Once again Heathlands Primary will be hosting their ever popular Firework Display. This time, it’s a special anniversary as well since it is 25 years since their first display!
Taking place on Saturday 4th November the gate opens at 5pm. Tickets on the night (if left) will cost £8 for adults and £5 for children. Advance purchase is possible from Monday 9th October at discounted prices of Continue reading “25 Years of Heathlands Fireworks”
In light of declining users, and an ageing fleet, Essex County Council are reviewing the future of mobile libraries. The mobile library is well used in West Bergholt by young and old alike. If you want to keep your mobile library make sure you respond to their consultation.
Why ECC Are Consulting
In ECC’s mailing to Parish Councils they have said:
Landowners and householders asked to tidy up near roads ahead of winter
As the weather turns colder, Essex County Council is asking landowners and householders with a garden or land bordering the road to clear ditches and cut back overhanging trees and hedges.
Cllr Ian Grundy, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said:
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Ditches are the responsibility of landowners, even if they are next to the road. Blocked ditches cause flooding which in winter can turn into highly dangerous ice on the road so please do clear them now to avoid putting driver and pedestrians in unnecessary danger.
During Storm Aileen earlier this month, highways crews were contacted about 21 separate incidents where trees blocked roads in Essex.
Cllr Grundy added:
Landowners also have responsibility for any trees near the road. These should be regularly checked and cut to prevent large branches or the whole tree blowing down and blocking the road. People walking along the pavement or verge shouldn’t have to avoid overgrown trees or hedges.
I’m sure everyone will want to act responsibly and take care of their own boundaries, to keep all of us safer this winter.
Enforcement & Guidance
The Council has the power to issue enforcement notices to landowners with blocked ditches which flood the highway or with branches and vegetation found to be obstructing the highway, compelling the owner to carry out any necessary work.
Pavements should be entirely free of plant growth up to a height of 8ft (2.5m).
The road should be clear:
to a height of 17ft (5.1m), and
1.8ft (0.5m) from the edge of the road towards your land.
The Council recommends the use of fully qualified and insured contractors to undertake any necessary work.
You can report highway flooding problems directly to Essex County Council via its website or by calling 0345 6037 631. Visit www.essex.gov.uk/highways to report highway flooding online.
To find out more about flooding prevention in Essex please visit www.essex.gov.uk/flooding or watch their short video below:
The Friends have been busy lately and have news to share about the start of renovations work, their successful afternoon at the village fayre and a new initiative, an Antiques Valuation Day.
St Mary’s Church update for 22nd September provides listings of services, bible readings and other events and news such as Family Fun Afternoon and vacancy for Families Worker.
Don’t forget, the church is now open on weekdays if you would like a quiet space to reflect or say a prayer for someone.
Family Fun Afternoon
St Mary’s has been successful in applying for funds to appoint a part-time Families Worker (see below), and we need to contribute to the cost. Taking place on Saturday 30th September Continue reading “St Mary’s Update – 22nd September 2017”
Affecting children at Heathlands, Bergholt Heath YFC and the general public at large, thoughtless parking at the Poor’s Land Gate is a problem. The Parish Council contracts with Countrywide to maintain this land; last week they tried to gain access on 3 occasions but were unable to do so.
Without maintenance the land may cease to be fit for purpose depriving our youth and fellow villagers of a much-loved facility.
No Excuse
With ample parking available at Orpen Hall & Church car parks, all just a short walk, there really is no excuse.
Parking Issues
This is just the latest in a series of parking concerns over the past year or so. Remember you can help address this by reporting parking, even speeding, issues using Trygve. This app (iOS or Android), allows you to take a picture, record the location and record details of incidents which are then reviewed. There is an active group you can join and see what others are reporting – West Bergholt Road Violations.
The Environment & Highways Sub-Committee of West Bergholt Parish Council met on 14th September and discussed a range of issues including ponds & duck house, allotments, blocked ditch, flooding, storage and handymen. Continue reading “Environment & Highways – 14th September 2017”
The four matches on 17th September produced 2 wins and 2 losses. Many thanks to the players and families who attended the annual BBQ on Sunday. Despite the weather trying its best to spoil the occasion it turned out a resounding success. Next week sees 2 home and 2 away matches.
The Premises & Recreation Sub-Committee of West Bergholt Parish Council met on 4th September when, among other items, they discussed H&S matters, new lighting, new flooring, painting, roofing, handymen, licensing, football clubs, hiring and annual fireworks. Continue reading “Premises & Recreation – 4th September 2017”
The four matches on 10th September produced 3 wins and a loss. Next Sunday (17th) the club is welcoming the new season with their annual ‘Kick-Off BBQ’ with the club’s Chairman, Les, as the chosen Chef.
Lexden Saints vs BHYFC Under 13s
The 13s have seen a fair bit of player movement over the summer but started the new campaign in excellent fashion. The first game of the season saw Bergholt make the trip across town to play Lexden Saints. Last season Lexden finished 3rd in the D League whilst Bergholt finished 4th so a close game was expected.
25 Years of Heathlands Fireworks
St Mary’s Update – 22nd September 2017
Thoughtless Parking at Poor’s Land