Syston Town News » Syston Town Council report

Syston Town Council May Report by Syston Town News

admin — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 04:01:17 +0000

Annual Town Meeting
The annual town meeting took place on Wednesday 26th May at 7.00pm with six members of the public in attendance. Councillor Howard Midgely gave his report for 2009/2010 with the aid of powerpoint illustrations linked to items in the report. He commenced by saying he had been privileged to serve as the Chairman over the last year and because he was working full-time had sometimes found it difficult to attend all events and so thanked Councillors K. Pacey and J. Branston for standing in when he couldn’t attend, in their role as vice-chairmen.
Following the retirement of Ian McDonald, Allan Clarke had been appointed as Town Manager and had settled in well. He was in the process of restructuring the staff due to the loss of the part-time Deputy Town Manager post but he has recruited a full-time Office Manager. He also praised the work that Barry Bedford had done as Estates Manager, giving a long period of faithful service and that he was sorry to lose him. He went on to say that he had tried to be more embracing with the community by encouraging the public to use their right of 15 minutes at the beginning of the full council meeting each month. He had also been active in meeting with local groups as he believes that the council is there to serve the people and not dictate to them. He has worked closely with the Chamber of Trade, Syston in Bloom and the Syston Twinning and had purchased a small gift which they took to Deville at the beginning of May in celebration of 30 years of Twinning. He recalled the events that he had attended throughout the year including the Remembrance Sunday parade, armed Forces Day service, Civic service and the ATC annual parade. The civic reception had been well attended with a general feeling that this should be an annual event. The Carnival and Christmas events were well supported by the residents of Syston and Councillors alike. He thanked the Syston Town News for the positive press it gives to the Town Council and its activities. He felt that they needed to promote themselves more and help improve the town further. He finished by thanking all the staff and councillors as without them none of the above would have been achieved. He said that it was down to their hard work, time given and care for the town that had enabled such a lot to have been achieved in the last year. He finished by saying how proud and privileged he felt for having worked with all of them.
The reports from the committees were given and all reviewed the year which showed how hard the councillors work for our town and perhaps we residents do not fully appreciate the time some of the councillors give to their roles. Each Chairman thanked their committee members and staff and voluntary groups for their help and loyalty.

Town Council Meeting
This followed the annual town meeting at 7.30pm and commenced with the nominations and election of Chairman. Councillor Howard Midgley having stated that he would be willing to offer himself for a further term of office was re-elected by a large majority in favour.
He then began the formal meeting by asking for councillors and public to stand for the bidding and then the election of the vice -chairman when Councillor Josie Branston was
re-elected.

Chairman’s announcements and communications
Syston Twinning had written to thank the council for the engraved bowl which was presented on behalf of the council by Keith Gregory and received a Jug from the Mayor of Deville to Syston Twinning, which is now on display in the reception area. They also said that the Deville twinning association were looking forward to their visit to Syston next May.
Leicestershire County Council had written to say that they would be switching off lights on the A607 bypass between 12midnight and 5.00am from 28th May as part of their cost saving activities.

Police report for April 2010
PC Carly Adams reported that there had been two burglaries of dwellings, the same as the previous month. There was also two burglaries of non-residential properties, reduction on the previous month. There had been 10 thefts in the town which showed a doubling of the the previous month. One suspect had been arrested and three were still under investigation. Thefts from motor vehicles were four, down slightly on the previous month. Two of these thefts where from vehicles parked at the train station and so extra patrols will be put in this area. Store thefts reported was one and it is still under investigation. Criminal damage both to property and vehicles had reduced by over 50% on the previous month, which is excellent. Some of the crimes are still under investigation. Anti-social behaviour calls also down on the previous month to 33. The Friday and Saturday nights the
Anti-social van will continue to be around the town.

Public adjournment
Two points were raised. Firstly a request for an update on the car parking issue raised in January on central park, as the notice boards have as yet not been updated and also the codicil with the bowling club. The town manager said he was currently looking at the law before completing any amendments. The second related to the fact that Syston had not been suffering from any flood over the winter and no one had mentioned the Levelling lake that had been created by the construction companies as part of their planning for erected the houses on Barkby Road. The lake is situated behind Ruskin Avenue and although not accessible to the public, it can be viewed by the residents from their gardens and provides an excellent protection for properties in the town.

Community Speed Watch
It was hoped to bring this to the town and anyone who would like leaflets should contact the council office.

County and Borough Councillors report
Councillor Mike Preston said that he had been on Radio Leicester about the reflective bollards at the Hobby Horse roundabout. Changes to lighting levels will produce a saving of nearly £1 million. The change in government will bring about radical changes to local development building and so the proposed 5,000 houses may not proceed.
Councillor Dave Houseman gave congratulations to both Howard and Jose for their re-election and then gave a brief account of his annual report, see supplement with the July Syston Town News.
Councillor Tom Barkley related the results of the turn out of the election with over 70% in Charnwood voting and 94% returning their postal votes. Their is a new Mayor of Charnwood, Jill Vincent and Steve Hampson added that she is available to attend any voluntary group events. Tom continued that the waste survey showed that over 90% gave a positive response to the collection of garden waste, and 86% satisfied with household waste collection. He also reported about the Active together events over the summer, including the cycling featured in the What’s on.
Councillor Steve Hampson reported that the work near the police station is now completed and time restricting the parking could take another two years to gain approval.
Councillor Ken Pacey reported that an investigation panel had been set up to determine the effectiveness of ASBO’s. He also asked that the street patrols checked cars parked at 9.00am in the main car park on Melton Road in order to enforce the two hour restriction more effectively, as they can only monitor from the time they check and if they only check at 11.00am then there can be an abuse of the restriction.

