Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District December Agenda

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

AGENDA

 

For meeting at St Aldhelms Meeting Room, Wednesday 13th December 2017 at 7.30pm

(access via Lindsay Road)

 

  1. Welcome and Apologies.
  2. Minutes of November meeting.
  3. Matters Arising.
  4. Beach Road Car Park.
  5. Dangerous footpaths
  6. Planning Applications.
  7. Accounts to date.
  8. AOB.

 

 

The meeting will be followed by Seasonal Refreshments and everyone

 

is invited to stay on for this.

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk          email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

 

ROBERT REID

MINUTES OF MONTHLY MEETING HELD WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2017

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

MINUTES OF MONTHLY MEETING HELD WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2017

 

PRESENT

Bob Reid              Chairman

Carol Parkin        Secretary/Minutes Secretary Mike Parkin                   Membership Secretary Dugald Eadie (DE) Planning Officer

 

Approximately 27 members and wardens

 

The Chairman welcomed those present.

 

APOLOGIES

Cllr. May Haines, Chris Stracey, Paul Fearnley; Treasurer, John Gunton; Magazine Editor, Roger Allen; Vice Chair & Advertising, Stan Alfert, Helle May, Bert Neo,

Alison Veale, Dawn Goodson, Julie Reid

 

MINUTES OF MEETING HELD OCTOBER 11 , 2017

 

Chris Stracey pointed out that he wished to clarify that regarding Beach Road Car Park, attempts were made to overturn the covenant on Blake Dene Road, but they were unsuccessful.

 

MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES.

 

There were no matters arising from the minutes of the October meeting.

 

BEACH ROAD CAR PARK

 

The Chairman updated that following our last meeting, we did seek advice from a solicitor to help with our opposition to the development of the Beach Road car park. The Lands Tribunal have instructed the Council to contact people owning land within 200 metres of the site to give them the opportunity to raise objections with the Upper Chamber. The period for objections was for one month., expiring on the 11th. The association continues to support the objections, but objections, at the moment, will have to come from those contacted.

John Sprackling, (JS) on behalf of the Association had sent a question to the council as follows:

 

  1. It is noticed that the Council proposes to fit height restrictors to the entrance to Sandbanks car park to prevent oversize vehicle entry.Beach Road car park has been affected in the same way. Why is the Council not proposing to fit restrictors in the same way to the entrance to Beach Road car park?

 

A (Cllr John Rampton, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Open Spaces)

 

There is no such proposal from the Council. There is a recommendation from the Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee to look into the feasibility of CCTV and some kind of lockable gating

 

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Robert Reid

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

system at the entrance to Sandbanks Car Park, as Cabinet will discuss later tonight when we reach that agenda item. This, of course, was prompted by a particularly challenging incident involving Travellers last year. Unlike Sandbanks Car Park, Beach Road Car Park is usually unmanned, though still requires access by large vehicles.

 

There will be several decisions tonight on the general theme of hardening, prevention and management of unauthorised encampments around the Borough and I see no reason why Beach Road Car park should not be included in the more holistic view we intend to take.

 

JS fears that we shall still be in the same position next year.

 

DANGEROUS FOOTPATHS

 

The Chairman observed that around Balcombe Road and Burton Road the footpaths were not cleared of pine needles etc., last year. More pine needles have fallen now, and the footpaths are quite dangerous and slippery. The footpaths are also shared with a cycle track which is indistinguishable. The Chairman asks why are these not cleared every year. As we have no Councillors present at the meeting to address this question to, BR will contact the Council directly.

This matter was discussed generally. Overhanging branches being an obstruction was also discussed. JS said that he would provide an e mail address to contact.

 

POOLE MARITIME FESTIVAL

 

It transpired that even though this event looked to be a success, it was not for the Council as their loss was approximately £200,000. JS reported that nevertheless the same event will be held next year, with no budget.

 

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

 

DE reported on one particular Planning Application, in which a bungalow on Ettrick Road is going to be demolished and replaced with another bungalow with a larger footprint. The sceptics feel that this may be the first attempt for approval of a larger footprint, and then there will be a further application.

 

Planning Application and Decision lists for Meeting 8 November 2017 List 44 included

 

APPLICATIONS APP/17/01531/P 26/09/2017 6 Pinewood Road.

Following refusal of previous application, new one for block of 5 flats to replace bungalow. BPCCRA has objected, also some neighbours. Bizarre “support” from chairman of Sandbanks Association.

 

APP/17/01470/P 18/09/2017 1 De Mauley Road.

Demolish existing house and replace with 3 storey block of 8 flats. No objections yet. APP/17/01157/F 23/08/2017

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

Robert Reid

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

1-5 Lindsay Road

McCarthy & Stone proposal for 37 retirement apartments to replace 3 bungalows. Advance consultation has already taken place. 18 letters, including at least 3 “approvals”. Objection from BPCCRA. Evidence that applicant does not realise implications of Conservation Area.

 

APP/17/01114/F 15/08/2017 43 Western Road

Replace existing 5 bedroom house with three blocks of flats (10 in total) Difficult to see how this can be justified in Conservation Area (existing house is listed in Poole Council documents) . 26 objections Dover Road residents quite active, objection from BPCCRA

 

APP/17/01164/F 9/08/2017 1,1A Canford Cliffs Avenue

Demolish existing bungalow and erect two 4-bed detached houses. See comments on 5 Canford Cliffs Avenue below. 4 objections from immediate neighbours, particularly concerned about impact on road, which has a cultivated central reservaion. Also a complete change to the style of the properties. Withdrawn on 12 October 2017 new application expected with revised plans.

 

APP/17/01084/P 25/07/2017 19 Canford Cliffs Road

Demolish garage and erect new detached house, creating new entrance where there is an existing pedestrian gate. As usual. This will increase the density of housing. No objections so far. Red card applied by councillor -says applicant has “democratic right” to decision by committee.

 

APP/17/00962/P 13/07/2017 2 Mornish Road

Demolish existing house and replace with single dwelling. No objections.

 

APP/17/00997/F 10/07/2017 5 Canford Cliffs Avenue

Demolish existing house and replace with 2 detached houses. 8 letters of objection appears to be a threat to the whole stretch of land to Widdicombe Road. Several neighbours say that there are “covenants” which should prevent this.

 

APP/17/00785/F 13/06/2017 11 Martello Road South

Demolish existing house and erect block of 14 flats. This is an expansion of the existing approved plan for 9 flats. On 28 July 2017, Robert Syms MP wrote to the Chief Executive of Poole Borough Council to object to this proposal. There are some amendments to the plans.

 

DECISIONS

 

APP/17/01005/FF 3/07/2017 2A Martello Park (Martello Lodge)

Increase existing approved 4 storey block to 5 storeys. Refused 13/10/2017

Refused due to impact of extra height on neighbours, also above tree line, further increase in congestion.

 

APP/17/01070/P 20/07/2017 9 Martello Road South

Demolish existing bungalow and replace with three dwellings.

