AFTER a number of chances to discuss projects for the next financial year, Holsworthy’s town councillors have agreed the new list with one stipulation — that alternative funding for one project is considered.

On behalf of the town clerk, Vanessa Saunders, assistant to the town clerk Kerry Wilcox reminded councillors the list of projects had been forwarded on four separate occasions.

She confirmed two projects from the previous years had not made it back on to the list; the toilets in Stanhope park and tablets for councillors. There had been drainage issues regarding the toilets and there had been a lack of interest from councillors for the use of tablets so the decision to not pursue these projects was taken.

Cllr Richard Brown thought this was a sensible measure, adding: “Vanessa did say there were too many projects.”

Mrs Wilcox said: “Each project needs a councillor. I am due to have eight weeks off soon for an operation which will leave Vanessa on her own so if people can stick to their projects that would be really helpful.”

Cllr Nigel Keneally said he was keen to get on: “If we approved this tonight can I start my project straight away?”

Mrs Wilcox confirmed this. Cllr Kenneally added: “Right then, well I propose it — lets get on.”

Cllr Toby Johns, who has in the past expressed great enthusiasm to begin his project for a plastic collecting cow, said: “I agree. Come on, I want my cow!”

Councillors did query the high portion of funding — £5,000 — being allocated to Cllr Jon Hutchings’ hospital project. Cllr Brown quipped: “So we are paying them [the CCG] for telling us the beds are closed.”

Cllr John Allen, a member of the Hospital League of Friends, offered an alternative to reduce the cost to the council. He said: “The League of Friends have money they could use to support this — I’m assuming it’s for hall hire and the like?”

He added: “Could we leave this as negotiable but propose and second the projects list as is?”

Mrs Wilcox agreed and asked for a proposer and seconder, with the proviso that the funding from the League of Friends be looked into.