Branksome Park Canford Cliffs Residents Association Meeting July 2014

MINUTES OF BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY 09 JULY 2014 AT 7.30PM IN ST. ALDHELM’S CHURCH

PRESENT: Terry Stewart (TS) President

John Sprackling (JS) Chairman

Wayne Hancock (WH) Vice-Chairman

Michael Parkin (MP) Membership Secretary

Keith Alcroft (KA) Planning Officer

Carol Parkin (CP) Hon Secretary

John Gunton (JG)  Magazine Editor

Cllr Mrs May Haines (MH) Ward Councillor

Cllr Peter Pawlowski (PP) Ward Councillor

Approx. 30 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES

JS welcomed those present, particularly, our two Ward Councillors and Mohan Iyengar, who is standing as prospective Conservative Councillor for Canford Cliffs Ward to replace Cllr Neil Sorton.

 

Apologies: Apologies received from Cllr Neil Sorton, Steve & Jen Cameron
(Party House Action Group), Martin Heath & William Mutlow
JS

 

Accuracy: JS said would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 11 JUNE 2014.

2. MATTERSARISING
Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update:
JS reported..

JS

Victoria Education Centre (Landscaping to the new entrance) No new JS developments

(Overhanging vegetation) – The overhanging hedging has

about allegedly excessive charges imposed by Continental Landscapes for removing branches blocking roads, following storm damage. The resident had been informed that this would be ‘at cost’ but had subsequently received a bill for £2,500. Residents would be best advised to ask for an estimate before agreeing for work to be carried out,

Community Working Group (CWG): Next CWG meeting to be held on 3
September 2014. JS said he would distribute the Minutes of last month’s
All meeting with the Minutes of this meeting.

TS reported that he had taken Steve Cameron (Party House Action Group) to this meeting. Steven Thorne was asked by TS to give the Council’s position on the matter of Party Houses. However, even though requested by TS, Stephen Thorne’s statement of the Council’s planning policy re Party Houses was not included in the minutes of this meeting.

  1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments
  2. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto
  3. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto
  4. Old Orchard House – ditto
  5. Land at West Quay Road ditto

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

31 Western Avenue

been cut back.

JS said that, although unrelated to this topic, he had been contacted by a

resident

Wednesday, 09 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

Council Budget Monitoring report: (2013/14): JS said that a 17 page update report on the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2014 to 2018 is being presented to the Cabinet at next week’s meeting with no Executive Summary. The current estimated Cumulative MTFP – Net Funding Gap is 2015/16 £5.0m 2016/17 £10.8m 2017/18 £13.5m

Public Rights of Way

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto
Footpaths 82/128 (at the rear of 48 Panorama Road to the small beach) – No new developments.

Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS reminded those present that the Royal Horticultural Society’s visit to the garden is to take place on 14 July at 11.30am.

Localism Act/Community Engagement: TS reported that two years ago the Government passed the Localism Act which encourages Councils to devolve power down to the residents of the electorate. Unfortunately nothing much has happened recently.

There has been a lack of communication from Poole Council down to the residents on a number of issues. For example, even though there have been four Council meetings on the subject of ‘travellers’, there has not been a single communication to the resident leaders who have been leading the campaign against the ‘travellers’. TS feels that there should be an onus on the Council that, where there is a major concern/ the results of Council decisions should be communicated to the residents.

There was a meeting with the Council Leader some five months ago, when she promised to have a meeting with residents to improve communication, but this has still not taken place.

Navitus Bay Offshore Wind Farm: Roy Pointer began by thanking all those who had taken the trouble to register with the Planning Inspectorate’s (PINS) website.

There have been 2,728 people who registered.

This is a record of the number of people who have registered against any windfarm. RP will keep residents apprised of the next steps. There was an article in the Bournemouth Echo when this was announced. Local Authorities now have to produce ‘Local Impact’ reports; PCBA is feeding in information to these. LIRs have to include all impacts that the wind farm would have on the locality; not just planning issues.

The next event will be a preliminary meeting called by PINS when the Examining Panel is appointed. They will be appointed by PINS and their job will be to examine the application by Navitus. The earliest date for the Prelim. meeing will be some time in August and all IPs will be able to attend.

As the Government have received a very strong message from UNESCO prior to the determination of the application, RP felt in no doubt that the status of the Jurassic Coast as a World Heritage Site would be lost should the project go ahead.

Road Safety concerns – Burton Road: No objections were received to the advertisement of the proposal to extend the yellow lines at the junctions of Balcombe Road with Burton Road. The yellow lines will be extended very shortly, and drivers should find it much easier to use the junctions once this has been done.

WM

RD

MH/WH JS/TS

IC/PT

Wednesday, 09 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

Sustaining Poole’s Seafront (Formerly Seafront Beaches Master Plan DPD)
& Proposal for On-Street Pay & Display on selected roads adjacent to TS beach areas:

A report from the Sustaining Poole’s Seafront Working Party is being presented at Monday’s Economy Overview & Scrutiny Committee and some of the key points to have emerged from the recommendations of the working party are:

  •   The purpose of the document should change from that of a financially driven response to the need to invest in the seafront to a strategy for the enhancement of the seafront based on the type of place that it should aspire to be.
  •   Caution has been expressed about adhering to the original ideas where they may actually compromise a more wholesale approach to redevelopment, for instance at Sandbanks.
  •   The provision of additional beach huts is accepted and would help to satisfy demand.
  •   Hotels are considered a more risky and volatile proposal and are not considered the most suitable option.
  •   The provision of a boardwalk between Shore Road and Sandbanks is favoured and it is considered that this should be provided in the short term.
  •   The watersports hub originally proposed to centre on Branksome Chine was considered more appropriate at Branksome Dene Chine
  •   Additionally off street car parking should be considered with the potential for a single deck multi storey car park at Sandbanks to be investigated.
  •   The Working Party is very much against the proposal to reduce the parking in Sandbanks car park, and they have recommended that additional car parking be provided at Sandbanks.
  •   The main ethos is that we move away from this ‘how we make money’ approach that the original plan had, and we need to protect our family oriented venue.
  •   The infrastructure needs to be improved or replaced as it is failing after so many years of use. Cllr. PP hopes that the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and then the Cabinet will back the working party. CP pointed out that the Council had paid an awful lot of money for a report by consultants who had little idea of the local needs and pointed out that surely the Council themselves had enough local knowledge of what is needed. Cllr PP agreed with this in principle and said that it is a lesson to be learnt for the future. JG asked if it is true that there is a proposal to sell the Beach Road car park. Cllr PP said that there was indeed such a proposal by the Strategic Car Parking Review, but this had been abandoned. There is, however, a proposal for better use to be made of this Car Park.

    Chairman’s note: Mohan Iyengar advises me that he attended the Economy Overview & Scrutiny meeting on 14 July and writes “During one of the latter items on ‘Safeguarding Poole’s Seafront’, officer, Nigel Jacobs, reported that the council was no longer making any recommendation to introduce parking charges into residential streets near to beaches. Provisionally, good news. But once the minutes emerge, let’s scrutinise that commitment.”

    Gypsy and Travellers’ Sites – TS reported that there were several invasions TS last year and so far there have been three this summer. He pointed out that Bournemouth Council take a much firmer line in dealing with this and they ‘lock
    down’ their parks with guards to stop travelers getting into them. He feels that

    Poole Council should be a little more proactive in dealing with this problem.

Wednesday, 09 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

‘Party houses’: In the absence of Steve Cameron, JS reported that the week before last, representatives of the Group met with Zeitgeist Television regarding a potential programme on Channel 4 television. It has now been confirmed that, following its presentation to Channel 4, they have confirmed that they intend to go ahead with the programme.

Cllr Peter Pawlowski said that he had had a meeting with the Head of Legal Services and is trying to push for the use of Planning Contravention Notices to deal with this problem. The Council is still seeking Counsel opinion but this is not likely to be available for at least another month.

Cllr MH reported that Planning Enforcement has now received 40% response to their street survey, which will be used to present to Counsel.

21 Canford Cliffs Avenue, which has been used as a party house. has now been sold and will become a family home.

Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill Conservation Areas Boundary Review – JS said this seems to be generating a lot of interest and invited Cllr PP to say a few words about this.

Cllr PP reported that the Planning Officers had decided to review all the Conservation Areas. The Planning Inspectorate are obviously not putting the same weight on preserving these areas as the Council, as many planning decisions have been overturned, and the Planning Officers want to get to a state where whatever is published is more defendable.

JS asked if the Association should hold a separate meeting devoted, solely, to this subject – this was agreed;

The Council is organising a A Drop-in event at All Saints Church Hall, Western Road on Thursday 24 July from 3.00 to 7.00pm

The webpage on the the BoP website can be found via

http://www.boroughofpoole.com/planning-and-buildings/urban-design-and- conservation/heritage-conservation-areas-and-listed-buildings/.

An extract from the report presented to the Economy Overview & Scrutiny Committee on 5 June 2014 will be included in the Minutes – see below.

Chairman’s note: A Public meeting has been arranged to discuss the Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill Conservation Areas Boundary Review on 29 July 2014 at 6.00pm at Branksome St Aldhelms Parish Centre, 401 Poole Road (Access via Lindsay Road). Aliis Kodis, Senior Urban Design & Conservation Officer, Planning Policy & Implementation Team, Planning & Regeneration Services will attend the meeting to make a short presentation and answer questions

Canford Cliffs/Penn Hill Conservation Areas

Beach Road – It is proposed that the Beach Road Conservation Area be removed. It is not considered that Conservation Area status is the right tool to protect landscape for landscape sake. However, should it be decided that the designation remain then it is considered that the flats and car park should be removed from the Conservation Area as these are not positive features. It is also considered that should it be deemed to retain the status then it would be logical to consult on the creation of a new Conservation Area at Branksome Dene Chine which displays the same characteristics as the other two chines at Beach Road and Canford Cliffs.

Recommendation: to consult on the de-designation of the Beach Road Conservation Area.

Branksome Park – The character of Canford Cliffs Road has been significantly Wednesday, 09 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

eroded and its removal from the conservation area is recommended. The other boundaries were also re-assessed to ensure they reflect the landscape character of the area. It is the trees and soft landscape i.e. the setting that give the area significance rather than the properties themselves.

Recommendation: to consult on proposed changes to the boundary of the Branksome Park Conservation Area.

Canford Cliffs – As with Beach Road it is proposed to remove the designation for the same reason, that Conservation Area status is not the appropriate tool to protect landscape. However, should it be decided that the designation remain then consideration should be given to including those positive buildings within Flaghead Road, St. Clair Road and Cliff Drive.

Recommendation: to consult on the de-designation of the Canford Cliffs Conservation Area.

Canford Cliffs North – The Borough of Poole Characterisation Study 2010 concluded that the current boundaries are ‘irregular and rather arbitrary’, and it recommended that the boundaries are amended to create a more cohesive area.

The conservation area appraisal survey highlighted there was little to distinguish the conservation area from the surrounding streets and it is recommended to rationalise the boundary and include additional positive buildings to give more cohesion to the area.

Recommendation: to consult on the inclusion of additional positive buildings within the Canford Cliffs North Conservation Area and consequent changes to its boundary.

Chester Road – No change.

Compton Acres – As a Grade II* Registered Park and Garden, the landscape and its setting already have more protection than conservation area status provides, so its validity as a conservation area is questionable.

Recommendation: to consult on the de-designation of the Compton Acres Conservation Area.

Evening Hill – The character of this conservation area has been significantly eroded through plot subdivision and the rationale behind its designation has been lost.

Recommendation: to consult on the de-designation of the Evening Hill Conservation Area.

Harbour Heights – It is questionable whether the character of this small group of buildings is of sufficient special character to be a conservation area. However, if it is decided that the conservation area should be retained, the Church of the Transfiguration should be considered for removal from the conservation area as it is of a different architectural style and age than the other buildings.

Recommendation: to consult on the de-designation of the Harbour Heights Conservation Area.

Haven Road – No Change.

The Avenue – Properties to the east of the existing conservation area between Cassel Avenue and the boundary of Bournemouth Borough Council were appraised together with those along the north side of Mountbatten Road, and considered to be of sufficient quality to be included in the conservation area.

Wednesday, 09 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

It is therefore proposed to treat those remaining conservation areas in Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill as one. In addition, other than for Haven Road, it is proposed that an article 4 Direction be considered to manage gates, fences, driveways and boundary treatment.

Recommendation: to consult on changes to the boundary of the conservation areas and to introduce an Article 4 Direction to manage gates, fences, driveways and boundary treatment.

Succession planning: No new developments 3 NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

JS said that the Association had not made any representations on any Planning KA Applications since its last meeting.

Other current planning issues

146 Canford Cliffs Road (Demolish existing and erect 3 – 5 storey building with rooftop garden; and surface level and basement parking to form 10 self contained flats) – Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Association on 20/05/14.

Compton Acres, Canford Cliffs Road (Erection of building comprising 20 Apartments with basement parking; re-arrangement for the existing Compton Acres parking area, and demolition of the existing office building set within the current car park) – This site has been acquired by McCarthy & Stone Retirement Lifestyle Ltd. Despite the demolition of the former office at Compton Acres, “there are several other ‘prior to commencement conditions that have not been discharged at this time“.

Norfolk Lodge Hotel, 1 Flaghead Road – There is to be a Public Consultation All about the proposal to redevelop this site to provide 20 later living apartments at Harbour Heights Hotel on 23 July 2014 2.00pm to 7.00pm

4. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS was unable to report the total Association
funds as at 30
th June 2014 as Paul Fearnley is currently away. JS

5 ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Pine Drive – JS said that a resident has raised the issue of the double-yellow
lines at the Western Road junction of Pine Drive. He is informed by
MH Transportation Services that Pine Drive is not Public Highway (Council records
show this as a private road). Cllr MH to investigate.

Itinerant in Chaddesley Glen – JS is in contact with Poole’s Housing and Community Services who are the lead service for this situation. The relevant officers are looking into the issues JS has raised and will consider the best way forward including JS proposal of a meeting.

Uniting the Conurbation (UTC) – JS reported that he had attended a UTC Steering Group meeting on 30 June. He said that he would include the Chairman’s Press Release in the Minutes.

Uniting the Conurbation welcomes the government’s recently announced a £66.3m investment in our local economy which Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (DLEP) says could result in the creation of 25,000 jobs, the building of more than 3,000 homes and the generation of up to £500m in public and private investment.

It is nevertheless odd to see that such a large injection of public funding was not secured directly by our elected local government authorities but by a

Wednesday, 09 July 2014

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

“partnership” which is dominated by a small group of unelected business people.. It is also very strange that, although the original invitation to our conurbation to bid for a City Deal stipulated that it must “contain proposals for stronger governance” across our “economic area,” the DLEP Strategic Economic Plan (the basis of the bid) says nothing of substance about this.

We must have on-going and meaningful dialogue between our representatives in local government and the businesses community which drives economic growth. Queen Victoria’s day was the heyday of municipal enterprise, whose initiative and breadth of vision created an infrastructure which allowed industry to prosper. Unfortunately the view from Whitehall seems to be that such dialogue was not taking place and Indeed, today’s fractured structure of local government in the South-east Dorset Conurbation is clearly not up to such a mighty task. Does that make it right to hand the purse-strings of public funding to an unelected body such as DLEP?

This is a time of very expensive and disjointed local government. The challenge for Whitehall is to grasp the nettle and give our conurbation a single unitary authority which will provide stronger governance for our economic area and meaningful dialogue with the business community. That is the democratic way forward and the need is truly urgent.

