All members of the Residents association will be getting the hard copy of the magazine through their doors in the upcoming days… but here’s the online version if you can’t wait!
Click the link below to download!
Branksome Park And Canford Cliffs Residents Association Magazine 2011 Spring Edition
MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING
HELD ON WEDNESDAY 13th APRIL 2011 AT 7.30PM
IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE
PRESENT:Parajumpers Sverige
1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllrs Mrs Carole Deas & Neil Sorton – Cllr Mrs May Haines would be arriving later . Also, David Baker (Liberal Democrat), Susanna Carvell & Ian Walker, standing as Independent candidates at next month’s Local Election.
Apologies: Apologies received from Keith Alcroft, Chris Stracey, Roy Pointer, Anthony Vickery, Rose Rogers Most Popular Prom Dresses and Ken Sanson, Chairman, Sandbanks Association. Also from the following prospective candidates at next month’s Local Election.
Avril King (UK Independence Party) – Ms King only read her invitation when she arrived home today but unable to attend as she has another residents’ meeting this evening.
Peter Pawlowski (Conservative Party) – Mr Pawlowski sent his apologies as he has a prior engagement, which is a long-standing commitment on his part and he is unable to rearrange it.
Accuracy: Parajumpers Jacka Herr JS said that he would sign the Mother of the Bride Dresses Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 09 MARCH 2011.
2. MATTERS ARISING
Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) developmen t – No new developments
2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane (Erect an 80-bed care home) – JS reported that the Council faced a formidable team at last week’s four day Public Inquiry, including a Barrister, Christopher Young of No 5 Chambers, who called five witnesses to give evidence. Mentnor must have spent an absolute fortune on this appeal. At the Inquiry, the Inspector was informed that the appellants only submitted
their evidence to the Council on the Friday before the Inquiry started but she decided that the evidence should stand and that there would be no adjournment for the Council to consider it. This inevitably placed the Council in a difficult position and did not have available someone from Adult Social Services who was able to give evidence. This is ‘bad form’ from the appellant’s side but something that was out of the Council’s control.
3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – No new developments
4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto
5. Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto
6. Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 440 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – ditto.
Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
JS reported that he and his wife had attended the Hearing at Poole Magistrates Court on23/03/11 regarding the damage to four Corsican pines at 147 Banks Road. This case has been adjourned until next Wednesday (20/04/11) when certain other high profile tree cases are due to be heard at the same time. JS encouraged other members to show to the Magistrates that residents fully support Poole’s Planning Enforcement Team in pursuing prosecutions of offenders for the unauthorised felling of trees etc
Victoria Education Centre (St Aldhelms Road entrance) – The school has carried out some suitable planting but nothing else yet
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – This property has been sold ‘subject to contract’. The Local Planning Authority has a charge on the property and the Enforcement Officer has asked that the prospective purchaser be advised of the charge and the legal requirement to plant a replacement tree to a specification detailed in the tree replacement notice
17 Over Links Drive (Application to demolish existing and erect 2 detached houses granted on 31/01/08 but number of conditions should have been complied with before this development commenced) The two new buildings design and scale, including height, accord with the approved drawings, although some additional high level sky lights have been added to both and a window in the dormer features added, also at high level. The Enforcement Officer is inviting a minor amendment application for these additional windows Current planning enforcement issues
1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) – revised retrospective application registered on 19/02/11.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) – No new developments.
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto
Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) – No new developments.
Community Working Group (CWG):
Wayne Hancock is the Association’s representative and will be attending the next Community Working Group meeting on Wednesday 4th May. JS invited members to contact WH, if they had any issues that they would like him to take up.
Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report:
WM reported that the yearend projected underspend was £523,000 and up to 28th February 2011, 85.7% of the budget had been spent. The pressures are still there for future years and there are still quite a few matters outstanding, which have been outstanding for some months.
Poole Partnership – JS reported that at the Cabinet meeting on 16/03/11, Members approved the following allocations from the residual Poole Partnership resources:
(a) £52,800 towards the setting up of a Poole Communities Fund by the Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Community Foundation;
(b) £15,000 to set up a separate fund hosted by the Council to support the voluntary and community sector during 2011/12. It is proposed that this be administered through the Council’s Grant Panel process on the advice of officers from Poole Council for Voluntary Service and the Council.
Public Rights of Way:
Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto
Footpath 82 Spur – At its Extraordinary General Meeting on 26/03/11, the The Royal Motor Yacht Club members voted overwhelmingly in favour of purchasing the Sandbanks Boatyard and Marina Company for a price up to £1.5m. There is some commercially sensitive ground still to cover before the purchase can be completed, and the representatives of the RMYC will be trying to sort out a number of issues that the SBMC Ltd has with its neighbours.
Possible Charitable Status for Assn:
JS said that Paul Fearnley, the Association’s Hon Treasurer, has recently written to him to say that the registering of the Association as a Charity has been on the rolling agenda for some time. The main advantage in doing so is that we could reclaim the basic rate income tax paid by the donor on all our subscription income. This would increase our revenue significantly. If the Association did this, it would have to have a declaration from each member willing to Gift-Aid the subscriptions. If, as is planned, the Association will be asking members to fill out a new application form and post it to us in the Autumn, it would be very sensible to cover this aspect at the same time. Tony Clayton has offered to help with the Sub-Committee, when this is set up.
Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden):
WH reported that he had now received the signed and sealed licence from the Borough of Poole. Simon Legg has just returned from holiday and WH will arrange a meeting at the sunken gardens, to discuss responsibilities etc. Then, with the assistance of the Victoria Education Centre, the Association can begin the clearance of the eastern rockery. JS pointed out that this effort is a ‘feather in our cap’ as we are the first Resident’s Assn. to
take on a project involving council land – the sunken garden in Pinecliff Gardens which, at the moment, does not looks particularly attractive. CD interposed at this point and stated that she and WH had been working hard on this with the help of the Victoria Education Centre. Simon. Legg has agreed to try to get some press coverage for this. CD also said that she has been speaking with the officer at the Council dealing with the
Canford Cliffs Play Area and he said that extra money will be available for exercise equipment for adults. She ended by thanking WH for working so hard on this and Daphne Howell, who first mooted the idea.
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.
Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme:
JS said that he had advised MH that he was disappointed that the entry for the Efficiency Review Programme Monitoring report in the Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee Forward Plan simply says ”TBA’.
Localism and Decentralisation Bill: The first 17 communities to test neighbourhood planning, a key feature of the Localism Bill, have been named and includes Cerne Abbas.
Hedge at Kenilworth Court –
JS reported that the hedge had been cut back but looked rather unsightly because the hedge on Haven Road now consisted of dead branches.
3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
In the absence of Keith Alcroft, JS reported…
Land at 8 Buccleuch Road (Creation of 1 No. new dwelling with 2 No. off road parking spaces) – Application granted by Planning Committee on 17/03/11, subject to conditions.
7 Ventry Close (Erection of 1no. dwelling and rationalisation of garage accommodation to no 7 Ventry Close) – Application granted by Planning Committee on 17/03/11, subject to Upfront Payment’.
Rear of 16 Haven Road (Demolish existing extension and erect 1 No 2 bed house with associated parking) – Application registered on 16/03/11
47A Lindsay Road (Erection of a Class C2 care home for the elderly with associated car parking) – Application registered on 31/03/11
Other current planning issues
63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Interested party comments were required by 14/03/11.
8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.
60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.
4. REPORT RE CANFORD CLIFFS & PENN HILL AREA COMMITTEE MEETING –
JS reported that the topics discussed at the meeting included…
· Transportation budget 2011/12
· Planning Obligations (Recreational contributions) update
· Local Development Framework Public Consultations (A few copies of the two
Development Plan Documents were available at the meeting.
A lively discussion also took place about possible increases in admission numbers at Courthill School from September 2013.
5. ACCOUNTS TO DATE –
JS reported that the total funds as at 31st March amounted to £34,684.16
6. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
BPCCRA AGM on 14/05/11 in Canford Cliffs Village Hall – John Gunton said that he hopes to distribute the Spring Magazine at the beginning of next week. JS has invited Liz Wilkinson, Poole’s Chief Finance Officer, to be the Guest Speaker at the Association’s AGM and is currently awaiting confirmation that she will attend.
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) –
Carol Parkin reported that a retrospective Planning Application had been lodged on 24/03/11.
This has been lodged as the house has not been built according to the plans which were
passed and the conditions were not fulfilled.
Presentations by the prospective candidates standing in Canford Cliffs Ward – JS said that each candidates would be allowed to speak for two minutes in order to outline their hopes/aims and that there would be no follow-up questions, although would be an opportunity for members to meet candidates at the end of the meeting, Each candidate was introduced in alphabetical order.
David Baker – Liberal Democrat.
David began saying that he joined the Liberal Democrats as he thought they offered the fairest view towards people and people are what he is interested in. He is a member of BPCCRA and Chairman of one of the blocks of flats in the ward. He has served as a Councillor on Essex County Council for four years, prior to moving here. He is concerned that Poole Council are cutting services to both young and old, and wishes to ensure that residents’ money is spent wisely.
Susanna Carvell – Independent
After introducing herself, Susanna went on to say that just over one year ago she attended a Planning committee meeting. The application was refused by a margin of one vote, due to Carole Deas’ presentation, her hard work and commitment. She now supports Carole and that is why she is standing as an Independent candidate. She cares about people and seeks to change the climate at the Town Hall.
Carole Deas – Independent
Carole said that, although she is a Conservative, she is standing as an Independent candidate and has represented the Ward for the last eight years. She is particularly keen on Planning, especially in the Ward as she believes this is one of the nicest areas in Poole. She believes that the Planning Department have let down the residents of this Ward, and we have seen many applications which should never have happened. Precedents have been set and she has been fighting very hard to stop this from happening in the future. She would like change now and appeals for votes for the Independent candidates and promises that they will not let
us down.
May Haines – Conservative
May began by thanking the Chairman and members for giving her the opportunity to address the meeting. Since being elected in 2007 she has worked very closely with this Association and others dealing with local authority matters. A survey sent out last year to residents showed that the top issues concerning people were litter, dog fouling, speeding, congestion
and parking. Planning remains a major issue and she works with the Associations to resist any inappropriate planning. She pointed out that she has experience of this. She seeks to retain weekly black bin collections, as bi-weekly collections or less which some areas have are not popular. To sum up she said that she, Neil Sorton and Peter Pawowski are the Conservative team for this Ward and she would like the support of the residents.
Neil Sorton – Conservative
Neil introduced himself saying that he had been a Canford Cliffs Ward Councillor since 1999. Over the years he has acquired a deep knowledge of the problems and aspirations of the Ward. Last year he took over responsibility for Housing and Leisure, which includes open spaces and beaches and being a Ward Councillor he takes a special interest in this. He went on to say that his first priority is to keep down the level of Council Tax. Along with Councillor Haines he has an excellent record for attending Council meetings, Residents’ meetings and other groups such as Neighbourhood Watch. He has a large case load, much of which relates to Planning which he knows is of great interest and concern to residents. He points out that ultimately Poole’s planners are not masters in their own house as planning refusal by the council can be overturned by government appointed Planning Inspectors. He ended by saying that he and his fellow Conservative Ward Councillors will continue to endeavour to solve the problems in the Ward such as speeding, traffic congestion and anti-social behaviour, while seeking to protect front-line services, and he asks for support for himself, May Haines and Peter Palowski.
