AT the February meeting of Sandford Parish Council an up-date was given on the the construction of the Sandford Community Sports Pavilion.

In his report to the parish council, Andrew Webb (contract manager) reported: “work has proceeded at an excellent pace”.

The clerk reported a quote of £426 had been received from the council’s insurers to cover building and contents for the new building.

Two items were raised in the Open Forum:?1) The Millennium Green, Sandford, planning application for installation of shipping container for storage. Members explained that it was their intention (subject to planning permission) to place a shipping container in the the car park (against the hedge). It would not be visible from the road and would be used for storage of tools and equipment). Later in the meeting the parish council agreed to raise no objection to the application.?2) The request from Sandford Community Stores for a dedicated parking space next to the shop.?A representative of the committee explained that in view of their “declining shop sales”, and reduced foot fall, they wished further consideration be given to their previous request for a parking space.?A discussion then took place over the the ongoing parking issues in the Square, which it was pointed out was within the Village Conservation Area.?County Councillor Mrs Margaret Squires suggested that the best option would be to erect an advisory sign.?It was resolved to hold a joint meeting with Devon Highways, Mid Devon District Council, and the police to discuss the matter further.

The clerk reported that BT had sent the contract to adopt the Mill Lane telephone call box, which was signed by the chairman and a payment of £1 was agreed.

BT have offered to supply paint to re-paint the box and asked the number of pains of grass in need of replacing.

At the next meeting discussion will take place over future use of the call box.

Sandford Congregational Church and St Swithun’s PCC had sent letters of thanks for their churchyard donations.

The Annual Parish Meeting takes place on Thursday, March 16, 7.30pm, at Sandford Parish Hall and this year there will be two speakers, one from the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, and another on the recent donation of a defibrillator for Sandford, from the British Heart Foundation, which is to be installed outside Sandford Community Stores.

“The Crossing” has generously agreed to cover the installation costs.

Tania Weeks (Devon County Council Public Rights of Way) had replied to an enquiry from the clerk regarding the Public Enquiry setting out the current position regarding Restricted Byway No 50 Sandford.

The hearing is set to take place at 10am on April 26 at Sandford Congregational Church. All parishioners are welcome to attend and make their representations.

The next parish council meeting will take place on Thursday, March 2 at which arrangements will be made for the Annual Village Spring Clean.

MJV