What a fine document the Parish Plan is! – A great tribute to the hard work of all those involved over the last three and a half years, in particular Linda Brookes. What stands this report apart from the Village Appraisal of 1996 (in which I also played a part) is the enormous wealth of ideas for us to ponder as a community. Out of these ideas I am convinced we, and our governing authorities, will be able to find answers that will genuinely make Knebworth an even better place to live.
I am pleased – and relieved! – that conclusions drawn about Knebworth House and Park are generally favourable, and even more pleased to have the valuable suggestions of how we might improve our relationship with our community. Many of these suggestions have already turned into actions whilst the Plan has been evolving, and I intend, over the next few months of this column, to respond to all the issues raised by the Plan concerning Knebworth House and Park.
This month I’ll limit myself to pointing out just one great idea that came out of the Parish Plan – Knebworth House’s Parish Open Days. This year over 250 Parish residents took up our invitation of a free visit to the House, Gardens, Dino Trail and Adventure Playground on the first Sunday of our season. The letters and feedback I have received have been very encouraging, and it is particularly pleasing to hear neighbours, some of whom have lived in the Parish for many years, confess that this is the first time they have visited Knebworth House. All hail the Plan!
Henry Lytton Cobbold
www.knebworthhouse.com