MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE & WARDENS MEETING

HELD ON 8TH JULY 2009 at 7.30pm

IN THE LOUNGE, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

Chair : Terry Stewart  President
John Defty      Treasurer
Keith Alcroft     Planning Officer
Stan Alfert        Data Protection Officer
Bob Young       Magazine Advertising
Val Short          Minutes Secretary

Cllr Mrs May Haines   Ward Councillor
Cllr Neil Sorton                   ditto

12 Members/Wardens

Welcomes: TS welcomed all those present, especially any present for the first time.

The meeting commenced with a unanimous vote of well wishes for John Sprackling.

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES (10 JUNE 2009)

Apologies: John Sprackling (Still recovering from recent op),  Michael Bond

Accuracy: KA has contacted JS about a correction needed on Page 3 in relation to the item on Canford Cliffs Chine.  This should be amended to read that the “leaves and detritus has washed onto the beach and is LYING in the trench formed by the digger, when clearing the sand from the base of the promenade wall.”

William Mutlow made a point about the expectation of an increase in council tax of 5½%. He said there should not be an automatic annual 5% increase.

TS said that, subject to this amendment, he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meetings held on 10 June 2009.

2. MATTERS ARISING :

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: TS reported that…

1.    Quayside (former) Dolphin Quays development –  No further developments
TS pointed out that there were retail units unlet after 3 years, which questioned plans for the Thistle site
2.    Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – ditto
3.    Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto
4.    Quay Thistle Hotel site – Application to demolish existing hotel and erect a mixed use development comprising of: a 149 bed hotel with 10 flats above; 133 flats in four blocks; a terrace of 11 houses; ground floor commercial and community space and a 273 space basement car park was lodged on 10/06/09.
TS circulated a picture of the proposed hotel development and asked for members’ opinions.  Comments included “Not dynamic”; “Legoland” and “Out of keeping with area”.  It was agreed that KA register a formal objection on behalf of Assn.  WM stressed the importance of protecting access to the Quay for Poole residents.  The disabled parking and drop-off point will remain as it is now. TS stated concerns that the roofline was hard and square, and that the architectural design did not meet Conservation Area requirements or complement the Dolphin Quays next door or the Ballard Street residential area.
5.    Old Orchard House. 39-61. High Street – No further developments

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

75 Canford Cliffs Road – An application for a second entrance was lodged 03/06/09 but the  Urban Design & Conservation Officer says that she does “not support a second access at this site”.

The appeal against the Enforcement Notice re the formation of the second entrance was dismissed and the inspector instructed the owner to remove the existing fence and re-instate the boundary wall at the newly created entrance with a compliance time of 3 months from the date of the notice namely 15th August. The Planning Enforcement Officer has informed JS that the date is already in his diary to carry out a monitoring visit. He goes on to say “Rest assured the matter is still being monitored.”
150 Canford Cliffs Road – This site has been cleared, cleaned and secured using the Council’s default powers under s215(9) The anticipated legal charge will be in the region of £3-5k.
51 Chaddesley Glen – Concern about the height of this newly built property in Chaddesley Glen. MH reported that the height was not excessive.
Bella Rosa, 37 Haven Road – Retrospective application to erect glass screens to front and side of decking at front of property was refused on 03/07/09.  Presumably Planning Enforcement will pursue?

Progress re Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendations following independent report into the control of development at the Borough of Poole:

Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendations were due to be monitored by the Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee but this item did not appear on the Agenda for the last meeting on 02/07/09 nor was it included in the Forward Plan.

TS pointed out that Sir Michael’s recommendation (3) stated that Cabinet members should not be members of the Planning Committee – or even substitutes.  But 2 Cabinet members had been nominated as substitutes. MH explained that insufficient people were coming forward to be substitutes on Planning Committee as this required special training.  However, she had completed training and would be available as a substitute. Cllr. Carole Deas was also trained.  Sir Michael’s recommendation (5) stated that, if a decision was not unanimous then “a record should be kept of Councillors abstaining and voting for and against the motion.”  However, the Planning Committee had agreed to only record if there was a vote of the Committee. Sir Michael’s recommendation (6) had asked for a “comprehensive review” of controlling development. Stephen Thorne had started a Review using the Community Working Group and an equivalent committee of developers. He is also calling in an outside IDEA Group to do a full audit of Poole’s Planning process. Chairman’s note: Meeting fixed for 16/07/09.
Community Working Group Meeting at Upton House

Roy Pointer reported on the Community Working Group meeting held this afternoon.  The group comprises 8 representatives of 40 groups of residents.  Stephen Thorne was asked how he would get feedback from residents’ associations and it was agreed that agendas and minutes would be put on the website along with contact details.
The meeting was mainly a presentation on the new Core Strategy and Stephen Thorne would welcome an invitation for him or his Manager to attend an Assn. meeting.  Subsequently it was agreed that the September 10 meeting was best.
The Planning Committee will vote using a card system, red for refuse, green for grant, and orange for abstain.  All members will vote by holding up a card at the same time, and the chairman will only vote in the event of a tie, and will generally vote in line with planning recommendations.
Third party appeals – developers can appeal, residents and the community can’t, too many individual appeals could get out of hand, so not good.  Ombudsman can judge.  Judicial review not to be entered into lightly. CPRE has been pressing for a change in national law.
Consistency of planning decisions :It would be helpful if members could report any cases known where different decisions were made in similar applications in the same area.
Pre-application consultation: Developers will be asked to convene a public meeting – hopefully this will happen.
Pre-application advice, which is paid for, is confidential, but will be published on the Planning Application website once an application is submitted.
External Audit of Poole’s Planning: Committee of 6 persons to judge what should be the council’s ‘best practice’.  To be reported by end August.
Absence of levels on plans:  Rules often complied with in spite of absence on plans.  New website will automatically include levels.
Car parking on development sites around Town Bridge could create a problem once development has taken place.
Long periods of inactivity on applications will be improved.  Stephen Thorne is keen to liaise with individuals and associations.
Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences:  No further developments.

Council Tax 2009/10 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: Following the Assn’s last meeting, JS contacted the Liz Wilkinson, Head of Financial Services and she accepted that the Council’s Budget
Monitoring – Financial Outturn Report for the period 1 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 was not clear as it could be for the ‘lay reader’ and, JS suspects, to some Members too.  The monitoring is intended to concentrate on the ‘real’ variances to the budgeted position rather than non-impacting book entries. Ms Wilkinson said that she is looking into how this can be better explained and reported in future years, if the Council retain this general approach to speeding up its year end closedown and reporting work.

Ms Wilkinson also hopes to better cross reference between different lines of entry across different accounting periods to help the reader make better sense of what is set out in future reports of this kind.

Ms Wilkinson has invited representatives of the Assn to meet with Mandy May to go through any of this in more detail or any other matter relating to the accounts if we would find that of assistance.

William Mutlow said that the latest Budget Monitoring report (1 April 2009 – 31 May 2009) shows major changes in the Council Budget, including one of £3.6million.

Poole Partnership: JS was unable to attend the Steering Group meeting on 24/06/09 as he’d only  been home from hospital a couple of days before.

One item on the Agenda was a presentation on the Audit Commission’s findings so far for Poole’s Comprehensive Area Assessment which can be viewed via <http://poole.poolepartnership.org.uk/CAA>. JS would encourage all members to take a look at this.

By way of background, the new system of Comprehensive Area Assessment introduced from April 2009 requires Local Authorities and other public agencies to account collectively for how well they are doing. An area risk assessment into the prospects for the area and the quality of life for local people forms a key part of the comprehensive area assessment.

In his capacity as Poole Partnership Steering Group representative for Residents’ & Tenants’ Assns and Community Groups, JS has been invited to attend a meeting of the Sustainable Communities Panel to be held on 13/07/09.  Other members of the Panel will be Cllr Gregory, Chris Beale – Director Poole Council for Voluntary Service and Adnan Choudry – Dorset Race Equality Council. TS stated that the Panel was meant to represent the whole community, so 3 Panel members were not enough. Was the Race Equality being politically correct since ethnic minorities were so low in Poole?

Lindsay Road to Station Road Corridor/Pedestrian refuge at junction of Penn Hill Ave and Spur Hill Ave: At the Assn’s last meeting a Ventry Close resident asked if anything could be done about the traffic noise along Lindsay Road.  JS contacted Transportation Services and has received the following reply.

“While I can fully appreciate the concerns of local residents here unfortunately the situation remains unchanged in that based on the factors we have to take into account when prioritising roads for inclusion in the surfacing programme, Lindsay Road is still some way down the list. I know you would have heard this before but with extremely limited funds available for maintenance we have to target roads which are failing structurally, and while it is clear that the shape and surface texture of Lindsay Road does leave a lot to be desired, unfortunately these factors simply cannot be addressed at this time.
And while I wouldn’t dispute that there is likely to more traffic now on Lindsay Road ( which is a classified road and therefore forms part of the highway network designed for through traffic), this is also true of many roads in the borough. However again this wouldn’t change the prioritisation in respect of road resurfacing – structural condition is the main factor.