Ian Walker – Independent
Ian began by saying that he was very pleased to be able to address the meeting directly and to tell us the reason he is standing as an Independent candidate. As a resident for many years, he has become increasingly concerned about the grotesque over-development of our area. He accepts that this is a very beautiful place to live and that there is a need for additional housing stock, but finds it totally unacceptable that quality housing is being
demolished to allow for the building of hideous properties and blocks of flats which are out of character with the area. He finds it difficult to reconcile Poole Council’s policy of using resources carefully with the demolition of houses that are less than 10 years old. He went on to say that, whilst he welcomes the Localism Bill, he is concerned that more power will be given to a small elite of Councillors who have served far too long. He ended by showing the residents a flyer for an Open Day for a block of four flats built in-between two houses. He said that this is happening all the time and we must put a stop to it.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.45 pm.
Date of next Meeting: AGM on Saturday 14th May 2011 in Canford Cliffs Village Hall at 10.30am
The eight prospective candidates standing in Canford Cliffs Ward have been invited to attend our (BPCCRA) meeting on Wednesday, April 13, 2011
It has been agreed that, under Any Other Business, each candidate will be given the opportunity to speak for two minutes in order to outline their hopes/aims, if elected. To be fair to all candidates, there will no follow-up questions and each candidate will be taken in alphabetical order.
There will be an opportunity to chat with members at the conclusion of the formal meeting, which we expect to finish about 8.45pm
Attending:
The next meeting of the Branksome Park and Canford Cliffs Residents Association will be held in the hall of Branksome St. Aldhelms, on Wednesday April 13th at 7:30pm. Open to all.
MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING
HELD ON WEDNESDAY 9th MARCH 2011 AT 7.30PM
IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE
PRESENT:
1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllrs Mrs Haines and Neil Sorton and those present.
Apologies: Apologies received from Terry Stewart & Wayne Hancock who are attending the Community Working Group AGM, Michael Bond, Bob & Phyllis Young, William Mutlow & Ken Sanson, Chairman, Sandbanks Assn.
Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the JS meeting held on 09 FEBRUARY 2011.
2. MATTERS ARISING
Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments
2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – ditto.
3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto
4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto
5. Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – The 3rd installment of the Employment Contribution of £150,000 which was due on 01/01/11 is outstanding.
Chairman’s note: The applicant has approached the Council requesting to vary the phased payment schedule, in light of the economic climate. The Local Planning Authority is currently considering the request, but to date no decision has been made.
6. Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 440 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – The Agents have asked for an extension of the determination period until 31/07/11.
Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
JS reported…
Current planning enforcement issues
Victoria Education Centre (St Aldhelms Road entrance) – There are a number of contraventions which should be addressed
1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) revised retrospective application registered on 19/02/11.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) – An Enforcement Order is to be issued shortly.
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – No new developments.
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – ditto
Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) –
Community Working Group (CWG): JS said that he will circulate the Minutes of the CWG meeting on 26/01/11 with the Minutes of this meeting.
Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences: Martin Heath attended the Public Exhibition – Poole Bay, Poole Harbour and Wareham Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy.
MH reported that the exhibition was very interesting, describing the flooding problems That are likely to occur in the future due to climate change if nothing is done to protect the coastline. No specific strategies were described, although from conversations it would seem that more rock groynes might the most effective solution. Information from the exhibition is available on the Environment Agency website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/121331.aspx
Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: JS reported that Liz Wilkinson, the Council’s Chief Financial Officer, had given a presentation to the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group at its meeting on Monday and JS said that he would include Terry Stewart’s note on this in the Minutes.
• To understand the Council’s financial position, Liz recommended:
• Budget Paper: Financial Strategy for Council.
• Budget Book: Detailed Budget by Department.
• Transparency Website: for details on what has been spent.
• Virement is a transfer of budgeted money between Departments or Cost Centres. Above £25,000 needs Portfolio Holder approval.
• Above £500,000 needs full Council approval.
• Her role involves looking after the fiduciary interests of both current and future taxpayers. Responsible for Risk Management.
• Section 114 responsibility : stops Council doing anything illegal.
• Guardian & conscience of the Council, limiting illegal activity.
• She personally appointed Sir Michael Pitt, after only 2 weeks in post. Meeting told her that not all Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendations implemented :
• Cabinet Member still sitting as substitutes on Planning Committee.
• Need for change in Planning Committee Chairman.
• Councillors not “re-doubling efforts” to communicate.
• Objective of 2011-2 Budget to protect front line services, mostly achieved.
• 168 full time equivalent posts to be reduced – only about 30 forced redundancies.
• Finance Dept. lost 7.8 posts. Govt. has demanded the end of School Advisers. Poole Partnership – There was no report on Monday’s State of the Area Debate (an annual meeting of the Council jointly organised with Poole Partnership) as this clashed with the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group meeting.
Roland Cunnell felt that funding should be provided by the Council to promote enterprise and tourism, which will benefit the area. NS pointed out that a fair amount is being done at the moment and it is estimated that Tourism creates about 5,000 jobs in hotels, restaurants, pubs etc., and produces about £200m to the local economy.
Poole Partnership
There was no report on Monday’s State of the Area Debate (an annual meeting of the Council jointly organised with Poole Partnership) as this clashed with the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group meeting.
