IW Councillor's Report, October 2018

Surgeries.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 2^nd October, Cowes Library, 12-14 Beckford Road, Cowes.

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

10:30-11am, Friday 5^th October, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Wednesday 10^th  October, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

3-3:30pm, Wednesday 17^th October, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

10:30-11am, Thursday 25^th October, Coffee & Chat at All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

6-6:30pm, Wednesday 31^st October, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

Gurnard Pines.

I have received feedback, in the form of 10 emails, 2 telephone calls and 1 letter from residents of Gurnard Pines concerning issues on site.

In summary the issues raised are as follows:

1.    Electricity and Water Meters, and imposition of ‘unfair’ charges, particularly the standing charge costs for meters.

2.    Site Maintenance and concerns relating to health and safety matters.

3.    Support for vulnerable residents.  

To ensure the attendance of key stakeholders, a drop-in will take place                                        at Gurnard Pines Café. In attendance will be myself, Monergy Experts- The Footprint Trust and Adult Services.  The focus of the drop-in surgery is to offer support and advice to local residents.  If residents are not able to make it to the drop-in, Adult Services are happy to visit residents in their home on the day.  

In addition the Footprint Trust can provide free visits to homeowners where support is given on how to reduce energy bills, switch supplier and get discounts on water charges plus help available from other charities and government bodies.  To receive support, please email info@footprint-trust.co.uk or call 01983 822282.

In the meantime, I continue to seek feedback from residents on their concerns and experiences- All feedback is treated as confidential, and will be used to summarise issues being addressed by residents.

Land adjacent to Dottens Farm.

Proposals to develop ten dwellings (8 detached, and 2 semi-detached) on farmland adjacent to Dottens Farm is now under consultation.  Unlike the approved scheme from May 2017, the new proposal accesses dwellings from one road rather than from a crescent.  In addition the agent suggests that the new scheme lessens its impact upon the listed Dottens Farm and barn.

It is noted that the proposal for 8 dwellings was approved. However, a previous application for 11 dwellings was withdrawn by the former applicant…

Last month, I called a meeting with local residents, where the Planning Agent gave advance notice of proposals.

The deadline for comments is Friday 5^th October.

Boundary Review.

Following feedback from the IW Council, the Boundary Commission has published proposals for revised ward boundaries. For details, please visit:  https://consultation.lgbce.org.uk/node/12655. Proposals for Cowes remain unchanged, except for the boundary between Cowes North and Cowes West being moved west.

Interestingly proposals for rural areas has meant that these areas may have significant changes on how Parishes are linked within the proposals. Suggestions from the Isle of Wight Council kept most rural areas unchanged, whereas the Commission’s proposals replace the two member Bembridge, St. Helens and Brading Ward, with a two member ward for Ventnor and Wroxall.   New proposals will also reduce the number of IW Councillors from 40 to 39.

The consultation ends 12^th November.

Road Resurfacing.

Last month Tuttons Hill and the Roundhouse mini-roundabout was resurfaced.  At the last minute, following concerns raised by bus passengers, I was in discussion with both Island Roads and Southern Vectis about reducing the length of closure of the Roundhouse Bus Stops and the diversion of the No. 1 bus to Cowes and Newport. 

In addition, Island Roads have decided to resurface Solent View Road, rather than Worsley Road.  This is due to surveys taking place, which considered that the carriageway for Solent View Road being in a poorer condition.

In the meantime, I continue to chase up Crossfield Avenue and (lower) Park Road being given a higher priority.

Cowes Traffic Regulation Order.

I have been advised that the new TRO which relates to Baring Road and Woodvale Road remains unamended to what was advertised earlier this year.  This remains at the stage where it is due to be processed (within October). This will continue to be chased up, until the lines are removed and repainted where appropriate.

In the meantime I am also in liaison with officers concerning amended loading conditions in place in Park Road between the junctions with Ward Avenue and Blackberry Lane, where recent difficulties have been encountered by residents receiving deliveries.