 

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Robert Reid

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

Refused 20/10/ 2017

Refused by Planning Committee. Development of three houses to replace a bungalow not consistent with the style of Oratory Gardens.

 

APP/17/00206/F 15/02/2017

Alterations, extensions and conversion of existing house to form 4 cluster houses with new vehicular access, parking and bin storage.

Refused 23/10/ 2017

Refusal letter makes rational analysis of why this application is unacceptable. Too cramped, no facilities for all the extra cars.

 

ACCOUNTS TO DATE

 

The Chairman reported that the accounts are still very healthy. We currently have £31,499.58p in the account.

BR has copies if anyone wishes to see them.

 

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS.

 

Sajid David has now given the OK for a Unitary Council, however Christchurch are still fighting against this.

 

JS provided the latest information about the proposals for the Beach Huts on the Promenade.

 

Pf

 

Location Project Status Update
Shore Rd Block 8 Refurb 6 + add 6 new huts   Planning Permission

 

pending

 

Block 1

 

Refurb 12 + add 12 new huts

   

In feasibility & design phase

 

Promenade

 

Enhance public realm & facilities inc. new kiosk and water sports concessions

 
 

Flaghead Chine

 

Promenade

 

Add 4 huts + enhance public realm

   

In design phase

 

Branksome Chine

 

Promenade

 

Improved public realm + enable land train phase

   

In feasibility & design phase

 

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

Robert Reid

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

Branksome Dene Chine Promenade Add 4 new huts   Planning Permission granted
 

Canford

 

Cliffs (W)

 

Pavilion

 

New café, refurb toilets & improve public realm

   

Planning Permission

 

granted On hold

 

following cliff slip.

 

Block I -11

 

Rebuild 45 existing +

 

add 37 new

 
Blocks 12 & 13 Rebuild 102 existing, add 89 new + refurb 4 huts.  
Canford

 

Cliffs (E)

Blocks 14 & 19 Rebuild 45 existing +

 

add 37 new

  Withdrawn
 

 

 

 

The refurbishment of the toilet block near Cliff Drive and turning the shelter into a café has been approved, but is being held up because of the land slip.

 

JS People may have seen yellow notices about various footpaths in the woods. There is no need to worry as these footpaths are going to be put on the definitive map.

The footpath in Forest Road is still closed.

 

The Chairman asked if there is still a problem with abandoned vehicles. There are still a couple, but one is on a private road.

 

The Chairman thanked those responsible for the distribution of the magazine.

JS said that he still has a bundle for Western Avenue and Pinewood Road which have not yet been collected.

There have been many positive comments about the magazine since its changes.

 

The Chairman confirmed that the Association had between 2,500 and 3,000 members, including those in blocks of apartments.

 

 

The meeting closed at 8.30 pm

 

The Next Meeting is on the Wednesday 13th December and will conclude with seasonal refreshments

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

 

Robert Reid

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association October Minutes

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

Minutes of the Meeting on 11th.October 2017 at St Aldhelms Meeting Room, Lindsay Road at 7.30 p.m.

 

 

Present                Bob Reid              Chairman

Mike Parkin        Membership Secretary Roger Allen                      Magazine Advertising Dugald Eadie                     Planning Officer

Cllr May Haines Cllr Mohan Iyengar

Approximately 20 members Apologies and Welcome

 

The chair welcomed new members/ visitors, the two Ward Councillors, and noted apologies from

 

John Gunton, Magazine Editor.

Carol Parkin, Secretary and Minute Secretary. Paul Fernley, Treasurer.

Stan Alfert, Dawn Goodson, Andrew Kileen, Steph Stevenson.

 

Minutes of September Meeting

The minutes were accepted as a true account of the last meeting.

 

Matters Arising

There was an update on the illegal incursions of Travellers in Car Parks since it was discussed in Parliament. John Sprackling had heard the debate on TV and thought that our MP Robert Syms contributed well but regretted R.S. did not inform local people whom he represents, beforehand that the debate was going to take place. It was felt that it is at Parliamentary level that solutions to this difficulty can be solved. A member thought the time freed up by Brexit could be used to change Legislation on the rights of Gypsies and Travellers.

 

As Steph Stevenson was not able to attend the last meeting to present the work being carried out in the Canford Cliffs Forum the chair welcomed her colleague Victoria Edwards to the meeting and invited her to present the ideas and plans which have been drawn up to date.

V.E. informed the meeting of progress including the Tesco application. Which M.I. confirmed is going ahead but no actual date to start work on the empty shops has been announced by Tesco.

V.E. showed some display boards of proposed plans for the road improvements, including benches, possible 20 mph speed limit and the planting of small ornamental trees.

The Association is supporting the plans and the bid for funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy, CIL. The chair agreed that the Executive would consider an actual financial contribution to assist the CIL bid.

The chair thanked V.E. for her time and the presentation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

ROBERT REID

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

Abandoned, illegally parked vehicles, anti-social behaviour.

The Chair saidthis has become an increasing problem and where somevehicleswhich are lived in used to park at the end of Western Road they have moved to more residential areas due to the Parking Meters. JS confirmed that the two vans had been removed. M. H. informed that the occupiers of some vehicles had been offered alternative accommodation but could not be forced to take it.

JS thought the main reason for slow action lay with the Driver Vehicle Licencing Agency not having the capacity to take quick action.

A member (Adrian) knew of a vehicle which was left for 6 weeks even after it had been reported. R.A. pointed out that other people get booked very quickly so that should happen to all illegal or illegally parked vehicles.

When people live in them this is more difficult.

 

Beach Road Car Park

The chair reminded members present about the plan to build on the Beach Road Car Park which was first announced in a Draft Development Brief published in November 2016.

Roy Pointer updated the meeting on progress with the Association’s objections. RP explained that objection had been made at all stages:

•    Car park underuse due to poor signage, when on-road parking was proposed; •  Car park needed to support the seafront strategy for Poole beaches;

•    Council’s Proposed Development Brief in Jan 17;

•    Inclusion in the draft Local Plan revision (site A11);

•    Inclusion in the Pre-submission of Local Plan (site U8) to the Planning Inspectorate.

 

In the last case we have requested the opportunity to represent to the Inspector in person. That will be towards the year-end or early next year.                                 Regret that the Council Cabinet persists with its development proposals despite significant and continuing objection from residents.

Council now seeks relief from the onerous covenants attached to the site and has sought ‘commercial confidential’ protection from sharing information.                               We have used FOI Requests to both Council and Justice Dept. as a result, we now understand that:

 

•    Council has applied to Justice Dept. for covenant relief;

•    Council has been instructed to consult with owners/occupiers of land within a 200m radius of the site;

•    Council proposes to place Notices in Echo and at site on 13th October giving details of its request to Justice Dept.

