Our mission statement
The Hunsdon, Eastwick, and Gilston Neighbourhood Plan Group (HEGNPG) plays a crucial role in shaping and overseeing the Gilston Area development, to ensure it aligns with community values and sustainable development principles. After successfully completing the award winning Gilston Area Neighbourhood Plan (GANP), the HEGNPG continues to jointly represent the two directly affected Parish Councils of Hunsdon and Eastwick & Gilston. It seeks to coordinate engagement with developers, Places for People and Taylor Wimpey, and local authorities, especially East Herts Council.
The HEGNPG is involved in reviewing planning applications and master plans for the proposed villages, ensuring they meet the expectations of Local Plan policy and the GANP. Our primary goals are to advocate for high standards in urban design, proper and timely infrastructure, environmental responsibility and community-focused planning.
We believe we have influenced the quality of green space and community land, promoted biodiversity and landscape integration, and continue to press for better interface with the existing communities, sustainable transport solutions, and “village master planning” principles where each village within the development retains distinct features. Additionally, we will actively monitor the agreements related to infrastructure, affordable housing, and the long-term governance of community assets.
In summary, the HEGNPG acts as a voice for residents, holding developers accountable to promises for the delivery of a sustainable, high-quality development that respects both local heritage and environmental goals. Through this active oversight, we aim to be the voice of the two directly affected Parish Councils and so keep the development aligned with the community’s hopes and aspirations and ensure it remains adaptable to future needs.
The members of the Hunsdon, Eastwick and Gilston Neighbourhood Plan Group are:
- Anthony Bickmore (Group Chairman)
- Janine Bryant (Eastwick & Gilston Parish Councillor)
- Linda Harvey (Eastwick & Gilston Parish Councillor)
- Alison Jackson (Reverend at St Mary’s, Gilston)
- Mike Newman
- Mark Orson (Eastwick & Gilston Parish Councillor)
- Frank O’Shea (Hunsdon Parish Councillor)
- Bob Toll (Hunsdon Parish Councillor)
- Mayer Nissim (Secretary and Communications Lead)
We’re all happy to answer any questions you may have about the Neighbourhood Plan and the group, and also to hear any of your suggestions
We’d also be very grateful for offers of support and willingness to contribute. Any of the team can be contacted via our Contact page.