Mayor's Report February/March 2010
King Arthur's Community School recently underwent an Ofsted Inspection. The resulting report has concluded the School grading to be good. I would like to offer my congratulations to Head Teacher Ms Tamra Bradbury, staff and pupils in raising the standard since its previous inspection. It is evident much work has been undertaken for this to have happened and everyone should be encouraged by this excellent news. Very often it is only the negative issues that are voiced and seldom the positive. Everyone should all be encouraged by this progress from which the school can build upon. I wish them every success in future years.
As mentioned in my previous report our clerk has been actively pursuing the possibility of providing a Household Recycling Centre within our town. A site was purchased several years ago but has never been developed. We have been in correspondence with Somerset Waste Partnership to enquire about the prospect of this facility being provided and anticipated timescales. However, despite the initial response being negative our council does not accept that the issue is closed. We will continue to pursue all avenues and seek support to ensure it does not become forgotten, we strongly believe it should form part of the facilities within our community.
Recently concerns have been raised, by residents, relating to Dog Fouling within our town. As soon as concern was raised our Clerk contacted the SSDC Dog Warden, who covers this area, to raise awareness. Regular patrols do take place but despite this it is not always possible to witness the offence or identify the offending owner. It is hoped with the support of the Dog Warden, Police & Council owners will be made aware of their legal requirement to remove any fouling. Recently I was advised of a similar problem at Wincanton Sports Ground. Who in an effort to advise dog owners of their responsibility, had signs made and placed around the site. Sadly some of which only lasted two days before being destroyed.
Litter is a long standing problem. Our council was recently encouraged during one of it's meetings by a community spirited parishioner, who has come forward with a proposal to assist the council in coordinating a team of volunteers to pick litter. Our council has welcomed and embraced this initiative and is currently sourcing equipment. It is worth noting, 46 bags of rubbish was collected during a previous coordinated campaign.
Furthermore we are fortunate to have two voluntary PPLO's, Parish Paths Liaison Officers, within our town. These officers walk the local footpaths and report to the local countryside ranger on the condition of stiles, gates, bridges, signposts and way marks. After learning of this, both were invited to attend a meeting to inform council of the role they undertake within our community. After a presentation our council pledged its full support and will publicise and promote their work. Our clerk is actively seeking funding to produce booklets and information for residents and tourists.
An improvement plan is well underway to enhance the play equipment at the Penn View recreation area. The scheme will include some new equipment and improvement to existing. I hope to be able convey further detail in my next report.
As always, if anyone requires further information please feel free to visit our Town Hall and speak to our clerk Mrs Sam Skirton, who will be only too pleased to assist.
Richard D'Arcy
Mayor Wincanton Town Council
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