IW Councillors Report April 2017

Surgeries.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 4^th April, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

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

11-11:30am, Friday 7^th April, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 13^th April, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard. (Please note reconvened timing...!)

1-1:30pm, Wednesday 19^th April, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 27^th April, The Portland, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Friday 28^th April, Eegons, 72 High Street, Cowes.

Elections, Thursday 4^th May.

This month’s report will be very much a whistle-stop tour of work being undertaken during this month.  This is due to me attempting to tie up all loose ends before my pre-election canvassing which takes place over the next few weeks.

As I mentioned last month, I have submitted my nomination papers and look forward to campaigning for re-election over the coming weeks.

For me, door-stepping is a really important aspect of the work which I undertake every four years as this affords me the opportunity to speak to a very wide range of residents- rather than those who track me down!!

If I miss you, please do not hesitate to call me between 6 and 9pm when I eventually return home on Friday.

Post Office closure and consultation.

At the time of writing The Post Office has advised that the Temporary facility at Cowes will close 6pm, Tuesday 25^th April.  The new Post Office will be relocated to the Co-Op at 155 Mill Hill Road, Cowes on 1pm, Friday 19^th May. The Post Office advises that although ‘the decision has already been made to move the Cowes branch’, a 6 week ‘consultation’ will take place on the suitability of the new location.

This consultation takes place until 11^th April. If participating online via the: http://postoffice.views.co.uk/, please enter the branch code: 19592599

You can also comment by:

·         email to comments@postoffice.co.uk

·         through the customer helpline: 03457 22 33 44, Textphone: 03457 22 33 55.

·         Freepost Comments, Post Office Ltd.

On this matter all four Cowes Councillors (and the MP) have alongside me voiced their concerns over the length of the closure, and the fact the new Post Office is not centrally located and accessible to the Town Centre for both residents and businesses.

Following initial concerns raised, in the meantime the Post Office has agreed to extend opening hours at Pallance Road, which was originally due to close at the end of this month.

Planning Updates:

·         Dottens Farm.

I am advised this application will be one of the first applications to be considered by the new Planning Committee appointed following local elections.

·         Coach House, Queens Road

I’m seeking a condition to utilise Queens Road instead of Marine View Close for access by Construction Traffic. In addition I’ve supported residents’ requests to improve visibility splays from Marine View Close to Egypt Hill.

·         13 Shore Road.

The Planning Appeal for this application has again been dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate.

·         Albert Road.

Thank you to the numerous residents who contact me concerning this application!  I am currently awaiting an update from the Planning Officer, on how this matter is progressing!

Planning Enforcement.

An opportunity arose last month to speak to one of the owners of Gurnard Pines.  In the discussion which I had, I was advised that in ‘planning terms’ there was an acceptance of the site continuing as a Tourism/ Holiday use site.

However, as I am sure residents, owners and the Council would agree the practicalities of how the site operates need to be re-looked at and potentially improved.

Prior to the new Range store opening on Friday 14^th April, there remains a number of outstanding planning issues relating to flood lighting, soft lanscaping and noise which I am still attempting to resolve through the support of officers. 

New development, Place Road- Resident’s Forum.

Issues remain ongoing regarding the new housing development off Place Road.  In the meantime, given the amount of disruption that is likely to occur in the coming months and years, I am suggesting facilitating regular meetings between the developers and residents.  

In the conversations had to date, I know it would be helpful to understand what works will be undertaken, at what time and the rationale for these taking place.

Highways Updates.

Both Princes Esplanade and Egypt Esplanade were resurfaced last month. Subsequently, I’ve received a positive response from residents concerning improvements to both the road and footway.

In the meantime, please share your thoughts on the Footway linking Gurnard with Cowes.  I have been asked (and am) supporting efforts to make this path easier to use for mobility impaired pedestrians. Subsequently, I've made representations to both Island Roads and Coastal Protection Officers.

Unfortunately, as this work took longer than anticipated, and as a consequence the reconstruction of Parklands Avenue (scheduled to commence this month) has been yet again delayed. Like residents of Parklands Avenue, I am not happy regarding this and subsequently I’ve arranged a meeting with residents and officers from Island Roads on site will take place before Easter to ensure slippage is minimised.