Sorry I can’t bring any more positive news”

Canford Cliffs Village & proposal to plant trees in Haven Road: Keith Alcroft reported that a meeting was held on 11th June with Warren Leaver. MH reported that a scheme with “build-outs” will be proposed that will look at the whole parade of shops.

Public Rights of Way:

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No further developments
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road –  ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto

Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to set up a small Sub-Committee to look at this
.
Canford Cliffs Chine: No further developments

Canford Cliffs Play Area: ditto

Use of Assn’s Capital Reserve: ditto

Public Liability Insurance (PLI) –  JS is pursuing.

3.  NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

KA reported…

7A Bury Road (Demolish existing and erect replacement two storey dwelling with basement (Revised
Scheme)  Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 05/07/09.  NS commented that there was a definite loss of privacy for the owners of 18 Western Avenue.

Other current planning issues

11 Westminster Road (Demolish existing dwelling & erect a block of 5 2-bed apartments with basement parking & bin store) – Application registered on 29/05/09.  Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 09/06/09 and application has been ‘Red-carded’.
31A Western Avenue Demolish existing and erect replacement two storey dwelling with basement (Revised scheme –  Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 19/05/09. Subject to Appeal Hearing (APP/Q1255/A/09/2101686) on 18/08/09 at 10.00am.
11 Leicester Road
(a) Outline application to erect a 59 bedroom care home (class C2) with associated parking (15 spaces), bin & cycle store (revised scheme) – Application registered on 29/05/09.  Letter of
objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 15/06/09.  Application is to be ‘Red-carded’, if Planning Officer is minded to recommend ‘Grant’.
(b) Conservation Area application to demolish existing dwelling & associated buildings (revised scheme) – Application registered on 19/05/09. Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 29/05/09.
7 Ventry Close (Erect a link-detached 3-bedroom dwelling (revised scheme) – Subject to ‘Written representation’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/09/2102722) The date for final comments
from the appellants and LPA is 29/06/09.  The date of the site visit has yet to be announced.
Land adj 1 Over Links Drive (Sever land and erect a new detached house (Revised Scheme) – Letter of objection registered on behalf of Assn on 03/04/09 and application has been ‘Red-carded’.
14 Nairn Road
(a) Demolish existing bungalow and erect a four storey 5 bed house. (Revised Scheme) – Subject to Appeal Hearing (APP/Q1255/A/09/2100972) on 30/06/09.
(b) Demolish existing bungalow and erect a four storey five bed house. (Revised Scheme) Amended plans received 15th June 2009  – Application registered on 15/05/09 and has been ‘red-carded’.
Victoria School, 12 Lindsay Road (Extension to existing classrooms and loft conversion to offices) – Application registered on 22/05/09.
2 Tower Road (Conservation area application to demolish existing dwelling & erect 3 detached dwellings with associated parking) Application registered 17/12/08.  Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 23/01/09 and application is to be ‘Red-carded, if Planning Officer is minded to recommend ‘Grant’.
3 Tower Road (1 x 3 bed detached dwelling) – Application registered on 19/05/09. A note dated 27/05/09 from the Urban design and Conservation Officer recommends refusal.
Land adj. 2 Mornish Road (Conservation area application to erect a 5-bed detached house with integral garage, access from Mornish Road (Revised scheme) – Awaiting Inspector’s decision following Appeal Hearing (APP/Q1255/A/09/2098623) today.
Canford Cliffs, Promenade 2  (a) Construction of 18 new beach huts) – Application No: 08/24380/005/F & (b) Conservation Area application to demolish 8 beach huts (nos 99-106) adjacent to Canford Cliffs Chine. Application No: 08/24380/007/U The applications were registered as long ago as 22/01/08 &13/02/08 respectively.  MH will keep the Assn advised of any further developments.
19 Sandbourne Road (Demolish existing and erect 5 apartments over 3 storeys with basement parking and associated cycle and bin store) – Arboricultural officer comments lodged on 02/06/09.
20 Balcombe Road (Demolish existing and erect 3 detached houses (Revised Scheme) – Application refused on 27/05/09) – Meeting Note dated 02/06/09 states “the client was going to take the recently refused 3-house scheme to appeal. The client would also be requesting that the appeal be heard by way of a public inquiry.”
12 St Clair Road (Construct 2 detached dwellings with associated parking. (Revised Scheme) – Application registered on 08/05/09.  Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 09/06/09 and
application has been ‘Red-carded’
107 Lilliput Road (Erection of 12 flats with basement parking, cycle and bin storage.(Revised Scheme) (as amended by plans received 26.06.09) The S106 contributions and admin fees were settled on 22/05/09.
It is claimed that an affordable housing contribution is not applicable on this site as the building was predominantly built according to the current approval, and it is therefore deemed that it would be unfair and unreasonable for the LPA to request that the new affordable housing threshold is applied in this instance. JS has queried this.
4-6 Compton Avenue (Demolish existing and erect 2 blocks of flats (10 in total) with basement parking, bin and cycle stores. (Revised Scheme Block A). Revised plans received 05.02.2008)  – Application was registered as long ago as 18/12/07. Most recent posting on BoP planning Application website is a letter from the Agents dated 19/08/08 referring to the outstanding signed Section 106 Agreement which was due to be “issued to Poole Borough Council shortly.”  The flats have been largely constructed but it appears that no further work has been carried out on this site since the demise of Ravine Lifestyle.  The first six monthly progress report to creditors dated 20/02/09 indicates that, at that date, this site, along with the freehold properties, 57 Haven Road, 101 Lilliput Road has still to be sold.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Erect a block of 6 flats and a block of 5 flats with associated parking. Access from Lilliput Road (Revised Scheme) as amended plans received 06.04.06) – a number of breaches of Planning Conditions in relation to Application No: 06/11668/007/F have been highlighted by the LPA.
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.
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.    ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JD reported that funds at the end of June amounted to £34,263.

5.      ANY OTHER BUSINESS –

English Heritage – has severe concerns at conservation areas under threat and have asked for comments.  Let  JS know of any concerns.  Dorset has one of the largest number of conservation areas in the country.  NS commented that it is a Govt. requirement that conservation areas be reviewed on a regular basis.

Travellers Sites – Each council has to specify permanent and transit sites for travellers.  Poole have funding to upgrade the permanent site at Mannings Heath, but have yet to decide where to locate a transit site.  Merley Lane was withdrawn due to many resident objections and Beach Road Car Park was not included in a list of potential sites. TS is pressing for the final shortlist to be published for Consultation.

Rhododendrons in The Avenue – There have been a series of complaints about cutting down the rhododendrons along The Avenue.  The Council say it was necessary to improve visibility for car drivers and safety for pedestrians, but the contractors have virtually destroyed the rhododendrons by cutting them so low.

Recently erected Bollards at Ravine Road end of service road behind row of shops in Haven Road between Ravine Road and Maxwell Road – The owners of the businesses want to know why these bollards have been erected. This cut through has been there for 25 years.  There have been no letters and no consultation.  Michael Bond is investigating. These bollards are on private land, there is a notice to this effect stating that a permit is needed to park and a penalty of £150 if towed away. The owners of shops are not happy and MH will raise this at the Traders Meeting. NS reported that the bollards had been erected on private land and were probably legal. Entry will have to be from the other end.

Garden at Church of the Transfiguration – A member reported that following the removal of some trees at the Church of the Transfiguration, to which the Assn. contributed, plants and wildlife, including bats, are flourishing.

Redevelopment of 19 Torbay Road – There is to be a Pre-application meeting with residents.  Rose Rogers and Alice will attend and report back.  Chairman’s note: The meeting with the Agents, Urban DNA and the architect Nick Hebden is to take place on the site at 8:00 pm on Wednesday 15th July 2009.

TS closed the meeting at 8.42pm.

Date of next Meeting:  The next meeting is Wednesday 12th August 2009  in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE & WARDENS MEETING

HELD ON 8^TH JUNE 2009 at 7.30pm

IN THE LOUNGE, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

Terry Stewart President

John Sprackling Chairman

John Defty Treasurer

Keith Alcroft Planning Officer

Stan Alfert Data Protection Officer

Bob Young Magazine Advertising

Cllr Mrs May Haines Ward Councillor

Ken Sanson, Chairman, Sandbanks Assn

22 Members/Wardens

Welcomes: JS welcomed all those present, especially any present for the first time. JS also welcomed Karen Corbett who had kindly agreed to take notes of the meeting.

