The Annual Council Meeting was a productive meeting, with important decisions made and updates provided on various issues that affect the local community.
Election of new Mayor and Deputy Mayor
The meeting started with the outgoing Mayor, Amanda Tame, thanking the retiring Town Clerk, Keith Cornwell, for his years of service to the Council. Cllr Mike Dawe was then elected as the new Mayor for the municipal year 2023/24, while Cllr Philippa Purchase was elected as Deputy Mayor. Mayor Cllr Dawe outlined his goals for the coming year, including driving forward ongoing projects like the Storm Tower, Skatepark, and Stratton Stores to completion.
Signing of the Armed Forces Covenant
As his first official duty as Mayor, Cllr Mike Dawe formally signed the Armed Forces Covenant. This was a significant gesture of respect and gratitude towards the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces, and the Council is proud to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to supporting this community.
Acknowledging a video by young members of the community
Council members watched and acknowledged a video made by two young members of the community who were concerned about the loss of trees in the Bude area. The Council requested that Cllr Purchase reach out to see if there were any activities that could be taken to involve the youngsters in the future.
Requests for allotments
The Town clerk reported that it is a statutory requirement for Town Councils to look at requests for allotments if requested by 10 residents. The Council has looked for land in the past and would continue to do so.
Updates from Cornwall Councillors
Cornwall Councillor Peter La Broy had some interesting updates to share with the community regarding the 128/129 bus service and the canal and harbour dredging. Councillor La Broy mentioned that he has been in talks with Cornwall Council and the bus company and is waiting for confirmation that the Stratton element of the service will be reinstated. As for the canal and harbour dredging, while it has been delayed until the end of the summer season in 2023, there is hope that treatments to the tram way at Summerleaze beach will progress within the next year. Councillor La Broy also discussed his upcoming meeting with Budehaven School, where he plans to report back on concerns raised by the local community and discuss ways to engage young people more.
Update from North Kernow Community Land Trust (NKCLT)
A member representing NKCLT spoke to say that the trust is now up and running. The Town Council has reserves marked for a community land trust received from Cornwall Council Community Infrastructure Levy funds. BSTC supports the NKLT and wants to develop an ongoing relationship following the receipt of assessments on the recent purchase of 1 Lord’s Court, Stratton. This has now been referred to the Properties Committee for further consideration.
Sustainability efforts
As part of the Council’s continued efforts to operate more sustainably, it was agreed to purchase an electric-powered mower. It was also agreed to authorise the contract to install PV (solar) Panels on the Parkhouse Centre. The Licence and operating agreement for the Parkhouse EV chargers were also approved.
