Morlands Executive Group finally got round to publishing the minutes of the last meeting. Note the presence of Jim Barron and Les Bennett - agreed at the extraordinary council meeting last month.
MORLANDS EXECUTIVE GROUP
30 JANUARY, 2009 - COUNTY HALL, TAUNTON
Attendees:
Kay Allen - Head of Community Regeneration, SCC
Cllr Harvey Siggs - Leader, MDC
Malcolm Williams - Director, Community & Regeneration, MDC
Cllr Alvin Horsfall - Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, SCC
Cllr Les Bennett - Chair, West Mendip Community Partnership
Cllr Jim Barron - Glastonbury Town Council
Cllr Tom Billing - Glastonbury Town Council
Carl Budden - Area Head of Regeneration, SWRDA
Paul Calvert - Asset Manager, SWRDA
1.. Welcome & Introductions
CB welcomed everyone to the meeting. TB explained that JB had been nominated as Glastonbury Town Council's representative on the MEG. TB would attend MEG meetings periodically in his capacity as Mayor.
AH queried the reason for the SWRDA meeting with Cllrs Harvey Siggs and Ken Maddock following the MEG meeting on 1 December 2008. CB explained that this was a "one off" meeting arranged out of courtesy to brief both Cllrs as neither could attend the December meeting.
Membership of the MEG was discussed and in particular whether Street should be represented. It was agreed that this is not necessary; LB as Chair of WMCP would represent the views of Street.
Additional agenda items were agreed as follows:
Mendip DC land
Land at Wearyall Hill
Land adjacent to Skatepark site
2.. Apologies
No apologies were received
3.. Notes of last meeting and matters arising
It was agreed that the notes of the meeting held on 1 December, 2008 accurately reflected the matters reported and discussed. AH reinforced his view that consideration should be given to the use of micro hydro power in the Northover Mill renovation project. SWRDA will discuss this with BIRT and the SWRDA Renewable Energy Team.
4.. Urban Splash update
US are drawing up detailed proposals for the renovation of the two listed (Baily's) buildings and for the new build office units on plots E1 and E2. They propose to submit a full detailed planning application for this first phase of development by April. Plots E1 & E2 also offer the opportunity to secure a development for Strode College and US have been in discussion with Strode and their advisors regarding this. At the same time they will submit an outline application for the redbrick/Bauhaus site (Plots B1 / B2). They will carry out a detailed feasibility study to determine the viability of retaining the redbrick building.
In addition to the normal planning process, US are preparing a Community Consultation Plan and propose to hold a "walk in" public exhibition in Glastonbury which will give them the opportunity to engage with Glastonbury and Street residents on their vision and proposals for Morlands.
There followed a detailed discussion on the risks, costs and problems of retaining the redbrick buildings given SWRDA's concerns over Health & Safety, the decision to demolish the building and the subsequent decision to put the demolition contract on hold following the "sit in" by a group of protesters. The firm view of all elected representatives on the MEG was that the building should be demolished.
5.. Priority Sites update.
There has been no significant change since the December meeting. Priority Sites is 51% owned by RBS and 49% by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and this creates some uncertainty regarding their ongoing development remit. However, the local management say they are still committed to Morlands and will get on site as soon as they can. Members of MEG questioned how long SWRDA were prepared to give Priority Sites to deliver their scheme for which they have detailed planning permission. CB explained that there was still a reasonable prospect that Priority Sites would start work soon and SWRDA were therefore happy to continue working with them for the time being.
6.. CPG/Avalon Plastics update.
Contracts have finally been exchanged with CPG and a press release has been agreed with Avalon. CPG will now submit a detailed planning application and expect to start on site by April/May 2009
7.. Other Disposals update
Plot G. Discussions are ongoing regarding a possible hotel/restaurant scheme on this site. This use received unanimous approval from MEG members.
Plot E3. There is continued interest from two local businesses. Varlin are arranging for their consultants to view the site and advise them on development options.
JB asked why local car dealer Percy's had been rejected by SWRDA. Although retail is not permitted they could still have a workshop/servicing facility on site. CB explained that this use did not fit in with the Enterprise Park.
8. Beckery Cottages. (Mendip Housing) update.
SWRDA had been expecting to announce that contracts had been exchanged with Mendip Housing. Unfortunately there has been a further legal delay but SWRDA's solicitors have assured them that exchange is imminent.
9. Northover Mill (BIRT) update.
SWRDA has agreed to transfer the Freehold of the property to BIRT immediately rather than wait for them to secure funding for the total renovation project cost. Owning the FH should put BIRT in a better position to secure project funding and will also allow them to utilise volunteer labour to carry out some of the works.
10. Skatepark (Mendip District Council) update.
Solicitors have been instructed regarding the land transfer.
11. Chapel Fields (Somerset County Council)
Solicitors have been instructed regarding the land transfer.
12. Estate Management update.
A site meeting was being arranged with local builder D Cribb & Son to look at building security options
13. Public Relations - Review and update.
The PR protocol (January 2009) was circulated for comments.
14. AOB - additional agenda items.
Wearyall Hill: Mendip DC is happy for this land to be transferred to Glastonbury Town Council.
Land adjacent to Skatepark: Town Council to put a proposal to Mendip DC regarding the future use of this land
Mendip DC land: The clean up costs for the heavily contaminated northern part of this site are estimated to be several million pounds. However, there are only "hot spots" of contamination on the southern part of the site and the council has received a number of enquiries for low grade employment uses such as storage. It is recognised that such uses might be in conflict with the proposals for the re-use of the listed buildings. Mendip DC also has a housing duty to the travellers currently camped on this site and until this issue is resolved proposals for the Mendip DC land are on hold.
15. Date of next meeting.
27 April 2009, 10.00am, County Hall, Taunton.
Showing posts with label red brick building. Show all posts
Showing posts with label red brick building. Show all posts
Friday, 20 February 2009
Monday, 2 February 2009
Urban Splash and Artists
As I've mentioned before, my mate Simon Cauty is an artist who has studio space in an Urban Splash development ar Royal William Yard in Plymouth, and very nice it is too. It was part of the development remit to provide spaces for art.
So you might be wondering what to do with the Red Brick Building? Here's an idea.
ArtspaceLifespace are, as they put it "an artist led initiative that recycles vacant, under used and often semi derelict urban and rural sites into thriving active creative arts resources."
There's more:
Bridewell Island located in Bristol's city centre will be our new space and base for future projects. We are turning the island into a fully functioning community arts space. We aim to provide space for all manner of creative individuals and groups as well as a performance/exhibition space for hosting city centre events.
Further Information: The property is owned by Urban Splash, a British company which regenerates decaying industrial buildings.