Syston Town News Report on Full Council meeting April 2010

admin — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 04:01:40 +0000

The monthly meeting of the full council was held on Tuesday 27th April and was opened by the Chairman Councillor Howard Midgley, who asked the five members of the public present if they had any matters they would like to raise. One question from Mr Henshaw related to the disposal of unused paint containers. He had made enquiries at Charnwood Borough Council and they had said that the only place to take these was Whetstone (Blaby RDC). He felt that this was unacceptable for residents of Syston and Charnwood and would force people to put redundant tins of paint into the normal waste bag. Whetstone actually store reusable tins and donate them to charities for their use. Councillor Mike Preston said he would go back to CBC and check if the new facility being built in Mounsorrel would be able to take this type of waste.
Chairman’s announcements
The Annual Town Meeting is planned for Wednesday 27th May.
Communications had been received about the two hour restricted car parking in the Melton Road car park and the traffic wardens are currently enforcing the restriction and have issued tickets. The Cemetary of the Year co-ordinators have said that there will be no awards this year but it will return in 2011.
Councillor Howard Midgely opened the meeting with the Bidding and then presented a cheque for £1,000 to SSAFA his chosen charity for the year. Mr Peter Spooner from SSAFA thanked Councillor Midgely for the cheque and presented him with a framed certificate in appreciation. He then expressed his pleasure that the Civic reception had been well attended and had received positive feedback for all who attended to continue with this in the future, and hoped to be able to do so.
Police report
PC Carly Adams presented the report for March which included two burglary of dwellings, which was down from the previous month by one. One of the crimes has been filed where as the other one is still under investigation. No link between the two areas.
Four burglary other than dwellings, this was an increase of two compared with the previous month and although these crimes have now been filed, as there were no suspects, there was a link between the areas so they will be looking into these more over the next few weeks.
Five thefts, which was a decrease of two compared to the previous month and compared to the last two months this result has decreased by seven, which was a good result. Apart from one crime these have been filed. The one outstanding does have a suspect so this is being looked into by the officer that is dealing with the crime.
There were no thefts from stores recorded in March which is good and a decrease from last month of one recorded crime. There were five thefts from motor vehicles which is up one from January and February.
Criminal damage has gone up considerably over the last month from nine last month to 27 this month. One male was arrested for three of the above crimes but there was not enough evidence to charge him.
Two crimes are still under
investigation and another male was charged with damage and due to attend court at the end of April. There have been eight reported instances in relation to damage at the Allotments in Syston and five reported instances of Graffiti around Syston.
There have been ten instances of criminal damage to motor vehicles this month which is an increase of six.
One suspect was arrested and charged with the offence, due in court at the end of April.
On another crime two suspects were arrested one was released due to no further evidence and one was charged and is due to attend court in early May.
There is another suspect on a crime that needs to be interviewed. The remainder of the crimes have already been filed.
There had been 42 anti-social behaviour calls received for the month of March which was an increase from the previous month but the same as the recorded amount in February 2010. The public order van is now back in Syston on Friday and Saturday nights which is helping reduce the problems. The New CCTV on Central Park near the Skate Board park is proving very successful and one individual is being processed.
There were no members’ questions to the chairman this month.
County/Borough Councillors report
All councillors stated that they had very little to report this month. Councillor Mike Preston talked about the new waste facility being built at Mountsorrel, see separate story on page??. Also Syston is the first place in the county to be fitted with rubber speed cushions and is being monitored to see how effective they are.
Councillor David Houseman reported back about the name of the new Tesco as Leicester Syston and asked all councillors to encourage residents to feedback to Tesco via their feedback cards any concerns they have. The other point regarded letters going out to some residents on the Hobby Horse estate about the proposal to have fixed bus stops erected rather than the current process of hailing.
Councillor Steve Hampson had no service report this month but spoke about the completion of the area around the Grovesnor club and how good it looked, agreed by everyone present. Councillor Ken Pacey had nothing to report on Licensing related to Syston and Councillor Tom Barkley reported about the Freedom of the Borough given to the Squadron feature in last months STN. He also spoke about the activities being prompted for keeping active during the next few months and finally about the voluntary bureau funding being set at £10,000 for the current year and possible the same for the next two years he commended the excellent work that the bureau do for the community and hoped that a councillor could elect to work more closely with them in the future.
If you have a question to put to your Town Council please write to the Town Council, The Community Centre, School Street, Syston. LE7 1HN.