There was no other AOB – The meeting closed at 8.00pm and adjourned to the Parish Centre garden for Wine & ‘nibbles’.

Date of next Meeting: The next meeting will be on Wednesday 13th August All 2014 at Committee Room (formerly Lounge), Rear of Branksome St Aldhelms
Parish Centre (Access via Lindsay Road)

Wednesday, 09 July 2014

BPCCRA Minutes for MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY 20 MAY 2014

MINUTES OF BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT

RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY 20 MAY 2014

AT 7.30PM IN ST. ALDHELM’S CHURCH

PRESENT:

Terry Stewart (TS) President

John Sprackling (JS) Chairman

Wayne Hancock (WH) Vice-Chairman

Carol Parkin (CP) Hon Secretary

John Gunton (JG) Magazine Editor

Approx. 50 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES

JS welcomed those present.

Apologies: Apologies received from Cllrs Mrs May Haines & Neil Sorton, Paul

Fearnley, Keith Alcroft, Roger Allen, Ian Cross & Chris Stracey.

Accuracy: JS said would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the

meeting held on 12 MARCH 2014.

2. MATTERS ARISING

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

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

2. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto

3. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto

4. Old Orchard House – ditto

5. Land at West Quay Road ditto

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

Victoria Education Centre ( Landscaping to the new entrance ) No new

developments

31 Western Avenue (Overhanging vegetation) – ditto

Community Working Group

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(CWG):

The next meeting takes place on 28 May 2014 – deadline for questions was 19 May. Next meeting to be held on 3 September 2014.

Council Budget Monitoring report: (2013/14): WM said that he is concerned that the Council is now producing its Budget Monitoring Report quarterly instead of monthly and so he will report on the Budget Monitoring report (1 January to 31 March 2014) at the Association’s next meeting on 11 June, as this is due to be presented to the Cabinet the previous day. WM expressed concern over this and feels that residents are not being kept informed as to how the budget is performing, now that the report is quarterly. As the last Budget Monitoring Report was in February, quite a time has elapsed before residents receive the next report. The Council’s reserves are at their minimum, there has to be many cuts made and, therefore, many changes.

In reply to a query from the members at the meeting, WM says that he thinks that the Budget Monitoring Report should revert to being monthly. TS said that he supports this view.

Public Rights of Way

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto

Bessborough Road – ditto

Footpath 85 (Adjacent to 2A Shore Road) – ditto

Footpaths 82/128 (at the rear of 48 Panorama Road to the small beach) – the objectors have withdrawn, so the order for Footpath 82 is now unopposed, with the Sealed Orders returned to the Council.

Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS reported that the PLI renewal letter, policy and receipt for payment had been received from TCV. WH reported that the RHS will visit the garden in July and offer suggestions as to how best to proceed with the garden.

Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme (ERP): An update should be included in the Council Budget Monitoring report (1 January to 31 March 2014)

due to be presented to the next Cabinet on 10 June.

Localism Act/Community Engagement: JS reported that a cross-party Working Group has been established to review the Council’s decision making process. The Council currently operates with a Leader & Cabinet but some Members would prefer a Committee system to give ‘backbench’ Members a greater say in the decision making process. A second round of recruitment interviews for a new Chief Executive concluded on 16 May but failed to select a suitable candidate. It is expected that the Council will now have to employ an expensive Head-hunter. It is felt that Poole’s reputation has been damaged.

Chairman’s note: It was reported in the Daily Echo dated 24 May that “Senior councillors will reconvene in the near future to review the recruitment process and consider available options, including a possible option to postpone the appointment of a new chief executive until after the local elections in Poole in May 2015.”

Navitus Bay Offshore Wind Farm Roy Pointer reported on the problems of getting an audience with Poole Council to speak against Navitus. Bournemouth Council seems to be much more pro-active in respect of the Offshore Windfarm and its residents’ representations, whereas Poole Council ignore approaches. TS added that Navitus have had two meetings with Poole Councillors, one of which was in private, and it seems that the Council is determined not to let Poole residents have a similar public meeting.

RP handed round some postcards and encouraged residents to object to the Offshore Windfarm using the cards as a guide. There is still time to register on the Planning Inspectors’ website if anyone wishes to make any observations, and RP urges as many as possible to do this. Further help is at the PCBA web site www.saveourdorsetseaside.co.uk. Bournemouth Council held a meeting, at which the Poole and Christchurch Bays Association made their case to oppose Navitus Bay, and the developers were able to make their case. 86% of the public who attended the meeting thought that the proposal should not proceed. The PCBA presentation received a standing ovation.

RP read out part of a letter which had been sent to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport from UNESCO. The letter talks about the potential impact of the proposed Windfarm on the Jurassic Coast, which is the only natural world heritage site in England. The sense is that the proposal would drastically affect the setting of the coast and views from it. The appearance would change from a natural setting largely free from man made structures to one where the setting is dominated by man made structures. This is seen as a strong indication that the World Heritage status would be removed were the wind farm to proceed.

Road Safety concerns Lindsay Road/St Aldhelm’s Road & Burton Road: JS reported that the pedestrian operated Traffic Lights near junction of Lindsay Road & St Aldhelms Road were due to be operative that afternoon.

JS also reported that Traffic Management Order to extend the existing ‘No Waiting at Any Time’ restrictions by 5m at the junctions with Burton Road and Balcombe Road has been advertised. Closing date for representations is 05 June. JS assumes that this will be confirmed at next Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill Area Committee meeting on 18 June 2014.

JS then handed over the floor to George Crawford who spoke on behalf of a large number of Burton Road & Balcombe Road residents, who had attended the meeting specifically to air their concerns about several traffic issues relating to these roads and the ‘Party House’ at Burton Manor, 2 Burton Road.

GC pointed out that the problem of camper vans and industrial vehicles up to 3.5 tons has been worsening over the last 18 months or so. This is exacerbated bythe Council selling parking permits for only £50 per annum or so. The vehicles mainly arrive on a Friday afternoon and stay until Monday morning.

The residents of Burton and Balcombe Road have requested that the signs limit the vehicles to ‘cars only’ as in other parts of Poole, but to no avail.

GC has been battling this problem with all avenues open to him through the Council, but has been able to get no satisfactory response. Robert Syms, our Conservative MP, visited recently and was very sympathetic, although it was pointed out that he has little leverage as far as the local council is concerned.

There then followed various horror stories resulting from this problem by those attending the meeting.

Stan Alfert suggested that the question of parking close to the entrance of houses and thus creating a risk when leaving the property as the view of the road is obstructed, should be taken up with Transportation Services.

TS said that the only way to make the Council take any action is to embarrass it..

JS pointed out to TS that GC has done everything possible, except contact the media. GC said that he plans to set up a meeting with the new Chief Executive, once he/she is appointed.

JG wished to thank GC with his help in ‘Speedwatch’ and JS asked if any other members were willing to help, one morning a month and, if so, to contact JG who is the co-ordinator.

Sustaining Poole’s Seafront (Formerly Seafront Beaches Master Plan DPD) & Proposal for On-Street Pay & Display on selected roads adjacent to beach areas: The next meeting of the Economy Overview & Scrutiny Committee is fixed for 5 June 2014 and the Agenda is due to include two items of particular interest to the Association, namely…

(a) Sustaining Poole’s Seafront SPD – Working Group

(b) To consider the Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs & Ashington Conservation Area Reviews – and Recommendation for Public Consultation.

JS has asked for an update at the next Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill Area Committee meeting on 18 June 2014.

Chairman’s Note: I am informed that, starting 6th until 30th May, Branksome Chine toilets are being refurbished. The Council has agreed to have portaloos available and also have the Disabled Toilet in use.

The first phase of beach hut construction work due to take place at Flaghead and Branksome Promenade (West) during May and June has been postponed until later in the year. The council did not feel the tenders received offered value for money for Council Tax payers and is, therefore, planning to combine the works with the second phase planned at Branksome Promenade (East) and Sandbanks.

All affected beach hut tenants have been contacted.

Subject to planning, the Council aims to complete all the works during the coming Autumn and Winter.

The Council will, however, be carrying out some initial work at Flaghead over the next couple of weeks to remove any asbestos containing materials and are continuing with plans to construct nine new huts at Canford Cliffs using a different procurement and construction method. The Beach Office can be contacted for further information on 01202 70818.

Gypsy and Travellers’ Sites – TS reported that there have already been three invasions into parks, car parks etc. and the Council’s suggestion that these areas are protected by gates, blocks of stone etc. are having no effect.

Travellers come here early to attend the Dorset Steam Fair, and are quite open in stating that they have come to Poole ‘to have a holiday’.

Stan Alfert reported that Bournemouth handles the situation with travellers there very well and are completely effective in keeping them away.

Chairman’s note: At its meeting on 20 March, the Planning committee refused the applications for the Temporary Stopping Sites at Creekmoor and near B&Q at Fleetsbridge.

Strategic Car Parking review (SCPR) – The proposal for On-Street Pay & Shears

Display on selected roads adjacent to beach areas is now being dealt with by the Sustaining Poole’s Seafront Working Group – see above.

‘Party houses’: JS handed over the floor to Jen & Steve Cameron who are leading the newly formed Party House Action Group.

JC opened her remarks by saying that both she and her husband have found the level of impotence by Poole Council on the matter of ‘Party Houses’ to be unbelievable.

JC says that she would welcome any suggestions as to where they can go now, as they feel they have exhausted every avenue open to them.

The use of the media was being investigated.

JS agreed to contact the agent selling three houses in Burton Road telling them that they must divulge any detriments of these houses to prospective purchasers, as the developers themselves are not obliged to.

Peter Young suggested that a ‘vote of no confidence’ in Poole Council on the subject of Party Houses was passed. This was fully supported by those at the meeting with a few abstentions, as the extent of the ‘vote of no confidence’ was not fully understood.

The meeting gave JS the authority for the Association to make a donation to the Party House Action Group to assist it in obtaining Counsel’s opinion on this matter.

JS will need some indication of how much this will cost.

Chairman’s note: I attended a meeting of the Party House Action Group on 17 May. Robert Syms MP & Cllr Mrs May Haines were present along with approx 20 residents who were impacted by this continuing nuisance

The principle outcomes were…

1. Cllr May Haines met with Planning Services on Monday, with a view to speeding up the Planning Enforcement process. The feeling of the meeting was that there is already ample evidence and the Council’s proposal to produce questionnaire/street survey is unnecessary – the nature of letting is sufficient to establish ‘Change of use’. It seems that there has been a lack of co-ordination between the various Council Departments. Complaints have been lodged with Planning & Regeneration, ECPS (Environmental & Consumer Protection Services) & a Libby Peek of the Anti-social Behaviour Team. Many complaints have not been acknowledged.

2. The previous week, Andy Dearing, Planning Enforcement Team Manager & Casey Derrett had started to conduct interviews/take statements from some residents affected by the Party Houses.

3. Cllr May Haines has sought the advice of the Head of Legal & Democratic Services, Tim Martin, who is supportive but felt more evidence was required before he could recommend the Council to seek Counsel’s opinion.

4. Robert Syms was due to meet Stephen Thorne & Cllr Mike White on Friday (23 May) Chairman’s note: Steve Cameron & I are meeting Robert Syms on Friday (28 May) to “update” us.

3 NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT –

In the absence of KA on holiday, JS reported

146 Canford Cliffs Road (Demolish existing and erect 3 – 5 storey building with rooftop garden; and surface level and basement parking to form 10 self contained flats) – Letter of objection lodged on behalf of Association on 20/05/14. Other current planning issues 17 Avalon (Alterations and extensions to the existing dwelling) – Local concerns.

10 Nairn Road (Demolition of the existing dwelling and the construction of a block of 5 flats) – The site visit for this appeal took place on 20 May 2014. The file is still with the Inspector and it is estimated that the decision should be ready for issue towards the end of June/beginning of July.

4. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total Association funds as at 30th April 2014 amounted to £37,944.26.

5 ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Mohan Iyengar – Mr Iyengar is standing as prospective Conservative Councillor for Canford Cliffs Ward to replace Cllr Neil Sorton who is standing down in May 2015. Mr Iyengar will be attending the Association’s next meeting to introduce himself. A suggestion has been made that the Association fields its own candidate.

There was no other AOB and the meeting closed at 9.00pm.

Date of next Meeting: The next meeting will be on Wednesday 11th June 2014 at Committee Room (formerly Lounge), Rear of Branksome St Aldhelms Parish Centre (Access via Lindsay Road)

BPCCRA Minutes for MEETING HELD ON SATURDAY, 26th APRIL 2014

MINUTES OF THE FIFTYFOURTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE BRANKSOME PARK,

CANFORD CLIFFS AND DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION, HELD AT 10.30am

ON SATURDAY, 26th APRIL 2014 IN CANFORD CLIFFS VILLAGE HALL

PRESENT: Mr Terry Stewart President

Mr John Sprackling Chairman

Mr Paul Fearnley Hon Treasurer

Mr Keith Alcroft Planning Officer

Mr John Gunton Magazine Editor

Mr Roger Allen Advertising Manager

Mrs Joan Bailey Acting Minutes Secretary

GUESTS: Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner – Guest Speaker

Robert Syms MP

Cllr Mrs May Haines – Canford Cliffs Ward Councillor

Cllr Neil Sorton – ditto

PC Nick Lee

Ken Bearcroft – Parkstone Bay Association

And approx 120 Members/Wardens of the Association

1. WELCOME : The Chairman thanked everyone for their attendance and welcomed today’s speaker,

Martin Underhill, Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner, Robert Syms MP, Ken Bearcroft, Chairman,

of the Parkstone Bay Association and PC Nick Lee. He then introduced each member of the

Executive Committee.

2. APOLOGIES : Apologies were received from Wayne Hancock (Vice Chairman). Carol Parkin (Hon

Secretary) Peter Schofield, John Morison, Kevin Goldstein-Jackson & Ken Sanson, Chairman,

Sandbanks Association.

3. AGM 2013 MINUTES : Accuracy & Matters Arising The Chairman said that the Minutes of the

AGM held on 27th April 2013 had been included in the Autumn 2013 magazine. 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 said that he proposed to limit his report to the up-dating of

items included in his Chairman’s Report in the Spring magazine as follows:

Community Engagement Working Party (CEWP) – This is an Agenda item for Tuesday’s

Cabinet meeting, when it will be discussing a document Engaging with communities in Poole’.

Sustaining Poole’s Seafront (Including proposal for On-Street Pay & Display on selected roads

adjacent to beach areas) – This was formerly known as the Beach Master Plan. JS said that he gets

the impression that the Council is getting the message that residents do not want to see an overcommercialisation

of our beaches and this subject is due to be included on the Agenda for the next

Economy Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 5 June 2014.

Navitus Bay Offshore Wind Farm – Roy Pointer to provide an update about this under Any Other

Business.

Gypsy & Traveller Encampments – This is an Agenda item for Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting. JS

reported that that day’s Daily Echo included a story that security staff with dogs had turned away a

number of suspected travellers’ vehicles from King’s Park in afternoon of the previous day and that a

‘lock-down’ on public spaces and council car parks has been re-imposed for the weekend after the

Authority received information that local sites might be targeted.

Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC) – A public display of the Port of Poole Master Plan is to be

held in the North Lounge Passenger Terminal at the Port of Poole on Monday 28th

April 2014 from

3.00pm to 7.00pm to enable public inspection of the key documents.

Membership Secretary – The Association is still looking for someone to fill this role.