Consultation for a Combined Fire Authority.

The IW Council and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority are seeking views of residents and stakeholders on the proposed creation of a new combined Fire Authority for the Isle of Wight, Hampshire, Southampton and Portsmouth.

Please visit: https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/about-us/who-we-are/hampshire-fire-and-rescue-authority/consultation/ for further details. This consultation continues until 26^th October. 

Isle of Wight Coastal Path.

At the recent meeting of the Local Access Forum, I received an update on progress of the Isle of Wight section of the English Coastal Path.

Officers highlighted that timescales have slipped due to discussions taking place with landowners. 

Of note is the following:

·         Discussions are ongoing with the Ministry Of Defence and English Heritage about access to the Newtown Estuary and Osborne Bay.  Landowners made the point that it seems unfair that they are under pressure to make concessions to Natural England, whereas Government Agencies are showing less will.

·         At present there are suggestions to bypass the Locksgreen Road which is dangerous. English Nature are requesting that access is ideally provided at Newtown Camp, when not being used.  An alternative path may be provided inland from the Locksgreen Road.

·         Coastal access from Porchfield to Thorness may arise through using existing paths past/ through Burnt Wood and via the Thorness Bay Nature Walk.

·         There would be upgrades to the existing Coastal Path from Bouldner to Cranmore.

·         There would be inclusion of Water’s Copse and Clamerkin Lake within the path.

·         My suggestion to include existing paths from Cowes to Newport to East Cowes is likely to be accepted.

·         Throughout the path will be various alternative low tide and high tide routes.

Links and suggestions made by IW Ramblers can be found at: http://www.iowramblers.com/island-coastal-trail.

Seafront Cycling. 

Complaints continue to be received of cyclists using the seafront pavement between Cowes and Gurnard.  If you are a competent cyclist, there is no reason to cycle on the pavement as the highway is wide enough to accommodate all traffic!

Please let me know your thoughts on pavement cycling, and provide feedback your experiences both as pedestrians and as cyclists.  This will be discussed by Gurnard Parish Council! 

Seafront Railings.

The condition of the railings on Cowes Seafront continues to cause concerns.  Several years ago the IW Council (who has health and safety liabilities for the railings) approached Cowes Town Council and Gurnard Parish Council for financial support.  However, at that time due to the costs for replacement and the IW Council’s liabilities, no support was forthcoming from our local councils. This I supported.

This was followed by discussions that took place to consider the removal of railings, which was rejected by officers due to the requirement to ensure that the level of safety was maintained.   In response the IW Council undertook minimal repairs to replace the worse stretches of railings. In addition, I am supporting a Capital Bid which has been made to repair and replace the railings.  

Southern Vectis. 

I am meeting Southern Vectis to discuss concerns raised with them concerning overfilled buses during the summer.

Please let me know before 4^th October, any concerns you have (apologies for the short timeframe!) 

Regeneration Strategy.

The Isle of Wight Council has started a major regeneration programme to help create more jobs, better housing and an even better quality of life for residents.  In order to help inform the priorities for regeneration, the Council are liaising with residents through a “The Wight We Want” conversation.  These conversations are held in five area workshops will help the Council understand more about what residents want to see in place for future generations over the next 10 years and beyond.

This will be reflected in The Council’s Regeneration Study for the Island. The draft strategy is currently under consultation and feedback is welcomed.  For details please visit: https://iwightinvest.com/the-wight-we-want/.  This consultation continues until 12^th October.

Full Council.

·         Concern was raised over the Isle of Wight Council opposing Southampton City Council’s Clean Air Strategy.  It was highlighted by the Council’s leadership the impact proposals may have over freight to the Island.  Discussions are ongoing between leaders of both Councils. From my perspective, following the feedback I receive concerning pollution levels from docked cruise liners, shipping and Fawley, I am supportive of Southampton dealing with the excessive pollution levels residents face.

