Isle of Wight Councillors Report June 2017

Surgeries.

11-11:30am, Friday 2^nd June, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 6^th June, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

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

6-6:30pm, Thursday 8^th June, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

3-3:30pm, Tuesday 13^th June, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

10:30-11am, Thursday 22^nd June, All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Friday 23^rd June, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 29^th June, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Friday 30^th June, Eegon’s, 72 High Street, Cowes.

New Surgery!

From this month I will be dropping in to the Age Friendly Island coffee mornings at All Saints Church in Gurnard.  These events occur from 10:15 on the fourth Thursday of each month.

Planning: Dottens Farm:- Planning Application for 8 dwellings approved.

As reported last month, the application to build 8 dwellings was the first application to be considered by the IW Council’s new Planning Committee.  Further to comments made, I spoke on behalf of residents opposed to the application and provided what I felt were the most relevant material considerations for refusing the application, these being:

·         SP1- The application being contrary to the principle of being ‘within or immediately adjacent to the settlement boundary’. (The application is adjacent to).

·         DM13- The application does nothing to maintain or enhance Gurnard from settlement coalescence with Cowes.

·         DM11- The application harms, and does nothing to maintain the Environmental and Heritage settings of the listed Dottens Farm and adjoining barns.

·         SP7- The application does nothing to improve highway and pedestrian access safer

·         DM3- The application lacks sufficient mix of housing types, and would be out of the reach of local people either getting a foothold on the housing ladder, or residents wanting to downsize.   

My transcript to the Planning Committee, can be viewed below:

Development for 8 dwellings on land adjacent to Dottens Farm, Gurnard.

Please note that Gurnard is one of the fastest growing communities on the Island with almost 200 new dwellings permitted in the last 10 years.

On the applications principal, I refer to Policy SP1.  SP1 underpins our Island Plan, and only emphasises support ‘within or immediately adjacent to settlement boundaries.

I wish it to be formally recorded the settlement boundary stops on the Eastern edge of Baring Road and the northern edge of Woodvale Road. This is defined and separated by roads, open farmland, hedgerows, and the Ward Estate Wall which provides a clear physical buffer between Cowes and Gurnard. I therefore contest this application is adjacent to, rather than the ‘immediately adjacent’ necessary to meet SP1 objectives. To deviate, in this instance will set a dangerous precedent elsewhere.

References are made to the Appeal decision at Place Road which is 1.5 km away.  These applications are different insofar that:

·        Place Road is immediately adjacent, and abuts the settlement boundary.

·        Mitigation was offered by the creation of affordable housing.

·        The Green Gap is less distinctive upstream.

·        Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan is close to adoption, has been scrutinised and is due to be considered by July’s Executive.

The second ground, contrary to the Island Plan is Policy DM13.  This policy protects our rural villages from settlement coalescence. The safeguarding of the green gap between Cowes and Gurnard was heavily supported by 91% of residents in feedback for Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan, and its protection is a key objective. 

As councillor, I’m devastated by further encroachment deeper into the Jordan Valley given the open ended aspects of the roads.

To the west of Baring Road between Dottens Farm and Tuttons Hill there are 5 properties.  3 are located at the junction 1 km away, whilst the other 2 are Dottens Farm and Smith’s Farm. The fact these remain ‘farms’ in agricultural use highlights the rural setting and context of the street scene.

Whilst accepting limited development has occurred within the Valley, there remains an expectation that some community gain would result.  Elsewhere this includes at:

·        Place Road where ‘affordable housing’ was agreed.

·        Westbrook Lane where over-allocation of affordable housing was agreed.

·        Glen Place where sheltered housing was initially agreed was amended to incorporate 2 bedroomed, single storey bungalows. This reflects local housing need.

The third reason for causing concern is the fact proposals are contrary to Island Plan Policy DM11.

The Island Plan (para. 7.186) states ‘It is not only the historic building and features that are important, but the spaces in between and within these assets and land that surrounds it.  Insensitive development can mean the loss of local identity. The Council will not support proposals which result in a negative impact. 

In Paragraph. 6.24 of the officers report categorically states harm will occur, if accepting any harm, this should be balanced against benefits arising.

Within these proposals there is absolutely no community gain or public benefit.  

Properties planned will be out of reach to locals attempting to get a foothold on the housing ladder, whilst offering limited opportunities to downsize.