 

We knowthat when the car park proposal was included in theDraft Local Plan consultation, it received one of the largest numbers of responses of all the sites. Of the 62 responses, 53 were against, the remaining 9 were equivocal. Nevertheless, the site was carried forward to the eventual plan with a suggested scope for around 60 dwellings.

Association proposes to continue to object and seeks the support of Members to do so.    Detailed strategy will be discussed at meeting of the Steering Group early next week.

 

Chris Stracey expressed his outrage that the council are attempting to overturn the covenants. He thought the Association should take legal advice on the council’s proposal as it affected more than the people living within the 200 metres of the park.

He referred to the case of Blake Dene Road where a site had covenants overturned.

 

 

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

ROBERT REID

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

He suggested the hidden agenda of the council has been to keep this carpark difficult to find by poor signage and overgrown just to give the impression it is no longer viable. Like the Beehive Pub which was allowed to be rundown. He thought the whole handling of the car park was a “scam”.

He suggested the association notify everyone and pointed out that many consultation meetings take place during the working day.

He felt very strongly that the car park should remain.

Adrian thought that the BPCCRA should find out from other Associations if this is happening to them and warn them.

The council owns the land, but it is not known how the land was transferred without changing the covenants.

C.S. Said there is a strong feeling that the council is ignoring local opinion and ride roughshod over our opinions and don’t care about what people feel.

There was discussion on what legal advice might cost and it was agreed unanimously that the BPCCRA could seek legal advice up to £3,000 to defend the covenants and retain the Car Park as it is.

R.P. Reminded the meeting that once these notices are issued there is a time clock running. D.E. felt our main purpose is to look after covenants on our boundary areas.

Once permission is granted there will be a release fee and covenants being released is not new.

M.I. explained that the council must save a huge amount of money and while we want to protect our interests that he and the other two ward councillors are only 3 of the 42 councillors and Canford Cliffs ward will be affected by the cuts in some way.

He pointed out that anything that is non-statutory for the council may be cut, such as The Lighthouse, Street Maintenance, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Libraries.

He thought it would be hard to make the case for retaining the car park as it is when development would still leave 140 spaces which could be improved and of a high standard.

C.S. said this is another example of why this area is no longer attractive to tourists.

R.A. said the reality of life is that the council is under colossal pressure as explained my M.I. and there would still be 140 spaces.

Many agreed that the council tax should be increased to pay for the services we want and that most people would be happy to do this. There were several comments on the top rate of council tax not reflecting the properties not worth several million pounds and blocks of flats are paying a greater share than the more valuable houses on large plots of land.

R.P. remarked that if the council was business and was consolidating in the merger with Bournemouth and Christchurch there would be the ability to save a considerable amount of money.

M.I. Reminded everyone that the council has commitments to their workers who have pension rights and union representation. And we are waiting for the Secretary of State to confirm that the mergers can go ahead although some services are already sharing and combining between Bournemouth and Poole.

M.H. reminded us the delay has been caused by the election and events such as the Grenfell Tower disaster.

Planning Applications

 

 

D.E. The Planning Officer, Drew the meetings attention to those which were new or were of concern. APP/17/01531/P                               26/09/2017

6 Pinewood Road.

Following refusal of previous application, new one for block of 5 flats to replace bungalow. No objections yet.

 

 

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

ROBERT REID

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

APP/17/01470/P                               18/09/2017 1 De Mauley Road.

Demolish existing house and replace with 3 storey block of 8 flats. No objections yet.

 

APP/17/01005/F                               24/08/2017 2a Martello Park (Martello Lodge)

Increase existing approved 4 storey block to 5 storeys. Neighbours in South Lodge, having accepted the original plan, are not happy with the extra floor. All blocks around that area are 4 storeys. Red card is expected. Over 20 objections, including BPCCRA.

 

 

APP/17/01157/F                               23/08/2017 1-5 Lindsay Road

McCarthy & Stone proposal for 37 retirement apartments to replace 3 bungalows. Advance consultation has already taken place. 18 letters, including at least 3 “approvals”. Objection from BPCCRA. Evidence that applicant does not realise implications of Conservation Area.

 

APP/17/01114/F                               15/08/2017 43 Western Road

Replace existing 5 bedroom house with three blocks of flats (10 in total) Difficult to see how this can be justified in Conservation Area (existing house is listed in Poole Council documents). 26 objections Dover Road residents quite active, objection from BPCCRA

 

APP/17/01164/F                               9/08/2017 1,1A Canford Cliffs Avenue

Demolish existing bungalow and erect two 4-bed detached houses. See comments on 5 Canford Cliffs Avenue below. 4 objections from immediate neighbours, particularly concerned about impact on road, which has a cultivated central reservation. Also, a complete change to the style of the properties.

 

 

APP/17/01070/P                               20/07/2017 9 Martello Road South

Demolish existing bungalow and replace with three dwellings. Further increase in density of housing in this area. Main objection from neighbour in Oratory Gardens, worried about overlooking windows and impact of basement construction. Now going to October Planning Committee meeting.

 

APP/17/00997/F                               10/07/2017 5 Canford Cliffs Avenue

Demolish existing house and replace with 2 detached houses. 8 letters of objection appears to be a threat to the whole stretch of land to Widdicombe Road. Several neighbours say that there are “covenants” which should prevent this.

 

APP/17/00785/F                               13/06/2017 11 Martello Road South

Demolish existing house and erect block of 14 flats. This is an expansion of the existing approved plan for 9 flats. 4 letters of objection, but note that residents already tried hard to prevent original application, and will probably do less now. On 28 July 2017, Robert Syms MP wrote to the Chief Executive of Poole Borough Council to object to this proposal. There are some amendments to the plans.

We will be objecting to this application. DECISIONS

 

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

ROBERT REID

 

Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & District Residents’ Association Founded 1958

 

 

 

 

APP/17/00957/F                               3/07/2017 19 Wilderton Road

Demolish existing house and erect block of 6 flats. Refused                                                                22/09/2017

Refused due to several issues, including parking, bin collection, pedestrian access, not suitable site for flats. Simply not appropriate for Conservation Area.

 

APP/17/01069/F                               20/07/2017 109 Lilliput Road

Replacement of existing house with block of 3 flats, with flat roof including pond and seating area. Refused                                                                5/10/2017

No objection to concept of flats, but actual proposal is not consistent with the rest of the road.

 

 

Community Working Group meeting held on 27th September.

 

The chair explained that he has attended the last two meetings of this group at the Civic Centre and gave a brief account of some of the discussions which had taken place. He pointed out that the minutes of the AGM were available, and the September ones were due soon.

He asked if someone would like to take over representing BPCCRA on this group as he did not have time to attend. They are quarterly and D.E. agreed to consider attending on our behalf.

 

 

As there was no Other Business the meeting closed 9.15 pm.