So ... ArtspaceLifespace live in Bristol, which is a bit too far for them to take over the running of the Red Brick Building, but close enough for the fine folk of Avalon to form an affiliate. I'm sure Urban Splash would be OK with it (even though they don't actually own the Red Brick Building yet), as they already deal with ArtspaceLifespace.
How's that for an idea? Answers on a postcard please :)
So you might be wondering what to do with the Red Brick Building? Here's an idea.
ArtspaceLifespace are, as they put it "an artist led initiative that recycles vacant, under used and often semi derelict urban and rural sites into thriving active creative arts resources."
There's more:
Bridewell Island located in Bristol's city centre will be our new space and base for future projects. We are turning the island into a fully functioning community arts space. We aim to provide space for all manner of creative individuals and groups as well as a performance/exhibition space for hosting city centre events.
Further Information: The property is owned by Urban Splash, a British company which regenerates decaying industrial buildings.
So ... ArtspaceLifespace live in Bristol, which is a bit too far for them to take over the running of the Red Brick Building, but close enough for the fine folk of Avalon to form an affiliate. I'm sure Urban Splash would be OK with it (even though they don't actually own the Red Brick Building yet), as they already deal with ArtspaceLifespace.
How's that for an idea? Answers on a postcard please :)
Thursday, 29 January 2009
Public Meeting: first reaction (Posted on 21/1/2009)
I've just come back from a turbulent and rather messy town council meeting which SWRDA, in the form of Carl Budden, Paul Calvert and James Harper, attended.
My first impression: what a lot of questions! 81 on the sheet the Council had prepared, and 10 more from Paul Lund which had somehow been forgotten in the rush.
The meeting progressed pretty well at first: Rory Weightman, who was spokesperson for the Morlands Crew, submitted the groups views, which predictably suggested that the Red Brick Building be saved and converted to a space for the community with artists studio, facilities for young people, and for the community.
Ted Higgins then spoke of his fears that the whole project would drag on too long and asked who would be paying for any community space. Unfortunately he rather ungraciously let his prejudices slip with regard to the protest group and smeared them, by suggesting that they didn't want to pay for anything, to audible protests from the floor.
Carl Budden went over what he said at last weeks council meeting (see an earlier post for details).
I'll leave this post right here for now: it's late and I'm tired. My thoughts are that the Mayor could have kept the meeting on a shorter leash: while people need to express their feelings, not much was achieved and many, many questions weren't addressed. I asked Paul Lund, founder and director of the Sustainable Environment Company, if any of his questions had been answered: he gave me a one-word answer and I'll leave you to guess what that was.
My first impression: what a lot of questions! 81 on the sheet the Council had prepared, and 10 more from Paul Lund which had somehow been forgotten in the rush.
The meeting progressed pretty well at first: Rory Weightman, who was spokesperson for the Morlands Crew, submitted the groups views, which predictably suggested that the Red Brick Building be saved and converted to a space for the community with artists studio, facilities for young people, and for the community.
Ted Higgins then spoke of his fears that the whole project would drag on too long and asked who would be paying for any community space. Unfortunately he rather ungraciously let his prejudices slip with regard to the protest group and smeared them, by suggesting that they didn't want to pay for anything, to audible protests from the floor.
Carl Budden went over what he said at last weeks council meeting (see an earlier post for details).
I'll leave this post right here for now: it's late and I'm tired. My thoughts are that the Mayor could have kept the meeting on a shorter leash: while people need to express their feelings, not much was achieved and many, many questions weren't addressed. I asked Paul Lund, founder and director of the Sustainable Environment Company, if any of his questions had been answered: he gave me a one-word answer and I'll leave you to guess what that was.
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
Preamble to Town Hall meeting
As mentioned earlier, there's a public Town Council meeting in Glastonbury Town Hall about the future of the Morlands site. It was called (by the mayor of Glastonbury) at very short notice, which some suspect was a tactic to wrong-foot the protest group and the people of the town. Only written questions from the public would be allowed. The deadline for questions was very short (5 days). This left the protest group, with whom I have close contacts, very little time to agitate and concoct a strategy, which I'm not alone in suspecting was the general idea.
I was active in formulating and distributing a neutrally-worded leaflet which explained the situation and allowed people to write a question on the reverse.
Anyway, the deadline passed yesterday at noon. That leaves just over 48 hours for the town clerk to look through the submitted questions, chuck out the anonymous/illegible ones, de-duplicate and collate the similar ones (I bet there are quite a few "where's the money gone?" submissions), and then forward them to the relevant parties. It's only right that SWRDA get to see them beforehand and get some time to prepare: there would be little point in letting SWRDA get off the hook by saying "we need time to answer this, we'll get back to you" and all that...
I suspected from the start that the choice of the earliest possible time for a public meeting (council meetings are required by law to be announced publicly a week before they take place) was a risky tactic that could turn round and bite SWRDA on the......rear end: they only have a couple of days at the very most to get their answers sorted out. Lots of questions could be a bit of a problem as mistakes occur when you're in a hurry.
So I bet you're wondering: how many questions are there?
Lots, apparently: I've seen ten separate and detailed questions from one local sustainable development organisation alone. I've heard on the grapevine that there are more than 20 different questions, which is an awful lot for a meeting that begins at 7pm. Somehow I don't think there will be time for questions from the floor.
I love this town. I'll admit that it looks a bit 'different' to the casual observer, but scratch the surface and you'll find lots of really good people and a strong, renascent community. Well done, the people of Glastonbury. We might just wag the dog...
I was active in formulating and distributing a neutrally-worded leaflet which explained the situation and allowed people to write a question on the reverse.
Anyway, the deadline passed yesterday at noon. That leaves just over 48 hours for the town clerk to look through the submitted questions, chuck out the anonymous/illegible ones, de-duplicate and collate the similar ones (I bet there are quite a few "where's the money gone?" submissions), and then forward them to the relevant parties. It's only right that SWRDA get to see them beforehand and get some time to prepare: there would be little point in letting SWRDA get off the hook by saying "we need time to answer this, we'll get back to you" and all that...
I suspected from the start that the choice of the earliest possible time for a public meeting (council meetings are required by law to be announced publicly a week before they take place) was a risky tactic that could turn round and bite SWRDA on the...
So I bet you're wondering: how many questions are there?
Lots, apparently: I've seen ten separate and detailed questions from one local sustainable development organisation alone. I've heard on the grapevine that there are more than 20 different questions, which is an awful lot for a meeting that begins at 7pm. Somehow I don't think there will be time for questions from the floor.
I love this town. I'll admit that it looks a bit 'different' to the casual observer, but scratch the surface and you'll find lots of really good people and a strong, renascent community. Well done, the people of Glastonbury. We might just wag the dog...
