IW Councillor's Report, February 2023

 

Surgeries.

 10:30-11am, Thursday 2^nd February, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

4:30-5pm, Monday 6^th February, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 8^th February, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:15-11:45am, Tuesday 14^th February, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

10:30-11am, Thursday 23^rd February, Coffee & Chat, All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

11:30-12pm, Thursday 23^rd February, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Planning Applications.

 

·         Gurnard Pines: Application for 36 zero carbon Holiday Lodges. Ref: 22/02279/FUL

Further to last years’ public meeting and consultation by the applicant, proposals to redevelop a previous vacated part of Gurnard Pines is under consultation.  The deadline for comments is 24^th February.

 

·         28 Albert Road, Gurnard.

The most recent proposal to develop at this location has been withdrawn and revised.  This follows a number of objections being made regarding overdevelopment of the site.

 

·         Former Poultry Farm, Place Road, Cowes.  Proposal for 14 dwellings.  Ref: 20/02229?OUT

Following concerns raised over highway access and affordable housing allocations this proposal has now been conditionally approved.

 

·         Agricultural Dwelling, south of Cockleton Farm, Cockleton Lane, Gurnard.

Following this application being referred to Enforcement proposals to develop an agricultural storage area was refused.

 

·         Bucklers View, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

Because the timeframe to commence on this application has lapsed, it is now necessary (should development be required) to submit a revised proposal.  Because of this, I have requested Southern Housing clarify their position. 

 

·         Permitted Development Scheme, Baring Road.

I have contacted Planning Enforcement following being notified of a ‘larger than life’ dwelling in a garden.  Over the years, I have received similar enquiries concerning outbuildings.  In the meantime this structure is being monitored.

 

Gurnard Pines Complex.

 

Please see a copy of the GUPI Properties Ltd statement concerning the closure of the Gurnard Pines Complex:

 

Today 30th January 2023, we can confirm that GUPI Properties Limited has forfeited the lease in respect of the Central Complex at Gurnard Pines held by The Cowes Club (IOW) limited, due to non-payment of rent, insurance and utilities. GUPI Properties Limited has taken possession of the building and changed all locks.

 

The management team of GUPI Properties Limited appreciates that there has been many unforeseeable factors that have affected the current leaseholder’s ability to make the business succeed such as COVID, Utility prices and the cost of living crisis. GUPI Properties Limited is in a strong financial position and believe, with the local community’s support we can make this centre thrive once more.

 

We will be looking at the current use of the space within the building and are considering how the use of the Ballroom and Chartroom can reach its full potential, allowing events such as weddings and parties to take place in the future. We are committed to ensuring all staff are offered employment where possible and that funds are made available for improvements and repairs to the building.

 

The centre will be closed from today whilst improvements and repairs commence, it is anticipated that we will reopen at the beginning of March, with a fresh look and ready to invite all Gym members and visitors alike.  Please remember that The Pavilion (Bar and Restaurant at the rear of the building) is open for business as usual and would really appreciate the extra support whilst the main centre is closed.

 

We would like to apologise for any inconvenience that today’s events have caused but are confident that going forward with all your support this will be a great success.  For anyone wishing to offer suggestions of how we can improve the facilities previously on offer, we would welcome e-mails to be sent to info@gurnardpines.co.uk or find the gurnardpines facebook page to get more information.

 

Council Tax Support for families on low incomes.

 

One of my commitments on re-election was to campaign to offer support for those working families on low incomes.  In previous years this level of support through Council Tax has fallen from 100% to 65%, this followed government prioritising support only to those of pensionable age.  At Full Council, I supported proposals to raise the level of support from 65% to 70% given the impact Council Tax debt has upon low income working families. 

 

Post Box Update.

 

Good news for followers of the Cockleton Lane Post Box.  Following its base corroding Royal Mail has reported this much loved Postbox will be replaced.  I will continue to chase this and thank you for the feedback from residents!

