Snow Clearing

Last autumn the Parish Council agreed a severe weather policy in the event of the winter conditions we experienced last year. Until the first week of February we thought this had done the trick as it seemed to keep the snow away.

No such luck.

Last Sunday (5th February) about twelve volunteers swung into action with the aim of clearing pathways in some of the key areas of the village. In a short time they made an impact by removing the loose snow before it became hard packed and then spreading salt and grit which had been supplied by Essex County Council.

Without knowing how long these conditions would last the hope was that this would make movement about the village easier and safer. The feedback shows these efforts were appreciated and the entire village is grateful to those who volunteered. It was a great example of what can be achieved by communities working together and hopefully on the next occasion more will be willing to join in. Snow was cleared from the pathways to the shops doctors’ surgery, bus stops, Heathlands School and around the Playschool. Just imagine what could have been achieved with more volunteers. If you would like to help then contact Harry Stone on 241026.

It's never too early to plan for severe weather

Although we are now only just coming towards Autumn, West Bergholt Parish Council have been hard at work developing a 'Severe Weather Policy' in anticipation of a return of last winter's dire weather. The policy has been formulated with the intention of mitigating the hazardous effects of snow and ice that occurred in key areas last winter.
Priority areas have been identified as follows:-

• School and Heath Land approach paths. 
• Orpen Hall area paths 
• Shop approaches
• Bus stop areas 
• Unpaved roads 
• Doctors Surgery approach paths 

The Parish Council is investigating the number of grit/salt bins in the village and identifying areas where we may need more.

Clearing equipment will be required e.g. snow clearing boards/shovels, gritters, safety cones, high visibility jackets, safety gloves. Essex County Highways department and Colchester Borough Council will be contacted regarding support for this policy and supply of equipment.

Volunteers please. 

If we are to mitigate the hazardous effects of winter weather we will need volunteers from village residents to set up teams to put plans into action when necessary.  If you are able and prepared to help with implementing this policy we would be pleased to hear from you, particularly if you live in the vicinity of the priority areas listed above.

Please contact:- David Short, Chairman of Environment Committee, Parish Council. Tel: 241715 or the Parish Clerk by email - westbergholtpc@googlemail.com

 Meanwhile let us hope for some sunny weather before we need to put severe weather plans into action.