Page 46 - Phonebox Magazine July 2014

Mercury Report
Councillor vacancy
At the recent elections, Debbie Brock stood down as Olney’s Ward Councillor for Milton Keynes Council (MKC). Therefore, she felt it appropriate to stand down from Olney Town Council (OTC) as well, so OTC started advertising a casual vacancy for a new councillor.
Members of the public could call for an election for the post and, if ten or more did that, an election would be held. This is highly unusual and, by the time you read this, OTC will probably be co-opting to fill the vacancy.
Berrell’s Court
As noted in earlier Mercury reports, quotes to resurface Berrell’s Court have been obtained, and the council is seeking financial contributions from interested parties. A planning application to erect a pair of two bedroom houses next to 8 Berrell’s Court has a condition attached to it. The roadway must be completed before construction of the dwellings is started.
The developer has asked for this condition to be varied to prevent damage from construction vehicles. As a result, the new road would be completed after the dwellings have been fully constructed but before they’re occupied.
The intent behind the condition was likely
Enduro Update
More than 50 people, including MP Mark Lancaster, attended a fundraising event for Help For Heroes in June.
Giles Hedley entertained guests by playing a variety of historical instruments (including a memorable version of Samson and Delilah) at the launch for the Long Road Enduro. The evening celebrated the start of Patrick Castell’s journey from John O’ Groats to Lands End in a Morris 10/6 Special, and was held at The Cowpers Oak in Weston Underwood.
The raffle included donations from Bacchus Wines, The Nest at No.9, Allen’s, The Swan Inn, Bex Boutique, Mark Andrews’ hair salon, Olney Delicatessen, Costa Coffee, Wilson’s 46 Phonebox Magazine
to ensure that the developer makes the agreed contribution and that the road will be resurfaced. When speculating on the likely reason that a condition was thought necessary, consider the background behind the delay building Driftway.
After discussion, and some disagreement on the details, Peter Geary proposed that OTC ask the developer to pass his contribution to OTC. The council banked it and sent a letter supporting the variation to MKC. This should achieve the same aim, while preserving the new road surface. It was met with a general in favour consensus.
Bus shelter
A member of the public has requested that a bus shelter be added to the existing bus stop adjacent to Brock’s Garage, on the East side of the High Street. Councillors did not generally seem convinced that this bus stop, or the one opposite, was well enough used to justify the expense. However, the issue will be added to the forthcoming review of the recently modified Yardley Road junction.
East Street parking
As reported before, MKC is not in favour of the proposal to add an additional car park at the West end of Doff’s Field. Liam had since asked for a meeting with MKC to discuss it,
Hardware, Much-a-Do Deli, Nightingales Jewellers, Co-op Groceries and Alban Hill Garden Centre.
The launch raised more than £750, with the continued fundraising ending in September. Patrick said: “We want to thank everyone for their support with our fundraising.”
The next event will be held on Saturday, July 19th, in the Market Place from 9am until 5pm, with the ride’s Morris 10/6 Special on display. Visitors can sit in the car or take photographs.
There will be a Help For Heroes stall with items for sale and information about injured forces personnel.
For more information, search Help For Heroes Long Road Enduro on Facebook.
but their planning officer had rejected the request. There was some frustration, as the need for additional parking was real and clear. Peter Geary felt such reluctance to meet was normal, a meeting was required and the Ward Councillors would offer their support to help achieve it.
Bits ‘n’ bobs
The transfer of ownership of the Olney Centre to OTC, under the Community Asset Transfer scheme, is progressing. The Council Chamber hearing loop system, as temporarily provided by Jeremy Rawlings for last month’s meeting, proved successful, and Tony Evans thought it essential as a permanent fixture. The wicker lady from the Market Square has been sent off for repair and is expected to return in July.
Pink sacks
As reported in the local press, the availability of pink recycling sacks continues to be patchy. The mayor explained that Olney used to have three outlets – the Co-op, the library and the OTC office, with the latter piggybacking off the library’s supplies. Now, the only outlet is the Co-op and its supply is patchy. He asked if Olney’s Ward Councillors would support getting the supplies residents need. Peter Geary felt it was wrong that