Newsletter December 2020

Parish Council matters this month very much concentrated on the planning application for the Greencore site which was before us.

We were very much hopeful of meeting in the village hall to hear as may views from the public as possible, but changing covid guidance meant we had to resort once again to zoom, so many thanks to the many people who took the time to join us, and we did get to hear from many residents.

The council decided unanimously to object to the application, not only because the number of houses was considered excessive, but it fails to deliver any community benefit to the village. We were particularly disappointed that after many meetings with the developers, they totally disregarded our stated wish for a bigger shop and retention of the silk mill. As this is such an important site in the middle of the village, we are now investigating the possibility of employing an external planning expert to help us through the application, and of course, as Mendip will make any final decision, we will be working closely with our Mendip councillor, Barry O’Leary as the application proceeds.

Covid has also made its presence felt in that the much anticipated and enjoyed fireworks in the playing field has had to cancelled, but new guidance will allow a restricted socially distanced remembrance service in the cemetery. There will be no church service, or parade, but wreaths will be laid, so many thanks to the Legion for organising this. There is also no house to house collection either, so please consider buying your poppy at one of the other outlets.

I expect all our meetings will be on zoom for the foreseeable future, so please check the notice board and website for details, all meetings open to the public as usual.

Keep safe and well

Rob Reed

Chair, Evercreech Parish Council