IW Councillors Report, February 2014

Surgeries:

5-6pm, Monday 3^rd February, Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes. (BUDGET)

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

6-6:30pm, Thursday 13^th February, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

1-1:30pm, Tuesday 18^th February, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 27^th February, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

4-4:30pm, Monday 3^rd March, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5-6pm, Monday 3^rd March, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes. (HIGHWAYS ISSUES)

 1-1:30pm, Tuesday 13^th March, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

IW Council Budget 2014/5.

This week the three Scrutiny Panels and Overview & Scrutiny Committee are meeting to make recommendations for next year’s Budget. This budget has caused significant anguish from members, all of whom were elected to make a difference to the communities they represent.  With the level of savings the IW Council needs to find in coming years this will ultimately place real limitations on what we are able to achieve. 

From my perspective the challenges that local government will face over the coming years has made local councils look hard at how services are deployed. Although there has been discussions with Town & Parish Councils over how some services are facilitated, in my view to transfer these to local Councils is not the only way!  As an IW Councillor from the ruling group I consider it will be perceived that I will have a conflict of interest and will not contribute to this debate. 

However, once a decision has been taken, I am more than happy to offer support, and retrieve information required for any transferral of service!

In the last few weeks myself and other members have also met with representatives from the Commercial Sector, the Voluntary Sector, Council employees and local Councillors to look at ways of transferring services in a smarter and potentially more efficient way.  I wish to place on record my thanks to Cllr David Walters for his input. 

Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel.

During this week’s (and my last, as Chairman!) Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel I have asked for a presentation for members to be held regarding the PFI. 

I attended a constructive members briefing regarding Car Parking, which was requested by the last Panel meeting and suggestions will be tabled this week.

Earlier this month members had the opportunity to question the ferry operators.  This offered the opportunity for operators to respond and elaborate to questions put last month.  A list of the responses is available via the following link: http://www.iwight.com/Meetings/committees/Scrutiny%20Task%20and%20Finish%20Group/23-1-14/Responses.pdf

Assisted Area Status.

The IW Council continues to push for recognition as an area for designation by Government for European Assisted Area Status.

It is noted that the southern (rural) half of the Isle of Wight has not been included within this consultation. As I understand, the reason for this is due to Government not to fully understanding the Isle of Wight is an offshore Island. Therefore we are categorised alongside districts with levels of social depravation, rather than alongside other off-shore Islands with same level of social depravation.

Last month a cross-party delegation went to Westminster, to make the case for the Island.

If status is confirmed this will enable Island Businesses to apply for grants to expand and create new jobs. 

As elected member for one of the areas included, I have joined other community and business leaders in endorsing that the Island (albeit a part) is included.

Planning.

The retail proposal for the Former Readers Site, Place Road was readvertised last month.  It seems likely that following concerns raised over sequential testing for out of town retail sites in the Medina Valley, this application may be referred to the Planning Committee.

An extension has been requested for the application for 99 homes for Place Road, subsequently the hearing from this application will not be heard this month.

At Planning Committee, the proposed roof terrace for 23-29 Cliff Road, Cowes was approved, 7 members in favour, 3 Against.

PFI Update.

As mentioned previously, there is to be a presentation at the Economy & Environment Committee.  I will circulate this to Councillors and members of the public interested.  This follows concerns raised over timescales, and by the fact that some roads have slipped down the priority list.

I understand that Shore Road, Gurnard and Park Road and Ward Avenue remains of high priority, however I am mindful of the redeployment of services elsewhere during highway damage over the winter.

In the last month resurfacing has taken place in Cockleton Lane, Princes Esplanade whilst Woodvale Road is imminent.  Footway resurfacing will take place in the coming months.

Following concerns raised by the Isle of Wight Bridleway Group, which were taken up by Cllr John Nicholson I have echoed concerns over the use of the Fibrovia asphalt material in Cockleton Lane understanding this can make the surface slippery for horses.  Despite reassurances given, I’ve request additional signage to warn riders.

