Milverton Parish Council

Meeting Report

April 2018

Madam Chairman, Dr Julie Richardson welcomed Councillors and six members of the public to the meeting on 9th April.

The meeting opened with a question about the Surgery Building that is now for sale on the open market. It was questioned whether the extension that was built with community funds had a covenant on it. With the money having been a donation this is not believed to be a valid a reason to restrict the sale of the building. The Council then discussed the potential of the building being used as a Community hub for organisations and societies within Milverton. It was also suggested that the building could be used  as community offices to rent. The future use of the surgery will be on the agenda for Annual Parish Meeting on 15th May.

Councillors and residents still have concerns over the prescription and patient service run from Creedwell Community Rooms.

Under planning, the Council gave their comments for the outline planning consent for residential development of up to 2 dwellings, whilst retaining and refurbishing the existing Garden Cottage. High Street.  Councillors supported the outline proposal plans.

The Parish Council were saddened to hear of the recent passing of Michael Reynolds, an extraordinary man whose time, tacked and expertise helped keep Milverton as it is today.  Madam Chairman will attend his Memorial Service on 4th May and give thanks on behalf of the Parish Council.  

The Emergency Plan activation has been reviewed and the Emergency Committee Chairman will look to correct some issues that have been raised. The list of Volunteers needs updating to add Electricians and Plumbers.  Street representatives, the purchase of equipment like salt bin shovels, walkie talkies and mini generators will also need to be in place for future events. Communication of plan activation needs improving. It was suggested that a banner could be erected in the village and  reminders posted in the Parish Magazine.

A recent article appeared in the Wiveliscombe Messenger which the Council agreed summed up feelings on the reduction of the Number 25 bus route. Although there is still a lot of upset it is clear  that First Bus are going to keep the revised timetable, without too much consideration of the users of the service.

Replacing the Village signs have been investigated and an idea to add a motif has been suggested. Parishioners are asked to bring ideas to the Annual Parish Meeting which has been postponed to Tuesday 15th May.

In February the Council spent £2064 on salaries & PAYE, toilet cleaning and electrics, planning officers and the emptying of dog bins.  Income came from Allotment rents and VAT rebates.

Lorna Thorne

Deputy Clerk to Milverton Parish Council