COPY FOR PARISH MAGAZINE JUNE 2009

Street Lighting

The advised programme of cutting back trees that obscure some of the lights has now been completed. In conjunction with Southern Electric we shall then consider priorities for upgrading some of the older lights. Your suggestions are always appreciated.

New labelling will of the columns is being arranged. In the meantime please continue to advise the Clerk of any lighting problems, giving details of location & pole reference number.

Police & Security Matters

In her recent Newsletter Jayne writes:

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Balcombe Neighbourhood Watch for their prompt reporting of a suspicious red van that had been seen in the village. Through their vigilance we were able to obtain vehicle and company details. Intelligence checks were carried out and it was discovered that one of these males had breached an Anti-Social Behaviour Order prohibiting him from entering West Sussex”.

If you do witness any suspicious activity, please don't hesitate to contact our dedicated PCSO, Jayne Milne, with details. 0845 60 70 999 extn. 21901, or by email jayne.milne@sussex.pnn.police.uk.

Freighter

Dates for 2009/2010 collections have been confirmed as follows:

28 June

25 October

& 14 March 2010

Planning

It can only be in the interests of residents making representation on any planning application to MSDC to let the Clerk have a copy of your letter so that our Housing & Environment Group are aware of your views when each application is considered by the Parish Council.

Post Bus Withdrawal

We understand that Bluebird might shortly be in a position to offer availability of some kind of service into Haywards Heath &/or Burgess Hill on a daily basis, subject to another contract coming off. There will be a charge for each journey.

Further information will be released as soon as we receive it.

News from MSDC

Mid Sussex District Council has announced the official opening of a new six-lane petanque area at Beech Hurst Gardens, Haywards Heath. The petanque area is also open to the general public and equipment can be hired through the Beech Hurst kiosk at weekends and during the school holidays. Bookings can be made by calling 01444 441675 at weekends or 01444 477379 during the week.

Local Elections take place on June 4th for both the European Parliament & West Sussex County Council.

Playground

Please note that the adult pieces of keep fit equipment in the upper (old) playground adjoining the pavilion must not to be used by children who should always use the equipment provided on the lower area of the rec.

Potholes & Finger Posts

We are currently studying proposals in the paper released by West Sussex Highways with recommendations for repair to the rapidly deteriorating fingerposts.

As previously mentioned the pothole problem is Nation/County-wide. We have met on site with the responsible Highway Engineer who has noted our concerns, especially in respect of Newlands & Bramble Hill. Repair work has been scheduled through their accredited outside contractor & we will continue our pressure on them to get the work done.

Should readers wish to make direct contact on the matter please note that the telephone number is 01243 642105.

Annual Parish Meeting

It was disappointing to note that, in spite of much advance publicity, only 10 residents attended this event. Nevertheless we are grateful to the guest speaker – Superintendent Stephen Barry from Sussex Police who spoke to us on “Casualty Reduction – The Police Perspective”.

Travel Concessions

Reminder of eligibility- Rail Passes – aged 60 or over, residents listed on the Balcombe Electoral Roll only.

Evidence of eligibility required from all first-time applicants. Cost currently £15.40 per annum, or £11.40 to those evidencing receipt of benefit.

Please note that to take advantage of this concession – passes are more expensive if you apply direct to the rail company – pre-paid vouchers must be purchased direct from the Clerk beforehand.

Bus Passes – Evidence of eligibility, together with passport size photograph, to be checked by the Clerk prior to submission to MSDC who issue the covering passes. Aged 60 or over. Confirmation of Balcombe residence likewise required.

Passes enable free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.

Availability of the Clerk

The weekly surgery for the issue of Rail & Bus passes, inspection of current plans etc. is held each Tuesday, between 9.30 am & 12 noon at 11 Foxwells. No prior appointment is required for assistance at that time. If this is inconvenient please telephone beforehand to make an alternative appointment.

Please note that there will be NO Weekly Surgery on Tuesday 7th July

Next Parish Council Meeting Date

The next meeting of the Council takes place in the W I Room on Monday 15th June at 8 p m.

A copy of the agenda will appear on the noticeboard approximately 7 days beforehand. All residents are welcome to attend.

Richard Greig - Clerk to the Council

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