 

 

The next meeting is on the 8th November

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobile 07531357938          Landline 01202 761380

Web: pinesandchines.co.uk         email bob.reid.BPCCRA@gmail.com

 

ROBERT REID

Branksome Park Canford Cliffs Residents Association September Meeting

September Meeting

Our September meeting is on the 13th September at St Aldhelms 7.30pm

  • We will be following up on the incursions of Travellers.
  • Saying Good Bye to our President.
  • Being updated on current planning applications.

The Minutes of the July meeting and the Agenda for this meeting are on our website   http://www.pinesandchines.co.uk/about/comittee/  and they are also published on our Facebook Group.

Minutes of May Meeting and Agenda for June 2017 – Branksome Park Canford Cliffs Residents Association

Minutes of monthly meeting held Wednesday May 10, 2017,at 19.30 at St.Aldhelms Lounge meeting room

PRESENT             

Bob Reid              Chairman
Carol Parkin        Secretary/Minutes Secretary
Mike Parkin        Membership Secretary
Tracy Holmes     Planning Officer

APOLOGIES                      

Apologies were received from Roger Allen, John Gunton,  Paul Fearnley, Cllr. Mohan Iyengar,  Cllr. May Haines, who said she would be a little late.  Dawn Goodson.
There were 15 Wardens/members also present.

The Chairman welcomed those present and was pleased to see some new members.

MINUTES OF THE MARCH 2017 MEETING

The minutes of the last monthly meeting were accepted as a correct record.

MATTERS ARISING

The AGM which was held in April was well attended.  Refreshments were provided by Tesco.
The format of having more speakers who gave shorter talks, with no Q & A as they were available after the meeting during refreshments for any questions, was welcomed.  The principal speaker was going to talk about the plans for Haven Road in Canford Cliffs Village, but she was unable to attend at the last minute.

Closing public toilets in Poole

Although the public toilets in our area have not been closed there has been strong local feeling
regarding this issue.  There has also been national media attention.  One of the main reasons for the local objection to this Council plan, is that it will have a negative effect on tourism.  There will be no public toilet facility at the Sandbanks ferry area nor in Baiter park.  Stan Alfert feels that if there is no action or comment by the Council it should be recorded that there was adverse publicity as a result of these toilets closing.  At this point Cllr. May Haines joined the meeting.  She told the meeting that  a Press Release will be issued by the Council in the next two days.  She went on to say that there have been positive talks between the Council and local businesses in keeping some sort of facility open.  It was decided to leave things at the moment until the Council’s press release was examined.

JS asked if the Council were ‘in purdah’ on the subject of the closure of toilets, and Cllr MH replied that they were not, as far as she is aware.  Dougald Eadie asked if closing the toilets meant a saving of £100K why could the residents not pay for it, as this is a relatively small amount of money in the grand scheme.  It was pointed out that most of the  money used would be for servicing the toilets each year.  SA suggested that there could be a charge for the use of the toilet, in order to pay for themselves.  A member said that the Branksome Woods Tennis Club’s lease requires them to provide toilet facilities.  There is no notice there, nor is it on the BoP website.  Cllr. MH recognised this and replied that the website needs updating.  A member asked if the toilets could not be supported by local businesses, giving them publicity.  The Chair replied that this, and asking sports clubs, is the sort of thing that is being investigated at the moment.

Beach Road Car Park

This was discussed at the AGM in April.  There were over 100 people in attendance, and of these about 80% thought there should be no building at all on the car park and about 16% thought it would be acceptable to develop part of the car park  but some of those thought it should community based building.

Roy Pointer noted that the road parking in Western Road for portions of both sides had been signed off by the Portfolio Holder.
RP reported that AGM vote on the future of Beach Road car park had been taken from the 125 members present as follows:
Retain and improve the car park – 85, develop the car park – 16 of which 6 recommended community use.  The result meant that the Association would seek to convince the Council that the car park not be developed.

Following concern from members that the Covenants to Beach Road car park be enforced to prevent development, Cllr Iyengar had agreed that we should meet with legal and other officers at the Council; we were looking to set that up shortly.    We would also be representing in the Local Plan process that the car park (Site A11) be removed from the Plan prior to its adoption for recommendation to the Secretary of State.

Man in the Woods

Cllr. MH reported that the camp in the woods is no longer there. JS suggested that the Council remove some of the undergrowth which ought to help for the future.  Cllr. MH said that she would put this request to the Council.  JS reported that the car with no MOT certificate is still there.  Cllr. MH said that this is a police matter.

RECENT CAR CRIME/BURGLARY

The Chairman reported that there had been a spate of car crime and attempted burglaries around the Tower Road area.  This is a warning to residents not to leave their cars unlocked.

Pinecliff Gardens, Canford Cliffs Library

Pinecliff Gardens is now up and running again after the winter break, and there are new volunteers.
We have spent money on tools, which are now stored in the Library Store.  The Chairman appealed for new volunteers to help with gardening on a Thursday morning when the main group meets, or a Tuesday when some people are there.  Any help would be very welcome.

Our Planning Officer, Tracy Holmes, stepped down at the AGM, but she has prepared the
Applications which have come through since then.

PLANNING REPORTS

4 Brackenhill                      Demolish existing house and garage and construct two semi detached
Dwellings.   There have been 11 letters of objection.

12 De Mauley Road         Demolish existing semi detached dwellings and erect two replacement
Detached houses.  No overall objections by residents.

14 Pinewood Road          Partial demolition of building and construction of two-storey rear
Extention to convert to 6 apartments and semi detached houses.
There have been continued objections to the scheme and amended
Site plans have been submitted.

Decisions

5/7 Chaddesley                Demolition of existing buildings and construction of two blocks of
Glen                                      four apartments.
Grant

4 St.Clair Road                   Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of four bedroom
Replacement dwelling.
Grant

11 Martello Road             Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of 3-storey block of
South                                    9 flats.
Neighbourhood opposition to the scheme.
Grant

10 Nairn Road                    Demolition of existing dwelling and construct two replacement
Dwellings.
Some objection letters received
Grant

ACCOUNTS

We still have £31,580.
There will be some expenditure for Pinecliffe Gardens.  The budget for this year has not yet been set.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

The Chairman reported that he gets a lot of letters and e mails about the Haven Hotel and the plans for Sandbanks.  As this is not in our area the Chairman is reluctant to ‘step on the toes’ of another Association.  SA feels that although this is not our area, the Association should express firm views that these plans are not acceptable.

There was much discussion on this – traffic problems, Poole’s amount of tourism trade with a loss of Hotel beds etc. Mr. Eadie pointed out that it was a difficult problem for the owner, as he maintains the hotel is no longer viable.   Cllr. MH said that there was no net loss of hotel beds because of the way the application had been worded.  She also thinks that this application will not be decided quickly as there are many factors involved.
JS said that a lady in Sandbanks is setting up an action group to fight this application, with the help of lawyers from London.  JS wonders whether we should have a representative at their meetings.
It was suggested that we offer our support to the Sandbanks Residents’ Association and perhaps invite Ken Sanson along to our next meeting to talk about these plans and what sort of help he requires.  Any resident can oppose the plans if they wish.

