An eventful time, kind of good news, bad news week.
Cumbria has “won” some funding in the lottery-like bidding system for installing electric vehicle charge points, which will be administered by Cumberland because of the delay involved in identifying suitable locations. We’re hopeful Cockermouth might get some, because it is currently a desert on that front. However, we all know that EVs aren’t the whole answer to the climate and biodiversity crisis we face - a thing I was happy to point out in an interview for BBC Look North. Less happy that my jacket with my phone and credit card in the pocket was stolen from the pavement where I put it to do the interview. So watch out, there are thieves about.
Anyway, many thanks to a very good friend whose old phone I now have, you can still contact me on 07900490503
This week I’ve also been interviewed for the World Service about the coal mine, and arranged an interview for later in the month with Sky TV about the nuclear waste dump.
In the day job, I’ve been catching up with Parish Councils and attended the Full Council meeting to approve the budget, and approve a reduction in numbers for Embleton Parish Council. For some historical reason, they should have had 13 councillors and always struggled to fill all the places, now from the election on 4th May they only need 9. Motions to increase funding for 20mph zones and road maintenance both fell but there was considerable support and we were promised a review of road safety issues – something I will be working hard to hold the Executive to. 20mph zones have already been an issue raised in three of my parishes.
We also had a brilliant social event with visiting speaker Jack Lenox who longer-standing members will remember as an active member of our group living in Keswick and being our parliamentary candidate in Copeland twice. He is now a councillor in Lancaster and our national spokesperson on culture, sport, and digital inclusion, and spoke to us about what that work entailed. We also enjoyed a “bring and share” buffet, and a light-hearted green quiz. It was great - I had a really nice time - I hope everyone else did too. Special thanks to Sharon for hosting, to Alistair for providing the wine prizes and to Jack for travelling all the way from Lancaster. Good to see Tom from Carlisle, the members we haven't seen before and the old friends too. Thanks for all the lovely food.
Cllr. Jill Perry