·         The IW Council suggested it’s will to repeal Planning Approvals, should development not be forthcoming.  From my perspective, I am unsure whether this would be possible given legislation would require changing.

·         Councillors agreed to the Independent Remuneration Panel to increase Councillors allowances by 2%. True to form, I was one of 3 Councillors to vote against proposals.

·         Following amendments falling, Full Council opposed proposals being made by Government to remove local control over the extraction of fossil fuels. I supported both both the motion and alternatives!!

Mayor’s Report.

In the last month I have attended meetings with:

·         Cowes Business Association and

·         Cowes Shoreside Committee, An update was provided on Cowes Week and suggestions for next year. In Summary, a view was expressed by stakeholders that Cowes Week saw an uplift in trade, whilst sponsors had a good year. This was echoed by Red Funnel’s increase in passenger levels.  On calm days, racing occurred later in the day rather than being cancelled. This was appreciated by competitors. The Plastic Free initiative proved popular.  Concerns raised included the lack of visible policing, toilets and lack of signposting between venues.

·         IW Council Town and Parish Council Seminar. Reports and Question and Answer sessions were provided on:

1. The Combined Fire Service Review;

2. Community Service Programme and

3. The Boundary Commission Review.

·         Isle of Wight Association of Local Councils. Updates were given on:

1. Dark Skies, and the inclusion of the ‘South Western Quarter’ only being incorporated within proposals;

2. Age Friendly Island initiatives and the involvement of Town and Parish Councils;

3. Subscriptions;

4. Difficulties being experienced in meeting with HALC (Hampshire Association of Local Councils);

5 Travel to the Mainland for patients (Both Scottish Islands and the Scilly Isles receive concessions)

6.The need for greater recognition from Planners for Town & Parish Councils to receive developer contributions.

7. The need for better connectivity and updates from the Isle of Wight Council.  

·         Meeting with Mural Artists for The Cut (with Cllr Taylor)

With Councillors Peacey-Wilcox, Bartrum, Bartrum and Adams I attended the Isle Of Wight Day celebrations.  Also in attendance also working hard as well as supporting the event was Councillors Hammond and Ellis. 

Work on the Town Council’s Newsletter has been completed.  My grateful thanks to Councillors and Residents for their ideas and contributions! This is due to be distributed to residents in October.  Please let your Councillors know if you do not receive yours!

From 10:30-11:30am, Friday 23^rd November at Cowes Library a drop in session has been arranged for residents wanting to save money through switching energy suppliers and efficiency measures through the Footprint Trust Charity. The Trust advises that on average householders can save £200 per year on utility bills following their free consultations. Please visit http://footprint-trust.co.uk/ or call 01983 822282 for further information.

It is with sadness I report the resignation of Cllr Amanda Glendenning, who as Chairman of the Town Council’s Finance, Staffing and Acquisitions Committee who worked exceptionally hard forging links with our community.

At the recent Finance Committee, Cllr Jean Bartrum was unanimously elected Chairman.  

For details of the vacancy please contact Debbie Faulkner at: townclerk@cowestowncouncil.org.uk or call 209022.

Also this month:

·         I continue to oppose proposals to light bonfires within the context of the Construction Management Plan.  In addition the Planners and Environmental Health have also acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and Gurnard Parish Council.  In light of residents opposition, I remain optimistic that a solution can be found.

·         Following residents feedback, I have supported a petition calling on cheaper ferry fares for all Islanders.

·         I have requested hedge cutting takes place in Rew Street and Blackberry Lane.

·         I have contacted Island Roads to cleanse paths leading to Northwood Recreation Ground.  In addition, I have received complaints concerning dogs off leads in the fenced off play area.  I have requested further incidents are reported to me.

·         I’ve received calls concerning the approved Telecoms mast at Cliff Farm, Rew Street.  The mast, I’m informed will improve coverage solely for Vodaphone customers.

