Report from the Chairman of the Village Amenities Committee

The following report highlights the work being done on behalf of residents of Broomfield by the Parish Council Amenities Committee.

Chairman’s Report – Village Amenities – 28 July 2021

Cycle Hire Scheme

With new cycle routes being installed around Broomfield, an initial discussion took place regarding a cycle rent scheme via an app “splinister.com”. This could coincide with a new cycle shelter being installed at the Village Hall. The committee welcomed the idea to promote more cycling. Discussions will continue.

Allotment Site

The secretary of the National Allotment Association is coming to talk to plot holders and interested councillors on Thursday 5th August, to give information regarding the benefits of joining a formal Association. It was suggested that gazebos be erected in case of rain.

Play Area

Due to the overwhelming success of the newly refurbished play area, the grassed area has not had a chance to regrow. The committee are awaiting quotes for artificial grass to be laid, which will also deal with any tripping hazards.

Sadly, it appears that the rope ladder on the Jolly Rainbow ship has been purposefully damaged. A temporary repair was carried out, but this has been removed. Our village attendant has made safe in order that the ship can still be used. After discussion it was decided that CCTV around the Village Hall will need to be extended to reach all areas of the playground. This item will be placed on the next Village Hall meeting agenda.

The basket swing has been removed after a playground inspection showed that there may not be adequate room. It was agreed that our deputy clerk will contact CCC in order that they can give an independent opinion.

It was unanimously agreed that a notice board be placed behind the bench in the playground, which will include emergency contact details and events taking place on Angel Meadow.

Litter

Litter around Broomfield continues to be on the agenda. It was suggested via FB that we should install more litter bins. It was mentioned that a bin at Skerry Rise is needed. However, this does not come under Broomfield. It was also suggested the bin outside the Methodist Church be replaced. Cllr Steed agreed to discuss with the Church.

Our next litter pick is due to take place on Saturday 11th September, as advertised in Broomfield Times. Cakes and beverages to be provided and will be promoted on Face Book.

Trees

Sites for planting trees were discussed and a map of the area will be forwarded to councillors of potential sites. Physical meetings will then take place. “Forest Initiative” offered to supply trees and our deputy clerk was requested to ascertain how tall the trees are.

Broomfield in Bloom

A long time in the making, the pandemic thwarted our early plans. However, it is great to note that Broomfield in Bloom project has taken off. The first eight planters installed at Butlers Close, Post Office Road, Vellacotts, Erick Avenue, Shalford Lodge and at Madelayne Court have received some lovely comments. A big thank you was given to Essex Youth Build for working with BPC to get the planters made, for our village attendant who oiled them, lined them, and installed them. It was unanimously agreed that further planters will now be installed and advertised in the Broomfield Times.

Church Green

The bench on Church Green needs to be moved due to safety concerns. A suitable area will be decided by the committee shortly.

Angel Meadow

Future use of Angel Meadow was discussed. Our Parish Council Chairman will contact BFC to ascertain how much use of Angel Meadow they will require over the coming year.

PP3

It was noted what a great job David Thomas (Parish Paths Partnership) made of clearing Sweeps Walk footpath.

Centenary Wood

It was unanimously agreed to accept a quote for trees in Centenary Wood to be thinned out and coppicing of the top half to encourage ground level growth. Work will be completed by mid-winter.

Sue Hubble

Chairman Village Amenities