Bishop's Waltham Parish Council
Annual Report April 2010 – February 2011

Buildings Committee Report - Chairman’s Report

The Buildings Committee continues the rolling Maintenance and Renewals programme for Hoe Road Pavilion and the Tractor Shed as well as the Jubilee Hall and Priory Park Clubhouse with their adjoining Car Parks. Well House is let to the C.A.B, there the responsibility is for building repairs only.

The County Youth Team found the Hoe Road Pavilion unsuitable as a meeting place for Bishop’s Waltham Youth Club. Following a transfer to the small hall at Jubilee Hall every Thursday evening, the Leaders also visit young people in various venues across the village.

External lighting has been installed at Hoe Road Recreation Ground Car Park; these also give light towards the Guide HQ., the Pavilion and Tractor Shed. They were designed to be sensitive to nearby residential properties. Drainage works are on-going in front of the Tractor Shed to prevent flooding and a washroom has been built inside with provision for drying wet clothing.

The new heating system at Priory Park Clubhouse keeps the whole building drier and warmer for all hirers, together with internal decoration, external repair and preservation of cedar panels, the building is set-up for another year or two.

The toilets at Jubilee Hall have been upgraded and refurbished, together with the disabled toilet being relocated with the foyer. The CCTV system has been extended and upgraded to give increased security. The new rail and backdrop curtains improve the facilities on the stages, in addition to the stage lighting improvements.

All the ‘urgent’ and ‘within a year’ recommendations from the 2008 survey were completed by 2009. The longer term renewals are being incorporated into maintenance plans for 2011/13, subject to budget. Annual maintenance plans are to be continued for all the buildings in accordance with disability discrimination, electrical, gas and fire regulations. The committee has considered very carefully future budget requirements, to comply with Parish Council policy at this time. At present, all the Parish Council Buildings are in good order and fit for purpose.

The Committee thanks Kathryn Lindsay and Stephanie, the Caretakers, the Grounds Staff and Councillors for all their help, not forgetting the hirers who keep us all going.

Cllr D Underwood
February 2011