STN report on the full meeting of March 2010

admin — Sat, 01 May 2010 04:01:59 +0000

The monthly meeting of the full council was held on Tuesday 23rd March and was opened by the Chairman Councillor Howard Midgley, who asked the two members of the public present if they had any matters they would like to raise. One question related to contract with the Syston Bowls club and the codicil about car parking on the village green, was it drawn up legally by a solicitor and would it be open to public view. The chairman responded by saying that yes it was legally drawn up and has yet to be signed as it has been submitted for legal scrutiny. A second question was raised with regard to the progress of the play area in DeVille Park. Allan Clarke, Town Manager, said that it was currently with the consultants and that it will then be put to the council for approval before going to CBC for their approval. Local school children will be involved when it goes to the consultation period and there is a proposal for CCTV to be included in the plan. It is hoped to have it all completed by the end of August.
Chairman’s announcements
Howard Midgley, chairman of the council, then open the meeting by announcing the death of Harry Hickling who served on the Town Council during the 1970s, his funeral was held on Monday 29th March.
An invitation had been received to join the visit to our twinned town of Deville for the 30th anniversary. He also asked about a gift as at the 20th Anniversary the council had sent a gift and would it be considered for anniversary.
Other announcements included the proposed activities on central park for children provided by Charnwood Borough Council, these included Street games on Monday 29th March between 2.00pm and 4.00pm. A childrens Character circus to be held between 2nd and 5th April and a play day on the 9th April which was held between 10.00am and 12noon.
Police report
Due to illnes the police report was not discussed and the chairman ask for any questions to be directed to Allan Clarke.
Members’ Questions to the chairman
A question relating to the land for the proposed new cemetery as there was a concern that the owner may sell to property developers. The Chairman responded by stating that the owner had signed another twelve month option for the council to purchase the land, and that the second part of the archeological report was now completed and forwarded to Leicestershire County Council. Councillor Steve Hampson requested that the issue was put higher on the agenda to avoid the land being sold to property developers.
Melton Road Car Park
Confirmation that the parking time is limited to a maximum of two hours on this car park, but there was a need to monitor this to stop all day parking. Request that the street management team include this check in their route.
2026 Local Development Framework Core Strategy
Comments on this strategy were to be made by Friday 26th March. This would enable a review of Syston as a service centre, and look at its schools, shops, etc. Council agreed to participate and send comments. Councillor Howard Midgley to follow this up.
Wind farm Planning application P/09/2464/2
This was discussed at length and the outcome was that the council at this stage would remain neutral. However, this doesn’t prevent any individuals objecting should they wish to do so.
County/Borough Councillors report
Councillor Ken Pacey reported about training on planning. It was advised that councillors should direct any enquiries to the planning department at Southfields and not give advice themselves to avoid giving incorrect information.
Councillor Steve Hampson reported that the stage one car parking near St Peters Court was now completed and that the second stage will commence soon. Also through the service reviews Syston and district age concern has secured its grant funding for the next three years. This month he spoke about the work done by the Environment Services Department and that they still have the slogan greener and cleaner. He talked about the lessor known aspects including abandoned vehicles without tax disc can be reported to the Borough council and the owner is given seven days to remove it safely before disposal. Burnt out vehicles reported are dealt with immediately. Fly tipping is an important role and whenever possible the culprits are prosecuted. Also responsible for Grotte spots, recycling where they are working with the Sue Rider Foundation and Mind. Trade waste, Monitoring air pollution, dust and noise pollution. Fireworks should not be used after 11.00pm with the exceptions of Bonfire night and specific celebrations such as Diwali. Lastly bonfires, where there is no actual law against bonfires in gardens the Borough council advise not before one hour after dusk.
Councillor Dave Houseman had written to congratulate the principal of Wreake Valley CC for the recent ofsted report where they received good comments on the good leadership and management. He had also written to the two young men who tried to help the men who fell in the frozen lake at the Watermead country park. He reported that Leicestershire County Council were jointly bidding with the Country park for Access to Nature grants.
Councillor Mike Preston reported that Leicestershire was leading the way in the country for improving the environment by light dimming or turning off so saving £750,000. The Sileby waste tip due to close soon when the new one at Mountsorrel will be opened and will be easier to use. He updated the council on the AstraZeneca situation and that EMDA was working to help reduce the impact. Wrapped dog waste can now be put into ordinary waste bins as of 22nd March. He also alerted the council to the driving lessons featured in the STN and he commented that he was not convinced of the efficiency of the proposed Wind Farm in Queniborough and urged individuals to make their feelings known. He thought it would be useful to invite the SPROUT members to a development meeting.
If you have a question to put to your Town Council please write to the Town Council, The Community Centre, School Street, Syston. LE7 1HN.

