Council Report - 2 September 2006

Like the June meeting, the September Council meeting was a four hour marathon, though on this occasion the Minutes Secretary enjoyed the reward of a journey home on the empty stock of a private charter train which just happened to arrive at Wharf at the right time!

Reference was made in the Managing Directors report to the rather depressing season with public bookings down by 5.4% although the fare increase meant expected traffic revenue was 3.9% up, possibly due in part to the deteriorating general economic climate and increases in the cost of fuel. Concern was expressed about a decline in shop sales at Abergynolwyn, although both shop sales overall and catering turnover had increased. Perhaps not surprisingly, later in the meeting Council agreed an increase in the annual Marketing Budget from £25K to £30K. Timetable distribution was identified as a problem - a problem not exclusive to the TR if the lack of other attractions leaflets at Wharf this year is anything to go by - and there were suggestions that we needed to motivate members to distribute timetables to back up the paid distribution services which we used. Whilst on marketing, the 2007 timetable leaflet will arrive a little later this year, the target for publication being the end of October or early November. A new guidebook has been on sale this year in a larger A4 format - whilst this new format has been well received, there has been some concern expressed about aspects of the book, particularly proof-reading. Council agreed that the current edition should remain on sale until stocks were exhausted.

Council agreed the outline specification for the new General Manager post and a revised advertisement should have gone out with the September News. This will be a vital appointment and those concerned with the appointment are well seized of the need to appoint the right person.

On other topics:

a grant had been awarded for a new car park sign at Wharf which should be installed by the time you read this, whilst we may also be in line for a grant for a slide at the Abergynolwyn playground;
a report has been commissioned on the condition of School (Ffordd Cadfan) bridge - the bridge shortly before arriving at Pendre from Wharf - although it is believed that the highway authority has been responsible for its maintenance since strengthening in 1954;
Council agreed to renew the registration of the internet domain name TRPS.org.UK - although not currently in use it might be required in the future;
Council also agreed a list of winter workshop priorities with the addition to the medium priority list of trials with a new carriage heating system - important if we wish to encourage business in the colder months of the year;
Concerns over the effect of the TROPS electronic booking system on volunteer availability in the Loco Department and whether we should, or indeed under new legislation be able to, continue to insist that Drivers and Guards retire at the end of the year in which they reach the age of 70, were referred to the Traffic & Operating Committee;
Council accepted with thanks Peter Austins formal retirement from the post of Wharf Project Officer now that Wharf redevelopment has been virtually completed.

Philip Sayers
21 September 2006