A request has been received to Yarnbomb Gurnard in July.  This initiative has my full support, and I’ve been in liaison with Island Roads to ensure this event can and will happen!

Following a storm event, it has been necessary to remove a tree, in Solent View Road.  I’m advised this tree will be replaced before the end of April.

Many thanks to Richard our diligent District Steward from Island Roads who promptly assisted in resolving damaged paving on Cowes Parade and monitoring the raised ironworks which is again becoming an issue in Shore Road.

Elsewhere, I’ve also requested support on resolving the spring (or perhaps a broken water main), which comes to the surface on the junction of Market Hill and Sun Hill, Cowes.

I have been in discussion with two residents who have asked me to bring pressure to bare in respect to improving mobility access to Park Road, which is considered difficult for the disabled.  On this matter, I’ve requested an update from Island Roads who incorporated this two years ago as a priority within the Highways Integrity Register. 

Repair to Slipway, Gurnard.

Many thanks to the resident who took on the repairs to the slipway located at the southern edge of Shore Path. On behalf of residents, I wish to relay my grateful thanks for undertaking this work which I know is much appreciated!  

Also this month:

·         I continue to talk to residents of Glen Place now that all properties on this new development are now sold.  A Management Committee is in the process of being formed, however in the meantime I am supporting residents in getting loose ends tied up.

·         Following exploring alternatives at All Saints Church, Gurnard Pines, Tuttons Hill, Baring Road and Marsh Road Vodaphone and Telefonica have agreed to erect a 15m telecoms mast at Cliff Farm, Rew Street.  According to surveyors this is to improve 2G, 3G and 4G coverage in the area.

·         A meeting takes place this week to resolve outstanding Beach Hut issues with owners at Gurnard Green.

·         Following feedback from residents, I have been asked and will be supporting the new Floating Bridge to be named Floaty McFloat Face. 

·         I attended the most recent meeting of Cowes Medical Centre’s Patients Participation Group.  Items that were discussed included the recruitment of new participants and proposals to improve medical care and signposting at the practice.

·         With the onset of Council Tax bills arriving, I have received a number of requests from residents for support.

·         My Annual Report was delivered in March. Please let me know if you have not received yours. 

·         If I am privileged to be re-elected next month, I am looking forward to expanding my weekly surgeries to have participation from more outside agencies who have offered to attend in order to provide guidance and support to residents.  I am hoping the first of these surgeries will commence in June.

REPORT FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF SCRUTINY COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF FULL COUNCIL

ON WEDNESDAY, 22 MARCH 2017

The final meeting of the Scrutiny Committee before the elections took place on 7 March 2017. An update was provided on the anticipated 2016/17 revenue budget outturn. It was indicated that there was a forecasted overspend of £250,000.

There were no further developments on devolution and the Leader gave his views on partnership working.

In dealing with the items being considered by the Executive members noted the analysis of school attainment for 2016. This showed an improving picture and there was a concentration on those areas, such as mathematics, where further work was required.

The committee endorsed the special purchaser of land at the former Barton Primary School in Newport. The proposal to vary the current lease of Sandham Gardens to Sandown Town Council so to enable redevelopment proposals to come forward members highlighted the need to protect the existing open space and involve the local members and residents.

There was support for progressing with the harbour revision order for Newport Harbour. This is an issue that has been the subject of discussion over a number of years and it is positive to see that progress is being made.

The adoption of the proposed revised affordable housing contributions supplementary planning document were discussed and debated by members. This lead to the committee not agreeing to the recommendation and urging the Executive to agree a tariff percentage of more than the 2% proposed.   Subsequently, at Executive this led to a tariff agreed at 3%.

This being my last report to Full Council, I would like to thank all members both past and present for their support on both the Scrutiny Committee, and the Task and Finish groups which has been established and fed back since the beginning of this Council’s term.  I would also like to thank the support of Executive members and officers for the meaningful dialogue between both Scrutiny and the Executive.

It goes without saying, and I’m sure that my predecessors would agree, that that  the support of Paul Thistlewood for his advice has been invaluable and greatly appreciated!  