Public Rights of Way:
Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto
Footpath 82 Spur – JS is informed that Sandbanks Boatyard & Marina Co. Ltd. did appeal against the Definitive Modification Order to add Footpath 82 Spur prior to the deadline on 26/11/10. The Sandbanks Assn were not informed of this.
Chairman’s note: The Royal Motor Yacht Club are holding an Extraordinary General Meeting on 26/03/11 to discuss a proposal to buy Sandbanks Boatyard & Marina facilities
Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to set up a small Sub-Committee to look at this.
Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS reported that the draft licence agreement in connection with the Sunken garden has been returned to the JS/WH Council with the Assn’s corrections and comments.
3.8.2 of the Licence requires the Assn to provide Public Liability cover against loss damage or injury to persons or the property of any person arising out of or in connection with the Agreement for a sum of not less than £5m. To move things along, JS said that he had sent an e-mail to join the BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) so that the Assn can take advantage of the Zurich insurance scheme which provides the necessary cover. This will cost £191.76, including the membership fee of £35. The application has been processed it and the Assn’s insurance started on Friday 4th March.
SA raised the question of the wording of the Policy being checked to make sure it is suitable. Will the Council be checking it? JS will ask the Council for confirmation that the Policy is suitable for our needs.
Chairman’s Note: The Head of Leisure Services has agreed to the Daily Echo reporting and photographing the signing of the lease, the first in Poole.
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.
Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: JS said that Liz Wilkinson, Poole’s chief Finance Officer is responsible for this and it is hoped that Members will be up-dated MH about this at the next Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 07/04/11.
Localism and Decentralisation Bill: JS reported that a number of changes are being JS/TS made to the Bill as it works its way through Parliament.
3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
JS reported that Keith Alcroft had, once again, not been contacted about any planning application during the course of the month.
Land at 8 Buccleuch Road (Creation of 1 No. new dwelling with 2 No. off road parking All spaces) – To be determined by the Planning Committee at its meeting on 17/03/11. The officer’s recommendation is to ‘Grant subject to Upfront Payment’.
7 Ventry Close (Erection of 1no. dwelling and rationalisation of garage accommodation to no 7 Ventry Close) – To be determined by the Planning Committee at its meeting on 17/03/11. The officer’s recommendation is to ‘Grant subject to conditions’.
The debate about 3 Maxwell Road (Demolish existing building and erect 1 pair of semi- detached 4 bed houses) rumbles on. The Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting on 20/01/11 do not refer to any reasons for overturning the officer’s decision being agreed before the vote. According to Poole Council’s Constitution the correct procedure, which should have been followed, is as follows
“Where a Committee indicates that it intends to make a decision which is contrary to an Officer recommendation, clear, precise and convincing reasons for doing so must be set out in advance of a decision being taken, and a detailed minute of the decision, incorporating these reasons subsequently placed on the application file’.
However, at the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group meeting on Monday, members present were advised that the Canford Cliffs Land Society have decided not to pursue the complaint about the decision re 3 Maxwell Road. JS didn’t make a note of what was said but the gist of it was that the Society have taken legal opinion and, whilst the Planning Committee’s decision may be unsafe, there are insufficient grounds to pursue this through the Court.
17 Over Links Drive (Application to demolish existing and erect 2 detached houses granted on 31/01/08 but number of conditions should have been complied with before this development commenced)
Roland Cunnell asked had there been any developments, i.e. conditions being compliedwith before the development commenced, as no conditions had been complied with and the development has already been built. The two houses that have been built have an extra floor. Nobody from the Council appears to have taken any action regarding these contraventions and RC asks how has this been allowed to happen? JS said that this was a matter for one the Penn Hill Ward Councillors that he would contact Cllr Ron Parker saying that this matter had been raised at our meeting. The site also falls within the area covered by Dorset Lake Residents’ Assn.
3 Eaton Road (Tree works application to fell mature trees) – Mr and Mrs Hairsine of 10 Ormonde Road sought the Assn’s support in opposing this application and MH reported that this application had been refused.
Other current planning issues
63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Interested party comments were required by 14/03/11.
8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.
60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.
6. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total funds as at 31st February amounted to £34,529.09
S8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Ralph Dymond – JS said that he was sorry to report that Mr Dymond, who was Chairman of the Assn from (?)1993 until May 1996, passed away on 21/02/11. Mr Dymond was previously Hon Sec.
SA said that he remembers Mr. Dymond well and, in fact, once he was no longer Chairman of the Association he regularly attended the AGM.
Hedge at Kenilworth Court – MH reported that she has not been able to get hold of the Officer dealing with this. She drives past Kenilworth each week and reports that nothing has yet happened regarding the hedge.
BPCCRA AGM on 14/05/11 in Canford Cliffs Village Hall – It is planned that the Spring Magazine will be available for collection on 14/15th April, John Gunton would like to have copy for the magazine by Friday 18th March at the very latest.
JS has invited Liz Wilkinson, Poole’s Chief Finance Officer, to be the Assn’s Guest Speaker at our AGM to give a talk about the areas of uncertainty and risk which are likely to add further pressures into the Council’s Medium Term Financial Plan from 2012/13 onwards.
Roy Pointer suggests that she addresses the cuts that the council has faced and explains what the impact is on various areas.
Next Tuesday’s Health & Social Care Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting – JS said that Members of the Committee are to receive a verbal report on the NHS changes.
One of the Assn’s members feels that, with all the changes in NHS services to its patients in the pipeline, our elected representatives are being inadequately appraised of the changes and wonders if the Assn is of the same opinion about the tabling of verbal reports on such important matters. JS said that he had, subsequently, received a note from Cllr Charles Meachin saying that he is “on the case”.