Conclusion – The Chairman expressed his personal thanks to Committee members and Road

Wardens for all their work on the Association’s behalf and to members for their valuable support.

5. TREASURER’S REPORT : Paul Fearnley’s Income and Expenditure Account for the Year Ended 31

December 2013, as displayed on the reverse of the Agenda, shows a deficit for the year of approx

£1,800 as opposed to a surplus the previous year.

The deficit arises from two main items of expenditure, one being the Association’s contribution to

PCBA of £1,250 and the second one due to an effort to increase membership of the Association

which involved distributing the magazine to every resident in the BH13 and BH14 postcode areas.

Membership did increase but not as much as hoped for. PF advised the campaign was not solely to

increase subscriptions but to ensure a stronger force when supporting/fighting local issues. Currently

membership stands at 2,698 members.

PF made a plea to members to pay by Standing Order which makes life a bit easier for him and also

to please check existing Standing Orders where often the amount is out of date and there has been

a change of bank, etc. Mr Fearnley was given a round of applause for all his hard work during the

year.

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 thanked John Sprackling for all his hard work as Chairman and, as JS is willing to take

on the responsibility of Chairman of the Association for a further year, JS asked whether there were

any other nominations as Chairman. As there were not, JS was unanimously voted as Chairman for

the coming year.

8. ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE : JS asked for any nominations for the Executive Committee positions

before proceeding with the election of the existing Executive Committee, who had all indicated their

willingness to stand. As there were no nominations, the current Executive Committee were

unanimously elected en bloc. A show of hands carried the motion.

President Terry Stewart

Chairman John Sprackling

Vice Chairman Wayne Hancock

Treasurer Paul Fearnley

Membership Secretary Vacant

Planning Officer Keith Alcroft

Secretary/Minute Secretary Carol Parkin

Magazine Editor John Gunton

Magazine Advertising Roger Allen

JS appealed for a Membership Secretary to come forward as currently the position is being

undertaken by Paul Fearnley in addition to his role as Treasurer. The role is not too onerous but

does require someone with access to a computer.

9. GUEST SPEAKER : JS welcomed Martyn Underhill, Dorset’s Police & Crime Commissioner, who

has been in the post for around 16 months but has already made his mark. MU has re-introduced

the Marine Surveillance team, reduced the cost of the Police helicopter by joining forces with the

neighbouring authority. MU has encouraged Neighbour Watches, set up Victim Forums, Community

Speedwatch Groups and, on Monday, is due to receive a Community Engagement award at the

Police HQ at Winfrith from an organisation set up to scrutinise the performance of Police

Commissioners in England and Wales. The Chief Executive of this organisation says “Mr Underhill’s

work was an excellent example of how PCCs can engage with the public.”

MU advised that he had undertaken a review of the speed cameras policy in Dorset, because

residents view cameras as a “cash cow”, and the results are due soon. He also spoke about his

desire to equip every officer with a Body Worn Video. He explained this will be of help in areas such

as domestic abuse which is a hard area to convict at court without video evidence. In the USA and

Canada, it has also been shown that it reduces complaints against police by 40%, and the cameras

are also useful to protect the Police from being assaulted. On tasers, these are being used more and

more, because more and more officers are being trained. He spoke about his passion for early

intervention, if we could get every 5 year old to start schooling being able to read write and talk

properly…. We could change a generation. There are two pilots underway now in Dorset changing

behaviour for the 0-5’s, in Poole and Weymouth.

Community Safer Neighbourhood Partnerships: MU is liaising with Poole’s CSP and the Local

Authority. Meetings are chaired by Cllr Judy Butt. Some of the funding comes from MU.

Closure of police stations: There has been a 20% cut in budget, necessitating a 20% cut in staff, it follows
that a 20% cut in buildings is needed too.

Community Remedy: MU consults on CR in his local forums. He gave an example where the public

were consulted on suitable punishments for low level crime.

They were presented with 5 options and asked to prioritise, i.e. do you help vulnerable people, such

as help a vulnerable persons garden, help paint the village hall; assist with litter picking on beaches

or , assist with road clearance, etc. MU would have expected the top answer to be “help vulnerable

people” but the majority chose clearing roads and drains. A resident raised the point that the

questions asked at that forum may have occurred during the bad weather when there was severe

flooding and weather could therefore have had an effect on the outcome of such a “survey”.

MU agreed this was a good point and he would take this on board in future.

MU advised that as from 6th October 2014 he will take over the responsibility for issuing a menu of

punishments for low level crime.

From November there will be a victims website set up where you can go for help and assistance.

Mental health: MU is concerned that far too many people are being taken into police custody when

what they really need is medical attention. Last year, 157 mental health patients were taken into

custody, five of whom were 17 years old or under. From April, a triage scheme will operate so that a

mental health worker will be at the scene in addition to a police constable to assess whether medical

treatment is needed rather than police custody. Currently the situation is due to lack of hospital beds

which is an NHS issue.

Emerging Issues: MU outlined the increase in cyber crime, on-line crime, identity theft, phishing,

cyber bullying (where we are not ready for it as there is an increase in the 14-16yr old age group,

mainly among girls and where there needs to be advice for parents and victims on what to do and

where to go to for advice) and lastly sexting, where girls, in particular are persuaded to send

photographs of themselves to “boyfriends” on line and then find the pictures have gone global).

On human trafficking, sexual exploitation and human slavery, MU pointed out this is on the radar and

as recently reported in the National press there was a recent case of human slavery at a Ringwood

Road business.

On gypsies and travellers, MU calls this a “groundhog day” issue which occurs every year and has

yet to be resolved. He receives hundreds of emails during summer traveller time, when

unauthorised sites keep appearing. At the Planning Committee for Dorset to be held on 9th May

Dorset County Council will consider planning permission for a site for Dorsetshire but not for Poole

and Bournemouth. Local Authorities such as Poole and Bournemouth would like to share that site,

but cannot by law. MU predicts similar problems to last year in Poole. MU and Cllr Judy Butt will be

working together to lobby Government for a change in the law.

On Rave/Party Houses, MU advised that he had received 96 emails from residents on this subject to

date but questions whether it is primarily a Police issue; rather it is more one for the Local Authority.

He accepted it is a growing problem. The change in the law in October will have an impact on this,

and should strengthen the ability to deal with the houses. The SNT and Local Authority are taking

action and are engaged with all parties on this issue as the current law is clearly not good enough.

MU cannot change the law and he was pleased to see Robert Syms here today, who is also lobbying

Govt.

Before handing over to PC Nick Lee who is the Police Constable working on the Rave/Party House

issue, MU advised he was also President of the Parkstone Rotary Club and he would like to promote

a fund raising event to be held at St Luke’s church on 31st May at which the Dorset and Gwent

Police Male Voice Choirs would be singing – all welcome to attend, tickets available from Select

Travel, Canford Cliffs.

PC Nick Lee – Rave/Party Houses: NL advised that this has been raised at MU’s local forums and

with Neighbourhood Watch. There is one Company responsible for the majority of lettings, DeLuxe

Holiday Homes, who also own properties elsewhere in the Borough besides Canford Cliffs. When

there is a problem he advised residents to ring 101 and Environmental Health at the time of any

disturbance giving details of the address where there is a disturbance and this will be logged on the file and officers will attend. He advised the police have been engaged with the Council
ater over the matter and that he is also working with DeLuxe Holiday Homes who are co-operating by displaying posters in their properties asking party goers to respect their neighbours.

Jenny Cameron (resident in Moorfields Road with neighbour a “party house”) explained she and her

husband had been suffering noise and disturbance every week-end for the last three years and

although the Police have been attentive she knows from experience that DeLuxe Homes have not

been bothering to deal with this by way of posters etc. DeLuxe Homes say that these are “family

holiday week-ends” but this is not the case – they are all single sex groups and young, heavy

drinking party goers (Tesco vans delivering alcohol throughout the night and early hours). She feels

the way to deal with this is for the Planning Department to invoke Change of Use from residential to

commercial.

Robert Syms MP agreed this is commercial business and the matter has been raised with the Local

Authority who are looking into Change of Use. London has a total ban on these commercial

activities but he felt this would not sit right with this area in view of many genuine family holiday lets.

He advised that the Local Authority can have authority to close a house for 6 months under the Anti

Social Behaviour Act coming into force on 6th October when the matter can be dealt with between the

Police, the Local Authority and local residents.

Steve Cameron has been investigating all aspects and has come to the conclusion this is definitely a

Planning issue. He took the matter up with the Planning Department in November 2012 regarding

the change of use but the Council did nothing. He feels that the Local Authority and the residents

should have control over this but to date residents have not been involved in any discussions.

Cllr May Haines advised the LA is taking this seriously. Tim Martin, Head of Legal Services for the

LA has agreed the time has come for Planning to review the evidence they have to date. A meeting

has been held in Council along with the ASB team. Mr Thorne, Head of Planning Department, who

was at the meeting, is currently on leave but on his return Mr Martin will work with the Planning

Department to review the evidence.

Stewart Griffiths of Burton Manor, 2 Burton Road advised he was the owner of one of these houses

he had no evidence of any complaints. On the matter of health and safety, he produced

documentation to show he has had a fire risk assessment carried out, commercial insurance

certificate and Fire Regulations.

A resident in Elgin Road advised that over the last 2-3 years parties of youngsters have been arriving

at party houses in the road, causing disturbance between 2, 3 and 4am.

On another issue, Mr Dennis Riley resident, asked PC Lee about marijuana and cannabis farms. PC

Lee agreed this is on their radar and here the Police are reliant on residents to report any suspicious

activity in their area.

JS advised that in view of time constraints he would have to move on to Any Other Business but all

are welcome to come along to the next meeting of the Association to be held on the second

Wednesday in May at 7.30pm in the Committee Room, rear of St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (access

via Lindsey Road).

Chairman’s note:14 May clashes with the date of the Reconvened Annual Council meeting so it has

been agreed for the next meeting to be rescheduled this to the following Wednesday (21 May), so

that our Ward Councillors can attend. I was also planning to attend the Reconvened Annual

Council Meeting, to report back on the appointment of Cabinet & Committee Members etc.

10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS :

Navitus Bay Offshore Wind Farm – Roy Pointer gave a short presentation on the Navitus Bay

Offshore Wind Farm. With regard to noise, if the project goes ahead Bournemouth, Poole and

Swanage residents will have to put up with high noise levels during construction over 4-5 years when

piling takes place.

The application for consent has now been deposited by the developer to the Planning Inspectorate

and a decision will be made on whether to accept it for Examination by 8th May 2014.

Part of the noise calculations used a Standard that is used for land based turbines and specifically not

for offshore; this suggests a level above the permitted maximum noise levels at the shore.

In addition to locals experiencing noise pollution there will be a large impact on tourism. The

developer’s survey showed 32% of visitors when questioned said they would not be returning to the

area during the construction period if the project goes ahead. RP showed a slide of the Skegness

wind turbines which illustrated his concerns.

He also advised there is a medical condition called Wind Turbine Syndrome which has been reported

in N. America and Australasia and which particularly affects people with certain pre-existing

conditions e.g. high blood pressure, migraine etc.

RP advised there is a presentation which is being held at the BIC on 10th May for Bournemouth

residents but so far Poole has not consulted local residents.

He urged everyone to take action to prevent the project going ahead by registering on the Planning

Inspectorate website (www.planningportal.gov.uk/infrastructure) and to support the “Stop Navitus

Bay” movement.

UKIP: JS informed those present that there would be a meeting that afternoon at The Grasshopper in

Parkstone at 3.00pm organised by UKIP.

11. REFRESHMENTS : The Chairman closed the meeting at 11.45am and invited everyone to partake of

the refreshments provided.

John Sprackling

Chairman

BPCCRA Minutes for MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH 2014

MINUTES OF BRANKSOME PARK, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT

RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH 2014

AT 7.30PM IN THE LOUNGE, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT: Terry Stewart (TS) President

John Sprackling (JS) Chairman

Wayne Hancock (WH) Vice-Chairman

Keith Alcroft (KA) Planning Officer

Cllr Neil Sorton (NS) Ward Councillor

Approx. 10 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES

JS welcomed those present, particularly Peggy Elliott who was kindly standing in as

Minutes Secretary.

Apologies: Apologies received from Cllr Mrs May Haines, Carol & Mike Parkin &

Ken Sanson, Chairman of Sandbanks Association.

Accuracy: JS said would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the

meeting held on 12 FEBRUARY 2014.

2. MATTERS ARISING

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

1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – Lush has moved into the

unit formerly occupied by ‘Wok & Spice’ (150 staff)

2. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – No new developments

3. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto

4. Old Orchard House – ditto

5. Land at West Quay Road ditto

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

Victoria Education Centre ( Landscaping to the new entrance ) No new

developments

31 Western Avenue (Overhanging vegetation) – ditto

Community Working Group (CWG): The date of the AGM is now 1 April 2014, to

which all residents are invited.

Council Budget Monitoring report: (2013/14) William Mutlow reminded those

present that the Council Budget Monitoring report is now produced on a quarterly

basis – June, September, December and March, unless there is a significant

virement which required Cabinet or Council approval. WM also referred to a

potential one-off payment of about £5.5m to the Council Superannuation Fund.

which would result in a potential saving long-term.

Public Rights of Way

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto

Bessborough Road – ditto

Footpath 85 (Adjacent to 2A Shore Road) – ditto

Footpaths 82/128 (at the rear of 48 Panorama Road to the small beach) – the

objectors have withdrawn, so the order for Footpath 82 is now unopposed, with the

Sealed Orders returned to the Council.

Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): WH reported that Cllr May Haines has been

in touch to say that she is still awaiting confirmation re Pinecliff Gardens. The

officer seems to think the licence does not expire till July 2015. MH suspects that it

may have been confused with Canford Cliffs Pocket Park. Unfortunately, the officer

concerned has gone on holiday

Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme (ERP): JS plans to attend next

week’s Council Efficiency & Effectiveness Overview & Scrutiny (CE&O&S)

Committee.

Chairman’s note: At its meeting on 24/10/13, members of the CE&O&S committee

received a report on the Corporate Property and Asset Management Strategy 2013

– 2016 & Action Plan 2013 – 2014. The current Forward Plan simply describes this

as “Items considered previously:”

I have written to the Chairman to say that I would have expected to see a reference

to ‘Action Plan 2014 – 2015’.

JS

Localism Act/Community Engagement: TS is still waiting to hear from the Chief

Executive, John McBride, who promised to take up a number of the points raised at

the meeting of Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group representatives with

Leader of Council & John McBride on 13 Feb 2014. Hopefully, the answers will be

received before he retires at the end of this month.

A discussion ensued concerning the possibility of an interim Chief Executive being

‘bought in’ at vast expense. Those present felt that there should be someone from

within Poole who could stand in during the time required (?six months) to find a

permanent replacement. It was agreed that the Association should send a note to

the Leader of the Council to this effect.

Navitus Bay Offshore Wind Farm – Roy Pointer reported that the application

date has been deferred to Quarter 2; probably in April 2014.

PCBA has visited the Planning Inspectorate at Bristol regarding the proposals not

being properly consulted on. Whether this is a valid point will be a matter for the

Statutory Stakeholders at such time as the application is made.

Concern has been expressed that there will be extensive and long-term disruption

to areas of outstanding natural beauty. TS will contact his counterpart in

Hampshire CPRE.

By a show of hands, the committee showed continuing opposition to the project.

This will also be voted upon at the AGM.

