3rd February 2012

CREWKERNE: Future of civic society in doubt

By Alex Alexander

A GROUP that champions the quality of life in Crewkerne is in urgent need of reviving, so it can play an active part in the Government’s “Big Society”.

The Crewkerne Civic Society is about to turn 40 but is beginning to run out of puff, according to Chairman Martin Pakes.

In a bid to breathe new life into the group, retired town planner Mr Pakes has called a public meeting to debate the way ahead and stave-off a looming “crisis”.

He said: “The society is facing one of its most challenging years in its history. It is facing a real crisis if cannot find members to take on the various roles of the committee.

“The society has had its highs and lows, but it has always managed to survive. We may not be so lucky next year.

“Whether we agree with the ‘Big Society’ or not, the Crewkerne Civic Society inevitably will be drawn into more and more planning and development issues. So it is important that the society is strong and able to play its part. We feel it is an appropriate time to have an open discussion within the town on the society’s future role and direction.

“We are asking whether Crewkerne needs a civic society and, if so, how it needs to change so we can maintain it as a sustainable organisation.

“This is an important question not just for our members but also for the town as a whole.”

Future options for the society will the subject of public debate at an “Open Forum” meeting next week.

The society, which has about 200 members, was founded in 1973 with the aim of working with the local authority and other groups to conserve and enhance the town. It has helped protect several important buildings from demolition and supported new developments that have improved the local economy and environment.

The society, which is a registered charity, also has an important role in raising awareness of the history and architectural heritage of the town.

It was instrumental in getting the town centre designated as a conservation area.

It has published town trails, town guides and walks packs. And in the millennium year it installed 18 blue plaques on buildings of local significance.

Civic society members also had the vision to set up the town’s Museum and Heritage Centre.

• The Open Forum meeting takes place in the Henhayes Centre at 7.30pm on Wednesday next week (February 8th). Everyone is welcome.

PICTURE: GLORIOUS PAST - But civic society Chairman Martin Pakes is worried about the group’s future