IW Councillors Report, November 2021

 

Surgeries:

 

4:30-5pm; Tuesday 2^nd November, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm; Tuesday 2^nd November, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am; Thursday 4^th November, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:45-12:15pm, Wednesday 10^th November, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 10^th November, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:30-12:30pm, Thursday 18^th November, Food Shack & Bar, Gurnard Pines, Gurnard. 

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 24^th November, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11am, Thursday 25^th November, All Saints Church Coffee & Chat, Gurnard.

11:30am-12pm, Thursday 25^th November, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

October.

 

As many people may be aware the last couple of months for me have proved a challenge due to personal circumstances that I have been dealing with.  As a result of this, and following 10 days isolation brought about from contracting Covid, I will be adapting my work/ life balance from this month.

 

Sometimes, you need to work through life changing experiences to understand what is important!

 

Consequently, I will be concentrating much more on local matters.  In recent months, I have spent up to 2-3 days each week dealing with issues from other wards.  This will stop unless there is a Planning link, or where I am a Parish/ Town Councillor. 

 

In the meantime, I would like to thank everybody for their kind words and friendship!    

 

The Jordan Grille, Shore Road.

 

The ongoing saga to content with the removal of the grille continued to cause an issue for me.  Following the support of the lovely Vicky Spencer, from the EA the Isle of Wight Council removed the grille before the October storms set in.

 

Flooding Issues.

 

Apart from Shore Road, I have also been supporting residents in Cockleton Lane, Rew Street and Wyatts Lane where storm water surface drainage continues to be an on ongoing issue.  This problem seems to have been made where ditches have not been kept clear from debris and where semi-permeable front driveways are not properly maintained.

 

In Solent View Road work to replace the tree damaged water main will take place in the coming weeks.

 

A request has also been followed up to monitor discharges entering the River Jordan.  This follows further complaints being received regarding the odour of the river.

 

Toilets.

 

I continue to receive feedback from Southern Water who request that residents please not to dispose of fats, wet wipes, rags, sanitary equipment, condoms in toilets.

 

According to Southern Water, Gurnard is one of the worst areas in the region for this, and although repairs has been necessary over the past few months the issue with blockages continue.

 

Cowes Enterprise College: Design Technology

 

Last month, before getting hit by Covid, I was really looking forward to catching up with Cowes Enterprise College students.  This took place after Half Term, once I’ve fully recovered!  

During the event, I spoke to students about Town Centre Planning and the provision of street furniture which could and should make places better for residents and visitors.  

 

Crossfield Estate.

 

I continue to receive feedback concerning boundary hedges being punched through to increase access to roads on the Crossfield Estate.  In King James Close (where access have been created to both Westwood Close and Winston Close), I have requested these gaps are blocked as when the roads were created it was made clear that no right of way was wanted or required.

 

 

 

 

Planning Applications.

 

·         The Dottens.  This application has been refused.

 

·         Cockleton Lane (Ref: 21/01747/FUL). Proposed 6 dwellings.

 

I called-in this application on the following grounds:

°         Concerns over the size and scale of units and subsequent loss of amenity, privacy and outlook to nearby properties.

°         Concerns over storm water run-off and combined mains and sewerage system.

°         The site lies on a Greenfield site outside the existing and intended settlement boundaries of the Island Plan and Draft Island Planning Strategy. Should any development on the site be allowed this should meet the local housing need, i.e. allow older residents to downsize to single storey dwellings and/or to provide local affordable housing contrary to policy H1.1, H1.2 and H1.3 of Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan.

°         Because there are no special circumstances affording development outside the settlement boundary the Parish Council has concerns over the narrowing of the green space between Meadow View in Place Road (Cowes) and Cockleton Lane (Gurnard), hence creating coalescence between both communities. Therefore this development is contrary to E1 of Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan. 

°         Given the loss of the Cockleton Lane hedgerow, we request the developer provides an Ecological report and mitigate against any loss of biodiversity

°         Given the volume and speed of traffic in Cockleton Lane we have concerns over vehicular access on the lane, pedestrian access to the site, and access via sustainable means. 

°         I am concerned about the potential of lighting and materials used for the permissive path, access road and properties, and the impact this will have upon the rurality of the area. 

°         I am concerned about a lack of permanency of any permissive path.

°         I wish to add to my call-in request the need to remain consistent with relationship to other applications that have been considered outside the settlement boundary within Gurnard in accordance with the Gurnard Neighbourhood Plan.  Examples that I give that has been refused include:  Baring Road, The Dottens and Gurnard Farm (Lower Church Road).   The concern that I have is that as soon as a precedent is made whereby if the hard settlement boundary is lost, then this could potentially dilute the GNP and the definition of the settlement boundary.