STN Report on the Full Town Council meeting of February 2010

admin — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 04:02:59 +0000

The monthly meeting of the full council was held on Tuesday 24th February and was opened by the Chairman Councillor Howard Midgley, who asked the five members of the public present if they had any matters they would like to raise. On this occasion no matters where given, so he continued with the formal opening of the council.
Chairman’s announcements
The chairman commenced with the announcement of the death of Harry Booth a former Borough Councillor and ‘a great friend to Syston’ who had served the community well between 1991 and 1995. He said that he and his wife Janet had fond memories of his loyalty and attendance at Council meeting and his great enthusiasm at election time. He then asked everyone to stand for a moments silence.
He had attended the ATC Sunday on behalf of the Council and said he was impressed by the turn out of young people and found it refreshing to see that the majority of young people where doing activities to better themselves and the community in which they live. He was uplifted by the occasion even though when trying the air simulator he crashed it! Our full story of this event was given in the March edition.
The Syston project continues to help the disadvantaged members of the community and they had produced a wonderful creation of embroidered flowers which is now on display in the old school rooms, see article on the official unveiling on the front page of the newspaper or on the home page of the website.
He had attended the Area forum on 11th February and was pleased to see so much public interest, a full report of the event was published in March edition and is also available on the STN website.
Final point was about the updated record of attendance of councillors to meetings, this is a requirement of a Quality Council. He said it serves to remind all councillors of the requirement to tender apologies for non-attendance, together with a reason such as unwell, work or just personal.
Police report
This was given by PCSO Jade Cameron. The recorded crimes for the month of January 2010 were, no burglaries of dwellings which is an excellent result as there had been five recorded in the previous month and may be the result of several arrests of burglars and an undercover operation that had taken place. Six burglaries of non-dwellings, up by three on the previous month, there was no pattern to these events and at present no suspects. There had been 12 thefts, which was an increase from the previous month, one male has been charged and is due to attend court and two other suspects have yet to be interviewed. More attention will be paid to these areas in the next few months. Four thefts from motor vehicles where reported and a pattern has emerged which will result in more attention being paid to the areas affected in future. No thefts from stores where reported, although the council members thought that there had been thefts and would encourage any retailer to inform the police of these events as they occur. Twelve incidents of criminal damage which shows an increase from last month. Three individuals have been charged with some of the offences and one is due to attend court. Three incidents of criminal damage to motor vehicles occurred and one person has been arrested and given a final warning for one of the incidents. The others are still under investigation. Anti-social behaviour calls numbered 42, down a little on last month.
Members’ Questions to the chairman
A letter had been submitted to the chairman relating to the size and scrutiny of the committees as it was felt that some committees where so large, 15 members in total, that they were virtually the full council and so it was difficult for democracy to be effective. They raised an issue that had brought it to the fore and believed it should be debated and changes made to the number of members in future. The chairman proposed that if a Council Member wished it to be added as an agenda item to allow full discussion at the next full council meeting then this can be requested.
Vice Chairman Appointment
Two nominations where put forward, Councillors N Gee and J Branston.
A secret ballot followed and Councillor Josey Branston was duly elected.
County/Borough Councillors report
Councillor Ken Pacey reported that any future grants will have to have county council support. Also that there had been a positive report on 24 hour licensing in that it has been better for the general public.
Councillor Steven Hampson reported that the Borough Budget would be presented to the full council on the Monday 1st March and that there will be a small increase in council tax but below inflation. Any cuts will not directly affect Syston Town Council. He then went on to talk about another lesser known service, Dog Control. He explained the role, promoting responsible dog ownership, lost and stray dogs. Dog officers patrol the entire borough and any dog found is kept in kennels in Hathern for seven days before re-housing. In the last year they had received 657 requests from the public. They also dealt with pest
control, pet shop licensing, animal boarding licensing and dog breading, horse riding schools and wild animals. They can impose fines on anyone not complying with the licenses. For further information on these services telephone Charnwood Borough Council Dog Control Service on 01509 634 628.
Councillor Mike Preston reported on the pot holes situation and that the county council was trying to repair as quickly as possible, it costs £300,000 per year. He also reported on the Big Switch off film competition that was held at the Palace cinema where the two winners received day passes to Alton Towers. He then explained that although no grants would be lost there may be a reduction in the number available. The Voluntary Action group will be handling grants for groups and Syston Volunteer group will continue to receive money from the County Council. Charnwood Borough Council are reviewing grants procedure to make them more fairly distributed and they will total £100,000 next year.
Councillor David Houseman reported on the Area Forum, see March issue page 24 or the STN website. Work has now been completed on the dispersion channels under the railway bridge in High Street to prevent
future flooding.

STN Report of January Syston Town Council Meeting.

