I took a short break in September but the work of the council never stops! I mentioned last month that we had managed to appoint a new Assistant Clerk, Kelly Thomas. By way of introduction, Kelly has written a short piece about herself printed below. I am sure we will provide Kelly with new challenges allowing her to expand her experience in the world of local government.
Melton is embarking on the refresh of its Neighbourhood Plan and another article on page {insert ref} tells you all about this and how you can get involved. I would strongly encourage you, your friends and family to complete the survey to help steer this vital work for our village’s future.
Another survey is under way that affects Melton. Suffolk County Council (SCC) are asking the public to complete a short survey on the proposals to make improvements to the A12. The scheme proposes to introduce new dual carriageway sections; upgrade key roundabouts between the A14 and Woods Lane; improve public transport including a new bus-link; introducing a mobility hub at Martlesham and improving the infrastructure for walking and cycling.
I would encourage you to look at the proposals and have your say. There is a useful video on SCCs website which gives a graphic view of the changes to be made and might be easier for those of you who prefer not to read lots of information. You can find the details at https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/consultations-petitions-and-elections/consultations/a12-major-road-nework-improvements . You can find the link on the SCC website by searching for ‘A12 improvements’ if that’s easier. Those not on-line, should phone SCC and ask them to send the details via post. The phone number is 0345 606 6067.
Last month, I asked you to let me know about how you use the buses to evidence our submission to extend the services. I have had two suggestions so far. We could do with a lot more. If you are someone who would use the bus service more if it was more regular or broader, please get in touch by either emailing me at cllr.gradwell@melton-suffolk-pc.gov.uk or writing to the office at 17 Riduna Park, Station Road, Melton IP12 1QT.
I was very pleased to hear Melton Primary School has just received the Platinum Award for their provision of activities at play time. Emma Mann, Assistant Headteacher and Curricular Lead for play at the school explains ‘Having followed the OPAL programme (Outdoor Play and Learning) for the past 18 months, the school has worked to develop the opportunities for play at break and lunchtime. Children now have access to a wide variety of activities, including a mud café, water and sand play, Lego, hammocks, small world play, trikes, slack lines, digging area, gymnastics and tyres, alongside the more traditional ball games and fixed play equipment. One of the most popular additions has been the loose parts area, where children use everyday items such as pallets and road barriers to build and create.
An important aspect of the programme is supporting the children to dynamically risk assess as they play. As children in UK primary schools spend 20% of their day out at play, the school felt it was essential to ensure that their play provision was high quality.’
Achieving the OPAL Platinum Award puts the school in the top 1% of the country for their play provision. Congratulations to everyone in the school community for this outstanding achievement.
We have been notified that “Plug In Suffolk Car Clubs “will be introducing the use of electric vehicles on a short-term basis from next summer. This trial of electric community vehicles is set to be launched in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket, Sudbury, Needham Market, Stowmarket, Lowestoft and Woodbridge. Suffolk residents will be able to book the use of an E car by the minute, hour or day. If you are interested in this scheme, you can sign up for more informant at Plug In Suffolk Car Clubs Mailing List available on line. www.suffolk.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/transport-planning/plug-in-suffolk.
And finally, it’s been a while since I posted a profile introducing our Councillors and I want to continue to do this so you know who we are. Cllr Barbara DeVita, who lives around St Andrews, introduces herself as follows ‘I moved to Melton in May 2021 and joined MPC in January 2024. My background is in education – I was a language teacher but I am now retired. As well as serving on Melton Parish Council, I am also Treasurer and a volunteer for FOWL – the Friends of Woodbridge Library Group.’
A message from Kelly ‘I am excited to be involved with Melton Parish Council as Assistant Clerk. I am also Clerk for Sutton Heath and after moving from Ipswich to the area 6 years ago, I have fallen in love with the beautiful spaces and the community spirit of the residents here. I’m looking forward to supporting our clerk Judi and Melton Parish Councillors to continue the great work they do.’
