Council Cuttings September 2004

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It was apparent even before the Council Meeting proper got under way that we are not impressed by Mid Devon District Council, and in particular, their planning department. A woeful story emerged from an eminent local citizen regarding the Planners/the Developers/and the Tree. The tree, in spite of letters, supplications, expert advice etc. was felled taking with it an historic wall. That the shortage of planning staff is to be remedied by September 1st is no consolation. The Parish Council helped in every possible way but to no avail.

We might as well continue with this sad indictment of M.D.D.C. One of our very own District Councillors trotted out some extraordinary figures of expenditure per head of population. £3.50 for Tiverton, £3.45 for Crediton and for Cullompton 50p. Uffculme probably gets such a miniscule amount that it is not worth a mention. Perhaps they think that we are lucky to have the Tip. So we are not going to show any interest in the proposed Cullompton swimming pool even if it is renamed the Culm Valley pool. In fact Wellington is a much better bet even with the hazard of meeting the re-routed 92 bus. Described as 'an accident waiting to happen'.

The publicity regarding wobbly headstones at cemeteries has reached Uffculme and all our headstones are going to be scientifically inspected so that you may soon be able to enter the cemetery unafraid.

The sale of the public convenience site is now being considered by M.D.D.C. It seems hardly likely that a more central position could be found for a new modern toilet, possibly combined with Ashill's longing for a secure place to leave cycles.

Lloyd Maunder will be processing more organic chicken feed, less pellets which are the main source of the unpleasant smells. Sadly for some reason this will entail more lorry movements through the village.

The colours on the footpath map on the Co-op wall have faded but they will be re-coloured shortly. One little piece of information which perhaps may be of use to footpath walkers. Did you know that dairy bulls, unless surrounded by cows, are much more aggressive than beef bulls? Or perhaps it's the other way around. Either way, take care.

JBG