'GREMLINS'

My piece in the February Journal (p12) had an attack of the 'gremlins'. The final sentence of the third paragraph should have read 'a number of these issues come within the remit of EHDC Joint Members Panel and Buntingford Civic Society questions whether the voice of Buntingford is heard in that forum?'. An all together different meaning from that published.

We understand that a number of 'gripes' listed last month are being addressed. New fencing should soon appear along the River Rib. It is also understood that roadside parking signage will be made uniform and that conservation area lines are to be laid in the High Street.

The bad news is that EHDC are imposing parking charges. Readers with a droll sense of humour will grimace to learn that EHDC quoted a MORI poll which showed that residents elsewhere in East Herts considered it 'unfair' that Buntingford had free parking!!! We wonder whether they also believe it 'unfair' that we are the highest Council Tax payers?

A constant cause of concern amongst members and non members of the Civic Society are the demands of the East of England Regional Assembly and the possibility of a Gypsy and Traveller site close to or within Buntingford. Such an eventuality would have long lasting effects on the character of the town and there is a serious lack of specific information from EHDC.

Residents want to know 'will it happen?','where will it be?','how much will it cost on my Council Tax?','what will be the impact on local services such as schools and healthcare?'.

The Civic Trust has a nationwide network of 750 societies and 250,000 members. It is consulted on a wide range of topics by central government. To non members we say now is the time to join and 'Have a Voice' on the issues which impact on your life and your town.

Elsewhere there is notice of our AGM - there is an open invitation to non members and we promise it will be a good event so come along.

Derek K Cooper, Chairman.