THE opportunity has arisen for Holsworthy Town Council to adopt the telephone kiosk outside the library, but due to its unexpected high use it has been agreed that this offer be turned down.

During the full meeting on Wednesday, February 5, councillors were asked their thoughts on the potential for adopting the BT telephone kiosk and turning it into a community resource. Among suggestions for what these kiosks could potentially be turned into are a mini library, a flower/plant selling space or as a housing site for a community defibrillator.

The council would have to pay a £1 purchase fee to adopt the kiosk in ‘as seen’ condition.

However, town clerk Vanessa Saunders said: “We looked at a flower or art project. If we adopt it for £1 they will pay for and upkeep the electric supply but we have to look after it other than that.

“Torridge District has to give confirmation it is not needed, but we have found out that 206 calls were made from the kiosk over the past 12 months.”

Many councillors were surprised by this figure, but Cllr Toby Johns said: “No, I’m not surprised. Once in ten times people get off the bus and their phone has run out of charge or they have left it on the bus and they use that phonebox.”

Vandalism was mentioned by Cllr Richard Brown, who said: “We used to get people coming in to the library because it had been vandalised.”

Deputy mayor Cllr Helen Parker said: “Will it be respected more if it looked nicer?”

Mrs Saunders did warn that the council would be liable for any repairs needed if they were to take on the kiosk.

Cllr Nigel Keneally asked: “So they won’t supply paint then? But they will tell us what colour to use?”

Mrs Saunders said yes.

Cllr Johns recommended they keep it as a telephone box since it was so well used. The councillors agreed.

Cllr Jon Hutchings suggested the council look into ‘refurbishing’ the kiosk adding: “What about making it safe?”

Cllr Hutchings added: “If we replaced the windows we would be liable if someone broke it and hurt themselves.

“I suggest we go back through Torridge with their enforcement officer and say it is in a conservation area.”

Mrs Saunders said she would contact the district council, adding: “I will look at it and see if we can make it look better without doing too much.”