Council Report - 3 June 2006

Following March's record number of seven observers, the June meeting set a different record of none at all for the first time since observers were admitted. Perhaps you have found more exciting ways of spending Saturday evening after all.

Council approved the Business Strategy Plan document for publication and presentation to the AGM. We also agreed that the future management structure would include a paid General Manager, though the Strategic Planning Group was asked to review the rest of the management structure.

The collection at the AGM will be for the completion of the Wharf South Side works. These comprise claddign of the water tower in slate, the reinstatement of the slate wagon weighbridge where the green portcabin used to be, with a suitable hut, and a siding from the Engineer's Yard on the south side to the weighbridge (for hand propelled small wagons only - no locomotives or coaches!)

For those whose memories do not go back that long, the weighbridge table was located on a siding outside the original Wharf station building by the single door onto the platform, with the scales located roughly where the Shop counter is now. There was a plaque stating it was of historic interest, so the parts were kept when it was taken out as part of the 1965 Wharf rebuilding, although an earlier scheme to reinstate it near the water tower for weighing wagons of scrap was not completed.

Reinstatement, even though not in the original location, will restore an important part of the Talyllyn's heritage.

"Openness and communication" was also discussed and this should lead to several changes to promote this, including annual reports in the News of what each committee has been doing and the publication via "Talyllyn Announce" of Council agendas.

Spring Bank Holiday week was disappointing both for business on the Railway, probably due largely to bad weather before and during the holiday itself, and the Tom Rolt Rally. However, thanks to a generous offer to meet its costs, Council agreed that the 2007 Rally can go ahead. We also agreed that the Pendre fire alarm should be upgraded at a cost of £4.5K, spare parts for some of the existing equipment no longer being available.

Finally our thanks to Richard Huss who has decided for various reasons to retire as Webmaster - a replacement team is currently being sought.

Philip Sayers