Signs of bureaucracy

21/08/2009 by Steve Barclay.

Should it really be so difficult to get a sign?  I have posted previously on the frustration of tourist attractions like Elgoods Brewery in Wisbech trying to obtain a sign to direct visitors.  Another example came to light today on a visit to Dogsthorpe Star Pit near Peterborough which is a site of special scientific interest in disused clay pits beside the A47.  I met up with Brian Eversham, the Conservation Director and Chief Executive Designative of the Wildlife Trust for Beds, Cambs and Northants, who took me on a tour of the site and provided a fascinating insight into the unique wildlife there.  It is a wonderful place, yet we saw just one family in the whole time we were at the site.  As you will see from the photos, a road sign is allowed outside this site but there is no sign to tell local families that this place is open to them to visit.  We need to address this sort of frustrating bureaucracy as it would be great if more people enjoyed it.

A visit also today to Young People Littleport which is a great centre catering for all ages, from youngsters playing on the trampoline dug into the garden to a 98 year old I chatted to who attends to play bingo.  A warm and welcoming place, Phil Malkin who runs the centre explained their exciting plans for the future, including showing me the building work upstairs where they aim to put a music studio.  This will be great in helping cater to the 13 to 17 year old age group as I am trying to promote better facilities for them.

Littleport was also hit by a significant fire today at the tyre recycling plant off the A10 Wisbech road.  It could be seen for miles, and was even more dramatic at close quarters.

A road sign is allowed but not a sign to tell
visitors that, on the right, is a site of special scientific
interest open to the public to enjoy free of charge.

Learning from wildlife expert Brian Eversham
of The Wildlife Trust.

A view of the special scientific site at Dogsthorpe
Star Pit (disused clay pits) beside the A47
- for those able to find it.

10 fire crews were called to the blaze which
involved 200 tonnes of tyres.

Posted in Littleport, Wisbech | No Comments »