 

Southern Water: Free Water Butts!

 

Further to last years announcement, Southern Water has confirmed ‘following investigations in Cowes and Gurnard to determine which roads contribute to storm overflows’ Accordingly ‘these roads have their roof drainage connected to the foul sewer, which causes the system to become overwhelmed when it rains. By holding rainwater in water butts until the rain has stopped, can ‘slow the flow’ of water reaching the sewer and reduce storm overflows.  Eligible households will be offered a free water butt; complete with installation by their team who visit door to door between January and March.

 

The eligible households in Cowes and Gurnard are: Solent View Road, Albert Road, Worsley Road, Church Road, Baring Road, Woodvale Road, Woodvale Close, Shore Road, Jordan Close, Hilton Road, Shore Road, Solent Lawns and Gurnard Pines.  A ‘Drop-In’ is being held at Gurnard Village Hall from 4-7pm, Wednesday 1^st February.

 

Pavement Parking.

 

I have received a number of complaints concerning off-road parking on front drive ways, where access to footways is impassable because of the size of vehicles.  To note, jurisdiction for enforcement remains with the police. Please, if this applies to you ensure your vehicle/s are parked safely and pavements outside your home remain accessible to pedestrians, push chairs and wheelchairs.

 

AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) Meeting Updates.

 

·         Farming.

At a recent meeting of the AONB Partnership it was reported of the concern by the farming community over the certainty of future funding, following the lack of clarity on financial support after leaving the European Union. Although support has been offered by Government, there has been no details of where this may come from.

 

·         Beavers.

Following last years consultation by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, 89% of 4883 respondents were positive about newly protected beavers being released here (focused in the valley of the East Yar) 

 

·         Military Road.

It is believed that the life of Military Road could prove limited following the extent of landfalls following the cold spells this winter.  At present the life of the road (without any intervention) could be as little as less than 5 years.  At present there is ongoing debate on whether the road should be left, or whether a short term scheme to barrier and pile the road she commence.  At the moment, the IW Council are working with stakeholders to find a solution whereby any barrier would not adversely impact upon the setting of the road and AONB.

 

Please let me know your views!  

 

Highways Issues.

 

·         Bucklers View junction.

Following complaints concerning impeded sight lines, Island Roads have reduced the height of foliage outside Bucklers View.  This has been necessary at this time to avoid the bird nesting season which restarts this month.

 

·         Gurnard Green.

Following the above Gurnard Sailing Club will be doing the same to trees adjacent to Gurnard Green.  On this, I have requested before works commence that the IW Council’s Tree Officer has his overview of necessary works.

 

·         Abandoned Vehicles.

These continue to be reported to me and the IW Council.  For details see: https://www.gov.uk/report-untaxed-vehicle

 

·         Pot Holes.

Following sub-zero temperatures this winter, our Island is currently rife with pot-holes. For everything you wish to know about pot holes call 01983 822440, or visit: https://islandroads.com/our-highway-service/maintenance-activities/potholes/#:~:text=To%20report%20a%20pothole%20on,this%20via%20our%20online%20form.

 ·         Waste Bins.

The IW Council have taken over responsibility of waste bins from Island Roads.  Following complaints over the delay replacing bins, I’ve am aware that given the transferral of this service is the reason for why delays have occurred…

 

·         Pavement Parking.

I’ve received complaints concerning vehicles parked in front drive ways that lead to footways becoming impassable for pedestrians. If this may apply to you please ensure vehicle/s do not cause obstructions and pavements outside your home are accessible for all!  If this proves not to be the case the police (currently) have powers to enforce.

 

·         Un-adopted Roads.

There are a number of private and un-adopted roads that have caused issues for refuse collectors, with incidents whereby operatives have received injuries on unkempt roads.  In response to this, Amey and the Waste Team are talking to residents where hazards have been identified. 

