#StayHomeSaveLives

Please keep a look out for a postcard dropping through your letterbox in the next few days. This is from Dorset Council and contains key information, as well as contacts should you need help or support through this Lockdown.

“Thank you to everyone who is following government advice to stay at home, and for playing your part to help reduce COVID-19 infection rates in the Dorset Council area.“- Dorset Council.

To stay updated on Dorset Council’s services, click HERE.

Contact details for our Parish Councillors can be found HERE.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#BWGPC,#DorsetCouncil,#StayHomeSaveLives,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Councillor Simon Christopher’s Report – Jan 2021

Here is our local Councillor Simon Christopher’s interim report submitted to the Parish Council’s meeting last evening.

“As I write this, the number of Covid patients in Dorset hospitals is 340 ( Source Sam Crowe, Public health Dorset. 8th January 2021). A great deal of my report will be devoted to Covid matters.

Common Water Lane
I am aware of the damage to Common Water Lane and the verges.
As Councillor David Leader is aware, I have sent considerable emails and had phone calls with Dorset Police and officers of Dorset Council in connection with Common Water Lane.

Comments of Dorset Police/Alex Bishop

My understanding from Dorset Police is that there are two points in regards to the action Police can take in these matters.

First is the reaction to reports made to police of specific incidents, such as investigations. Alex Bishop advises me that neither the moving of the bale, nor the damage to the finger sign have been reported. He stated that over the course of the last few months that Common Water Lane has had these issues, the police have had very few reports of any offences being committed. Any police response to a report that vehicles are on the lane, will be triggered via the threat, risk and harm protocols they have in deciding how to allocate resources. I understand that it is unlikely police officers will attend unless there is an urgent need to attend.
The second is proactive policing, such as area patrols. Dorset have advised me that some officers have attended Common Water Lane here and there whilst they have been on night duty, but it is difficult for them to spend much time there as there are other incidents to attend to.

2) Comments of Dorset Council Legal Team – Philip Crowther, Legal Business Partner.

My understanding from Philip Crowther is that Dorset Council is responsible for maintaining Common Water Lane, including the verges because it is a vehicular highway. My understanding is that Dorset Council has various powers which it could in theory use to stop irresponsible 4×4 drivers damaging the verges. I believe the Parish Council Chairman has been given the reasons via email why a number of those powers are very difficult to use in practice. My understanding of the action that is most likely to succeed is that Dorset council have the power to erect fences or bollards to prevent vehicles using the verges. However any fences or bollards must not interfere with any agricultural fence or gate or with an access to private properties. I understand that fencing was erected some years ago with some success albeit that it had to be left open at each end to allow access for the landowner to cut their hedges. This was done with the Friends of Common Water Lane (The Friends) and it allowed the verges to recover in a fairly short time. Mike Westwood (Dorset Highways) is happy to discuss working with the Parish Council and the Friends to look at erecting fencing or bollards again. It is my understanding that this is the solution which carries the most chance of resolving the problem. The need to consider the issues around maintaining any fencing and/or bollards would have to be discussed.

3) Comments of Senior Ranger (West & Coast) Russell Goff

I understand from Russell Goff that he is happy to be the liaison if the Friends would like to go down the fencing route as they use excellent contractors.
Russell also suggests that perhaps a joint press release from the parish highlighting this antisocial behaviour and damage may, in the short term prevent further damage.
My understanding is that a covert wildlife camera in order to catch those responsible in the act could be installed. The Council would need to know what the law is regarding using the footage gained from this.

Here is the the Government’s latest advice for parents and carers: Click HERE to access.

Long Description – Government information for Parents and Carers

Schools and colleges in Dorset remain open for critical workers and vulnerable children, details of who is included is HERE. Other children will move to remote learning.

Early years settings, special schools, alternative provision and learning centres in Dorset can remain open to all children. We are updating our Childcare directory, please contact your provider if you have specific enquiries.

Free school meals update – 5 Jan

Dorset Council is working with schools to make sure families who need it (including those who receive free school meals) can receive food vouchers if they are not in school. If your child gets free school meals their school will give you details. Find out more HERE.

School transport in Dorset update – 5 Jan

All school transport, including SEND transport, will continue to run. This may be reviewed in future if routes aren’t used.

Home learning resources for parents and carers

Schools are offering remote learning to families, HERE are some extra resources to help families, we are updating these at the moment too.

Dorset Council has worked closely with schools throughout the pandemic to support school leaders. Our schools have been open throughout for children of key workers and children with additional vulnerabilities.

Leader of Dorset Council Spencer Flower said: “We are proud of our schools, colleges and early years settings and our education leaders in Dorset and will continue to support them.”