My thanks to John for his support!

With respect to Cockleton Lane, I’ve received a number of positive commendations about the new surface.

Given the level of complaints received, a Highways Surgery will be held at 5-6pm, Monday 3^rd March at the Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes. Representatives of the IW Council and Island Roads will be in attendance.  This will be a joint surgery which I am holding alongside my colleague John Nicholson Conservative Councillor for Cowes South and Northwood.

Improving Education on the Isle of Wight.

I attended a Governors Training Event last month, which was based upon the Statement from the Director of Children’s Services for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.  This document was relayed to Governors, schools and January’s Cabinet.

The report acknowledges that despite improvements in school attendance and small improvements in results, there continues to be a huge amount of work still required.  The aim for the Isle of Wight is to ensure GCSE passes are 2% higher than the National Average (rather than 4% below, as it stands currently).

It is fully understood that until standards are raised, this will remain a disincentive for investors wishing to relocate here. The view was also expressed that all parents, and most of the Island’s population should understand the importance of raising expectations, and become more actively involved

It was stated that in the short term: 35% of schools will receive high levels of challenge and support; 43% will receive medium levels of support and 22% will receive limited support. The statement is available via the following link: 

http://www.iwight.com/Meetings/committees/cabinet/9-1-14/Paper%20D%20-%20Appendix.pdf

Recycled Computers.

Digital Recycle, part of Computer Express (IW) has teamed up with the Footprint Trust to encourage the reclamation and recycling of personal computers, tablets, laptops and mobile phones.

Digital Recycle is ‘Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment registered. Individuals and organisations can support this scheme by donating old devices which will be reclaimed and recycled.  All data will be securely erased for free.

Computer Express, also offers reasonably-priced reclaimed computer for students, schools and households

For further information telephone 01983 537322; Email: info@digitalrecycle.co.uk or visit www.digitalrecycle.co.uk.

Cowes Floating Bridge.

Following an enquiry from Cowes Town Councillor Cllr David Walters, Cllrs Julia Baker-Smith, Luisa Hillard, Lora Peacey-Wilcox and I met with Floating Bridge staff and the lead officer, to discuss options for replacing the Ferry.

It was noted than in the past the £3m allocated for replacement was the projected cost for the 2015/6 Capital Programme within last years budget. This money, it is acknowledged would either need to be accrued from capital receipts or borrowed.

Contrary to local belief, there was no money set aside historically to replace the Ferry and therefore, if there is a requirement to replace the Ferry (We all believe there is!!)- It seems necessary to impose a small nominal charge for pedestrians. This will be in line with similar services operating elsewhere by both the private and public sector, and is necessary to support the Floating Bridge’s procurement and replacement in the coming years. It will take 2-3 years to build a new bridge!!

In the coming weeks and months partnership with the private sector and local businesses for potential sponsorship will be assessed.

Telephone Preference Service.

I continue to receive calls from residents that are getting fed up from unwanted telephone calls from call centres.

The TPS can block a large number of speculative calls, although not all.  This service is free.

For further information, please visit: http://www.tpsonline.org.uk/; or telephone: 0845 070 0707

Outcomes from Meetings.

Full Council: Members Allowances.

Following dialogue from last month’s Cowes Town Council Meeting.  I voted against the proposals to freeze Council Members Attendances, due to the fact that I would be happy to receive a smaller allowance than I do for being a member of the Isle of Wight Council.  This is something that I have been done consistently  for four years, and in light that Town and Parish Councillors, School Governors work voluntarily and by the fact that savings are required from next year’s budgets, I voted accordingly!   The final vote was 31 members supporting the Independent Remuneration Panel’s proposal to freeze allowances, 1 abstention and 1 voting against.

This is an issue I have discussed within the Independent Group, and look forward to discussing with the abstainer Cllr Chris Whitehouse, in the hope that next year I may find an ally to second a proposal to cut members allowances!! 

Full Council/ Planning Committee: Wind Turbines.

