By Geoff Fisher 
At its meeting on Wednesday 14 October, Reepham Town Council discussed potential future housing in the town in advance of the development of the current Greater Norwich Local Plan.
It was agreed that Community Action Norfolk will be asked to carry out a housing needs survey, which can help find out what types of housing are really needed in the area and could potentially help shape any future housing plans.
At the meeting, the town council co-opted three new councillors: David Jackson, Niamh Kelly and Ron McArthur (see below). Reports were received from County Councillor Dave Thomas and PC Denis Evans.
A new 50-year tenancy agreement was agreed between the diocese and the town council for the Fiddlers Field allotment site.
It was agreed that the clerk should obtain quotes to replace the fluorescent strip lights in the town hall with low-energy LED lights. Grant funding will be sought to assist with financing this.
The public toilets in Pudding Pie Alley are currently owned by Broadland District Council and managed by the town council on its behalf. The district council is keen to dispose of this asset, and has offered it to the town council, along with a commuted sum for future maintenance. Following discussion, it was agreed that the town council will take on this asset to safeguard it for the future.
Planning applications were discussed, including the cable corridor for the approved solar farm near Whitwell. After hearing concerns from a resident close to the proposed cable route, the town council will contact the developer, Albanwise Synergy, to ascertain the width of the corridor, the potential impact on nearby residents and how long it is expected to be for.
The next meeting of Reepham Town Council is on Wednesday 11 November at 7.30 pm at Stimpson’s Piece Pavilion, Bartle Court, Reepham, with the Stimpson’s Piece Trustee meeting following at 8.30 pm. If you want to know more or get involved, just contact the clerk on 01603 873355 or email or check the council website.
There is currently one vacancy on the town council. Anyone interested should contact the clerk for further information and an informal chat.
Reepham Town Hall and Stimpson’s Piece Community Hall & Pavilion are available to hire. Please contact the clerk on 01603 873355 or email for availability and prices.
Notes supplied by Reepham Town Council. Full minutes can be found on the town council website.
Meet Reepham’s new town councillors
Ron McArthur has lived in Reepham for 35 years and has joined the town council with a focus on protecting the area’s dark skies. He aims to promote night‑friendly lighting to support wildlife, reduce energy use and maintain naturally dark conditions. He also hopes to expand public access to Reepham Observatory and its large telescope at Reepham College, encouraging more community use and public events.
David Jackson brings extensive professional experience as a project manager, having spent 31 years at Aviva followed by 11 years overseeing IT infrastructure projects for the Ministry of Defence. He has lived in Reepham with his family since 1988 and says he wants to support the town’s amenities and help ensure Reepham remains a great place to live, work and visit.
Niamh Kelly has recently returned to Reepham after completing a geography degree in Leeds. Having grown up in the town, she now works in the local schools and has previously worked at Flower Folk. She says she is keen to use her skills and knowledge to support the community and help maintain Reepham as a welcoming, safe and attractive place to live.
Photo: gustavorezende/Pixabay