We have received planning approval for the initial work to
be undertaken on the Peterborough Arms. This includes a new entrance from the
car park into the end of the skittle alley wide enough for wheelchairs and the
provision of a toilet for the disabled. These two items will make the pub DDA
compliant, a legal necessity before opening any part of the pub. Permission
also includes a new window in the skittle alley area to bring in more natural
light and an enlarged car park. Skittles’ fans can be reassured that the new
door and window will not affect the alley!
Now we have to raise the funds to carry out the work. We
were grateful to have received two donations recently- one from IWA Avon and
Wilts Branch, one from IWA central as the Wilts & Berks share of the 2014 Grand
Draw monies and a cheque from the auctioneers – proceeds of the sale of the
bric-a-brac that had been left in the pub when we purchased it. A bid for some funds
has been submitted to Malmesbury Area Board (yes we are just in their area) to be
decided on 4th March and we have also asked Dauntsey Parish Council
for a contribution. I am looking around for some other grants to apply
for. We have also put out a call for
volunteers who are skilled trades people to help with the plumbing, carpentry, and
tiling of the disabled toilet.
On Tuesday night Paul Lenaerts and I attended the Waterways
Working Group in Melksham to talk through the plans for Melksham.
Representatives from Semington Parish Council were included as they had
previously not been able to attend local talks about the plans. There was good
support for our plans and a desire to get started soon!
On Wednesday evening the Trust Finance and Admin committee
met at Wichelstowe, courtesy of Waitrose, for their monthly meeting. As usual
it was well attended with a lot on the Agenda. Among the items discussed was
Studley Grange, the new landing stage at Wichelstowe, Peterborough Arms, an IT
review, maintenance policy, ideas to promote membership and above all having
the finances to do it all!
Before I “put down my pen” I must say that I am disappointed
not to have received any enquiries about the vacancy for a project leader for
the Studley Grange Wildlife Trail that was advertised in Dragonfly. There is
some funding available for this part time opportunity – I am looking for
someone who can work with volunteer groups, schools and the local community
with an interest in wildlife and ecology to promote this very special site.
Kath Hatton
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