Needham Parish Council

 meeting 21 November 2016

A well attended public forum held before the Parish Council meeting raised a number of issues that concern us all.  A report was received from a resident of thefts in the village from a store of firewood.  The cost of firewood has risen hugely in the last few years which makes it a lucrative target.  Stores of firewood are often in the open and away from the house making them difficult to secure, but it is worth looking at your security arrangements to see what can be done to deter potential thieves.  If you have clear evidence that wood has been taken it should be reported to the police.  A report was also received of aggressive behaviour by doorstep scammers.  This is a problem that is particularly targeted at the elderly.  There is a separate article in this edition of the Link with advice on this matter.  

Other residents at the meeting sought advice from Parish Councillors on a persistent humming noise and on a planning application, which is a reminder that it is part of a Parish Councillors role to improve the quality of life and the environment in their area.

At the Parish Council meeting I was able to report that the joint acquisition with Brockdish of a SAM 2 speed machine is back on track.  It is expected it will be available next spring.  The meeting also discussed the dual problem of lack of early morning buses into Harleston that compels residents to walk into town and the hazard of crossing the A143 at the roundabout.  Initial response from the Highways Authority to improving the crossing was negative but we shall write again to ask if it is possible for the Parish Council to contribute funds towards, at the very least, improved white lining and also to Simmonds who now run the 581 Bus.  

A draft of an electoral review of South Norfolk has recommended that Needham should be relocated in the District Council that includes Harleston, Redenhall and Wortwell.  The Parish Council will be writing to object strongly as we have far more in common with Brockdish and adjoining villages.  Should you also wish to make an objection you can do so by logging onto www.consultation.lgbce.org.uk.

And a reminder that a casual vacancy again exists for a new Parish Councillor.  The next meeting will be held on Monday 16 January when we shall be setting the precept for the coming year. 

Andrew Major, Chairman