Edited extracts from draft minutes of the Coldwaltham Parish Council meeting on 17th June 2019.
Ofsted Report
The Ofsted Inspection in schools is still ongoing. Most Children are well looked after according to Ofsted standards, however, improvements are required. It is reported that social workers are meant to look after 14/15 children each, however due to a shortage of social workers it has been found they often have up to 30 cases each. A new director is in place with an 18 month contract, with the aim to train more social workers and retain them for at least 5 years.
Drug concerns
The Council are aware that there continues to be a problem with drugs in rural areas.
The Swan
The gully at The Swan has been cleared since the last Parish Council meeting.
Public Questions
Q- Regarding swin on Hesworth Common – an elector has raised a concern about the camping overnight, and number of swings on Hesworth Common that have been appearing.
A- The Parish Council will be removing the branch from the tree which has the swing over the drop. The Parish Council will also be putting a sign up in the main car park stating “No Camping, No swings & No fires” in the hope this will prevent future instances.
Crime Prevention
A poster on the Village notice board was reported to the clerk by an elderly couple. For the elderly couplewho saw the poster, it caused unnecessary stress and upset. The incident was reported to Sussexpolice. However, it is believed to be a targeted attack on a member of the community who has possibly upset someone else.
Maintenance
A full review of all issues and the annual review of the fixed assets will take place over the summer, the jobs will be prioritised and then a proposal presented to the council at the September meeting.
It was reported that the replacement table tennis table top was awaiting delivery.
At the last Parish Council meeting, a member of the Sports & Social Club raised the issue of the state of the Recreation Ground outside the shop. The clerk has been in contact with Grasstex who have visited the site. The 3 step recommendation is a substantial financial commitment. The work would need to be done after the football season. The clerk will look into funding options.