 In addition concerns have been raised to Planning Officers regarding applications in Pine Tree Close, whilst comments have been relayed regarding a 5G mask for Baring Road.  

In addition, I have raised concerns over proposals for the former Poultry Farm in Place Road where I’ve expressed concerns over the lack of affordable homes and settlement coalescence.  

 

Other Planning Matters:

 

·         Councillors unanimously rejected proposals to drill for Oil at Arreton.  What was very key during the debate was concerns being expressed over the principle of drilling for oil when the Island is a designated Biosphere Reserve.  The key ground for objecting was the fact that the ‘economic impact’ of exploration was considered by Councillors to be less important than the loss of the economic impact through both tourism, and the impact drilling would have upon the Islands natural environment.

·         I am supporting Councillors with derelict properties, addressing concerns over these being left vacant.

·         I am renewing a bid for extra funding to be made available to support planning enforcement.  I am ever hopeful there may be scope to ensure any extra support can be offered to Town and Parish Councils.  

·         A review is taking place of areas of the lsland where second home ownership is of concern.  It is advised that the tipping point of a communities sustainability is where ownership is around 27%.  In Seaview the figure is 80%, whilst in Yarmouth it is 70%, and Bembridge this is 60%.  Across the Island the figure remains at 5%.  However, since Covid evidence suggests second home owners have switched their primary residence to the Island. 

·         Because of issues concerning the Planning Authorities Planning Website, I am requesting action is taken to resolve some of the issues connecting and downloading documents from the site. 

 

Covid Booster Drop-In’s.

 

These walk-in’s are taking place at The Riverside Centre on the following dates:

 

Wednesday 3 November, 8am - 12.15pm. Open to anyone aged 40 years or over who requires a first dose or a second dose of AstraZeneca.

Friday 5 November, 2pm to 7.45pm. Open to anyone aged 16 or over who requires a first dose of Pfizer, or second dose if eight weeks have passed since the first.

Wednesday 10 November, 8am - 12.15pm. Open to anyone aged 40 years or over who requires a first dose or a second dose of AstraZeneca.

Friday 12 November, 2pm to 7.45pm. Open to anyone aged 16 or over who requires a first dose of Pfizer, or second dose if eight weeks have passed since the first.

Wednesday 17 November, 8am - 12.15pm. Open to anyone aged 40 years or over who requires a first dose or a second dose of AstraZeneca.

Friday 19 November, 2pm to 7.45pm. Open to anyone aged 16 or over who requires a first dose of Pfizer, or second dose if eight weeks have passed since the first.

Wednesday 24 November, 8am - 12.15pm. Open to anyone aged 40 years or over who requires a first dose or a second dose of AstraZeneca.

Friday 26 November, 2pm to 7.45pm. Open to anyone aged 16 or over who requires a first dose of Pfizer, or second dose if eight weeks have passed since the first.

In the meantime, in addition to the above Cowes Medical Centre are also offering Flu and Covid-19 vaccines to patients by appointment, also in addition many local pharmacies are taking bookings for immunisations.

Concerns have also been raised by the NHS directing residents to mainland immunisations appointments.  This is clearly stupid and unacceptable, and a request has been made for the NHS and CCG to sort this matter out.

 

Drones.

 

I continue to receive calls concerning the use of drones, please note the following rules regarding their use:

 

Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in the UK

·         Your drone must weigh under 20kg

·         You can’t fly above 400 feet in altitude or 500 metres from you horizontally

·         Ensure your drone is always in sight

·         Always keep away from aircraft, helicopters, airports and airfields

·         Use your common sense and fly your aircraft safely

·         Any drone weighing more than 250 grams must be registered with the CAA and the drone pilot must complete an online safety test, obtaining a Flyer ID and an Operator ID that should be attached to the Drone.

·         You must not fly within 50 metres of people, vehicles, buildings or vessels

·         Your drone must not be flown within 150 metres of a congested area or any large group of people such as a concert or sporting event as you may be prosecuted

·         If you intend to record in an area where people are, you must inform them before you start, as you will need to respect privacy, or risk being prosecuted

 

If your drone is fitted with a camera there are additional regulations you must follow.

 

·         You must not fly within 50 metres of people, vehicles, buildings or vessels

·         Your drone must not be flown within 150 metres of a congested area or any large group of people such as a concert or sporting event as you may be prosecuted.

·         If you intend to record in an area where people are, you must inform them before you start.

