September Councillors Report to Cowes Town & Gurnard Parish Councillors

1. Surgeries:

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Cowes Town Council.

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

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

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

3. Cowes Community Bus.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cemetery Gates, Cowes      0949 1024 1059 1134 1209 1244 1319

Crossfield Avenue, Cowes   0954 1029 1104 1139 1214 1249 1324

Cowes Co-Op                    0957 1033 1107 1142 1217 1252 1327

4. Bathing Water Quality.

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

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

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

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

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

6. Isle of Wight Community Club.

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

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

7. Ward Avenue.

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

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

8. Solent Reach, Princes Esplanade.

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

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

9. West View Road.

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

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

10. Gurnard Green Towns Initiative.

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

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

Elsewhere during July and August:

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

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

13.  I helped resolve a Neighbourhood Dispute.

14. I reported unauthorised street traders to Licensing 

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

16. I took action against No Cold Calling salesmen,

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

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

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

20. This week I have reported vandalised bus shelters,

21. I've reported accounts of fly tipping 

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

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

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

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

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

Surgeries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Cowes High School.

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

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

2. Rew Street.

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

3. Crossfield Estate- Open Planned Conditions.

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

4. Cowes Learning Centre.

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

5. The Glen, Worsley Road.

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

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

6. 8 Cliff Road.

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

7. Ward Avenue Chalet.

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

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

8. Gurnard School.

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

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

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

9. Cowes and Gurnard Beaches.

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

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

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

10. Cockleton Lane.

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

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

11. Woodland, Cowes/Gurnard Seafront.

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

12. School Governors.

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

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

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

In the last month:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Month:

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

Binstead and Fishbourne Elects new Independent Councillor

In 2009, Ivor Warlow lost out by 4 votes in the IW Council elections for Binstead and Fishbourne.  This time, myself and other Independents helped to support Ivor's second campaign to serve Binstead and Fishbourne as Ward Councillor-  The votes have now been counted and Ivor has won...... by four votes! Congratulations, and well done Ivor! 

The full results were:

    
Ivor George Warlow, Independent, 428 votes

Ian Cobb, Conservative Party, 424


Tim Wakeley, Liberal Democrat, 139


Daryll Pitcher, UKIP 93


Mick Lyons, Labour Party, 66

Fire Service Call Centre.

I sat on the Scrutiny Committee which asked questions concerning relocating the Fire Call Centre to Surrey.  Questions were put regarding the technology behind the call centre, and reassurances were given to Councillors that the Fire Call centre would not have the same problems for residents as Netley had when the police call centre relocated off-Island.  Other questions were put regarding response times, local knowledge and why we couldn't have a joint call centre for all emergency services operating within the Island.

All of the responses were answered by the Chief Fire Officer who passionately believes that relocating the call centre to Surrey is best for the Island and it's fire service...  

However given the views of residents, both Councillor Barry and I thought that this decision should be taken by the Full Council (i.e The Fire Authority), and the justification for making this decison should be made within the public arena.  Unfortunatly we were outvoted as all other members of this Scrutiny Committee were supportive of the Cabinet Member making this decision (and are members of the same political group). 

This is the reason why I consider the scrutiny structure fails to work. If you're going to fill politically proportioned Scrutiny Committees, why not do the same with cabinet positions.  What is wrong with all members being part of the decision making process?

At last nights Full Council meeting, members put together a motion so this debate could take place, but due to potential of cost implications within the Council the matter needed to be deferred until July 20th.

Although I've stated I'm reassured by the questions I've put, my decision is finely balanced and if a robust argument can be put forward against relocating this service to Surrey, I'm more than happy to put these forward during this debate and reconsider my current position.

Update on Replacement Bus Service

I’ve confirmed my support of the joint Cowes, Gurnard & Northwood Local Council’s proposals for it’s Community Bus Scheme, and understand this was the first scheme to be received by the Isle of Wight Council.

I remain positive that work on training can now progress.

