Civic Association Spring 2015 Newsletter

Arrangements are in hand for the 2015 Midsummer Festival. We shall be hoping that the weather will be kind to us again so that we can enjoy the whole weekend. On Friday evening 19th June the Joshua Reynolds Choir will perform in the Church. The Lamb Feast on the Castle Green is on Saturday 20th June, which is the highlight of the year. Sunday 21st June is the Hidden Gardens event and we do very much hope that if you have been so kind as to open your garden previously, you will do so again this year. If you have not done so before, why not have a go!

The Big Lunch on Castle Green on the 7h June invites all residents to enjoy an informal get together. Bring a picnic and a chair. The BBQ will be fired up for your use. This has proved a very pleasant social occasion – do come and relax….

At the heart of our Conservation Area is Plympton Castle. It is a much cherished Heritage Site and has been sadly neglected in recent years. The Civic Association has long pressed for a programme of works and we are delighted that with English Heritage and Plymouth City Council we have succeeded in restoring the Motte on which the castle stands. An archaeological survey in photographic form will make it possible to monitor change and replace any stones with the appropriate mortar. The removal of trees, mostly sycamore, which had overgrown the Motte allows us to see once again our Castle dominating the medieval borough.

We continue to work to make our much valued green spaces a pleasure for all to enjoy. Working parties have spread chippings and planted bulbs. The Tavistock Taskforce, Closereach residents and our regular supporters give invaluable help. Andy Cooper has repaired the gate in Barbican Road and has brought the necessary expertise to create the storage for our equipment. We owe much thanks to so many who help in practical ways and we are so fortunate that people are prepared to give their time to the benefit of the community.

Many attended the public meeting in the Guildhall to consider the proposal by developers to build in George Lane. We will continue to promote the views of residents in this matter as we do in our dialogue with South Hams, the City and the developers for the Sherford new town.

The Civic Association tries to reflect the views of all who live in St. Maurice and we welcome suggestions and help. Please contact Freddie Mills – Tel: 335306, Janet Skinner – Tel: 337512 or any other members of the committee.