·         If you intend to use the drone for commercial purposes you must have permission from the CAA and comply with additional laws governing their use. 

 

To get guidance on operating permissions for drones see the CAA’s website for the latest information and regulations regarding drone use.

 

Top Tips from the Footprint Trust to help you keep Warm & Safe this Winter.

 

OFGEN has reported that for 15 million Energy Customers, Bills will increase as from 1^st October.  This follows an increase to the Fuel Cap which OFGEN negotiates with energy supplies

 

At the moment to counter these increases a number of independent search engines can help customers get the best deal. These include: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ and  http://www.uswitch.com/ Tel:  0800 688 8557

 

In addition to the above, The Footprint Trust advises:

 

·         Talk to your energy company.  Are you on the best deal? Can you get the £140 Warm Home Discount?

·         Keep safe in a power cut or water failure.  Join the free Priority Service Register call 0800 294 3259 or visit www.ssen.co.uk/psr/southernwater

·         Lag your water pipes

·         Save £200 per year on utility costs! Talk to the Warm Island team at the Footprint Trust on 01983 822282 or email: info@footprint-trust.co.uk.

·         Phone 0800 027 0800 and ask about the Watersure tariff if you have a disability or high water use due to illness.

·         Make sure your torch is charged, and you have spare batteries.

·         Keep a supply of tinned and non-perishable goods in case extreme weather prevents you going out to the shops

·         Make sure you have enough medicine; don’t leave re-ordering to the last minute.

·         Keep important phone numbers on your fridge.

 

Useful Helplines:

 

°         If you are worried about your Fuel Bills call The Footprint Trust on 01983 822282.

°         Islehelp for advice and information on benefits, money issues, rent concerns. Telephone: 01983 823859/ 823898;  Website: www.islehelp.me; Email: enquiries@iwcab.org.uk

°         Isle of Wight Council Covid-19 Support  Telephone: 01983 823600

°         Struggling on your pension? You may be entitled to more money. Pension Credit helpline 0800 991 234.

IW Councillors Report October 2021

 

Surgeries:

 

4:30-5pm; Tuesday 5^th October, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes,

5:30-6pm; Tuesday 5^th October, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am; Thursday 7^th October, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 13^th October, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:30-12:30pm, Thursday 21^st October, Food Shack & Bar, Gurnard Pines, Gurnard. 

THIS SURGERY IS CANCELLED DUE TO ILLNESS.

10:30-11am, Thursday 28^th October, All Saints Church Coffee & Chat, Gurnard.

11:30am-12pm, Thursday 28^th October, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Speedwatch.

 

A very big thankyou to the volunteers involved with Speedwatch. 

 

So far events have been prioritised in Place Road, St. Mary’s Road and Worsley Road.  With regard to the data there is limited evidence to suggest that speeding is an issue in Worsley Road. However, in Place Road there were a number of incidents which have caused concern regarding the speed of traffic.  In response to this, I will be using feedback received to provide evidence to request better enforcement and action to reduce traffic speeds.

 

In October a further survey will take place in Park Road which I hope to join.

 

In the meantime concerning speeding traffic in Park Road, the lovely lollypop lady continues making Park Road safe at school times, but had to take time off in September due to sickness.  The patrol continues to be supported by Cowes Town Council and Cowes Primary School, whilst training continues to be provided by the IW Council.  On this I am making enquiries regarding the IW Council maintaining a pool of trained volunteers to assist during sickness and holidays.

 

Dog Bins.

 

I have received a number of complaints concerning dog owners disposing of household dog waste in bins.  When this happens, particularly with big dogs bins can over-fill quickly which impacts upon those living nearby and genuine dog walkers who the bins are provided for. 

 

Planning Applications:

 

·         Lower Church Road: 7 Dwellings, Land north of Gurnard Farm. Ref: 21/01492/OUT.

This application has been Refused.

 

·         Cockleton Lane: 6 Dwellings, Land south of Old School Meadow, Cockleton Lane.  Ref: 21/01747/FUL.

I undertook a letterdrop to 40 dwellings adjacent to this proposal to build six dwellings and create a permissive footpath link to ‘Meadow View’ in Place Road. The deadline for this proposal is 8^th October 2021 and was discussed by Gurnard Parish Council on 29^th September.

 

·         Place Road: 14 dwellings, Former Poultry Farm, Land adj. 77 Place Road. Ref: 20/02229/OUT.

A modified version of last year’s application to build 14 dwellings is currently being consulted upon.  The deadline for this application is 22^nd October 2021 and will be discussed by Gurnard Parish Council on 13^th October.