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES (08 APRIL 2009)

Apologies: Cllr Neil Sorton, Michael Bond, John Gunton, Val Short (Minutes Secretary), Richard Dimbleby, John Fox. Brian Hambleton & Roy Pointer.

Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 08 April 2009.

2. MATTERS ARISING :

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported that…

1. Quayside (former) Dolphin Quays development – No further developments

2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – ditto

3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto

4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – The applicants are intending to submit an application shortly and it is hoped that this “will take on board comments made in response to the Public Consultation exercise.”

5. Old Orchard House. 39-61. High Street – No further developments

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

Fitzmor Homes Ltd (Vol. liquidation creditors) sites – The advertisement board at 7 Balcombe Road and oversize ‘For Sale’ board at 18 Balcombe Road have been removed.

75 Canford Cliffs Road – The appeal against the Enforcement Notice re the formation of the second entrance was dismissed on 15/05/09 and the owner has been instructed to remove the existing fence and re-instate the boundary wall at the newly created entrance within 3 months.

138 Canford Cliffs Road – The Notices have been displayed in the immediate area reporting wilful damage to a tree on 09/05/09 but, to date, these have not resulted in anyone coming forward with information.

150 Canford Cliffs Road – The Section 215 Notice was served on 15/05/09 with a compliance date of 16/06/09, so the Council cannot do anything further until after this date.

Progress re Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendation: At the Full Council meeting on 12/05/09, Cllr Mrs Stribley stood down as Deputy Leader of the Council – to be replaced by Cllr Collier. I think that Cllr Mrs Stribley also stood down as Conservative Group Leader.

Cllr Mrs Stribley remains Chairman of the Planning Committee for the coming Municipal Year and the number of Committee Members has been increased from the current eight to nine.

No decision has been made regarding Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendation that “a record should be kept of Councillors abstaining and voting for and against the motion“. It seems that this recommendation is meeting resistance in some quarters and before reaching a

decision, the Head of Planning & Regeneration is carrying out research into the practice of other Councils in this respect.

Residents Working Group meeting (13/05/09) – JS said that Roy Pointer had reported that 10 individuals had attended the meeting representing 10 Residents’ Assns spread throughout the Borough and most of the time was spent exploring its role.

JS said that he will circulate Minutes of meeting with the Minutes of this meeting.

A similar meeting is planned for developers.

The next meeting is scheduled for 8 July at 2pm. Chairman’s note: Roy Pointer has subsequently contacted me to say that he is now available to attend this meeting as the Assn’s representative.

Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences: No further developments.

Council Tax 2009/10 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: William Mutlow reported that the Council’s Budget Monitoring – Financial Outturn Report for the period 1 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 shows a £1.683m surplus.

Chairman’s note: WM also referred a number of differences between the Council Budget Monitoring statement for December 2008 and that for March 2009 but this does not take account of two statements covering the periods 1 April 2008 – 31 January 2009 and 1 April 2008 – 28 February 2009 presented at subsequent Cabinet meetings and I have asked WM if he might see if these clarify some of his queries.

WM referred to adjustments relating to Financial Reporting Standard (FRS)15. These guidelines require that costs that should not be capitalised, where they are not directly attributable to bringing a physical asset into working condition. Examples include

preparing procedures for how a new system/asset will operate, training of staff in the use of the asset, promoting the new service/asset, the cost of alternative arrangements (hiring alternative accommodation) whilst the property is built, etc.

As a consequence of this guidance, certain expenditure previously recorded as capital thought-out the year has now been transferred and shown as chargeable to revenue.

Poole Partnership: JS reported that the Steering Group meeting due to be held on 22/04/09 was cancelled. The next meeting has been fixed for 24/06/09 but JS has sent his apologies as he will only just returned home from his operation.

Lindsay Road to Station Road Corridor/Pedestrian refuge at junction of Penn Hill Ave and Spur Hill Ave: William Mutlow reported that as Penn Hill Ave had been designated as part of the Prime Transport Corridor from Lindsay Road to Ashley Cross, more traffic is using this road. This has made it difficult for the elderly to crossing difficult to cross this road and a refuge in the centre of the road is urgently needed.

This issue was raised at the Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill area meeting on 03/06/09 and residents were informed that there are currently 39 sites on the Council’s list, 7 of which have a higher ranking than this site. Two of these 7 facilities are likely to be installed in this financial year. At the next Area meeting, residents are to be told how the priorities are determined.

The meeting was attended by a number of residents from the Abbeyfield Home at the junction of Spur Hill Ave and Penn Hill Ave and WM emphasised the importance of attending Area Committee meetings to show Ward Councillors the strength of local feeling.

Canford Cliffs Village & proposal to plant trees in Haven Road: Keith Alcroft reported that he had not made much progress. He is experiencing resistance from Transportation Services who are looking to produce a Borough-wide policy for trees in an urban

environment in conjunction with the Conservation Officer for Planning & Regeneration Services.

MH said that the Canford Cliffs Land Society are exploring the idea of palm trees in planters, which would avoid the problem of root spread, and an on-site meeting with an Urban Design Team officer has been arranged for next Wednesday

MH felt that this might be an appropriate solution as an interim measure while the discussions on a Borough-wide policy for trees in an urban environment are ongoing

Bella Rosa, 37 Haven Road – JS reported that a retrospective application for the screen was lodged on 11/05/09 at the request of Planning Enforcement Dept. Following the visit by the Planning Enforcement and Transportation Services officers visited on 04/02/09, it

was agreed that the line of sight is obscured but, as yet, no report has been posted on the BoP Planning Application website from Transportation Services.

Chairman’s Note: A ‘Written Representations’ appeal against the Enforcement Order was lodged last month but, in order not to waste public funds responding to an enforcement appeal unnecessarily, the enforcement notice has been withdrawn and the Enforcement Officer’s concerns over the retention of the screens have been forwarded for the attention of the case officer.

Public Rights of Way:

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No further developments

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto

Bessborough Road – ditto

Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to set up a small Sub-Committee to look at this.

Canford Cliffs Chine: KA reported that, following the recent downpour, a large amount of leaves and detritus has washed onto the beach and is being cleared up by a digger.

MH said that the possibility of using youth offenders to do some planting had been discarded on the grounds of the cost of supervision and is not going to happen. It was suggested that residents might be willing to help but MH felt that, as the Council took rhododendron away, it was not fair to residents ask to assist with the remedial work

Fossilised tree discovered at Branksome Chine: JS reported that the fossilised tree is now in place at Branksome Chine next to canoe lifeguards station beside the Beach Office. The current explanatory notice is to be replaced with a permanent board in due course.

KA commented that a large sign had been erected in the place originally proposed but which had been deemed inappropriate by the Head of Leisure Services

Chairman’s note: The information board in question has been there for several weeks and, for those with limited mobility, the disabled parking bays are sited well away from the sign

The refuse bins beside the fossilised tree have been removed, as has the ‘old’ notice board. I assume that the proposed explanatory board is to be put in place in due course.

Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff wildlife trail: JS reported that the official unveiling of the play sculptures took place on 07/05/09.

Double Yellow Lines on Woodside Road: JS reported that this proposal had been rejected by the two Penn Hill Ward Councillors who attended the Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill Area Committee meeting held on 03/06/09.

Use of Assn’s Capital Reserve: JS invited Kathleen Hurley to put her request for a donation towards an extension to the existing Meeting Room at the Canford Cliffs Library to enable members to attend regular meeting, and would also provide room for educational projects for both young and old.

KH said that, as ‘Friends of Canford Cliffs Library’, they are the victims of our own success and have outgrown the Meeting Room. Approx 70 people are members but only about 20 at a time can attend the regular Monday Coffee morning due to lack of space.

The plans are quite modest, the extension the Friends have in mind would cost approximately £20,000. Ward Councillors support the Friends, but Poole Council have informed the Friends that there is unlikely to be any cash for some time to come.

The Friends have prepared an application to the Grass Roots association for a grant of £5,000, but they advise the Friends to delay sending this in until the Friends can say where the majority of the money needed will come from.

The Friends currently have funds totalling around £3,500 and the purchase of a Coffee Machine is in the pipeline

JS asked those present how much of our current reserves (around £34,000) they felt that the Assn should commit to support project.

Roy Fluellen suggested 50% but JS, from the chair, thought that this was being over-generous.

SA suggested £5000 but to be conditional on the funds being released only when agreement to go ahead with the extension was guaranteed. SA was concerned that if the funds were handed over now, these might get swallowed up in the administrative costs of getting the project off the ground.

TS supported a donation of £5,000 and asked if the Canford Cliffs Land Society had been asked for their support. KH said that the Land Society had seemed reluctant to release funds for this project.

Kevin Goldstein Jackson suggested a donation of £4,000 and said that we should seek a plaque/board to include the Assn’s name in recognition of contribution.

