Elected Representatives Actually Answer Questions!

All Bagshot’s councillors (6 Parish, 3 Borough and 1 County) lined up to face the residents of the village at the Bagshot Society’s annual “Meet the Councillors” event on Wednesday 2nd March, refereed by the society’s chairman, Neil Lennox, our very own “Richard Dimbleby”.

The first questions concerned road safety, and was a contentious issue, with speeding, poorly placed signs and the lack of pedestrian crossing maintenance figuring highly. Whilst funds were a problem, there were too many near misses for the Council to ignore. Councillor Joan Bailey (retiring at the next election) was thanked for her unflagging contribution and leadership with Speed Watch

A wide ranging discussion about development issues then took place. Clear answers and forthright opinions were expressed. It was argued that development in itself was not necessarily bad as it could bring more life into the village.

Another hot topic was transport, with concerns expressed about the quality of service, future provision and bus passes. It was agreed that the early, late and weekend services were vital, especially for the most disadvantaged in the village.

Not surprisingly the County Council’s arbitrary removal of staff from our local library was raised. The lack of consultation and deeply flawed selection process was exposed, with all the councillors agreeing to help the villagers’ campaign to keep the library open and staffed.

There were two clear themes throughout the meeting. Firstly, that to make any change or improvement, takes a long time and persistence and that the “use it or lose it” principle applies to all services and facilities.

All in all a good meeting and thanks to all the councillors who answered the questions clearly and without “spin”. The expression “I am glad you asked that question” never passed lips.

Nick Dorrington for Bagshot Society