Syston Town Council News

Some five members of the public attended the monthly meeting held on 22nd December.
Matters raised by the public
Request that all councillors use the microphones as it is difficult to hear what is being discussed when not used. Mr Henshaw queried the understanding of the precept as he had attended a meeting where it was apparent that members of the council didn’t understand it. Councillor Midgely responded and assured the public that all council members where now fully aware. The other point raised concerned was salt/gritting of pavements, as some areas where untreated and dangerous for all ages. Councillor Pacey explained that he had seen reports about non-treating of pavements in Leicester and said that the main problem for every area was the amount of manpower available to do this, roads take priority. It is Leicestershire County Council Highways department who undertake this.
Chairman’s Announcements
The community was out in force on 5th when the festive lights were switched on. Everything was against us, in the planning, preparation, and then, on the day, the weather. The people of Syston made it clear by their attendance that this is something they want. He thanked the Events Panel, the Chamber of Trade and the Round Table who all worked incredibly hard, and also to Allan Clarke, his wife Alison and Chris for all their efforts. He hoped for better weather next year. Incredibly the collection raised £308 for SSAFA.
His sponsored beard-shave a couple of weeks ago was very successful, except that none of his family like him without a beard so it’s on its way back, and has raised over £1,400 for SSAFA. He gave warm thanks to those on the Council who have sponsored him, and stated that the account is still open for anyone who would like to do so.
He said that since becoming Chairman, he has become aware of the positive role that organisations like the Chamber of Trade and Round Table play in our community, and it was with pleasure that he, together with Janet, Rita Gray, Tom and Ann Barkley, and Allan and Alison Clarke, attended the Chamber of Trade Christmas celebrations on Saturday 19th December. He reiterated that these links are very beneficial to all concerned.
Finally, he wished everyone in attendance a very Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Police report
Burglaries of dwellings down to nine from 17 in the previous month, with suspects having been arrested, five burglaries of non-dwellings. Thefts were up to seven from three and are under investigation. Six thefts from vehicles reported. Store theft also up to four which is an increase of 50% could reflect the time of year. Criminal damage increased by one but vehicle damage was down from last period, may be due to increase in patrols having a positive effect. Two main targets set; one is to reduce the Anti-social behaviour in Central Park and the Town Square, the other to reduce burglaries of dwellings. The council was asked to provide any other proposals before February. Antisocial behaviour calls were 54 in December. CCTV camera 360^o very clear and is monitoring Friday nights. Neighbourhood watch meeting has been arranged for 7th February at 7.00pm in the community centre.
Councillor Ken Pacey asked if vehicles parking fully on the pavement on corners/junctions of roads which were causing a reduction of visibility could be added to the targets. Carly Adams said she would note this and report back.
The council thanked the Police regarding an incident in Chapel Close for their quick response and the way in which they dealt with it. Asked if they controlled the camera in the Town square, this is owned by the Town square and the council would write and enquire about linking it into the Charnwood Borough council facility.
Pavilion Showers
The council approved the quote from the plumber and asked that the work be carried out as soon as possible.
Precept for 2010/11
After discussion about the precept and the accounts and the difference between the two and having been to Southfields and had the process checked, they could now have confidence that this was being done correctly. It was agreed by the council and councillor Midgley thanked the member of public for raising the matter and Allan for producing the figures.
County/Borough Councillors report
Councillor Steve Hampson talked about conservation and explained this lesser known service provided and what that involves in Charnwood. He talked about the listed building, for which Syston has nearly 200 of the 1000 listed in the borough. He also said that the Borough had received a top regional award for e-enabling, ie communication.
Councillor Tom Barkley said that Charnwood Borough finances were considered good and that they had also received a national award for dealing with homelessness through ‘The Bridge’.
Safety awareness campaign reminding people to lock doors and keep belongings out of sight in vehicles. Brown Bin offer to recycle Christmas trees free to current and new subscribers to this service.
He also commented on the good working relations between the council and the chamber of trade for the people of Syston.
Councillor Ken Pacey reported that a recent application for extensions to building had included extension to the business’s licence and that because it had gone to London and they had approved it, the council could not object to the licence extension. He recommended in future that there was a need to separate the two applications to avoid a repeat in the future.
Parking issues report due in the New Year and it could be used in Syston where there are any problems.