At the last meeting of Somercotes Parish Council it was my  honour to be elected as Chairman once again.

Firstly, I would like to welcome on behalf of the Council, our two new Councillors,  Vicki Bonsall and Paul Slater.  They are very welcome additions and I am sure they will complement the team admirably. 

 I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to the newly formed Phoenix Bowls Club who will be playing on the outdoors green at Somercotes Park.  If you would like to try your hand as this very sociable sport or are already a seasoned player, the club welcomes people who want to find out more.  .   Contact Trev on 01773 765465 for further details.  

On a less positive note,  there has recently been an act of vandalism on Somercotes Parks.  This will not be tolerated.  The police have been informed and have increased their patrols accordingly.

After last summer’s disappointing hanging baskets display, the Council has a new contractor this year and although the baskets have just been installed they already look very promising.

The Parish Council has now completed the installation of a new defibrillator.  It is located on the side of the Parish Council Annex on the Market Place Car Park, Somercotes.  The Council will be arranging some training sessions for those interested in attending and these  will be advertised shortly on  Council Notice Boards;  the Councils’ website:   www.somercotesparishcouncil.co.uk and facebook page www.facebook.com/somercotespc

Finally on a more general matter,  I can confirm that  Amber Valley Borough Council has withdrawn its draft Local Plan due to residents complaints.