February 2012 - Crewkerne Town

explained the use of radio communication on trains for reporting incidents and
operating eventualities. John Dirring observed that the centralization of signalling is a
long-term process, made possible by technology, which has been going on for decades
across the British railway network.
It was felt that there will be a larger role for groups like us in spotting and reporting
untoward happenings in and around the railway environment.
Access to disused platform
Mike Franklin (Network Rail) has advised that our access was agreed in principle by
Network Rail within six weeks of the request; but that the problem is in providing
access to the required standard, the cost of which exceeds his budget.
There was a general discussion about the condition of the vegetation on the banks and
disused platform, as well as the residual litter which becomes visible at this time of
the year, and the condition of the fencing. Robin Heyd-Smith offered to contact the
local Mobile Operations Manager (based at Yeovil Junction).
It was resolved that a formal written complaint should be made by the secretary Gail
Coleshill.
Henryk Ploszek suggested a copy to South West Trains.
Secretary’s report
This was also circulated on the agenda prior to the meeting. Some matters arising
were discussed under the headings which follow.
Taxi service
Car parking charges can encourage walking or the use of taxis or public transport but
transport methods are in need of improvement.
Free parking would merely cause overcrowding, with the missing of trains as a result.
It was suggested that an official request be made to South West Trains to lease the
coal yard as a parking area; but the problem of safe access off the main road, for both
vehicles and pedestrians, remains an issue.
Charging taxi operators for the right to await trains and potential fares is a national
issue. Geoff Clarke said that it is a commercially-related matter; there has to be
enough casual traffic to attract standing taxis. The expenses in running a taxi service
are considerable, not least insurance.
It was felt that more taxis are needed in the town; no operator is believed to have a
hackney carriage licence.
The secretary Gail Coleshill will query with South West Trains why there is no taxi
rank when there is a charge for waiting taxis.
Geoff Clarke suggested an extension of the existing Crewkerne volunteer minibus
service to cover journeys to and from the station. Robin Heyd-Smith will take this up
at their next committee meeting.
John Dirring is to make enquiries about the future of the redundant Bradfords
weighbridge office, which is a listed building and could provide a base for such
services separate from the station forecourt.
Publicity
The address of the website needs to be incorporated in our letterhead, and referred to
at every opportunity in publicity material.
Apart from the general press releases, our meetings and events are also advertised in
the listings in the Marshwood Vale Magazine and similar publications.