Lockdown

You will perhaps have already seen that Dorset Council is calling for front line public sector workers to be prioritised for vaccines.

This is a particularly concerning time for our most vulnerable children and families and this continued period of restrictions will no doubt be having an increased impact. Right from the start of this pandemic all partners have been committed and continued to work incredibly hard to support the children and families. A reminder that the government guidance on safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care can be found HERE.

Children’s Centres update

Our Children’s Centre core sites will remain open for the services listed below:

health service appointments where required
family time
parenting assessments
where childcare is provided

Parenting groups will however have to move online.

IT equipment for families who are homeschooling

We are working in partnership with our school colleagues to ensure that children can access learning wherever possible through mobile devices in Dorset. The DfE have significantly increased the number of devices available for secondary schools to order for vulnerable children. We’re assisting school colleagues in getting these orders processed and out to families. A similar approach is expected for our primary school colleagues, we are awaiting information on this. Meanwhile we have been made aware of some issues in Dorset of children not being able to access IT equipment and are dealing with these on a case by case basis. Currently we’re looking at whether we can repurpose some of our old machines and issuing wireless routers to enable children to get on line. I am once again incredibly impressed by the strength and resilience shown across our Early Years, Schools and Colleges.

Finally, on a financial note.

Dorset Councillors were advised that despite an overspend during the year , the delivery of more than £10 million of savings from the reorganisation had been achieved. The executive director of corporate development has highlighted a general point about collecting council tax, in that at present we are in exceptional times and officers were tracking but not actively pursuing collections given the economic frailty. The needed to wait until a more normal time to actively pursue. Officers are forecasting around £13million worth of Council Tax and business rates could be at risk but would continue to be monitored.

Stay Safe.”

Councillor Simon Christopher
Dorset Councillor for The Marshwood Vale.
https://www.simonchristopher.info/

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#BWGPC,#SimonChristopher,#DorsetCouncil,#NationalLockdown,#Covid19,#2021,#WearYourMask,#StayAtHome,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Broadwindsor Cricket Club’s History

After successfully securing the funding enabling Broadwindsor Cricket Club to purchase the land and place the Freehold in a Trust – there are several plans and developments in place. In preparation for the Club’s Centenary, Clive Stafford-Smith OBE has carried out some research and is collating the history of the Club.
If anyone has any photographs or information to contribute, please email Clive at: Clive@Reprieve.org.uk. Read what he’s uncovered so far HERE.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#Village,#BWCC,#CliveSSmith,#BWGPC,#Community,#LoveCricket,#Sport,#Family,#DorsetCouncil,#BeKind,#StaySafe

Tell Dorset Council Your Thoughts On Their Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy

Originally published on 17th November, Dorset Council are still looking for people to give them feedback on their plans to tackle climate change. Responses must be in by Wednesday, 20th January 2021.

Climate and ecological change is the greatest existential threat we have ever faced. The great majority of scientific evidence, built up over many years, shows that the planet is getting warmer and that human activity is the main contributor to this warming.

Their work to help tackle the problem in Dorset is incredibly important. Just sitting by and letting others address this crisis is not an option. We need to work together to overcome this monumental challenge. What we all do – or don’t do – to address this climate and ecological emergency will impact our children, grandchildren and every other generation for centuries to come.

If you haven’t done so already, please take the time to read their strategy and action plan, HERE and then let them know what you think HERE. You don’t have to answer every question and you can save your progress so you can come back later to complete.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#DorsetCouncil,#WestDorset,#ClimateChange,#EmergencyStrategy,#SocialDistancing,#StayAtHome,#StaySafe

Dorset Now in Tier 3

Recently announced, Dorset has been moved from Tier 2 (High Alert) to Tier 3 (Very High Alert) from 31st December. Here are the new guidelines:

What you can and cannot do in Tier 3 – Click HERE.

Here is what’s happening in the rest of the South West:

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#BWGPC,#SocialDistancing,#Tier3,#DorsetCouncil,#Covid19,#Community,#DorsetPolice,#BeResponsible,#WearYourMask,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

COVID-19

There has been a significant increase in cases of COVID-19 in the last couple of weeks in both BCP Council and Dorset Council areas, as well as a rise in hospital admissions.

If this continues, it is likely our Tier shall change from 2 to the more restrictive Tier 3. Please stay safe, play your part in stopping the spread of COVID-19 and protect your loved ones.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#BWGPC,#SocialDistancing,#DorsetCouncil,#Covid19,#Community,#DorsetPolice,#BeResponsible,#WearYourMask,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Boris Changes The Rules For Christmas

Announced a short while ago, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said we cannot continue as planned. He has introduced a Tier 4 for London and issued a new ‘stay at home’ order covering London and much of the south and east of England.

