Mountfield

SW CONSTRUCTION WORKS: There have been some issues with the noise from early morning operations, particularly in Solomon’s Lane. When these were raised with the contractors, MGjv, they immediately volunteered to try to limit the start of noise-generating activities to an 8.00 am start. This is an extraordinary response but not one that will surprise any local people who have had any contact with Glenn, Tony, Richard or any of the other blokes in hi-viz. To a man, they have been a credit to themselves and SW for whom they are working.

VILLAGE PLANTING: A final reminder (for now) that the Parish Council is looking for people to join a steering group to help plan a village-wide planting scheme. The idea is that, as the scars from the construction work heal, Mountfield should emerge as a village with a smile of flowers on its face: planted bulbs, wild flower areas, completely wild areas, butterfly- and bee-friendly areas and bird nesting areas — the possibilities are endless. This would make the village a more pleasant place to live in and visit and a place to be proud of. (And it wouldn’t harm house values for those concerned with such things. Funding is available from a variety of sources. It just all needs to be planned over a number of phases. Anyone with any ideas, or willing to help drive the scheme, is asked to contact Steve Rickman Smith (880410) or Peter (see below) or one of the other councillors (see website). You don’t need to be an expert.

JOHN’S CROSS WATER MAIN: We should repeat that we now have details of the other major utility construction scheme in Mountfield. South East Water will be replacing the water main between Barracks Cottages and the old lodge south of the weighbridge. The new main will run down the A21 itself before turning off into the lay-by opposite Vinehall School. This will replace the old main which mostly runs under the properties from the old pub southwards. Work is scheduled to start next month and to last up to six months. To try and limit the adverse effect of the works, South East Water will conduct most of the work by boring and moling rather than open trenching. As we reported last week, the Parish Council have found SEW to be refreshingly open to deal with which, as we know from our contact with SW’s contractors, MGjv, makes a world of difference. If anyone requires further information, all parish councillors have complete construction maps.

FINALLY: As ever, we can be contacted on 880614 (if no reply, just leave us your details on the answerphone) or via [email protected]. We always welcome contributions and feedback.

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