The Environment & Highways Committee of West Bergholt Parish Council met on 10th June 2021 with topics including:
Handymen activities,
Village ponds & ducks,
Cherry Trees at Orpen Hall,
Allotments, and
Strategic Environmental Planning.
Environment & Highways Report
Committee Meeting held on Thursday 10th June 2021 in the Youth Shelter.
Members:-
John Gili-Ross (Chairman), David Short, Norma Smith, Jenny Church.
Apologies:-
Phil Spencer, Harry Stone.
1
Handymen report
Essex devolved activities continues. Grass cutting remains a priority. We have a prospective replacement for David Hewitt and they will be working with Nigel to introduce him to the work. The maintenance vehicle is due for MOT next month and is unlikely to pass. JGR is investigating a possible replacement vehicle that is for sale.
2
Village Ponds
Queen’s Head Pond – offer of ducks for the pond – The committee do not think would be appropriate at this time as ducks tend to foul the pond water and an algae bloom can occur. This will be monitored. A proposal for a team of volunteers for pond duties will be explored for the future.
3.
Replacement of trees at front of Orpen Hall
Of the 3 cherry trees remaining – one is dead and the other two are dying. They will need to be removed and the cost of doing so investigated. It is proposed to replace the trees in the Autumn possibly with semi-substantial trees being ideal. Phil to recommend what type of trees would be suitable.
The current idea is to identify suitable areas in the village to be left as wildlife sanctuaries and wildflowers. The area near the blue bridge would be a suggested first start. Phil is contacting the Natural History Society for further advice.
There are parking problems at the allotment gate in Chapel Road. Parking on the road is allowed but can create a nuisance on this busy road. This item to be discussed with the Allotment chairperson.