A member suggested the possible release of 50% to get the project started.

SA reminded members of the £5,000 spent on the abortive Luscombe Valley Judicial Review and said that this donation needs to be put on a formalised footing, as the Assn is spending other peoples money and would expect to see success of the project.

JS put the matter to the vote with a show of hands. A donation of £5000 was agreed (14 voting in favour) An alternative of £4000 received 6 votes in favour)

KH thanked the Assn and said its generosity was appreciated.

3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

KA reported…

12 St Clair Road (Construct 2 detached dwellings with associated parking. (Revised Scheme) – Application registered on 08/05/09. Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 09/06/09.

11 Westminster Road (Demolish existing dwelling & erect a block of 5 2-bed apartments with basement parking & bin store) – Application registered on 29/05/09. Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 09/06/09.

11 Leicester Road

(a) Conservation Area application to demolish existing dwelling & outline application erect a 59 bedroom care home, bin and cycle store and associated parking (15 casino online spaces) with some matters reserved – Applications refused by Planning Committee on 16/04/09.

(b) Outline application to erect a 59 bedroom care home (class C2) with associated parking (15 spaces), bin & cycle store (revised scheme) – Application registered on 29/05/09. KA is waiting to hear from neighbours.

(c) Conservation Area application to demolish existing dwelling & associated buildings (revised scheme) – Application registered on 19/05/09. Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 29/05/09.

The Avenue/Western Road Traffic Lights (A 12m Slimline Streetworks pole with shrouded antennas and one telecommunications cabinet) – application was refused on 05/06/09.

Other current planning issues

7 Ventry Close (Erect a link-detached 3-bedroom dwelling (revised scheme) – Subject to ‘Written representation’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/09/2102722) The date for final comments

from the appellants and LPA is 29/06/09. The date of the site visit has yet to be announced.

Land adj 1 Over Links Drive (Sever land and erect a new detached house(Revised Scheme) – Letter of objection registered on behalf of Assn on 03/04/09.

36 Links Road (Demolish part of existing bungalow and erect 2 storey house. Demolition of remainder of existing bungalow after completion of new build) – Application granted on 22/04/09

14 Nairn Road

(a) Demolish existing bungalow and erect a four storey 6 bed house – Appeal (APP/Q1255/A/09/2094445) dismissed on 28/05/09.

(b) Demolish existing bungalow and erect a four storey 5 bed house. (Revised Scheme) – Subject to Appeal Hearing (APP/Q1255/A/09/2100972) on 30/06/09.

(c) Demolish existing bungalow & erect a four storey five bed house (Revised scheme) – Application registered on 15/05/09 and has been ‘red-carded’.

Victoria School, 12 Lindsay Road

(a) Erect modular classroom building comprising 3 classrooms, entrance hall and toilet facilities) – .Application withdrawn on 14/03/09.

(b) Extension to existing classrooms and loft conversion to offices – Application registered on 22/05/09.

(2 Tower Road Conservation area application to demolish existing dwelling & erect 3 detached dwellings with associated parking) Application registered 17/12/08. Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 23/01/09. If the officers are not minded to refuse this application under delegated authority, this will be decided by the Planning Committee at a date yet to be announced.

3 Tower Road (1 x 3 bed detached dwelling) – Application registered on 19/05/09. A note dated 27/05/09 from the Urban design and Conservation Officer recommends refusal.

Land adj. 2 Mornish Road (Conservation area application to erect a 5-bed detached house with integral garage, access from Mornish Road (Revised scheme) – Application subject to Appeal Hearing (APP/Q1255/A/09/2098623) on 08/07/09.

20 Balcombe Road

(a) Demolish existing and erect 3 detached houses. As amended by plans received 15/09/08

(b) Demolish existing dwelling and erect 5 no. 2 bed apartments. As amended by plan received 11/09/08. – Appeals against the refusal to grant (a) & (b) were withdrawn on 17/04/09.

(c) Demolish existing and erect 3 detached houses (Revised Scheme) – Application refused on 27/05/09.

16-18 Durrant Road (Demolish existing and erect 2 blocks of 6 flats (12 total) with single linked basement garage) – application granted by Planning Committee on 17/04/08 and subject to complaint by local residents to Local Government Ombudsman. One complaint was dismissed and it is assumed the other was too.

Canford Cliffs, Promenade 2 (a) Construction of 18 new beach huts) – Application No: 08/24380/005/F & (b) Conservation Area application to demolish 8 beach huts (nos 99-106) adjacent to Canford Cliffs Chine. Application No: 08/24380/007/U The applications were registered as long ago as 22/01/08 &13/02/08 respectively. MH will keep the Assn advised of any further developments.

19 Sandbourne Road (Demolish existing and erect 5 apartments over 3 storeys with basement parking and associated cycle and bin store) – Amended plans lodged on 12/05/09.

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.

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 SOUTHERN POOLE CHAIRMENS’ LIAISON GROUP MEETING (20/05/09) – TS reported that, in addition the usual routine topics, Cllr Peter Adams gave a talk on Sustainable Communities Act (SCA) 2007

• · The Council has adopted this discretionary legislation but have no powers to raise tax to fund its operation.
• · The aim of the SCA 2007 is to improve the ‘wellbeing’ of community by encouraging suggestions from residents.
• · New original ideas are being looked for with the first set required urgently since the first half-yearly collection ends late July.
• · Examples might include the right of objectors to appeal a planning decision rather like developers can.
• · Ideas can be accepted at Council level or promoted up to Secretary of State level.

Cllr Adams also spoke about (a) the £1.2m Playbuilder scheme to improve play areas around the Borough (b) adult electronic equipment in Poole Park, (c) Upton Park review and (d) the provision of headquarters for the Canoe Club at the former site of the outdoor swimming pool in Park Lake Road.

In answer to a question from a member, MH said that no decision had been made about the make-up of the Residents’ panel to review the ideas put forward under the SCA 2007

5. REPORT RE NEWTOWN & PARKSTONE AREA COMMITTEE MEETING (13/05/09) – As no one present had attended this meeting, there was no report.

6. REPORT RE CANFORD CLIFFS & PENN HILL AREA COMMITTEE MEETING (03/06/09) – JS said that a number of the issues discussed at the meeting had been dealt with earlier but he mentioned South East Dorset Transport Study and suggested that members may like to collect a questionnaire from the Public Library. TS said that the survey was costing £5/6m but said that this was required to obtain the necessary funding for various road improvements in the area. JS has received an invitation to a Wider Reference Group meeting on 01/07/09 in his capacity as Poole Partnership Steering Group representative for Residents’ & Tenants’ Assns and Community Groups but he suspects that he will still be convalescing from his operation, TS will attend in his stead.

7. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JD reported that the that funds at the end May was around £34,000.

JS said that Bob Young is hoping that if all those who have indicated that they would like to place an advert in the Assn’s Autumn 2009 magazine, this should bring in around £2,650 which would, more or less, cover the cost of the magazine.

8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS –

Flytipping in Dover Road – JS reported that a second incidence of flytipping has occurred in Dover Road. On the first occasion it was a lorry load but this time it was a ’skip’ load. Maggie Mills reported that, thanks to the intervention of Cllr Collier, this has now been cleared

Kevin Goldstein-Jackson congratulated the Council on the “fantastic response” in clearing rubbish dumped in the Martello Woods.

Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – Following the demise of the Dorset Federation of Residents’ Assns, the Assn no longer has PLI cover. JS is pursuing.

Ventry Close – 5 new members attended meeting. A Ventry Close resident asked if anything could be done about the traffic noise along Lindsay Road, particularly replace the current stone surface with tarmac. Concern was also expressed about speeding vehicles in Lindsay Road.

JS agreed that the problem had worsened since Lindsay Road had become a Prime Transport Corridor to Ashley Cross but he had written to the Council about this 2/3 years ago and was told that re-surfacing of Lindsay Road was a low priority.

JS said that he would pick this issue up again

Canford Cliffs Traders Assn Fund raising event – MH informed the meeting of this event, with ‘bring and share’ lunch to be held at 16 De Mauley Road on Wednesday, 17^th June 12 noon – 5pm.

51 Chaddesley Glen – Bob Milligan raised a concern about this newly built property in Chaddesley Glen which seems higher than agreed planning consent. MH agreed to investigate.

SA felt that BM should not raise his hopes that any action would be taken as, in his

experience, developers seem to breach height restrictions with impunity.

Rock Groynes at Branksome Chine – Rose Rogers said that she was “horrified at the rock groynes on ‘our lovely beach” but JS said that these were now a ‘fait accompli’ and, in his opinion, were not as obtrusive as he once feared.

JS closed the meeting at 8.35pm.

