November Report

Surgeries:

Please contact me at anytime if you wish me to visit you. Alternatively, please visit one of the following surgeries:

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 8th November, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 15th November, Cowes Library, 12-14 Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 15th November, Sports Bar, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

11:15-11:45am, Wednesday 23rd November, The Woodvale, Gurnard.

12:15-12:45pm Wednesday 23rd November, Little Gloster, Gurnard.

3:30-4pm, Wednesday 30th November, Cowes Enterprise College, Cowes.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 4th December, Cowes Library, 12-14 Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 4th December, Sports Bar, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

Gurnard Village Green Application, Refused.

 

Members of the Isle of Wight Council’s General Purposes Committee went against the officers recommendation in opposing the registration of the mouth of the Gurnard Luck and the adjoining grassland used to store dinghies.

Councillors felt the landowner had taken reasonable steps to prevent public access by erecting signage throughout the twenty year period (1984-2004) under consideration. Evidence that this signage existed was put forward by way of photographs and from minutes of a Gurnard Parish footpath review in 2002. It was felt that because a public footpath dissected the grassland, the intention of the signage which stated ‘Private Property’ would be clear to users of the land.

Lower Church Road: Latest

I have been in touch with Southern Water and their contractors Clancy Docwra over delays re-opening Lower Church Road and Solent View Road. This has caused issues not only to residents living in these roads, but also to residents from Marsh Road and Rew Street who rely upon the local bus service, which has been out of action to them for the last two months. 

Southern Water requested to close Lower Church Road for a further 5 days this week. I'm awaiting a call back from Southern Water to explain this and to ask why there are so few workmen working on site. Meanwhile, the IW Council has advised that originally it was hoped the new pipeline could be ‘moled’, however given the amount of other services close to the water mains this was not possible.

I advised the Council that the closure of Lower Church Road for so long is clearly unacceptable and following pressure being put upon Clancy Docwra to reopen the road, it reopened Friday evening, with the bus resuming Saturday morning.  Please note, there still may be delays caused as work still needs to continue.

 

Gurnard School Site.

The Planning application to develop the School site in Hilton Road, was unanimously approved by the IW Council’s Planning Committee. The one concern that was highlighted by the Committee was access to the pavement/ right of way which lie behind the hedge on Cockleton Lane. It was agreed by Councillors to request this pavement was ramped rather than stepped.

In the meantime a questionnaire has been circulated to residents concerning the future of the Playing Fields and Orchard. Copies of the questionnaire are available by following the links on Gurnard Parish Council’s website and are also available in hard copy format from the Little Gloster in Marsh Road and from Gurnard Newsagents in Worsley Road.

Isle of Wight Core Strategy Public Enquiry/ Localism Bill Update.

Roger Mazillius (Councillor for Cowes South and Northwood) and I were the only IW Councillors who attended the Enquiry, which was held at the former Downside Middle School last month.

On the day which we attended (The date when the housing allocations were discussed) there was considerable debate from the housing/ development lobby on whether the 530 new units per year, were adequate for their perceived demand for new homes. Concerns were expressed by developers on how new sites could be identified for Planning Permission between the current consultation period and adoption of the new plan.

Planning Officers made it clear that for new developments outside the current envelope, there would be an expectation for potential applicants to undertake their own Housing Needs Survey in order to demonstrate such a need.

At the recent meeting of Cowes Town Council, Sharon Attrill from the RCC outlined the importance of Neighbourhood Plans within the Localism Bill and mentioned that unless there is a Neighbourhood Plan undue pressure could be put upon surrounding communities to provide affordable housing due to the fact there is little affordable developable land in Town Centres. Like the Island Core Strategy, the housing and development lobby consider the Localism Bill favours Conservation Groups, whilst Conservation Groups argue that the Localism Bill favours developers, Sharon suggested that a good Neighbourhood Plan could enable the community to ensure that both parties meet midway...

In the meantime we await with interest the framework to how the Localism Bill will evolve through parliament for further information please visit the following link: http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2010-11/localism.html

Isle of Wight Community Club Bus Stop Request.

I’ve been requested to ask the Isle of Wight Council to consider relocating the Cowes bound bus stop, after the Roundhouse to a location much closer to the Isle of Wight Community Club.