Road Safety concerns Lindsay Road/St Aldhelm’s Road & Burton Road: No

new developments.

Sustaining Poole’s Seafront (Formerly Seafront Beaches Master Plan DPD): At

the Poole Beach Hut Association AGM on 26 Feb 2014, Cllr Peter Pawlowski

informed those present that the first meeting of the ‘Task & Finish Group’ looking at

the Sustaining Poole’s Seafront SPD was due to take place early this month.

Gypsy and Travellers’ Sites – Planning committee will consider the applications

on 20 March. Two sites have been identified – Creekmoor and near B&Q at

Fleetsbridge. NS stated that the cost for the two sites would be around £250,000,

whereas a permanent site would be in excess of £1m.

Strategic Car Parking review (SCPR) – At the Call-in Overview and Scrutiny

Committee meeting on 27 February 2014, Committee Members voted unanimously

to recommend to Cabinet to overturn its decision to approve the principle of

summer charging on residential roads adjacent to the beaches, including the

Sandbanks peninsula.

However, this is not the end of this matter, as this will be referred back to the

Cabinet and will feature as an Agenda item for its meeting on 18 March 2014 at

7.00pm Committee Suite, Civic Centre. The Cabinet may decide to accept the

recommendations but there is no guarantee that it will do so.

There was discussion around the proposal to sell off part of the Beach Road car

park, in order to raise funds for the necessary repairs to the Dolphin Centre Multistorey

car park, part of which is currently closed due to safety concerns.

3 NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT –

KA said that he had nothing to report..

4. ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total Association funds as at

28th February 2014 amounted to £37,785.61

5 ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Next Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill Area Committee meeting – This is fixed for 02 Apr

14 at 7:00 pm. At the Committee Room, at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre.

It was agreed that JS would contact Martyn Underhill to be the guest speaker at the

AGM. If he was unavailable, he would ask Douglas Eyre and David Trenchard, two

former Bournemouth councillors, to speak on the subject of “Uniting the

Conurbation”.

Breach of planning conditions – William Mutlow said that, unless a Councillor is

approached directly, there seems to be no response to raising concerns over

breach of planning conditions using the ‘Report it’ facility on the BoP website. TS

suggested that WM should raise this at the forthcoming CWG AGM.

‘Party houses’ – TS reported that 4-5 houses seem to have been taken over and

being used as ‘Party houses’. If there is disturbance, the Environmental &

Consumer Protection Services (ECPS) should be contacted on 01202 261700 (8.30

am – 5.15 pm Monday to Thursday & 8.30 am – 4.45 pm Friday) or the emergency

number 0800 506050 (9.00 am – 5.00 pm Saturday and Sunday and 8.00 pm – 2.00

am Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday)

ECPS, in addition to the Police, have the power to deal with this nuisance.

Spring 2014 Pines & Chines magazine – John Gunton said that he hoped that the

magazine will be distributed in the second week in April.

There was no other AOB and the meeting closed at 8.45pm.

Date of next Meeting: There will be no meeting on Wednesday 9th April 2014 as

the Association’s AGM will be held on Saturday 27th April at Canford Cliffs Village

Hall commencing at 10.30 a.m.


BPCCRA Minutes 10th August 2011

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD Parajumpers Jacka Herr CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING

HELD ON WEDNESDAY 10th AUGUST 2011

AT 7.30PM IN ‘THE LOUNGE’, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

John Sprackling (JS) Chairman

Wayne Hancock (WH)Vice-Chairman

Carol Parkin (CP)Secretary

Keith Alcroft (KA)Planning Officer

John Gunton (JG) MAgazine Editor

Cllr Mrs May Haines (MH)Ward Councillor

Cllr Neil Sorton ditto

Approx. 15 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllrs Neil Sorton & Mrs May Haines and all those present.
Apologies: Apologies received from Terry Stewart (Funeral), Stan Alfert (New Grandson), Michael Bond, Bob & Phyllis Young, Chris Stracey & Ken Sanson.

Accuracy: After receiving no comments, JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true    JS and accurate record of the meeting held on 13 JULY 2011.

2. MATTERS ARISING

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1.    Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments

2.    Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto

3.    Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto

4.    Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto

5.    Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 373 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – Amended plans lodged on 07/06/11.

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – The property remains unsold. Any prospective purchaser will be advised of the legal requirement to plant a replacement tree to a specification detailed in the tree replacement notice
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto

Current planning enforcement issues
147 Banks Road (Damage to four Corsican pines) – Next Court Hearing fixed for 17 -19th October 2011 at Bournemouth Magistrates Court.
Victoria Education Centre (St Aldhelms Road entrance) – The school has carried out some suitable planting and erected a chain link fence.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) – No new developments.
Land adj. to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) – – thditto
23 Ravine Road (Unauthorized tree work) Court Hearing adjourned to 12th August 10am Bournemouth Magistrates Court, Stafford Road

Community Working Group (CWG): WH attended this afternoon’s CWG meeting but said that there were no Agenda items particularly effecting the Association and the    WH Minutes of the meeting will be circulated as soon as these were available.

JS said that his question about the open metal gates proviso in the Branksome Park Conservation Area Character Appraisal and Management Plan had not found its way onto the Agenda. If it is felt that this is no longer relevant, then it should be deleted. Having provisos which are ignored in practice undermines the authority of the Conservation Area Management Plan.

Poole Partnership – JS said that he has still to contact Sylvia Webster, Neighbourhood Manager, Bourne Estate.

Public Rights of Way:

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto

Bessborough Road – ditto

Footpath 82 Spur –JS reported that the RMYC has just lodged a planning application (Construct an extension to the existing marina basin. Removal of part of hardstanding and provision of public footpath to foreshore) which it is hoped will resolve the problem of Footpath 82 Spur.

Possible Charitable Status for Assn: Mike Parkin reported that he has been in touch with a colleague who runs a multi-million pound autistic charity and the conclusion from this exchange was that it would be too much hassle on the part of the Association for relatively little reward – that is assuming that the Association is granted charitable status, which is not at all sure. There was some discussion on this amongst the members and the general conclusion was that it would present the Association with too much trouble for little reward. It was agreed that this item to be deleted from further consideration at this time.
Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS reported that the official opening of the new Treasure island play area above Canford Cliffs chine takes place tomorrow at 2.00pm. Chairman’s Note: I attended this event along with other members of the Association, our three Ward Councillors and a large group residents with their children. The official opening was a great success, Congratulations to all involved with this project.
WH reported that all was going well with the Sunken Garden, and that he would soon be ready for an injection of money from the Association for replanting. He estimated that initially he would need £500/750. JS asked the members for a show of hands to approve that this amount would be made available, and it was duly passed with no objections up to the value of £750..
CP asked for a vote of thanks to WH for his work on this project, both in getting it off the ground and his physical efforts at the working group each week. This was recognised by the Chairman who thanked WH.

Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: JS reported that it was announced last Friday that Councils must publish lists of their assets. A review of the Corporate Asset Management Plan is to be presented at the Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 22/09/11.

Localism Bill: WH said that this subject was discussed at the CWG meeting he had been at today. This Bill is going through its third reading at the present time and is constantly changing.

Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: nothing to report as there has not been any Cabinet meetings since the Association’s last meeting.

Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – Jan Robins said that she had had some experience in this matter through her involvement with the National Trust and agreed to seek advice about this on behalf of the Association.

Hedge at Kenilworth Court – MH doesn’t think this is worth pursuing any further as she is not getting any response to her letters.

Offshore Wind Farm – Roy Pointer reported that, as far as he can see, the Government have powers to enable this to go ahead. It is proposed that 200+ windmills will be erected West of the Isle of Wight. NS reported that the Councillors for Canford Cliffs Ward have been in touch with Robert Syms (MP). Mr. Syms and other concerned local MPs have asked for a meeting with the Secretary of State for Energy. If the Wind farm can be seen from the mainland, they will ask for the turbines to be sited further offdhore. There followed a lot of discussion amongst the members, mainly in opposition to the turbines both from an aesthetic and economical point of view. NS offered to ascertain the latest position on this and the statistics on the number of failures of existing turbines from Robert Syms.
Lindsay Road and St Aldhelms Road Junction – No further developments

3.    NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
JS reported that Keith Alcroft had not been contacted about any planning application during the course of the month but the following applications had been determined.
47A Lindsay Road (Erection of a Class C2 care home for the elderly with associated car parking) – Application granted on 21/07/11. 63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished) – application allowed by Planning Inspector on appeal on 19/07/11.
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – retrospective application (APP/11/00330) lodged on 24/03/11. The house has not been built in accordance with the plans and the conditions have not been fulfilled. There is a new planting plan dated 13/07/11. The letter concludes with ‘We believe that the site will now be abundantly planted and full canopy closure should be achieved within two to three years’.
Other current planning issues
5 Excelsior Road (Demolish existing buildings and erect 1 No 4 bed house with integral garage) – Application was registered on 11/05/11 and has been ‘Red-carded’. Amended plans lodged on 04/08/11. 8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.
60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.
4.    REPORT RE CANFORD CLIFFS AND PENN HILL AREA COMMITTEE (27/07/11) – In the absence of Terry Stewart, JS reported that there had been a lengthy discussion on Traffic Regulation Order objections. May Haines gave a verbal report on Pinecliff Sunken Gardens and Canford Cliffs Pocket Park. The report on the Localism Bill had to be deferred as Cllr Mrs Judy Butt was unwell.
5.    ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported on behalf of Paul Fearnley, Hon Treasurer, that Santander have, once again, been unable to provide downloads of their bank statements. PF was told me that this has been a problem since April following the integration of Alliance & Leicester and Santander. There is an incompatibility between the two systems and so far this has not been resolved.
As PF does not have a paper statement to hand he has been unable to finalise the cash flow for this month.

6.    ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Clubhouse and Tennis Courts at the Wilderton Road – JS reported that the Council intends to market a lease for the operation of the Branksome Park Tennis Courts and associated Pavilion premises as is. The successful tenderer will have to be a tennis operator who may be granted a lease for a period longer than seven years, dependent upon the successful proposal to operate the sporting facility.
The facility will still be used for the local provision of tennis and the Council will work closely with the chosen provider to ensure the community is well catered for in their programme.
The adjacent Bowls Club is unaffected. Extract from note from Head of Leisure Services to Cllr Sorton
The tennis facilities at Leicester Road have been operated under license from the Council by a private company for many years. We are required to re-tender periodically and we are hoping to find an operator to run the facility for public recreation and invest in its maintenance and improvement and pay us as well.
To get all of that we will need to offer a long lease and technically that is a ‘disposal of open space’ although the Council will retain ownership.

BPCCRA Autumn Magazine – JS asked for material for the magazine by the middle of next month.

Poole’s Sustainability and Energy policies (PCS31, 32 and 35) – JG, who is building his own house, listed the costs of ensuring ‘Level 3’ is met, and doesn’t think the Local Authority is fully aware of this.    For instance, the cost of getting the necessary certificates for a single house can be between £2,000 and £8,000.. JS said if JG send him details of his concerns, he would arrange frod this mater to be raised at the next CWG meeting.

Proposed article for Poole News – MH said that she has had an enquiry from the Editor of Poole News as to whether there would be any interest in putting an article in Poole News about what the Association is doing at the ‘Sunken Garden’ This was agreed and MH said that she would follow this up.

Sewers – Roy Pointer wondered if members were aware of the change in responsibility of the maintenance of sewers by local water companies. RP suggested that the Association should ask for a representative from Wessex Water to come and explain the ins and outs of what was going to happen. It was agreed that this was a good idea.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.20 pm

Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 14th September 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)

BPCCRA Minutes 13th July 2011

MINUTES OF THE BRANKSOME, CANFORD CLIFFS & DISTRICT RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY 13th    JULY 2011 AT 7.30PM IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

John Sprackling (JS)

Carol Parkin (CP)

Keith Alcroft (KA)

Bob Young (BY)
Chairman Secretary Planning Officer
Magazine Advertising Cllr Mrs May Haines (MH)    Ward Councillor
Approx. 20 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllr (Mrs) May Haines and all those present, including Geoff Solomon, a former Chairman of the Assn who was about to leave Poole and move to live close to his son, near Silverstone.
Apologies: Apologies received from Cllr Neil Sorton, Terry Stewart, Chris Stracey, Daphne Howell & Ken Sanson
Accuracy: After receiving no comments, JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 08 JUNE 2011.

2. MATTERS ARISING Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1.    Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments 2.    Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto 3.    Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto 4.    Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto
5.    Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 373 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – Amended plans lodged on 07/06/11.

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – The property remains unsold. Any prospective purchaser will be advised of the legal requirement to plant a replacement tree to a specification detailed in the tree replacement notice
th
Current planning enforcement issues
147 Banks Road
(Damage to four Corsican pines)
– Next Court Hearing fixed for 17 -19
October 2011 at Bournemouth Magistrates Court.
Victoria Education Centre
(St Aldhelms Road entrance) –
The school has carried out some
suitable planting and erected a chain link fence.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road
(Boundary treatment)
– No
new developments.
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto Land adj. to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) –
ditto
23 Ravine Road
(Unauthorised tree work)
Court Hearing fixed for
25
Bournemouth Magistrates Court, Stafford Road
July at 10am

th
Community Working Group (CWG): Next meeting of Community Working Group is fixed for 10/08/11. WH has been asked to raise the issue of the open metal gates provision within the Branksome Park Conservation Area. If the LPA no longer feel that this is relevant then it should be deleted. Having provisions which are ignored in practice undermines the authority of the Character Appraisal and Management Plan. .

Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: William Mutlow reported on the Council Budget Monitoring report (1 April 2011 – 31 May 2011) which shows that the Council’s Budget faces continuing pressures – the estimated over-spend at the end of the year is £732,000 – this will change during the year. The biggest pressure is Adult Social Care. There is much work going on, especially in the Efficiency Review programme. The Cabinet approved proposals in March to reduce the cost of employment by approximately £1.5m over two years – 2012/13 and 2013/14 and hope to obtain the agreement to this by the Trade Unions by the end of September this year. There is still a tremendous amount of work to be done.
JS drew attention to the Budget Simulator www.budgetsimulator.com/poole on the BoP website. Last year, 610 responses were received and it is one of many public consultation exercises and key stakeholders events which Members use in supporting the difficult budget choices they have to make.

Poole Partnership – JS reported that both he and WH had attended the Partnership Meet & Greet Event on 21/06/11 and it was a great success.    JS
Sylvia Webster, Neighbourhood Manager, Bourne Estate has suggested the idea of a small group from the Association going along to a presentation about the work of the Bourne Valley Action Group – with a walk around and lunch or early evening (Tea rather than lunch), Saturday morning or in the working week – whatever works best.
Several members expressed an interest and JS said that he would organize a mutually convenient date.
Public Rights of Way:
Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.    JS/RD Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto Bessborough Road – ditto Footpath 82 Spur –
Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to organise Sub-Committee.    JS
Chairman’s Note
: At last Monday’s Southern Poole Chairman’s Liaison
Group meeting, it was reported that, following RMYC purchase of Sandbanks Marina Yacht
Boatyard, the Sandbanks Assn are to press for restitution of footpath and removal of fence.
Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden):
JS reported that Continental Landscapes will be starting on the new Treasure island play area being installed on the open space above the chines in Canford Cliffs today (13th July). Work is likely to take up to three weeks to complete
WH reported that we still have help from the Victoria Education Centre and we also have a working session each week with a group of ladies on a Wednesday morning from 10 until 12.30 and good progress is being made. It is hoped that the Eastern rockery will be cleared and ready for planting in autumn for next Spring and Summer. Wayne appealed for more help on a Wednesday morning. By next month he will be asking the Association for funding for plants.
MH added that she has been asked to speak at the next Area Committee meeting to bring this project to residents’ attention and possibly get more help.
Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: JS reported that he had attended last Thursday’s Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting. The total Current 3-year Target for this programme for 2011/12 to 2013/14 had been reduced from £5,385m to £5,154m, of which £1,264m will be achieved this year.
JS/WH
JS JS
Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.