At Full Council Cllr. Jonathan Bacon reported that the decision to refuse a Wind Turbine at land off Betty Haunt Lane, Newport had been upheld by the Planning Inspectorate.

On this subject, I sought clarification from Cllr. Bacon on whether there is scope given the limited size and impact for any on-shore wind turbines given objections from the AONB Partnership, or from residents affected?

Because of the Island’s limited size, and opportunities to harness renewable energy from other more practicable and less controversial means, would there be scope to remove the wind turbine policy from the Island Plan? 

Planning Committee.

Apart from the Cliff Road Roof Terrace, Planning Committee members also considered proposals to demolish the Broadway Centre and replace this with a new Community Centre and 5 new homes, Sandown..  This application was recommended by officers for refusal.  However following feedback, I proposed the application was deferred pending further negotiation on 5 dwellings.  This couse of action was approved 6 votes to 5.

Other applications approved included a small cattery in a residential dwelling in Bullen Road, Pondwell and a  dwelling to replace a garage in Littlestairs Road, Shanklin.

Audit Committee.

The cost of administering Council Tax, clauses for the PFI not reaching targets, and Sickness Absence from the Community Safeguarding Team were put under scrutiny by last week’s Audit Committee.

Another issue raised at Audit was the volume of Freedom of Information requests, and how very high volume compared to elsewhere.  It was noted that compliance rates to requests ranged from 85-92%.

Also the Committee noted that a self-referred data protection breach had narrowly avoided a financial penalty.

  

Also this month:

·         I have made a number of phone calls (NOT IN A COLD CALL MANNER...) to residents, when it was pointed out to me that some had not received recyclable waste bags.  From the calls that I initiated, I discovered this is a problem though not widespread. However, I am responding to residents’ calls. 

·         I’ve had discussions with Island Enterprise, following concerns raised over the perceived interference with a badger sett.

·         I’ve spoken to Chesterton Humberts, agents for the Crown Estate over works last year in Gurnard.  They have advised that dialogue is required with Parks and Beaches, and am awaiting a response to forward to the IW Council.

·         I have attended Members Briefings on improving Public Participation at Planning, Car Parking and attended a briefing on Flooding.

·         Following the briefing, I have discovered that the IW Council is Lead Flood authority- and am using what I’ve learnt to support a Cowes resident!

IW Councillors Report: January 2014

Surgeries:

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 7^th January,  Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

3-3:30pm, Wednesday 15^th January, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 30^th January, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.
5-6pm, Monday 3rd February, Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes. (BUDGET)

4-4:30pm, Tuesday 4^th February, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

IW Council Budget 2014-2015.

The IW Council is currently facing the challenge of setting a budget for the coming financial year.

Savings being considered include reducing non-statutory services, reviewing staffing/ sharing resources with other local authorities and/or town/parish councils and raising revenue from fees and charges.

Because of austerity measures, and future cuts in Government Grants it seems increasingly likely that smaller authorities will find it more difficult to retain non-statutory functions. 

For the IW Council this will continue to be extremely challenging, particularly in light of a growing aging population and the statutory requirement the local authority has to support this need.

One of the issues, locally which will be of concern is the prospect of increasing Cowes Floating Bridge charges. This may be necessary due to the need to replace the ferry in the next 3-5 years. Car Parking will be another aspect of significant interest.  I will be holding a special budget surgery from 5-6pm, Tuesday 4^th February at the IW Community Club to listen to residents suggestions.

Meeting with Ferry Users and Operators.

The first meeting with Ferry Users took place last month.

Regretfully there was no representative of Red Funnel users. This in itself could be perceived as positive!

Of surprise was the fact that the two other user groups had differing relationships with ferry operators.  The representative of travellers using Hovertravel seemed positive about their relationship, whilst Wightlink users seemed less so.

There was no evidence to suggest that visitors to the Island considered the ferry crossing cost was a disincentive for coming to the Island. In a recent Survey the Isle of Wight was considered the 3^rd best value holiday destination in the UK.  