The reason for doing this follows a temporary bus stop being located at the entrance of the Community Club earlier this year for the Island Games. Given that the Community Club has a large number of elderly and disabled members, given the current stop is very close to Roundhouse and that residents living nearby are in support of this, I remain hopeful this could be achieved.

Park Road.

Last month I received a number of complaints from residents concerning the amount of vehicles being parked on the road adjacent to Northwood Recreation Ground. Unfortunately given the vehicles are legally taxed and insured there is little the Isle of Wight Council can do to restrict this parking.

That stated, I’ve contacted the IW Council and am working with my neighbouring Councillors to investigate whether vehicles do present an issue with access to and from the Recreation Ground and the Community Club opposite.

Meeting with Traffic Police.

Frequently, I am lobbied by residents to who request action is taken again speeding motorists, anti-social parking and perceived non-enforcement of 6ft 6 restrictions.

Later this month, I am looking forward to arranging a meeting with the Traffic Police and the Isle of Wight Council’s Highway Section to address a number of issues in the Cowes Area.

One issue that is of considerable concern at the moment is the volume of traffic that currently uses Baring Road to access new developments that are underway in the area. At the meeting I will be asking all agencies to work together to lessen further disruption to local residents.

If there are further issues that you have that you would wish to see addressed jointly by the IW Council and the police, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Pan Meadows: New Homes for Local People?:

I’ve been contacted again by several residents who heard on ‘very good authority’ that Pan Meadows are being marketed to ‘Northerners’. I’ve been told by 'concerned' residents that apparently ‘up north’ there are bill boards promoting this development, whilst ‘coach loads of visitors from the mainland are seeking Island Housing'.

Although this has been refuted by the Isle of Wight Council, I have undertaken my own research and confirm I can’t find anything to substantiate this rumour. I’ve undertaken another extensive search of the internet and have found no evidence of any Authority marketing Pan Meadows outside the Island (other than via Barratt’s internet portal). Furthermore, I’ve been advised the IW Council are not in partnership with any other mainland housing authority- from 'the North', or elsewhere for that matter and there are no proposals to suggest this is likely to change. If I have got this totally wrong I am asking residents to present me with any evidence so that I can take this up!......

Also this Month:

I joined months Gurnard Village Tidy-Up (I didn’t do very much tidying up…!) with Gurnard Parish Councillors Longman and Javaid, I met with Nigel Mason at Cowes Enterprise College and discussed with him options for Youth Representation in the Cowes. These were discussed by Cowes Town Council and Northwood Parish Council who are arranging to meet with Nigel.

I seem to be receiving more complaints than ever about dog mess and dogs fouling whilst off leads. I have asked the IW Council to look into cutting the Grass Verges outside the former Readers site in Place Road. According to information I’ve received this land has always been public highway, however the Council have been hesitant in cutting this verge.

I’ve attended a meeting to discuss the Community Bus, and poised questions on the Council’s Budgetary Review at last weeks Overview and Scrutiny Committee Meeting. I’m in the process of supporting the Digital Switch-Over meeting to be held on  Thursday January 12th 2012 from 12 - 4pm at Gurnard Village Hall,  and look forward to meeting with the Green Towns Team, in the coming weeks.

I've nominated a volunteer wishing to serve on the Governing Body of Gurnard Primary School, learnt that flagstaffs require planning permission only when not flying the Union Jack and will be out and about this week listening to Cowes Businesses about the support they require from Councillors.

 

 

At County Hall, I've discussed proposals concerning next years budget proposals with the Director of the Environment and Economy. I've attended five General Purposes Transport Appeals, took part in the Licensing Panel called to consider the License for Turquoise, Newport, I attended and put questions to the Council's Overview & Scrutiny Committee, Planning Committee and Full Council. 

October Councillors Report

Surgeries:

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 4th October, Cowes Library, 12-14 Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 4th October, Sports Bar, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 11th October, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

3:30-4pm, Wednesday 19th October, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

11-11:45am, Wednesday 26th October, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

12:15-12:45pm, Wednesday 26th October, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 8th November, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

1. Cowes Community Bus.

The new Community Bus has been operating for a month, and the service seems to have settled in fairly well. I’ve spent a couple of days, on the bus talking to passengers to gauge views on how to improve the service.