Friday, 16 January 2009
On the front page of Fosse Way magazine
Fosse Way magazine (free local weekly publication) carried this article on its front page today:
Squatters win stay of execution for derelict factory
January 16 2009
Quote:
PROTESTORS have persuaded developers to hold fire on the demolition of a derelict factory building.
Squatters moved into what is know as the red brick building on the Morlands site between Glastonbury and Street last week after the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) announced plans to demolish it because of safety concerns.
Morlands Crew protest group believes the large building, constructed in the early 1900s, is sound and should not be flattened just to stop break-ins.
Around 15 people from the group accessed the building and refused to leave until the RDA promised to complete a thorough consultation about the viability of the building and its future use.
Protestors have now left the building following a meeting with RDA officials on Monday. As a result, RDA representatives will attend a special meeting of Glastonbury Town Council on Wednesday evening and members of the public are welcome.
Remember this: written questions only for the council meeting! You can find the details of the meeting right here.
Squatters win stay of execution for derelict factory
January 16 2009
Quote:
PROTESTORS have persuaded developers to hold fire on the demolition of a derelict factory building.
Squatters moved into what is know as the red brick building on the Morlands site between Glastonbury and Street last week after the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) announced plans to demolish it because of safety concerns.
Morlands Crew protest group believes the large building, constructed in the early 1900s, is sound and should not be flattened just to stop break-ins.
Around 15 people from the group accessed the building and refused to leave until the RDA promised to complete a thorough consultation about the viability of the building and its future use.
Protestors have now left the building following a meeting with RDA officials on Monday. As a result, RDA representatives will attend a special meeting of Glastonbury Town Council on Wednesday evening and members of the public are welcome.
Remember this: written questions only for the council meeting! You can find the details of the meeting right here.
Thursday, 15 January 2009
Central Somerset Gazette report from Council meeting
Some kind soul posted a comment with a link to this article in the Central Somerset Gazette:
Public to have their say on Morlands.
Thanks for the heads-up, whoever you are.
Public to have their say on Morlands.
Thanks for the heads-up, whoever you are.
Protest over, meeting next week...now what?
I'm sure people are out there beavering away, penning their questions for the public meeting on Wednesday Jan 21st at 7pm...so now what?
How about a Flash Mob? Here's an "arty" one:
Greenpeace organised this one: looks a bit boring to me, but lots of red t-shirts...
This one's more fun!
Of course it's been purloined by advertisers. How depressing.
So: how about a flashmob here in Avalon about Morlands? Maybe we could all stuff huge amounts of toilet paper in out ears and not listen to anyone, like the RDA...?
More flashmob stuff at www.flashmob.co.uk. Share and Enjoy :)
How about a Flash Mob? Here's an "arty" one:
Greenpeace organised this one: looks a bit boring to me, but lots of red t-shirts...
This one's more fun!
Of course it's been purloined by advertisers. How depressing.
So: how about a flashmob here in Avalon about Morlands? Maybe we could all stuff huge amounts of toilet paper in out ears and not listen to anyone, like the RDA...?
More flashmob stuff at www.flashmob.co.uk. Share and Enjoy :)
Wednesday, 14 January 2009
Vociferous reaction from local publican
Rik, head honcho at Tor Leisure (which was once the Morlands Social Club) has been following developments at the Morlands site for a number of years. This is an extract of what he had to say - and mind it don't burn yer ears off!
Incompetence?
1) They are paid to secure the site and have done so reasonably well, or are they admitting they have been unable to do that i.e. INCOMPETENT
2) The demonstrators are responsible people well aware of their surroundings, well aware they were under intense media scrutiny, and hardly at all likely to jeopardise their missing a couple of lessons at college let alone their lives.I hope the demostrators respond to the accusation they are completely unable to recognize they are human beings like the rest of us and incapable of crossing the road unaided.
3)What other stories or reports to police etc are there of, as portrayed, hoards of kids being removed from this site. If they say it has happened on many occasions before, where are the recorded incidents and if they continue with that line without justifiable evidence, I would call that INCOMPETENT
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH if they can't even manage a derelict site what sort of confidence can anyone have in their "deals" and development strategy?
An investigation MUST be implemented immediately into the conduct of this entire operation.i.e. what was claimed on the expense account for tonights "special appearance" when will the tap be turned off? We are all going to be paying for Gordo's promises for years, I really object to paying for this lot as well.
SWRDA must be realising that many local people share Rik's views. If they're unaware, I hope they're reading this.
Incompetence?
1) They are paid to secure the site and have done so reasonably well, or are they admitting they have been unable to do that i.e. INCOMPETENT
2) The demonstrators are responsible people well aware of their surroundings, well aware they were under intense media scrutiny, and hardly at all likely to jeopardise their missing a couple of lessons at college let alone their lives.I hope the demostrators respond to the accusation they are completely unable to recognize they are human beings like the rest of us and incapable of crossing the road unaided.
3)What other stories or reports to police etc are there of, as portrayed, hoards of kids being removed from this site. If they say it has happened on many occasions before, where are the recorded incidents and if they continue with that line without justifiable evidence, I would call that INCOMPETENT
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH if they can't even manage a derelict site what sort of confidence can anyone have in their "deals" and development strategy?
An investigation MUST be implemented immediately into the conduct of this entire operation.i.e. what was claimed on the expense account for tonights "special appearance" when will the tap be turned off? We are all going to be paying for Gordo's promises for years, I really object to paying for this lot as well.
SWRDA must be realising that many local people share Rik's views. If they're unaware, I hope they're reading this.
Official Public Meeting info
From the Town Council's website:
Public Meeting On The Morland Enterprise Site
Quoted in full:
An Extraordinary Meeting of the Glastonbury Town Council will be held on Wednesday 21st January 2009 at starting at 7pm in the Main Hall of Glastonbury Town Hall, during which representatives from the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) will answer written questions from residents of Glastonbury and generally explain the situation regarding developments on the Morland’s Enterprise Park. For details read more......
The deadline for receipt of written questions is Monday 19th January 2009 midday. All questions must be in writing and accompanied by full name, address and telephone contact details of the author. Anonymous letters will be ignored. You can email your questions to Jane Czornij [ed: Jane Czornij's email address is glastonburytowncouncil@townhall.fsbusiness.co.uk] or address your questions to:
SWRDA
Town Clerk
Town Hall
Magdalene Street
Glastonbury
Somerset BA6 9EL
For the Agenda click here
and here it is:
AGENDA FOR EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL
Wednesday 21st January 2009 at the Glastonbury Town Hall
1. Apologies
2. Declarations of interest
3. Mayor’s Announcements and Introductions
4. Statement of Progress on the development of the Morland's Enterprise Park by the SWRDA.
5.SWRDA responses to written questions from residents of Glastonbury.