Other issues discussed and considered was the need for Ferry operators to properly service their debts; why Government considered the Solent to be an ‘Estuary’, and by so doing restricted the Island Ferry Services being financially supported in the same way as other off shore Islands; and finally could small local Island businesses take advantage of special deals as larger businesses? 

The next meeting will take place with Ferry Operators on 6pm, Thursday 23^rd January at County Hall.

Safe Routes To School, Baring Road: Update.

A Public Information Evening was held on 2^nd December, to discuss proposals to increase traffic restrictions in Baring Road and Woodvale Road.  This meeting was advertised by way of a letterdrop to 100 homes nearby, and for two weeks through Gurnard Primary School’s newsletter.  In summary the proposals included the following:

·         A parking restriction on the length of the cycle lane in Baring Road

·         Additional parking restrictions in Baring Road opposite the pavement (eastern side), between the school and Battery Road, with passing places.

·         Additional parking restrictions at the top section of Woodvale Road on both sides of the road.

·         Retention of the parking restrictions on the pavement side (western side) of Baring Road.

During the meeting (which was attended by 12 residents and 6 parents there was a general agreement that proposals would make it safer for children, however concerns were raised over the loss of parking.  In respect of this, every aspect of the proposal was opposed and therefore it seems unlikely the Traffic Order will be advertised in its current form. 

Following further complaints from parents over child safety outside the school a meeting has been arranged early January with the school to agree a way forward.  In the meantime, I have requested that parking enforcement is improved.

Adverse weather.

Throughout late December and early January Flood Alerts remained in place for Gurnard Marsh following the threat from stormy weather, high tides and rainwater impacting upon the Gurnard Luck.

Elsewhere, Princes Esplanade and Egypt Esplanade flooded which resulted in bus services being diverted, whilst Cockleton Lane avoided the usual severity of flooding following a request made to clear storm water drains prior to Christmas.  

Gurnard Primary School remained closed until 10:30am on Monday morning due to a fallen tree whilst parts of Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood have continued to experience power cuts.

I am advised that the service have attended over 100 flood related incidents since Christmas and am aware the Council, fire and rescue service and Island Roads continue to monitor the weather forecasts and respond to weather-related incidents.

 

Defra announces a second consultation for Isle of Wight Coastal Path.

Defra announced a new consultation which runs to 24^th January 2014.

The purpose of this consultation is to give a second opportunity for people to state (or re-state) their views on whether or not the Government should make an order to ensure the Isle of Wight is included within the Maritime and Coastal Access Act.

The consultation particularly invites views on the degree of priority that should be accorded to the making of an order, and the implementation of any coastal access proposals for the Isle of Wight as against the rest of the coastal access programme, given limited funds for the overall programme.

Comments can be made via the following link:

https://consult.defra.gov.uk/landscape-outdoor-recreation-and-forestry/isle-of-wight-coastal-access

Planning Applications.

Over the Christmas Break, I’ve received comments on ‘minor’ Planning Applications for Princes Esplanade and Rew Street, Gurnard and Churchill Close, Cowes and have sought conditions to overcome some of the objections raised.

The proposed roof terrace for 23-29 Cliff Road will be determined this month, and a site visit for Planning Officers to visit Egypt Reach, Baring Road has been arranged prior to this being considered by Committee.

With respect to The Range retail unit proposed for Place Road negotiations remain ongoing, whilst Officers are aiming for decision to be taken on the 99 dwellings between Place Road and Tuttons Hill in February. This date is aspirational at present with further information being gathered in the meantime.  Until this information is gathered, it remains difficult to predict what recommendation Planning Officers will be making to the Planning Committee.

Microchip your dog for Free.

Did you  know all dogs legally have be microchipped by 6th April 2016.  The IW Council in partnership with the Dogs Trust will be holding a free microchipping event at the following times and locations:

Saturday 18th January 2014

10am - 1pm at St Georges Park, (Newport Football Club), Newport.

Saturday 15th March 2014

10am - 1pm at Avenue Road Car Park, Freshwater.