 In the first couple of weeks problems were encountered in getting the bus from its school run, in time for its 9:30am from Cowes. Concerns were raised over delays to the first bus, issues relating to the fact Rew Street and Hillis Corner being no longer served and the fact that the new timetable could become tight once Solent View Road and Lower Church Road, Gurnard reopens in the next few weeks. Although solutions have been identified, the issues continue to be monitored.

Last month the BBC helped promote our bus Service by filming features for both the One Show and The Peoples Lottery. Many thanks to all residents for being involved!

2. Cowes and Gurnard Bathing Water Quality Meeting.

Last month I called a meeting with the Environment Agency, Southern Water and IW Council’s Parks & Beaches to discuss concerns raised by Gurnard Parish Councillor, Marie Bugden over Gurnard losing its recommended beach status, this year and over August’s Water Quality failure at Egypt Point.

Issues were raised regarding Fat and Rags blocking Southern Water’s Pumping Station, problems being encountered following storms and issues concerning raw sewage being discharged by commercial and pleasure craft in the Solent. Locally, it was agreed that I would arrange a meeting between Cowes Week Ltd and the EA, to investigate options to improve sea water quality. It was also agreed that all agencies would work together on publicity for residents which will be relayed through the IW Council’s One Island Magazine.

3. Green Towns

I’ve passed ‘evidence’ to the Green Town’s Team, and am hopeful Gurnards application will be approved.

4. Police Matters.

Following residents’ comments , I’ve contacted Andrew Turner MP over concerns relating to Crime & Disorder.

Although, we recognise we live in one of the safest places nationally, I’ve passed on concerns to the MP over the loss of the front desk, the imminent closure of Cowes Police Station and to the loss of frontline police officers.

Last month I was one of a handful of Councillors echoing this concern when Chief Constable, Alex Marshall was on the Island. At the meeting he gave Isle of Wight Councillors a steer on his thoughts of how CCTV footage should be monitored and this is something I trust members will digest when setting budgets for next year! He spoke about how victims of crime will receive a follow up, spoke about how pubs causing high levels of anti-social behaviour would be closed down and gave me his reassurance that more hand held cameras will be made available for Community Speedwatch Schemes.

5. Gurnard Village Hall Cyber Café.

Gurnard Village Hall Association are running a Cyber Café at 2-4 pm on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Hall. Sessions are open to anybody of any age and costs £1 per person- which entitles ’surfers’ to refreshments and unlimited access to the internet.

Residents can use either the lap-tops provided, or you can supply your own. There is help available to assist novices on shopping online, emailing, writing letters, surf the internet, change energy and insurance suppliers, book tickets, contact old friends, Skype, Blog, play scrabble, bridge and much, much more!

For further information contact Carolyn on 297154.

6. Gurnard Village Green Application, Gurnard Luck.

The Hearing is due to take place on Wednesday 12th October, at County Hall. The General Purposes Committee have two recommendations to consider; Either to agree to part of Village Green Application being approved, or to ask for an Independent Inspector to review the case should the Committee decide there are too many contradictions in the evidence provided.

 Many thanks to residents involved in the supply of statements!

7. Parliamentary Boundary Review Consultation.

The Boundary Commission are consulting on future parliamentary constituencies following the governments decision to reduce Members of Parliament from 650 to 600. The Consultation takes place until 5th December. If you want to know more please contact the Commission on 020 7276 1102. You can participate online or alternatively by writing to: The Boundary Commission for England, 35 Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3BQ.

 

The Boundary Commission proposes 1 MP for Cowes, Newport & Ryde (NORTH) and 1 MP for Sandown, Shanklin, Ventnor & West Wight (SOUTH). However in the Boundary Commissions proposals Carisbrooke (part of Newport PC) and Haylands/ Ashey (part of Ryde TC) is included within the South constituency. In my representation I’ve suggested that as an alternative Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin & Ventnor become one constituency (more relevant upon tourism), whilst Cowes, Newport & West Wight becomes another (more relevant to industry). This would save Newport and Ryde Town Councils being dissected in having 2 MP’s

8. Preparing For Winter…

At this time of year, I usually receive calls concerning how residents can stay warm, and save money on fuel bills during the winter.