·         Action was taken concerning a vehicle that was parked on Baring Road on double yellow lines. Following intervention the owner has agreed to park their vehicle off road!

·         I am supporting the IW Councillor for Parkhurst in opposing proposals to reconfigure the road lay-out at St. Mary’s Roundabout, which I consider will exacerbate the flow of traffic for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

·         Complaints were received concerning garden waste not being taken away on the day of collection.   I have requested better communication takes place between contractors, The Council, residents and Councillors to prevent future confusion over incidents taking place.

·         This year Cowes Medical Centre are providing Flu Jabs by appointment.  For details please call: 294902.

·         The new ATM at Red Funnel is now operating!  Functioning ATM’s are also available at Sainsbury’s and the Central Convenience Store next to Benzies.  Other ATM’s are available at the Co-Op in Mill Hill Road; Aldi, Three Gates Road; Gurnard Pines whilst there are ATM’s with a charge at Northwood Stores and Nisa, Gurnard. 

I have reported incidents of the alleged disposal of waste building material on the beach below Shore Path. Please let me know if you have information concerning this!

Following the discontinuation of Yarmouth's Old Gaffers Festival, I have been approached regarding whether it may be possible for the Festival to return to Cowes.  Please let me know your ideas! 

IW Councillor's Report, September 2018

Surgeries.

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

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

10:30-11:30am, Friday 7^th September, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30- 11am, Friday 14^th September, The Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

2:50-3:10pm*, Wednesday 19 September, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.
* Amended time

6-6:30pm, Wednesday 26^th September, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11am, Thursday 27^th September, Coffee & Chat at All Saints Church, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard.

12-12:30pm, Thursday 27^th September, Eegon’s Café, 72 High Street, Cowes.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 2^nd October, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

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

Return to work!

Thank you so very much for the very kind word and best wishes for a speedy recovery following me eventually being diagnosed with listeria encephalitis in June, it is very much and gratefully appreciated!.

Following my holiday in August, I have now (almost) fully recovered and looking forward to picking up the issues I may have missed during the summer.  From this month, I will be reverting to working as a Full-time Councillor, and look forward to doing more, now no longer taking on the corporate challenges as the chairman of the IW Council’s Scrutiny Committee.  This gives more the time that I need to focus on local issues.

Planning Updates:

·         Dottens Farm.

There are proposals to increase the number of dwellings from 8 to 10 at land adjacent to Dottens Farm with access from Baring Road.

The agent acting on behalf of the applicant, will be in attendance from 5:30-6:30pm, Tuesday 4^th September, at my surgery being held in the Sports Bar of the Isle of Wight Community Club in Park Road.     

This is not currently a ‘live application’, rather a pre-application proposal to be viewed prior to submission. The agent has advised me that the proposal will have one entrance, rather than two; whilst new proposals will be distanced from the listed Dottens Farm, and is due to be advertised in the coming weeks.

I will be notifying residents of the pre-application.

·         Watersedge Café.

Following my request, the Planning Committee met last month to consider proposals to extend the Watersedge Café

The Committee disappointingly voted in favour of supporting proposals despite concerns being raised by residents, myself and Gurnard Parish Council about:

·         The size, scale, mass and design of the proposals and its impact upon the street scene.

·         With extended hours proposed, the potential loss of privacy, amenity, daylight and outlook.

·         Change of use/ opening hours of the café, and its impact.  Especially regarding parking.

·         Impact upon land stability and integrity of the culvert beneath the proposal.  

Many thanks to everybody who has commented on these proposals! My full transcript on proposals provided to the Planning Committee can be viewed below:

Watersedge Café, 40 Shore Road, Gurnard.

I wish to express both my gratitude and appreciation to both the Chairman and Officers for accepting my request for calling in this important application for Gurnard.

Unfortunately, I am not in a position to make this evening’s Planning Committee, as I am out of the country. Originally, I was advised this proposal would be heard earlier this year.

