A very practical message this time. As I see it, my main job as your councillor is to look after your interests, sort out problems and make sure that council officers are aware of your concerns. I know some of you like to speak directly to council officers but it always helps to have support from a member of the council which employs them and if I'm not the right person I can always refer you to one who is.

As you know. I don't have monthly surgeries anymore as no-one wants to wait that long to have something sorted out. So, just write to me (c/o Members' Room, Civic Centre as I may be moving) or phone me on 8947 7802 or email me at joyce.paton@merton.gov.uk. If you write to me please also include your telephone number, so that I can give you a quick update if necessary. If you telephone please follow up with a letter just to make sure I have all the information and haven't missed anything in my notes.

Lastly, you can always buttonhole me in the street. I do like to be in touch. Compliments as well as complaints accepted!

Happy Easter.

Joyce.

Planning

Plans are being considered for a Day Nursery at units 6 & 7, 206 Durnsford Road. This is on the small industrial estate next to the Woodman pub. This would comprise a 2 storey building to accommodate up to 64 children with pedestrian access from The Crescent. Concerns about traffic congestion in The Crescent have been expressed. The application was considered by the Council on 21st March and turned down

An advertising hoarding which appeared suddenly on the wall above the old Barclays Bank on the corner of The Crescent & Arthur Road has finally been removed. According to a Council Spokesman this happens fairly regularly throughout the borough.