 

The IW Footprint Trust can save householders over £300 from annual energy bills. For details call 822282, or visit http://www.footprint-trust.co.uk/energetic.htm

9. Gurnard Village Tidy Up: 10am, 22nd October

Gurnard’s next Village Tidy-Up takes place from the Village Hall at 10am, Saturday 22 October.

I will be treating all participants to a hot drink or ice cream (depending on how long the summer lasts!) afterwards.

10. Radio Mast Pre-Application, Crossfield Avenue Update.

A Planning Application is pending for a replacement Transmitter at Cowes Golf Club once the Tower Block of the old school is demolished. Information, I have received has been circulated to residents.

11. WOW Fest Approved.

Last month, I spent two days within the Licensing Committee that approved the third largest Festival for the Isle of Wight- Wow Fest in Shanklin.

The organisers requested the Festival to have a 30,000 capacity, however following representations made by The Police, Highways and over 100 residents (132 objected, whilst 5 supported) the Licensing Committee reduced that number from 30,000 to 18,000 for the first year. The Police advised the Licensing Committee they considered a 20,000 capacity would be manageable.

 

It was noted that the Festival will be held on a busy weekend with both the Cowes Week fireworks and the Garlic Festival taking place at the same weekend.

12. County Hall Refurbishment.

Many thanks to residents who have asked questions concerning the recent overhall of the Council Chamber, which it was alleged has cost the local authority £120,000.

This money was set aside in last years Transformation budget, when Councillors agreed to transfer Council’s staff into fewer buildings. County Hall’s staff this year is set to grow from 400 to 700 whilst the buildings will be sold. With regard to the Council Chamber (which remained as it was since 1995), it was decided to make this much more fit for purpose as microphones didn’t work (not really a problem for me!), projectors could not be viewed and the static tables did not really lend themselves to adapting the Chamber for wider community use.

Although I share some concerns about the cost and the fact the chamber still remains difficult to access for disabled users, I remain positive that in future the Council Chamber will be put to much better use and community groups will have greater access than they had previously.

13. Egypt Hill Developments.

I continue to respond to a considerable number of complaints concerning the redevelopment of the three sites in Egypt Hill.

During summer work began on the former site of Rookstone. Work is also due to end shortly at Essex House, Baring Road; Meaning the cranes are due to leave this site soon resulting in the road being closed. To improve traffic flows in the area, contractors have been asked to park in Egypt Esplanade.

14. Replacement Gas Main Timetable: September-December.

September: Cross Solent Gas Pipeline has been tested and gassed up. No problems encountered; Trials on land based pipeline due to take place. Cow Lane due to be closed for three days.

October: ‘Kiosk’ due to be constructed to surround regulator. Pipelines to be coated, and land backfilled. Topsoiling an Reseeding to take place and replacement hedgerows planted.

November: Old pipeline disconnected at Egypt Point. Road to regulator, Rew St. to be resurfaced and concreted.

SGN has constructed a pond, whilst positive news was relayed that the replacement Electricity Main is due to come ashore at Thorness rather than Gurnard!

15. Digital Switchover Update

On 7 March 2012, the Isle of Wight's terrestrial TV signal will be turned off. This means to continue receiving free-to-air TV channels such as BBC & ITV, households will require a digital set top box or TV with built-in Freeview.

16. Cowes Enterprise College.

I continue to chair the residents/ contractors/ college liaison group and can report development is running to schedule. Following complaints I‘ve relayed on residents behalf, the contractor has increased manual road cleaning, with an Industrial road sweeper being used on a weekly basis in Crossfield Avenue. I’ve also been advised that hedges will be allowed to grow where necessary and the sports field has been seeded and is due for its first cut. I would like to add my grateful thanks to Pihl and Janet Newton, Director of School Reorganisation for their enthusiastic involvement in resolving issues when they arise.

I met with the new Principal, early this month and together we discussed continuing surgeries at the college, and how I can work alongside the college following my retirement as a school governor last month.  We also discussed opportunities to enable students to have a much greater involvement in local decision making, and how young people could and  should work with the local authority and local parish & town councils.  Mr Russell was keen to listen to comments both positive and negative which have been relayed to me concerning school uniform.

