Reports from our County Councillors — October/November 2012
As we all know, the economic climate throughout the country continues to be poor and Amble is no exception, but I would like to inform residents that there is a group of people who are working together to try and improve the situation in the town. This group (of which I am part) has had meetings to discuss the potential that exists to create employment and increase tourism to Amble. It is made up of local businesses, councillors, representatives of N.C.C. and some local organisations.
The first actions are taking place very shortly in the form of contact with businesses throughout Northumberland to determine whether they would support a potential project based at the old Northumberland Foods site. I am not able to give any further information at this time but I am sure over the next few months residents will be made aware of the efforts that are taking place to create much needed employment.
Tourism remains important to Amble’s future and in a move to make it more attractive, I have agreed to part fund (as has Councillor Arckless) a “Welcome to Amble” sign and planter at the Amble end of Rotary Way. It now needs the approval of the Town Council and this attractive planter could be installed at no cost to the town’s precept.
Once again the issue of children climbing over the wall of the Welfare and running across the road has come up. This is very dangerous as lines of sight for motorists are not the best in the world. Please encourage youngsters who are using the facilities to use the proper exits and entrances very carefully to keep them safe.
My wife and I recently moved into Amble and I am pleased to say that we are very happy in our new home and neighbourhood.
I am available to you on Jeffrey.watson@northumberland.gov.uk and 07802385367
Jeff Watson
County Councillor Amble West with Warkworth
The new parking regime has certainly proved to be controversial and has been top of my complaints list this summer. Motorists are angry because they feel victimised. Traders are angry because they fear (with good reason) that their businesses are threatened in what is already a difficult economic climate. Residents are angry because there is a knock on effect in neighbouring streets and for those who live in our main shopping area life has become much more complicated. Confusion over interpretation of the regulations hasn’t helped.
I want to work with Amble Town Council the Business Club and local residents to produce a review of the present parking regulations. It is frustrating that the pace of change is slow; there has to be proper consultation and that will take time. I have made direct representations to the County Council’s most senior officers that the present situation is causing real damage to our town and urgent action is needed to bring improvements.
Amble Library: a community hub
For three years I have pressed for improvements at Amble Library to reflect the range of services delivered there. The building has character and the staff are the best ambassadors the County Council has. I am assured that a scheme is now under consideration which it is hoped will be completed by next spring; this will reflect the new range of services and will refresh a much loved service.
A summer to celebrate
Our “golden summer” may not have been blessed with much sun, but a Jubilee, Royal visit and the Olympic and Paralympic events have been truly memorable. As a disabled person I hope that the amazing Paralympic athletes will prove an inspiration and help to bring hope and change attitudes.
Robert Arckless
Telephone 01665 711938
Email Robert.Arckless99@northumberland.gov.uk