Residents are sceptical why this is the case, as this shows scant regard for our community and proposals embedded within Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan.

On Friday, I was very disappointed the Planning Committee did not have the ability to gauge the harm to the rural setting of Dottens Farm by this proposal.  By not allowing access to view this heritage asset meant members could not appreciate the impact this proposal upon these listed buildings. 

As local Councillor, I have concerns over compliance to Policy SP7.  Within the report, it’s suggested some highway encroachment may be acceptable. I do not support this view.

In the last three years there have been seven traffic incidents within 200 metres.  I therefore share concerns of residents, children, parents, Gurnard School, Gurnard and Cowes local councils over highway safety and the need to make the road and local environment safer.

Finally, I add concern that Policy DM3 has been disregarded by the lack of creating a balanced mix of housing types. It is unclear why it was necessary to remove 2 bedroomed units, which better reflected local housing need.

Because this application does absolutely nothing to conserve, maintain or enhance the Environmental and Heritage setting, I ask that Members refuse this application given this proposal is contrary to policies:

DM13, AAP1, DM11, SP1, SP7, DM3

  

Planning: Westridge Farm approved.

Westridge Farm in Ryde proved to be another contentious planning application with residents from Ryde.

This proposal sought to provide 80 dwellings on farmland to the east of Elmfield.  This application was deferred on two occasions, the first to challenge issues in respect to the road access.  On the second occasion the application was deferred due to material concerns regarding the Island’s dairy industry.

Following investigations which took place, the opinion came back that both these reasons (the strongest to justify any refusal) were deemed unsustainable should the matter go to appeal.  In my opinion the tipping point for ‘supporting’ approval seemed to be the concern if the application went to appeal the costs to the IW Council in the long term could cost (when considering the New Homes Bonus) between £250-£500k.

Like the application at Dottens Farm this is as a consequence of Planning Policies where there is a ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’    

Planning Decision sign off’s.

Following implementing conditions to mitigate against ‘material’ objections, planning applications have been approved at Cliff Road and Worsley Road.

Planning Enforcement.

Exposed ironworks in Westbrook Lane and access to parking on Princes Esplanade have been reported.

New responsibilities.

Last month I was thrilled to bits and feel very honoured to be elected as Mayor of Cowes!  Thank you for the support and well-wishes… A very busy year beckons!!

At Full Council, I was re-elected to Chair the Isle of Wight Council’s Scrutiny Committee.  The purpose of the Scrutiny Committee is to Challenge, Support and act as a Critical Friend to the local authority.  It was agreed that the Committee continues to act politically disproportionately.  This ensures that opposition members hold the majority of seats allocated, which is considered effective, good practice.

My first meeting which takes place on 13^th June has requested an update on the operation of the new Floating Bridge.

In addition to Scrutiny, I’ve been re-appointed to the Licensing and Planning Committees the Audit Committee, and for the time-being I retain positions on both the AONB Partnership and Local Access Forum. 

Shore Road Conservation Area?

Following recent developments in Shore Road and Shore Path, I’ve again been asked to investigate whether there is interest in the creation of a Conservation Area for this corner of Gurnard.  Please let me know your thoughts before 21^st June. These will be fed back to Gurnard Parish Council to be considered during the July meeting.

Cash Machines.

I continue to be approached by residents concerned by the shortfall of ATM’s in Cowes, and am seeking opportunities to resolve the current position with members of Cowes Business Association.

Highways Issues.

In my most recent correspondence with Island Roads on Parklands Avenue, I am advised that ‘design and survey’ work is still ongoing and because of this officers are not yet in a position to confirm treatment type for the road.  Once this is confirmed, I’ve been advised that Island Roads will bring their Mobile Visitors Centre to the road, which will allow residents to drop-in and discuss concerns and questions. 

Once dates are confirmed, I will relay these and hope also to be available!

Elsewhere, I have reported a water leak on the junction with Jordan Close in Woodvale Road, Gurnard.

Cliff Road.

There are a number of issues that are currently causing concern to residents of Cliff Road. I’m still in the process of requesting that the waste contractor at one site is transferred from Biffa to Amey to deal with communal waste. This is becoming more complicated to resolve, as the Management Company ‘looking after’ one of the blocks of flats is difficult to contact. 

There is also an issue in the road with perceived abandoned vehicles left on the highway. On this matter, I understand one of three cars are untaxed, and I’ll be taking action to attempt to get this vehicle removed to at least provide one extra space.