Date of next Meeting: The next meeting is Wednesday 8^th July 2009 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)

MINUTES OF THE FIFTIETH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS AND DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION,

HELD AT 10.30am ON SATURDAY, 2ND MAY 2009

IN ALL SAINTS CHURCH HALL

PRESENT:

Mr Terry Stewart President

Mr John Sprackling Chairman

Mr John Defty Hon Treasurer

Mr Keith Alcroft Planning Officer

Mr John Gunton Magazine Editor

Mr Stan Alfert Data Protection Officer

GUESTS: Robert Syms MP

Cllr Mrs Carole Deas

Cllr Mrs May Haines

Cllr Neil Sorton

And approx 70 Members/Wardens of the Association

1. WELCOME

The Chairman thanked everyone for coming along. In particular he welcomed the guests mentioned above. JS advised that the Guest Speaker, Stephen Thorne, Poole’s newly appointed Head of Planning and Regeneration would join the meeting at approximately 11am after the official business had been dealt with.

2. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Terry Smith (Secretary), Reg & Cecilia Grimston & Roland Cunnell.

3. AGM 2008 MINUTES: Accuracy & Matters Arising

The Chairman reminded members that the Minutes of the AGM held on 3^rd May 2008 had been included in the Autumn 2008 magazine. The Chairman said that he had not been contacted about their accuracy and asked for a show of hands to approve the Minutes as no queries had arisen. This was given and the Minutes were approved.

4. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

The Chairman proposed to limit his report to the up-dating of items included in the Spring magazine as follows:

Poole’s Local Development Framework

The period of legal challenge in relation to Poole’s Core Strategy ended yesterday (01/05/09)

Site Specific Allocations policy – A local Planning Consultants firm, Matrix, have been engaged by the Council to prepare Character Area assessments for the Borough and a meeting with Council officers and Matrix took place yesterday (01/05/09). Alongside this work, policies within the current Poole Local Plan are being reviewed. 69 sites for redevelopment have been selected and discussions are due to take place with developers. The Council are still looking at a potential transit site for travellers – space for 8 pitches are required in addition to the site for settled travellers at Mannings Heath.

Sir Michael Pitt’s independent review of planning matters in Poole

JS referred to response by Cllr Mrs Stribley, Chairman of the Planning Committee, to a letter from Roy Godfrey, Chairman of Broadstone Residents’ Assn letter which appeared in the letter’s section of Thursday’s Daily Echo.

The gist of the letter was that…

• · Senior officers have already put in place mechanisms to minimise the possibility of any unlawful activity.

• · As part of our ongoing communications strategy, the Council will be having regular meetings with Residents’ Associations.

• · While, at his request, no changes were made during Sir Michael’s investigation, after the Annual Council on 12^th May, no permanent member of the Planning Committee will also be a member of Cabinet, thereby clearly demonstrating the separation of the roles of policy from development and delivery.

• · The matters covered by Recommenation 7 have been resolved within the ruling Conservative group.

• · The newly appointed Head of Planning and Regeneration will be conducting a full and comprehensive review of the development control process to make any possible improvements in efficiency and service delivery.

• · While the majority of Sir Michael’s recommendations have been or are being implemented, councillors are unlikely to implement them all, but for very good reason. For example, at the present time we do not feel it appropriate to seek increased remuneration for Planning Committee members.

• · Matters covered under recommendation 7 Have been resolved.

In answer to a query from the floor, JS agreed it would appear that Cllr Stribley would no longer be able to stay in her current role. These posts are announced on the night and there is no prior notice. JS advised he would be attending the meeting on 12 May.

Chairman’s note: Agenda for next Thursday’s Planning Committee which shows the number of Committee Members reduced from the current eight to seven with Cllr Mrs Stribley (Chairman), Cllr Mrs Walton (Vice-Chairman) and Cllrs Allen, Mrs Butt, Mrs Long, Wilkins and Wilson

Cllr Carole Deas asked if she could comment on Cllr Stribley’s letter in last week’s Echo and JS asked that this be included under AOB at the end of the meeting.

Planning Enforcement, Tree Preservation Orders/Tree replacements

150 Canford Cliffs Road – The Planning Enforcement Officer wrote to the owner’s solicitors, Morgan Hall in Ilford last Wednesday inquiring about progress on boarding and securing the property as more rubbish and detritus has been dumped on the site. The officer is now considering a formal notice to secure compliance with his earlier request.

Lindsay Road to Station Road Prime Transport Corridor The long awaited public work of art at the junction of Penn Hill Avenue and North Lodge Road is due to be installed at the end of this month.

An Assn member, William Mutlow has been doing his best to raise the profile of the difficulty being experienced by the elderly residents living in the Abbeyfield House at the junction of Spur Hill Ave and Penn Hill Ave in crossing Penn Hill Ave at this point. Mr Mutlow raised this matter again at last Wednesday’s Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill Area Committee meeting and Cllr Mrs Stribley said that the Council were looking at the possibility of installing a pedestrian refuge at this point.

Canford Cliffs Village – The proposal to plant trees in Haven Road is being progressed by Keith Alcroft, our Planning Officer

Fossilised tree discovered at Branksome Chine – Plans to mount this on a plinth at Branksome Chine are well advanced.

Poole Quay – the Assn has for some years taken a close interest in the properties on the Quay (two of which are on Borough-owned land), which were formerly owned by Orb Estates or its subsidiaries.

Quay Thistle Hotel site – Plans for the development of this site with more than 150 homes, a four-star hotel, plus shops and restaurants, were recently put on casino online display in Poole’s Dolphin Centre. A planning application is expected in May.

The 150-bed hotel on the east end of the site, including a conference centre and restaurant and lounge at quay level, would be the first phase of the project – with the demolition of the Quay Thistle and the residential development only going ahead when the economic climate improves.

Swan Inn site – An application for the Swan Inn (Change of Use from Retail (Class A1) to Museum/visitor attraction (Class D1) was approved on 03/04/09 but an article in Thursday’s Daily Echo reports that Viv Endecott, who runs the Blyton-themed Ginger Pop Shop at Corfe Castle, had planned to transform the property into the Enid Blyton Story Centre but this will not materialise after failing to reach an agreement with the holders of the intellectual property rights to Blyton’s work. Ms Endecott is now looking at other alternative themes for the museum.

As reported in the Spring 2009 magazine, as long ago as 13/11/07, Dr Smith the high-profile boss of the company behind the ‘Quayside’ (former Dolphin Quays) development was ordered to pay nearly £41 million by way of confiscation and given 12 months to pay

With Robert Sym’s help, JS’s enquiries have recently revealed that Dr Smith has not fully satisfied the Order and so enforcement receivers have been appointed to identify and liquidate his assets in order to satisfy the Order. This action “involves a considerable amount of time and court related applications and is still going on”

Portacabins at Whitecliff Recreation Ground – the services to the Portacabins are being disconnected and some internal preparation work started last Wednesday. Other work in preparation to remove the Portacabins from the site is being undertaken shortly.

The Portcabins are all being put to use within the Council and this will be in the public domain shortly.

Luscombe Valley Judicial Review – some members may be unaware that a group of nearby residents took the Council to the High Court for a Judicial Review to challenge the Planning Approval of the application to build 6 blocks of flats next to the Luscombe Valley Nature Reserve.

The Assn took Solicitor’s advice about whether the Assn should become involved in this matter and the advice the Assn received was that the Assn could do so provided that the Assn was simply a ‘pure funder’. On this basis, the Assn made a total donation of £4,000. I attended the Court Hearing and, on my arrival home on Day 1, I sent an e-mail to the Luscombe Valley Residents’ Group pointing out that an incorrect statement had been made in Court by the Council’s Barrister but, I committed an indiscretion by copying this in to the Barrister himself. It was clearly not my intention to intervene in the proceedings but simply to point out an error in the statement made in Court.

JS said that it was planned meet next week with members of the Group to discuss this.

David Riley wished to raise a point and it was agreed that this could be covered under AOB at the end of the meeting.

Vice Chairman – the Chairman advised that the Association is still looking for a Vice Chairman and JS thanked the President, Terry Stewart, for covering this role and for his support during the year

5. TREASURER’S REPORT AND APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR

John Defty advised there was nothing further to add to the Income and Expenditure Account included in the Spring 2009 magazine. He advised that his telephone number and email address are noted in the magazine and he was available to answer any queries in relation to the Accounts.

6. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR:

Peter Schofield had audited the Accounts and has agreed to continue for a further year. JS asked for approval by the meeting and this was given by a show of hands..

7. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN

Terry Stewart advised that John Sprackling had acted as Chairman for a number of years, holding monthly meetings and working hard on the Association’s behalf and he proposed that John Sprackling continue in his role. This proposal was carried by a show of hands. (and applause!)

8. ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE

JS advised that the members of the current executive committee were willing to stand again but that from April 2010 they will be looking for a Minutes Secretary. A show of hands carried the motion that the current Executive continue for a further year.

President Terry Stewart

Chairman John Sprackling

Vice Chairman Vacant

Treasurer John Defty

Membership Secretary Michael Bond

Planning Officer Keith Alcroft

Secretary Terry Smith

Data Protection Officer Stan Alfert

Magazine Editor John Gunton

Magazine Advertising Bob Young

Minute Secretary Val Short

7. PRESENTATION BY STEPHEN THORNE, RD, ADC, BTP, MRTPI – HEAD OF PLANNING AND REGENERATION (FORMERLY HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, SALISBURY DISTRICT COUNCIL).

JS welcomed the Guest Speaker and Mr Thorne thanked the Association for inviting him to speak.

Chairman’s note: The text of Stephen Thorne’s talk runs to 5 pages and I’ve arranged for this to be edited down to a suitable size to include in the Minutes and this will be added to the Minutes in time for their inclusion in the Assn’s Autumn 2009 Magazine.

In answer to a question from the floor (Denis Riley), concerning his predecessor, TS advised that PW was a skilled operator and if applications were within the rule of law then they would be approved and the Inspectorate are only implementing the policies of government.

Cllr Deas stated she was much encouraged by Mr Thorne’s approach and would look forward to being able to meet him.

Ian Walker asked if Cllr Stribley had influenced the Council’s decision on engaging Mr Thorne. TS advised no, he had been interviewed by a panel of 8 people and cross examined by each one.

Denis Riley wanted JS to accept blame for his unwanted intervention in the Luscombe Valley meeting at a cost to the Association of £4,000. JS advised that he heard what Mr Riley had to say and that he had attended the meeting as a private person and not on behalf of the Association and as previously stated he would be attending a meeting to discuss this.

William Mutlow asked Mr Thorne what his stance was with regard to retrospective planning applications and enforcement in terms of building regulations and development. TS advised that a retrospective application has to be treated as a fresh application. They are not considered criminal offences and are within the law whereas listed building and tree preservation are in a different category. On enforcement, unfortunately it is not easy and has to be in the public interest and if there is nothing wrong with the project it would be wrong to waste public money where it turns out to be perfectly within the law.

Stan Alfert raised the point that people do not know about an application that may affect them until it is too late, i.e. the house next door might get a letter but there is no notice posted so that the people opposite would be unaware of any project that may affect them. He pointed out that in particular people in Lakeside Road were unaware of the development of flats.

ST advised these were in accordance with the 1992 regulations but agreed that we need to clarify where we notify those close to the development.

Kevin Goldstein Jackson noted that the applications only had a scale of 1:100 and it was not possible to determine heights of buildings in relation to the trees shown on plans and asked if anything could be done about this.

ST replied that distances from boundary to boundary and heights are given but was not sure about heights and would investigate this on his return to the office.

In answer to a query from Ben Hurley on enforcement, TS said this must be in the public interest but invited him to come in and see him personally or a member of the team. In answer to BH’s query about flooding, TS said that he has set up a meeting with his opposite number in the Environment Agency in order to achieve consistency.

JS then invited Mr Robert Syms, MP to say a few words.

Mr Syms thanked Mr Thorne for his impressive talk and welcomed his approach and where he saw the future of the Borough of Poole. He appreciated that there had been a problem with attracting the necessary expertise and that possibly with the current downturn there may be an opportunity to attract people from the private sector into the public sector. With regard to enforcement, he felt that the value of development, particularly in parts of Poole, would have to be recognised by Parliament and raise the fines accordingly. Currently developers go ahead happy to pay the meagre fines imposed.

8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

JS advised that the cost of the Local Authority Notice Board planned for the outside of Canford Cliffs Library, had risen from £599 to £1050? And this would be discussed at the next monthly meeting.

JS wished to thank John Gunton for the magazine and special thanks to Oliver and Annie May for their contributions on display in the refreshment area of the church hall.

John Gunton advised that the Association had reserves of £32,000 and although it must be borne in mind that funds must be kept for legal costs, he felt that the Association could use say £5000 to go to projects within the area – such as tree planting and he asked if this met with general approval. There was agreement to this and JG said that any suggestions would be welcome – if possible to come along and discuss at the next monthly meeting.

Cllr Deas referred to Cllr Stribley’s recent letter in the press. It was reported she had been brought the council into disrepute by interrupting a Planning Committee meeting and had been suspended from the Conservative Group. CD had been trying to assist a resident who was badly treated and felt it her duty as a Councillor to interrupt the meeting. The Chairman had put a different spin on this and although suspended she is still a Councillor. At the hearing yesterday, they had no choice but to accept the truth and accepted there were extenuating circumstances. CD hopes that the truth will come out and that she was only acting in the interests of the residents.

Denis Riley wished to acknowledge all the work the Chairman did for the Association but wished to wished to state that the Chairman’s email following the hearing of the Luscombe Valley Group had cost the Association £4,000 in donation and in another £50,000 to the donors involved. Did the Chairman appreciate what he had done? JS advised DR that he accepted that he had sent the e-mail but that he had clearly not understood the implications. He will be meeting with the LVG as previously advised. He wished to state, however that he had attended the Court Hearing in a personal capacity and not on behalf of the Association and that the Association was not involved.

John Gunton wished to express his appreciation of the work the Chairman did for the Association.

9. REFRESHMENTS

There being no further questions, the Chairman closed the meeting at 12.00am and invited members to stay for refreshments.

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE & WARDENS MEETING

HELD ON 8^TH APRIL 2009 at 7.30pm

IN THE LOUNGE, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

Terry Stewart President

John Sprackling Chairman

John Defty Treasurer

Keith Alcroft Planning Officer

Stan Alfert Data Protection Officer

John Gunton Magazine Editor

Val Short Minutes Secretary

Cllr Mrs Carole Deas Ward Councillor

Cllr Mrs May Haines ditto

12 Members/Wardens

Welcomes: JS welcomed Cllr Mrs May Haines and all those present, especially any present for the first time. Cllr Mrs Carole Deas also joined the meeting a little later.

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES (11 MARCH 2009)

Apologies: Bob & Phyllis Young

Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 11 March 2009.

2. MATTERS ARISING :

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported that…

1. Quayside (former) Dolphin Quays development – No further developments

2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – ditto

3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto

4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – JS has, at last, received a copy of the 26 week Planning Performance Agreement (PPA) and was advised on 23/03/09 that the Development Team were just entering Week 8. JS said that he would set out the actions for the remaining weeks in the Minutes.

Week 9
– Public exhibition held
– Members updated necessary following the public exhibition
– Terence O’Rourke (TO’R) to circulate summary of comments from the public exhibition
– Architects (EPR) to amend scheme if necessary following comments from the public exhibition
– EPR Issue final drawings
– Hyder update
– TO’R to produce supporting planning statement
– EPR to produce D&A (?Design & Access Statement)
Week 10
– All material for submission to TO’R
– Application submitted
Week 11
– Application validated and and registered
– TO’R manage and monitor submitted application
Week 12 -19
– Formal consultation of statutory consultees
– TO’R manage and monitor submitted application
Week 20
– Case officer to summarise main comments received to date and to confirm the heads of terms for any legal agreement
Week 21
– Joint development team review meeting to discuss consultee comments and heads of terms

– TO’R circulate minutes of meeting

Week 22 -23
– Case officer to prepare report to committee
– TO’R manage and monitor submitted application
Week 24
– Case officer to prepare published report to committee
– TO’R to prepare presentation to committee
– Committee – officer’s report published
Week 25 -26
– Application to Planning Committee committee

– TO’R to provide any outstanding information order to get the decision notice issued
– case officer to notify the applicant team the Committee decision and or any matters that need to be resolved before a decision notice is issued
‘ Once outstanding matters have been resolved, legal decision notice to be issued and agreement to be signed in an agreed time-scale
Week 27
– End of 16 week determination period

5. Old Orchard House. 39-61. High Street – No further developments

JS reported that the Frequently Asked Questions about the 2^nd Harbour Crossing have now been posted on the BoP website. The link is<http://www.boroughofpoole.com/go.php?structureID=categories&ref=C49B92A281F38B> JS said that he had been under the impression that this would include the answer to the question regarding the costs incurred to date in relation to the overall cost of £37.5m (Taken from Summary Report of the Audit Commission’s Report ‘Full Sail Ahead ‘Borough of Poole Audit 2007-2008′ published in February 2008). JS said that just before he left home for tonight’s meeting, he had received a note from the Head of Legal & Democratic Services to say that ”the information that you seek is already in the public domain in a number of reports, in particular, report to Council last December.”

