Shepperton Residents Association

By Carl Phillips

Currently, Shepperton Residents’ Association is continuing in the process of assessing some important changes regarding subscription cost and a more convenient method of collecting subs. We have also taken further steps in the possibility of setting up a Facebook page. Since any Facebook page will need administering, we are asking if anyone – among our residents – would like to take on this job, voluntarily. If so, please call me – Carl Phillips - on 07850 722379. We can discuss it!!

A variety of Platinum Jubilee events went well in Shepperton, particularly the River Pageant, organized by Councillor Leighton and colleagues. Over 120 different boats, canoes, paddleboards and skiffs provided a colourful spectacle on the afternoon / evening of Thursday 2nd June. It was a fabulous and joyous sight! The Greeno Centre also had a very successful lunch during the Jubilee week. Over 100 turned up (including councillors) for great food and entertainment in the afternoon. Well done to those who made that happen!! In addition to group events, like these, there were a number of enthusiastic street parties that took place all over Shepperton, particularly on Sunday 5th June, where the weather (just about) stayed dry!! The High Street did a great trade in Jubilee paraphernalia; bunting, flags, crockery and cutlery. They all seemed to sell out over the weekend. Well done to all those residents who used our High Street shops for these items. And it seemed that our pubs and restaurants had a busy time as well, all getting in the buoyant mood of the Queen’s Jubilee. The Summer Fair was back and the Raft Race too, having had a two year pandemic break. Another bumper crowd enjoyed all the rides, shows and stalls which were back as usual. Pictures of all these festivities are elsewhere in this edition. On current planning issues, Ken Snaith gives a brief update as follows: Shepperton Studios : As residents will see travelling along Shepperton Road, steelwork has started to be erected for the new buildings in the studios expansion on the South side of the River Ash. A further application, in line with the original outline application and reserved matters, is to be submitted to convert the existing surface car park, North of Studios Road, into another multi-storey car park. On a separate issue, a new planning application has been submitted for 34 dwellings in Manor Farm, Charlton Road, Charlton Village. The details are vague at present but previous applications for developments on this land were refused. Watch this space!

Finally, as I said earlier, it was good to see the High Street being so busy in the lead-up and during the celebrations – especially our locals – butchers, greengrocers, bakers, card shop and homecare / DIY and supermarkets. Thanks to all of you for giving them your support. Although the Jubilee has now passed, please, please don’t forget our wonderful High Street. Many local villages would wish they had a similar one. But we do have ours! Keep it alive … It’s down to every one of us to use it and as often as we can. Think of all the car fuel you will save by shopping local!!