admin — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 04:01:53 +0000

Seven members of the public attended the monthly Town Council meeting held on 26th January.
Matters raised by the public.
Two matters where raised by the public, the first related to the Village green/Central Park and cars parking near the Bowls Club. According to the 1956 ordinance survey it is illegal to park on the Village green and the question asked related to whether or not the council were covered by insurance for any accident or accidental damaged caused while parked on the green. The Notice Boards needed up dating to show that no parking for cars was allowed. There may be a need for a codicil required and added to the 25 year lease to the Bowls club. The response from the council was that this needed to be reviewed and it was agreed to add it to the next relevant committee meeting. The second matter raised related to the condition of the car park owned by the Borough Council on Walkers Way/High Street, this was noted during a Ward Walk and passed to the Borough Council.
Chairman’s announcements
Councillor Midgley, Chairman, had received a letter from Councillor Ken Pacey resigning as vice chairman of the council and from the development and general purposes committee but he continues as a council member, Amenities Committee member and chairman of the resources committee. He stated that this was for personal reasons.
The weather had not prevented councillors turning out to committee meetings and thanked councillors for attending in such wintery conditions. He had attended the official opening of the South Charnwood Leisure Centre on Saturday 23rd January, see separate story on page 3. A letter had been received for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue service apologising for the council being left out of the consultation and it was to be discussed at the next amenities meeting so that they could agree what they want from the Leicestershire Fire and Rescue service.
The area forum will meet in Syston on 11th February at the Working Men’s Club, Brookside. Allan Clarke, town manager, had been in communication with Mr P Carver of The Town Square about the problems with youths and was asking about a dispersal order. PC Carly Adams responded by saying that one was already in place and that the new Inspector at Syston was going to be looking into a no drinking policy for the Town Square, Central and Donkey Park, it has to be put forward to gain approval and she would update the council once the outcome was known.
Police report
There had been five burglaries of dwellings in January down on December figures, enquiries were ongoing. Non-dwelling burglaries down three reported. Four thefts reported again lower than December although thefts of cycles where up. There had been four thefts from vehicles and there was no pattern to these events, enquiries are continuing. No thefts from shops had been reported. Seven reports of criminal damage down one on December figures and three criminal damage to vehicles, again down on the previous month. There had been 44 calls about anti-social behaviour. She also reminded the council that the neighbourhood watch meeting had been arranged for Monday 8th February in the community centre.
Councillor Ken Pacey added that he had gone out with the police and the new inspector on Friday 22nd January in one of the antisocial behaviour vans and wanted to thank the Police for allowing him to join them. Their time was spent chasing the same group of youths around the area between Thurmaston, Syston and Birstall, who were drinking alcohol. The Anti-Social Behaviour van will be in these areas every Friday between 7.00pm and midnight.
Council Items discussed
Planned redecoration of the community centre was now urgent, it was agreed that there was no need to gain additional 10 further quotes and the Amenities committee were asked and agreed to waive this to propose an additional three quotes. This would then be considered at the resources meeting in order to make a quick decision.
The Cricket Club had been asked by the league if another cricket club, from Wigston could play on the same wicket. This was rejected after discussion as the cost to Syston Cricket Club and the council may be higher than any income received.
County/Borough Councillors report
Councillor David Houseman reported that the council needed to be aware of the protocol when attending the area forum, to avoid any one council dominating the meeting. The Connect2 lottery bid funding was now available for a plan to incorporate a new bridge to go over the confluence of the river Wreake and the canal near the marina. It will be built high enough for any future navigation rights for travelling towards Melton and should connect with Cossington. The plan had incorporated steps which have to be removed to avoid discrimination of disabled users. The bus stop on Glebe Way had now been enhanced with the grass verge removed, curb raised and covered with a hard standing surface. Watermead Park, Tony Newman had suggested that a football pitch could be included at the Syston end of subject to a review.
Councillor Mike Preston reported the closures to Barkby Road for implanting the traffic calming humps. The Budget at County level was being reduced by £70 million over the next three years which will result in staff losses but that there should be no reduction in services.
Loughborough is looking for small additional sites outside of the National Forest area and Syston could be recommended. The Big switch off had saved Charnwood Borough Council 0.5% of its energy usage which if done across a full year would amount to a saving of £2.6million. The County Council are looking at reducing the brightness or switching off some lights.
Councillor Tom Barkley reported that Charnwood Borough Council was promoting the Wild Card for children five to 16 years to gain discounts during half-term in February and Mini movers at Syston Library. Also a grant had been received for seven Leicestershire districts to provide a choice of housing opportunities and that the first council homes in 19 years are to be built in the Charnwood area. The latest news stated that the country was coming out of recession but this was not evident in Charnwood as yet.
Councillor Ken Pacey reported that licensing requests had been received mainly from clubs and restaurants to open until 3.00 or 4.00am, these had not been granted. If one was granted it would make it difficult in the future to reject any further requests. The police official objections aided the rejections. The reference group and training are now available to parish and town councils and suggested that the town manager may find these useful. Parking problems report produced concluded that there was little that could be done in the Loughborough university area. The next report will take in a wider area which will include Syston.
Councillor Steve Hampson made the council aware that some residents in Queniborough were objecting to the proposed site of the new Cemetery for Syston.

Syston Town Council News

admin — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 16:03:36 +0000

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.

Syston Town Council News

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Some 20 members of the public attended the monthly meeting held on 27th October including the Syston Fire Station crew and Syston in Bloom Panel members. One point raised concerned the changing provision of play areas in new housing developments such as the one on Barkby Road. The concern raised was that the provision appears to be less than first agreed and that a sign had been placed saying no ball games, which the resident thought was in contravention of the provision for recreational facilities. The council was asked if they were keeping an eye on the developers in order for them to ensure sufficient and appropriate facilities are included. The council explained that plans can be changed at any time by the planners at Charnwood Borough Council and that recreational facilities can be
re-sited but they have to provide the agreed space. It only goes back to Syston Town Council if the type of house requires changing. Councillor Howard Midgely requested that this issue was added to the recreation amenities committee agenda. Other items were briefly discussed including traffic lights, spending and future building plans (5,000), Harrison Row which is being dealt with by liaison with the police and Carly Adams reported that a gate will be put on each end of the alley and that she was following this up on behalf of the residents.

