Broken Barrier to be Replaced

The Parish Council noted at its meeting on Monday (Aug 21st) that the wooden barrier between the car park and playing field had been badly damaged. Given that the upright posts were found to be rotten, it was difficult to know if the damage was the result of deliberate vandalism, careless 'messing about' or an accident. Given the amount of littering, rowdy and sometimes intimidating behaviour on the field in recent weeks, many residents have come to their own conclusions.

The barrier has been placed there to prevent parking on the grass and the Parish Council will now look at the possibility of replacing the wooden barrier with a strong metal one that should last longer and be more resistant to damage. This will be a more costly solution.

One problem that the Parish Council sometimes finds is finding companies to undertake work on their behalf. As an organistion receiving public money it is duty bound to spend it judiciously and to get more than one quote. The installation of the new picnic table is delayed because of difficulties in getting a contractor and a quote of £3,984.00 has been rejected as too high. A new contractor has had to be found to do the Playing Field hedges but the quote from a new supplier of £389 was accepted. As many householders will know, obtaining quotations takes time and while this process is going on it can look to outsiders that 'nothing is being done'.

For some problems there can be easier solutions. The rebuilding of the rear wall in Duckers Well will be undertaken by Councillor Ryan and another volunteer, with the Parish Council's insurance being temporarily extended to cover the work. The Parish Council no longer require the use of a garage to the rear of the High Street for storage. As the only thing left in the space is the Christmas lights, their removal to a councillor's garage will save the Parish Council £5.10 per week in rent!