Whilst accepting the need for growth and expansion of the Watersedge Café, concerns have been raised by residents, Gurnard Parish Council and myself over the size, scale and mass of proposed new Café.

Particularly relevant is the adverse impact which proposals have upon neighbouring properties, particularly 36 Shore Road.  Neighbours have concerns that the impact will be dominant and will overshadow with the loss of sunlight.  For this reason, Gurnard Parish Council has asked for members of the Planning Committee to view this overdominance for themselves on site.   In addition to these are the concerns that proposals that will ensure privacy, amenity and outlook is lost, whilst it is considered that the design and character of proposals are out of character with the local area.

Please can it be noted by members that this area in recent years has lent itself to redevelopment, and many of the residential applications that have been refused because of size, scale and mass has been upheld at appeal.   What is of concern to residents is the fact that if approved this proposed two-storey application could revert to residential use in the future, and this application has been made to overcome upheld planning restrictions.

As local Councillor, I am very supportive of steps to regenerate this area.  However, concerns have been expressed to me that, although there is an expansion proposed, as well as extended opening hours there will be no extra staff.  If there is no intention to expand the business at this stage, why are there contradicting proposals for an extra floor with a balcony, and no extra parking to accommodate this ability for expansion?

Parking is of real concern to residents, and I ask for extra mitigation to be made.

Another issue raised with respect to expanding this business onto two floors are the concerns of noise nuisance for neighbours over the winter period, as well as during summer until 11pm.  Should the second storey be used, under current proposals this will increase noise nuisance for neighbours.  It is noted, this application is very different from the existing café, which is sustainable and open until late afternoons six days a week.      

Finally, concerns have been raised regarding land stability and the impact upon the integrity of the culvert that carries the watercourse from the River Jordan.  In discussions with local residents they remain unassured by mitigation following the initial objection by the Environment Agency.

Although the applicant has modified plans, residents feel that ‘modified’ proposals has not gone far enough to overcome objections.

As Ward Councillor, I ask that this current application is refused on the following grounds:

·         DM2. Because of the overdominant nature of the proposal, the design does not maintain, conserve, complement or enhance the important character of Shore Road.

·         DM14. It is perceived by residents that the structure does not adequate protect, or enhance land stability or flood risk to properties in Shore Road from the River Jordan.

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

·         66 dwellings at Oxford Street, Northwood.

A number of residents have contacted me for support concerning proposals to develop on farmland, immediately adjacent to the settlement boundary in Northwood.  Although this does may not directly impact upon Cowes or Gurnard, if approved there will be further pressure put upon roads and infrastructure.  

Northwood Parish Council has objected to proposals at a meeting in the village, attended by over 100 residents.

·         Meadow View, Place Road.

I met with developers to discuss concerns which were raised by residents following the lighting of bonfires earlier this summer.  From my perspective, it is important that similar incidents do not reoccur, and I have approached both the Planners and Environmental Health to ensure action is taken.   Work is shortly due to commence on Phase 2, in respect to this I have forwarded individuals with a local need for the affordable housing aspect of this phase.

I understand also that the developer has also purchased adjoining farmland.  However, have been advised this is for potential environmental enhancements which the developer suggests will improve the outlook for residents once the Meadow View development is completed in the coming years.

Beach Huts.

Proposals to increase Beach Hut fees, remain under consideration by the IW Council.  Following feedback, last month I met with Cllr Hutchinson, and was advised that after feedback, some suggestions made will be within the proposals to be outlined in the coming months to owners. From my perspective, I support increased fees being introduced to non-Isle of Wight residents only.

Gurnard Pines.

I was invited to a meeting called by Gurnard Pines residents which followed increased fees being introduced for electricity and water through the installation of so called ‘smart meters’. Because the holiday park is privately owned, under current legislation the parks owners can introduce fees and charges as they see fit to manage the park. 