Here is the full transcript of his statement:

“Good afternoon,

I am sorry to report that the situation has deteriorated since I last spoke to you three days ago.

Yesterday afternoon, I was briefed on the latest data showing the virus spreading more rapidly in London, the South East and the East of England than would be expected given the tough restrictions which are already in place.

I also received an explanation for why the virus is spreading more rapidly in these areas. It appears this spread is now being driven by the new variant of the virus, which we first learned about earlier this week.

Our advisory group on New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats – NERVTAG – has spent the last few days analysing the new variant.

There is no evidence the variant causes more severe illness or higher mortality, but it does appear to be passed on significantly more easily.

NERVTAG’s early analysis suggests the new variant could increase R by 0.4 or greater. Although there is considerable uncertainty, it may be up to 70% more transmissible than the old variant.

This is early data. It is subject to review. It is the best we have at the moment, and we have to act on information as we have it because this is now spreading very fast.

The U.K. has by far the best genomic sequencing ability in the world, which means we are better able to identify new strains like this than any other country.

The Chief Medical Officer last night submitted our findings so far to the World Health Organisation and we will continue to be totally transparent with our global partners.

There is still much we don’t know. While we are fairly certain the variant is transmitted more quickly, there is no evidence to suggest that it is more lethal or causes more severe illness. Equally there is no evidence to suggest the vaccine will be any less effective against the new variant.

Our experts will continue their work to improve our understanding of the variant.

So we are learning more about this variant as we go.

But we know enough already to be sure that we must act now.

I met ministers on the Covid Operations Committee last night and again first thing this morning, and Cabinet met at lunchtime to agree the following actions.

First, we will introduce new restrictions in the most affected areas – specifically those parts of London, the South East and the East of England which are currently in tier 3.

These areas will enter a new tier 4, which will be broadly equivalent to the national restrictions which were in place in England in November.

That means:

Residents in those areas must stay at home, apart from limited exemptions set out in law. Non-essential retail, indoor gyms and leisure facilities, and personal care services must close. People must work from home if they can, but may travel to work if this is not possible, for example in the construction and manufacturing sectors. People should not enter or leave tier 4 areas, and tier 4 residents must not stay overnight away from home. Individuals can only meet one person from another household in an outdoor public space.

Unlike the November national restrictions, communal worship can continue to take place in tier 4 areas.

These measures will take effect from tomorrow morning.

All tiers will continue to be regularly reviewed in line with the approach previously set out, with the next formal review point taking place on 30 December.

Second, we are issuing new advice on travel.

Although the new variant is concentrated in tier 4 areas, it is nonetheless present at lower levels around the country.

We are asking everyone, in all tiers, to stay local.

People should carefully consider whether they need to travel abroad and follow the rules in their tier.

Those in tier 4 areas will not be permitted to travel abroad apart from limited exceptions, such as for work purposes.

Third, we must, I am afraid, look again at Christmas.

As Prime Minister, it is my duty to take the difficult decisions, to do what is right to protect the people of this country.

Given the early evidence we have on this new variant of the virus, and the potential risk it poses, it is with a heavy heart that I must tell you we cannot continue with Christmas as planned.

In England, those living in tier 4 areas should not mix with anyone outside their own household at Christmas, though support bubbles will remain in place for those at particular risk of loneliness or isolation.

Across the rest of the country, the Christmas rules allowing up to three households to meet will now be limited to Christmas Day only, rather than the five days as previously set out.

As before, there will be no relaxation on 31 December, so people must not break the rules at New Year.

I know how much emotion people invest in this time of year, and how important it is for grandparents to see their grandchildren, and for families to be together.

So I know how disappointing this will be, but we have said throughout this pandemic that we must and we will be guided by the science.

When the science changes, we must change our response.

When the virus changes its method of attack, we must change our method of defence.

As your Prime Minister, I sincerely believe there is no alternative open to me. Without action, the evidence suggests infections would soar, hospitals would become overwhelmed and many thousands more would lose their lives.

I want to stress we are not alone in this fight – many of our European friends and neighbours are being forced to take similar action.

We are working closely with the devolved administrations to protect people in every part of the UK.

Of course there is now hope – real hope – that we will soon be rid of this virus.

That prospect is growing with every day that passes and every vaccine dose administered.

The UK was the first country in the western world to start using a clinically approve vaccine.

So please, if the NHS contacts you then get your vaccine – and join the 350,000 people across the UK who have already had their first dose.

