The Parish Council meeting on Monday 14 October was well attended as always. The police report this month details a few minor events none of which resulted in injuries to people, fortunately, although the deer hit by a vehicle may still be feeling a little sore. The government has recently increased police funding and Surrey Police are on a recruitment drive. By the time you read this newsletter a police careers event will have taken place at Dorking Halls. Who knows, maybe one day we will again see a police officer riding a bicycle around the village, keeping in touch with residents on a regular basis.
The road safety survey was discussed. This asks for residents’ views and preferences about several proposals. The survey will be delivered to all residents shortly and everyone is encouraged to complete the form. The forms may be returned to collection boxes at various places, including Bob’s Shop and the Surrey Oaks pub, or emailed to me. One of the measures that can improve road safety and reduce speeds is a Speedwatch scheme. At least 6 volunteers would be needed and training including the necessary equipment is provided. The police must also ensure that the various locations chosen to set up and monitor speeds are safe.
Allocation of extra funding received by the Parish Council from the Community Infrastructure Levy was discussed by the Finance Committee at its meeting the previous week. These suggestions were agreed by the full Council as follows: (i) set-up costs for a voluntary car scheme to help villagers no longer able to drive; (ii) funding to restore pathways at the Newdigate Brickworks Nature Reserve which has fallen into a dilapidated state in recent years; (iii) outdoor gym equipment for the Community Centre; (iv) traffic calming measures; (v) a roof over the seat outside the Church.
A report was given about the Trig Street footpath upgrade to a bridleway. Agreement about who would be responsible for upkeep of a new bridleway is currently presenting an obstacle rather more challenging to overcome than the obstruction created by overgrown vegetation. Ways forward are under active consideration and it is hoped that the project will be able to proceed once the administrative difficulties are overcome and sufficient funding is raised. In the meantime, the training session by Surrey County Council for volunteer footpath wardens took place in September and several local people have now signed up as official volunteer wardens equipped and authorised to cut back overgrown vegetation and replace way signs on footpaths.
Gatwick expansion plans were discussed. If you wish to express your views about Gatwick Airport’s extension plans you can take part in a survey at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/R9N2WTV. CAGNE together with the Gatwick Environment Group are currently touring around with information about the expansion plans. If you see this newsletter in time, you could attend an event being held at Rusper, outside the village shop, on 26 October from 10 to 11am. On 2 November there is an event at Warnham, also outside the village shop, and from 9.30 to 11am on 9 November there is an all day stall at Horsham on the Carfax.
The next Meeting of the Parish Council is on Monday 11 November at 8pm in the Village Hall and you are welcome to attend.
Lesley Bignell, Clerk to the Council 15 October 2019
clerk@newdigateparishcouncil.gov.uk www.newdigateparishcouncil.gov.uk