 

In The Last Month:

17. I attended a Local Access Forum, and was advised that the Cross Cowes Cycleway which I have long supported will feature in the Council’s bid for funds from the Sustainable Transport Grant.

18 I attended the Cowes Group of Older Voices, and will convene a meeting between the group and Highways Officers.

19. I’ve attended meetings of the IW Council’s Scrutiny Committee for Young People, and raised concerns over Foster Care and the recruitment of carers.

20. Meanwhile at the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel, I’ve raised issues re: Recycling, The Gasification Plant, Tourism and the future concerning the Cowes Ferry. (The floating bridge is due to cease operation in 2015) 

21. I attended the funeral of neighbouring Councillor for West Wight, Stuart Dyer. As fellow Independents we worked closely on a number of initiatives. Stuart was a good friend and a very popular Councillor, and will be sadly missed.

22. I attended a meeting concerning the future of Gurnard School Site at County Hall. I am committed to working with Gurnard Parish Council to ensure that the community retains a sustainable use of the non-developable part of the School Site.

23. I’ve met with the Council’s Chief Executive and Director Of Finance to discuss proposals for next years Budget.

24. During September I attended three Cowes Town Council meetings; a meeting of Gurnard Parish Council a Footprint Trust Meeting, attended Gurnard Village Hall Association’s AGM, attended Cowes Youth Club Management Committee Meeting, Cowes Community Partnership’s AGM, Cowes Area Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators meeting, a meeting of the Gurnard Pines Chalet Owners, a Planning Site Visit and meeting and Full Council.

25. I’ve taken up issues relating to Dog Fouling (Princes Esplanade), broken Play Equipment, reported Grass verges (Place Road) not being cut and overgrown hedgerows (Shore Road). I have supported a residents appeal against issuing of a Parking Ticket and ensured leaflets outlining how to appeal against parking tickets are made available from Cowes Library. I asked the Council to remove a Bus Stop in Parklands Avenue, once it suddenly appeared…, and took up a number of issues relating to re-housing Gurnard Pines residents.

September Councillors Report to Cowes Town & Gurnard Parish Councillors

1. Surgeries:

I am happy to meet residents at their convenience, alternatively I hold surgeries on the following occasions:

 

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 6th September, Cowes Library, 12-14 Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 6th September, Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 13th September, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Wednesday 21st September, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

11:45-12:30pm, Wednesday 21st September, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

3:30-4pm, Wednesday 28th September, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 4th October, Cowes Library, 12-14 Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 4th October, Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 11th October, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

2. Cowes Town Council.

Last month, I was honoured to be elected as Cowes Town Council’s newest Councillors and am very grateful to the residents from Cowes North who elected me to serve them.

I applied to join Cowes Town Council, as I consider that links between the Isle of Wight Council, Town and Parish Councils and the local community are becoming much more necessary with the onset of the Localism Bill. As I attend all local Council meetings anyway, this would enable me to have greater input in discussions on local services and projects.

Since my election I have been working alongside residents, fellow Town Councillors and the Isle of Wight Cllr. George Brown, to resolve issues which were brought to my attention. In the last few weeks, I’ve assisted residents relating to the new bus service, planning and licensing issues and have passed on information regarding the Park Road Bus Stop. I have also commenced a local surgery which I plan to replicate on the first Tuesday of each month.

3. Cowes Community Bus.

The new community bus is due to start this Monday 5th September. Last week timetables were handed out on the bus service and left in local shops for passengers. The bus will operate from 0930 til 2pm and operates 6 days a week. Many thanks to Southern Vectis, all Local Town and Parish Councils and local residents in ensuring our local service not only remained as it was; but has been improved upon. The local timetable features below:

Cowes Co-Op                    0930 1005 1040 1115 1150 1225 1300 1330

The Woodvale, Gurnard      0935 1010 1045 1120 1155 1230 1305 1335

Portland Inn, Gurnard          0938 1013 1048 1123 1158 1233 1308 1338

Pallance Road, Northwood 0944 1019 1054 1129 1204 1239 1314 1344

Horseshoe Inn, Northwood 0946 1021 1056 1131 1206 1241 1316 1346

Cemetery Gates, Cowes      0949 1024 1059 1134 1209 1244 1319

Crossfield Avenue, Cowes   0954 1029 1104 1139 1214 1249 1324

Cowes Co-Op                    0957 1033 1107 1142 1217 1252 1327

4. Bathing Water Quality.

I’m currently in the throes organising a meeting to discuss water quality issues with Southern Water, the Environment Agency, Sailing Clubs and the IW Council. I am hoping this meeting will act as a wash-up this year to enable more to be done in the future to improve Water Quality on Cowes Beach (which failed its water quality test on 9th August) and at Gurnard Beach (which failed to be a MCS ‘recommended‘ beach this year).