The timetable the working party asked for will run from 9am- 2pm and will mirror the route of Service 32, calling at Briary Court, Cowes Medical Centre, Cowes Co-Op with a deviation to Rew Street and Hillis Corner. I remain hopeful that the new service will run from Monday - Saturday's, rather than Monday - Fridays (Saturday services will need to be funded by residents paying a voluntary donation on buses)  

What I've been up to in the last month

• I’ve been inundated by residents reps re: the SHLAA and have endeavoured to respond to every letter that has been copied to me.

• I delivered 2100 Annual Reports to constituents and I have taken up a number of minor issues on behalf of residents following its delivery. These included Adult care matters, Grass Verge Cutting, Litter Bins, Street Lighting and Dog Mess.

• I attended the Young People Scrutiny Committee, and challenged delays Reorganising the Youth Service

• I continue chasing a number of Planning Enforcement issues.

• A whole section of Parklands Avenue was repaired following persistent requests.

• The IW Council are chasing up trees to replace those lost following the construction of new homes in Solent View Road.

• I am in correspondence with Waste Services following incidents of fly tipping in St. Mary’s Road Car Park drawn to my attention by a Cowes Town Councillor.

• Hedgerows have been cut back in Place Road, trees have been trimmed in Woodvale Road next to Dottens Farm and trees removed for housing are due to be replaced in Solent View Road.

• I’ve asked for action to be taken by the IW Council following more trees being cut back without permission in Spencers Copse and TPO’d woodland between properties and the sea in Solent View Road.

• Given the public concern, I requested the relocation of the Fire Control Centre to Surrey being considered by Full Council.

• The new Cowes Enterprise College is running a Term ahead of schedule, and it is hoped that children can move into the new school a term earlier than was anticipated.

• A large section of Parklands Avenue has been repaired following damage from winter weather.

Gurnard Beach

Action Taken on Dog Mess, Litter and Beach Parties. 

I've been approached by residents complaining about litter on Gurnard Beach (West of Gurnard Sailing Club), In addition I’ve received complaints concerning dog mess on Shore Path. The Isle of Wight Council, did not intervene because they considered the beach to be satisfactory. I have pointed out that the beach is only satisfactory because residents have been removing litter themselves, and without their support the situation would be a lot worse. I am therefore advising if residents see rubbish they contact the Council on 821000 (or 821105 out of hours) or me on 289595.

 

In the meantime, I’ve asked both the police to ‘increase their patrols’, during the week in order to discourage anti-social gatherings and have requested the Beach Cleaning team to monitor the area for rubbish. I’m asking that this continues to be monitored and reviewed.

On Saturday 25th June, at 10am, I will be joining Parish Council Chairman and others in Gurnards Beach Clean.  I will 'shout' any residents joining the Beach Clean to an Ice Cream after we finish!     

 

A Gurnard Parish Councillor alerted me to the ’Basic Pass’, which the Marine Conservation Society awarded Gurnard Beach. Last year the MCS awarded Gurnard as a ’Recommended Beach’. In the last year Gurnard passed the higher recommended standards for water quality, on all but one occasion. On 22nd September, when this benchmark was not met the quality of water remained within the legal requirements. Of all other 11 beaches on the Island that were tested, only one, Ventnor had the higher recommended water quality standards consistently. Water Quality is tested by the Environment Agency.

 

I have asked the Marine Conservation Society whether they are using the same data as the IW Council does for the Seaside Award, where the MCS are setting the benchmark when compared to the EA and I am asking where they consider there to be a problem and how can this problem be addressed?

Isle Of Wight Festival

I sat on the Council’s Committee, who granted the Licence for this years Isle of Wight Festival.

Local Newport Councillors had expressed concerns that the long term increase to 89,999 from 69,999 will be to the detriment of residents living in Fairlee, Barton and Pan, and suggested numbers remained at 69,999.

From the perspective of objectors, the Police and Highways felt the site was adequate to cope with 100,000, whilst Environmental Health were happy to endorse the steps the IW Festival had taken to finish earlier than in 2010, and had every confidence in consultants to reduce noise nuisance. Therefore, it would have been difficult to sustain any refusal in light of these findings. I suggested than on the condition the applicant liaises closly with Local Councillors, I was happy to see the Festival approved.