This is of real concern to me as there are residents that living on site, many of who are vulnerable and require support.

This issue does not only apply to Gurnard Pines, but to most holiday parks who have a residential aspect to them and is an issue for many authorities where tourism is important. 

At the meeting the following outcomes, were agreed:

1.    An article would feature in the IW County Press, to gauge issues/ questions from residents.

2.    Residents to relay concerns to local councillor by end of September.  These will be ‘in confidence’.

3.    A meeting will take place with residents’ representatives to take forward issues/ questions to site owners.

4.    Consideration of forming a resident’s organisation.  This will be for all residents regardless of chalet ownership.

5.    A delegation to meet with the Member of Parliament, should questions not be satisfactorily resolved.

6.    A drop in surgery may be held late autumn with residents to support their housing/ social requirements.

Cowes Week overview.

It was agreed by Cowes Town Council to invite one of the key organisers of events to provide an overview of events during Cowes Week.

Although I received some complaints concerning overflowing bins and discarded litter, businesses, visitors and residents generally supported and welcomed the night-time cleansing by Island Roads.

Parking continued to be an issue, again complaints were received about mobility homes and overnight parking on Egypt Esplanade. Following complaints, Parking Enforcement was also necessary on Egypt Hill and Baring Road, where motorists moved traffic cones to park.

Many thanks to (Cllr) Lynn Hammond and volunteers for brilliantly managing extra car parking at Northwood Park!

I also received complaints concerning impeded access for taxis and mobility impaired residents needing to access parking at the Red Jet, Town Quay and the High Street between junctions with Terminus Road and Carvel Lane.

In response to these issues, I am looking forward to arranging a meeting with officers to see what improvements can be made for next year’s Traffic Order.

Following cancellations, overloaded buses, mobility impaired residents not being able to find a seat I have also contacted Southern Vectis requesting extra capacity either through more buses or larger buses on the No. 1 service connecting Cowes and Newport.  Details can be found below:

Dear Mr Wickham,

As local councillor for Cowes West and Gurnard, I am writing to request better capacity buses on route 1 (Cowes-Newport).  This follows complaints that buses cannot always collect residents because they are overloaded. In addition, residents have also asked me to take up a number of issues with your company.

Please note that several residents over the last few months have asked me to request either larger buses or an increase from eight buses an hour to ten buses which was in place on this popular route ten years ago.

The reasons for my request are as follows:

1.     Residents are frequently not able to catch buses from Cowes Medical Centre and St Mary’s Hospital. At St Mary’s, I witnessed a fully laden bus stop in favour of buses behind where people were not standing.  I personally witnessed occasions when despite being flagged down, and being clearly visible the driver chose not to stop and pick up from St Mary’s- why.  If the bus driver is in a position to catch up time, does this show that due to over-capacity a problem exists?)

2.     Students filling up capacity on buses before Cowes Medical Centre and Roundhouse.  Do Southern Vectis know how many extra students buy rover tickets who will be staying/ using the IW College on the Cowes-Newport corridor and what steps do Southern Vectis take to accommodate these extra loadings?

3.     Buses being taken out of service, without replacements at Cowes Week and on Sundays. Please see an unresponded Twitter feed.  If buses do need to be taken out of service, why was this not posted on Twitter or within Real Time? 

4.     Why aren’t double decked buses used?  Currently Southern Vectis operates 8 buses an hour, with a maximum of only 2 Red Jets being operated. In addition, Town Quay is not used during Cowes Week.  Why are the Blue Line (school) buses not being used during summer/ busy periods?

5.     Often there is no room for disabled, elderly and other mobility impaired residents being able to find seats Newport bound after Smithards Lane and Cowes Medical Centre, and Cowes bound at Newport Bus Station.  One Cowes resident reported having to wait for an hour to get home at the Horseshoe because of no spare seats at Cowes Medical Centre.  In addition often there is no standing room on Cowes bound buses often from Bus Station.  Young people seem less willing to give up seats as there is a  presumption of ‘paying for a seat’.

