Majendie Lane – double primrose lines - A site meeting was held recently attended by a parishioner, the county councillor, police and Essex County Council highways, about parking problems in Majendie Lane. The solution recommended by those present was the installation of primrose lines. After a detailed discussion, councillors unanimously agreed to support the installation of primrose lines in Majendie Lane from the garage and round the corner into Falcon Square on both sides of the road.
Entrance obstruction, St Nicholas' churchyard – The parish council has had several complaints regarding parked cars obstructing the church gates. This affected a broad range of people from wedding parties and funerals to parishioners with pushchairs or wheelchairs, and access for maintenance such as grass cutting. There is a white hatch area outside the gates, but this is not observed. It was agreed that the clerk should contact Essex County Council to ask whether it would be possible to have an enforceable hatched area or double primrose lines installed.
Annual report distribution – The Explorer Scouts were thanked for their work distributing the annual report and village booklet on 3rd May. Mr Pewter was thanked for distributing copies to the outlying areas of the village. It was unanimously agreed that the scouts should receive a grant of £90.
Relocation of doctors' surgery within Great Yeldham – Two councillors attended the consultation meeting held in Castle Hedingham and gave a report to the council. It was agreed that the parish council would write to the Health Trust to advise that, whilst the council understands the need for new premises in Great Yeldham, they would want to ensure that the current level of medical provision and services within the parish of Castle Hedingham is maintained. They also agreed that the Trust should be made aware of the Parish Council's dissatisfaction with the unsatisfactory nature of the consultation that had taken place in the parish. It was reported to be a very unsatisfactory run of events with no clear presentation of the proposals. Reassurance has been given that there would not be any impact on the service provided within Sible and Castle Hedingham, but the chaotic nature of the meeting had not instilled the councillors present with confidence regarding the substance of this assertion.
Community transport – Mr Hood advised councillors that Braintree District Council has confirmed a one-year agreement for the Braintree Freeport service, amounting to £3,200. This will fully cover the Parish Council's costs of providing the service. Mrs Scattergood and Mr Higgins were thanked for their work in securing this funding.
Grass cutting – Councillors agreed that the high quality of the grass cutters' workmanship has made a significant positive impact on the parish.
Appln 05/00946/TPOCON – Carry out works to trees – Dresden, Pottery Lane, Castle Hedingham – No objections to these conifers being removed and pleased to see that deciduous trees are to be planted instead.
Appln 05/00913/FUL – Proposed retention of gable ends and details on south east and north west elevations – 114 Nunnery Street, Castle Hedingham – no objections.
Next meeting: Wednesday, 15th June starting at 7:45pm in the Old Court House, Castle Hedingham.