Prior to the event  Members of the Licensing Committee visited the site to see for ourselves the steps being taken by organisers.

I also sat on a Licensing Committee that objected to a local business who asked to sell food on two driveways in Fairlee Road, after 11pm. This objection was refused on perceived Crime and Disorder grounds whereby concern was raised that people leaving the Festival Site waiting to be served food could become disruptive and potentially disturb local residents.  This could be if approved, the additional need for a police presence away from the Festival Site.   

Baring Road

There has been considerable disruption for residents of Baring Road since developments commenced at Essex House, The Moorings and at the new Solent Heights (formerly The Brambles) development in Egypt Hill. I have asked that in light of these three developments alongside others nearby, that a traffic scheme was put in place to lessen disruption for residents. Since implementation most problems concerning traffic have reduced.

 

In Egypt Hill, it was noted that damage was caused to the road outside Solent Heights. This has been repaired and continues to be monitored by Highways.  I continue to monitor the situation, and ask that if I miss anything residents lets me know difficulties they experience. 

Parking matters

PAVEMENT PARKING BYE-LAW REJECTED.

The IW Council will not be taking further action following requests for a bye-law preventing pavement parking. Although I continue to receive complaints from residents of Place Road, I am grateful to those residents who are now parking sensibly by allowing enough room for double buggies and motorised scooters to get past.

DOUBLE YELLOW LINES FOR THE AVENUE REJECTED.

I have received complaints concerning residents parking impairing visibility up The Avenue from Tilbury Road. Although I was asked for double yellow lines on the Avenue, the IW Council will take no further action, since this is not recognised as an accident hotspot. The IW Council has suggested that both myself and the Parish Council urge residents to be considerate in ensuring visibility splays are kept clear.

RESIDENTS PERMITS CHALLENGED BY INDEPENDENTS.

 

This week my 'group' met with the Director that oversees car parking, Stuart Love.  Within our alternative budget we wanted to see local car parks filled, and felt that by offering an annual £150 permit would help residents, raise revenue for the Council whilst encouraging more shoppers into our struggling Town Centres.

 

The Director held the view that such a permit would cost the Council money rather than generate income. Last year following the removal of the £75 permit, car parking revenue increased by 18%.  Although it should be noted the degree of increases were more pronounced in some car parks than they were in others.

 

I suggested during the meeting that an area was used (where car park revenue fell or remained stable) as a pilot to see whether we were correct in our conclusions

 

MORNINGTON ROAD: RESIDENTS SEASONAL PARKING TO BE INVESTIGATED

 

One such Car Park that earned less money last years than it did in previous years is Mornington Road Car Park in Cowes

I have been approached by Queens Road and Cliff Road residents requesting to use Mornington Road Car Park, during the winter. Last year the revenue collected from this park amounted to £1066. Of this £1019 was raised during August.

I believe this amount of income does not justify best value- either for the IW Council, or local residents. I am looking forward to discussing this further with Deputy Council Leader Cllr. George Brown (who is the local Councillor for this car park) to see whether there are other options that might be considered.

Pan Meadows: New Homes for Local People?

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

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

SHLAA Update: What Happens Next?

May was frantic in raising awareness to the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment within the Island Plan consultation.

I undertook a letter drop to households immediately adjacent to sites identified by landowners and others for future housing. This was followed up by the public meeting in Gurnard and a more widespread letter-drop by residents of Gurnard and Cowes urging neighbours to visit the consultation and make representations. Many thanks to everybody who has registered their reps, and those who volunteered in the letter drop.

I am optimistic that the Pine Tree Close ’suggestion’, should be the first to be removed as all seven landowners ferociously object to this sites inclusion. Meanwhile, I’ve posted my formal objection about the SHLAA designations online below.

