Cc: Jon Winstanley Jon.Winstanley@westberks.gov.uk
From: Pete murray
Vice Chair, Cold Ash Parish Council
Dear Jon and FOI Officer,
I am writing in my capacity as Vice Chair of Cold Ash Parish Council to submit a formal Freedom of Information Act request, alongside an urgent request for clarification, following observed activity within and around the flood retention basins linked to the proposed CA12 development site, specifically those near Henwick Lane.
Over the past 48 hours, local observers and our Flood Warden have witnessed what appears to be substantial site activity at or near the basin — involving multiple personnel, survey-type equipment, and logistical coordination. Based on this, we respectfully request the following information:
FOI Request:
Who is carrying out the surveying or investigation work at or around the Henwick Lane flood retention basins?
Please confirm whether this activity is being conducted by West Berkshire Council, the Environment Agency, the proposed developer (or their consultants), or another third party.
What is the scope and purpose of the work currently underway?
Please provide any available documentation outlining the intended goals, funding source, and responsible body for the work.
On what legal or land ownership basis is this activity being permitted on the flood basin site?
From our understanding, supported by previous FOI disclosures, the land in question is not owned by WBC and remains under private ownership. Can you clarify:
Whether WBC is Still in negotiations with the landowner and if there is an agreed timescale to these discussions?
Whether permission has been granted for access and works?
Whether any compulsory purchase discussions or other legal arrangements are underway?
Are there any agreements, memorandums of understanding, or private arrangements linked to the CA12 application or land use which might explain this activity?
This is of great interest to CAPC given ours, the Environment Agency’s formal objection to the site’s proposed development and over one hundred letters of objection as well as the apparent ongoing strategic significance of the land for flood storage.
We ask these questions with urgency and in good faith. Cold Ash Parish Council — and the residents we represent — are trying to understand the nature and intent of this work?
Many thanks in advance
Best regards