In the meantime, I look forward to meeting the Environment Officer to address other matters arising.  

Call Centre Proposal.

I attended the Council’s Executive to find out more about this proposal to build a call centre on the ‘outskirts of Cowes’ which will provide 400 jobs. The IW Council are investing £2.1m of capital investment alongside £35m from the call centre provider. The Council is anxious to point out that this proposal will offer the Island a foothold within this growing commercial market, which currently does not exist locally.  It is anticipated many of those employed will be aged 18-25.

Questions I raised includes what offers will there be of job security, and within the IW Council, might there an opportunity to take advantage of any provider reducing call times within the IW Council’s call centre?  In the meantime thank you to everybody who has contacted me regarding this proposal!

Also this month:

• ·         Trying to avoid small claims, I am attempting to resolve an issue with Trading Standards through mediation.
• ·         I am supporting a resident who has complained about Island Roads trimming vegetation back excessively in Baring Road.
• ·         I have received suggestions from residents asking me to explore potentially extending footpaths in Gurnard.
• ·         Are you a patient at Cowes Medical Centre and do you have an interest in Health Care Provision?  If so please get in touch with me?
• ·         Following residents feedback, proposals for the Cowes Traffic Regulation Order has been submitted to Island Roads.
• ·         With Councillor colleagues, I met with Island Roads and Southern Water who are again are seeking to repair a leak in 100m of pipework to the south of the Somerton roundabout in Newport Road.  It is anticipated work will be carried out for 6 weeks following the Isle of Wight Festival.
• ·         I’ve supported residents who lost their telephone connection, another requiring support for a blue badge.
• ·        I’ve supported a resident who required assistance reporting a planning concern off Park Road.
• ·         Stiff toilet flushes on Cowes Parade have been reported to Cowes Town Council.
• ·         Overflowing Dog Bins have been reported in Cow Lane, whilst in Northwood Recreation Ground in Park Road bins are being monitored following ongoing issues concerning overflowing during weekends.
• ·         Within the new Council I have undertaken mandatory Planning, Licensing, Child Safeguarding and Scrutiny Training 

Isle of Wight Councillors Report: May 2017

I AM CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS RECEIVING AND SENDING EMAILS FROM MY GMAIL ACCOUNT.  I’M EVER HOPEFUL THIS WILL BE RESOLVED BEFORE 12th MAY.  IF YOU WISH TO CONTACT ME PLEASE TEXT ME ON 07 935 090 835.
  APOLOGIES FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE!

Surgeries.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 11^th May, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

3-3:30pm, Wednesday 17^th May, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

12:30-1pm, Friday 19^th May, Eegons, 72 High Street, Cowes. (Please Note New time!)

1-1:30pm, Wednesday 24^th May, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 25^th May, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Friday 2^nd June, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

Local Isle of Wight Council Election.

A very big thank you to everybody who supported me in May’s local council elections. This continues to be a great honour and privilege, and I look forward to working hard for our community and dealing with some major challenges over the next four years!

Please note, that I am here to serve every resident, regardless of whether you supported me or not, and regardless of whether you voted.  From my point of view, I continue to welcome advice and suggestions from residents on how I can serve our interests better, and hope that I can take on board these!

The final results on following the election, were as follows:

PAUL FULLER (Independent) 1,145 votes- (76%); 

CHRIS  PRESTON (Conservative) 293 votes (19%);

CHERYL LOVELACE (Labour) 75 votes (5%)

Turnout for this local election increased from 1,395 (46% of the Total Electorate) to 1,515 (48%), and mirrors the upward national trend of voting.

The Conservative group now has overall control of the Isle of Wight Council, and I look forward to working positively with the new leaders of the Council, and our new Member of Parliament following next month’s General Election.

Planning Updates.

I have become involved in finding a compromise for a proposed development in Cliff Road. 

Enforcement Action is being investigated where a turning head is causing difficulties for neighbours in Gurnard.  I am also progressing ongoing residential complaints regarding a property also in Cliff Road.

Some of the initial complaints concerning the new housing development and the new Range store in Place Road are close to being resolved according to neighbours.  However complaints remain ongoing regarding staff parking on the former Place Road and adjacent grass verges.  I am hopeful that when the popularity of the new store wanes both myself and Cllr Nicholson can meet with managers at the store to resolve the problems being encountered by staff parking.   

