Continuing our sequence of virtual meetings, the October meeting was held without participation from any members of the public.
Two planning applications were considered, both for agricultural purposes. The first for installation of silage clamps and feed hoppers at Slough Court provoked discussion around the visual impact of this installation. While it was recognised that this application will have little or no impact on vehicle movements, contributing mainly to internal efficiencies, concern was expressed that due to the height of the silos they will be widely visible, despite being located on the far Eastern boundary of the site. It was resolved not to comment on this application but to register concerns around visibility. The second application was for prenotification of an extension to an agricultural building at Meare Green Farm. As this will improve the current aspect, as well as reducing wastage, the PC supported this application.
Both applications and indeed all other applications are likely to be impacted by special consideration of the impact of phosphates in run-off which has caused an unprecedented accumulation on the levels and moors. Further information around this subject will be reported as the implications become clearer.
At the time of the meeting, cases of C19 have tripled in the previous 10 days in the County. There are pockets of outbreaks emerging and issues with people not isolating and still sending their children to school – the complacency of some members of the public poses a real challenge. Death rates are still low, but hospital admissions are on the increase. The virus is rapidly spreading across the County. Please heed the advice being given.
As the ‘One Somerset’ vs. ‘Stronger Somerset’ discussion rumbles on, Somerset has been chosen as one of three authorities which will be considered for unitary status before the end of the year by the Secretary of State. While the PC has contributed to this discussion and tried to distil meaningful detail from the competing proposals there is a sentiment that we will be left to work with whichever case prevails.
Following the strong response to a proposal that the speed limit in Meare Green be reduced to 30mph, a speed monitored was installed on October 5th and gathered data on all movements until Oct 14th. Details of the data gathered have been requested in order to determine what action needs to be taken
A new memorial plaque has been installed at the new pavilion bearing the same inscription as the stone at the playing field entrance. This new plaque will provide the point of focus for the Remembrance Day Service in November, but the exact form this will take will be subject to guidance at the time.
The Somerset Climate Emergency Community Fund is now open for applications. All applications need to be made through the PC on the SCC dedicated web site. If any residents or local groups have a project which they feel could reduce their carbon footprint, they should visit the SCC Climate Emergency Community Fund Webpage for terms of eligibility. Grants range between £5,000 – £75,000. To meet the cut-off date for applications they should submit applications to the Parish Clerk or Chairman on or before the 5th November
Finally, Ian Upshall, has but together a Stoke St Gregory which is a comprehensive guide to all aspects of life in Stoke St Gregory and can be used by current and future residents alike. While this work has ben undertaken independently of the PC, the PC does wish to place on record it’s thanks to Ian for this valuable piece of work. Following publication copies will be available in the shop at a price of £1.