The Council received 891 representations from 550 respondents; 313 related to the SHLAA, whilst 289 related to specific sites in the Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood area. The Planning Policy Unit adds the following:

Next Steps: SHLAA

The Council will use the comments on the SHLAA to update the Assessment, which will include removing sites at the request of the landowners and amending specific site assessments where appropriate. The updated SHLAA will then be available on the Council's website. All sites currently included within the SHLAA will now be subject to much more detailed analysis and that detailed analysis will help the Council to determine which ones remain real options for future housing sites. This analysis will be based upon detailed analysis of transport issues, ecology issues and also analysis of local need and the policies within the core strategy. I would draw you attention in particular to the local needs issue, particularly if your local communities have undertaken any work on a local housing needs survey.

Next Steps Core Strategy

At this stage in the process we cannot make direct changes to the Core Strategy in light of the representations received, we can only suggest to the Inspector the changes that we would like to make. It will be for the Inspector to determine whether the changes that the Council suggest, and indeed changes that people suggested in their representations, can be made to the Plan. This does not mean that we cannot make changes to the SHLAA as this is supporting evidence to the core strategy. Therefore it will be possible to refine the analysis undertaken on the SHLAA sites and update the document itself without impacting upon the content of the Core Strategy.

The Council are not proposing to make major amendments to the Core Strategy (i.e. change the number of new dwellings planned and the general distribution of them). However, the Council will be using the representations received in its work on the Medina Valley Area Action Plan and will be looking in detail at all the sites considered to ensure that it brings forward only the most appropriate options in relation to any development in the Cowes/ Gurnard/ Northwood area. An important element of work on the Area Action Plan will be identifying important local green gaps to ensure that settlements to not coalesce.

To help the Inspector, we are currently summarising the issues that have been raised. This process not only assists the Inspector, but also enables the Council to understand in detail all the representations and any changes that are being suggested. The summary of the issues, along with all the representations received and the Core Strategy and accompanying documents are due to be submitted to an independent Planning Inspector on the 24th June. It is likely that examination hearing sessions will take place in the first couple of weeks in September.

In the meantime, within the Natural Environment White Paper the Government are investigating means whereby local communities can have more of an input within shaping Planning Policy. Although details are a bit sketchy, I’ve been advised there will lie the opportunity to protect important green spaces from future development by their inclusion within ‘Neighbourhood Plans’. If you want to know more please let me know!

Formal SHLAA Representation

26th May 2011.

Dear Sir/ Madam

Island Plan, Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessments- Cowes West and Gurnard.

As local Councillor, I wish to record my objections to the ‘suggestions’ for land being put forward within the context of the Island Plan’s SHLAA. On a general basis, I have considerable concern that the SHLAA includes land within the Jordan Valley which separates Cowes from Gurnard, and land in the Luck Valley which separates Gurnard from Rew Street and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty beyond. This, I feel will impact adversely on Gurnard’s village identity and individual community spirit, and is contrary to the Isle of Wight Council’s policies preventing settlement coalescence.

I wish it to be noted that Gurnard has no commercial bus service, (the current service 32 runs five times daily Mondays to Fridays only, and will cease in September); there is no post office, the school is due to relocate to the eastern edge of the village and therefore Gurnard is not currently considered to be a sustainable community despite efforts to address this.

On a site by site basis, I object to:

Land at Gurnard Farm, Cockleton Lane/ Lower Church Road, Gurnard. (LDF235)

This site has a number of constraints attributed to it insofar, as it adjoins Gurnard Marsh SINC recognised as a wildlife habitat for flora and fauna and is bounded by ponds, marshland and meadowland. Wildlife witnessed adjoining the site includes Slow Worms, Toads and Grass Snakes. The eastern section of this land is Grade 3 Agricultural Land, and I believe should be maintained for this purpose, whilst the western fringe floods when the River Luck’s riverbanks are breached during winter months. With regard to flooding the Environment Agency has incorporated the western fringe of this land within the Flood Plain, whilst it should be noted that the EA considers this area to be subject to tidal flooding given its low lying status. DEFRA has reinforced this (within the recent Shoreline Management Plan) and has highlighted the fact that it will not provide sea defences to protect this area from long term flooding.