Car Parking Charges – John Defty pointed out that car parking charges around the harbour appear to have been increased to £1.50/hour which he feels is fleecing the tourists to the area. He went on to say that there had been a Government instruction(?) that on-street car parking charges were not to be generated for revenue, and asked MH to comment on this matter. MH replied that she has no personal experience of this as she does not sit on the Transportation Advisory Group and it something she will have to look into, but at this point she has nothing to comment. She pointed out that the proposed introduction of parking meters on the Sandbanks peninsula had not gone through.
JS suggested sending a note to Cllr Ron Parker who is the Cabinet Member responsible for Transportation Services about the increase in charges of on-street parking saying that concerns had been expressed at our meeting that these charges may have a detrimental effect on our tourist industry.
Roy Pointer refutes that this will be so. SA thinks that the car parking charges are levied at the rate that the Council feels the market will bear, and feels that tourists should make a contribution for using the facilities which we, in the form of Council Tax, pay for.
It was agreed that the Assn ask Liz Wilkinson to address the subject of car parking charges at our AGM.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.40pm.
Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 13th April 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)
The next meeting of the Branksome Park and Canford Cliffs Residents Association will be held in the hall of Branksome St. Aldhelms, on Wednesday November 9th 2011 at 7:30pm. Open to all.
MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING
HELD ON WEDNESDAY 9th FEBRUARY 2011 AT 7.30PM
IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE
PRESENT:
1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllrs Mrs Deas & Mr Sorton, Mr. Ken Sanson and those present.
Apologies: Apologies received from Cllr Mrs May Haines, Mr. Terry Stewart & Mrs Daphne Howell
Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 12 JANUARY 2011.
2. MATTERS ARISING
Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments
2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – The Planning Inquiry to decide on the appeal by Metnor (Sopers Lane Ltd) into the refusal of the Borough of Poole to allow an 80-bed care home to be built on this site will take place on 05/04/11 at the Civic Centre at 10am and is expected to last for three days.
3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – No new developments
4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto
5. Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto
6. Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 440 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – No new developments
Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
JS reported…
1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) retrospective application refused on 14/01/11.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) –An Enforcement Order is to be issued shortly.
Other current planning enforcement issues
17 Over Links Drive (Application to demolish existing and erect 2 detached houses granted on 31/01/08 but number of conditions should have been complied with before this development commenced) – No new developments.
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – ditto
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – Retrospective application refused on 26/10/10. A revised application, for the whole development as it is being constructed with the over-hang, but requiring a detailed arboricultural impact assessment on the trees be included was requested on 29/12/10.
Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) –
Community Working Group (CWG): JS reported that he had attended the CWG meeting on 26/01/11 and the Agenda included…
• Membership of the group – This is to be decided at the Annual Meeting on Wed 9th March 2011, Conference Room, Civic Centre 6pm. WH will attend this meeting.
• Prosecutions – There may be more news to report shortly • Public Art – A report is to be presented at the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 29/03/11. JS said that, if anyone was interested, he can providea copy of the draft report.
• External decoration/design to properties in Conservation Areas – This related to shops in the High Street and an Article 4 Directive is being considered JS will circulate the Minutes when these are available.
Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences: This item is to be deleted from the Agenda until there is something new to report.
Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: WM reported on the Council Budget Monitoring (1 April 2010 – 31 December 2010)
The Council are in the process of identifying savings and a lot of information has recently been released. Based on its projections at the end of December, the Council expect an underspend as at 31st March 2011 of £523,000. However, there are several claims which may impact on this. There will be pressure from potential additional costs for Adult Social Care and there are extraordinary costs in the planned reorganisation of the Council which will include a large amount for redundancy. There will also be possible additional costs of £410,000 per annum for the Pension Scheme. There are still substantial savings which need to be made as there is a budgeted deficit for 2012/13 and 2013/14 and possibly thereafter. The bottom line is that, although there will be no increase in Council Tax for the forthcoming year, 2011/12, there may be increase for 2012/13
RP asked if there were any analysis carried out as to the age of people made redundant as this has a bearing on the costs. Neither JS nor NS know the answer to this.
WM pointed out that there are other major pressures which will impact on a balanced budget in future years.
Poole Partnership: – JS said that he would be attending the State of the Area Debate (an annual meeting of the Council jointly organised with Poole Partnership) on 07/03/11 to “continue to build on the discussions”, following ‘A Partnership Response to the cuts in Poole’ meeting on the 24/11/10.
Public Rights of Way:
Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto
Footpath 82 Spur –Sandbanks Boatyard & Marina Co. Ltd. did not appeal against the Definitive Modification Order to add Footpath 82 Spur. Further developments are awaited
Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to set up a small Sub-Committee to look at this.
Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS reported that WH had written to Legal & Democratic Services confirming the Assn’s agreement to the heads of terms.
The Assn’s proposal is to maintain the eastern and western rockeries, together with the eastern and western sunken gardens.
Once the agreement has been formalised, work will commence on the eastern rockery, which will be cleared and replanted with alpine and rockery plants, then progress to the western rockery, following completion of which a plan will be designed for the sunken gardens.
CD reported that the Council are hoping to formalise the agreement by the end of February and that the project is gathering momentum.
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.
Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: The Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2011/12 to 2013/14 presented at last night’s Cabinet meeting referred to “delivering targeted savings totalling £5.385m in new savings and efficiencies in support of the MTFP” with £560k of one-off funding set aside to support the Programme and no proposals to increase this further during 2011/12.