In the meantime following feedback from residents of Place Road, I am hoping to set up a residents forum to meet regularly with myself, Cllr Nicholson and developers of the Place Road housing development.

Residents of Shore Road have again requested that I investigate the merits of requesting Conservation Area status for both Shore Road and Shore Path, following recent Planning Appeals.  It is unlikely this can be pursued unless I receive the full support of all residents living in the area affected.

On this suggestion, please let me know your thoughts before 21st June.  This will allow Gurnard Parish Council to take a decision on how best to proceed.

Rights Of Ways.

Once again, I’d like to thank local landowners for their support in ensuring the Gurnard to Thorness coastal path promptly re-opened following this winter’s landslip.

Please note this footpath only remains open with the support and good-will of landowners, and it is of concern to me that motorcyclists and pedal cyclists have recently been seen using this path which is prohibited for very good reasons!  I therefore ask that if you see such incidents, you please report this, or let me know as I am anxious to ensure this important footpath remains open for the benefit of walkers.

Highways Matters.

• ·         Parklands Avenue.

Following me lodging my formal complaint against Island Roads for the delays and lack of communication with residents of Parklands Avenue, I met with officers and a resident on site.

Subsequently Island Roads have now written to all Parklands Avenue residents.  Following several action points outlined on site by officers and provisional timescales being set, I am intending to call a meeting which I hope can take place during June, which will provide an update to residents.  In the meantime, most residents are now aware of the scale of work which needs to take place in advance of reconstruction.

• ·         Disabled Access

I am talking to a number of residents regarding improving access to town via Park Road.  I have addressed these matters with both the IW Council and Island Roads on moving proposals forward.

In addition, concerns have been raised regarding Bus Stop access in Egypt Hill and access to the revetment leading to the Beach Huts from Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

·         School Crossing Support.

Please support Cowes Primary School’s School Crossing on Park Road.  The school hopes to raise £13,500 to sustain the patrol for three years after funding from Cowes Town Council ends for this academic year.  For details please visit: http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/safer-crossings-save-lives.

·         Cycling- Horn Hill, Rew Street.

A resident of Rew Street has asked for me to take action concerning the speed of cyclists entering Marsh Road following descending Horn Hill.  The resident has advised that they have witnessed several incidents and near misses on the bend where Rew Street meets Marsh Road and the road narrows.

Have you been involved or witnessed similar- If you have please can you let me know, so I can investigate taking further action, if appropriate!

·         Grass Verges.

I have requested that excessive amounts of grass cuttings and verge maintenance are tidied in locations at: The Green, Crossfield Avenue, Baring Road and Mountbatten Avenue.

·         Anti-Social Parking.

The parking of high sided vehicles continues to be high on the list of complaints which I receive from residents.  As always following a complaint from a resident, the van owner was happy to move his vehicle once they were made aware of the problem!  In the meantime, can I urge owners of vans to please be mindful of how they park!

• ·       More Anti-Social Parking.

Last month a local resident was verbally abused by a parent, when collecting children from the Pre-School off Woodvale Road following a driveway being obstructed.  This matter has been reported, and very much demonstrates the necessity for a Traffic Order being implemented in this busy area.

Following discussions with parents and residents living locally, this proposal as well as proposals to transfer the parking restriction (from south to north) currently in place between Gurnard Primary School and Battery Road was widely supported.

• ·    Even more Anti-Social Parking- But not locally!

Although I am not the local member for Pallance Road, I’ve received expressions from Rew Street residents of concern over ‘new traffic calming’ which has appeared, parked on the ‘wrong’ side of the road

Because, I am only the Councillor in Pallance Road where there are no properties, I have limited involvement- But I know that Cllr John Nicholson is on the case and am involved with the dialogue between residents.  

Waste.

I am taking action concerning recycling bins that were damaged by the waste contractor in Parklands Avenue.

In addition, I’m supporting a solution for Cliff Road residents who are havin difficulty with communal waste.

Amey Waste Drop-In’s.

Amey’s Community Engagement team will be touring the Island’s libraries to answer your questions about maximising your recycling, reducing your waste and reusing objects in your home.

To ask a question about your recycling and waste, visit one of the drop in sessions in your local library

In the meantime, please note orders for containers and permits and reports of missed collections must be made online at www.iwight.com/waste or via the Isle of Wight Council’s call centre on (01983) 823777.

