CGR_H

Parishes Affected

Wootton

Matter to be considered

A review of the parish name to reflect the settlement of Boars Hill

Impact on district and county council boundaries

None

Summary of responses to the draft proposal consultation

These are set out in the engagement summary document.  

Recommendation

To make no change to the name of the parish.

Justification for final recommendation

At its meeting on 26 May 2022, the committee agreed to consult on the proposed name change. In doing so the committee noted that the initial engagement exercise showed support for the proposal and agreed to assess the extent of support or otherwise for the proposal and the impact on the identity and interests of the community.

61.59% of those who responded to the consultation oppose the proposal.

Whilst the name change would serve to better reflect the communities within the area of the parish, it is the case that the area known as Boars Hill covers a number of parishes. A name change, whilst seeking to improve community identity within the area, would be misleading. Many rural parishes do not include the details of each hamlet or community in their name but still achieve community identity.