Once a date is agreed later this month, I hope to invite Local Parish and Town councillors to attend.

5. Radio Mast Pre-Application, Cowes Golf Club.

During the school holidays, I received a pre-application letter from Everything, Everywhere contractors who work on behalf of mobile operators Orange and T Mobile. Everything Everywhere are proposing to install a new transmitter off the road which serves Cowes Golf Club from Crossfield Avenue.

Although I have some reservations, before making any representation I have asked for further information to be made available to the new school and local residents. As yet I’ve received no feedback to my requests for this information which I’m anxious to pass on to residents potentially affected by any application.

6. Isle of Wight Community Club.

I called a meeting between residents and the Community Club to resolve issues of fly tipping of rubbish on site. At the meeting it was agreed that the Community Club would take steps to clear the ground, and the relevant committee would agree to take action to resolve any re-occurrence of this happening in the future.

In the meantime, I’m advised the Club who has a membership of over 1200 are seeking volunteers to assist the committee in the day to day management. For further details please contact Ray Munt at the Club on 292238.

7. Ward Avenue.

The IW Council’s Planning Committee has approved a chalet for the garden of 25 Ward Avenue, which is visible from Crossfield Avenue. Although the chalet’s ridge height fell within the permitted development height, the eaves height didn’t, and therefore required planning permission.

Although the application was approved, Planners have imposed a number of conditions to ensure this building’s impact is reduced. This includes a legal agreement, that if not signed and adhered to will make any non-ancillary residence unlawful.

8. Solent Reach, Princes Esplanade.

I understand from the sites developer, that several complaints have come forward from residents over the unkempt nature of this site at the far east end of Princes Esplanade. The developer has highlighted to me his willingness to clear the site, however the Council cannot grant permission for this to be done until they receive a land stability report from engineers.

I am contacting both parties to ensure issues are promptly resolved, enabling work to commence.

9. West View Road.

I attended a meeting with local residents to resolve a number of long standing issues in the road. The main issues which residents have highlighted include damage to the road, disturbance due to the cattle grid and the size and speed of traffic.

It was agreed that the owner of Clarke’s Mechanical would speak to the farmer (who shares ownership of the road) to consider re-hanging the gate. In the meantime, he also agreed to infill any pot holes. I have been asked to investigate with Planners the potential of removing the Cattle Grid condition for Clarke’s Mechanical, as it was agreed this served no purpose. I was also asked to investigate from the IW Council the cost for a 10mph ‘advisory’ speed sign. Highways and Planners are still looking into these matters.

10. Gurnard Green Towns Initiative.

Another meeting I intend calling this month, is one to take forward Gurnard’s ‘Green Town’ status.

I have put out a plea in Gurnard News for volunteers and hope that I can find a resident to help co-ordinate this project, which could reap financial benefits for the village. This could be useful in also progressing any consultation that would be required for the future ideas and management of the school playing field site. Please contact me for further information.

Elsewhere during July and August:

11. I attended the final celebration evening for Cowes High students at Cowes Yacht Haven.

12. I joined Andrew Turner MP during surgeries in Cowes and Gurnard.

13.  I helped resolve a Neighbourhood Dispute.

14. I reported unauthorised street traders to Licensing 

15.  I received enquiries concerning Taxi operations over Cowes Week.

16. I took action against No Cold Calling salesmen,

17. I helped resolve the short closure of public loos in Gurnard.

18. I asked to postpone a Gurnard Luck Village Green Application to be heard at a time when residents were not away.

19. I requested action against overhanging trees and brambles in Tuttons Hill, Place Road and Baring Road.

20. This week I have reported vandalised bus shelters,

21. I've reported accounts of fly tipping 

22. I have received complaints from parents concerning the new uniform for Cowes Enterprise College (costs and availability are issues causing concern).