 

·         Pine Tree Close: Proposed single/two storey extension, Chase House. Ref: 21/01833/HOU

Following feedback this scheme has been revised. The deadline for comments is 22^nd October 2021.

 

Environmental Health Issues.

 

·         Security Lighting and Garden CCTV.

I continue to receive complaints regarding security lighting within gardens. If you have lighting, please can you ensure this is directed away from those living nearby as residents can find equipment invasive.

 

·         Helicopters.

This is the second complaint received this year regarding low flying helicopters.  Please note that all complaints should be directed to the Civil Aviation Authority at: https://www.caa.co.uk/Our-work/Make-a-report-or-complaint/ and not Environmental Health.

 

Solent View Road closure.

 

It will be necessary to close Solent View Road, as Southern Water have advised that a water main damaged by tree roots needs replacing. 

Southern IFCA group (Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority).  Visit: https://www.southern-ifca.gov.uk/

 

·         As the IW Council’s representative on the Southern IFCA group (Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority), concerns were expressed by high tech. hydraulic crab crushing vessels which seem to be having an adverse impact upon shellfish and marine life in waters around Lyme Bay, Dorset.  At the moment there is no legislation in place to inhibit these vessels from using this equipment. 

·         Since the last meeting, following concerns raised over tankers and cruise ships anchoring off the coast in  ‘marine protection areas’ steps are being taken to add these sensitive areas to Electronic mapping charts.  Contact is also being taken by the MMO to contact the International owners of vessels.

·         Elsewhere during the meeting discussions took place as to how drones are supporting the efforts and enforcement through SIFCA; An update was provided regarding the seagrass restoration scheme on the Beaulieu River, whilst concerns were expressed concerning the fact there is no cap in place for the disposal of dredgings near the Nab Tower.

 

Local Access Forum.

 

·         An update was provided on the West Wight Greenway.  This is (for those who don’t already know) a multi-use thoroughfare between Newport and Freshwater.   

·         Isle Access provided an update on disabled access to the Islands Rights Of Way network.  In addition support was requested to provide beach access to wheelchair users, whilst countryside seating and information on Islandwide public toilet opening times was requested.

·         Because of the wet and warm conditions of this summer overgrown rights of way are of concern.  Work has been carried out to improve access to America Wood.

·         Locally action was taken against Escooters.  Four people were arrested and private escooters were confiscated.

·         Access has been restricted to the beach at Thorness Bay.  This is due to residents flytipping rubbish at this location.  In response the road has been obstructed by a locked barrier.  However, I am advised that the Holiday Park has provided an access adjacent to the barrier to allow for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.  

 

Full Council

 

·         A petition was submitted querying Ryde Interchange and requesting the scheme is considered as part of the Planning process.  Unfortunately because the scheme is considered to be a highway scheme this is not necessary.  From the perspective of proposals, Cabinet has delayed its decision due to the consultation which took place during the summer, as a cabinet member I have spoken to campaigners at surgeries.   

·         A debate took place regarding the nomination of Newport for City status as part of next year’s Diamond Jubilee celebration.  From my perspective in supporting the proposal any costs for this bid are nominal and if Newport were to be successful there may be opportunities available to regenerate the Island’s County Town.

·         I have supported proposals to reconsider speed cameras which has been referred to the relevant scrutiny committee.

·         I supported the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill which is progressing through parliament.  

 

Top Tips from the Footprint Trust to help you keep Warm & Safe this Winter.

 

OFGEN has reported that for 15 million Energy Customers, Bills will increase as from 1^st October.  This follows an increase to the Fuel Cap which OFGEN negotiates with energy supplies

 

At the moment to counter these increases a number of independent search engines can help customers get the best deal. These include: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ and  http://www.uswitch.com/ Tel:  0800 688 8557

 

In addition to the above, The Footprint Trust advises:

 

·         Talk to your energy company.  Are you on the best deal? Can you get the £140 Warm Home Discount?

·         Keep safe in a power cut or water failure.  Join the free Priority Service Register call 0800 294 3259 or visit www.ssen.co.uk/psr/southernwater

·         Lag your water pipes

·         Save £200 per year on utility costs! Talk to the Warm Island team at the Footprint Trust on 01983 822282 or email: info@footprint-trust.co.uk.

·         Phone 0800 027 0800 and ask about the Watersure tariff if you have a disability or high water use due to illness.

·         Make sure your torch is charged, and you have spare batteries.

·         Keep a supply of tinned and non-perishable goods in case extreme weather prevents you going out to the shops

·         Make sure you have enough medicine; don’t leave re-ordering to the last minute.