 

Under legislation (apparently) it is the responsibility of the homeowner behind any dangerous section of road to ensure this is kept safe, rather than the road owner. Accordingly, I am advised that the operator can in theory request that bins are left at the top of any road. However, I am mindful that this will only be actioned as a last resort!

 

The local roads of most concern is Hilton Road and Debourne Manor Drive. However, Harness Lane, Battery Road and Brambles Lane could become roads of concern if the level of repair is not maintained     

 

 

Renew your garden waste subscription

 

Existing green garden waste subscriptions are now open for renewal.   If you pay by Direct Debit and your bank account details have not changed you do not need to do anything. Your subscription will automatically renew from 1 April 2023. If you pay annually, you can now renew your subscription.

 

If you do not have a current green garden waste subscription, you can apply from 8am on 23 February 2023.

 

The garden waste collection (GGW) is a subscription only service for domestic properties. You can have multiple subscriptions for one property. You can also share your subscription with your neighbours. Subscriptions cannot be taken out for businesses.

 

The subscription year runs from the 1 April until the 31 March the following year.

 

This service can be used alongside any collection plus services or assisted collection. If you do, your garden waste will need to be placed in your agreed allocated collection point.

 

·         Apply or renew

It costs £96.00 per subscription, per year. You can pay by: a single one-off payment of £96.00 by credit or debit card. This does not renew automatically.

 

Direct Debit £96.00 annually, which will automatically renew. Direct Debit payments are collected on 10 April each year (this option is only available online) Direct Debit monthly payment of £8.00, which will automatically renew. Payments are taken on the tenth day of each month. If you cancel mid-year, you have to pay in full (this option is only available online).

 

If you cannot apply online, call 01983 823777.

 

·         When your garden waste will be collected

Collections take place every 2 weeks. Set your garden waste bin or reusable sacks at your collection point on collection day by 7am. We do not accept side waste on this service. Extra waste that does not fit in your bin or reusable sack will not be collected. You can choose from either a 240 litre brown lidded bin or three reusable garden waste sacks (same total volume as a 240 litre bin).  Your garden waste bin or reusable sacks will be delivered within 14 days after you subscribe to the subscription service.

 

Cowes Floating Bridge.

 

It was reported at the Policy and Scrutiny Committee for Neighbourhoods and Regeneration that the Floating Bridge has operated 97% of its sailings in the past 9 months.  Where there has been cancellations, this has been in response to staff sickness.  The biggest fault with the crossing is when the pins that hold down the ramps get damaged.  Following these incidents, down-time is for 2-3 hours whilst repairs take place.

 

There remains issues with the chain when tides are high. From a recent survey a request was made for the webcam to be live rather than having a 10 minute delay.  In respect to this a call to resurrect the brilliant Floaty Finder app. was made.  It was reported the Floating Bridge User Group was impacted and discontinued following Covid.    

 

Misses Ward Trust.

 

I was recently approached to raise awareness of the Misses Ward Trust.

 

The charity is a philanthropic trust whose funds are invested to provide financial donations to benefit persons in need who live mainly in the Cowes area. A recent example of the use of the fund was to help children to go on an out of school activities trip which their parents could not afford.

 

The Misses Ward Charity is only a small fund compared to some other similar charities. The Trustees could not usually provide more than £300 or thereabouts in any one case. Funds may be made available for an identifiable specific charitable purpose (such as the example above) which meets the terms of the trust.

 

If you know of any person who may benefit, please let me know.

Hedgehog Corner:  Badgers- An Asymmetric Intraguild Predation Relationship explained!

 

Unsurprisingly in the last few weeks, I’ve received a very full mail sack regarding the conflict between badgers and hedgehogs.

 

Badgers disappointingly are hedgehogs’ main predators in the UK. They are the only animals strong enough to tackle a hedgehog’s spiny defences.

 

Hedgehogs and badgers share what’s known as an asymmetric intraguild predation relationship. Badgers can affect hedgehogs in one of three ways:

 

1.     Competition; the two species compete for many of the same food sources. These include soil invertebrates such as earthworms and beetle larvae.