Councillor Paul Fuller, Chairman of the Scrutiny Committee

Promoted by Paul Fuller of 74 Wyatts Lane, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 8QA.

IW Councillors Annual Report: No.8 (April 2016 - April 2017)

CLLR PAUL FULLER, INDEPENDENT ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCILLOR FOR COWES WEST AND GURNARD. ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCILLORS REPORT (No. 8): 2016/7

Please contact me:

By Post to: 74 Wyatts Lane, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 8QA.

 Telephone: 01983 289595 (24 hours)/ 07 935 090 835 (Mobile & Text); Email: paulfulleriw@gmail.com

Visits and Surgeries.

Please contact me if you require support.  I’m always happy to meet at a time and place which suits you.

Alternatively, in the last year four years residents have had the option to visit my surgeries (No appointments are necessary).  These were and are held as follows and will continue should I be re-elected in May:

4:30-5pm, 1^st Tuesday of each month at Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, 1^st Tuesday of each month at The Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

11-11:30am, 1^st Friday of each month at Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:45-12:15pm or 6-6:30pm, 2^nd Thursday of each month at The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

1-1:30pm, 3^rd or 4^th Wednesday  of each month at the Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard. [March-December]

3-3:30pm, 3^rd or 4^th Wednesday of each month at Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

11-11:30am, 4^th or 5^th Friday of each month at Eegon’s, 72 High Street, Cowes.

6-6:30pm, last Thursday of each month at The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

Please visit paulfullercc.blogspot.co.uk for monthly reports and updates on surgeries.

Isle of Wight Council Elections.

On Thursday 4^th May, I will be seeking your support for re-election to the Isle of Wight Council for the next four years.

This offers an opportunity to let me know whether I am getting things right, and how I can be more effective should I receive the privilege to continue as your Councillor. 

As usual, I intend to call at every household. However, if you would prefer me not to call, please let me know!

For much of the last four years, I’ve played an active role within the Council as an Executive Member for the Independent controlled Council.   In this role I’ve overseen matters relating to Planning, Waste, Public Protection, the Environment and Engagement with Town and Parish Councils.

As part of the Independent Group, I have   successfully campaigned to ensure our Council listens more, and actively responds to the wishes and needs of our community.

Representing our Community in County Hall, rather than County Hall in our Community:

This is my eighth annual report and summarises my work as your Councillor for the past 12 months.

Despite needing to fight even harder following cutbacks to services, I am committed to ensure our Councils say ‘yes’, rather than no. As long as I remain your Councillor, I’ll continue to listen to and fight our corner whenever and wherever necessary.

The reason I do this, is because I thoroughly love it! Because I enjoy my ‘work’, I hope that it shows and I’m achieving the right outcomes for our community!

Thank you for reading my report!

In a Nutshell: Some of the key issues I’ve been pursuing since last year:

April 2016.

·         Park Road was resurfaced.

·         I approached Taxi operators, following a shortage of taxi’s during weekends.  Following input, an operator took positive action to improve provision.

·         Following feedback, I supported residents awaiting renewal of their blue badges.

·         Beach replenishment took place in Queens Road.

May.

·         I arranged a Public Information Meeting which took place concerning the first phase of the Place Road development.  At the event residents had input with the developer on future proposals.

·         As Executive member, following roll out of the new waste contract I undertook three months of surgeries supporting Island residents. In this time, I supported over 200 people in seven venues.

·         I notified 300 local residents with shore-side frontages advising of the West Wight Coastal Strategy Consultation.  This was followed by an Information session that took place locally at the New Holmwood Hotel.

June.

·         Ward Avenue, Baring Road, Queens Road and Albert Road were resurfaced.

·         The IW Council were persuaded to increase the collection of rubbish from litter bins on Gurnard seafront.

·         In light of the IW Council transferring services to Town and Parish Councils, I campaigned at Full Council to reduce Councillors Allowances.

·         I arranged a meeting with Island Roads, the IW Council and Cowes Town Council to progress a Traffic Order for Cowes High Street.

July.

·         I undertook my Annual survey of street furniture.  Following this, seating at Rew Street was repaired, whilst Dog Bins (Worsley Road) and Litter Bins (Princes/ Egypt Esplanade) were replaced and re-anchored.

