Aims and policies
Alvechurch is a village with a cluster of distinct and separate communities within its Parish (Hopwood, Rowney Green, Weatheroak and Bordesley). AVS aims are based on the following principles.
Housing & commercial development
All commercial and housing developments (affordable or market) should satisfy the policies of previous County Structure and District Local Plans (where still applicable) and current Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks. They should be on Brownfield sites and Areas of Development Restraint (ADRs), not in the Green Belt. They should be sustainable, reflect the proven needs of the local community and not be detrimental to the village concept.
New development and significant property extensions should conform to the Village Design Statement and its continuing updates, adopted by Bromsgrove District Council and Alvechurch Parish Council in 2000/01. All existing buildings of historical significance or special interest should be protected.
Services and amenities
Amenities
Alvechurch should have the amenities normally associated with a village with a population of about 5,000 ie doctors surgery, pharmacy, post office, general store, butcher, greengrocer, newsagent and Village Hall or similar meeting places. There should be no retail parks or supermarkets normally associated with towns or cities. AVS specifically promotes the use of local shops and will encourage them to follow Fair Trade principles.
Education services and youth facilities
Alvechurch should have schools to cater for children up to a minimum age of 11 and appropriate recreational and drop-in facilities for all those under 18.
Emergency services
There should be adequate policing for the whole community and easily accessible Accident and Emergency and maternity services in Redditch.
Public transport and traffic management
The transport infrastructure should be appropriate for the village, recognising its commuting potential to neighbouring conurbations. There should be adequate and secure parking near to the village centre and at the railway station, and regular, reliable train and bus services. AVS supports all attempts to reduce traffic speeds and inconsiderate parking throughout the Parish.
Environment
Public open space
Alvechurch should retain its existing green spaces and sports grounds and every opportunity should be taken to create green spaces to replace land lost to development.
Footpaths and rights of way
Public footpaths and rights of way within the Parish should be protected and adequately maintained.
Litter
The concept of a clean Parish should be encouraged at all times. AVS will support and promote all local recycling initiatives.
Collaboration and community engagement
AVS will work actively with the Parish Council, Local Authorities, Residents' Associations and community forums, with cross-representation wherever possible. AVS will encourage Parish residents to take an active interest in the welfare and security of their local community.
April 2010