Yes, Christmas this year will be very different, but we must be realistic.

We are sacrificing our chance to see loved ones this Christmas, so we have a better chance of protecting their lives so we can see them at future Christmases.

As sure as night follows day, we will beat back this virus.

We will defeat it.

And we will reclaim our lives.”

Published 19 December 2020

#Broadwindsor,#Dorset,#DorsetCouncil,#GovernmentGuidlelines,#Covid19,#CancelChristmas,#FamilySacrifice,#Tier4,#SocialDistancing,#WearYourMask,#Christmas2020,#StaySafe,#BeKind

Urgent Temporary Closure of Potwell Farm Road, Mosterton

On Monday 21st December at 9.30am until 3.30pm, all vehicles will be prohibited from proceeding along Potwell Farm Road, Mosterton between Littlewindsor Farm junction and the entrance to Potwell Farm.
This is to enable BT safe access to overhead network cable renewal to restore customers out of service.
The alternative route will be signposted – Mosterton Cross – A3066 – B3164 – Littlewindsor Farm Junction.

Although in force for five days, it is anticipated that the work will be completed by the 21st December.

Any unauthorised Person who uses or permits the use of the road(s) indicated in contravention of the Notice will be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £1,000.

For more information on any Roadworks or Closures, please contact:
Dorset Highways Traffic Team – 01305 221020 or email: trafficteam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
For more information on the Work being undertaken, please contact:
BT – 01234 773833

#Broadwindsor,#WestDorset,#DorsetCouncil,#Roadworks,#DorsetHighways,#BT,#Diversion,#PotwellFarm,#RoadClosed,#Littlewindsor,#SocialDistancing,#BeSafe,#DriveSafe,#StaySafe

Free Winter Coats or Pyjamas Available for Ages 3 to 12yr olds

From today, Dorset Council have lots of quality new and nearly new coats and pyjamas available for ages three to 12, so don’t miss out. Pick-up points will be open across Dorset from Monday 14^thto Sunday 20^th December

Please just drop-in, there are no checks, forms or pre-booking – simply help where it’s needed.

There are several pick-up points throughout Dorset, the two closest to our parish are:

Bridport Children’s Centre
Skilling Hill Road, Bridport, DT6 5LA
Tel: 01308 421714
Pick up dates/times: Mon 14 – Fri 18, 3-4pm
Age UK Bridport Shop
West Street, Bridport
Pick up dates/times: Mon 14th – Sat 19, 10am – 4pm

Vulnerable families in Dorset will receive help with the costs of food and fuel this winter. Dorset Council has been awarded up to £922,153 from the government’s Covid Winter Grant Scheme to support children and families across the county.

Some of this money will be used to make sure families who need it, including those who receive free school meals, receive food vouchers during the Christmas holidays and February half term. Families will receive details of this scheme direct from their school.

Dorset Council is also working with partner agencies to target support to help families facing fuel poverty this winter, more details will be available soon.

#Broadwindsor,#Dorset,#DorsetCouncil,#WinterCoats,#Children,#CovidWinterGrant,#SocialDistancing,#StaySafe

Overnight Parking Restrictions & Road Closures Next Week

The road closure on Chard Road, Drimpton will be lifted after 3.30 pm today but will be closed again on Monday 14 December between 9.30 and 3.30. The reason for the extra day is due to engineering difficulties with the fibre cable.

Overnight Parking Restrictions at Hogshill – 14th Dec.

At 9pm on Monday, 14th December the A3066 road, Hogshill Street in Beaminster will be closed until 6am. This is to allow BT safe access to arrange cabling for a new customer connection.

Although in force for five days, it is anticipated that the work will be completed by the 16th December.

There will be parking restriction imposed overnight as indicated on the map below. Download the full information HERE.

Any unauthorised Person who uses or permits the use of the road(s) indicated in contravention of the Notice will be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £1,000.

Temporary Closure of Potwell Lane, Littlewindsor – 16th Dec.

At 9am on Wednesday, 16th December, the road will be closed until 15.30hrs. All vehicles will be prohibited from proceeding between the access road to Potwell Farm and its junction with the access road to Potwell Gorse.
This is to allow BT to safely install 6 new telegraph poles.
The alternative route will be signposted – A3066 – A3164 – Mosterton

Although in force for five days, it is anticipated that the work will be completed by the 17th December.

More Information:

#Broadwindsor,#WestDorset,#DorsetCouncil,#Roadworks,#BT,#Beaminster,#NoParking,#Potwell,#RoadClosed,#SocialDistancing,#DriveSafe,#StaySafe

Tag: #DorsetCouncil

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