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

Flat 6, 20 Flaghead Road (Requirement for obscure-glazed glass) – MH advised JS on 24/03/09 that “the obscured glazed window was fitted over the weekend. Mr & Mrs Smith are very pleased that there is now closure on this case.

Fitzmor Homes Ltd sites at 49 & 49a Haven Road & 7 Balcombe Road & 18

Balcombe Road (Oversize ‘For Sale’ board) – The flags and advertisement board at 49 & 49a Haven Road have been removed.

75 Canford Cliffs Road – Enforcement Notice re the formation of an unauthorised vehicular entrance subject to ‘Written representations’ Appeal

(APP/Q1255/C/08/2086204) Date for Final comments was 24/12/08

Progress re Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendations & Meeting with Residents’ Associations on 25/03/09 –

Sir Michael Pitt’s Report – JS reported that target dates for Recommendations 1, 3, 4, 5 & 6 is May 2009 and for recommendation 2 is June 2009).Roy Pointer reported on the meeting with Residents’ Associations; repesentatives on 25/03/09, chaired by Cllr Mrs Ann Stribley, Chairman of the Planning Committee, attended by Stephen Thorne, Head of Planning & Regeneration, Peter Watson, Head of Planning Design & Control Services, Michael Garrity, Senior Planning Officer and approx 30 residents.

The Core Strategy for the Local Development Framework has now been amended and adopted following the Inspector’s report on 19^th February and can be viewed on the Council website.

The threshold for affordable housing has dropped to 6 dwellings (with benchmark target of 40%). The inspector’s recommendation for renewable energy generation is 10/20% of energy needs – it was not made clear what this actually means.

The Spatial Strategy calls for 10,000 new homes (500 pa) by 2026 and the creation of 13,700 new jobs in Poole. The focus of most development will be in areas which are currently developed and have existing business development. Revitalising the town centre includes 35,000 sq m of retail development and the relocation of the bus depot and a new bus station.

Flat development can continue on streets or parts of streets where flats predominate, but with added conditions restricting hard surfaces and avoiding loss of gardens and trees.

Residents within areas which they consider as having special character and are not part of existing Conservation Areas, may wish to ask for these to be included in the draft Site Specific policy document, which is due for Pre-submission public participation in Oct/Nov 2009, with formal submission in Feb 2010.

MH mentioned ‘Placechecks’ and said that she would send the website link to JS – see Chairman’s note below..

Community Infrastructure Levy is being introduced payable by developers. This is an extension to existing Section 106. “Community infrastructure” can be wide ranging, but more information is needed to understand this properly.

RP then referred to Peter Watson’s presentation on ‘Issues raised by participants’

Enforcement – PW said that where more than one enforcement unit is involve, one unit should take lead on the complaint but this may not then get priority wished for by the complainant.

Third Party Challenges – PW said that the fact that residents don’t like the decision is no reason to challenge.

Communication and Notification – Since Sept 2008, new consulting procedures have been put in place and residents on other side of road are now notified. Yellow notices only apply in Conservation Areas. Letters of objection are not acknowledged, but can be viewed on the BoP Planning Application website.

JG asked if you have objected before, will you be notified again if any change?

Chairman’s Note: At the meeting, the answer given was ‘No’ which is correct if it’s simply amended plans but original objectors will be notified if it’s a new application.

Consistency – Every proposal must be considered on its individual merits and in accordance with the Development Plan. Conditions may be waived once impact is known – Sometimes overlooking windows can only be tested once the building is completed

Retrospective Applications – PW said these can be made – law says so

Private/Public Interests (Party Wall Act and Covenants etc) – The Local Planning Authority cannot get involved as these are matters outside the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act.

Appeal Costs – These can now be claimed in all classes of appeal – by both sides

Tree Protection – PW said that trees need to be protected and don’t expect sympathy if you buy in to a treed plot!!

Houses in Multiple Occupation – The Government are currently consulting in this area. JS said that this is a problem in the area covered by Talbot View Residents’ Assn.

Stephen Thorne announced that he is setting up a Consultation Working Group with 6 representatives of Residents Associations throughout the Borough. JS reported that the provisional date for the first meeting is 13 May 2009 at 14.30.

RP concluded by saying that there were 101 issues raised by participants at the meeting, but too late in the evening for much discussion. Lots of questions did not have time to be raised. Stephen Thorne will be at the Assn’s AGM, so hopefully this will be an opportunity to put questions then.

Chairman’s note: MH has copied me in to the note below from Nigel Jacobs of the former Strategic Planning Services Unit dated 18/07/07 and also the link to the

Placecheck website <http://www.placecheck.info/> for the Placecheck ‘pro-forma’.

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“…a placecheck provides evidence of particular features of a place, this may be important features such as trees, equally it can identify areas for improvements or where change could help facilitate improvement to an area. In essence it is an audit of a defined location. Remember this is about place not individual buildings.

It is therefore a body of evidence that can be used to inform discussion about a place and changes that may be proposed. In time it may inform a policy approach and more detailed guidance that is set out in supplementary planning documents. On its own, it

does not and cannot have the same weight as a policy or adopted SPG (Supplementary Planning Guidance) but it can provide the context for consideration of a planning application and its findings can then be discussed with relevant bodies to inform appropriate future policies for an area.

The placecheck can therefore support existing policies through a more detailed analysis of a location, acting as a piece of research that could aid the decision making process, whether this be by the Council or in an appeal situation.

What placecheck is not is an anti development tool but a positive tool to ensure that where change happens that this change has regard to those features of importance through involving local residents.

Often when residents are objecting to development they fail to look at the wider context of the street looking narrowly at the individual application. Placecheck allows for residents to think about the wider locality i.e. what is the pattern of development, scale of buildings, relationship between buildings and spaces. Having undertaken this work and providing it is objective it can provide a single point of reference for all within the given location.”

Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences: No further developments.

Council Tax 2009/10 & Financial Monitoring report: JS said that he normally provide William Mutlow with a copy of the Council’s Financial Monitoring Report but the latest report for the period 01/04/08 to 28/02/09 is not due to be presented to the Cabinet meeting until 14/04/09.

William Mutlow referred to Cllr Leverett’s letter to residents in the latest issue of ‘Poole News’ and quoted the following two extracts…

“Reduced planning applications and land fee charges, together with the fall in interest rates, will cost the Council £2.2m next year. In addition, there is an increased call on our services as more people apply for Council Tax and revenue benefit. We must also provide an extra £1.7m in Adult Social Services to support services for older people. Our costs have risen too with extra waste disposal charges, including a significant increase in landfill tax.

…However, in order to deliver our usual services we need to increase Council Tax by 4.8% this year.”

WM referred to an article in the National press in February which said that wage increases in public sector were 3.5% compared to 1.5% in the private sector. Cllr Leverett’s reference to ‘usual’ services may not be affordable in the current financial climate.

Statement by Cllr Mrs Carole Deas – Carole Deas asked if she might address the meeting and JS agreed. CD referred to her recent expulsion from the Conservative Group and one of the reason was for voting against the 2008/09 Budget. At the Council meeting considering the budget in February 2009, CD & Cllr David Gillard had voted against on this single issue, as a matter of conscience, in view of the disastrous economic downturn facing the country.

At the Assn’s last meeting. CD had referred to increases in members’ allowances of up to 67%, CD had been challenged about this read from a table of Special Responsibility Allowances awarded to 21 members in the Borough of Poole in 2008 (see table below), some of which were postponed until April 2009.

Three Conservative Councillors had voted to abstain when these increases were put tothe vote in 2008. on the basis it was an inopportune time in a period of financial

restraint.

CD believes the figures have been misrepresented to avoid the true implications of inflation-busting increases.

Roy Pointer asked about the reason for the increases and CD replied that there had been”some increase in some responsibilities”. JS said that the increases had been agreed by the Independent Remuneration Panel but CD alleged that the Panel initially recommended no increases and they were asked to reconsider the matter.

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Increases in Councillor Special Allowances

Nos Benefiting 2008/09 2007/08 % Inc

Above Inflation Increases
Portfolio Holder 8 10707 8325 29%
Overview/Scrutiny Chair 6 4283 2498 71%
Planning Chair 1 8566 4163 106%
Con Political Gp Leader* 1 4283 3331 29%
LD Political Gp Leader* 1 4283 2931 46%
17

Minimal Increases
Council Leader 1 21415 20813 3%
Deputy Council Leader 1 12849 12488 3%
Licensing Chair 1 4283 4163 3%
TAG Chair 1 2570 2498 3%
4
* Political Group Leaders also get an additional £50 per group member

.

Poole Partnership: JS reported that he will be attending a Steering Group meeting on 22/04/09.

Lindsay Road to Station Road Corridor/Speeding: No further developments.

