Our town has seen a huge amount of regeneration over recent years. Some of it is obvious e.g. Bucks New University and the Brunel Engine Shed. Other investments are less obvious, but surprisingly widespread. Did you know that the council has a long-term policy of buying failing retail units, refurbishing them and leasing to new tenants? This creates revenue to continue more of the same. Future issues of this magazine will look at this in more detail, with news from the council’s Regeneration Team.
Have you noticed The Wheatsheaf on the High Street? The Buckinghamshire Historic Buildings Trust (BHBT) took a long lease on the former Wheatsheaf Public House in 2017. This is actually the oldest surviving building in town after All Saints Church and it dates back to 1399 – the year that saw the end of Richard II’s reign. Apart from a small shop, the building had been empty for some years and its condition had been declining. BHBT have since carefully repaired the historic fabric and restored the building so it can play an important role at the historic centre of High Wycombe.
If you’re interested in this kind of thing, why not join The High Wycombe Society? Their aim is to encourage people to love and cherish the town of High Wycombe, and to get involved with Planning, Transport, Heritage, Environment matters and the maintenance of Pann Mill on The Rye - one of our town’s most precious assets. For more information, and to join the Society (it’s not at all expensive!) visit www.highwycombesociety.org.uk. You will make new friends and find out so much about the town, including receiving a free quarterly newsletter containing fascinating information about High Wycombe.
And finally, get involved with the new Wycombe Assembly. The assembly provides a direct platform for residents to voice their concerns, engage in meaningful dialogue and actively contribute to shaping our community’s future together. Participants explore ways to come together and improve their lives in High Wycombe. Regular meetings will be held at various locations around town. For more information email highwycombeassembly@gmail.com or call on 07311 660062.