Additional copies of the 2017/18 Household Recycling and Waste services annual information booklet will be available at the drop-in sessions. You can check your address specific recycling and waste calendar online at www.iwight.com/wasteday  

The full dates, venues and times are:

•Shanklin Library, 12 May ,10am to 12.30pm;
•East Cowes Library, 16 May, 2pm to 4pm;
•Bembridge Library, 17 May, 10am to 12pm;
•Brighstone Library, 18 May, 10am to 12pm and
•Niton Library, 22 May, 10am to 12pm.

Area Of Natural Beauty Update.

I am supporting the AONB Partnership on moving forward with the Dark Skies designation for the Isle of Wight.  I have offered support liaising with Planners to ensure the Island Plan reflects the dark skies with a robust embedded lighting Policy which mirrors the AONB Management Plan.

In addition, an interesting conversation took place regarding the growth of forestry in the last century, how dairy/ cattle farming is changing, and how the landscape of the AONB could alter post Brexit.  

Also this month:

• ·         A number of people have approached me concerning the proposed telecom mast, which has been proposed to be located on land to the west of Rew Street.  I have received comments both for and against this proposal which the applicants state will improve mobile coverage for the area.
• ·         Lids have been fitted to litter bins on Egypt Esplanade which again disappeared during April.
• ·         Once my emails are working again(!), contact will be made with Southern Water concerning leaking pipework in Westbrook Lane, noise from beneath manhole covers in Worsley Road, and springs seemingly coming to the surface again in Market Hill.
• ·         I am supporting residents that have approached me concerning EU citizenship matters.
• ·         I have attended and had my ear bent at Gurnard’s May Queen Event and The 75^th Anniversary of the Blyskawica Commemoration (in East Cowes)
• ·         I have supported a vulnerable resident with a police matter in Solent View Road, and am supporting an additional Gurnard Pines resident getting rehoused in more appropriate accommodation.   
• ·         I’ve been approached by two residents seeking support, following the reduction of ATM facilities in Cowes Town Centre.
• ·         Residents continue to contact me concerning the naming of the new Floating Bridge. Floaty McFloatface, I clearly not the only name which residents feel passionate about…  Although the formal consultation by the IW Council has concluded, I welcome any further suggestions coming forward!
• ·         I have asked for overgrown hedges have been trimmed in Worsley Road and Crossfield Avenue.
• ·         I have been contacted by a number of residents from Solent View Road requesting updates following criminal damage which occurred last month.  In response, I have suggested that residents ask the police to award compensation given the mindlessness of the damage created.  In the meantime, residents have been assured by the police monitoring social media and beach gatherings which take place during the coming months.
• ·         I am campaigning for the IW Council to reintroduce Rights Of Way funding, which was significantly reduced from this year’s budget.  I have met with Ramblers, new Councillors and others to campaign for funds to be reinstated following the offer of this being reviewed on appointment of  the new Council.
• ·         I have contacted Island Roads, and am due to speak to Planners concerning the danger of raised ironworks in Westbrook Lane.   
• ·         The Planning Application for a development in Albert Road was refused by Planning Officers.
• ·         I have reported damaged seats in Church Road and Worsley Road.
• ·         I made an approach to the Revenue Services section of the IW Council, following (in my opinion) an insensitive letter was sent to a resident that had recently passed away. 
• ·         I requested that spoil which was deposited by Southern Water contractors at the Aldi Bus Stop in Three Gates Road was removed, given this impeded access for users of the Cowes Community Bus.  
• ·         I received complaints from residents over businesses operating from the Crossfield Estate, which I am advised is contrary to initial Planning consents.  I am asking that investigations take place into these commercial activities, and residents are advised of the outcome.
• ·         I have been approached by several residents regarding how children with autism are supported by the IW Council.  I am hoping to get the parents concerned together, so issues and concerns raised can be properly addressed and where/ if possible provision can be improved.
• ·         I have been approached, and am supporting an elderly resident who has a small claims concern with a local company.  In addition, I am also speaking to trading standards over an alleged Trade Descriptions Act allegation.
•    I have attended a number of inauguration meetings at County Hall since being re-elected.  I have signed my Acceptance of Office for both the Isle of Wight Council and Cowes Town Council, and look forward doing the same before the first meetings for the current term for Gurnard Parish Council and Northwood Parish Council