Caerwent Community Council

Don’t forget any notices or other matter that you would like put on the Web Site. We are also building up a list of local businesses and services. If you feel that you would like to be included then please let Kevin Evans know (www.caerwentcom.com) or contact the Council on the number below.

Some of you may have heard that the MoD are considering selling off the Old Gym building that houses the Youth Club etc. In this regard we have arranged via the County Council for a letter to be sent to them reminding them that this is a vital community facility and will be maintained as such. However, when the Merton Green development goes ahead there will be monies made available that should, we hope, be sufficient to enable us, or MCC on our behalf, to secure the site. We will keep you informed as matters progress.

There seems to be confusion in Ash Tree Road about parking. We are assured that the position remains that if you have created parking off road you are at liberty to use it at least until it is clear what detailed plans are approved for the area. If it is not possible to retain the present arrangements then hard standing will be provided. Again, if we get any more details we will pass them on.

We have had a few examples lately of people not getting the required planning consents for work carried out at their premises. This can involve from fencing or other structures near a road to structures erected at the premises. If in doubt, you should check with the Planning Department of MCC. Their telephone number is 01633 644644. They have a GIS system there which can identify your property on the computer instantly allowing the Officer that you are talking to, to see exactly what you are proposing and he/she will advise accordingly. This will avoid people having to remove or modify structures after an Enforcement Officer has visited.

Please note that the Community Council only has an advisory role when it comes to planning applications. Whilst every care is taken to provide objective comments for Officers and Planning Committee Members to consider, it is their ultimate decision whether or not an application is approved or rejected.

It was good to see such a good turnout at the Remembrance Service on 13th November. Attendances seem to be increasing each year. If you have not attended before we hope to see you next year.

Doesn’t anyone want to be our odd job person? Last month we asked if anyone would consider offering assistance but there were no takers. Let us know if you are interested.

We are assured that work will be started on the Five Lanes to St Brides Lane in January - at last!! We have not lost sight of the other roads and will keep up the pressure to get them seen to.

The old Caerwent School Visitors Centre project is progressing now that we have the grant to get the further studies going. The steering group is in the process of instructing Consultants at present. If anyone would like, at this stage to indicate their willingness to get involved with the project once it is up and running, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Phil Murphy, Chairman