Furthermore I have concerns over the encroachment of housing into this relatively unspoilt river valley, which is very ’rural’ in its appearance. I have concerns also regarding the Cross-Solent Gas Main, the Cross-Solent Water Main and main sewer running through the site. Gurnard Farmhouse with its adjoining Cart Shed and Barn are all Grade II listed buildings, and are some of the oldest properties in Gurnard. This site has always fallen outside the development envelope, and once you view this farmland either from Cockleton Lane or from Rew Street it is quite clear to understand the reasons for maintaining the existing outlook and rural fringe from development.

 

Land at Place Road, Gurnard. (LDF381)

This site has a number of restrictions upon it. The biggest concern which I have is that its location is within the rural fringes and green gap which separates the built up areas of Gurnard, Northwood and Cowes. The site itself also has some physical constraints insofar as the River Jordan dissects it. Beneath ground lies both the Island’s Gas Main and Water Main which are strategic cross-Solent pipelines for the Isle Of Wight. I understand there is a requirement that pipelines are protected by a 3 metre buffer should development be permitted.

 

These restrictions in themselves provides a strong case why future housing should be resisted. I have further concerns over access within the site by vehicular traffic. Given the maintenance of the Water Main and Gas Main, I have concerns over how this could occur should this land be developed for housing purposes.

 

I add concerns over the springs which flow through the site and the difficulty experienced with regard to rainwater not soaking away. The geology of the land here, is gravel on clay. I add to this the loss of Grade 3 Agricultural Land, the impact that any development would have on wildlife and the adverse loss of amenity afforded to residents of Place Road.

Land at Pine Tree Close, Cowes. (C150)

 

This site lies within the ownership of seven different individuals. As far as I am aware all owners imply they are opposed to any development on this land. In addition to concerns over land ownership, I also have concerns over the stability of the land, the impact upon ground stability with the loss of TPO’d woodland, the impact upon the adjoining SINC and where access to and from the site would be. I also have concern that the map incorporates an extension to Old Charlton House which has already been built! It should be noted that any reduction in the size of this site by any of landowner, would mean this site fell outside the 0.5ha criteria for the SHLAA.

As Councillor, I add that this inclusion has caused a great deal of anxiety to landowners who are angry that the Council has put forward this site, without prior knowledge. I share residents frustration that they found it necessary to seek professional advice at their own cost in seeking this land is removed from the SHLAA.

 

Land at Dottens Farm, Woodvale Road/ Baring Road, Gurnard. (LDF184)

 

Baring Road, characterises itself by being a distinctive road of Cowes. The wall of the Ward Estate which follows Baring Road has always signified where the semi-rural community of Gurnard ends and where Cowes begins. Baring Road itself has a very unique character as being on the edge of Cowes, and the outlook which arises from this across the Jordan Valley gives Baring Road the status it has, as a unique edge of town setting.

Dottens Farmhouse is a listed building and I would have concerns that any development would have an adverse impact upon not only upon the semi-rural character of the area, but also upon this important Grade II listed building.

Once again I would be opposed to the loss of any rural fringe on the western edge of Baring Road, and feel uneasy in accepting any loss of the green gap which separates Cowes from Gurnard. I also have concerns regarding access to and from the site given the proximity of the new Gurnard School (currently Solent Middle School)- which is the only primary school in the area with potential to expand on its current site.

I am again concerned with the potential loss of Grade 3 Agricultural Land and have further concerns with how Japanese Knotweed from this site could be properly managed if development is permitted.

 

Land at Baring Road and Tuttons Hill, Gurnard. (LDF383)

 

Tuttons Hill is the road that leads into Gurnard from Cowes and beyond, although there are few houses here, they do fit in comfortably and enhances the green-gap associated with the Jordan Valley. Tuttons Hill strategically and characteristically is an important road as residents know they are entering the village itself once they cross the River Jordan at the floor of the Valley. Any development allowed within this important valley would adversely impact upon Gurnard’s village status, and would be contrary to principles of both the Unitary (former) Development Plan and the emerging Island Plan which reinforces policies against settlement coalescence.

The agricultural land (Grade 3) has been used historically for arable farming, and is haven for wildlife.

