Leek Town Council General Meeting November 2019
*Reports
Allotments
Rent for 2020 set at £35 for a full plot and £17.50 for a half plot. Payment by bank transfer or standing order. Payment by cash will no longer be accepted.
Events
Members met the district council’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG) on 16th October to discuss the Christmas lights event. SAG recommended the introduction of a child safety policy and to employ professional security guards. Therefore, due to the lack of response for volunteer marshals, security guards were employed for the Christmas Lights and Remembrance Sunday events.
Cllr. Matt Swindlehurst will be meeting with Leek Royal British Legion’s to discuss their events in 2020.
It was stated that the Royal British Legion (RBL) website indicates that: RBL is the guardian of Remembrance and it is the responsibility of the local branch to organise Remembrance Sunday.
Trestle Market – A meeting was held with officers from the district council and it is hoped that the Trestle Market will be made available for a variety of events in 2020.
Leek Show – A group of people would like to help with the continuity of Leek Show and Cllr. Molson and Cllr. Ottewell have offered their support.
It was resolved that: ‘This Town Council supports the endeavours of the people who would like Leek Show to continue. The Council will offer encouragement and lobby to support the work of the show’s supporters.’
New website – The winners of the photo competition have been published and good progress is being made.
Friends of the Nicholson War Memorial
Cllr. Benefer’s report was received, regarding the maintenance of the Nicholson War Memorial and the commemoration of its centenary in 2025. It was stated that a condition survey would be needed before the cost of restoration work can be established.
Neighbourhood Plan
The report from Lesley Roberts was received. Local schools are enthusiastic and 57 people attended a public meeting on 18th November to discuss the AECOM design brief for the Mount.
Leek Moorlands Hospital
The decision regarding the hospital will not be made public until after the General Election. It was stated that some of the staff from Leek Moorlands Hospital have had to move to Bradwell Hospital in order to keep their jobs and some staff have not been treated well. Lesley Roberts is a governor for Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust and will report these issues.
Twinning
The Pumpkin Festival was a success and may become an annual event. Our visitors from Este had really enjoyed their visit.
Russell Street
Awaiting information from Staffordshire County Council regarding pipes etc beneath the Russell Street site. A design specification will be drawn up in the new year.
Climate Change
Reports from meetings held in October and November meetings were received. Discussion between the Bee Friendly Trust and DEFRA are on hold until after the General Election. Borders of the former railway track from Leek To Rudyard have been proposed as a friendly habitat for pollinators.