"The Parish Council has the job of helping to maintain the village we love to live in"
Heath and Reach is a charming village steeped in history with an optimistic future on the horizon. Ideally situated near London, Cambridge, and Milton Keynes, the village proudly preserves its conservation status and features a variety of historic buildings.
Our lower school has earned an outstanding Ofsted rating, and the high-performing upper schools further ensure that generations of children excel academically. The sense of community is vibrant, with the traditional village barn serving as a hub for diverse activities such as fitness classes and wine tastings.
Our working quarries have gained recognition as filming locations for productions like The Mummy and various war dramas. Furthermore, Bryants Lane offers a fitness club, a trim trail, and all-weather courts for football and tennis.
As the Heath and Reach Parish Council, we are dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the village that we all cherish. We invite you to explore our website and uncover the unique qualities that make this place special to so many.
Cllr. Chris Reading.
Heath and Reach Parish Council
April 2026
Chairman’s Annual Report
It is a privilege to present this Annual Report for the Heath & Reach Parish Council and to reflect on my first year serving as Chairman. Over the past twelve months, I have gained a deep appreciation of the important role the Parish Council plays in representing our community, addressing local issues, and working constructively to improve and maintain the beauty and character of the village for generations to come.
This year has been rewarding and instructive, and I would like to record my sincere thanks to my fellow Parish Councillors. Their commitment, experience and willingness to give their time voluntarily has been invaluable. I am particularly grateful for the support and guidance offered to me as a new Chairman, and for the collaborative way in which councillors have worked together in the best interests of Heath & Reach. I would also like to thank our Clerk for her professionalism and hard work throughout the year.
As this report demonstrates, the Parish Council has continued to be active and engaged across a range of matters affecting the village. I am proud of what has been achieved collectively and look forward to building on this solid foundation in the year ahead.
This past year has seen the Parish Council dedicate itself to key responsibilities such as maintaining parish facilities, overseeing planning issues, and engaging actively with residents. We have held regular meetings to keep projects on track, review our finances, and respond promptly to public concerns.
We continue to manage finances carefully, keeping spending within budget.
Engagement with local residents has remained a priority. April 25 saw the distribution of the newsletter, which was well received. More recently an information sheet was distributed to all addresses, with a short survey asking residents how funds held could be used in the future. After reviewing the results, the Parish Council requested that CBC prepare a feasibility design for a potential crossing on Woburn Road. This would enhance resident safety, particularly for schoolchildren, amid rising traffic. Speed Watch initiatives continue to monitor traffic and encourage safer driving throughout the parish, run by volunteers, for which we are very grateful.
In May, VE Day 80th celebrations were held to remember those who fell during WW1 & WW2. It brought the community together, enjoying a 1940’s themed party with music, food & games.
In November the Heath Barn Birds WI contributed beautifully to our community, with their poppy display on The Pumphouse and The Green.
Festive cheer was brought to the village with the Christmas lights, which once again lit up The Pumphouse to the delight of residents and visitors alike.
The collision of a car into The Millennium Gardens was handled quickly for public safety, and repairs to the damaged hedge and plants are ongoing.
The Clock Tower received attention, with worn pulleys refurbished to preserve its heritage and function.
Donations supported local groups by providing new signs for toad patrol, storage for the Little Fishes Toddler Group, and a conditional offer to St Leonards School’s community garden fund, pending their own fundraising.
The Co-op, or Nisa as it is now known, was successfully re-registered with CBC as a community asset.
Looking ahead, the Parish Council remains committed to serving the community. We’ll continue to tackle local issues, support parish projects, and foster cooperation among residents.
Thank you to all the parishioners, for your ongoing support. The Parish Council meetings are open to all and we need your ongoing engagement and challenge to ensure that we are focussed on the matters that are the most important to you and to the village. We are committed to continue working on local issues, supporting projects, and encouraging community cooperation.