2.     Predation; badgers can predate hedgehogs.

3.     Avoidance; hedgehogs will avoid areas where badgers have been active. Where there are many badgers, hedgehogs are likely to be less common.

 

While badgers do prey on hedgehogs, this is natural predator-prey interaction. Although badger numbers have boomed in recent years, there is little evidence that suggests they are the main reason why hedgehogs are in trouble. Indeed, hedgehogs are struggling in rural places where we know few badgers live, like East Anglia. Where conditions are favourable and invertebrate food is readily available, the two species can co-exist.

 

The two species have co-existed for thousands of years, which suggests that recent human activity has been a more prominent factor in the decline of hedgehogs. We would never condone the killing of badgers to help hedgehogs.

 

Memorial Benches.

 

A request was received regarding adoption of Memorial Benches.  In general terms this tends to be discouraged due to conflict following complaints received regarding ongoing maintenance and issues relating to the sensitivity of Family Members and benches public use for seating.

 

Report as Planning and Enforcement Cabinet Member.

 

·         In light of potential new planning legislation, Full Council resolved to further delay the Island Planning Strategy until after the Governments new planning policy is formally adopted in late spring. To feedback visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/levelling-up-and-regeneration-bill-reforms-to-national-planning-policy. This consultation continues until 2^nd March

·         I hosted a briefing session on potential new legislation to IW and IW Association of Local Council Councillors

·         With Cllr Ian Stephens, I facilitated a meeting to make headway on Affordable Housing options.

·         In the IW Council’s 2021/2 Annual Monitoring Report. It was reported that 1005 homes were granted permission, 490 were completed which resulted in 114 being affordable.  This is above national targets for determining majors, minors and other applications.

·         69% of units permitted were on brownfield sites.

·         In the coming weeks and months, I will be requesting an update from Local Town and Parish Councils on their priorities for schemes through developer contributions (S106)

·         Concerns remain ongoing concerning the number of potential private rented residential properties being utilised for holiday use, elsewhere it is ironic that holiday sites developed for precisely this reason is currently being used for social rented housing…  I am seeking means and potential support to address this.

 

Report as Gurnard Parish Council Chairman

 

·         It was with great sadness that Gurnard Parish Council’s clerk Katie Riley stepped down last month.  Katie will be a hard act to follow, and she will be missed by residents and Councillors!  Following advertising the post, the Parish Council are hoping to appoint a new clerk following its extraordinary meeting on 2^nd February.

·         Thank you to all 93 residents who fed back their views of parish priorities in the recent consultation in advance of the Council setting its precept for residents.  In response most residents seemed in general support of priorities. Details will be shared by the Council  to residents once feedback has been digested.

·         The second meeting of the Beach Working Party will meet early this month.  Whilst many residents in the consultation seemed to support monitoring water quality, there seemed less enthusiasm in supporting any buoyed off areas for swimmers.  That said, from the perspective of the Parish Council this would seem that any prioritisation for doing this should in the first instance be considered by the IW Council.  

·         A meeting is taking place with the Women’s Institute to listen to and agree options for management and future use of Gurnard Village Hall. The views of the WI will be relayed to the Parish Council for consideration.

·         Following complaints of Anti-Social Behaviour at Old School Meadow which was reported to the police, a meeting of the Working Party will take place to discuss options for the spring.

 

Also this month.

 

·         It was reported that currently over 90% of waste on the Isle of Wight is diverted from landfill.  It is anticipated once the plant is fully operational at Forest Park, landfill diversion will increase much further. 

·         With Cllr David Walters, I’m investigating whether a position upon Cowes Waterfront Trust can be resurrected for an elected member.  This follows a condition agreed when the IW Council IW Planning Committee supported proposals for Cowes Yacht Haven. At the time of this decision, I was a member of the Committee and supported the resolution tabled by Cllr Reg Barry.