As there was no further business the Chairman closed the meeting at 8.30.

THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY JUNE 14, 2017 

Agenda for June 14th 2017 at 7.30 pm.
To be held in the Lounge meeting room of St. Aldhelms Church (accessed from Lindsay Road).

Welcome and apologies.
Minutes of the meeting on the 10th May 2017.
Matters arising
Planning Officer
Planning List
Tesco in Canford Cliffs
Licenced event on Canford Cliffs beach.
Haven Hotel
Accounts
A.O.B.
Our next meeting will be on 12th July 2017

Minutes of March – Branksome Park Canford Cliffs and District Residents’ Association

Minutes of monthly meeting held Wednesday March 8, 2017, at 19.30

PRESENT                              Terry Stewart                    President
Bob Reid                              Chairman
Carol Parkin                        Secretary/Minutes Secretary

Cllr. May Haines and approximately 30 wardens and members.

APOLOGIES                       Cllr. Mohan Iyengar, Mike Parkin, John Gunton, Paul Fearnley, Roger Alan, Dawn Goodson, Alan and Libby Bentall, Ken Sanson, Tracy Holmes.

The Chairman welcomed those present and was pleased to see some new members.

MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 2017 MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as a correct record.

MATTERS ARISING

Parking Charges Update
RP reminded members that the Association had objected strongly to the full metering plan on the grounds that:

  1. It had been overwhelmingly rejected by residents.
  2. No evidence of congestion had been offered by the Council
  3. No complaints of lack of parking or congestion had been received by the Council.
  4. No regard had been given by the Council to the availability of off-road parking ie Beach Road car park.
  5. The scheme was to cater in part for the 25 years Beach Development Plan and was therefore premature.

The Council had now reduced the impact of the Branksome Park/Canford Cliffs portion down to the East and West sides of Western Road.  Following the advertised Traffic Order to which we had also objected, metering of the East side of Western Road, adjacent to Beach Road car park had been agreed on Monday March 6.  Proposals to meter the West side of Western Road had been withdrawn to enable a new Order to be advertised for a reduced length between Pinecliff Road Junction and the Southern boundary of No. 9 Western Road, to which we also object.

RP will now discuss the possibility of requesting a formal review of the Council’s decision with the Executive, and remind the Council that we shall still object to any metering on the West side of Western Road, even for the reduced length now proposed.

Closure of Public Toilets
The Chairman attended a call-in meeting. There was quite strong opposition to closing the toilets, especially in Baiter Park but despite this the decision was that the toilets would be mothballed.  John Sprackling commented that the closure of the toilets at the ferry to Studland was very important as during the summer when there are long queues for the ferry there will be no provision for a public toilet.   There was discussion about the various ways community toilets could operate, but generally this is not finding favour with Traders, with some places even having notices that their toilet facilities are for customers only.
There was a question as to exactly how much money was being saved in the council budget by closing toilets.  Cllr MH pointed out that as well as the maintenance costs to the Council, some toilets would need upgrading. TS suggested that CIL money could be made available for this.
Cllr Haines assured the meeting that all options were being looked at and suggestions would be welcome.

Beach Road Car Park Update.

RP reminded members that at the presentation to the meeting in December there were mixed views from the members as to the desirability of the Council developing the car park and he had reported accordingly to the Council in response to the consultation.  It would be helpful for the Association to give the Executive a more definite view and he hoped that there may be time to take soundings at the forthcoming AGM.  In this way the Council would be of no doubt as to the views of the members on the future of the car park, in the context of the review of the Local Plan due for consultation this year.
Tony Beale is currently researching old covenants on this area.  He is ill at the moment and we wish him a speedy recovery.

Canford Cliffs Beach Shelter.

The Council plan is to turn this into a cafeteria/restaurant with extra beach huts built above it, and to demolish the current ice cream kiosk.  At our last meeting there was a question as to whether the Council had made a business plan.  When this was enquired into, the Council replied that a Business Plan is not needed to submit a planning application.  Cllr MH had no knowledge of this.  The meeting is questioning whether this plan is viable.

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

5 Ormond Road                Planning Application for alterations and extensions to convert existing house
Into 4 ‘Cluster Houses’ with new vehicular access, parking and bin storage.
There is a lot of neighbourhood opposition to this.
Nick Robinson, from 11 Chester Road gave the meeting his objections to this plan.  He currently lives in a flat which has been converted very sympathetically with the area.  This Application would massively affect the street scene and undermine the integrity of the area.  ‘Cluster Houses’ is a euphemism for flats.  The adjacent houses have already disclosed that they intend to convert and extend the properties into more ‘cluster houses’.
This would mean more traffic with all the attendant risks.  Mr. Robinson feels that the Council should apply ‘Affordable housing’ in a responsible way.
If the planning application for 5 Ormond Road is passed it will set a precedent.  He feels that Poole Council displays a lack of responsibility by not maintaining this area in a sympathetic way; litter, fly tipping etc., and that this area needs to be preserved.  He encourages everybody to look at these issues – Mr. Robinson’s e mail address can be obtained from the Chairman.
Cllr MH said that she agreed with everything that has been said and was originally responsible for having this area designated a Conservation Area.
She will have very strong views to put forward to the Planning Committee.
She advised Mr. Robinson on the best way to put his objections to the Planning Committee.
There was general discussion on the Planning that has been allowed by Poole Council.

4 Brackenhill                      Demolish existing house and garage.  Construct two semi-detached houses.  Eleven letters of objection have been received.

10 Nairn Road                    Demolish existing dwelling and construct two replacement dwelling.  Some objection letters have been received.

11 Martello Rd. South    Demolish existing dwelling and erect three storey block of nine flats.  There is neighbourhood opposition to this scheme.

12 DeMauley Road          Demolish existing semi-detached dwellings and erect two replacement detached dwellings.

14 Pinewood Road          Partial demolition of building and construction of two-storey rear extension to convert to six apartments, and semi-detached house.  Continued submissions objecting to this scheme.  Amended site plans submitted.

Decisions.
6 Newton Road                Demolition of existing building and construction of two semi-detached dwellings.
This has been Granted.

ACCOUNTS

There is currently a sum of £32,467 in the account.
The Chairman was pleased to report that the funds raised from advertising in the Spring
Magazine almost covers the cost of production of the magazine.  Roger Allan, who is responsible for
advertising in the magazine had reported that this is going extremely well.
Copies of last month’s accounts are available if anyone wished to take a copy.

CANFORD CLIFFS COLLECTIVE MEETING

The Chairman reported that he attended a meeting last night of the Canford Cliffs Collective
Group. This has been set up to improve the appearance of Haven Road through the Village.
Carol Parkin also attended the meeting as she currently lives in Canford Cliffs.  She reported that
Steph Stevenson who owns the hairdressers, HNB, on Haven Road is leading this group.  Steph has
quite a few ideas to invigorate Haven Road.
These include       Holding a yearly festival – Oyster and Champagne, in September, to be organised
by a company who run all kinds of festivals all over England.
Flag poles for the walls of shops where Christmas trees, flags etc. can be displayed.
Heritage Lighting installed.
Ornamental pear trees provided to shops and business to display in tubs outside
their premises.
A defibrillator could be installed in say the Post Office area.

