, a parking scheme has recently been put in place in Oldbrook to deal with this issue.
It is also important to note that a strong relationship exists between Oldbrook and Fishermead, made stronger by their presence within Campbell Park Parish. In fact I would argue Oldbrook and Fishermead have a symbiotic relationship, with community leaders in both estates being heavily involved in local events.
I am also concerned that the proposed Woughton & Fishermead ward, would result in Fishermead being isolated from the rest of its ward. Fishermead has no relationship with neighbouring Eaglestone. Your report states that there are good transport links between the two estates. However this is incorrect. It is not possible to drive directly to Eaglestone from Fishermead. This is in stark contrast to Fishermead and Oldbrook, which share a boulevard.
Fishermead also has a very strong relationship with Central Milton Keynes. Many Fishermead residents are dependent on CMK Market, located nearby. In fact the residents of Fishermead were instrumental in keeping CMK market open, when its future was threatened by a proposed retail development.
The proposal for an Old Woughton & Campbell Park ward, appears bizarre. I can not imagine how difficult it would be to be a councillor for this ward. Many of the estates, even many neighbouring estates, have no relationship with one another. Again, I am concerned Springfield would become isolated in such a ward. Springfield has a very close relationship with Fishermead, with Springfield residents often making use of Fishermead’s churches, shops and its playing field.
It is also worth noting that the proposals put forward would mean Campbell Park Parish boundaries would stretch across 4 wards, served by 12 councillors. I don’t believe this would encourage a strong relationship between Milton Keynes Council and Campbell Park Parish Council.
I would recommend the Boundary Commission considers a CMK ward, which includes Central Milton Keynes East and West, Oldbrook, Fishermead and Springfield. This arrangement would keep communities together and would best serve local residents.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr Paul Williams
Campbell Park Ward
Milton Keynes Council
Serving the residents of Oldbrook, Fishermead, Springfield, Woolstone and CMK.
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