Tree felling, allotments and road closures among items discussed

At the meeting of Reepham Town Council on Wednesday 12 February, PC Denis Evans had sent his apologies, but emailed a report, outlining callouts in the past month. He also advised that tree surgeons had reported that the trees they were asked to remove on Broomhill Lane had had nails inserted into them, causing a possible injury risk to the tree surgeons.

County Councillor Greg Peck reported on the possible devolution structures.

District Councillor Stuart Beadle was not in attendance, but a member of the public read a statement to ask Cllr Beadle if he intends to speak and represent residents who are in objection to the proposed Pettywell solar farm at the Broadland District Council Planning Committee meeting, if necessary.

An allotment tenant has asked the town council if it would consider installing mains water at the Fiddlers Field allotment site. The Reepham Allotment & Leisure Gardeners’ Association (RALGA) has contacted the council, stating that it would prefer that mains water is not installed. The pros and cons were discussed, but councillors resolved not to proceed at this stage.

A quote was accepted to replace the rotten wooden fence surrounding the play area on Overton Way with a metal fence.

The tender documents for a replacement skate park at Stimpson’s Piece have been reviewed by a solicitor, who gave extensive comments. It was agreed that, subject to the solicitor’s approval, a briefer tender request will be advertised.

The town council is aware that there have been many road closures in the town over the past month. These are due mainly to the wind farm projects and CityFibre, which is installing a fibre optic network. Details of road closures can be found HERE or by calling the town council on 01603 873355. Any Highways issues can be reported direct to Norfolk County Council by calling 0344 800 8020 or online.

Members of the public are reminded that Broadland District Council will accept comments regarding the Pettywell solar farm planning application until 30 March. Everyone is encouraged to respond to the application, number 2024/3676. The planning portal can be found HERE. Written representations can be sent to Broadland District Council Planning Department, The Horizon Centre, Peachman Way, Broadland Business Park, Norwich NR7 0WF.

The tree felling on Broomhill Lane was discussed. It was noted that anyone can request a tree preservation order. More information can be found HERE.

The next town council meeting will be held on Wednesday 12 March at 7.30 pm at Stimpson’s Piece Pavilion, Bartle Court, Reepham, followed by the Stimpson’s Piece Trustee meeting.

There are still two vacancies on the town council, so anyone interested is encouraged to contact the town clerk by email or telephone 01603 873355 for an informal chat. The Town Hall and Stimpson’s Piece Pavilion are also available to hire. Please contact the town clerk for availability and prices.

Notes supplied by Reepham Town Council. Full minutes can be found on the town council website.