JS said that he will include the calculation of the £5.385m in the Minutes but there appears to be no Action Plan with timelines to achieve these savings. He has written to Cllr Mrs Haines about this in her capacity as Chairman of the Council Efficiency & Effectiveness Overview & Scrutiny Committee
Efficiency Review Project
Agreed savings target
£’000
ICT Print Strategy
240
Facilities Management
290
Procurement
2000
Admin Accommodation
250
Revenues & Benefits
255
Customer Transport
200
Staff Training & Development
250
Employee costs
1000
Income Generation
600
Street Scene
300
Total
5385
• • •
Localism and Decentralisation Bill:
JS said that a plain English guide describing the main measures of the Localism Bill under the following four headings has been published.
new freedoms and flexibilities for local government new rights and powers for communities and individuals reform to make the planning system more democratic and more effective reform to ensure that decisions about housing are taken locally
This runs to 21 pages and is available via the Dept. for Communities & Local Government website
<http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/localismplainenglishguide>
3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
JS reported that Keith Alcroft had, once again, not been contacted about any planning application during the course of the month.
JS had been contacted today about 63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Interested party comments required by 14/03/11. The Canford Cliffs Land Society do not want to see the houses as they would have an access onto Bessborough Road which we see to be undesirable. The flats we can live with as there are flats all the way down Haven Road now, but at least the garden space at the rear would be retained.
3 Maxwell Road (Demolish existing building and erect 1 pair of semi-detached 4 bed houses) – Officer’s recommendation to refuse over-turned by Planning Committee at their meeting on 20/01/11.
Martin Heath informed the meeting that he had been tracking this planning application and was surprised at the Planning Committee’s decision to grant. He described the sequence of events and some of the issues of the case. These included the Red Carding procedure where a resident who is aware that the Planning Officer is likely to recommend a refusal, asks a Councillor for the application to go to the Planning Committee, the length of the consultation period and whether the Committee were swayed by the Agent’s exaggerated claim of neighbour support. He also noted that no reason for the decision, which was contrary to the Case Officer’s recommendation, is recorded in the meeting minutes.
After MH’s report, there was some discussion on ‘red carding’ and the Ward Councillors present gave their opinions.
It was suggested that these issues be raised at the next meeting of the Community Working Group.
Other current planning issues
Land at 8 Buccleuch Road (Creation of 1 No. new dwelling with 2 No. off road parking spaces) Cllr Sorton has red-carded this application, if the planning officer is not minded to refuse this.
7 Ventry Close (Erection of 1no. dwelling and rationalisation of garage accommodation to no 7 Ventry Close) – Application registered on 15/10/10. Revised site location plan lodged on 03/12/10. Cllr Sorton has red-carded this application, if the planning officer is not minded to refuse this.
8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.
60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.
4. REPORT RE CANFORD CLIFFS & PENN HILL AREA COMMITTEE MEETING (26/01/11)
The meeting included a presentation about the Canford Cliffs Play Area and a lively discussion on the proposals to install parking meters on the Sandbanks Peninsula. MH reports that the Sandbanks parking meter proposal will not be progressed at the present time.
William Mutlow added that there had been a debate about the effectiveness of the Area Committee. WM said that the change in the composition of the Area Committees in 2003 had not proved to be a good idea as decisions about matters in Parkstone Ward were now decided by Members for Newtown Ward, whereas these were more likely to affect residents in Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill Wards. He cited the recent discussion about the Sandbanks Road railway bridge.
Chairman’s Note: The Forward Plan for the Council Efficiency And Effectiveness Overview And Scrutiny Committee says “Review of Area Committees – to be programmed into the Forward Plan for Spring 2011 as this will be a resource intensive exercise”.
5. REPORT RE MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVES FROM RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION ACTION AND COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, FOLLOWED BY INFORMAL MEETING WITH RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES (28/01/11)
JS said that Terry Stewart had written a comprehensive report on this meeting and he would include this in the Minutes – see below
NS was expressed disappointment that no representatives from Commerce & Industry attended the meeting and JS said that TS had also commented on the very poor attendance – out of the 40 some Residents’ and Community Associations in Poole, there were only 12 residents in attendance.
Note provided by TS of presentations by the Leader of the Council, Cllr Ms Elaine Atkinson & the Chief Financial Officer, Liz Wilkinson. Mrs Wilkinson’s additions to TS notes are shown in italics
1. Financial Cuts
• Required cuts to Council Budgets because of Government cuts ; 2011-2: £15m.2012-3: £8m. 2013-4: £10m. These were the figures as quoted on the slide included in the presentation. I noted in my presentation however, that on-going work on the Budget since the presentation had originally been prepared, meant that the forecast resourcing gap up to 2013/14 had been reduced to £13m overall – of which £4.5 in now forecast in 2012/13 and £8.5m in 2013/14 as the 2011/12 now balances to nil – these are the figures reported in the Budget report to Cabinet next week.
• If cuts were to come solely from job reduction this would mean 370 post reductions.
• But with good planning there will be about 50 compulsory redundancies and about 40 voluntary ones. The latest advice from the Head of HR as of Tuesday this week is that a total of 162 FTE posts are expected to be made redundant from the Council’s staffing establishment. These will be achieved through the deletion of vacant posts, not replacing staff due to retire, voluntary and compulsory redundancies. The maximum number of people expected to be made redundant on a compulsory basis is 50.
• There is a cut of 55% in the capital budget. Not quite – I made reference to the size of the cuts made to certain capital grants in the settlement – I think I made reference as an example to the 55% cut made in capital grants to schools as reported to Children’s Overview & Scrutiny Committee in the last few days by the responsible officers. The distinction is important because whilst capital grants are an important funding stream that the Council relies on to support its capital programme, they do not constitute the whole of the capital programme (as it is also funded from other sources too i.e. revenue contributions, capital receipts etc.