Sunday 16th March 2014

12 - 3pm at Vectis Road, East Cowes (Opp. the Pavillion).

In the Last Month:

·         Rights of Way, and the IW Council’s Cabinet Member Cllr. Shirley Smart has given a high priority making ‘dangerous crossing points’ safer for riders and ramblers crossing busy roads following pressure by the Local Access Forum.  Visibility Splays at perceived dangerous locations have been cut back.

·         As a member of the Licensing Committee which determined the most recent application for the Quay Arts Centre, local residents were successful in requesting hours were curtailed.

·         The AONB Partnership supported awarding grant funding the Vectis Astronomical Society who are monitoring light pollution/ darker skies.  The grant was supported due to other areas such as Kilder Forest benefitting economically through tourism for darker skies…

·         I attended a Village Green Appeal, which rejected a proposal in Puckpool.  Because the area remained in ownership and use by Harcourt Sands until 2006 and by the fact the area was patrolled by security guards and was fenced off between the 20 year period 1991-2001 demonstrated the land could not be used ‘as a right’.

·         At Planning Committee, I supported plans to build an Anaerobic Digestion Plant in Arreton.  This application was supported by the Island’s Farming Community and would provide gas for between 4000 and 50000 homes. 

Surgery: 5-5:30pm Tuesday 7th January CANCELLED.

This Surgery has been cancelled due to an Overview & Scrutiny Committee being called this evening to assess the budget report for next Thursday's Cabinet.

If you are unable to attend my 4:30pm Surgery at Cowes Library today, my next scheduled surgery will be held at 3pm, Wednesday 15th January at Cowes Enterprise College.

If this is not convenient, please call me and I'm more than happy to visit you!

In the meantime my January Councillors Report will be posted on this site on Wednesday 8th January.

IW Councillors Report: December 2013.

Surgeries:

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 3^rd December,  Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 3^rd December, Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 12^th December, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 7^th January 2014,  Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

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

Planning Update: 23,25,27,29 Cliff Road, Cowes.

This month, I received an 11^th hour request to call in the decision to conditionally approve the proposal to allow a roof terrace on properties in Cliff Road.

I’ve requested for this application to be heard by the Planning Committee, and if my request is granted this is likely to take place in January.

I’ve requested consideration is given to the impact upon Egypt Reach (incl. Loss of Amenity, light & outlook) and design. I’ve suggested Planning Committee members visit Egypt Reach, to consider representations made by the Inspector with regard to overdominance when considering the appeal decision for 23-29 Cliff Road in 2007.

Planning Update: Planning Application for 99 new homes Place Road.

To date, 272 residents have commented on the proposal to develop 99 homes on land between Tuttons Hill & Place Road 

With representatives from Gurnard Neighbourhood Plan’s Steering Committee, I met with Planning Officers and the Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, Cllr. Jonathan Bacon.  This meeting gave the opportunity to understand precisely how extensive pre-application discussions were between the applicant and planners, whilst an opportunity arose to challenge why the settlement boundary hadn’t been removed from Gurnard.

If you have been unable to comment, and wish to do so the planning office will continue to accept reps. until determination.

Planning Update: The Range, Place Road, Cowes.

Planning Officers are still in the process of determining the new Range store proposed for the former Reader’s site in Place Road opposite the junction for Three Gates Road.

The delay is due to an agent acting on behalf of a third party. These concerns relate to the consideration of alterative locations, closer to the town centres of Cowes and Newport.

Safe Routes To School, Baring Road.

A Public Information Evening was held on Monday 2^nd December, to discuss proposals to increase traffic restrictions in Baring Road and Woodvale Road.  This meeting was advertised by way of a letterdrop to 100 homes nearby, and for two weeks through Gurnard Primary School’s newsletter.  In summary the proposals included the following:

·         A parking restriction on the length of the cycle lane in Baring Road

·         Additional parking restrictions in Baring Road opposite the pavement (eastern side), between the school and Battery Road, with passing places.