23.  I continue to follow up unresolved complaints made on behalf of residents.

24. Residents continue to raise concern over the difficulty in getting in touch with County Hall due to delays at the Council’s Call Centre. In the meantime, I intend to take these matters up with the cabinet member responsible. 

July Newsletter to (Cowes) Town and (Gurnard) Parish Councillors

Apologies to Gurnard Parish Councillors for this month circulating my Report in Electronic Form. My printer has broken down, hence letters being written in hand and Reports mailed out electronically.

Surgeries.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 12th July, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

3:30-4pm, Wednesday 20th July, Cowes High School, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

11-11:30am, Wednesday 27th July, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

11:45-12 noon, Wednesday 27th July, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

1.30- 2pm, Tues. 2nd August, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11-12am, Tues. 30th August, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 6th September, Sports Bar, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

1. Cowes High School.

I attended a Residents Liaison Meeting at Cowes High School last week with Cllr Bob Robinson from Cowes Town Council. I have passed on complaints from car parking from residents, and dust that is blowing off the site. These matters have been taken up and (sort of) resolved by contractors, with steps taken. I’ve also received a complaint concerning the erection of flagpoles and the cutting back of the hedgerow. Once again Pihl have been very sympathetic to these matters which I hope will be resolved. Pihl have reported that the project remains ahead of schedule, with the school on course to be opened in December 2012.

I’d like to formally place on record my thanks to Bob and Dorothy Moir who have both been stars in their support to local residents!

2. Rew Street.

I am due to meet with local residents next week concerning an alleged breach of planning conditions relating to a business operating from this rural area. Complaints came to a head last week when contractors from SGN disposed of waste from their site.  I have been told this 'waste' was Bentonite Drilling Fluid, which is considered very effective for use on farmland, and is in no way harmful to the local environment.

3. Crossfield Estate- Open Planned Conditions.

A Planning Breach Of Condition Enforcement Notice has been served to a property owner on the estate, who erected a fence without consent. The resident has been given until 18th August to either comply or appeal against the decision.

4. Cowes Learning Centre.

Concerns have been passed onto me, concerning the future of Cowes Learning Centre in Love Lane, following the Centres inclusion within the SHLAA. I have passed this enquiry on to Councillors Mazillius and Peacey-Wilcox, and am happy to provide any support should this be required.

5. The Glen, Worsley Road.

An Application was received to redevelop this well known site in Gurnard. The Proposal will demolish The Glen (currently comprising of 6 flats), and remove outbuildings in favour for a new development of 14 sheltered housing units for the Over 55’s.

Because of the significance of this application, I have mail dropped most residents living nearby. The only concerns that have been raised over this application, relates to the fact that the roads are to be left open-ended. This road connection, it is feared could lead to further development of the Jordan Valley, and lies outside the development envelope. In the meantime, I will be discussing these concerns with the planning officer to see whether conditions can be implemented to prevent any occurance happening.

6. 8 Cliff Road.

I have received a number of representations from local residents opposed to the redevelopment of Cliff Cottage, 8 Cliff Road. Concerns raised include Design Issues, the impact upon the Queens Road Conservation Area, Loss of Privacy, Concerns over Scale and Mass, Ground Stability Issues and fears over Car Parking.

7. Ward Avenue Chalet.

Cowes Town Councillors that sit on the Planning Committee will be aware of a ‘chalet’ that has been constructed in the rear garden of a property in Ward Avenue. Given the concern that residents have expressed, I have asked the Planning Committee to visit the site to see for themselves this proposal.

This application is due to be heard by The Planning Committee on Tuesday 2nd August.

8. Gurnard School.

A pre-application Consultation took place in Gurnard School last week by the IW Council, who are seeking to dispose of Gurnard Primary School Site. The outline proposals seeks to development 7 new detached and semi detached houses where the school buildings currently sit.

Around 50 residents attended the consultation, and most considered the proposals to be less daunting that what they expected (!). I suggested consideration be given for two extra dwellings be provided for ‘affordable local housing’, but this was not considered either sustainable for this site and would cause the site to be overdeveloped on planning grounds.