Amount Delivered
2011/12 £000’s    £000’s
Income Generation    289 Procurement 295 Revenues & Benefits    151
Amount Remaining    ACTION to be delivered
2011/12    – 243
145 86
474
Customer Transport ICT Print Strategy
55 0
Total ERP Programme 790
The review of the Corporate Asset Management Plan 2010-11 is to be presented at September’s meeting of the Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Localism Bill: The Bill is expected to receive the Royal Assent about October this year.    JS/TS
Hedge at Kenilworth Court – MH has written to Dr. Jolliff, one of the Directors for Kenilworth Court, asking if there are any plans for landscaping as the hedge on Haven Road is so    MH unsightly.
Poole & Christchurch Bays Shoreline Management Plan – Roy Pointer reported that there is a leaflet on the Shoreline Management Plan which can be printed off the BoP website.    RP Essentially there is no change to Canford Cliffs Ward.
RP went on to say that he had been to a presentation held by the Bournemouth Natural Science Society to talk about NAVITUS. NAVITUS proposes to establish a substantial wind farm off Poole Bay. Our own council plus Bournemouth and Dorset County Council will have no input with regard to planning etc., as this will be dealt with by HMG, with, it seems, no local consultation. With regard to the amount of electricity generated by this wind farm, the amount is miniscule compared to other wind farms in the UK, and the cost is phenomenal. Much of this will be borne by the general public in the form of a ‘stealth’ tax on electricity bills.
RP suggests that this is an extremely important matter, and feels that the Borough Councils and County Council should get together to oppose this proposal.
RP thought it was an excellent idea for as many of us as possible to contact our MP, Robert Syms, to express our feelings.
MH said that she would speak to Mr. Syms.
3.    NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT Keith Alcroft reported…    KA
3 Ravine Road
(a) Application for a new planning permission to replace extant permission 07/01169/006/F to erect 3 storey block of flats. The Assn. lodged letters of objection on 20/06/11 & 28/06/11. Chairman’s Note – Application granted subject to Unilateral Undertaking on 14/07/11 (b) Application for a new planning permission to replace extant permission 08/01169/007/F to erect two storey extension to rear, erect dormer to front and erect dormer to side with additional roof lights. Chairman’s Note – Application granted subject to conditions on 14/07/11
Other current planning issues
1 Cliff Drive
(Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before)
revised retrospective application granted on 06/07/11.

5 Excelsior Road (Demolish existing buildings and erect 1 No 4 bed house with integral garage) – Application was registered on 11/05/11 and has been ‘Red-carded’. The Assn. lodged a letter of objection on 10/06/11. 47A Lindsay Road (Erection of a Class C2 care home for the elderly with associated car parking) – Application registered on 31/03/11. Transportation Services report lodged on
Wednesday13thJuly.2011
Page3
MINUTESOFTHEBRANKSOME,CANFORDCLIFFS&DISTRICTRESIDENTSASSOCIATION
16/05/11.
ACTION
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – retrospective application lodged on 24/03/11. The house has not been built in accordance with the plans and the conditions have not been fulfilled.
63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal. (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Site visit took place at 11.15 on 08/06/11. 8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m. 60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.
5.    ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total Assn. funds as at 30th June    JS amounted to £34,367.39.
6.    ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Garden Waste Collection – The consultation runs until Friday 29th July but Option 6 below has been agreed ‘in principle’ pending a further report to Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 08/09/11. The cost to householders would be £31 per annum and it is felt that this option provides the best strategy of closing the gap in the Medium Term Financial Plan and enabling new properties to join the scheme at a reasonable price.
The proposed options were as follows… Option 1 – Do nothing – Continue the current scheme (April – October) Option 2 – Stop the free garden waste scheme entirely to all 22,000 households Option 3 – Stop the free garden waste scheme entirely to all 22,000 households, roll out no garden waste in black bin across whole Borough Option 4 – Continue the current scheme (April – October). No garden waste in black bin rolled out across whole Borough to those both on and off the scheme Option 5 – Extend the current free scheme to an additional 11,000 properties. No garden waste in black bin rolled out across whole Borough to those both on and off the scheme Option 6 – Offer a chargeable scheme for 9 months (March – November) No garden waste in black bin rolled out across whole Borough to those both on and off the scheme Option 7 – Offer a chargeable scheme for 12 months. No garden waste in black bin rolled out across whole Borough to those both on and off the scheme.
MH said that the initial pilot scheme of providing some households with green waste bins had been extremely successful and the Council were continually asked by others ‘when are we all going to get a green bin?’ The answer to this is that it will not be rolled out across the borough as it is unaffordable. The opinion of the committee of the Council when they discussed this matter was that the only way it could be rolled out across the whole borough was by charging a fee for this.
Much discussion followed. One member thought that starting to charge for a green waste bin was a negative step in recycling.
KA asked where the green bins waste currently goes. SA explained that green waste is converted into compost for sale at the recycling plant. MH pointed out that the recycling plant does not belong to the council.
After more discussion. JS said that we were not going to reach a consensus and asked everyone to look at the leaflets that Cllr MH had brought, and send the prepaid section back to the council with suggestions.
The proposal by RP was that that Association supports to retaining of the status quo and this was put to the vote, and the motion was carried.

Lindsay Road and St Aldhelms Road Junction – The problems of traffic in this area were discussed at length.    Paul Turner proposed Smart traffic lights or mini-roundabout but JS said that, in the current economic climate the cost was likely to be prohibitive.
Sheena Vickery suggested a ‘no right turn’ into St Aldhelms Road for motorists travelling from Westbourne. The signs would be cheap, but they need to be combined with a pedestrian refuge as otherwise speed would just increase. This proposal was opposed by Stan Alfert who said that this junction was widely used by residents living in Branksome Park who would otherwise be required to use The Avenue, which is already congested at times.
JS suggested the formation of a ‘sub-group’ to try to come up with a solution. This will be kept on the Agenda.
AIMCommunity – Richard Newland, Project Manager of this social inclusion project run by The Salvation Army in Poole has contacted JS. The organisation is working to try and create opportunities and hope for the many children in the Borough who struggle in education, at home, in their communities or have personal difficulties whether that is behaviour or learning based.
As a local project, Mr Newland is keen to try and increase the awareness of local residents of the work his organisation does, so they can both support the project in volunteering or perhaps even financially.
A charitable night is being organised in November and this will probably take place in Sandbanks/Branksome Park area.
Community Foundation – Tina Baker MinstF (Institute of Fundraising), Chief Executive, Community Foundation, Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole has also contacted JS. Ms Baker says that the fund is likely to grow to a £1m plus fund and though it has been pump-primed by the Poole Partnership, it is a registered charitable fund in its own right administered by Dorset’s Community Foundation. Its aim are to benefit the people and communities of Poole
Graffiti – Scottish & Southern Energy Sub Station Known as Site no 51 Haven Road – It was brought to the attention of the Association, by Mr. G. Davies, a member, that the sub-station was extremely unsightly, covered in graffiti and seemingly used for nefarious purposes. The Canford Cliffs Land Society have the problem in hand, along with the Borough Council and MH reported that the sub-station now has railings around and the graffiti is shortly to be cleaned by the Council.
Talbot Village Trust Planning Application – Paul Turner referred to the special session of the Public Inquiry into the Talbot Village Trust application which has been arranged for next Wednesday (20/07/11) from 6pm to 8.30pm. JS said that a small turnout could send the wrong message to the Inspector.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.32 pm and was concluded with a ‘glass’ and ‘nibbles’.
Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 10th August 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)

Promotion of Cycling – Poole, Bournemouth and East Dorset Cycling Club are campaigning for the ‘Right to Ride’ project, whereby people are being persuaded to use sustainable transport. Paul Turner offered to provide further information if this is wanted.

BPCCRA Minutes 8th June 2011

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

HELD ON WEDNESDAY 8th parajumper JUNE 2011 AT 7.30PM

IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

  • Terry Stewart President parajumperjackorse
  • John Sprackling Chairman
  • Carol Parkin Secretary
  • Keith Alcroft Planning Officer
  • Bob Young Magazine Advertising
  • Cllr Mrs May Haines Ward Councillor
  • Cllr Peter Pawlowski Ward Councillor
  • Cllr Neil Sorton Ward Councillor
  • Approx 15 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES

JS welcomed the three Ward Councillors and all those present
Apologies: Apologies received from Stan Alfert, Roy Pointer, Daphne Howell & Ken Sanson, Chairman, Sandbanks Assn.
Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of    JS the meeting held on 13 APRIL 2011.

2. MATTERS ARISING

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1.   Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – Chairman’s note: The Dolphin Quays rent review was due on 14/03/10. The Council commissioned a technical analysis of the current rent position and, based on this information, decided not to seek a review. Following the lease to Tesco Express in early 2010, I am informed that the Council’s property advisers recognise there is now a more positive position and the advice will be updated. This work is commercially sensitive and is not available for general release.

2.   Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – No new developments

3.    Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto

4.    Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto

5.    Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 373 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – Chairman’s note: Amended plans lodged on 07/06/11.

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:

JS provided an up-date re 147 Banks Road (Damage to four Corsican pines) – The Council has requested the Court to consider re-fixing the trial as its chosen barrister is unavailable on the dates provisionally fixed for 21st, 22nd & 23rd July 2011. The Court’s further comments are awaited

Current planning enforcement issues

Victoria Education Centre (St Aldhelms Road entrance) – The school has carried out some suitable planting and erected a chain link fence.

19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – The property remains unsold. Any prospective purchaser will be advised of the legal requirement to plant a replacement tree to a specification detailed in the tree replacement notice

1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) – revised retrospective application registered on 19/02/11.

2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) –No new developments.

55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto

Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) – ditto

Community Working Group (CWG): The Minutes of the Community Working Group meeting on 04/05/11 are now available and will be circulated with the Minutes of this meeting.

Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: In the absence of William Mutlow, JS reported that Council Budget Monitoring (Financial Outturn) 1st April 2010 to 31st March 2011 is to be presented at next week’s Cabinet meeting.

14 proposals were approved by the Cabinet on 16/03/11 and the aim of these is to save up to £1.5M from the costs of employment in 2012/13 and 2013/14. These proposals include the proposal to reduce the mileage rate payable to staff using their own cars for work purposes.
NS pointed out the changes involve a change in the terms and conditions of the staff and negotiations with recognised Trades Unions are continuing both at a local and national level.

Poole Partnership – JS reported that an Invitation had been extended by Poole Partnership to a Meet & Greet Event on Tuesday 21st June 2011 4pm – 6pm    JS Cattistock Room (Conference Room) Civic Centre. This event provides a unique opportunity to meet with elected members and a wide range of partners from the public, private and voluntary sector in Poole. There will be stands showcasing the work of partners and the opportunity to find out more about partnership working in Poole.

Public Rights of Way:

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto

Bessborough Road – ditto

Footpath 82 Spur – ditto

Possible Charitable Status for Assn: JS has still to organise Sub-Committee.

Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): WH reported that the work on the garden so far has been carried out by Victoria School. The Eastern    JS/WH Rockery has been cleared and that is the area that will be concentrated on first. There was an article in the Bournemouth Echo, but as yet there had been no volunteers. WH called, yet again, for volunteers as there ought to be some participation by the residents, not only Victoria School. JS said that he would prepare a poster that can be put up on the Library Notice Board, the Village Hall Notice Board and the Post Office Notice Board. Chairman’s note: Since the meeting Wayne Hancock tells me that we have been successful in recruiting about six volunteers.
Daphne Howell and Wayne are holding a meeting for all volunteers at the Sunken Gardens, at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, 23rd June. All welcome!

Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.

Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: JS said that he hoped to have more to report following the next Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 07/07/11.

Localism and Decentralisation Bill: The second reading of the Bill took place in  the House of Lords yesterday (07/06/11).

Hedge at Kenilworth Court – MH reported that as far as the Council are concerned, now that the hedge has been cut back and no longer infringes the highway they will take no further action. An unfortunate consequence of this ‘cutting back’ has meant that it now looks extremely unsightly, but nothing further can be done by the Council. MH will pursue this issue further by contacting the Residents of the flats and garnering their opinions. Chairman’s Note: Concern has been expressed about the white ‘portakabins’ erected on the 3rd floor of this block and investigations are being carried out that these are in accordance with the planning consent granted in 2008.

Poole & Christchurch Bays Shoreline Management Plan – JS directed members’ attention to the website where there is a very good flyer on the study. Roy Pointer    RP will say a few words about this at the next meeting.

3.    NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT Keith Alcroft reported…

5 Excelsior Road (Demolish existing buildings and erect 1 No 4 bed house with integral garage) – Application was registered on 11/05/11 and has been ‘Red- carded’.The Assn will be sending a letter of objection.

Other current planning issues
Rear of 16 Haven Road (Demolish existing extension and erect 1 No 2 bed house with associated parking) – Application refused on 17/05/11.

47A Lindsay Road (Erection of a Class C2 care home for the elderly with associated car parking) – Application registered on 31/03/11. Transportation Services report lodged on 16/05/11.

24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – retrospective application lodged on 24/03/11. The house has not been built in accordance with the plans and the conditions have not been fulfilled.

63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal. (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Site visit took place at 11.15 on 08/06/11.

8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.

60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.

5.    ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total funds as at 31st May    JS amounted to £33,782.45.

6.    ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Former Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – NS said that he was expecting the Chairman to refer to the appeal decision in relation to the 80 bed Care Home at the site, which he had been keeping an eye on. The Inspector had  reversed the Council’s refusal and allowed the appeal. NS expressed his great surprise at this. JS pointed out that he reported on this in the last minutes and there is an article about this in today’s Daily Echo in which the new Chairman of the Planning Committee, Cllr Philip Eades, has expressed his concern too.

Use of Credit Cards by Council Officers – TS reported that due to all the comment in the press about ‘Council credit cards’ he had been informed by Poole’s Chief Executive that NO Poole Councillor has a credit card – this was confirmed by our Ward Councillors present – and the Council Officers are very carefully monitored on    ACTION expenses claimed through their credit cards. However John McBride feels that there  are too many issued credit cards and he is going to review this and reduce the number. PP pointed out that it was the Audit Commission which encouraged the use of credit cards by Local Authorities in the first instance.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7.50 pm.

Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 13th July 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St    All Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)
NB Wine & ‘nibbles’ to be served in the Centre garden at conclusion of meeting

BPCCRA AGM Minutes 14th May 2011

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

HELD AT 10.30am ON SATURDAY, 14th MAY 2011

IN CANFORD CLIFFS VILLAGE HALL

PRESENT:

  • Mr John Sprackling Chairman
  • Mr Wayne Hancock Vice-Chairman
  • Mr Paul Fearnley Hon Treasurer
  • Mr Keith Alcroft Planning Officer
  • Mrs Carol Parkin Secretary/Minutes Secretary
  • Mr John Gunton Magazine Editor
  • Robert Syms MP
  • Cllr Mrs May Haines
  • Cllr Neil Sorton
  • And approx 40 Members/Wardens of the Association

1. WELCOME

The Chairman thanked everyone for their attendance. In particular he welcomed the guests mentioned above. JS said that he had been hoping that Liz Wilkinson, Poole Chief Finance Officer, would be our Guest Speaker but that Mrs Wilkinson had recently advised him that she would not be able to attend as she had a family commitment that could not be re-arranged.  This left it rather too late to find an alternative. JS said that this would provide more time for an open Question and Answer session for members.

2. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Cllr Peter Pawlowski, Terry Stewart, Long Prom Dresses online Michael Bond, Bob & Phyllis Young, Martin Heath, Pat & Laurie Martin, Amanda & Craig Beveridge, Rose Rogers, Dinah Rogers and Ken Sanson, Chairman of the Sandbanks Assn.

3. AGM 2010 MINUTES:  Accuracy & Matters Arising

The Chairman reminded members that the Minutes of the AGM held on 10th May 2010 had been included in the Autumn 2010 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:

Borough of Poole- Local Development Framework – the public consultation on the Poole Site Specific Allocations and Development Management Policies Development Plan Document (DPD) closes on 27/05/11.

JS said that there is some concern that policies H10, BE23, BE24 in the Poole Local Plan are being lost and these are not adequately covered by policy PCS 23 in the Poole Core Strategy.  JS said that, for ease of reference, he would include the text of the relevant policies in the Minutes.  See foot of these Minutes.

Planning Enforcement, Tree Preservation Orders/Tree replacements

147 Banks Road (Felling of five trees) – at the Court hearing on 20/04/11, the two defendants pleaded “Not Guilty” and the case was adjourned until 18th May at 2.00pm at Poole Magistrates Court for a case management hearing.  The date of the trial will be fixed at this Hearing.

23 Ravine Road (Felling of two TPO”d trees) – the defendant pleaded “Not Guilty” Most Popular Evening Dresses online and this case was adjourned for a case management hearing on 13th July at 2.15pm at Poole Magistrates Court when

Mr Hunter will have to appear he is not represented. This hearing will be followed by a trial at Bournemouth Magistrates Court at 10.00am on 25th July.

Heavytree Road – a Council Solicitor has informed JS that the Council is still waiting to hear from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and it is entirely in the hands of the CPS in this case

“Sunken Garden” at Pinecliff Gardens – Work has started on this project.

Public Rights of Way:

Footpath 82 Spur (Off Panorama Road)At its Extraordinary General Meeting on 26/03/11, the Royal Motor Yacht Club members voted overwhelmingly in favour of purchasing the Sandbanks Boatyard and Marina Company for a price up to £1.5m.

There is some commercially sensitive ground still to cover before the purchase can be completed, and the representatives of the RMYC will be trying to sort out a number of issues that the SBMC Ltd has with its neighbours.

Sites in Poole formerly owned by Orb Estates and its subsidiariesThe Association continues to take a close interest in these properties (two of which are on Borough-owned land).

Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – The 3rd instalment of the Employment Contribution of £150,000 due on 01/01/11 is outstanding.  There is a letter from the owners dated 12/05/11 which has been posted on the Planning Application website which refers to an “updated invoice” but no other information is currently available.

Council Tax 2010/2011 As JS mentioned in his report, there are two important programmes offering scope for producing efficiencies and savings – for the benefit of Poole’s council tax payers. Firstly, the Council”s Efficiency Review Programme and, secondly, the Corporate Asset Management Plan 2010-11 as one of our newly elected Ward Councillors, namely Cllr Peter Pawlowski, was the Strategic Director responsible for both schemes, JS said that he was hoping that he would be keeping a close eye on both these projects.

Friends of Poole Park – JS reported that Seven Developments exchanged contracts with owners of the Mezza Luna restaurant in Poole Park some months ago but there has been a delay in reassigning the lease.  JS said that he had been denied sight of the 2007 lease but plans to pursue this via the Information Commissioner.

Poole Borough Council – Committee Dates

JS informed members that they might like to note the following dates for committee meetings in the near future:

The next Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill Area meeting is not due to be held until 27 July.  JS said that one of the first decisions of the Conservative Group in May 2003 was the emasculation of the Area Committees by changing the composition of two Area Committees comprising Canford Cliffs, Penn Hill & Parkstone Wards and Alderney, Newtown and the former Bourne Valley Wards. He had recently “lobbied” newly appointed Cllr Sally Carpenter about the composition of the Area Committees and Sally had replied “Personally I don”t think that area committees work very well and I will raise the issue as soon as I can to get a review”

Reconvened Meeting of Annual Council:                    16 May

Newtown and Parkstone Area Meeting*:                   18 May

Planning Committee:                      26 May

Personalia

Data Protection Officer – JS paid tribute to Stan Alfert who was stepping down as Data Protection Officer having been looking after the Membership database for the last 15/20 years. JS said that he was pleased to say that Stan would continue to attend the Association”s monthly meetings.

Ralph Dymond – JS was sorry to report that Mr Dymond, who was Chairman of the Assn from 1993 until May 1996, passed away on 21/02/11.  Prior to these roles, Mr Dymond was Honorary Secretary.  In more recent years, Mr Dymond has regularly attended the Association”s AGM.

JS also paid tribute to the help and support which he receives from the Association”s President. Terry Stewart.

5.            TREASURER’S REPORT

The income and expenditure for 2010 is broadly in line with that of the previous year and with the budget. This year we made donations of nearly £5,000 to community projects and assistance with legal costs relating to development.

We have £31,000 in the bank to cover any future costs relating to protecting the local environment.

We thank members for their continued support and encourage members if possible to pay subscriptions by standing order or online transfer. If you wish to pay by cheque I have agreed with Barclays that cheques can be made payable to BPCCRA.

In the Autumn we intend to ask members to update their standing order mandates for three reasons:

To transfer all income to our Barclays bank account so that we can close down the redundant Santander account.

To revise payment amounts to our current rate (some members are still paying £1 or £2 p.a. which does not cover the cost of the magazine)

To update our contact information, which is becoming seriously out of date.”

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

Wayne Hancock proposed that John Sprackling continue as Chairman and called for a show of hands to confirm his appointment.

  1. 8. ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE

JS proposed that the following members be elected as the executive committee for the coming year be elected “en bloc”.

John Morrison suggested that we see if there are any nominations for the Executive Committee positions before proceeding as there may be people who wish to be involved.   JS replied that this was of course right and asked the meeting if there were any nominations.  There were none and so the existing Executive Committee were unanimously elected en bloc.

A show of hands carried the motion.

President                                     Terry Stewart

Chairman                                     John Sprackling

Vice Chairman                             Wayne Hancock

Treasurer                                     Paul Fearnley

Membership Secretary                Michael Bond

Planning Officer                           Keith Alcroft

Secretary/Minute Secretary         Carol Parkin

Magazine Editor                           John Gunton

Magazine Advertising                   Bob Young

7.    OPEN FORUM

JS welcomed Robert Syms MP who then proceeded to give a short talk to the meeting.  He began by saying that it is just over a year since the present government was formed, and gave a brief history of how it came into being as a coalition.   He explained that the Lib Dems were a relative small number in government in Mrs Thatcher’s day but now have quite a good representation.  It was therefore necessary to form a coalition with the Conservative Party to give a majority government in order to get on with the job of sorting out the economic mess which they are now doing.  Even so he expects the country’s debt to have doubled and income and expenditure to remain at the same level at the end of the present government’s five year period.

This period of austerity unfortunately means that there have to be cuts and there have had to be some tough decisions on where these will take place.

His second point is the problem we have always had with our benefits system.  A large number of people who are capable of work find that it is more economically viable to remain on the benefits system.  The unskilled jobs that have been created have been filled mainly with immigrants.  So the other thing that has to be done by the current Government is Welfare Reform.  He then went on to explain that the Government plan in order that when an unemployed person takes a job they remains better off by retaining some of their benefits which will be phased out over time.

The third issue that he went on to mention was immigration.  The cap that will be brought in will try to restore the immigration system to normality where there is a cap on low-skilled persons but the opportunity remains to allow immigration of required skilled persons.

The final point he brought up was the ‘police’ who are tied up in an enormous amount of bureaucracy.  The issue is not the number of police we have, but rather what we do with our police officers.  One of the Government’s objectives is to cut the amount of bureaucracy.

He ended by saying that he hoped that we would be in better shape next May.

JS then asked if there were any questions for Mr. Syms.

Denis Riley asked when the proposals to reduce the number of MPs from 650 to 600 would be put into effect.

Robert Syms replied that the legislation has already been passed and that probably would take effect by the end of this year or the beginning of next year and pointed out that this was not an easy task.

Roy Pointer then asked Mr. Syms to comment on the Government’s approach to the changes in the NHS and asked for his views as to why the current system could not be made to work super efficiently.

Mr. Syms answered by saying that the current Government intends to maintain the staffing levels of the NHS, and pointed out that the last Government made major changes without making any great announcements.  He feels that devolving decisions and money down to small units is the best way forward, and he thinks it right that the Government should pause to listen to what people are saying.

A member said that he is getting the impression – on the business of education and the NHS – that there is a lot of ‘cackhandedness’ going on.  Why does the Government make themselves easy targets for the other side of the house?

Mr. Syms replied that generally people are aware of the difficulties and challenges beforehand but sometimes there is unexpected public opposition as in the NHS.  He doesn’t feel that the Government on the whole has been cack-handed, but admits that in the case of the NHS and the forest issue they have not been too good.  He pointed out that the last Government sold 40,000 acres of forestry and never told anybody.  It is necessary when making changes to say why changes have to be made and what the Government has not done, regarding the NHS, is to fully explain the benefits of turning it upside down.  Some people in Government are good communicators whilst others just get on with the job and get into trouble. Mr. Syms doesn’t feel that the benefits were explained clearly.

A member then asked what was going to be done about Nick Clegg who has said publicly that he is totally opposed to the changes in the NHS.

Mr. Syms answered by saying that they just have to work together, and this means compromise.

Most of the time most of the Lib.Dems have voted for most of what the Government is doing.

John Gunton asked what does Mr. Syms think of the idea of ‘elected Police Commissioners’.

Mr. Syms replied by saying that to be absolutely honest he wasn’t sure.  For instance, if all the Police Commissioners were representatives of the BNP there would be problems.  So it really depends on the sort of person who wishes to stand for election to a Police Commissioner.  They would presumably all be sensible people, but there is always a risk that policing would become politicised.

John Gunton’s answer to this is to ‘trust the electorate’

Mr. Syms then gave the example of the elected mayor in London working quite well, whilst in Stoke on Trent the post was abolished and one or two other areas where it hasn’t worked out.  Therefore he has reservations.

Kevin Goldstein-Jackson asked was it true that Poole Business rates were paid to Central Government and even part of Poole Council rates, as this seems to mean that in effect we are subsidising others.

The short answer to this is ‘yes’.  All the business rates from across the UK go into one pot and are re-allocated.  Some areas benefit from this and some don’t.  Mr. Syms doesn’t know whether Poole benefits or not and so if it would be better to have control of our own business rates.  He suspects that it wouldn’t make a great deal of difference.  On the subject of Council rates there is something called the Council Tax Subsidy system where out of every £5 a tenant pays the council, £1 is put into a general pot, and out of this pot poorer councils – mainly Central London and other large cities – get subsidies.  Mr. Syms himself is very unhappy about this as it means the poor areas of Poole are subsidising other authorities.   This is a very complicated area which has gone on for years and needs reforming.

A member then asked ‘why are we constantly denied a referendum on the EU?’

Mr. Syms feels that before this is done, the most sensible thing for any government to do is to have a cost/benefit analysis to determine the benefits of Britain remaining in the EU.  At some point we may well have to have a referendum, but he doesn’t think that this point has been reached yet.  In the short term we have to get a much better financial agreement, and also to stop any further powers going to Europe.

JS thanked Robert Syms and brought the question/answer session to a close.

8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

JS said that over 200 members receive the Minutes of the Association”s monthly meetings by e-mail   but approx 80 receive these by post.  This is costing the Association approximately £100/month for printing and postage.

This was discussed at a monthly meeting a little while ago and the meeting agreed to bring this up at the AGM with two options.

  • Firstly to charge these members an additional cost to cover the minutes, and
  • Secondly for these members to actively ‘opt in’ to being on the distribution list by contacting either JS or CP to confirm that they still require to receive these minutes, as there may be members who no longer wish to receive them.  If a member actively ‘opts-in’ his/her/their name will remain on the distribution list.

Stan Alfert asked the Chairman to confirm the costs per member.  JS replied that there were approximately 80 members receiving the minutes by mail and the cost was about £100 a month, to which SA remarked that the cost per month per member was approximately three times the amount of the yearly subscription subscription.

John Morrison said that he thinks the ‘opt-in’ idea is eminently suitable as he would not wish to exclude members on the basis that they do not have an e mail.

John Gunton suggested putting a copy of the minutes up in the Library.  JS said that this could certainly be done.

Kevin Goldstein-Jackson asked who these members were and JS reiterated that they were members who did not have access to the Internet.  It was suggested that copies of the previous minutes be available at meetings.

This will be one.

JS agreed that in the first instance we ask the members who receive minutes by mail to ‘opt-in’  to see if this eliminates any of them.

John Porter asked was it in fact the case that Mark Howell (PPP) declined to take up the offer of the Chairmanship of the Planning Committee, as reported in the Echo?

Neil Sorton said that this was an agreed Press Statement and he believed it to be the case.

John Morrison brought up the subject of Area Committees as he did not feel that they were working as they should.  Although these meetings are meant to be an opportunity for residents to raise concerns, the procedure for doing so is not clear.  This view was also expressed by a resident at the last Canford Cliffs & Penn Hill Area Committee meeting.

Ian Walker asked Robert Syms to comment on how the Localism Bill will affect the planning in Poole.

Mr. Syms replied that to comment fully on this would take a whole Seminar.  Essentially it will mean involving much smaller communities in Poole in the planning process, which he feels is a good thing.  He suggests that when it becomes law, we should try to arrange for somebody who is much more “au fait” with the situation to come and give us a talk.  He hopes that it will lead to better planning.

John Porter said that he would be extremely interested to know why Seven Developments have taken over the Mezza Luna restaurant in Poole Park.  He has not so far been able to get any information from Poole Council and wonders if this is a ‘done deal’.

May Haines replied that she doesn’t know if this is a ‘done deal’.  Her understanding is that if Mezza Luna is classed as a restaurant, chances are that it would have to remain as such.  But as she hasn’t researched this subject she can’t tell us what exactly the situation is.

JS said that he was watching this situation closely.

John Gunton requested that people let him know if they have articles or pictures for the magazine.

JS thanked John Gunton for distributing the magazine.

Bob Milligan asked Mr. Syms if he could comment on the latest situation on the MP’s expenses fiasco.

Robert Syms replied that a system was set up at the end of last Parliament and this has caused a lot of upset for the new members.  However, now it has got much better, even though it is still not perfect.

9. REFRESHMENTS

There being no further questions, the Chairman closed the meeting at 11.45am and invited members to stay for refreshments.

John Sprackling

Chairman

NOTE FOR ALL MEMBERS WHO RECEIVE THESE MINUTES BY ORDINARY MAIL.

If you still wish to receive these minutes through Royal Mail on a monthly basis could you please inform either John Sprackling (751553) or Carol Parkin (706591).

If you do not contact either John or Carol your name will be removed from the Royal Mail distribution system and you will no longer receive minutes by this route. If you receive the minutes by email, these will continue to be distributed as at present.