Station Fire Station

Mr Brown from Syston Fire Station requested the support of the Town Council for the service to try and prevent the closure of the station. The proposal from the Fire service is to build a station on the Hallam Fields development at Birstall and have one full time fire crew and engine. It was discussed at length after Mr Ian Scarrott Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Leicester Fire and Rescue Service presented the consultation procedure to the council and explained that at this stage it is a proposal but that if after the consultation, which closed 31st October and will be reported to the public in December, finds that the need for the whole time appliance and crew would be better placed at Birstall, then Syston would be closed and the retained fire fighters would be offered whole time posts elsewhere or will be made redundant.

Syston Station was praised not only by the council but also by Mr Scarrott as they are recognised as one of the best retained stations in the country. Something that the council felt should be taken into consideration when the fire service reviews the consultation. The Council gave their full support to the Fire station and said that they would send in a letter of support to Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service as most of the councillors stated that we should have both the new station at Hallam Fields and the retained station in Syston due the increasing amount of new development in the area and that once a station and crew have been disbanded it is not easy to get them back.

Police report

During September, five dwellings had been burgled, down on the previous month, no pattern to these. Three
non-dwellings had been burgled, again down on previous month. Four thefts of cycles, no suspects, six thefts from motor vehicles mainly in the Watermead Country Park area. No thefts from stores had been reported. Two criminal damage, five motor vehicle damage reported, down on the previous month. They had received 27 anti-social behaviour calls which was 50% down on August figures. No trouble was reported during the fair which was a big improvement, possibly due to more personnel being drafted in to give a higher visibility this year. There had been no arrests and no public order offences. A neighbourhood watch meeting was being set up and she would inform the council as to date when known.

Borough Councillors report

South Charnwood Leisure Centre was praised and all agreed it was a big improvement for Syston and area. Alcohol awareness week, activities taking place throughout the borough. Facility being made available for increasing the number of people having their dogs microchipped. Charnwood Borough Council proud to have the 20th lowest council tax charge in the country and will try and keep it down in the forth coming year. March 2010 housing plans to be discussed and spread them around the borough. Asda sports provision is being followed up again. 106 agreements, the council needs to provide a wish list to present to the Borough before negotiations for any future building developments are agreed. There are new developments in licensing changes and councillors need to be updated. Charnwood twinning association meeting took place 26th October, see report on page.

County Councillors report

South Charnwood Leisure Centre had featured on the politics show when Mike Preston had been interviewed for the programme that went out on 12th October. Mike urged the councillors again to get involved with Charnwood and South Charnwood as all input was valued. The Big Switch off results due soon. The County council have to save £70m over the next three years, already one directors post is not being replaced and the responsibilities have been shared out amongst the remaining directors. The council will be publishing the good news that they have achieved a good rating again in the recent review.

Spotlight – The Journal for Syston Town Council, Winter 2009

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Syston Town Manager
Mr. Ian MacDonald is due to step down as Town Manager on the 23rd of October. This follows over 12 years of service that has seen the Town and its Council grow from strength to strength. Ian was the leading light in the Council gaining ‘Quality Town Council’ status and was proud of the Cemetery gaining national recognition on several occasions including 2009.
Mr. Allan Clarke has moved from Charnwood Borough Council to take up the position as the new Town Manager for Syston Town Council.

Cemetery of the Year 2009
Syston are very proud to announce that the Cemetery on Barkby Road has for the second successive year won the National Award for its category. Special recognition goes to Mr. Paul Whiteman who is the Cemetery keeper together with Mr. Tim Yarwood who assists two days a week. The Chairman of the Council, Howard Midgley, had the pleasure of presenting Mr. Yarwood with a framed certificate to acknowledge his efforts contributing towards gaining the award at the cemetery.
Plans for a new cemetery at The Ridgeway are still on-going.

Multi Use Games Area
Following public consultations the Council have not decided on a final location for a Multi Use Games Area. Alternatives are being considered.

Syston in Bloom
Syston was recognised again for its efforts in the East Midlands in Bloom competition. A very creditable ‘Silver Gilt’ award was presented to the Town with another ‘Silver Gilt’ award given to the Queen Victoria public house. A very special thank you must go out to the organising committee and to all who contributed.

Christmas 2009
The Christmas Lights will be switched on Saturday 5^th December.
Melton Road between Somerfields and Barclays Bank will be closed from 1.00pm. Billy Bates will again provide some amusements together with Radio Leicester, Thurmaston Marching Brass, Cheerleaders and if not too busy Santa. The local Traders are also getting in to the Spirit with many of them entering a Best Decorated Shop Window Competition.

CCTV in Central Park
CCTV is currently being installed in Central Park which will be able to monitor the Play area, Skate Park and Park for anti-social behaviour.