·         I consulted with residents and local councils on options to replace railings on Cowes/ Gurnard seafront.

·         I met residents affected by a planning application in Queens Road.  Issues were fed back.

·         Following requests I made, thicker Garden Waste sacks were introduced by Amey.

August.

·         Following an extensive growing season, I chased up requests to trim hedges on footpaths, roadsides and junctions.  These were cut back before schools returned!

·         Action was pursued following Anti-Social Behaviour and damage to woodland between Gurnard Marsh and Sailing Club.

·         Consultation took place regarding Ministerial plans to support creating a ‘combined authority’ for the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton.  Proposals would later be put on ice following disagreements between Hampshire and the unitary authorities.

·         New Planning Enforcement arrangements started to take effect, with a number of call-outs made.

September.

·         Residents and schools were asked for suggestions in naming roads for the new development at Place Road.  Deauville Avenue, Cordelia Crescent and Sunset Drive were selected from thirty names contributed.

·         I suggested that the IW Coastal Path is extended to include both banks of the River Medina to Newport, prior to being adopted in December 2019.

·         I received confirmation from Island Roads that Parklands Avenue would now be reconstructed given its condition (rather than resurfaced) in April 2017. 

October

·         I met parents following withdrawal of road traffic patrol funding.  Gurnard and Cowes councils offered to step up to plug the funding gap for crossings in Park Road and Baring Road. For next year, I am looking at options for both primary schools affected and have met school leads for future sponsorship. 

·         Following ongoing nagging by myself and others Shore Road was resurfaced(!!)

·         Friends Of Cockleton Meadow were successful in its bid for £8000 of funding!

·         Action was taken following Cold Calling, after incidents were reported to me from residents

November.

·         Potential to redevelop public toilets and increase beach huts at Gurnard were rejected by the IW Council following opposition. Proposals also could not proceed given a restrictive covenant for Gurnard Green.

·         I met managers at Cowes Medical Centre and fed back on how new working practices, such as recruitment of Advanced Practice Nurses and navigation by reception staff is being rolled out to support patients.

·         I met Island Roads. Future parking orders, resurfacing priorities and emergency works by utilities companies on newly resurfaced roads were issues discussed, responded to, pursued and fed back.

·         Following power loss at Gurnard Pines, I letter-dropped, visited and provided ongoing support to residents. 

December.

·         At Full Council, I supported proposals for two MP’s to represent the Island.

·         The Valuation Office assessed Business Rates should be applied for, for the Public Toilets at Gurnard. I supported an appeal, which was successful.

·         The public footpath between Egypt Esplanade and Battery Road was repaired and reopened following ground movement stabilising.

·         I contacted HSBC, Lloyds and the Post Office following the withdrawal of services from April. Following responses received, I met and gained support from our MP.

January.

·         A meeting took place with Planning and Housing Officers to discuss enforcement concerns raised by residents at Gurnard Pines. 

·         I complained to Island Roads about emergency works taking place in Newport Road whilst the Floating Bridge was out of action.  Following complaints made the road reopened ahead of schedule.

·         I spoke to and supported residents regarding tentative plans to develop land adjacent to Churchill Close.

·         Following resignations by Council Leaders, I was appointed to Chair the Council’s Scrutiny Committee.

February.

·         A new application was received for 8 dwellings adjacent to Dottens Farm.  I letter-dropped and arranged meetings. Plans were opposed by Gurnard Parish Council.

·         Consultation took place on Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan

·         Suggestions extending Parking Orders for the Church Road/ Worsley Road junction and for junction of Woodvale Road and Baring Road were made. Proposals will free up under-utilised space near to schools, whilst making school entrances safer.

·         At Full Council I opposed the controlling group budget, which increased Council Tax by 5%. The alternative Independent budget I supported, proposed a 4% increase. Independent proposals were legally set and spent less capital on County Hall, would increase financial support for Rights Of Way, Planning Enforcement, investment in Beach Huts, whilst freezing Floating Bridge charges.    

March.

·         Egypt & Princes Esplanades was resurfaced. Beforehand, I liaised with residents, Island Roads and the Community Bus to ensure disruption was minimised.

