Parish Council Newsletter - October 2009

NEW COUNCILLOR FOR SHATTERFORD WARD: Following the resignation of Joy Grubb, Susan Rickhuss has been co-opted as a Councillor for the Shatterford Ward.

STREET LIGHTING ARLEY VILLAGE: One street light has already been replaced this year and the new lamp gives a much better light coverage. It is now proposed to replace the other five lamps with Victorian lanterns, which should greatly enhance the appearance of the village.

POWER CUTS, UPPER ARLEY: Complaints have been received from residents regarding the frequency of power cuts in the village. Central Networks have been contacted and advised that most faults of the high voltage overhead lines are of a transient nature, caused by lightening, windborne materials, trees, birds, etc. coming into contact with the lines. As these faults are of short duration, the protective equipment controlling the line operates immediately causing supplies to be interrupted. After a few seconds, if the fault current has been cleared, the equipment automatically restores the supplies to all customers, who are then only aware of the interruption when they have to reset electrical items. As a gesture of goodwill Winter Packs have been distributed to the elderly.

SHATTERFORD CROSS ROADS: Following the fatal accident earlier this year, the Parish council have been in constant communication with Worcestershire County Council Highways and other bodies to endeavour to calm speeding in the area. A Speed Activated sign is to be installed in December, which it is hoped will ease the problem.

CRIME REPORT: We are pleased to report that crime still remains at a low level in the area.

LENGTHSMAN NEWS: Ken Smith continues his excellent work in the Parish. The budget has been increased to £2,100 for the current year.

QUALITY PARISH STATUS: This was achieved in March 2009, and the Council is now adhering to the standards set to offer the most competent service to all parishioners.

POWER OF WELL BEING: This power was formally adopted in September, following training for all Councillors and the Clerk.