Paulton residents were outraged when they were informed at a recent public meeting, organised by the Parish Council, that the cost of removing the very unpopular build-out was to be paid from Section 106 funds.

District Councillors, John Bull and Liz Hardman, have made representations and had meetings with Senior Officers in B&NES in an attempt to resolve the matter and Paulton Parish Council wrote a strong letter to Jo Farrar, Chief Executive of B&NES, explaining the unfairness of the decision by B&NES Officers to make Paulton residents pay for removing a B&NES mistake.

The Chair of Paulton Parish Council, Les Wild, said, "I am very pleased to advise residents that I have now received a letter from Louise Fradd, Place Strategic Director for B&NES, confirming that the original decision has now been reversed. I am very glad that B&NES did finally listen to us and make the correct decision." In her letter, Ms Fradd said: 'I am aware that a further safety audit has recommended the removal of the build-out opposite the hospital. Alternative options to the current build-out were tabled at the public meeting, as agreed with ward members and Parish Council representatives. The public meeting concurred with the Officer's recommendation that the build-out is removed. I can confirm that the removal of the build-out on this occasion will be funded from other funding sources and not the Section 106 contributions, as a further redesign at this location has been required.'

Online 'Paulton Barmy Army' campaigner against the build-out, Paul Bailes, says he is chasing the removal of the structure. The Independent B&NES candidate in the forthcoming election will be holding a surgery this Saturday at Purnell Cricket Club at 10.30 a.m.