A Councillor's Comments - May 2002

Due to circumstances beyond our Chairman’s control, yours truly sat in the hot seat at the Town Council meeting on Monday 8th April for that evening’s business.
On matters arising: Policing - There were 33 incidents in March, criminal damage, burglary, thefts from motor vehicles and an under 16 female was assaulted. Assault seems to he on the increase - a problem that concerns us all.
Commons working group - A face-to-face meeting with the Lord of the Manor has been suggested to determine responsibilities practical application & finance, until mutually beneficial solutions have been agreed. The Council will only meet basic financial obligations contained within the scheme of regulation. So watch this space.
The minutes of other committees were agreed, then the balance analysis up to the end of March, which was healthy.
Item 5 on the Agenda - Community Safety Partnership - The Way Forward. The new three year strategy was launched on 1st April. Priorities have been identified, three main ones being reducing crime, reducing the risk factors linked to crime & reassuring communities. The crime audit focused where this action should be. Ely, Soham, Littleport. A working group for Soham will be set up on 7th May, not just to talk shop but to organise positive action using all the resources available to combat crime disorder issues locally. A representative from Soham Town Council has been invited to become a part of this group. This leads into Agenda item 7 CCTV. - a preventative measure for our High St., Churchgate St., Fountain Lane & Red Lion Square. I am sure you are all aware that the systems are expected to be operational by the autumn as was always the case.
Jubilee Celebrations 2002 - Soham Town Council were unanimous in their vote to go forward with their commitments for that special day. it is intended, in conjunction with the Soham Benevolent Association to have a family Disco on the recreation ground from 7.30pm followed by a firework display at approximately 10.00pm. During the carnival a time capsule will be buried to commemorate the occasion and any contributions of memorabilia etc of the Queen’s reign will be greatly appreciated.
In correspondence, we were all thrilled to see the Parish Paths Partnership Bulletin had Soham’ s Millennium Walk on the front page plus a four page article written by Chris Turnbull Chairman of the Footpaths Society (Soham). It was a while ago, but it was great remembering that occasion. Cambridge County Council have informed us that resurfacing and repair works will be carried out during the summer on Prickwillow Road and Great Fen Road. Lastly, just another reminder about our Annual Town meeting on 13th May - see you there.

Anne Tuite
Soham Town Council - Vice Chairman