From our District Councillor

Have your say at Development Control Meetings.

At W.D.C. Development Control meetings, Parish Councillors are able to address the Committee on planning applications in their Parish; they may speak for three minutes after the Planning Officer has introduced the application, and before the Committee discuss it and make their decision.

A new initiative will also allow the public to speak at these meetings, and will follow the same procedure. Provided the recommendation is accepted by the Members, it will apply to applications registered on or after 2nd March 2000; once the decision is made, an explanatory leaflet will be made available.

As Chairman of this Committee I fully support the recommendation, and have encouraged the setting up of a working group who have visited neighbouring authorities who have open meetings, to help us to produce a manageable scheme. We shall monitor the first seven to eight months to allow for changes if necessary. We shall probably agree to one or two objectors and the applicant speaking for 3 minutes on an application, prior to the committee debate. Clearly, this will apply to committee applications only, and not to those delegated to the Officers.

"Very few of us are lucky enough to enjoy our jobs all day, every day. But if you are finding you’ve got more than the usual post-holiday or Monday morning blues, it’s definitely worth coming to see us at the Adult Careers Guidance Service. We can help you to improve your prospects or try something new."

Planning up-date

The application for an organic farm off Lodge Road has been refused on Rural policies - as expected - but an appeal has been lodged. Those who have already written letters of objection may feel like sending a further letter, but your current letters will be forwarded to the Inspector. The Appeal is being conducted through written submissions, and the background is shown earlier in this Newsletter.

The Highways subcommittee rescheduled for 21st February will determine the application to relocate Footpath 9, opposite the Green Man.

The new traffic calming proposals for Davis Street and Sandford Lane will also be discussed, together with an application for a footway on Lodge Road from Nursery Close to Sawpit Road (a safer journey to schools request).

Careers Advice ... it's not just for youngsters

On the left are the words of Michele Smith from the Adult Careers Guidance Service, which provides advice, help and support for people who work or live in the Wokingham district. The service is available to people who pay council tax to Wokingham District Council or work for a company in the Council's area. The Adult Careers Guidance Service is also keen to work with small companies in the area, offering staff with lower-level qualifications the chance to discuss ways of developing their skills.

I am the council's representative on this committee, and encourage all who would like to return to work after a career gap, those who have been made redundant or are unemployed to take advantage of this unique service for those who live or work in the Wokingham District. If you would like to know more, contact Michele Smith on 0118 978 xxxx at St. Florian House, Milton Road, Wokingham.

Annette Drake