6.     There is insufficient storage on Red Jet services.  This often leads to aisles being blocked and seats being used.  What is Southern Vectis’ policy to deal with this?

In addition I have been asked to highlight the following:

7.     (I understand) public money was spent to outline location indicators on the bus. This facility does not work, and is confusing for visitors and more frequently than not gives false information on the bus’ whereabouts.  What steps are being taken to rectify this problem, as no information is better than wrong information?        

8.     Access for disabled leaving the bus station towards the library is impaired for mobility scooters, wheel chair users, prams and pushchairs following the relocation of the No. 9 bus stop.  This is a concern for bus users as well as mobility impaired pedestrians using Orchard Street following Southern Vectis reconfiguring the bus station in spring.  What action is planned to improve mobility access since reconfiguration?

Yours sincerely,

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

Elsewhere this Cowes Week, I had an excellent time meeting residents, visitors, businesses and supporters of this year’s regatta as Town Mayor. From the discussions that I had, helped by the fantastic summer this year’s event was over flowing with a good atmosphere, and was celebrated as one of the best events for many years.  Many thanks to Lendy and the sponsors for making this year’s Cowes Week a resounding success!

News from Cowes Medical Centre.

Cowes Medical Centre are urging residents to book their Flu Jab.  This can be undertaken by appointment, and is most effective when taken between September and November.  At the same time immunisation can also be taken for shingles.  In addition the Centre is also reminding residents about making appointments for cervical screening, and if interested registering to the practice for on-line services, where two forms of ID are required (Driving Licence/ Passport plus Utility Bill).  Please call 294902 to book an appointment.

Anti-Social Parking.

Thank you to those drivers who have stopped parking on pavements.  It is very much appreciated!  At Full Council, there was ongoing support from Councillors to see more done to tackle the issue in some areas of the Island, where mobility impaired residents/ mums with pushchairs are getting fed up with having to bypass vehicles and needing to walk in the highway.

Sadly, this is not a national priority for the police.  However, locally I would like to thank both police officers,  community enforcement officers and in many cases residents themselves taking positive action to free up pavements for pedestrians.  Thank you!   

Also this month

• ·         Work is due to commence resurfacing Tuttons Hill for 5 days from Tuesday 4^th September.
• ·         A meeting has been arranged to move forward proposals and new artwork for The Cut, Cowes.  I am liaising with Cowes Town Councillor, Paul Taylor and the Council’s Projects Committee to see this progressed.
• ·         I’ve been in touch with Floatyfinder.com creators who are providing updates on the Cowes Floating Bridge and its operating schedule. Thank you Mike and Adam for providing this important resource for residents!
• ·         I’m supporting the ‘Keep Newtown For The Birds’ campaign, following commercialisation of Newtown’s nature reserve, and the impact that some pursuits are having upon flora and fauna in this important SSSI.
• ·         I have supported a resident who approached me concerning a neighbours adverse planning application.
• ·         The Princes Esplanade broken handrail was fixed following intervention from myself and Gurnard Parish Councillor, Terry Nolan.    
• ·         I received a complaint from a home owner about the removal of the Biffa Bin in Shore Road.  This resident was advised to take up the collection plus service being that he was not permanently living locally.
• ·         I referred an elderly resident for assisted collections.  This was due to being unaware of this.  If you are aware of residents struggling with their waste and recycling, or if you have neighbours who may benefit from collection plus, please let me know!
• ·         I am supporting a resident who alleges their driveway damaged by refuse vehicles.
• ·         I am pursuing action is taken regarding a vehicle that regularly parks on double yellow lines in Baring Road.
• ·         I received a request regarding speeding traffic in Seaview Road, Cowes this was referred to Cllr Nicholson as local councillor for South West.
• ·         Discarded timber on Gurnard Green has been reported, and appropriate action taken.