This will ensure that only the members who wish to receive the monthly minutes by Royal Mail or by Email will continue to do so.

H10 Low density housing

Within the areas of low density housing shown on the proposals map, residential development will take the form of single detached dwellings in substantial plots which reflect the character of the area., the scale, form, siting and plot coverage of new dwellings in these areas should respect their open and/or treed character.

BE23 Conservation Areas – Low density development

Within The Avenue, Branksome Park, Brunstead Road, Canford Cliffs and Evening Hill Conservation Areas, residential development should take the form of single household detached dwellings on sites of a size consistent with that existing in the area.

BE24 Conservation Areas – Character

Within The Avenue, Beach Road, Branksome Park, Brunstead Road, Canford Cliffs, North Canford Cliffs and Evening Hill Conservation Areas, proposals for development, including changes of use from residential to institutional and other non-residential uses, or extensions to properties already in those uses, will not be permitted where the character of the area will be adversely affected by the bulk, appearance, height, massing, design, proximity to boundaries, effect upon existing trees, setting, removal of hedgerows along the boundaries of properties and the hard surfacing of garden areas for car parking.

PCS 23 – LOCAL DISTINCTIVENESS

Proposals for development will exhibit a high standard of design and will complement or enhance Poole’s character, local identity and cultural vitality. To meet these requirements, development will be permitted provided that:

A: it adheres to the following character and design principles:

i. it respects the setting and character of the site, surrounding area and adjoining buildings by virtue of its function, siting, landscaping and amenity space, scale, density, massing, height, design details, materials and appearance;

ii. public spaces and routes through sites are planned as an integral part of the overall development;

iii. doors and windows face onto public space, contributing to the appearance of the area and the safety of public spaces;

iv. in areas of commercial use, the arrangement of accesses and uses contribute to the vitality of the space onto which they face;

  1. any external lighting does not harm the character or appearance of the area;

B: in the Town Centre and Associated Waterfronts:

i. building designs, quay walls, streetscapes and flood defences contribute positively to the urban waterfront character of Poole, having regard to the wider landscapes of Poole Harbour, the Dorset AONB and Holes Bay;

ii. new development on Poole Quay respects the historic environment, reflects traditional plot divisions, retains and enhances historic alleyways and street patterns and, where opportunities exist, provides new alleyways;

iii. proposals demonstrate how they enhance townscape quality, character and vitality of the area;

iv. it assists in reducing the dominance and severance of roads at key locations;

it preserves or enhances Listed Buildings and their settings, Conservation Areas, and features of historical or architectural interest, including views and settings of landmark buildings;

C: in Other Waterfront Areas:

i. it respects the shoreline character of the area, including the wider landscape of Poole Harbour, Poole Bay and the Dorset Area of Natural Beauty;

ii. in the vicinities of Holes Bay, Upton Marsh/Lytchett Bay and Upton Country Park, it does not have a detrimental impact upon the wider landscape character of these areas or the Town Centre;

iii. at Sandbanks, the uniform spacing and height of buildings on the Causeway is not disrupted, and harbour views through building gaps, and the mature wooded character and established beachline on the peninsula are retained;

iv. the setting of the sandspit is not harmed by overly dominant buildings or insensitive designs;

v. the peninsula’s interior and Conservation Area retains its character of predominantly detached houses;

D: Town and Local Centres:

i. it does not undermine the principal retail and community functions or vitality of the centre;

ii. shop fronts, signs and building frontages are high in quality and enhance the character of the centre;

iii. it supports the improvement and enhancement of the local centre by contributing to the delivery of:

a. new, high-quality paving, street furniture and lighting along pedestrian routes and in public squares / spaces;

b. hard and soft landscaping, including tree planting;

c. a reduction in the severance caused by roads in the local centre through the sensitive design of pedestrian crossings, parking areas, railings and other barriers, and traffic management measures;

d. better facilities and/or meeting places for young people;

e. the incorporation of public art as an intrinsic component of environmental enhancements;

E: within or visible from County Landscape Areas:

i. hedgerows and mature trees along roads are retained;

ii. it does not have a detrimental impact upon the County Landscape Areas, having regard to:

a. the coastal setting of Poole Bay Cliffs, Poole Harbour/ Holes Bay and Upton/Lytchett Bay Marsh, and associated distant views;

b. the setting of settlements, Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings within the wider landscape context of North Poole Heath/Farm Fringe, Merley/Canford River Terrace and Lower Stour Valley;

c. the open heathland character of Corfe Hills Heath and Canford Heath;

d. the countryside character of Upton Park and Farmland;

F: for sites containing or adjacent to Trees, Open Spaces and Woodlands:

i. it retains woodlands and mature trees and tree belts, particularly where such trees form a distinctive edge, ridge or canopy or provide an important enclosure for public spaces;

ii. it respects the setting and character of natural areas and viewpoints, including Compton Acres, Luscombe Valley, the Harbour, Poole Bay and Evening Hill;

iii. it does not have a detrimental impact upon the character of parks or other open spaces; and

G: within or adjacent to Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings:

i. it preserves or enhances the character of Conservation Areas and retains important historical or architectural features;

ii. it does not have a detrimental impact upon Listed Buildings, their curtilage or setting within a wider landscape context;

iii. it does not detract from landmark buildings or important views of these.

In those areas subject to significant change, where proposals are likely to change the “sense of place”, regard should be had to their setting and character, and in particular developments should positively reflect the overarching vision for the area. Innovative and high quality design should contribute to a significant enhancement of these areas

BPCCRA Minutes April 13th 2011

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

HELD ON WEDNESDAY 13th APRIL 2011 AT 7.30PM

IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:Parajumpers Sverige

  • John Sprackling Chairman
  • Stan Alfert Data Protection Officer
  • Carol Parkin Secretary
  • John Gunton Magazine Editor
  • Bob Young Magazine Advertising
  • Cllr Mrs Carole Deas Ward Councillor
  • Cllr Mrs May Haines ditto
  • Cllr Neil Sorton ditto
  • Approx 30 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES
JS welcomed Cllrs Mrs Carole Deas & Neil Sorton – Cllr Mrs May Haines would be arriving later . Also, David Baker (Liberal Democrat), Susanna Carvell & Ian Walker, standing as Independent candidates at next month’s Local Election.

Apologies: Apologies received from Keith Alcroft, Chris Stracey, Roy Pointer, Anthony Vickery, Rose Rogers Most Popular Prom Dresses and Ken Sanson, Chairman, Sandbanks Association. Also from the following prospective candidates at next month’s Local Election.
Avril King (UK Independence Party) – Ms King only read her invitation when she arrived home today but unable to attend as she has another residents’ meeting this evening.
Peter Pawlowski (Conservative Party) – Mr Pawlowski sent his apologies as he has a prior engagement, which is a long-standing commitment on his part and he is unable to rearrange it.

Accuracy: Parajumpers Jacka Herr JS said that he would sign the Mother of the Bride Dresses Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting held on 09 MARCH 2011.

2. MATTERS ARISING

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1. Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) developmen t – No new developments
2. Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane (Erect an 80-bed care home) – JS reported that the Council faced a formidable team at last week’s four day Public Inquiry, including a Barrister, Christopher Young of No 5 Chambers, who called five witnesses to give evidence. Mentnor must have spent an absolute fortune on this appeal. At the Inquiry, the Inspector was informed that the appellants only submitted
their evidence to the Council on the Friday before the Inquiry started but she decided that the evidence should stand and that there would be no adjournment for the Council to consider it. This inevitably placed the Council in a difficult position and did not have available someone from Adult Social Services who was able to give evidence. This is ‘bad form’ from the appellant’s side but something that was out of the Council’s control.
3. Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – No new developments
4. Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto
5. Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – ditto
6. Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 440 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – ditto.

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
JS reported that he and his wife had attended the Hearing at Poole Magistrates Court on23/03/11 regarding the damage to four Corsican pines at 147 Banks Road. This case has been adjourned until next Wednesday (20/04/11) when certain other high profile tree cases are due to be heard at the same time. JS encouraged other members to show to the Magistrates that residents fully support Poole’s Planning Enforcement Team in pursuing prosecutions of offenders for the unauthorised felling of trees etc
Victoria Education Centre (St Aldhelms Road entrance) – The school has carried out some suitable planting but nothing else yet
19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – This property has been sold ‘subject to contract’. The Local Planning Authority has a charge on the property and the Enforcement Officer has asked that the prospective purchaser be advised of the charge and the legal requirement to plant a replacement tree to a specification detailed in the tree replacement notice
17 Over Links Drive (Application to demolish existing and erect 2 detached houses granted on 31/01/08 but number of conditions should have been complied with before this development commenced) The two new buildings design and scale, including height, accord with the approved drawings, although some additional high level sky lights have been added to both and a window in the dormer features added, also at high level. The Enforcement Officer is inviting a minor amendment application for these additional windows Current planning enforcement issues
1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) – revised retrospective application registered on 19/02/11.
2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) – No new developments.
55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto
Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) – No new developments.

Community Working Group (CWG):

Wayne Hancock is the Association’s representative and will be attending the next Community Working Group meeting on Wednesday 4th May. JS invited members to contact WH, if they had any issues that they would like him to take up.

Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report:

WM reported that the yearend projected underspend was £523,000 and up to 28th February 2011, 85.7% of the budget had been spent. The pressures are still there for future years and there are still quite a few matters outstanding, which have been outstanding for some months.

Poole Partnership – JS reported that at the Cabinet meeting on 16/03/11, Members approved the following allocations from the residual Poole Partnership resources:
(a) £52,800 towards the setting up of a Poole Communities Fund by the Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Community Foundation;
(b) £15,000 to set up a separate fund hosted by the Council to support the voluntary and community sector during 2011/12. It is proposed that this be administered through the Council’s Grant Panel process on the advice of officers from Poole Council for Voluntary Service and the Council.

Public Rights of Way:
Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.
Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto
Bessborough Road – ditto
Footpath 82 Spur – At its Extraordinary General Meeting on 26/03/11, the The Royal Motor Yacht Club members voted overwhelmingly in favour of purchasing the Sandbanks Boatyard and Marina Company for a price up to £1.5m. There is some commercially sensitive ground still to cover before the purchase can be completed, and the representatives of the RMYC will be trying to sort out a number of issues that the SBMC Ltd has with its neighbours.
Possible Charitable Status for Assn:

JS said that Paul Fearnley, the Association’s Hon Treasurer, has recently written to him to say that the registering of the Association as a Charity has been on the rolling agenda for some time. The main advantage in doing so is that we could reclaim the basic rate income tax paid by the donor on all our subscription income. This would increase our revenue significantly. If the Association did this, it would have to have a declaration from each member willing to Gift-Aid the subscriptions. If, as is planned, the Association will be asking members to fill out a new application form and post it to us in the Autumn, it would be very sensible to cover this aspect at the same time. Tony Clayton has offered to help with the Sub-Committee, when this is set up.

Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden):

WH reported that he had now received the signed and sealed licence from the Borough of Poole. Simon Legg has just returned from holiday and WH will arrange a meeting at the sunken gardens, to discuss responsibilities etc. Then, with the assistance of the Victoria Education Centre, the Association can begin the clearance of the eastern rockery. JS pointed out that this effort is a ‘feather in our cap’ as we are the first Resident’s Assn. to
take on a project involving council land – the sunken garden in Pinecliff Gardens which, at the moment, does not looks particularly attractive. CD interposed at this point and stated that she and WH had been working hard on this with the help of the Victoria Education Centre. Simon. Legg has agreed to try to get some press coverage for this. CD also said that she has been speaking with the officer at the Council dealing with the
Canford Cliffs Play Area and he said that extra money will be available for exercise equipment for adults. She ended by thanking WH for working so hard on this and Daphne Howell, who first mooted the idea.

Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.

Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme:

JS said that he had advised MH that he was disappointed that the entry for the Efficiency Review Programme Monitoring report in the Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview and Scrutiny Committee Forward Plan simply says ”TBA’.

Localism and Decentralisation Bill: The first 17 communities to test neighbourhood planning, a key feature of the Localism Bill, have been named and includes Cerne Abbas.

Hedge at Kenilworth Court

JS reported that the hedge had been cut back but looked rather unsightly because the hedge on Haven Road now consisted of dead branches.

3. NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
In the absence of Keith Alcroft, JS reported…
Land at 8 Buccleuch Road (Creation of 1 No. new dwelling with 2 No. off road parking spaces) – Application granted by Planning Committee on 17/03/11, subject to conditions.
7 Ventry Close (Erection of 1no. dwelling and rationalisation of garage accommodation to no 7 Ventry Close) – Application granted by Planning Committee on 17/03/11, subject to Upfront Payment’.
Rear of 16 Haven Road (Demolish existing extension and erect 1 No 2 bed house with associated parking) – Application registered on 16/03/11
47A Lindsay Road (Erection of a Class C2 care home for the elderly with associated car parking) – Application registered on 31/03/11

Other current planning issues
63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Interested party comments were required by 14/03/11.
8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application. An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.
60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.

4. REPORT RE CANFORD CLIFFS & PENN HILL AREA COMMITTEE MEETING –

JS reported that the topics discussed at the meeting included…
· Transportation budget 2011/12
· Planning Obligations (Recreational contributions) update
· Local Development Framework Public Consultations (A few copies of the two
Development Plan Documents were available at the meeting.
A lively discussion also took place about possible increases in admission numbers at Courthill School from September 2013.