• This will mean a reorganisation of Council Departments. Only 7% cut in grants to voluntary bodies. Average of 7% in respect of the Communities portfolio area.
• No introduction of fortnightly bin collections.
• No closure of libraries, but some opening hours reduced and some staff reductions.
• Continual downsizing of Council Departments, reduction of posts.
• Bournemouth is outsourcing most of their admin costs, but Poole is not convinced.
• Considering joint operation for services with Bournemouth, implemented Adult Teaching.
• Council Gross Revenue Budget = £330 million, but if school expenditure is excluded 2011-2 Budget is £98 million. Not quite right. I said the Gross revenues Budget in 2010/11 was approx. £330m (including schools). The Net Budget Requirement for the Council in 2010/11 was £98m. The Net Budget requirement is the composite amount of general formula grant and monies to be levied from local Council Tax to achieve a balanced budget (having first deducted specific grants funded nationally – which includes things like direct schools grant and housing benefits payments). The Gross Budget figure is more relevant therefore in discussing the relative size/activity of a Council. The Net Budget requirement figure however is needed to calculate the rate of local Council Tax (i.e. service costs not otherwise funded by specific grant, local fees and income or by general formula grant).
• Council rents will increase 6.34%, but this is set by Government.
• Wage increase on April 1: 0%. This is the assumption made in the Budget proposed for Cabinet consideration next week.
• Reserves will be reduced to £5.9 million at April 1, 2011. Final figure proposed is £5.96m for 11/12
• Beach hut and parking charges increased substantially, additional parking meters installed such as all Sandbanks Roads.
• 2011-2 Council contribution for staff pensions will be 17.5%. 17.6% Increased to 18% 18.1% in 2012-3.
• Poole pensions are part of the Dorset County Pension Fund which is 80% funded (unlike central Government civil servants which are unfunded,i.e. current central pensions are paid for from current pension contributions. With longer living there is a MASSIVE pension liability.)
• The average pension that a Poole employee receives is only £4,000 per year. I said that Lord Hutton’s initial conclusions were that public sector pensions were not ‘gold plated’ and that the average public sector pension was according to his report, £4k. I did comment that clearly the pensions of some individuals who earn considerably more than the average employee would be in receipt of larger pensions as Lord Hutton’s figures are based on national averages.
2. Problems
The main cause of future financial pressures :
(a) Major future demographic increase in age 65+ and 85+.
(b) Increased birth rate by Poole residents, needing additional school places.
Apparently Poole currently has a low inward migration rate.
But with the planned 10,000 additional households in Poole this will mean population increases.
(c) Poole has a Government grant £155 per head less than Bournemouth. £164 less than the average for all unitary authorities and £151 less than Bournemouth.
(d) Most Councils have 50% of their revenue from Government grants, for Poole it is only 33%, so Council taxpayers have to make higher contribution. Final figures now determined for central: local funding shows that
• Unitary average 48:52
• Poole 30:70
3. Future Action
6. REPORT RE WORKSHOP EVENT RE TRANSPARENCY WEBSITE (28/01/11)
WH reported on the Workshop which had been held to show us how to use the transparency page on the BoP website. This is about 4 weeks behind the current date and amongst other things shows the Council expenditure over £500 – each month a new monthly section will be shown.
This data is also available on a page showing the date over a 12 month period. This is useful as it allows the user to compare the BoP data with any one of the 70 or so other local authorities using this system.
7. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total funds as at 31st January amounted to £33,203.72
8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Hedge at Kenilworth Court – MH reports that work was due to commence yesterday, though she has not had a chance to go by to inspect as yet. The Highway’s enforcement officer is keeping a close eye on this issue.
Vera Solomon – Geoff Solomon, a former Vice-Chairman (1996-1999) and Chairman (1999) of the Assn, telephoned this morning to say that his wife, Vera, had recently passed away and it was likely that he would be moving away from the area. A new Road Warden will be needed for Potters Way.
Data Protection Officer – JS reported that Stan Alfert will be stepping down as Data Protection Officer at the next AGM. JS said that he was, naturally, sorry about this but did understand his reasons, particularly as he had been looking after the Membership database for the last 15/20 years.
SA has kindly offered to print off 2 copies of the Wardens lists as at 31 Dec for Michael Bond within the next couple of months and also the Wardens’ labels, as this will give us a ‘breathing space’ to consider the way forward.
Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 9th March 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s All Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)
MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING
HELD ON WEDNESDAY 12th JANUARY 2010 AT 7.30PM
IN THE LOUNGE, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE
PRESENT:
1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllrs Mrs Haines & Sorton, Ken Sanson and all those present.
Apologies: Apologies received from Terry Stewart, William Mutlow & Daphne Howell
Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 08 DECEMBER 2010.
2. MATTERS ARISING Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments
2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – ditto
3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto
4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto
5. Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto
6. Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 440 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – No new developments
Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update: JS reported…
1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) – retrospective application lodged on 17/12/10.
15A Westminster Road – the railings have been removed and fence set back from the road side to permit planting in front of it.
Other current planning enforcement issues
17 Over Links Drive (Application to demolish existing and erect 2 detached houses granted on 31/01/08 but number of conditions should have been complied with before this development commenced) – No new developments.
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – ditto
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) –
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – Retrospective application refused on 26/10/10. A revised application, for the whole development as it is being constructed with the over-hang, but requiring a detailed arboricultural impact assessment on the trees be included was requested on 29/12/10.
Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) – No new developments.
Community Working Group (CWG): The next CWG meeting is on 26/01/11 – JS to attend.
Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences: No New developments
Poole Partnership: – Nothing to report.
Chairman’s note: I will be attending the next State of the Area Debate (an annual meeting of the Council jointly organised with Poole Partnership) on 07/03/11 to “continue to build on the discussions”, following ‘A Partnership Response to the cuts in Poole’ meeting on the 24/11/10.
Public Rights of Way:
Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto
Footpath 82 Spur – Sandbanks Boatyard & Marina Co. Ltd did not appeal against the Definitive Modification Order to add Footpath 82 Spur. Further developments are awaited.
Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: JS said that he was unable to report on the Council Budget Monitoring (1 April 2010 – 31 November 2010), as this has not been included in the Agenda for next Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting.
Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to set up a small Sub-Committee to look at this.
Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS said that, in the absence of comments, in relation to the Heads of Terms received from Poole Council Asset Management & Property Services Unit for the basis of the Licence for the Sunken Garden the Assn would reply confirming its agreement to this.
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.
Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: MH reported that a report on Efficiency Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 24/01/11. Review/Business Transformation Programmes is due to be presented to the Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 24/01/11.
Localism and Decentralisation Bill: The second reading of bill is due to take place next Monday 17th January. A report being presented at next Monday’s Standards Committee says that says it is anticipated that the Draft Localism Bill “will receive Royal Assent some time in the late Autumn of 2011” but in a note to JS/TS Terry Stewart dated 04/01/11, Robert Syms said that “I cannot see why it should not get Royal assent in summer..I will ask Government whips when we get back next week”.
3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
JS reported the application for Land at 8 Buccleuch Road (Creation of 1 No. new dwelling with 2 No. off road parking spaces) had been red-carded by Cllr Sorton, if the planning officer is not minded to refuse this.
There was a general discussion about the new BoP Planning Application website. Some members did not find the system ‘user friendly’. Some found it very slow in the evening. SA said that he accepted the necessity to log in to register representations but was concerned that insufficient time was allowed before those using the website were cut off as it had ‘timed out’. JS said that Keith Pegram, Projects and Performance Manager, for Planning and Regeneration Services welcomed feedback from users of the site.
Other current planning issues
The Nightjar, 6 Ravine Road (Fit new set of french doors to west elevation, erect new boarded timber fence and install a new extract system on roof at the rear) – Application granted with conditions on 20/12/10.
7 Ventry Close (Erection of 1no. dwelling and rationalisation of garage accommodation to no 7 Ventry Close) – Application registered on 15/10/10. Revised site location plan lodged on 03/12/10. Cllr Sorton has red-carded this application, if the planning officer is not minded to refuse this.
8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at is ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.
60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.
5. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total funds as at 31st December amounted to £31,403.77.
6. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Parking meters on all roads on Sandbanks peninsula – Cllr May Haines told the meeting of the Council’s proposal to install parking meters on all the roads on the Sandbanks peninsula. She pointed out the Council feel they need to do this to generate some much needed income. However, people who live on the peninsular and people who need to use it regularly for parking (e.g. the National Trust volunteers at Brownsea Island) have a different view.. Cllr. Haines has put together a form for members at the meeting to comment on and sign – i.e. ‘for’ ‘against’ ‘neutral’.
The Council have estimated that the capital cost of installing these meters is £58,000 and hope to raise £54,000 on an annual basis. Cllr. Haines’ proposal to the council was that they increased the amount of an annual beach parking permit, which has been at the same amount, £65 per annum, for a number of years.
This matter will come up at the next Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill Area Committee meeting on January 26, at Branksome St. Aldhem’s, Parish Centre and is open to all.
Distribution of Minutes – JS informed the meeting that presently there is a distribution list of some eighty members who receive their minutes, etc, by ‘snail mail’ at a cost to the Association of between £80 and £100/month, and the feeling is whether this cost is justified. The first idea is that a note be put in the minutes, asking if those who wish to continue receiving them ‘opt-in’. This may reduce the numbers on the ‘snail mail ‘mailing list.
He then opened this up to discussion. SA suggested that if this practice is continued people should re- register each year, ensuring the an accurate data base can be kept of members details and avoiding wasting postage. Cllr. Sorton suggested that if people ‘opt-in’ they should make a contribution towards the costs
It was pointed out that those members who receive the minutes by e mail are subsidizing those without. JS pointed out that the Association can afford to do this. SA suggested that there could be a two-tier subscription – if you wish to receive the minutes by mail the subscription would be increased to £10.
There was a suggestion that the minutes be available in the library.
As this whole issue was rather complicated, JS suggested that it could be brought up at the AGM and a decision can be made then.
Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 9th February 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)
On Sunday 27th March from 11am to 3pm The Sandbanks Hotel are hositng a Colour, Style and Pamper Day, in aid of Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. Demonstration workshops and stalls and a taster session from Sandbanks Oasis Spa. Entrance is free with a donation to Julia’s House Hospice. More information 01202 707377.
Today, there have been two reports of Distraction Burglaries in the Poole area
Two men have called at separate addresses stating that they were from the Water Board and needed the occupant to run their taps to see if blue dye came through the water system. The occupant at one of the properties allowed the males in and one man went with her to the kitchen. He turned the tap on and asked the occupant to monitor the water. The Lycka till! Blackjack ar till skillnad fran manga andra skicklighetsspel mycket latt att lara sig. other male was going from room to room. This type of distraction has been used in neighbouring areas.
Please do not, under any circumstances, allow people into you home who are using this story. If you receive such a caller at your door, deny them entry, close and lock the door and dial 999 as soon as possible to report the incident.
Try to give a description of the men and details of any vehicle you may have seen them use.