Milverton Parish Council

February Meeting Report (Apologies for the late posting)

The Council met on Monday 5th February in the Victoria Rooms as usual.

Under Planning Councillors used their delegated powers to pass an application for works associated with a loft conversion at Kubri. To seek to address the concerns of a neighbour associated with the Permitted Development aspect the Council will be writing separately to the applicant.

The Council is keen to undertake a Housing Needs analysis to inform the need for a Neighbourhood Plan. The Council has been in discussion with Somerset Community Council and will be seeking a face to face meeting to take this further.

Councillors discussed the impending surgery closure on 9th February. Unfortunately there was a lack of clarity as to where the proposed services were to be run from and details will be sought at a meeting with SomPar later this month.

In matters to report Councillors expressed concern about the continuing epidemic of dog mess and the rubbish along the bypass.

Cllr Pine reported that a footpath problem has been highlighted by Nynehead Parish Council which she had raised with SCC. The SCC Footpath Officer has carried out some temporary clearance work and will follow up with contractors or volunteers during the summer.

The Deputy Clerk reported on possible new road signs at the entrance to the village. She has some designs from SCC and indicative costs which will be circulated. Councilors will hold a detailed discussion at the March meeting.

The Clerk reported in detail on SCC’s proposal to shut down its Speed Indicator Device (SID) programme and the potential options available. Councillors were of the view that whilst the devices did slow traffic and the information collected was useful the indicative costs of up to £500 per year per location were too expensive. The did however ask the Clerk to investigate a permanent SID outside the school.

The Clerk reported correspondence with the Race Director of the Taunton Triathlon. The Council had raised concerns about speeding cyclists and was seeking reassurance that there were adequate safety precautions and protocols. Councillors were not particularly satisfied with the tone of of the replies and the Clerk will write again.

Councillors also debated the changes to the 25 bus timetable. The Clerk had enquired about this using the First website and received an irrelevant computer generated reply.  Given that there had been no consultation or information other than a changed timetable the Clerk was asked to liaise with Dulverton and Wiveliscombe and try to contact Taunton bus station direct.

Councillors also discussed the SCC library consultation and will make a response through the Chair.

The Clerk reported that following a meeting of allotment holders which was very critical of the Parish Council. Following the meeting wood chip had been laid on the path and a new gate latch installed.

The Council spent £1665 in January on salaries, toilet cleaning and subscriptions.

GDW

14th February 2018