Newsletter September 2020

Welcome to my first scribblings as I unexpectedly find myself as Chair of the Parish Council after the resignation of Murray Stewart.

I must first pay tribute and offer my thanks to Murray for his hard work and expertise during a very difficult transition time for the council, and I hope he can reflect on his successes during that time, such as the completion of the refurbishment of the playground at Queens Road, and I hope I can continue in the same high standard.

Talking of the playground, it unfortunately is still shut as a result of government guidance on Covid19 restrictions. The latest guidance allows it to open, but with such stringent conditions that we, along with other councils in the area, would find it impossible to adhere to. The guidance is being updated all the time, of course, and hopefully with summer holidays looming we can open it sooner rather than later.

The dilapidating Greencore factory is still causing concern. The developers, Lichfields, have put a consultation document on their web site, which is their consultation, which we welcome, but the PC had a working party which met with them and stressed our support for the retention of the old silk mill, the village need for a much larger shop, and the hope for a civic hub. We were very disappointed when none of these appeared in the consultation. They are obviously preparing to submit a planning application, so any further queries will be dealt with by Mendip District Council, and we shall supporting our Mendip councillor Barry O’Leary as it progresses.

I look forward to staying in touch with you through this excellent magazine, and if I can be of any help please do not hesitate to be in touch.

Best wishes

Rob Reed