THE enhancement of Tavistock?s Bedford Square went under the spotlight at a meeting in the town last week. Some members of the public at a recent consultation day told the town council the square was ?not a nice place? and needed enhancing with shrubs, trees or water features. Councillors at last week?s meeting of the town?s properties committee heard although the council was responsible for the management of the square, it was actually the property of Devon County Council and permission would be required for any changes. Additionally, any landscaping features needed to be moveable, as the square was used for the farmers? market every two weeks and for numerous other events throughout the year, such as Goose Fair and carnival day. Members said with the flower market being held on Fridays on the square, and market traders using the Victorian barrows from the pannier market in the area, the square was already looking much more attractive. Cllr Mandy Govier said: ?There are more of the barrows going outside now and I think they are getting quite a few takings for them now.? Town mayor Cllr Jenny Metcalf agreed that the Victorian barrows on the square looked ?very attractive? and that activities like the farmers? market on Bedford Square provided good business for traders and a focus for the community. Cllr Ted Sherrell said: ?We all remember the battles over the square, but the whole purpose of doing it was to create this open space with no cars. ?More and more events are taking place there now, we want to see the place used. I can?t see the purpose to be gained by putting water features on there, it would just stop it being used for the original intention.? Cllr Brian Trew said: ?I think since it?s not ours to put anything on, why on earth should we?? The committee agreed to note the comments arising from the consultation day and for the moment monitor the situation while maintaining the status quo regarding the square.