I am hoping that when the Council disposes of the site, a community use can be maintained for the Playing Fields and Orchard.  Many Thanks to residents who joined in with this consultation

9. Cowes and Gurnard Beaches.

I continue to receive complaints concerning rubbish appearing on both beaches and keep asking for tidy ups to occur when complaints are forthcoming.

The Council continues to clean and monitor the beach westwards from Cowes to Gurnard Sailing Club, whilst volunteers continue to make themselves available for Beach Cleans west of Gurnard Sailing Club.  Last Month, I joined Parish Council Chairman, Richard Day and others beachcombing west of the club, and was surprised by how little litter we did actually collect- Whether this was down to the fact that locals are keeping the beach spotless, or whether this is down to fewer parties being held- I don't know!

In the meantime I've requested that Restorative Justice is considered as an option for West Gurnard Beach, and look forward to working in partnership with the police to see this happening in the coming weeks!  Many thanks to the Volunteers, and to Richard who was volunteered rather than volunteered, and I look forward to next time!

10. Cockleton Lane.

A section of Cockleton Lane has been resurfaced by contractors, to protect the lane from damage from future winter weather.

Unfortunately the contractor caused confusion to parents dropping children off to Gurnard School, by not conforming with statutory notices warning the school, local residents and road users of this. This is a matter I have taken up with the Council.

11. Woodland, Cowes/Gurnard Seafront.

I have received complaints concerning the planting of Eucalyptus and Willow Trees on woodland between Baring Road and Princes Esplanade. Concern has been expressed regarding how these trees may impact upon Ground Stability and water courses in the area. I have contacted both Tree Officer and Coastal Protection Officers to investigate this further.

12. School Governors.

The Isle of Wight Council are re-evaluating how they appoint Governors to schools. At last weeks Governors Briefing, Local Authority Governors were advised that Training was to be reviewed with Governors needing to reapply for positions currently held.

13. Andrew Turner, Summer Surgeries: Tuesday 2nd August

Our MP has surgeries this summer at 12:10pm, at the Village Clock, Gurnard and 12:40pm. The Co-Op, Carvel Lane.  If you want to discuss issues with Andrew, or myself I hope to join him at both venues!

In the last month:

14. Planning Enforcement officers have visited the Brambles (Solent Heights), Egypt Hill following complaints lodged regarding the location of these new homes, and how these fit in with the approved scheme.

15. Officers have also been asked to look into contractors parking in Baring Road on double yellow lines.  I have asked officers to look into this, and hope action has been taken to resolve this matter. 

16. I received a call from a resident concerned over future development adjacent to the Stables in Woodvale Road.

17.I joined other members, on a site visit prior to the Isle Of Wight Festival.

18. I attended a briefing with the Director concerning the reinstatement of Residents Parking Permits. The Council currently believes that a £150 permit would provide a shortfall of income for the local authority. In order to positively challenge this,  I am undertaking my own research, which I believe will provide evidence of good practice elsewhere.

19. I supported a motion that was put to the Isle of Wight Council, urging Councillors to circulate reports on off Island trips they undertake on behalf of the Authority.

20. I continue to receive complaints over bonfires from residents of Baring Road, Egypt Hill and Tuttons Hill. In response, I have supplied information as to what the law implies, and if residents consider making a formal complaint through Environmental Health how they go about doing this.

21. I have received 4 objections about relocating the Fire Call centre to Surrey. Despite undertaking my own research, I remain unconvinced that any relocation will be to the detriment of Islanders.

22. I attended the Economy and Environment Scrutiny Committee and asked questions in relation to recycling whether it was ever going to be viable to have a 100% target for diverting waste from landfill, and what could the Isle of Wight Council do to support Commercial Operators?) At the meeting it was also noted road incidents at Beaper Shute had been overcome following Highway Improvements in the area.

23. I attended the Cowes Area Neighbourhood Watch Meeting- and reported further incidents of pavement parking. At the meeting it was reported that items continue to be stolen from unlocked cars.

Next Month:

24. I am intending to meet with the Head Of Highways next month, if any Town or Parish Councillors or local residents  have any Questions they wish me to put on their behalf, please let me know before Tuesday 2nd August.