Contacting Your Council
Syston Town Council currently has 20 Councillors
Merton Ward
Mr. Brian Branston
Mr. Toby Griffiths
Mr. Peter Murray
Mr. Ken Pacey
Mr. Harold Screaton
New Barkby Ward
Mrs. Claire Dolan
Mr. Nicolas Gee
Mr. Howard Midgley
Mrs. Janet Midgley
Mr. Ivan Spibey
St. Peter’s East Ward
Mr. Stephen Hampson
Mrs Susan Gerrard
Mrs. Rita Gray
Mr. John Hewer
Mr. Asmal Mohamed
St. Peter’s West Ward
Mr. Tom Barkley
Mrs. Josie Branston
Mr. Mal Carnall
Mrs. Maureen Pacey
Mr. Patrick Wright
All councillors can be contacted at
The Community Centre
School Street
Syston
Leicester LE7 1HN
Our email address is:
mailbox@syston.co.uk
Tel:0116 206 7150
Fax:0116 269 6904
The day to day management team is:
Allan Clarke     Town Manager
John Smith    Deputy Town Manager
Council meetings for November and December are as follows:
Development Committee
3^rd November & 1^st December
Amenities Committee
10^th November & 8^th December
Resources Committee
17^th November & 15^th December
Council
24^th November & 22^nd December
All committee and full Council meetings take place in the Community Centre in School Street on Tuesday evenings and all residents are welcome to attend.
All meetings start at 7.30pm.

Syston Town Council News – Report from the September meeting.

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Paul Harley – Crime report - MUGA - Deville Park New Play Area
The meeting began with Councillor Howard Midgely asking the members of the public present, 5 in total, if they had anything they wished to raise. Three items were raised. A resident had sent a letter to the Council regarding anti social behaviour experienced near her residence. Permission has been sought to erect a gate at the end of the passage to prevent people congregating and asked for the support of the council. Local traders have been asked to write to help support the application and the local police think it a useful deterrent. County Council would need to give permission but could not erect the gate.
The second issue raised was with regard to the number of computers the council have agreed to purchase, Mr Henshaw asked why there was a need to purchase six computers when there were only four members of staff working at the Council offices. He said that although not 100% computer literate he could not understand the need for six, he was assuming that each member of staff required a computer, one may be to use as a server, but why have one spare in case of breakdown when most new computers have a guarantee and if a maintenance agreement was taken out at the time of purchase any breakdowns would be dealt with as and if they happened. The third was from Mr Porter who asked about speed cameras as used by residents in Burrough-on-Hill and in Woodhouse Eaves. Councillor Midgley responded by saying that it was not something that they had considered. After a brief discussion, Councillor Mike Preston stated that these are available through the Community Speed Watch, they are usually used by volunteers and in order to apply and gain use of them, and approximately 200 signatures are required. The problem of litter in the town centre was raised and that it seem to coincide with the schools going back, it was suggested that contact was made with the Head teachers of the local schools to see if it could be improved.
Charnwood Borough Councillor Paul Harley, attended the meeting, as part of his tour of all councils in South Charnwood, to gain feedback from the local councils in dealings with Charnwood Borough Council. Several items were discussed including, the bridge closure on High Street causing young mothers to take a very long route round to take and collect their children from school. Litter; bin collections in the summer months, to Council property sitting empty when people are on the waiting list for many years. However, the general relationship between the two councils was mixed in that some councillors had good relationships with people at Charnwood Borough Council while others had felt distant and ignored. Councillor Harley emphasised the need for councillors to attend planning meetings at Southfields in order for the Town council to have valuable input and thanked them for bringing items to his attention.
Councillor Midgley had attended a lot of events over the summer including the blue ribbon opening of the South Charnwood Leisure Centre on 19th September, he said how impressed he was with the facility and hoped that residents of Syston would enjoy the new range of activities available.
He had also attended the Syston Chamber of trade meeting, the Carnival, Art and Local history Exhibitions. The new Christmas lights have arrived and the preparations for the parade are well under way. Syston won a silver gilt award in the East Midlands in Bloom competition with the Queen Victoria Pub winning a special award. The principal of Wreake Valley had sent thanks for the £250 given to the Oliver Taylor Award presented at the Leicester City Football Club which Councillor Pacey attended on 8th September.
Seven residential burglaries had been reported one suspect had been caught and charged. Five burglaries of non residential reported. Twelve cases of theft were reported, seven from cars, two from stores. Thirteen cases of criminal damage, seven related to cars. Antisocial behaviour figures were down against the last three months. No CCTV report had been received, request to made for next months council meeting.
Two main items that were discussed at length were the siting of the proposed MUGA (Multi Use Games Area). The council had consulted with residents around Memorial Park and although a low response, 15 out of 54 houses, none of the respondents were in favour of it being placed on Memorial Park. Other parks were voiced including Central Park which the council had already agreed was unsuitable. Councillor Dolan suggested DeVille Park as there are a lot of families in that area and nowhere for teenagers to go. Further options raised and the council need residents to say where they do want it placed or it may have to be scrapped and the money used elsewhere in the Borough. It was agreed that the amenities committee look into the alternatives quickly and that the town manager find out about the funding. Deville Park play equipment was the other item that took a lot of debate as the Council has three quotes waiting and still no further on with installing the equipment due to the need for a consultant. This would be at no cost to Syston Town Council and so they decided to send the quotes to the consultants and to keep officials at Charnwood informed. County Councillors report, Councillor David Houseman began by wishing Ian Macdonald well in his forth coming retirement; this was Ian’s last full Council meeting as he retires on the 23rd October. He thanked Ian for the help he had given to him over the years he has been Town Manager at Syston and then went on to welcome Alan Clarke and offered help and advice should he need it. He said that if the council could get information to him before Thursday he could raise the issue of the MUGA and maybe find space on Watermead Park at a meeting he was attending. Councillor Mike Preston said that some comments made by the council regarding officers at Charnwood were of concern and offered his assistance. He then went on to say that there will need to be savings of £70m made over the next three years so the Town Council should be prepared. The big Switch off, see Ridgeway Ramblings for more details. Councillor Steve Hampson suggested a letter from the Town council to the Borough thanking them for the new South Charnwood Leisure Centre and finally Councillor Ken Pacey said he had nothing to report.