IW Councillor's Report, January 2023

 

Surgeries.

 

3-4pm, Monday 9^th January, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 11^th January, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:30-12pm, Thursday 17^th January, Eegons, 85 High Street, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 25^th January, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11am, Thursday 26^th January, Coffee & Chat, All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

11:30-12pm, Thursday 26^th January, Eegons, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Gurnard Press.

 

I would like to say a huge thank you for the support of the owners of Gurnard Press due to close at the end of December.  Over seven years, I’ve seen the old newsagents grow and grow in popularity as not only a café, but also a community hub for Gurnard. I remain ever hopeful that new owners can be found and take the facility from strength to strength.

 

The Pavilion, Gurnard Pines. 

 

I know that residents and myself thrilled to see the café at Gurnard Pines reopen.  Last month with new proprietors, Katie and David’s support, I hosted surgeries to help residents looking for assistance during the Cost of Living crisis. I am looking forward in 2023 to maintain surgeries at the ‘Pines.

 

Cost of Living Crisis.

 

·         Holiday Parks.

Because of issues for Holiday Park residents, exempt from the same support to those living in standard, I’ve approached MP’s regarding this. In the meantime, there is a petition to Government, which can be found at:  https://www.parkhomemagazine.co.uk/news/lets-get-park-home-owners-energy-bills-justice/

 

Because support is different, depending upon categories of householder and individual needs please contact the Footprint Trust on 01983 822282 to have a one to one with an energy advisor.  In the meantime let me know of success (or not) as this will let me know where I steer my campaign next.

 

·         Cost of living website.

The IW Council launched their website https://beta.iow.gov.uk/keep-the-island-safe/cost-of-living/ to support residents.  In response, I have copied and transferred this as a hard copy which has been updated and features in my IW Councillors Report for January, available from Cowes Library. 

 

English Coastal Path: Length 8 Thorness Bay - Gurnard Luck and Length 9 Gurnard Luck – Cowes.

 

At the Local Access Forum meeting, Natural England reported on length 8, the major issue requiring redress was high tide access over the bridge that crosses the Thorness stream.  On length 9, it was reported that agreement was made to routing the trail (as residents had requested) through Spencer’s Copse following negotiating the route through the woodland with grateful thanks to the landowner.  In addition the old slipway leading from the beach to Shore Path would be made safe. 

 

Because of landowners support, it was anticipated (if approved) this section of the trail could open late 2023/ early 2024.  With respect to finalising the complete trail, discussions remain ongoing with landowners between East Cowes and Wootton Bridge.

 

Council Tax.

 

Work is underway to set next year’s Council Tax.  Because of increased costs, this is likely to prove really challenging without substantial extra financial support to keep services in place. Following feedback, I have asked to include the ability to comment. 

 

This follows representations made by Councils for extra support to maintain services across the UK, given rising pressures in adult and children’s social care. The consultation continues until 30^th January.  To have your say on where you feel the Council spends our money visit:  https://www.iow.gov.uk/Council/OtherServices/Financial-Management/Budget-Consultation

 

Waste and Recycling.

 

·         Annual Consultation. This consultation continues until 30^th January. With the prospect of changes taking place, this survey is important. Paper copies are available from libraries, whilst the online version can be found at: https://beta.iow.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste/how-are-we-doing/annual-customer-satisfaction-survey/

 

·         Recycling.  Last month a numpty left a marine flare out for ‘recycling’. The consequences of doing this could of course have been catastrophic. Please use common sense when disposing of rubbish!

 

Southern Vectis: £2 Fare Cap

 

Following feedback from passengers, Go Ahead who own Southern Vectis has now agreed to the £2 single fare price cap.  This will provide savings for Islanders given that the minimum fare on the Isle of Wight was £2.50.

 

The scheme runs through to 31^st March, and it is worth noting that if you do transfer buses, you are required to pay the maximum of £2 for each leg of your journey. 