Funds raised from the festival would be used to improve the appearance of Haven.
This should increase footfall.

All these ideas were agreed in principle.

There was an idea to have a website, but this was shelved for the time being and  social media could be used to promote the village.

The Chairman was asked a question as to the current situation of Tesco moving into the empty shops in Haven Road.  At the Collective meeting, Matthew Robson from Poole Council had said that he expected a Planning Application to be put in imminently by Tesco.  The Chairman expected that when Tesco move into Canford Cliffs they will inject money into helping improve Haven Road.

There is a rumour that Tesco on Sandbanks will close, and if this is the case, it could be that trade in Canford Cliffs increases.

There was discussion on parking in Canford Cliffs.

TS asked Cllr MH what the Council intend for the use of Section 106 money that is still outstanding.
Cllr Haines replied that she would make enquiries.

Steph Stevenson will give a short presentation on the plans for Haven Road at our AGM in April, and it is hoped that Matt Robson and Adrian Trevett from Poole Council will come along too.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Nick Robinson asked Cllr MH for a contact at Poole Council to contact in relation to Fly Tipping.
Cllr MH supplied this.

JS asked about ‘the man in the woods’.  This man appears to be living in a den in the wood.  Cllr MH will report this to the Council.

There will be no monthly meeting in April as our AGM will be held Saturday 22nd  April.

The meeting closed at 8.45 pm

BPCCRA Meeting Agenda – March 8th

Agenda for March 8th 2017 at 7.30 pm.
To be held in the Lounge meeting room of St. Aldhelms Church (accessed from Lindsay Road).

 

  1. Welcome and apologies.
  2. Minutes of the meeting on the 8th February 2017.
  3. Matters arising
  4. Update on Parking charges and parking meters.
  5. Closing of the public toilets
  6. Beach road car park update on consultation.
  7. Canford Cliffs Beach Shelter result of enquiries.
  8. Other Planning reports
  9. Accounts
  10. Canford Cliffs Co-operative meetings.
  11. A.O.B

Minutes of February Meeting

The Next Meeting will be our AGM the 22nd April in Canford Cliffs’ Village Hall at 10.30 am.
There will be a presentation and refreshments afterwards.

Minutes of February Meeting – Branksome Park and Canford Cliffs District Residents Association

Minutes of monthly meeting held Wednesday February 8, 2017,at 19.30

at St Aldhelms Church Lindsay Road in the Lounge Meeting Room.

PRESENT                             

Terry Stewart                    President
Bob Reid                         Chairman

Roger Allen                     Vice Chairman

Carol Parkin                        Secretary/Minutes Secretary

Tracy Holmes                     Planning Officer

Cllr. Mohan Iyengar and approximately 25 wardens and members.
APOLOGIES                       Cllr. May Haines, Mike Parkin, John Gunton, Paul Fearnley, Dawn Goodson, David Mauleverer, Charles Boyle, Linda Brook, Martin Heath, Christine Blake, Julie Reid.

The Chairman extended a welcome to those present.

Minutes of the January meeting
The Chairman pointed out that Cllr. May Haines had emailed that it was not just the Civic Centre reception area which was planned to be refurbished, but the whole Customer Services reception, of which 77% of customers surveyed had said was not fit for purpose.  Since the last meeting the whole scheme has been scaled back, and we shall be looking at the new scheme.

With this correction, the minutes of the January meeting were approved.

Matters arising
Apart from the above amendment there was no other matters arising

Parking Charges.

The Chairman gave the latest update on the raising of parking charges.

The feedback has not just been from residents, but also from traders who will be affected by these charges and fear that they will lose trade.  Saying this, the Chairman went on to say that he felt the Council were not going to go back on this decision.  JS pointed out that this had been approved at last night’s Cabinet Meeting.   TS said that the charges most affecting our area are the increases to the fees charged at the car parks in Canford Cliffs and Pen Hill which have doubled.

RP commented on the other issue affecting our area – namely the proposal to install parking meters at the bottom end of Western Road.  There was a proposal by the Council, last year, to install numerous parking meters in our area, and this has now been scaled back to the area between Martello and Pinecliff Road.   RP feels that if parking meters are installed in this area, it could open the floodgates and parking meters will be installed in the other areas which were originally proposed.  This is the main reason the Assn. will object to this proposal.  The first area of objection will be the Consultation.  The second will be that the Council have stated that it will relieve congestion.  The Assn. does not feel that there has been any congestion in this area and it is not sufficient grounds for installing parking meters.  The third is that the reason for installing meters is when there is no off-road parking in the area.  As there is a car park close to this area, it is not felt that this is sufficient grounds for parking meters.  The last reason for objecting is that the Council are proposing to allow for possible congestion when the whole beach area has been redeveloped, and the Assn. does not believe that they can quantify this need at the present.
The members present showed their support of this objection by a show of hands.

Beach Road Car Park

The Council’s proposal is to sell half of Beach Road Car Park for development, and this will put extra pressure on on-road parking – namely Western Road.
When Nick Perrins, from the Council, presented the Council’s proposals for Beach Road Car Park at our December meeting, the views of those present were not overwhelmingly against this proposal.
There are a number of covenants on this land, and one from 1931 states that nothing should happen that could cause annoyance or disturbance to neighbouring residents.  This may be a reason that could be used to restrict the proposal, although it is rather vague.
Once again the issue of the signage for Beach Road car park was raised.
RP says that we ought to get a feeling for the issue of what will happen to Beach Road Car Park at our AGM in April.
There was a show of hands of those objecting to selling off part of Beach Road Car Park for development (i.e. Flats). There were eight votes objecting to selling off for development of flats.
Next there was a show of hands of those objecting to selling off part of the Car Park for a Council-run resource such as a nursing home.  There were no objections to this suggestion.
RP has suggested this to the council.
RA suggested that a care home may not be viable in the light of the number of closures of care homes across the country, and indeed in our area.
Mike Wrigley asked why, Dorset council had the amount of a reported £330M sitting in reserve as reported in the Echo, this was deemed ‘untouchable’.  JS commented that there is a sum of £6M of un-earmarked reserves, the rest is earmarked. He has a breakdown of the whole £68M.

Closure of Public Toilets

The Chairman asked if our Assn. should be objecting to the closure of public toilets as most are no in our area.  There was a general opinion at the meeting that we should be, if only as residents of Poole.  The most important closures are those at the Ferry and those in Baiter Park.
There was much discussion on this matter.  One member pointed out that as we are a tourist area, there ought to be adequate provision for visitors.  RA suggested that the toilets on the green in Ashley Cross could be re-developed as a café, with a proviso that they maintain toilets for public use. This is something he has seen in practice in other areas.