Land rear of The Glen, Worsley Road, Gurnard. (LDF382).

Although there may be some limited scope to redevelop the site currently occupied by The Glen, I have concerns that any development too far east of the current building line would impede the rural fringe of the Jordan Valley and therefore conflict with Island Plan policies which protects local communities from settlement coalescence.

 

I also have concerns regarding the loss of the rural fringe and green gap, the loss of the woodland corridor which is frequented by red squirrels and badgers and the loss of agricultural land.

Land at Oaklands Lodge, Worsley Road, Gurnard. (LDF063).

I object to further allocations being granted on this site, given it location on the rural fringe. Furthermore, there is woodland within the site which is the habitat for red squirrels. I have also been made aware of badger sets within, and in close proximity of the site and wildlife which frequent woodlands, ponds and other habitats nearby. This site is also located in a relatively unspoilt part of the Jordan Valley, therefore I reiterate concerns regarding settlement coalescence.

In addition to this, I also raise concerns over how the site could be accessed, as the driveway from Worsley Road seems inadequate to serve any housing development. Worsley Lane is in private ownership, and I would consider access from this private lane would prove difficult to establish, particularly for the volume of housing that is being suggested.

 

Yours,

Paul Fuller JP,CC. Isle of Wight Councillor for Cowes West and Gurnard. 

SHLAA Deadline

I have today spoken to the Planning Policy Unit.  Representations concerning the SHLAA will be disregarded if they are not received by the Council's deadline.  Therefore, I ask that residents wanting to make comments do so before 4:30pm Friday, 27th May- so as to be certain your comments will be processed.

The Council will be very strict in their adherence to this deadline.

Surgeries for (End of May), June and July

3-4pm, Wednesday 25th May, Cowes High School, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 7th June, Sports Bar, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 14th June, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

 11-11:30am, Wednesday 22nd June, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

11:45-12 noon, Wednesday 22nd June, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

 

3-4pm, Wednesday 29th June, Cowes High School, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

SHLAA Update

The past month has been quite hectic in raising awareness to the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment within the Island Plan consultation. Within the SHLAA room has been suggested for up to 827 new dwellings within Cowes West and Gurnard.

Site by site, this equates to 156-280 for Land off Tuttons Hill and Baring Road; 138-230 off Place Road; 118-196 at Gurnard Farm, Cockleton Lane/ Lower Church Road; 25-42 at Land rear of The Glen, Worsley Road; 20-33 at land, Dottens Farm, Woodvale Road; 17-28 to rear of Oaklands Lodge, Worsley Road and 11-18 at land off Pine Tree Close, Cowes.

I undertook an initial letter drop to those households immediately adjacent to sites identified by landowners and others for future housing. This was followed up by a public meeting held with the Parish Council in Gurnard and a more widespread letter-drop by local residents urging others to visit the consultation and make representations. Many thanks to everybody who has registered their representations so far, and those volunteered in the letter drop over this weekend. The consultation ends 4:30pm, Friday 27th May. For further details please visit the SHLAA pages of the www.iwight.com/islandplan website.

In the meantime, time is fast running out and I hope to publish my letter on-line in respect to this consultation when the deadline closes....

Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment Meetings.

Two meetings are being called, to discuss the allocations which feature as suggestions for new Housing Land in the Island Plan.

The first will be held 7pm, Monday 16th May at Northwood WI Hall (A Planning Officer will be in attendance!)

The second will be held at 7pm, Thursday 19th May at Gurnard Village Hall, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

The deadline for representations is 4:30pm, Friday 27th May.  Details can be found on the SHLAA website on iwight.com

May Blog coming soon!

In the coming weeks, I'm hoping to deliver my Annual Report to every household so please accept my apologies for putting little news on this Blog.  Consultation is also currently underway on the IW Council's Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment, and I'm hoping that in tandem with delivering Annual Reports, SHLAA Newsletters can go out at the same time to residents living close to suggested sites.  More information on surgeries, the SHLAA and other projects that I'm involved week should feature from 9th May!