Chairmans Report
Chairman’s Report 2023
After another year that has flown by, we find ourselves one Councillor short due to the unfortunate resignation from Matthew Kallaur, who resigned in June 2022 due to work commitments. We are still on the hunt for another person from Austerfield to take up this position.
One of the issues that is constantly on the agenda is speeding, this is not unique to Austerfield and fortunately the mobile speed camera team still attend periodically. Council members still raise concerns about this matter with highways and South Yorkshire Police.
The dust issue from Bawtry Carbon is ongoing and we urge anyone who experiences issues to report them to the factory.
During the year we were asked about providing allotments, unfortunately the Council do not own any land that is suitable, but we have been looking and although to date we have drawn a blank we will continue to search for a suitable and affordable piece of land.
We are fortunate to have a Wellbeing Community Connector, Lorna Bagilhole, who works for Bawtry and Austerfield, Lorna has instigated several activities since taking on the role.
We managed to obtain funding for Christmas lights, a power supply has been installed and lighting purchased. We intend to add to the display over the years.
The annual Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch was held at The Ship Inn, Newington and was well attended, thank you to all the staff for hosting the event.
The play area is still being well used by local families and visitors for around the area.
We continue to support St Helena’s Church by arranging for the mowing of the churchyard.
It is good to see The Mayflower open once again and the Parish Council wish the new owners well.
I would like to give my thanks to my fellow Councillors for their contributions, support and time given over the last year.
Finally, thanks to our Clerk, Sarah. We appreciate was she does for the Parish Council and Austerfield.
We are looking forward to another year of working together to help keep Austerfield the safe enjoyable village in which we live.
Chairman Austerfield Parish Council
Lesley Cox