 

Winter Gritting Routes.

 

Winter Gritting Routes will remain in place for Place Road, Tuttons Hill, Worsley Road, Shore Road, Woodvale Road, Baring Road, Crossfield Avenue, Ward Avenue and Park Road. 

 

If need arises, I will request one off treatments take place.  Previously this occurred for Cockleton Lane, Egypt Hill and Rew Street. For Islandwide details of the winter gritting program visit: https://islandroads.com/winter-service/

 

Annual Planning and Enforcement Report.

 

·         Island Planning Strategy

 Work continues with residents and stakeholders to issue a plan (which will be used as the development bible) that is acceptable to Isle of Wight Councillors and the communities we are elected to serve.

 

Within the Planning Strategy there are policies that prioritises lower housing figures (Government suggests the Island should develop 730 units per year, the IPS suggests 479), affordable housing for local people and prioritising the development of brown field sites over green field sites.  Following feedback received, new policies were created and added to strengthening further infrastructure needs, the economy and our environment.  Although there continues to be some items within the Strategy of concern, these need to be evidenced based, defendable and consistent to meet Government Planning Policy for the next stage of engagement with the Government Inspector.

 

A few weeks ago, Michael Gove the Minister for Levelling Up announced through a Ministerial Statement, pending revisions in a new ‘NPPF Prospectus’.  This is due to be issued before Christmas giving greater clarity on substance and timeframes for implementation and consultation.  With many of the issues being suggested, the Isle of Wight Council was prepared, and has already included policies within the Strategy.  From my position the welcomed minister’s statement can only strengthen the work the Planning Team have undertaken in the past few years. 

 

·         Planning Peer Review.

 This year the Isle of Wight Council’s Planning Service undertook a Local Government Association Peer Review with stakeholders to make improvements to the service.

 

One of the major issues highlighted, was the limited size of the team and how this impacted upon the Council’s ability to process applications.  As a result, through recruitment the Team are in a stronger position with backlogs (although still an issue) being reduced.

 

In addition training, support for stakeholders and dialogue with applicants have improved.  On a personal basis, I have requested improvements on the interface the Planning department has with the wider community.

 

Planning Enforcement is another area that has been supported, through work with local town and parish councils.  Most notably my gratitude to Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council who have offered support for a new officer to join the team.  If this proves successful, I am hoping this can potentially be rolled elsewhere.

 

Also this month.

 

·         I have received a number of complaints concerning off-road parking on front drive ways, has made access to footways impassable because of the size of vehicles.  Jurisdiction for enforcement remains with the police, who have always taken a common sense approach to this. Please, if this applies to you ensure your vehicle/s are parked safely and pavements outside your home are accessible to pedestrians, push chairs and wheelchairs.

·         I have been in liaison with Island Roads and the IW Council concerning a complaint made regarding access to the Post Office in Cowes High Street.  I have emphasised the overwhelming importance of this service and have requested that a resolution is found.  

·         A very big thank you to Cowes Golf Club who are working with their members on complaints by Baring Road residents made regarding access and the distance to toilet facilities.

·         A request has been made to replace a damaged bin as a matter of urgency at Uplands Road.  Island Roads have suggested this will take three months to replace, which I consider wholly unacceptable.

·         A request was received regarding adoption of Memorial Benches.  Until now this has been discouraged following any agreement concerning ongoing maintenance.

·         Many thanks to a local resident who has continued to look after Rew Street pond.  I am currently in dialogue with Island Roads over drainage issues in Rew Street and have requested that drains beneath the road is annually kept clear.

·         I have received continued complaints of motorcycles, their use at Old School Meadow, noise and damage being caused.  This has been reported to the police.  

·         Typically hedgehogs hibernate from late December until March. If you accidentally disturb a hibernation nest, cover it back over with a thick layer of dry leaves, leaving water nearby, so if the hedgehog does wake up he can easily find something to eat before finding a new hedgehog corner to rebuild its nest.