A Councillor's Comments - September 2000

It seems ages since I've put pen to paper, as there isn't an August Town Council meeting or a LodeStar. This might be old news for some, it was the 10th of July when we last met.
The June crime figures had risen somewhat, an increase from 11.5% in May to 13%. Theft from motor vehicles the main culprit, this was a trend throughout the East Cambridgeshire District. We must be more vigilant about leaving valuables in our cars. This was the last report from PC Tony Williams as he is now retiring. He thanked everyone for their support during his years with us. The Chairman, Lionel Hart, reciprocated all our thanks, it was recorded in the minutes as were condolences to the widow of past Councillor Mark Stevenson, affectionately remembered.
Churchgate Street improvements outside the old Grammar School are now beginning to take shape and the area is certainly enhanced!.
Have you seen it? - What's that? you say - our new basketball net and the court which has been marked out to standards. I understand the ladies' netball team will be using it too - no, not at the same time!
The A142 Fordham bypass has been approved, maps outlining the route are available to see at Council Offices in Soham and Ely.
The retail store in Clay Street planning application is approved and the appeal by Cliveden Estates has been withdrawn, but without the provision of a pedestrian link to the High Street. As to the archaeological report. Remains do survive on the site and were of the 10th Century and confirm a late Saxon presence. Unfortunately adverse ground conditions during excavation meant that some of the features could not be fully investigated but there is potential for remains dating from earlier periods surviving on the site. The County Archaeological Office strongly recommended a mitigation strategy be secured through the inclusion of a negative condition (pp.16 para. 30) in any planning consent. Further details can be obtained from ECDC Planning Department.
The review of Soham's Conservation area will take place in the autumn by John Selby, ECDC Conservation Officer.
All councillors voiced their opinion on the hanging baskets in the High Street "what a treat", "a joy to behold". "enhances the area" and many others. It was pointed out that residents private baskets further created an excellent ambience.
The Town Council voted to have a millennium time capsule - we were all delighted to hear that it had a 1,000 year guarantee - we will have to keep it safe.
At the next meeting of the Town Council we hope to have a report back regarding reopening of Soham Station, so watch this space.
I hope everyone has enjoyed our summer - I did glimpse the sun occasionally. I understand from experts that it's going to be a late summer, hopefully not too late or we will all miss it.

Anne Tuite
Soham Town Council - Vice Chairman