Syston Town Council News

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STN report on the full meeting of July 2009
Crime report - Community events - Barkby Road Calming Scheme - Deville Park
Council Reserves -Management Committee for August recess

The monthly meeting was held on Tuesday 28th July with the chairman asking for any matters to be raised by the public present; only four members of the public were present. None were raised so the council proceeded with the agenda. Councillor Howard Midgley, Chairman of the council commenced with the announcement that Alan Clarke, formally of Charnwood Council, would take over from Ian Macdonald in October 2009 when Ian retires from his position as Town Manager. Mr Clarke was present and was introduced to the council, who welcomed him into the position. The chairman then explained that Mr Barry Bedford had tendered his resignation and had now left the employment of the Syston Town council and they wished him well.
Councillor Midgely went on to explain a change of date for the Civic Reception from December to Friday 26th March 2010. He reminded all councillors of the importance of the work of the committees and panels and asked that if they were unable to attend, to let the committee know as soon as possible so that apologies could be recorded.
Communications had been received which included the topping out ceremony at the new South Charnwood Leisure Centre on Wednesday 29th July. East Midlands in Bloom presentation which will be held in Cleethorpes in September to which Councillor T Griffiths indicated he would be available to represent the council along with the chair of the Syston in Bloom committee and a member of the Town council staff M Bent who is involved with the Syston in Bloom activities. A meeting had been arranged about the repositioning of the recycling bins on Melton Road, Mr I MacDonald would be meeting with Mr Hayes from Charnwood Borough Council to discuss alternatives.
Police report stated that all crime was down on the previous month with two burglaries of dwellings, although there was no pattern to these events and five burglaries on non-dwellings, some of which are still under investigation. Criminal damage was down with nine reports, five of which were vehicles. There had been 34 calls about antisocial behaviour, which was less than the previous month in which they received 61 calls. They had increased the number of regular patrols of the park that had lead to a reduction in groups of young people congregating and alcohol had been confiscated when found. They had not received any more complaints from Necton Street since the park gates have been closed on a Friday evening.
Councillor H. Screaton raised a question to the council about their interpretation of the meaning of what constituted a community event, as he had concerns that the Syston Carnival, which gave a lot to the community but was not given council support as in other events such as the Egyptian day and Jurassic Park day. After an in depth discussion a proposal was made that the Syston Town Council would support the Syston Carnival committee in providing an annual Carnival for the Town and that they would write to the committee asking them to formally put in writing what additional support they require from the Syston Town Council in the future.
Barkby Traffic calming scheme, the county council have requested an agreement from the Syston Town Council for the formal consultation to proceed with public consultations, this the council agreed. Deville Park play equipment is now being removed and a fence has been erected to prevent anyone entering during this time. Councillor Hampson asked why it had taken such a long time to get this done as it is now the summer holiday when families would want to use the area and are now unable to do so. After another lengthy discussion it was agreed that the town manager should arrange a meeting with all parties involved and set out a timescale and deadlines in order to complete the project as soon as possible.
The council agreed to invest the reserves of £150,000 for six months into the Alliance & Leicester, now part of the Santander Bank, as they believed this was the best rate of interest and had the least risk attached.
The Town Council does not meet in August so management committee, made up of the Council Chairman, chairs of the committees and vice chairs if needed, would deal with any concerns, this was agreed. The County Council report was given by County Councillor D Houseman, who firstly gave Mike Preston’s apologies for absence and then followed by explaining that lottery funding gained for the links between Syston and Watermead Park would be between Meadow Lane and Memorial Park. This would mean crossing the Fosse Way and that there may be some funding for a Zebra crossing should it go ahead. It will be put before Syston Town Council for their approval if it does get the County approval. He was also campaigning to get lighting put in place between Fosse Way and Memorial Park and was awaiting an outcome on this matter. The flood alleviation scheme underneath the bridge on High Street had met some technical problems and so the road would need to be closed. This should take place week commencing 3rd August. Any money left over will be used on the Fosse Way.
Borough councillors reported the following items: South Charnwood Leisure centre is due to open on 7th September 2009, bookings for gym membership open from 27th July. Charnwood Sports awards are asking for nominations to be in by 11th September 2009. Antisocial Behaviour event will be present at the Syston Carnival on 5th September. Charnwood Summer events details available from the Syston Library with a lot of activities available for children on holiday from school. The license for the Corner House had been revoked and the owners of the pub would be under scrutiny to prove themselves if they are to gain a new license from the Charnwood licensing panel. Taxi’s in Syston are above the standard required by the licensing body and only four have not reach the required level, they have now gone to appeal.