·         After confirming relocation to Mill Hill Road, the Post Office has commenced their ‘consultation’. Following resident feedback I intend relaying concerns.

·         At Planning Committee, I requested deferral of a decision at a dairy farm in Ryde following concerns I have over the sustainability of the Island’s dairy industry.

·         Pre-Consultation began on an intended Marine Conservation Zones in the Solent.  I have initial concerns on how this may impact upon fishing and sailing.

Organisations and Outside Bodies that I have been a member and supporting 2013-2017.

·         Cowes Town Council. Also Island Roads liaison Councillor (2015-2017); IW Association of Local Councils (2014-2017); 75^th Anniversary ORP Blyskawica Committee (Deputy 2016-2017)

·         Gurnard Parish Council. Gurnard Open Space/ Friends of Cockleton Meadow (Vice Chairman)

·         Northwood Parish Councillor.

·         Local Access Forum. (Vice Chairman). This is a statutory body that oversees Rights of Ways matters.

·         Footprint Trust. (Chairman) This charity, which I’m a keen supporter and Trustee. This group supports residents (often themselves vulnerable) to lower their household utility bills and environmental footprint.

·         Solent Forum.  This organisation oversees Economic and Environmental challenges to the Solent

·         Isle of Wight AONB Partnership. This group oversees management and challenges being faced to the Isle of Wight’s Countryside.

·    Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (until 2017). This Government organisation oversees the sustainable management of inshore sea fisheries for the Isle of Wight, Hampshire and Dorset.

In addition, I was until 2017 the IW Council representative on the IW Rural Fund, allocating Government grants to rural businesses, was a Friends Of Northwood Cemetery Trustee and I serve as a Justice of the Peace.

Responsibilities I’ve taken on since 2013 have included Environment & Transport Scrutiny Committee Chairman (2013-14), Planning Committee Chairman (2015). I joined the IW Council’s Executive as portfolio holder for Planning, Licensing (2015), Environment, Waste and Local Engagement (2015-16), Public Protection and Fire (2016-17).

As a Councillor I’ve been a member of Audit, Appeals, Licensing and Planning Committees.

One year in numbers. As your Councillor:

·         I am contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

·         I work between 30 and 75 hours each week.

·         I attended 395 meetings associated with my role.

·         This includes 26 out of 26 IW Council summoned meetings.  In the last eight years, I’ve attended more meetings than any other Councillor, maintaining a 100% attendance.

·         In addition, I’ve attended 43 informal/ associated meetings, briefings, exhibitions & site visits.

·         I’ve attended 12 out of 12 Cowes Town Council monthly meetings and 11 out of 12 Gurnard Parish Council meetings plus a further 33 meetings and events associated with Parish/ Town Council activities.

·         I’ve received over 3000 emails, 800 telephone calls and 11 letters! I aim to prioritise calls from Cowes West and Gurnard residents within 12 hours of receipt.

·         I’ve resolved/ relayed 922 enquiries. Often resolving the smallest issues have the biggest impact!

·         I’ve arranged 89 surgeries in 15 different venues. Supporting 317 enquiries from 300+ residents.  In 2016 I added more venues, extended times and continue to receive support from other groups. Many thanks to Amey, The Footprint Trust, Developers, Island Roads and the local venues for their support.

·         I’ve leafleted 2,200 Annual Reports, sent out 490 local newsletters and made 99 home visits.

·         I’ve written 12 monthly reports. All are accessible on my website www.paulfullercc@blogspot.com, and available at Cowes Library and are edited for the Gurnard News, The Cowes Magazine and the Beacon. Monthly reports provide regular updates, decisions taken and feedback to issues that I am pursuing.  

I received a Councillors Allowance of approx. £15,750 Gross Pay (1% less than 2015/6).  My expenses for this year, is as follows:

£ 197.32 Annual Report 2015/2016.

£ 701.12 Contribution towards Broadband, telephone, use of home as office.

£ 126.95 Office Supplies (ink, paper, stamps, Printing, newsletters etc.)

£   50.00 Donations.

£ 111.85 Travel.

£  1,187.24 Total Expenses. 

This information is promoted by:  Paul Fuller of 74 Wyatts Lane, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 8QA.