A tranquil Buckinghamshire village has become the centre of a heated dispute, pitting the local Women's Institute against its own neighbours. The WI's ambitious plan to build a modern community hall complete with a swimming pool and hot tub has sparked fears of late-night noise and a 'party house' atmosphere, leading to a formal objection with the council.
A Vision for a Modern Community Hub
The Bledlow Ridge Women's Institute has submitted a planning application to replace their current, ageing hall with a new, state-of-the-art facility. Their vision includes a main hall for events, a smaller meeting room, a modern kitchen, and—most controversially—an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor hot tub. The institute argues that the new building will be a vital asset for the entire community, offering a space for fitness classes, social gatherings, and family activities.
Neighbours Voice 'Party House' Fears
However, the proposal has not been welcomed by all. Direct neighbours have lodged a formal objection with Buckinghamshire Council, expressing serious concerns. They worry that the combination of a bar licence, a pool, and a hot tub will transform the building from a community hall into a commercial-style 'party house'.
Key concerns raised by the objectors include:
- Noise Pollution: Fears of loud music and chatter from evening events, especially from patrons using the outdoor hot tub.
- Loss of Privacy: The two-storey design and outdoor facilities are seen as a direct threat to the privacy of adjacent homes.
- Parking and Traffic: Concerns that larger events will overwhelm the limited parking and narrow country lanes.
- Character of the Area: Some argue the modern design is out of keeping with the rural village setting.
WI Defends Plans for Future Generations
In response, the Women's Institute has strongly defended its application. A spokesperson for the group stated that the objections are based on misconceptions. They emphasise that the primary purpose of the facility remains community-focused and that the pool and hot tub are intended for wellness activities like swimming lessons and rehabilitation, not for rowdy parties.
"This new hall is about securing the future of our WI and providing a much-needed resource for Bledlow Ridge for the next 50 years," the spokesperson said. "We are a responsible organisation and will manage the building appropriately. The idea of it becoming a 'party house' is simply unfounded."
Council Decision Awaits
The fate of the project now rests with Buckinghamshire Council's planning department. Officers will have to weigh the clear benefits of a new community facility against the legitimate concerns of local residents about noise and disruption. The decision, expected in the coming weeks, will determine whether the village's traditional WI can realise its modern vision or if neighbourly objections will prevail.
