THE biggest talking point in the village at the moment is the controversy surrounding our district councillor's written comments to the planning meeting at West Dorset District Council on February 14.

The application is for an expansion of a care home which for many years has been housed in Dick O'Th Banks Road.

It is fair to say that many of our residents were unaware of its existence until the planning application and associated furore.

The parish council had previously argued that the plans should be refused as the design of the building itself was out of keeping with the surrounding area.

They argued that the whole point of this facility was to provide a home-like environment as part of the community.

The radical design proposed was described as exciting' by the architect who came to brief councillors.

It seemed as if this would draw attention to the building and mark it out as something 'different'. There were points made about regarding traffic and car parking but these would have been relevant irrespective of the care home nature of the application.

The council had said it would make no comment on the present running of the home and added that it had never received any complaints during its previous operation.

The majority of individual objections to the application from Crossways echoed these concerns and did not make any reference to those who are cared for at the home.

Out and about in the village it is clear the majority of the villagers want nothing to do with the sentiments as expressed in Coun Read's statement.

There is anger from some quarters and disappointment that the wider public may see Crossways as a place of intolerance, prejudice and discrimination.

It is heartening to hear of the people defending those less fortunate that us but who are nevertheless part of Crossways.

Unfortunately Councillor Read has been unavailable for comment but it is to be expected that many will be interested to see if the called for apology is forthcoming.

The parish council is due to discuss the issue at its meeting this Thursday, February 28 starting with public participation at 7pm.

Also included in the statement made to planners was reference to a Village Design Statement'.

This is another item that residents will not have heard of unless they have attended parish council meetings.

Several months ago, Coun Geoffrey Northcote volunteered to lead a working party into a document which would become the blue print for future development in the village.

At the last council meeting it was admitted that the working party has only had two permanent members: Coun Northcote and district councillor Read.

Information and submissions were invited from various groups and village organisations.

When questioned by fellow councillors Coun Northcote referred to his progress but refused to supply them with a copy, claiming it was too confidential and sensitive'.

So this mysterious presentation has been used by a district councillor to object to a current planning matter even though parish councillors have no idea of the contents.

It is therefore not surprising that this matter has also been highlighted as of concern to parishioners.

It is not even clear if the concept of a Visual Design Statement has any relevance to current planning policy and guidelines.

  • On happier issues, the last Saturday in February saw two different fundraising events taking place in the village.

A car boot sale on the Tavern Car park and table tops in the Youth Centre was arranged by the young people of the village.

Guided by Kris Hallett and helped by CPSO Vickie Hedges there was a good turnout in less than brilliant weather.

The number of cars was perhaps a little disappointing but I gather selling was brisk and there was money to be made. There was an opportunity to see the results of the recent fact finding trip to the Bournemouth area to look at other facilities.

Kris was once again on hand during her weekend to advise and listen to the comments of Crossways residents. There is much positive feedback and it is good that so much trouble has been taken to allay the unfounded fears of some.

It is true to say that not everyone will be happy to see this project progressing so well and even those who are trying whatever means at their disposal to stop it. The hope is still that reasoned and rational debate and argument will see a fantastic facility for the young people of the village at a minimum of inconvenience to other residents.

Of course there is also the small matter of paying for it! But I gather that the funds raised on Saturday will be put with other money being sourced at the moment.

Many villagers called in at the car boot en route to the other event which was a coffee morning at the Rectory in aid of the new church fund.

The Rector having opened her home was not disappointed with the response. There were cakes and tasty treats in the lobby, refreshments in the kitchen, a raffle and plenty of chatting going on in the front room and a bric-a-brac stall in the dining room.

A lovely atmosphere and Rev Birdseye was delighted to say that £260 had been raised.

There was also a fundraising concert that evening at Moreton Church to add even more to the coffers.

One of the ways funds are being raised is using the talents of local people. The craft group meets at 15 Spitfire Close. New members welcome at any time - come and share your crafty' habits, and make money for the new church!

Please contact Ann Hunt on 01305 853553 for further details.

  • Spaces are still available for the Scout Group annual quiz night on Friday, March 7 starting at 7pm.

It is open to teams of four from Crossways and outside the village too. More details and entry form available from me.

This is usually a very enjoyable evening's entertainment away from the telly and entry fee of £4 each includes a delicious ploughman's supper.

To this you add your own beverages from your cellar or kitchen!