Dear Harleston Residents,
We are excited to share the latest news and developments that shape our community.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key highlights:
Important Community Announcements:
Precept Approval: The Town Council has approved a Precept with a 3% increase. This decision, combined with a slight rise in the tax base, translates into a reduced average tax for Band D property, benefiting our residents.
Annual Town Meeting: Save the date for Wednesday, 13th March at 7 pm for the Annual Town Meeting. The meeting is open for all Harleston Residents to attend, and the Town Council would be delighted if you could join us. You can view the agenda here.
Town Councillor ‘Drop-In’ Surgery: The Town Council now offer a ‘Drop In Surgery’ from 10am to 12noon on the 3rd Saturday of each month in Harleston Information Plus. Any questions raised, along with answers where possible, will be featured on Town Councillor ‘Drop-In’ Surgery page on the website. It’s a great way to stay informed about the various topics being discussed.
Free Text Messaging Service for Businesses: Harleston businesses can now stay informed about town events through our Trial Free Text Messaging Service. If you are a business in town and you would like to participate, email events@harleston-tc.gov.uk
Community Support for Free Parking: We have invited businesses to contribute to free parking and proudly display their support with a window sticker. Keep an eye out for posters in car parks and on our website acknowledging contributors.
We are thrilled to announce our recent grant application approvals: Showing our commitment to supporting vital community initiatives.
- Harleston Information Plus: £6,500
- Harleston Historical Society: £260
- Exchange 2: £1,245
- Redenhall with Harleston & Wortwell PCC: £1,250
Infrastructure Improvements:
- The control plate at the exit of the town car park has undergone an upgrade. The original one wasn’t robust enough and we have also had the ramp before the control flow plate widened.
- We’re mindful of the ongoing ‘vote’ on Facebook regarding the Town car park entrance and exit. Although we regularly assess the arrangements, the current setup remains in place.
- We’ve noted your concerns about potential noise from the new plate. Discussions are ongoing to address and minimize any disruptions.
- We’ve introduced some changes and upgrades to the signage in the car park. These enhancements aim to offer everyone a better and more user-friendly experience.
Outstanding Contractor Actions:
- Church Street: Awaiting implementation of ‘SLOW’ road markings to ensure pedestrian safety.
- Broad Street: Pending installation of wheel stops to prevent vehicles from blocking Broad Street paths.
- Exchange Street: Awaiting updates on the pending Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) for parking changes on Saturdays.
Town Council Actions:
- We are currently awaiting confirmation on the Parish Partnership Funding Scheme Grant for the installation of removable bollards at Exchange Street.
- We are in the waiting phase to receive feedback from South Norfolk District Council regarding the success of two Pride In Place Grant applications. One is for grant funding dedicated to a feasibility study on the current site of the leisure centre building, and the other is for an idea for event in November.
- An investigation is underway to assess the need for re-lining at the Paddock Road entrance, addressing concerns related to worn-out road markings.
- A formal request has been submitted to Norfolk County Council Highways for additional ‘no parking’ signage on the Market Place.
- We are currently looking into replacing the broken toilet bowl in the ladies’ public toilets.
- With the collaboration of a local contractor, efforts are being made to replace the broken wooden bollard in Bullock Fair car park.
- Prompt action has been taken to report the pavement slab issues outside of the barbers and entrance to Reydon house to Norfolk County Council Highways for necessary repairs.
- Quotations are being sought from three builders as part of the process to repair the base of our town sign. We want to assure you that we are actively engaged with both the builders and our insurance company to expedite the process. Although there has been a slight delay, your understanding and patience are greatly appreciated as we work towards a swift resolution.
Various Matters and Applications:
- A formal application has been submitted to South Norfolk District Council (SNDC) for the removal of the Yew Tree at the War Memorial. The decision to seek removal is associated with the ongoing refurbishment of the memorial, a project that has been underway for the past few years. All the trees surrounding the memorial are not recent plantings but rather saplings from previous years. The proposed removal of the Yew Tree is crucial to facilitate the progress of the memorial works.
- Safety concerns pertaining to the A143, particularly the Needham Roundabout, have been diligently reported to both Norfolk County Council Highways and the local Police.
- We are actively addressing issues related to illegal parking, with a specific focus on occurrences along London Road.
- Notably, concerns about litter on Redenhall Road have been officially reported to South Norfolk District Council, and they have assured us of their commitment to carry out a thorough litter pick in the area.
- The kissing gate (Angles way) is scheduled for restoration, South Norfolk District Council are working on this upgrade with the developers, there is no further information at this time.
Harleston Leisure Centre
Take advantage of the New Year gym offer, providing 6 months for the price of 5.
Act fast as this promotion concludes on February 29th. Don’t miss out, sign up now to seize this opportunity.
Visit Harleston
There’s a free lucky dip for Valentine’s Day and Pancake Day for children aged 4 to 13, in Harleston Information Plus until the 16th February.
Upcoming Events: March 9th: Mother’s Day Creation Station on the Market Place.
Explore our full 2024 event calendar on the Visit Harleston website.