·         Keep important phone numbers on your fridge.

 

Useful Helplines:

 

°         If you are worried about your Fuel Bills call The Footprint Trust on 01983 822282.

°         Islehelp for advice and information on benefits, money issues, rent concerns. Telephone: 01983 823859/ 823898;  Website: www.islehelp.me; Email: enquiries@iwcab.org.uk

°         Isle of Wight Council Covid-19 Support  Telephone: 01983 823600

°         Struggling on your pension? You may be entitled to more money. Pension Credit helpline 0800 991 234.

News from Cowes Medical Centre

We are pleased to be able to offer Pfizer booster vaccines and flu jabs available on the NHS for our patients ‘by appointment’. 

 We will contact patients as they become eligible for their booster.  Patients who meet the flu vaccination criteria below are eligible now.

Vaccinations are given to those at highest risk as directed by NHS England for safe and effective protection against the risk of COVID-19 and seasonal influenza.

A booster vaccine dose helps improve the protection you have from your first 2 doses of the vaccine.

Most people who can have a booster vaccine are also eligible for an annual flu vaccine.

NHS England advise that it is safe to have both vaccines at the same time.

Covid Booster – eligible patients

Flu Vaccination – eligible patients

at least 6 months after your second dose   ·         those aged 16 or over with a health condition in a clinical risk group   ·         those aged 50 years and over   ·         those in long-stay residential care homes   ·         carers aged 16 and over   ·         those aged 16 or over who live with someone who is immunocompromised   ·         frontline health and social care staff employed   ·         People who are pregnant and in 1 of the eligible groups above can also have a booster dose.

·          those aged 6 months to under 50 years in clinical risk groups*   ·         those aged 50 years and over   ·         those in long-stay residential care homes   ·         carers   ·         those aged 16 or over who live with someone who is immunocompromised   ·         frontline health and social care staff employed   ·         pregnant women

 

*Pre-school children aged 2 and 3 years old or home schooled children are given a flu vaccine by the Practice – school-aged children who attend school are given their flu vaccines by the school nurses.

 Most people will be offered a Pfizer booster vaccine, which means your booster may be different from the vaccines you had for your 1^st or 2^nd doses.  For patients who cannot have the Pfizer vaccine you may be offered an AstraZeneca vaccine, but this will be at a different time and likely to be a different venue due to delivery restrictions.

Planning and Housing Updates.

 

·         Through the Draft Island Planning Strategy, I have now attended most of the 43 Parish Council Meetings/ Library and Community Group Drop-Ins.  In this time, we have met over 600 residents who have offered feedback on the latest proposals for what will eventually (Spring 2023?) become the Island’s Planning Bible.

·         I am at the moment liaising with officers regarding ‘savings’ for next year’s budget.  Within Planning, there are few additional cuts the Planning Department can make as services are cut to the bone.  From my perspective despite being a discretionary function, I am reluctant to in any way touch planning enforcement which remains a corporate priority for the Alliance administration.

·         I am discussing altering my Cabinet position to transfer ‘housing’ to another cabinet role. This follows a perceived conflict of interest I have when talking to developers and housing providers.  I have asked to be able to use my role to increase engagement with local Town/ Parish and Community Councils. 

·         As Cabinet member (apart from the DIPS consultation) I had the opportunity to attend the Islands Expo Event at Wootton.  At the meeting I met a number of businesses and discussed the challenges involved exiting the Covid pandemic.

·         Discussions are ongoing in contending with the Island’s Housing crisis.  In response the IW Council are investigating options to deal with ongoing issues following evictions following the loss of 80% of private rentals.  One of the options being pursued is the use of modular homes.

·         With other Cabinet Members, I met with Vectis Housing.  In addition as part of the DIPS consultation I met with the Chairman of the Isle of Wights Agents and Architects Forum.

 

Also this month.

 ·         I have discussed concerns with a resident over ‘holiday use’ properties at Gurnard Pines.

·         Evidence is being gathered regarding the intended mediation over the Floating Bridge. It is hoped that following this course of action the long term future of the crossing can be agreed.

·         I have been approached by a number of residents who have contacted unable to meet with their Councillor.  Since the Jo Cox MP murder, Councillors no longer have to disclose where they live and in some cases contact can be difficult.

·         I have contacted officers to discuss transferring ‘IW Council assets’ to individuals.  This applies to a grass verge off of Baring Road and a notice board on Cowes Parade.

·         I’m still attempting to see the grille removed from the Jordan culvert in Shore Road. This follows flooding from storm water.