Planning Applications
4 Brackenhill                      A further application to demolish existing dwelling and erect semi detached house.  One objection has been received.

10 Nairn Road                    Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of two replacement dwellings.  Letters of objection received.

11 Martello Road South                         Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of three-storey block of nine flats.

8 Dornie Road                    Demolition of existing dwelling and erecting two houses. Neighbours are objecting to this scheme.

2 Dornie Road                    Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of two houses with garaging.  Currently this scheme is supported by neighbours.

12 De Mauley Road         Demolish existing semi-detached dwellings and erect two houses with garaging.  Currently there are no objections.

6 Newton Road                 Demolition of existing building and erect semi-detached dwellings.   Continued neighbourhood objections.

14 Pinewood Road          Partial demolition of building and construction of two-storey rear extension to convert to six apartments and semi-detached house.
Continued objections to scheme as the extension is considerably larger to that originally proposed. This property is no longer being used as an HMO.

12 Pinewood Road          The Chairman has seen a very strange bin store which can be seen from the road.  This is a conservation area.  The original plan was to have the bin store somewhere else, but it was moved and an amended plan was put in.  This was unnoticed by the Council and the Chairman believes there Is going to be a review of this.
Decisions.
1 Beaumont Road            Demolition of existing building and construction of three detached houses. Grant
11 Leicester Road             Erect two four bedroom detached houses.  Grant
A member brought up the subject of ‘land banking’.
TS replied that the Government is now proposing that if Planning Permission has been given and building has not begun after two years the Planning Permission will be withdrawn.  He believes that there are eight brown field sites in Poole that do not have any Planning Permission and currently there is nothing that can be done about this, as the Council do not have sufficient funds to carry out compulsory purchase.

Canford Cliffs Promenade Shelter

This is currently being used by the beach lifeguards as a store.  Behind this shelter are public toilets and to one side is a beach café/kiosk.  It is proposed that this is developed as a restaurant, extra beach huts are built on top and the kiosk is demolished.
The Chairman asked for comments on this plan.
The first comment was that the only access to this site was down a chine (which isn’t lit) and there is no car parking.
RP asked if a financial plan has been carried out by the Council to ascertain that this is viable.  RA asked who would carry out the development; the Council or a developer?
TS proposed that the Council be asked formally for their financial analysis of all the building costs and revenue to see if this is viable.
JS said that he would send a copy of the minutes of the Beach Hut Association’s AGM to the Chairman in order that he can see exactly what is proposed for the beach area. For instance, the promenade will be closed between Canford Cliffs and Flaghead Chines from September 4, 2017, whilst the work is being carried out.
Accounts
The Chairman and Vice Chairman had a meeting with the Treasurer and have made some proposals for next year’s budget to be agreed by the Executive and agreed at the AGM. The annual accounts are ready to be signed off.

Any other business
The Chairman explained that he had been invited to meetings with Mandy Payne from the council who set up meetings with residents and traders to improve Canford Cliffs Village Some positive ideas have been put forward at the meetings which are now carrying on since MP left the council.
Tesco are putting in plans for the four empty shops and will be moving in when planning goes through.  At our AGM we shall have a presentation from Steph Stevenson from HNB the hairdressers in Canford Cliffs who is involved in the working party.    RA suggested that BPCCRA could give a donation to the Traders to help with any plans they have.

The Chairman reminded the meeting that the Neighbourhood Watch AGM will be held on Saturday February 11, at Canford Cliffs Village Hall.
Planning Enforcement
JS reported that the Council proposes to save money by merging Planning Enforcement with the Enforcement sections of Environmental & Consumer Protection Services & Transportation Services.
Planning Enforcement is not a Statutory requirement but Poole has a dedicated Planning Enforcement team which was formed just over 10 years ago, and a Planning Enforcement policy. JS proposed a resolution that members do not wish to see any further diminution of the Planning Enforcement team.  This was unanimously approved by a show of hands.

Spring Magazine
The deadline for the Spring Magazine is the first week of March, and copy for the advertising the end of the first week of March.

RA reported that advertising for the magazine is sold out and income from the advertising is £2,000 for the Spring Magazine.  It is hoped that Tesco will take up advertising in the future.

NHS
TS appealed to members to respond to the reorganisation of Dorset NHS which has some worrying features, such as the closing of the Poole Hospital A & E, stroke and heart attack units, and moving them to Bournemouth Hospital.
Please see the website  www.dorsetsvision.nhs.uk or e mail to ask for copies of the brochure involve@dorsetccg.nhs.uk or telephone 01202 541946.
The deadline for response to the Consultation is February 28, 2017.
The number of mental health beds at St. Anne’s Hospital, Canford Cliffs is increased from 67 to 94.
TS’s main concern is whether there is adequate funding for the Dorset changes, considering the current crisis in the NHS.

Fly Tipping
Jan Wilde wished to point out that the McCarthy & Stone site on Tower Road is now being used for fly tipping, since the hoardings blocking the site have disintegrated with time.  The Chairman said that he would contact McCarthy & Stone to let them know and ask if it is their responsibility or the Council.

The meeting closed at 8.40pm.​

Minutes of January Meeting – Branksome Park and Canford Cliffs District Residents Association

Minutes of the monthly meeting held on Wednesday 11th January 2017 at 7.30 pm.

Present Roger Allen (RA)              Vice Chair

Terry Stewart (TS)                           President

May Haines (MH)                     Ward Councillor, Deputy Leader Conservative Group

Mohan Iyengar (MI)                  Ward Councillor, Conservative

10 Wardens and Members

Welcome and Apologies

Bob Reid Chair, Carol Parkin Secretary and minute secretary, Mike Parkin membership secretary, Paul FernleyTreasurer, John Gunton magazine editor,
ChrisStracey, Tracy Holmes, Martin Heath Julie Reid.

Roger Allen opened the meeting at 7.30 as Chair and Minute Secretary combined.

Minutes of the meeting 14th Dec 2016

The Chair explained that the Secretary Carol Parkin was unwell and hadn’t been able to write up the minutes as normal. Bob Reid had prepared the shortened version that was presented to members for approval. Terry Stewart proposed their adoption which received unanimous support.

Matters arising
Parking issues were to the fore and in effectthe discussions moved straight onto item 4 on the January agenda.

