DURING the full Launceston Town Council meeting on Tuesday, November 20, the clerk was asked to explain the document provided to councillors with an update on the progress of Community Network Schemes.

Each Community Network Panel across Cornwall has been allocated a budget of £50,000, as part of a new Cornwall Council initiative to devolve decision making for small highways schemes. During the last panel meeting rough costings for the schemes put forward by town and parish councils were given and discussions were held over what were the most important schemes that should be made a priority.

Town clerk Christopher Drake thanked the chairman and gave councillors an update: “Following the last council meeting the decision was taken to hand in nine schemes. However, we were advised that we weren’t able to submit that many so I am just updating you to the fact we have removed those that are deemed completely unviable.

“Three have been taken out and three have been combined under ‘Dutson Road’ which has reduced the number of schemes to four.”

He explained that it was discussed by the panel which said only one could be taken forward but Cllr Paul O’Brien had argued two should be taken on.

Mr Drake said: “So, the two we have will be work on Dutson and the traffic lights at Newport.

“The two will be put forward and will be based on the budget of Cornwall Council.”

He added: “When we have heard back we will go forward and let you, the councillors, know.”

Cllr John Conway encouraged the councillors to attend the next Community Network Panel meeting where a vote would be taken: “Although each county council, town and parish council representative gets only one vote, we could revive numbers three and four on our original list. If you are interested I suggest you come along.”

The next Community Network Panel meeting will be held tonight (Thursday). All are welcome to attend.