·         Additional parking restrictions at the top section of Woodvale Road on both sides of the road.

·         Retention of the parking restrictions on the pavement side (western side) of Baring Road.

During the meeting (which was attended by 12 residents and 6 parents there was a general agreement that proposals would make it safer for children, however concerns were raised over the loss of parking.  In respect of this, every element of the proposal was opposed and therefore it seems unlikely the Traffic Order will be advertised in its current form. 

Before making a final decision this will be considered by Governors in liaison with the school’s Parents Forum.  In the meantime, I will be asking that parking enforcement is improved.

Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel.

At the Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel, it seems likely the the IW Council will reveal proposals for its Car Parking Strategy early next year following assessment of the Local Government Finance Settlement.  Prior to any decision, I have asked for adequate time is offered to Town and Parish Council’s for feedback.

In addition to this, at E&E Scrutiny, following some concerns over perceived PFI progress, I have requested 6 month progress reports be shared with Councillors.

This week, I will be jointly chairing the Cross Solent Services Scrutiny Task & Finish Group with Cllr Geoff Lumley.  The purpose of this group is to enable dialogue between ferry operators and their customers and will take evidence from User Groups, The Island MP, Representatives of relevant Island Business (including the Chamber Of Commerce, the IW Federation of Small Businesses, Visit Wight, the IW Trades Council and the Quality Transport Partnership.

Representatives of Town/Parish Councils and Young People will also be offered the opportunity to input.

Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel.

Tackling absenteeism, is a priority for the IW Council following School Attendance rates being the lowest in the country.

Members heard that overall attendance rates since September has increased by 2%, and schools alongside extra Education Welfare Officers have been appointed and continue to visit the homes of ‘ill’ children.  

It was reported that of all Island Secondary Schools, Cowes Enterprise Colleges attendance was the best with attendance for this week ending ranging from 95-97% (exceeding the national average rate of 94.7%)

I have also raised questions regarding the cost of mainland placements for local children with learning difficulties.

Planning.

Within the Planning Committee, I proposed refusal for the 900+ new homes at Pennyfeathers, Ryde. (This was in accordance with Planning Officers recommendation)

Of concern was the fact that little consultation had been undertaken with respect to the local community over many aspects regarding this proposal.  There were also issues relating to the loss of ancient hedgerow, a lack of assessment regarding the highways assessment, Environmental Issues and little evidence with respect to a housing need within Ryde.

The Proposed redevelopment of the National Grid Site, Ryde, a hydrogen refuelling facility, Ventnor; the Studio School application, East Cowes and a proposal to redevelop land for housing adjacent to Medina House, Newport were all approved in accordance with the officers recommendation.

The only application that deviated from officers recommendation was the proposed conversion of a new constructed stable (in 2011) to holiday use which was refused by Committee.

Isle of Wight Health Profile 2013: At a glance.

·         The health of people in the Isle of Wight is varied compared with the England average.

·         Deprivation is lower than average, however about 4,900 children live in poverty.

·         Life expectancy for women is higher than the England average.

·         Life expectancy is 4.9 years lower for men and 3.9 years lower for women in the most deprived areas of the Isle of Wight than in the least deprived areas.

·         Over the last 10 years, all cause mortality rates have fallen. Early death rates from cancer and from heart disease and stroke have also fallen and are similar to the England average.

·         In Year 6, 18.0% of children are classified as obese. Levels of GCSE attainment, alcohol-specific hospital are worse than the England average.

·         The level of stays among those under 18 and smoking in pregnancy breast feeding is better than the England average.

·         The estimated level of adult obesity is worse than the England average.

·         The rate of road injuries and deaths is worse than the England average.

·         Rates of sexually transmitted infections, smoking related deaths and hospital stays for alcohol related harm are better than the England average.

·         Priorities in the Isle of Wight include smoking cessation in high prevalence groups; active, safe, lifestyles and alcohol harm reduction.

Southen Vectis consulting on Cowes to Newport Bus.