6. Supplementary questions from members of the Glastonbury Town Council, District Councillors and County Councillor.
7.Summing up by SWRDA.
8. Close of meeting.
MEMBERS ARE REMINDED THAT THE COUNCIL HAS A GENERAL DUTY TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING MATTERS IN THE EXERCISE OF ANY OF ITS FUNCTIONS: Equal opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.
So get a move on and get your question in on time!
I wonder what will happen if they have too many questions? Does anyone know about the procedures? Please contact me at rchisnallATgmailDOTcom if you do.
Public Meeting On The Morland Enterprise Site
Quoted in full:
An Extraordinary Meeting of the Glastonbury Town Council will be held on Wednesday 21st January 2009 at starting at 7pm in the Main Hall of Glastonbury Town Hall, during which representatives from the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) will answer written questions from residents of Glastonbury and generally explain the situation regarding developments on the Morland’s Enterprise Park. For details read more......
The deadline for receipt of written questions is Monday 19th January 2009 midday. All questions must be in writing and accompanied by full name, address and telephone contact details of the author. Anonymous letters will be ignored. You can email your questions to Jane Czornij [ed: Jane Czornij's email address is glastonburytowncouncil@townhall.fsbusiness.co.uk] or address your questions to:
SWRDA
Town Clerk
Town Hall
Magdalene Street
Glastonbury
Somerset BA6 9EL
For the Agenda click here
and here it is:
AGENDA FOR EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL
Wednesday 21st January 2009 at the Glastonbury Town Hall
1. Apologies
2. Declarations of interest
3. Mayor’s Announcements and Introductions
4. Statement of Progress on the development of the Morland's Enterprise Park by the SWRDA.
5.SWRDA responses to written questions from residents of Glastonbury.
6. Supplementary questions from members of the Glastonbury Town Council, District Councillors and County Councillor.
7.Summing up by SWRDA.
8. Close of meeting.
MEMBERS ARE REMINDED THAT THE COUNCIL HAS A GENERAL DUTY TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING MATTERS IN THE EXERCISE OF ANY OF ITS FUNCTIONS: Equal opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.
So get a move on and get your question in on time!
I wonder what will happen if they have too many questions? Does anyone know about the procedures? Please contact me at rchisnallATgmailDOTcom if you do.
More from the Central Somerset Gazette
Avalon gateway could make a great statement
January 13 2009
Quote:
As the protesters moved out of the derelict factory, one Glastonbury resident called on the SWRDA to seize the opportunity to use the site to create a spiritual university.
"The Morlands site is the gateway to Avalon," said Bryn Whitcombe.
"This is an excellent opportunity for the SWRDA to create something amazing on that site, rather than just another business park.
"For centuries, Glastonbury has been a centre of pilgrimage for people of all faiths and I would love to see it used to create a space where people of all faiths could come and enrich their souls."
Sounds like an interesting idea, and personally, I like it: but I can't help thinking that a suggestion like that will lead to a 'holy war' which will highlight some of the divisions that, like it or not, already exist in this wonderfully diverse town.
Best of luck to Mr Whitcombe: I think it's about time we moved on from the old entrenched positions and begin to work together for the benefit of the community as a whole. I'm not sure if SWRDA can be reached with a spiritual approach, but if his idea can be an instrument of change, then we'll all benefit.
January 13 2009
Quote:
As the protesters moved out of the derelict factory, one Glastonbury resident called on the SWRDA to seize the opportunity to use the site to create a spiritual university.
"The Morlands site is the gateway to Avalon," said Bryn Whitcombe.
"This is an excellent opportunity for the SWRDA to create something amazing on that site, rather than just another business park.
"For centuries, Glastonbury has been a centre of pilgrimage for people of all faiths and I would love to see it used to create a space where people of all faiths could come and enrich their souls."
Sounds like an interesting idea, and personally, I like it: but I can't help thinking that a suggestion like that will lead to a 'holy war' which will highlight some of the divisions that, like it or not, already exist in this wonderfully diverse town.
Best of luck to Mr Whitcombe: I think it's about time we moved on from the old entrenched positions and begin to work together for the benefit of the community as a whole. I'm not sure if SWRDA can be reached with a spiritual approach, but if his idea can be an instrument of change, then we'll all benefit.
Politics, like comedy, is about timing...but less funny
I mentioned the timing of the Extraordinary Council Meeting-cum-Public Meeting in the previous post: the timing is interesting.
Here's why:
» It's very soon. This puts the local community on the back foot, as we don't have hordes of paid minions to do our bidding like the RDA.
» It's either very inconvenient or very convenient with regard to the local newspaper, the Central Somerset Gazette. They have deadlines as follows (thanks to the CSG for this info):
[deadline for] What's On is 9am on Tuesday and the deadline for news is 12 noon on Tuesday.
News that comes in on Tuesday is likely to be held over until the following week if it is not date sensitive, as by this time the reporter will have the whole paper planned. It is therefore often much better to get it in by Monday, or earlier if possible.
So...a meeting on a wednesday won't make the local rag until the week after, at which point it's no doubt lost some of it's news value.
I think it's likely that the RDA will get a sound spanking at this meeting, which IMAO they thoroughly deserve. Keeping it out of the local news will allow their backsides to cool off and save a few red faces too, I bet.
And this begs the question: who scheduled the meeting? Answers on a postcard please :)
ps: The CSG carried the following headline on an article yesterday: Mission accomplished for Morland site protesters?
It's not accomplished: far from it, it's only just started...
Here's why:
» It's very soon. This puts the local community on the back foot, as we don't have hordes of paid minions to do our bidding like the RDA.
» It's either very inconvenient or very convenient with regard to the local newspaper, the Central Somerset Gazette. They have deadlines as follows (thanks to the CSG for this info):
[deadline for] What's On is 9am on Tuesday and the deadline for news is 12 noon on Tuesday.
News that comes in on Tuesday is likely to be held over until the following week if it is not date sensitive, as by this time the reporter will have the whole paper planned. It is therefore often much better to get it in by Monday, or earlier if possible.
So...a meeting on a wednesday won't make the local rag until the week after, at which point it's no doubt lost some of it's news value.
I think it's likely that the RDA will get a sound spanking at this meeting, which IMAO they thoroughly deserve. Keeping it out of the local news will allow their backsides to cool off and save a few red faces too, I bet.
And this begs the question: who scheduled the meeting? Answers on a postcard please :)
ps: The CSG carried the following headline on an article yesterday: Mission accomplished for Morland site protesters?
It's not accomplished: far from it, it's only just started...
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
So what really happened at tonight's council meeting?
