The Radstock Mayor writes:

Every month, a few members of the Town Council meet in committee to address the details of a plethora of business from replacing broken park benches to agreeing our response to a request or challenge from an external organisation. In fact there are four committees and the councillors are members of at least one with the Mayor being an ex officio member of all four.

Sometimes issues arise which deservedly require input from the residents, especially if they are directly affected by the outcome. For example, the system of rejecting or supporting planning applications can be sensitive and the Council would not come to any decision without listening to the public. In this particular manifestation of the democratic process we can voice the collective opinion of Radstock residents, although we don't have the final say; that is the function of the Unitary Authority.

I mention all this because there are issues to be addressed and plans to be laid in anticipation of post-Covid times. Much of these are to be read about in our new publication, the Wheel, which was recently distributed. What about that redundant telephone kiosk in Southfields? Is it an eyesore to be extirpated or an iconic Gilbert Scott masterpiece to be cherished, renovated and given a new rÈle? What sort of family entertainment could be organised on Haydon Batch: car boot sales, gymkhanas, outdoor market, drive-in cinema? The possibilities are endless.

Thinking of batches… those in the Tyning and Writhington districts of our town are in sore need of attention. There are trees which have fallen over well used paths, unchecked colonisation of Indian balsam in the wetter areas and brambles everywhere. A task force is needed to restore some sort of order so that the batches can be enjoyed by everyone and the natural diversity of fauna and flora protected. Please email me on [email protected] for further details.

Rupert Bevan