From our District Councillor
During the last two months I have been very busy dealing with the issue of
travellers in our ward. Two separate familes were camped by Whiteways Drove for
a long period, causing many problems. We finally had to obtain a court order to
have them moved. Both families eventually moved to locations in Reach. One
family then moved into Swaffham Prior recreation ground, which unfortunately
meant that the Parish Council had to seek a court order to have them evicted.
This cost about £1700.
I work closely with Brian Hicks, East Cambs District Councils travellers Liaison Officer, to deal quickly with the many traveller problems as they arise. But we need stronger laws framed by the government to assist us. I have managed to get the road verges in the Greenhead and Tothill Road areas cleared of weeds. The County Council workers used to use weed killer, but because of Health and Safety regulations they now have to clear them manually.
Being a member of the Council's Licensing Committee, I have had to deliberate on the Licensee's applications for longer opening hours. The way that the government framed the new licensing laws has made it more difficult for individuals to object to applications.