October Councillors Report

Surgeries:

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

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

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

3:30-4pm, Wednesday 19th October, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

11-11:45am, Wednesday 26th October, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

12:15-12:45pm, Wednesday 26th October, Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

6pm-6:30pm, Tuesday 8th November, Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

1. Cowes Community Bus.

The new Community Bus has been operating for a month, and the service seems to have settled in fairly well. I’ve spent a couple of days, on the bus talking to passengers to gauge views on how to improve the service.

 In the first couple of weeks problems were encountered in getting the bus from its school run, in time for its 9:30am from Cowes. Concerns were raised over delays to the first bus, issues relating to the fact Rew Street and Hillis Corner being no longer served and the fact that the new timetable could become tight once Solent View Road and Lower Church Road, Gurnard reopens in the next few weeks. Although solutions have been identified, the issues continue to be monitored.

Last month the BBC helped promote our bus Service by filming features for both the One Show and The Peoples Lottery. Many thanks to all residents for being involved!

2. Cowes and Gurnard Bathing Water Quality Meeting.

Last month I called a meeting with the Environment Agency, Southern Water and IW Council’s Parks & Beaches to discuss concerns raised by Gurnard Parish Councillor, Marie Bugden over Gurnard losing its recommended beach status, this year and over August’s Water Quality failure at Egypt Point.

Issues were raised regarding Fat and Rags blocking Southern Water’s Pumping Station, problems being encountered following storms and issues concerning raw sewage being discharged by commercial and pleasure craft in the Solent. Locally, it was agreed that I would arrange a meeting between Cowes Week Ltd and the EA, to investigate options to improve sea water quality. It was also agreed that all agencies would work together on publicity for residents which will be relayed through the IW Council’s One Island Magazine.

3. Green Towns

I’ve passed ‘evidence’ to the Green Town’s Team, and am hopeful Gurnards application will be approved.

4. Police Matters.

Following residents’ comments , I’ve contacted Andrew Turner MP over concerns relating to Crime & Disorder.

Although, we recognise we live in one of the safest places nationally, I’ve passed on concerns to the MP over the loss of the front desk, the imminent closure of Cowes Police Station and to the loss of frontline police officers.

Last month I was one of a handful of Councillors echoing this concern when Chief Constable, Alex Marshall was on the Island. At the meeting he gave Isle of Wight Councillors a steer on his thoughts of how CCTV footage should be monitored and this is something I trust members will digest when setting budgets for next year! He spoke about how victims of crime will receive a follow up, spoke about how pubs causing high levels of anti-social behaviour would be closed down and gave me his reassurance that more hand held cameras will be made available for Community Speedwatch Schemes.

5. Gurnard Village Hall Cyber Café.

Gurnard Village Hall Association are running a Cyber Café at 2-4 pm on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Hall. Sessions are open to anybody of any age and costs £1 per person- which entitles ’surfers’ to refreshments and unlimited access to the internet.

Residents can use either the lap-tops provided, or you can supply your own. There is help available to assist novices on shopping online, emailing, writing letters, surf the internet, change energy and insurance suppliers, book tickets, contact old friends, Skype, Blog, play scrabble, bridge and much, much more!

For further information contact Carolyn on 297154.

6. Gurnard Village Green Application, Gurnard Luck.

The Hearing is due to take place on Wednesday 12th October, at County Hall. The General Purposes Committee have two recommendations to consider; Either to agree to part of Village Green Application being approved, or to ask for an Independent Inspector to review the case should the Committee decide there are too many contradictions in the evidence provided.

 Many thanks to residents involved in the supply of statements!

7. Parliamentary Boundary Review Consultation.

The Boundary Commission are consulting on future parliamentary constituencies following the governments decision to reduce Members of Parliament from 650 to 600. The Consultation takes place until 5th December. If you want to know more please contact the Commission on 020 7276 1102. You can participate online or alternatively by writing to: The Boundary Commission for England, 35 Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3BQ.

 

The Boundary Commission proposes 1 MP for Cowes, Newport & Ryde (NORTH) and 1 MP for Sandown, Shanklin, Ventnor & West Wight (SOUTH). However in the Boundary Commissions proposals Carisbrooke (part of Newport PC) and Haylands/ Ashey (part of Ryde TC) is included within the South constituency. In my representation I’ve suggested that as an alternative Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin & Ventnor become one constituency (more relevant upon tourism), whilst Cowes, Newport & West Wight becomes another (more relevant to industry). This would save Newport and Ryde Town Councils being dissected in having 2 MP’s

8. Preparing For Winter…

At this time of year, I usually receive calls concerning how residents can stay warm, and save money on fuel bills during the winter.

 

The IW Footprint Trust can save householders over £300 from annual energy bills. For details call 822282, or visit http://www.footprint-trust.co.uk/energetic.htm

9. Gurnard Village Tidy Up: 10am, 22nd October

Gurnard’s next Village Tidy-Up takes place from the Village Hall at 10am, Saturday 22 October.

I will be treating all participants to a hot drink or ice cream (depending on how long the summer lasts!) afterwards.

10. Radio Mast Pre-Application, Crossfield Avenue Update.

A Planning Application is pending for a replacement Transmitter at Cowes Golf Club once the Tower Block of the old school is demolished. Information, I have received has been circulated to residents.

11. WOW Fest Approved.

Last month, I spent two days within the Licensing Committee that approved the third largest Festival for the Isle of Wight- Wow Fest in Shanklin.