I've been pondering tonight's council meeting. I don't know if you can catch cynicism from being around politicians but I've been taking a cynical look and trying not to become a cynic, if you get my drift. The devil's in the detail.
The first bit of (possibly) dodgy dealing was in the formulation of the reason for the public meeting. Somehow point #14 on the agenda referred to "the situation regarding the red brick building" and not the whole site, as agreed at the meeting of Jan 13th. Check the video clips and press releases elsewhere on this blog if you're in doubt. Hazel Pegg noted this discrepancy and luckily it was cleared up: I would like to think it was a misunderstanding and not the work of a double agent in the council who's trying to play both sides against the middle. Check out Hanlon's Razor for an explanation, perhaps.
The Mayor kindly bumped agenda point #14 to the top of the list...so here we went.
Carl Budden, who takes care of regeneration for SWRDA in Somerset, spoke at length to the meeting. He had a few points to make after a bit of grovelling about SWRDAs failure to communicate and the mistrust it had fostered in the local community. They've decided to fix that, mostly by holding quarterly meetings with a revised executive group. Wait and see.
He also spoke about a closer liaisons with the Central Somerset Gazette. I wonder if they'll start buying loads of advertising space? I'll get back to the Gazette later.
Avalon Plastics, whose present factory adjoins the site, and who applied to build a factory on the site and were refused by the RDA, will soon be exchanging contracts with SWRDA. I'm not 100% sure but the word is that Avalon Plastics, after being snubbed by SWRDA, went through the normal planning process and effectively twisted SWRDA's arm...I'll have to check that out. Anyway, they're all best mates now and we should all buy SWRDA a drink or what?
The redbrick cottages (by The Beckery - not the Red Brick Buildings) will be transferred to Mendip Housing, but the original contractor has gone bust. They'll soon be appointing a new contractor - which I hope will be a local firm.
Developer Urban Splash are having difficulties, it seems (see earlier post). They're still involved with about 80,000 ft2 in the Baily and Bauhaus buildings but they still want to proceed.
The other developer, Priority Sites, are still involved but...you guessed it, are getting credit crunched. Maybe they can start work in May or June 2009. To quote a Danish wag: "It's hard to make predictions, especially about the future."
Strode College were mentioned by the dapper Mr Budden who was chatty and relaxed...most of the time. Something about a skills and training centre was mentioned and the soon-to-be-rebuilt-after-an-oh-so-embarrassing-demolition Skate Park will be transferred to Mendip District Council so the RDA don't get sued for the inevitable broken heads and elbows. Just kidding. I used to ride a skateboard when I was 17 and it's great fun. The skaters will no doubt use the youth centre that will be built in the lovely refurbished Red Brick Building that I can see in my dreams.
Oh dear, Mr Budden, you were doing so well until you started explaining about why the Red Brick Building needs to be demolished. OK, it's a bit run down. Yes, the laws of gravity still apply so the kids who've been using it for a couple of years can fall over and hurt their poor widdle knees and they might cwy...
But honestly: lose their lives was laying it on a bit thick mate. You can lose your life crossing a busy road but people have the good sense to stay on the pavement! Get real.
So UrbanCrash Splash say it's too expensive to renovate them. How can we trust your words when you haven't published the engineer's reports - if they exist - and the sums too? You've admitted responsibility for SWRDAs lack of communication and now I challenge you, on behalf of the people of this wonderful town: publish the engineer's documents and the financial projections so we can all see if SWRDA speak with forked tongue.
Just to remind you, dear reader: the now-averted demolition was announced on December 23rd 2008, to start on January 5th 2009. To make things worse, the bloke at SWRDA who could respond to enquiries was on leave...until January 5th.
Mr Budden insisted that the slightly dubious timing was due to "practicality". I know there's been a flu bug going round but at that point I swear there's a lot of coughing on my recording. I almost wrote "please don't urinate down our backs and then tell us it's raining" but that would be a bit strong...
The calm, measured, chatty Mr Budden sat down again, and a councillor (Ian Tucker, I believe [correction: it was Mike Free]) stood up almost straight away. Was the public going to have the right to speak, he asked. No, said the Mayor. Then it's not a public meeting, said Cllr Free. They can speak at my discretion, said Mayor.
At this, Mr Budden's leg started twitching and he bounced up and down in his seat a bit as he explained what an awful free-for-all such a meeting would be, it would descend into chaos, and we'd all become flesh-eating zombies that would devour babies and small furry animals..ok, I made the last bit up. Mr Budden does not want questions from the floor. Mr Mayor might allow them...although nothing on my recording shows The Mayor retracting his statement. Wait and see.
So we're going to have a public meeting in a hurry. Never mind that we've got very little time for questions. Never mind that it's on a Wednesday and will probably miss the deadline for the next day's Central Somerset Gazette (yeah, we noticed that). Never mind that it's still a tad unclear whether there will be questions from the floor...and tuff luck, SWRDA, if there are.
It's about time someone asked where the 19 million quid went, and if we're ever going to see if the community benefits from it. We owe it to the people who raised the alarm and froze their teenage arses off to make the point which so many people in the town have been thinking, and grumbling, about: the Morlands site belongs to the townspeople and we deserve to have our say in its future.
The first bit of (possibly) dodgy dealing was in the formulation of the reason for the public meeting. Somehow point #14 on the agenda referred to "the situation regarding the red brick building" and not the whole site, as agreed at the meeting of Jan 13th. Check the video clips and press releases elsewhere on this blog if you're in doubt. Hazel Pegg noted this discrepancy and luckily it was cleared up: I would like to think it was a misunderstanding and not the work of a double agent in the council who's trying to play both sides against the middle. Check out Hanlon's Razor for an explanation, perhaps.
The Mayor kindly bumped agenda point #14 to the top of the list...so here we went.
Carl Budden, who takes care of regeneration for SWRDA in Somerset, spoke at length to the meeting. He had a few points to make after a bit of grovelling about SWRDAs failure to communicate and the mistrust it had fostered in the local community. They've decided to fix that, mostly by holding quarterly meetings with a revised executive group. Wait and see.
He also spoke about a closer liaisons with the Central Somerset Gazette. I wonder if they'll start buying loads of advertising space? I'll get back to the Gazette later.
Avalon Plastics, whose present factory adjoins the site, and who applied to build a factory on the site and were refused by the RDA, will soon be exchanging contracts with SWRDA. I'm not 100% sure but the word is that Avalon Plastics, after being snubbed by SWRDA, went through the normal planning process and effectively twisted SWRDA's arm...I'll have to check that out. Anyway, they're all best mates now and we should all buy SWRDA a drink or what?
The redbrick cottages (by The Beckery - not the Red Brick Buildings) will be transferred to Mendip Housing, but the original contractor has gone bust. They'll soon be appointing a new contractor - which I hope will be a local firm.
