Now for the facts . . .

THROUGH The Crow we should like to respond to recent correspondence and articles where various individuals seem to have misunderstood the real facts. WASTE COLLECTIONS The reason for the introduction of alternative weekly collections is that this

THROUGH The Crow we should like to respond to recent correspondence and articles where various individuals seem to have misunderstood the real facts.

WASTE COLLECTIONS

The reason for the introduction of alternative weekly collections is that this new service will save Council Tax payers facing heavily increased costs if we do not meet the ever more demanding recycling targets set by central Government.

The comment that waste collections "had not been outlined in a presentation from North Herts District Council" is completely incorrect.

All parish and town councillors were invited to a presentation at the district council, and those who attended were told that officers were willing to attend any parish or town council meeting.

Regarding plastic recycling bins, all parish and town councillors, who attended the presentation evening, were given the opportunity to suggest favoured location options and ALL district councillors have been asked to suggest any suitable sites.

PUBLIC CONVENIENCES

Negotiations are currently taking place between the district council and an interested party, with regard to keeping the bus station facility open.

Royston councillors have fully supported the action and are hoping for a favourable conclusion.

The public conveniences at Fish Hill are being completely rebuilt, and renovated at The Cross, over the next few months.

BUSES

The Royston and District area committee has passed a resolution stating that Herts County Council should ensure Royston does not lose a service.

Local county councillors are also fighting to retain the service.

TOWN CENTRE/PARKING

Local councillors were fully aware of the implications of increased car parking charges and fought against these at every level.

The Royston and District area committee has ensured that a refund scheme is implemented, supported by local businesses.

Local councillors believe the charges to be unrealistic, bearing in mind that less tickets have been sold since the increases.

Due to the fact that comments were considered to be "anecdotal" we have forced the council to carry out a town centre retail vitality assessment which is currently being undertaken.

Short-term parking will be increased following pressure from local councillors.

It should also be remembered that local councillors have no jurisdiction over the amount of rates charged for business and retail premises, as this is purely a directive from Government.

We hope this clarifies the situation, but you can contact any district councillor or attend one of our local surgeries.

Cllr PETER BURT

Cllr FIONA HILL

Cllr TONY HUNTER

Cllr F JOHN SMITH

Cllr HOWARD MARSHALL

North Herts District Council