The organisers requested the Festival to have a 30,000 capacity, however following representations made by The Police, Highways and over 100 residents (132 objected, whilst 5 supported) the Licensing Committee reduced that number from 30,000 to 18,000 for the first year. The Police advised the Licensing Committee they considered a 20,000 capacity would be manageable.

 

It was noted that the Festival will be held on a busy weekend with both the Cowes Week fireworks and the Garlic Festival taking place at the same weekend.

12. County Hall Refurbishment.

Many thanks to residents who have asked questions concerning the recent overhall of the Council Chamber, which it was alleged has cost the local authority £120,000.

This money was set aside in last years Transformation budget, when Councillors agreed to transfer Council’s staff into fewer buildings. County Hall’s staff this year is set to grow from 400 to 700 whilst the buildings will be sold. With regard to the Council Chamber (which remained as it was since 1995), it was decided to make this much more fit for purpose as microphones didn’t work (not really a problem for me!), projectors could not be viewed and the static tables did not really lend themselves to adapting the Chamber for wider community use.

Although I share some concerns about the cost and the fact the chamber still remains difficult to access for disabled users, I remain positive that in future the Council Chamber will be put to much better use and community groups will have greater access than they had previously.

13. Egypt Hill Developments.

I continue to respond to a considerable number of complaints concerning the redevelopment of the three sites in Egypt Hill.

During summer work began on the former site of Rookstone. Work is also due to end shortly at Essex House, Baring Road; Meaning the cranes are due to leave this site soon resulting in the road being closed. To improve traffic flows in the area, contractors have been asked to park in Egypt Esplanade.

14. Replacement Gas Main Timetable: September-December.

September: Cross Solent Gas Pipeline has been tested and gassed up. No problems encountered; Trials on land based pipeline due to take place. Cow Lane due to be closed for three days.

October: ‘Kiosk’ due to be constructed to surround regulator. Pipelines to be coated, and land backfilled. Topsoiling an Reseeding to take place and replacement hedgerows planted.

November: Old pipeline disconnected at Egypt Point. Road to regulator, Rew St. to be resurfaced and concreted.

SGN has constructed a pond, whilst positive news was relayed that the replacement Electricity Main is due to come ashore at Thorness rather than Gurnard!

15. Digital Switchover Update

On 7 March 2012, the Isle of Wight's terrestrial TV signal will be turned off. This means to continue receiving free-to-air TV channels such as BBC & ITV, households will require a digital set top box or TV with built-in Freeview.

16. Cowes Enterprise College.

I continue to chair the residents/ contractors/ college liaison group and can report development is running to schedule. Following complaints I‘ve relayed on residents behalf, the contractor has increased manual road cleaning, with an Industrial road sweeper being used on a weekly basis in Crossfield Avenue. I’ve also been advised that hedges will be allowed to grow where necessary and the sports field has been seeded and is due for its first cut. I would like to add my grateful thanks to Pihl and Janet Newton, Director of School Reorganisation for their enthusiastic involvement in resolving issues when they arise.

I met with the new Principal, early this month and together we discussed continuing surgeries at the college, and how I can work alongside the college following my retirement as a school governor last month.  We also discussed opportunities to enable students to have a much greater involvement in local decision making, and how young people could and  should work with the local authority and local parish & town councils.  Mr Russell was keen to listen to comments both positive and negative which have been relayed to me concerning school uniform.

 

In The Last Month:

17. I attended a Local Access Forum, and was advised that the Cross Cowes Cycleway which I have long supported will feature in the Council’s bid for funds from the Sustainable Transport Grant.

18 I attended the Cowes Group of Older Voices, and will convene a meeting between the group and Highways Officers.

19. I’ve attended meetings of the IW Council’s Scrutiny Committee for Young People, and raised concerns over Foster Care and the recruitment of carers.

20. Meanwhile at the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel, I’ve raised issues re: Recycling, The Gasification Plant, Tourism and the future concerning the Cowes Ferry. (The floating bridge is due to cease operation in 2015) 

21. I attended the funeral of neighbouring Councillor for West Wight, Stuart Dyer. As fellow Independents we worked closely on a number of initiatives. Stuart was a good friend and a very popular Councillor, and will be sadly missed.

22. I attended a meeting concerning the future of Gurnard School Site at County Hall. I am committed to working with Gurnard Parish Council to ensure that the community retains a sustainable use of the non-developable part of the School Site.

23. I’ve met with the Council’s Chief Executive and Director Of Finance to discuss proposals for next years Budget.

24. During September I attended three Cowes Town Council meetings; a meeting of Gurnard Parish Council a Footprint Trust Meeting, attended Gurnard Village Hall Association’s AGM, attended Cowes Youth Club Management Committee Meeting, Cowes Community Partnership’s AGM, Cowes Area Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators meeting, a meeting of the Gurnard Pines Chalet Owners, a Planning Site Visit and meeting and Full Council.

25. I’ve taken up issues relating to Dog Fouling (Princes Esplanade), broken Play Equipment, reported Grass verges (Place Road) not being cut and overgrown hedgerows (Shore Road). I have supported a residents appeal against issuing of a Parking Ticket and ensured leaflets outlining how to appeal against parking tickets are made available from Cowes Library. I asked the Council to remove a Bus Stop in Parklands Avenue, once it suddenly appeared…, and took up a number of issues relating to re-housing Gurnard Pines residents.

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!