Developer Urban Splash are having difficulties, it seems (see earlier post). They're still involved with about 80,000 ft2 in the Baily and Bauhaus buildings but they still want to proceed.
The other developer, Priority Sites, are still involved but...you guessed it, are getting credit crunched. Maybe they can start work in May or June 2009. To quote a Danish wag: "It's hard to make predictions, especially about the future."
Strode College were mentioned by the dapper Mr Budden who was chatty and relaxed...most of the time. Something about a skills and training centre was mentioned and the soon-to-be-rebuilt-after-an-oh-so-embarrassing-demolition Skate Park will be transferred to Mendip District Council so the RDA don't get sued for the inevitable broken heads and elbows. Just kidding. I used to ride a skateboard when I was 17 and it's great fun. The skaters will no doubt use the youth centre that will be built in the lovely refurbished Red Brick Building that I can see in my dreams.
Oh dear, Mr Budden, you were doing so well until you started explaining about why the Red Brick Building needs to be demolished. OK, it's a bit run down. Yes, the laws of gravity still apply so the kids who've been using it for a couple of years can fall over and hurt their poor widdle knees and they might cwy...
But honestly: lose their lives was laying it on a bit thick mate. You can lose your life crossing a busy road but people have the good sense to stay on the pavement! Get real.
So Urban
Just to remind you, dear reader: the now-averted demolition was announced on December 23rd 2008, to start on January 5th 2009. To make things worse, the bloke at SWRDA who could respond to enquiries was on leave...until January 5th.
Mr Budden insisted that the slightly dubious timing was due to "practicality". I know there's been a flu bug going round but at that point I swear there's a lot of coughing on my recording. I almost wrote "please don't urinate down our backs and then tell us it's raining" but that would be a bit strong...
The calm, measured, chatty Mr Budden sat down again, and a councillor (Ian Tucker, I believe [correction: it was Mike Free]) stood up almost straight away. Was the public going to have the right to speak, he asked. No, said the Mayor. Then it's not a public meeting, said Cllr Free. They can speak at my discretion, said Mayor.
At this, Mr Budden's leg started twitching and he bounced up and down in his seat a bit as he explained what an awful free-for-all such a meeting would be, it would descend into chaos, and we'd all become flesh-eating zombies that would devour babies and small furry animals..ok, I made the last bit up. Mr Budden does not want questions from the floor. Mr Mayor might allow them...although nothing on my recording shows The Mayor retracting his statement. Wait and see.
So we're going to have a public meeting in a hurry. Never mind that we've got very little time for questions. Never mind that it's on a Wednesday and will probably miss the deadline for the next day's Central Somerset Gazette (yeah, we noticed that). Never mind that it's still a tad unclear whether there will be questions from the floor...and tuff luck, SWRDA, if there are.
It's about time someone asked where the 19 million quid went, and if we're ever going to see if the community benefits from it. We owe it to the people who raised the alarm and froze their teenage arses off to make the point which so many people in the town have been thinking, and grumbling, about: the Morlands site belongs to the townspeople and we deserve to have our say in its future.
Alan Gloak clears a few things up
Posted on Gwell, a Glastonbury online slanging match discussion forum:
At the Town Council meeting on the 13th of January, two points were made by the SWRDA which I wish to refute.
1. That there is a regular meeting between the SWRDA and the County Council. By implication it may have seemed to those present that I was a member of the group, may I through your letter page make it clear that I AM NOT a member of this group.
2. The SWRDA inferred that the Red Brick building was in a perilous state and needed to be demolished. Not True. I visited this building on Sunday the 11th, the building is in the state you would expect any building which had no attention paid to it for 20 odd years, broken windows, tiles off the roof in parts all which can be replaced and repaired. Result a weather proof building which then is ready for refurbishment. This work can be carried out by local firms who would be pleased of the work. The cottages in Beckery are now to be handed to Mendip Housing for refurbishment, major work will be required on these. I urge the SWRDA and Mendip Housing to ensure that this work is undertaken by local i.e. Glastonbury, firms to not let the opportunity of support for local companies go.
At the Town Council meeting on the 13th of January, two points were made by the SWRDA which I wish to refute.
1. That there is a regular meeting between the SWRDA and the County Council. By implication it may have seemed to those present that I was a member of the group, may I through your letter page make it clear that I AM NOT a member of this group.
2. The SWRDA inferred that the Red Brick building was in a perilous state and needed to be demolished. Not True. I visited this building on Sunday the 11th, the building is in the state you would expect any building which had no attention paid to it for 20 odd years, broken windows, tiles off the roof in parts all which can be replaced and repaired. Result a weather proof building which then is ready for refurbishment. This work can be carried out by local firms who would be pleased of the work. The cottages in Beckery are now to be handed to Mendip Housing for refurbishment, major work will be required on these. I urge the SWRDA and Mendip Housing to ensure that this work is undertaken by local i.e. Glastonbury, firms to not let the opportunity of support for local companies go.
Glastonbury Town Council agrees to public meeting about Morlands site
Glastonbury Town Council have today agreed to hold a public meeting - in reality an extraordinary council meeting - which representatives from SWRDA will attend, in order to discuss the future of the Morlands site. The meeting will be held on Wednesday January 21st at 7pm in the Town Hall.
Written questions from the public will be allowed: deadline for delivery is January 19th. Questions are to be delivered to the Town Clerk whose office at the Town Hall is open between 10am and noon, Monday - Friday. Questions can also be sent via email to glastonburytowncouncil@townhall.fsbusiness.co.uk
It wasn't entirely clear, but questions from the floor may be allowed at the Mayor's discretion.
More to come later after I've listened to the recording I made of the discussion.
Written questions from the public will be allowed: deadline for delivery is January 19th. Questions are to be delivered to the Town Clerk whose office at the Town Hall is open between 10am and noon, Monday - Friday. Questions can also be sent via email to glastonburytowncouncil@townhall.fsbusiness.co.uk
It wasn't entirely clear, but questions from the floor may be allowed at the Mayor's discretion.
More to come later after I've listened to the recording I made of the discussion.
More press coverage
I thought this blogger's life would get easier after the protest ended, but no: if anything, there's more to report.
Western Daily Press:
Protesters win reprieve for historic Glastonbury industrial building
January 12 2009
Quote:
"Sit-in protesters are packing up their sleeping bags and moving out of a crumbling factory after people power won an historic industrial site a stay of execution.
Campaigners against the demolition of Morlands in Glastonbury hailed a last-minute meeting with the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) a victory for everyone involved after the Government body agreed to hold back bulldozers until a public meeting is organised to discuss the future of the brownfield site and local landmark.
Protesters moved in to protect their industrial heritage after planners decided they could not afford to convert the iconic site and would demolish it.