Canford Cliffs Village & proposal to plant trees in Haven Road: KA reported that a meeting between officers, scheduled to take place this afternoon, didn’t take place. KA said that the officers’ latest concern is about car doors, etc banging into trees. KA informed the officer that the Canford Cliffs Land Society AGM and the Assn’s AGM, which are due to take place shortly and he would like to be in a position to give an up-to-date report on this matter.

Bella Rosa – MH reported No progress at moment. The owners were going to submit application for clear surround but it had been made clear that that this had previously been refused. No planning application yet. MH will try to get hold of the Enforcement Officer.

Chairman’s Note: MH has since copied me in to a note from the Enforcement Team Leader dated 09/04/09 which reads “an Enforcement Notice was served today on the premises with one month for compliance unless an appeal is made before that date.”

Public Rights of Way:

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – nothing new to report.

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – SA said that it will be one year in May/June since relevant application was submitted and he is still waiting. It was agreed that SA should ‘chase’ on behalf of Assn between now and end of June

Bessborough Road – nothing new to report.

Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to set up a small Sub-Committee to look at this. JS said that TS had kindly provided him with two useful publications issued by the Charity Commission.

Canford Cliffs Chine: MH said that she still waiting to hear from the Head of Leisure Services.

BPCCRA Spring 2009 Magazine & AGM (02/05/09) – JS thanked all those responsible for the collation and distribution of the magazine and said that all the preparations have been made for the AGM on 02/05/09. JS said that if anyone has any question which he/she may wish to put to Stephen Thorne, in advance of the meeting, please let JS know.

Fossilised tree discovered at Branksome Chine: KA reported that the fossilised tree is to be erected on a plinth with explanatory notice at Branksome Chine to the left of the Beach Office beside canoe lifeguards station.

3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

KA reported…

Land adj 1 Over Links Drive (Sever land and erect a new detached house(Revised Scheme) – Letter of objection registered on behalf of Assn on 03/04/09.

36 Links Road (Demolish part of existing bungalow and erect 2 storey house. Demolition of remainder of existing bungalow after completion of new build) – Letter of objection registered on behalf of Assn on 08/04/09.

11 Leicester Road Outline application to demolish existing dwelling and associated outbuildings. Erect a 59 bedroom care home, bin and cycle store and associated parking (15 spaces) with some matters reserved) – Application to be determined by Planning Committee on 16/04/09. The Officer’s recommendation is to ‘Refuse’.

7A Bury Road (Demolish existing and erect replacement 2 storey dwelling with basement (revised scheme) – application refused on 18/03/09.

14 Nairn Road (a) Demolish existing bungalow and erect a four storey 6 bed house – Subject to Appeal Hearing (APP/Q1255/A/09/2094445). Date for final comments was 25/03/09.

(b) Demolish existing bungalow and erect a four storey 5 bed house. (Revised

Scheme) – application refused on 18/03/09.

Judicial Review Hearing re 1, 2 & 3 Alington Close & 2a & 2b Shore Road (Demolish existing and erect 6 x two/ three storey blocks comprising 32 flats with basement car parking, accessed off Alington Close and associated works and landscaping) (Amended scheme) – The Judge accepted Ground 1 – The summary of the reasons for granting permission was inadequate. The reasons were not spelt out sufficiently but there was no objection in principle to the development and the failure was of limited scope and application and the Judge used his discretion to dismiss the claim.

The Council’s deputy Barrister asked for costs of £33,000, but following a challenge by the claimant’s Barrister, Justice Sales accepted that the amount claimed appeared excessive and ordered a reduction to £22,000. The shortfall of at least £11,000 will have to be met by Council Tax payers but the exact shortfall will not be known until the Solicitors, Sharpe Pritchard submit their final bill.

SA reminded those present that, although we contributed £4,000, we are not committed to any further costs.

1 Alington Close, 2a and 2b Shore Road (Demolish existing properties and erect six detached houses with detached and integral garages, with single access from Alington Close) – Application refused by Planning Committee on 26/03/09.

Other current planning issues

Victoria School, 12 Lindsay Road (Erect modular classroom building comprising 3 classrooms, entrance hall and toilet facilities) – .Letter of objection lodged on

behalf of Assn on 01/03/09.

2 Tower Road (Conservation area application to demolish existing dwelling & erect 3 detached dwellings with associated parking) Application registered 17/12/08.

Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Assn on 23/01/09. If the officers are not minded to refuse this application under delegated authority, this will be decided by the Planning Committee at a date yet to be announced.

Land adj. 2 Mornish Road (Conservation area application to erect a 5-bed detached house with integral garage, access from Mornish Road (Revised scheme) – Application subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/09/2098623)

Date for final comments is 29/04/09.

20 Balcombe Road

(a) Demolish existing and erect 3 detached houses. As amended by plans received15/09/08 – Application subject to Planning Inquiry (APP/Q1255/A/09/2093512). Date

for final comments was 16/03/09.

(b) Demolish existing dwelling and erect 5 no. 2 bed apartments. As amended by plan received 11/09/08. – Application subject to Planning Inquiry (APP/Q1255/A/09/2093513). Date for final comments is 09/03/09.

16-18 Durrant Road (Demolish existing and erect 2 blocks of 6 flats (12 total) with single linked basement garage) – application granted by Planning Committee on 17/04/08 and subject to complaint by local residents to Local Government

Ombudsman (LGO). The LGO’s provisional findings received on 08/11/08 were that the Council did nothing wrong but final decision is still awaited.

Canford Cliffs, Promenade 2 (a) Construction of 18 new beach huts) – ApplicationNo: 08/24380/005/F & (b) Conservation Area application to demolish 8 beach huts (nos 99-106) adjacent to Canford Cliffs Chine. Application No: 08/24380/007/U The applications were registered as long ago as 22/01/08 &13/02/08 respectively. MH

will keep the Assn advised of any further developments.

19 Sandbourne Road (Demolish existing and erect 5 apartments over 3 storeys with basement parking and associated cycle and bin store) – Amended plans lodged on 11/12/08.

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.

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 SOUTHERN POOLE CHAIRMENS’ LIAISON GROUP MEETING (30/03/09) – TS reported that, following Sir M Pitts’ recommendations, the Group has written to Poole’s Chief Executive seeking an improvement in relations between Residents’ Assns and the Council.

The group received a presentation from Bernard Merna, the owner of Compton Acres who claimed that hotel will not be visible from anywhere except Lilliput Road. It is likely that Mr M will reduce the number of apartments from seven to five to avoid having to make an Affordable Housing contribution. Mr M said that there were very few days when car park is full. The number of visitors has been declining despite spending tens of £1,000s on improving gardens. TS reminded those present that if Compton Acres were to go bankrupt, the Council will then take ownership of the Gardens.

5. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JD reported that funds at the end March were £34,150 – less magazine cost £2,500, offset by advertising income coming in.

6. ANY OTHER BUSINESS –

Big Green Fortnight (Friday 15th May – Sunday 31st May 2009 – JS said that he’d been asked by Tony Hamilton of Agenda 21 if he would promote this event. JS will distribute a note about this with the Minutes.

Canford Cliffs Play Area – MH reported that funding has been approved. Canford Cliffs Land Society will match funding. Postponed but hoping for Spring next year.

Pinecliff wildlife trail – JS is advised that this project is still ongoing, the sculptor who is making the wooden animals is being chased by on of the officers in Leisure Services and the Council intend to have it completed by the summer holidays.

Parkstone, Penn Hill & Canford Cliffs Safer Neighbourhood Partnership – JS reminded members of the Public Meeting on Wednesday 22^nd April from 6-7pm at the Sandbanks Hotel, Banks Road, Poole.

Lindsay Road/Station Road corridor – WM has written to Transportation Services for pelican crossing at junction of Penn Hill Ave and Spur Hill Ave. as people already finding it difficult to cross and it will become more so as progress is made with proposals to improve the Lindsay Road/Station Road route as a Prime Transport Corridor. WM said that an assessment is to be made.

Double Yellow Lines on Woodside Road – WM said that, at the Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill Area Committee meeting on 04/02/09, as a result of suggestion from Cllr Mrs Stribley, it was recommended by the Traffic Panel to impose No Waiting 8am-6pm

Mon-Sat restrictions in Woodside Road. There was no discussion on this item.

Chairman’s Note: The proposed Traffic Regulation Orders were due to be advertised as part of the 2008/09 programme.

Use of Assn’s Capital Reserve – JG referred to the fact that the Assn had £32,000 or so ‘in the kitty’ and asked if we need this amount. JG suggested that we ask for suggestions at the AGM as to how to spend some of this, e.g. £5,000.

Date of next Meeting: The next meeting is the AGM on Saturday 2^nd May 2009 in

All Saints Church Hall, Western Road, Branksome Park at 10.30am

The next monthly meeting will be on Wednesday 10^th June 2009 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)

JS closed the meeting at 8.35pm.