Item 4: On Road parking charges, latest update, raising parking charges
MH didn’t have the information as what the rise in parking charges would be but confirmed that BOP will be conducting a benchmarking exercise with other authorities.
TS said it was unfortunate that the detail was only notified three days before and that all traders were objecting. TS went on to say that town centres are facing big challenges with business retail shops closing and more charity shops opening. We have a marketing team to promote the town centre and raising car park charges is counterproductive to their work.
MI said that the decline of Poole town centre goes back many years with contributory factors being high rents and the rail line which crosses the pedestrian thoroughfare. He pointed out that BOP is investing £3.5 million and Legal & General’s contribution brings the total investment up to £10 million. This represents a huge investment and BOP has to balance the books.
StanAlfert (SA) asked if the new charges would be higher than Bournemouth. MH replied that the benchmark exercise would determine this. She went on to say that BOP would be funding the repairs to address the structural problems of the car park over WH Smith. SA expressed concern that if parking fees are raised to high there could be an actual loss of revenue as well as a negative impact on the businesses.
TS identified that parking fees in district car parks are doubling. TS said that he would conduct a research study and produce a matrix of current car parking fees against proposed increases.
MH and MI made the case strongly that BOP is facing a funding crisis. RA suggested that BOP could put forward a matrix for increases in community charge against services that would be saved etc. and then go out for a referendum. MH said that research shows the likely result would be a no to any increases above the cap and that the cost of a referendum at £120.000 is not affordable.

Item 5: Planning

Unfortunately our Planning Officer Tracy Holmes was out of commission after a riding accident, notwithstanding she kindly emailed a list of planning applications for discussion. RA read through the list many of which were new applications and some refusals. Please see Tracy’s Planning List which is a separate document attached.
The discussion centred on The HMO saga on Pinewood Road. The HMO is now closed. The owners have dropped plans to build a nursing home changing back to a block of flats and that application has now been changed to a bigger block of flats.
MH confirmed that she is monitoring the situation.
SA has concerns over the seemingly never ending situation at 4 Bracken Hill with applications for a larger house being refused and then going to appeal again and so on. The residents of Bracken Hill, some of which are members would like to see the RA backing a continual refusal of these out of character house designs.

Paul Fernley will be asked to check our memberships along Bracken Hill.
John Sprackling (JS) referred to the application at 8 Martello South where the
Planning Committee overturned an officer recommendation. JS and TS separately said that the committee overturns officer recommendations for refusal quite often and in so doing totally ignores the BOP Core Strategy. JS agreed that he would review the history of officer recommendations being overturned by committee. SA said that this part of the world appeared to overturn more decisions than was the norm.

Items 6 & 7 Plans for the Civic Centre reception and the closure of public toilets
These two items were discussed at the same time as the public and the press have linked the cost of remodelling the reception with the savings to be gained by closing public toilets.
MH opened the discussion by saying that there is no statutory requirement for BOP to provide public toilets at all. Her view is that the Civic Centre reception and cash office are very dated. There are issues around client confidentiality which would be improved if there were private interview facilities. And that advances in technology mean that a cash machine could be installed to receive payments and for those troubled by using such a machine help and support would be on hand. The saving from installing a cash machine would be in staff costs, and that redundancy costs had been factored into the calculations. The cost of for the work would be £216,000 of which £150,000 would come from existing budgets. The cost of maintaining the toilets earmarked for closure would be £72,000 and it wouldn’t stop there. The toilets in question are old and out of date and would in reality require capital investment to keep them going as well as scheduled maintenance. MH referred to the “Pay Back” of the costs for the reception project which would come in over a number of years.
RA asked if the project had actually been approved in principle, how the socalled “Pay Back” works as there isn’t actually an income stream being invested in and just because there is spare money in a budget shouldn’t mean it has to be spent on a project given the dire financial situation. MH replied that the pay back would be a result of savings on staff wages, and held to her position on the need for remodelling the reception justified the spend from existing budgets.
SA said that if the pay back was being calculated over a number of years and the building did become redundant in the relatively near future then the figures cannot be justified. The membership generally remained very circumspect over the perceived pay back. Roy Pointer confirmed his doubts over the pay back notion too and asked MH through the chair why they were intending to spend this money given the challenging financial situation if as the plan for conurbation develops the Civic Centre might well cease to be. MH stuck to her position that the reception is outdated and the work is essential.
In simple terms the general view at the meeting was that it’s not whether in an ideal world the changes that MH envisages should be carried out. Rather that the project should be delayed in the face of the move to form a conurbation which our council has now voted for. Following what had become an impasse between our Ward Councillor and the members.
Stan Alfet proposed a resolution as follows.
Discretionary expense that is not essential in the light of forthcoming prospects for change should be deferred for two years until we know more about future arrangements concerning the conurbation to bring Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch together and how this may affect Poole Civic Centre.
The proposal was seconded by Roy Pointer and carried with a unanimous vote in support.
It was agreed that TS would distribute the details of our resolution the following day.
SA asked for our disappointment over the closure of the public toilets to be
recorded. SA asked why BOP couldn’t look at the continental model for public toilets where prefabricated toilet pods are placed into public areas with a charge levied for use. RP mentioned that Wessex water have toilet schemes. RA said that in some areas toilet blocks have been sold for development as bars or cafes on the agreement that the operators will provide a public toilet.
MI said that he would he would follow up with BOP to explore business and
commercial opportunities with council WC’s. MH said that vandals inhibit
development of public toilets. SA said we should explore commercial options and not let vandals win the day.

Item 8: Beach Road car park
RP said that the date for submissions had been extended and he is crafting a
response accordingly. It was felt that the RA should be seen to be active where such a large project is being considered.
Item 9: Accounts
Copies of the 2016 accounts had been circulated. RA said that a late payment for advertising was now in which would bring the magazine within budget. The overall position remained much the same. It was mentioned that Sundries and Meeting costs were well over budget but other headings were either spot on or under.
It was suggested that the budget for 2017 should be reviewed to take account of the reality of sundries and that the budget needs to include likely costs for ad hoc meetings required during the progress of our various campaigns. RA said he would liaise with the Treasurer in this regard. RA thanked the Treasurer for his work.

AOB

TS referred to the report that made the claim that there had been a powerful
response to the consultation regarding the merger of Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch and asked MH if a response of 3% could be considered as such. MH responded that the data against norms suggest the response was good and there was little adverse comment. RP by 31.01.17 all nine Dorset Councils will have voted on their various plans for amalgamations.
Mike Wrigley asked a question of MH as to where he can find information on
regeneration projects.
Before closing the meeting RA thanked our Ward Councillors for attending and paid particular tribute to May Haines who had come under fire somewhat but had held her ground and made many valuable points. RA said that we all very much appreciate her hard work and dedication as a councillor.

The meeting closed at 8.45pm

Roger Allen
BPCCRA Vice Chair
13th January 2017

Agenda for Monthly Meeting 11 Jan 17

Agenda

For Monthly Meeting 11 January 2017 at 7.30p.m. in the Lounge, rear of St. Aldhelm’s Parish Church (access via Lindsay Road)

 

  1. Welcome and Apologies.
  2. Minutes of meeting 14 December 2016.
  3. Matters arising.
  4. On Road Parking Charges, latest update. Raising parking charges.
  5. Planning issues.
  6. Proposed Plans for the Civic Centre Reception.
  7. Closing Public Toilets.
  8. Beach Road Car Park.
  9. O.B

The next meeting will be on the 5th February 2017