But the RDA has opted to hold fire on its unpopular plans after talking to campaigners yesterday.
It will now hold an open meeting, in conjunction with Glastonbury Town Council, to allow the community and civic leaders to have their say on how they want the site to be used."
Western Daily Press:
Protesters win reprieve for historic Glastonbury industrial building
January 12 2009
Quote:
"Sit-in protesters are packing up their sleeping bags and moving out of a crumbling factory after people power won an historic industrial site a stay of execution.
Campaigners against the demolition of Morlands in Glastonbury hailed a last-minute meeting with the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) a victory for everyone involved after the Government body agreed to hold back bulldozers until a public meeting is organised to discuss the future of the brownfield site and local landmark.
Protesters moved in to protect their industrial heritage after planners decided they could not afford to convert the iconic site and would demolish it.
But the RDA has opted to hold fire on its unpopular plans after talking to campaigners yesterday.
It will now hold an open meeting, in conjunction with Glastonbury Town Council, to allow the community and civic leaders to have their say on how they want the site to be used."
It started with a Google search...
for David Heathcote-Amory (our local MP, Tory) which yielded some interesting links:
The Guardian's "Ask Aristotle", likewise his registered interests (property, hotels, agricultural machinery).
I suppose the guy's got to make a living somehow...even though he gets paid well as an MP.
Here's his Wikipedia page.
He's got a website: www.davidheathcoatamory.co.uk where you can search his press releases...which I did for the term "Morlands":
Feb 2007: MP Queries Regional Development Agency’s Claim to Support Local Enterprise
Dec 2005: MP continues fight to give Morlands back to local people
Nov 2005: MP Slams RDA Decision To Exclude Avalon Plastics From Morlands Park
He's not happy with what's going on at Morlands either.
He also said this today (via email):
Thank you for your email about the Morlands site. I am still awaiting a response from the National Audit office about whether they
will investigate this site. I am keeping a very close eye on developments but do not plan to visit the site again the in the near future.
David Heathcoat-Amory
The best bit: along the way, I stumbled upon 3 excellent websites:
TheyWorkForYou.com, HearFromYourMP.com, and FixMyStreet.com. No, I'm not going to tell you what you can do on them so you're going to have to visit the sites yourself :)
They're all run by MySociety.org, who have several other projects too. They left me thinking "Now why didn't I think of that?". Good stuff!
The Guardian's "Ask Aristotle", likewise his registered interests (property, hotels, agricultural machinery).
I suppose the guy's got to make a living somehow...even though he gets paid well as an MP.
Here's his Wikipedia page.
He's got a website: www.davidheathcoatamory.co.uk where you can search his press releases...which I did for the term "Morlands":
Feb 2007: MP Queries Regional Development Agency’s Claim to Support Local Enterprise
Dec 2005: MP continues fight to give Morlands back to local people
Nov 2005: MP Slams RDA Decision To Exclude Avalon Plastics From Morlands Park
He's not happy with what's going on at Morlands either.
He also said this today (via email):
Thank you for your email about the Morlands site. I am still awaiting a response from the National Audit office about whether they
will investigate this site. I am keeping a very close eye on developments but do not plan to visit the site again the in the near future.
David Heathcoat-Amory
The best bit: along the way, I stumbled upon 3 excellent websites:
TheyWorkForYou.com, HearFromYourMP.com, and FixMyStreet.com. No, I'm not going to tell you what you can do on them so you're going to have to visit the sites yourself :)
They're all run by MySociety.org, who have several other projects too. They left me thinking "Now why didn't I think of that?". Good stuff!
SWRDA in the news
SWRDA is also in the news and it's not all Shiny Happy People either.
Dunno how I missed this one before now but here you go:
Development agency 'wasted cash courting political support'
December 29 2008
Quote:
"SOUTH West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) bosses have been accused of wasting taxpayers’ money at this year’s party political conferences.
According to the Taxpayers’ Alliance, the agency spent £53,149 attending Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative conferences.
Research carried out by the alliance found that over the three main party conferences, the country’s nine RDAs spent more than £285,000 on hotel rooms, reimbursing staff for expenses and buying security passes.
The alliance said the RDAs also paid for “expensive events in an attempt to attract political support”."
Maybe if they spent more time and energy talking to local people then they wouldn't get into that kind of trouble. It's our money they're spending.
It looks like they've got their hands on £1bn too:
Firms in line for share of £1bn 'rescue' fund
January 12 2009
Quote:
"SMALL Westcountry businesses could be thrown a lifeline this week if the Government announces details of a £1 billion industry "rescue" fund.
Sources suggest Business Secretary Lord Mandelson is shortly to make clear how struggling firms can borrow between £1,000 and £1 million through the Small Business Finance Scheme, and details of the cash available could be made public this week.
While the fund will be open to businesses across the UK, it seems likely the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) will play a central role in attempting to administer the money to Devon and Cornwall businesses.
The idea of the scheme, announced in November's pre-Budget report, is to offer working capital to solid firms struggling to borrow money in the credit squeeze."
Now that's nice. SWRDA gets a huge pot of money to help...who? Dare I suggest that Urban Splash and Priority Sites might get some dosh? Simon Fairlie mentioned something about "cronies in the construction industry," didn't he?
Let's hope they don't spend it on party conference lobbying and press junkets.
Anyway, if I spend £19m of public money for little result, do I get to meet The Queen?
Region's finest recognised for their service
December 31 2008
Quote:
"In the world of business, Nick Buckland, the deputy chief executive of the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) was awarded the OBE for serves [sic] to technology and innovation."
Maybe they should award gongs for autocracy and unnecessary demolition.
Dunno how I missed this one before now but here you go:
Development agency 'wasted cash courting political support'
December 29 2008
Quote:
"SOUTH West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) bosses have been accused of wasting taxpayers’ money at this year’s party political conferences.
According to the Taxpayers’ Alliance, the agency spent £53,149 attending Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative conferences.
Research carried out by the alliance found that over the three main party conferences, the country’s nine RDAs spent more than £285,000 on hotel rooms, reimbursing staff for expenses and buying security passes.
The alliance said the RDAs also paid for “expensive events in an attempt to attract political support”."
Maybe if they spent more time and energy talking to local people then they wouldn't get into that kind of trouble. It's our money they're spending.
It looks like they've got their hands on £1bn too:
Firms in line for share of £1bn 'rescue' fund
January 12 2009
Quote:
"SMALL Westcountry businesses could be thrown a lifeline this week if the Government announces details of a £1 billion industry "rescue" fund.
Sources suggest Business Secretary Lord Mandelson is shortly to make clear how struggling firms can borrow between £1,000 and £1 million through the Small Business Finance Scheme, and details of the cash available could be made public this week.