Southern Vectis’ has advised me that they are consulting on Service 1, with a view to improving the service from next March.  To get involved, please use the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TTB3R6V

Audit Committee.

I was recently appointed to the Audit Committee, which assesses the IW Councils Risks and how these are managed.

Last month I undertook training in Southampton, and at the most recent Committee meeting members received a presentation from Hampshire County Council who raised concerns over the low aspirations of Island adults, and how these may adversely impact upon Educational standards on the Island.

I also requested further feedback on Data Protection breaches, which could have cost implications on the Local Authority.

Christmas/ New Year Refuse Collection Arrangements 2013/2014.

There will be some changes to refuse collections this year. Below are details of the changes:

Waste normally collected on:              Will instead be collected on:

Monday 23 December                        Saturday 21 December

Tuesday 24 December                       Monday 23 December

Wednesday 25 December                 Tuesday 24 December

Thursday 26 December                     Friday 27 December

Friday 27 December                           Saturday 28 December

Monday 30 December                         NO CHANGE

Tuesday 31 December                       NO CHANGE

Wednesday 1 January                       Thursday 2 January

Thursday 2 January                           Friday 3 January

Friday 3 January                                Saturday 4 January

Waste collections will resume as normal from Monday 6 January.

Christmas tree skips will also be available in the following locations between Saturday 4 January until Sunday 12 January. Any trees collected in the skips are chipped and used for green projects. Artificial trees cannot be recycled and should not be included at these sites. People should not leave Christmas trees in car parks that do not have tree skips.

Brighstone village car park.  East Cowes Esplanade car park. Lake, New Road car park.

Ryde, Waltzing Waters car park. Somerton, Park and Ride.  Ventnor Botanic Garden car park.

Christmas trees can also be placed with garden waste at all household waste recycling centres. These can be found at Lynnbottom near Newport, Forest Road in Newport and Afton in Freshwater.

People should hold on to their Christmas cards and recycle them in their wheelie bins.

Throughout the festive period, the civic amenity site at Lynnbottom will be open as usual from 7am to 7pm apart from Christmas Day when it is closed all day.

Forest Road household waste recycling centre will be open every Sunday in December between 9.30am and 4.30pm but will be closed every Saturday. Afton household waste recycling centre will be open every Saturday and Sunday between 9.30am and 4.30pm. Both sites are closed on weekdays as normal.

More information on waste collections can be found by logging on to www.iwight.com/waste

In the last month:

·         I attended Remembrance Day Services, and was honoured to lay wreaths on behalf of the IW Council’s Chairman at Cowes and Gurnard.

·         I approached Planning Compliance, following the placement of a structure (thought by residents to be a ‘sales office’), on land in Place Road. It was later revealed that a Place Road resident had permission to locate the structure in their back garden.

·         I have assisted in progressing the disposal of the former Gurnard School playing field and orchard site. This followed reservations from Council Officers over DFE restrictions over future use of the orchard for ‘allotments’.

·         At Full Council, I supported the IW Council adopting a ‘hybrid’ Committee system within its constitutional review.  This I believe will make the Councillors more accountable to decisions taken.  In fairness, I could have supported all three options!  

·         Cowes Enterprise College received a monitoring visit from OFSTED.  The findings will be made available the first week of December.

·         I have supported two residents with queries regarding Council Tax reminders.

·         I requested the support of parking services over vehicles parked on double yellow lines, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

·         I received a request to see street light improved for residents set back from the road at Mountbatten Avenue.

·         I requested street nameplates to be replaced in Guppy Close and Magdalen Crescent, Cowes

·         Belated repairs took place to Ward Avenue, following vehicles eventually being moved by mainland commuters.

·         The Licensing Committee froze Taxi Fares at its meeting last month.  In addition I served on a sub-committee which approved a licence for Ventnor Botanic Gardens and two street trading applications for Ryde Esplanade.

Thankyou, as always for reading my report!  If you require updates or further details please visit my blog: paulfullercc.blogspot.com

In the meantime, I wish all residents and their families a Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous Christmas and New Year!