- The Parish Council had had some good dialogue with Haylink, the HMS Ganges site owners / developers. They confirmed that they have briefed a new architect, their new planning application will have higher design values and reflect the requirements following last year's public inquiry (eg using some of the existing buildings). The PC will be carrying out further consultations in order to inform the design process.
- PC Chris Garrod gave a detailed police update. He said there had been 31 crimes in the parish since his last report in late December. He asked residents to be aware of increased theft from insecure outbuildings. Please tell the police of any suspicious persons/vehicles that you see. Chris also explained the forthcoming Safer Neighbourhood Teams, but will report back when the impact on Shotley is clearer.
- As discussed by the Parish Council before, Chris was aware of concerns about groups of youths gathering and causing a disturbance in the areas of Lower Harlings, Kitchener way and Lloyd Road. A 'task plan' has been requested for this in order that extra attention can be made in the area to try and resolve the problems caused, inc criminal damage, noise and litter.
- He mentioned that he has issued many tickets on the peninsula as part of the campaign to target motorists about seat belts, using mobiles, and speeding.
- Chris's full report is available here.
- County Councillor Dave Wood gave an update, including with his Police Authority hat on. The major enquiry into the Suffolk Killings demonstrated that mutual aid amongst police forces can be effective. He also paid tribute to constabulary staff and the people of Suffolk.
- There was no more significant progress on the project to redevelop the tennis courts. It has proved difficult to attract contractors to quote. There is a meeting of the Parish Plan Implementation Board on 22 March to discuss the project to improve facilities at the village hall.
- Linda the Clerk reported that the edges of the tennis courts were about to be cleared of undergrowth again.
- It was agreed to install a new litter bin at Great Harlings bus stop, and replace the one outside the village hall.
- A decision was also made to order two new oak combination notice boards. The board opposite Shotley Gate stores in Bristol Hill is in a bad state of repair so will be replaced. An additional board will be installed near the Shotley Street post office. They will both have space for official Parish Council information, plus a section open for parishioner use.
- An application for a grant by the Power Project (toilet for the church) was agreed. The application by the Royal British Legion was again deferred, as councillors felt it was premature.
- The Council decided to refurbish the village sign.
- Damage had been caused to the new bench at the foot of Bristol Hill, which appeared to have been reversed into by a bus.
- A climate change workshop had been arranged for 22 March.
- The village litter pick had been arranged on 24 March as part of Spring Clean Suffolk Week.
- The Council had no objections to planning applications at 6 Kirkton Close and 4 Blake Avenue, and the revised one at 1 Brickfield Terrace.
- The deadline for nominations for Parish Councillors was 3 April. (if contested the election will be on 3 May). If you are interested in standing, please contact the Clerk.
- A finance report was received. Subsequent note:
following the recent council tax bills, the Parish Council explained that the high percentage increase in Shotley Parish Council's precept is actually a very small actual monetary increase, plus reflects better services <more>
- The Next meeting of the Parish Council, the last of this Council, is 19 April 2007 at 7.15pm in the Village Hall. All welcome.
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