While the fund will be open to businesses across the UK, it seems likely the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) will play a central role in attempting to administer the money to Devon and Cornwall businesses.
The idea of the scheme, announced in November's pre-Budget report, is to offer working capital to solid firms struggling to borrow money in the credit squeeze."
Now that's nice. SWRDA gets a huge pot of money to help...who? Dare I suggest that Urban Splash and Priority Sites might get some dosh? Simon Fairlie mentioned something about "cronies in the construction industry," didn't he?
Let's hope they don't spend it on party conference lobbying and press junkets.
Anyway, if I spend £19m of public money for little result, do I get to meet The Queen?
Region's finest recognised for their service
December 31 2008
Quote:
"In the world of business, Nick Buckland, the deputy chief executive of the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) was awarded the OBE for serves [sic] to technology and innovation."
Maybe they should award gongs for autocracy and unnecessary demolition.
Morlands in the news - again
More news around and about: it's mainly from newsfeeds and 'the wires' (press agency info for journalists) so there's hardly any new info. However, it's interesting to see the breadth of coverage.
- Northern Ireland:
Agency To Meet Glastonbury Protesters
Agency And Protesters At Morlands Agree 'Way Forward'
- Auntie Beeb:
Plan for talks over protest row
Group agrees to vacate building
Worthing Herald
Protesters to leave derelict factory
Not much news for readers of this blog but perhaps surprising that this very small protest has generated interest around and about.
- Northern Ireland:
Agency To Meet Glastonbury Protesters
Agency And Protesters At Morlands Agree 'Way Forward'
- Auntie Beeb:
Plan for talks over protest row
Group agrees to vacate building
Worthing Herald
Protesters to leave derelict factory
Not much news for readers of this blog but perhaps surprising that this very small protest has generated interest around and about.
You can ask Mendip District Council about Morlands
From Mendip District Council's website:
Question Time in Mendip
Residents of Mendip will have the opportunity to question leading
local politicians face to face in a special event taking place at
Mendip District Council offices in Shepton Mallet on 14 January from
6pm to 8pm.
Top representatives from Somerset County Council and Mendip District
Council will form a joint panel at a "Question Time" style event,
where people can ask questions about any of the services they provide,
including: adult care, recycling, education, housing, public
transport, planning, leisure, highways, waste collection and disposal,
recreation and community facilities, benefits, and community safety.
Somerset County Council's Executive Board meeting is also taking place
at 2pm on 14 January in the same venue.
Councillor Harvey Siggs, Leader of Mendip District Council, commented:
"It's important that residents across Mendip have the opportunity to
question those who they elected to work within their communities. The
district and county councils provide a wide array of services and it
would be encouraging to see plenty of people taking part in this event
and showing their interest in the work of local authorities in
Somerset.
"There is often confusion about who delivers what services in the
county, but that is not always important to residents. However, what
is important is that they have the chance to question those who they
elected to represent them regardless of the service that's offered or
the council that they belong to."
Councillor Jill Shortland, Leader of Somerset County Council, said:
"This evening event will be a great opportunity for people in Mendip
to ask questions about the issues that concern them. I'm certain there
will be plenty to discuss and this event shows that both councils are
serious about listening to local people and improving all the services
that we deliver."
For information on how to submit a question, or for further details,
go to www.somerset.gov.uk or contact Scott Wooldridge, Community
Governance, Somerset County Council, 01823 356748 or
swooldridge@somerset.gov.uk
http://www.mendip.gov.uk/NewsArticle.asp?id=SX9452-A782A434.
To my knowledge, none of our local councillors have spoken out about the Morlands site recently.
Question Time in Mendip
Residents of Mendip will have the opportunity to question leading
local politicians face to face in a special event taking place at
Mendip District Council offices in Shepton Mallet on 14 January from
6pm to 8pm.
Top representatives from Somerset County Council and Mendip District
Council will form a joint panel at a "Question Time" style event,
where people can ask questions about any of the services they provide,
including: adult care, recycling, education, housing, public
transport, planning, leisure, highways, waste collection and disposal,
recreation and community facilities, benefits, and community safety.
Somerset County Council's Executive Board meeting is also taking place
at 2pm on 14 January in the same venue.
Councillor Harvey Siggs, Leader of Mendip District Council, commented:
"It's important that residents across Mendip have the opportunity to
question those who they elected to work within their communities. The
district and county councils provide a wide array of services and it
would be encouraging to see plenty of people taking part in this event
and showing their interest in the work of local authorities in
Somerset.
"There is often confusion about who delivers what services in the
county, but that is not always important to residents. However, what
is important is that they have the chance to question those who they
elected to represent them regardless of the service that's offered or
the council that they belong to."
Councillor Jill Shortland, Leader of Somerset County Council, said:
"This evening event will be a great opportunity for people in Mendip
to ask questions about the issues that concern them. I'm certain there
will be plenty to discuss and this event shows that both councils are
serious about listening to local people and improving all the services
that we deliver."
For information on how to submit a question, or for further details,
go to www.somerset.gov.uk or contact Scott Wooldridge, Community
Governance, Somerset County Council, 01823 356748 or
swooldridge@somerset.gov.uk
http://www.mendip.gov.uk/NewsArticle.asp?id=SX9452-A782A434.
To my knowledge, none of our local councillors have spoken out about the Morlands site recently.
Monday, 12 January 2009
Phew!
I'm guessing you can see from the latest posts that the crisis has been averted. It's been a busy week for all of us: not least for barefootreporter. 45 posts of this nature in a week is pretty heavy going and I'm knackered.
The next few weeks will be about consolidating the progress that's been made: I'd like to help this process. There will be less news to report, but that means a chance to take a deeper look at what's gone before and what might come. The Morlands Crew will no doubt be making a proposal regarding the future use of the red brick building. I'd like to look into the history of Morlands as a whole: look forward to some interviews with people who worked there.
So here's a call for assistance. If you know anything about the Morlands site and its history, or have any visions for what might happen here in future, and would like to comment, please feel free to contact me here: rchisnallATgmailDOTcom.
Have fun! I'm off to get some rest.
barefootreporter
The next few weeks will be about consolidating the progress that's been made: I'd like to help this process. There will be less news to report, but that means a chance to take a deeper look at what's gone before and what might come. The Morlands Crew will no doubt be making a proposal regarding the future use of the red brick building. I'd like to look into the history of Morlands as a whole: look forward to some interviews with people who worked there.
So here's a call for assistance. If you know anything about the Morlands site and its history, or have any visions for what might happen here in future, and would like to comment, please feel free to contact me here: rchisnallATgmailDOTcom.
Have fun! I'm off to get some rest.
barefootreporter
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