Parish Assembly

AT the annual Parish Assembly at Upwell village hall parish council chairman, Councillor Morgan presented his annual report, summarising the activities of the previous year, highlighting the co-option of three new councillors and appointment of a new parish clerk, the publication of the parish plan, establishment of an overview committee to review performance and enable forward planning and the work on a new website for the parish. He also reported on the work being done to establish a Home Watch scheme for the Upwell area; and noted the success of the new Youth Group, which meets at the pavilion on the playing field on Tuesday evenings. He also thanked Councillor Hazel Medlock, a councillor for 25 years now retiring and not seeking re-election at the May polls, and Councillor Paul Williams, a councillor for 12 years who is standing down due to work and family commitments.

Borough councillors David Pope and Vivienne Spikings delivered a joint report on borough council activities. Councillor Pope highlighted the problems West Norfolk Borough Council had faced with the flooding of Welney Washes for more than 90 days this year, and the impact on residents and businesses in the area. He also spoke about the issue of siltation on the area's waterways.

Councillor Spikings reported on issues faced by the borough council's planning department due to staff shortages and the postponement of the publication of the local plan. She also highlighted the borough council's efforts towards acquiring funding for the pavilion, providing training for parish councillors and providing low cost housing.