5. ACCOUNTS TO DATE

JS reported that the total funds as at 31st March amounted to £34,684.16

6. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

BPCCRA AGM on 14/05/11 in Canford Cliffs Village Hall – John Gunton said that he hopes to distribute the Spring Magazine at the beginning of next week. JS has invited Liz Wilkinson, Poole’s Chief Finance Officer, to be the Guest Speaker at the Association’s AGM and is currently awaiting confirmation that she will attend.
24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) –
Carol Parkin reported that a retrospective Planning Application had been lodged on 24/03/11.
This has been lodged as the house has not been built according to the plans which were
passed and the conditions were not fulfilled.
Presentations by the prospective candidates standing in Canford Cliffs Ward – JS said that each candidates would be allowed to speak for two minutes in order to outline their hopes/aims and that there would be no follow-up questions, although would be an opportunity for members to meet candidates at the end of the meeting, Each candidate was introduced in alphabetical order.
David Baker – Liberal Democrat.
David began saying that he joined the Liberal Democrats as he thought they offered the fairest view towards people and people are what he is interested in. He is a member of BPCCRA and Chairman of one of the blocks of flats in the ward. He has served as a Councillor on Essex County Council for four years, prior to moving here. He is concerned that Poole Council are cutting services to both young and old, and wishes to ensure that residents’ money is spent wisely.
Susanna Carvell – Independent
After introducing herself, Susanna went on to say that just over one year ago she attended a Planning committee meeting. The application was refused by a margin of one vote, due to Carole Deas’ presentation, her hard work and commitment. She now supports Carole and that is why she is standing as an Independent candidate. She cares about people and seeks to change the climate at the Town Hall.
Carole Deas – Independent
Carole said that, although she is a Conservative, she is standing as an Independent candidate and has represented the Ward for the last eight years. She is particularly keen on Planning, especially in the Ward as she believes this is one of the nicest areas in Poole. She believes that the Planning Department have let down the residents of this Ward, and we have seen many applications which should never have happened. Precedents have been set and she has been fighting very hard to stop this from happening in the future. She would like change now and appeals for votes for the Independent candidates and promises that they will not let
us down.
May Haines – Conservative
May began by thanking the Chairman and members for giving her the opportunity to address the meeting. Since being elected in 2007 she has worked very closely with this Association and others dealing with local authority matters. A survey sent out last year to residents showed that the top issues concerning people were litter, dog fouling, speeding, congestion
and parking. Planning remains a major issue and she works with the Associations to resist any inappropriate planning. She pointed out that she has experience of this. She seeks to retain weekly black bin collections, as bi-weekly collections or less which some areas have are not popular. To sum up she said that she, Neil Sorton and Peter Pawowski are the Conservative team for this Ward and she would like the support of the residents.
Neil Sorton – Conservative
Neil introduced himself saying that he had been a Canford Cliffs Ward Councillor since 1999. Over the years he has acquired a deep knowledge of the problems and aspirations of the Ward. Last year he took over responsibility for Housing and Leisure, which includes open spaces and beaches and being a Ward Councillor he takes a special interest in this. He went on to say that his first priority is to keep down the level of Council Tax. Along with Councillor Haines he has an excellent record for attending Council meetings, Residents’ meetings and other groups such as Neighbourhood Watch. He has a large case load, much of which relates to Planning which he knows is of great interest and concern to residents. He points out that ultimately Poole’s planners are not masters in their own house as planning refusal by the council can be overturned by government appointed Planning Inspectors. He ended by saying that he and his fellow Conservative Ward Councillors will continue to endeavour to solve the problems in the Ward such as speeding, traffic congestion and anti-social behaviour, while seeking to protect front-line services, and he asks for support for himself, May Haines and Peter Palowski.
Ian Walker – Independent
Ian began by saying that he was very pleased to be able to address the meeting directly and to tell us the reason he is standing as an Independent candidate. As a resident for many years, he has become increasingly concerned about the grotesque over-development of our area. He accepts that this is a very beautiful place to live and that there is a need for additional housing stock, but finds it totally unacceptable that quality housing is being
demolished to allow for the building of hideous properties and blocks of flats which are out of character with the area. He finds it difficult to reconcile Poole Council’s policy of using resources carefully with the demolition of houses that are less than 10 years old. He went on to say that, whilst he welcomes the Localism Bill, he is concerned that more power will be given to a small elite of Councillors who have served far too long. He ended by showing the residents a flyer for an Open Day for a block of four flats built in-between two houses. He said that this is happening all the time and we must put a stop to it.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.45 pm.

Date of next Meeting: AGM on Saturday 14th May 2011 in Canford Cliffs Village Hall at 10.30am

BPCCRA Minutes 9th March 2011

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

HELD ON WEDNESDAY 9th    MARCH 2011 AT 7.30PM

IN THE MAIN HALL, BRANKSOME ST. ALDHELM’S PARISH CENTRE

PRESENT:

  • John Sprackling Chairman
  • Keith Alcroft Planning OFficer
  • Stan Alfert Data Protection Officer
  • Carol Parkin Secretary
  • Cllr Mrs May Haines Ward Councillor
  • Cllr Neil Sorton ditto
  • Approx 15 Members/Wardens

1. APOLOGIES AND ACCURACY OF MINUTES

JS welcomed Cllrs Mrs Haines and Neil Sorton and those present.
Apologies: Apologies received from Terry Stewart & Wayne Hancock who are attending the Community Working Group AGM, Michael Bond, Bob & Phyllis Young, William Mutlow & Ken Sanson, Chairman, Sandbanks Assn.
Accuracy: JS said that he would sign the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the    JS meeting held on 09 FEBRUARY 2011.

2. MATTERS ARISING

Poole Pottery/Old Orchard/Quay Thistle Hotel sites update: JS reported…
1.    Quayside (former Dolphin Quays) development – No new developments

2.    Poole Pottery factory buildings in Sopers Lane – ditto.

3.    Former Poole Pottery & Swan Inn site – ditto

4.    Quay Thistle Hotel site – ditto

5.    Old Orchard House. 39-61 High Street – The 3rd installment of the Employment Contribution of £150,000 which was due on 01/01/11 is outstanding.
Chairman’s note: The applicant has approached the Council requesting to vary the phased payment schedule, in light of the economic climate. The Local Planning Authority is currently considering the request, but to date no decision has been made.

6.    Land at West Quay Road (Mixed use regeneration and new public quayside to include; the demolition of a listed gate post and all existing buildings on site; the redevelopment of the site with 440 residential units provided in six apartment blocks with basement parking and courtyard) – The Agents have asked for an extension of the determination period until 31/07/11.

Planning Enforcement, TPOs/Tree replacements – update:
JS reported…

Current planning enforcement issues

Victoria Education Centre (St Aldhelms Road entrance) – There are a number of contraventions which should be addressed

1 Cliff Drive (Addition of four additional windows where there was one large one before) revised retrospective application registered on 19/02/11.

2 Compton Avenue & 93 Lilliput Road (Boundary treatment) – An Enforcement Order is to be issued shortly.

19 Mornish Road (Tree replacement) – No new developments.

55 Canford Cliffs Road (Removal of the gates, railings, fence and hedge, and the erection of a low stone wall with planting behind) – ditto

24 Ravine Road (Overhang on right hand side of garage is 800mm but should be 200mm) – ditto

Land adj to 20A Chaddesley Glen (Land be reinstated) –

Community Working Group (CWG): JS said that he will circulate the Minutes of the CWG meeting on 26/01/11 with the Minutes of this meeting.

Poole Beaches and Coastal Defences: Martin Heath attended the Public Exhibition – Poole Bay, Poole Harbour and Wareham Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy.

MH reported that the exhibition was very interesting, describing the flooding problems That are likely to occur in the future due to climate change if nothing is done to protect the coastline. No specific strategies were described, although from conversations it would seem that more rock groynes might the most effective solution. Information from the exhibition is available on the Environment Agency website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/121331.aspx

Council Tax 2010/11 & Council’s Budget Monitoring report: JS reported that Liz Wilkinson, the Council’s Chief Financial Officer, had given a presentation to the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group at its meeting on Monday and JS said that he would include Terry Stewart’s note on this in the Minutes.

•    To understand the Council’s financial position, Liz recommended:

•    Budget Paper: Financial Strategy for Council.

•    Budget Book: Detailed Budget by Department.

•    Transparency Website: for details on what has been spent.

•    Virement is a transfer of budgeted money between Departments or Cost Centres. Above £25,000 needs Portfolio Holder approval.

•    Above £500,000 needs full Council approval.

•    Her role involves looking after the fiduciary interests of both current and future taxpayers. Responsible for Risk Management.

•    Section 114 responsibility : stops Council doing anything illegal.

•    Guardian & conscience of the Council, limiting illegal activity.

•    She personally appointed Sir Michael Pitt, after only 2 weeks in post. Meeting told her that not all Sir Michael Pitt’s recommendations implemented :

•    Cabinet Member still sitting as substitutes on Planning Committee.

•    Need for change in Planning Committee Chairman.

•    Councillors not “re-doubling efforts” to communicate.

•    Objective of 2011-2 Budget to protect front line services, mostly achieved.

•    168 full time equivalent posts to be reduced – only about 30 forced redundancies.

•    Finance Dept. lost 7.8 posts. Govt. has demanded the end of School Advisers. Poole Partnership – There was no report on Monday’s State of the Area Debate (an annual meeting of the Council jointly organised with Poole Partnership) as this clashed with the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group meeting.

Roland Cunnell felt that funding should be provided by the Council to promote enterprise and tourism, which will benefit the area. NS pointed out that a fair amount is being done at the moment and it is estimated that Tourism creates about 5,000 jobs in hotels, restaurants, pubs etc., and produces about £200m to the local economy.

Poole Partnership

There was no report on Monday’s State of the Area Debate (an annual meeting of the Council jointly organised with Poole Partnership) as this clashed with the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group meeting.

Public Rights of Way:

Westminster Road end of Dalkeith Road – No new developments.

Buccleuch Road to Lakeside Road – ditto

Bessborough Road – ditto

Footpath 82 Spur – JS is informed that Sandbanks Boatyard & Marina Co. Ltd. did appeal against the Definitive Modification Order to add Footpath 82 Spur prior to the deadline on 26/11/10. The Sandbanks Assn were not informed of this.
Chairman’s note: The Royal Motor Yacht Club are holding an Extraordinary General Meeting on 26/03/11 to discuss a proposal to buy Sandbanks Boatyard & Marina facilities

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

Canford Cliffs Play Area/Pinecliff Gardens (Sunken garden): JS reported that the draft licence agreement in connection with the Sunken garden has been returned to the    JS/WH Council with the Assn’s corrections and comments.
3.8.2 of the Licence requires the Assn to provide Public Liability cover against loss damage or injury to persons or the property of any person arising out of or in connection with the Agreement for a sum of not less than £5m. To move things along, JS said that he had sent an e-mail to join the BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) so that the Assn can take advantage of the Zurich insurance scheme which provides the necessary cover. This will cost £191.76, including the membership fee of £35. The application has been processed it and the Assn’s insurance started on Friday 4th March.
SA raised the question of the wording of the Policy being checked to make sure it is suitable. Will the Council be checking it?    JS will ask the Council for confirmation that the Policy is suitable for our needs.
Chairman’s Note: The Head of Leisure Services has agreed to the Daily Echo reporting and photographing the signing of the lease, the first in Poole.

Public Liability Insurance (PLI) – JS is pursuing.

Poole Council’s Efficiency Review Programme: JS said that Liz Wilkinson, Poole’s chief Finance Officer is responsible for this and it is hoped that Members will be up-dated    MH about this at the next Council Efficiency and Effectiveness Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 07/04/11.

Localism and Decentralisation Bill: JS reported that a number of changes are being    JS/TS made to the Bill as it works its way through Parliament.

3.    NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

JS reported that Keith Alcroft had, once again, not been contacted about any planning  application during the course of the month.
Land at 8 Buccleuch Road (Creation of 1 No. new dwelling with 2 No. off road parking    All spaces) – To be determined by the Planning Committee at its meeting on 17/03/11. The officer’s recommendation is to ‘Grant subject to Upfront Payment’.

7 Ventry Close (Erection of 1no. dwelling and rationalisation of garage accommodation to no 7 Ventry Close) – To be determined by the Planning Committee at its meeting on 17/03/11. The officer’s recommendation is to ‘Grant subject to conditions’.
The debate about 3 Maxwell Road (Demolish existing building and erect 1 pair of semi- detached 4 bed houses) rumbles on. The Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting on 20/01/11 do not refer to any reasons for overturning the officer’s decision being agreed before the vote. According to Poole Council’s Constitution the correct procedure, which should have been followed, is as follows
“Where a Committee indicates that it intends to make a decision which is contrary to an Officer recommendation, clear, precise and convincing reasons for doing so must be set out in advance of a decision being taken, and a detailed minute of the decision, incorporating these reasons subsequently placed on the application file’.
However, at the Southern Poole Chairmens’ Liaison Group meeting on Monday, members present were advised that the Canford Cliffs Land Society have decided not to pursue the complaint about the decision re 3 Maxwell Road. JS didn’t make a note of what was said but the gist of it was that the Society have taken legal opinion and, whilst the Planning Committee’s decision may be unsafe, there are insufficient grounds to pursue this through the Court.

17 Over Links Drive (Application to demolish existing and erect 2 detached houses granted on 31/01/08 but number of conditions should have been complied with before this development commenced)

Roland Cunnell asked had there been any developments, i.e. conditions being compliedwith before the development commenced, as no conditions had been complied with and the development has already been built.    The two houses that have been built have an extra floor. Nobody from the Council appears to have taken any action regarding these contraventions and RC asks how has this been allowed to happen?    JS said that this was a matter for one the Penn Hill Ward Councillors that he would contact Cllr Ron Parker saying that this matter had been raised at our meeting. The site also falls within the area covered by Dorset Lake Residents’ Assn.

3 Eaton Road (Tree works application to fell mature trees) – Mr and Mrs Hairsine of 10 Ormonde Road sought the Assn’s support in opposing this application and MH reported that this application had been refused.

Other current planning issues

63 Haven Road (Outline application to erect four detached houses with parking/garaging provisions and formation of vehicular accesses (existing dwelling to be demolished)- subject to ‘Written representations’ appeal (APP/Q1255/A/11/2145209). Interested party comments were required by 14/03/11.

8 Shore Road – BPCCRA will continue to monitor possible tree work application.    An entrance has been created on the Haven Road side of this property. This property is up for sale at ‘offers’ in excess of £2m.

60A Kings Avenue (Tree Replacement Notices to replant 3 Scots Pines) – Confirmation awaited that the Council’s Arboriculturist visited both 60 and 60a to check tree issues and that letters sent to the owners requesting planting under Treework/Planning conditions.

6.    ACCOUNTS TO DATE – JS reported that the total funds as at 31st February amounted to £34,529.09
S8.    ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Ralph Dymond – JS said that he was sorry to report that Mr Dymond, who was Chairman of the Assn from (?)1993 until May 1996, passed away on 21/02/11. Mr Dymond was previously Hon Sec.
SA said that he remembers Mr. Dymond well and, in fact, once he was no longer Chairman of the Association he regularly attended the AGM.

Hedge at Kenilworth Court – MH reported that she has not been able to get hold of the Officer dealing with this. She drives past Kenilworth each week and reports that nothing has yet happened regarding the hedge.

BPCCRA AGM on 14/05/11 in Canford Cliffs Village Hall – It is planned that the Spring Magazine will be available for collection on 14/15th April, John Gunton would like to have copy for the magazine by Friday 18th March at the very latest.
JS has invited Liz Wilkinson, Poole’s Chief Finance Officer, to be the Assn’s Guest Speaker at our AGM to give a talk about the areas of uncertainty and risk which are likely to add further pressures into the Council’s Medium Term Financial Plan from 2012/13 onwards.
Roy Pointer suggests that she addresses the cuts that the council has faced and explains what the impact is on various areas.

Next Tuesday’s Health & Social Care Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting – JS said that Members of the Committee are to receive a verbal report on the NHS changes.
One of the Assn’s members feels that, with all the changes in NHS services to its patients in the pipeline, our elected representatives are being inadequately appraised of the changes and wonders if the Assn is of the same opinion about the tabling of verbal reports on such important matters. JS said that he had, subsequently, received a note from Cllr Charles Meachin saying that he is “on the case”.

Car Parking Charges – John Defty pointed out that car parking charges around the harbour appear to have been increased to £1.50/hour which he feels is fleecing the tourists to the area. He went on to say that there had been a Government instruction(?) that on-street car parking charges were not to be generated for revenue, and asked MH to comment on this matter. MH replied that she has no personal experience of this as she does not sit on the Transportation Advisory Group and it something she will have to look into, but at this point she has nothing to comment.    She pointed out that the proposed introduction of parking meters on the Sandbanks peninsula had not gone through.
JS suggested sending a note to Cllr Ron Parker who is the Cabinet Member responsible for Transportation Services about the increase in charges of on-street parking saying that concerns had been expressed at our meeting that these charges may have a detrimental effect on our tourist industry.
Roy Pointer refutes that this will be so. SA thinks that the car parking charges are levied at the rate that the Council feels the market will bear, and feels that tourists should make a contribution for using the facilities which we, in the form of Council Tax, pay for.
It was agreed that the Assn ask Liz Wilkinson to address the subject of car parking charges at our AGM.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.40pm.

Date of next Meeting: Wednesday 13th April 2011 in the Main Hall at Branksome St Aldhelm’s Parish Centre (Entrance via Lindsay Road)