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

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

Surgeries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Cowes High School.

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

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

2. Rew Street.

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

3. Crossfield Estate- Open Planned Conditions.

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

4. Cowes Learning Centre.

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

5. The Glen, Worsley Road.

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

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

6. 8 Cliff Road.

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

7. Ward Avenue Chalet.

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

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

8. Gurnard School.

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

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

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

9. Cowes and Gurnard Beaches.

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

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

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

10. Cockleton Lane.

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

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

11. Woodland, Cowes/Gurnard Seafront.

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

12. School Governors.

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

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

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

In the last month:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Month:

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

Binstead and Fishbourne Elects new Independent Councillor

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

The full results were:

    
Ivor George Warlow, Independent, 428 votes

Ian Cobb, Conservative Party, 424


Tim Wakeley, Liberal Democrat, 139


Daryll Pitcher, UKIP 93


Mick Lyons, Labour Party, 66

Fire Service Call Centre.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Update on Replacement Bus Service

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

I remain positive that work on training can now progress.

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

What I've been up to in the last month

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

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

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

• I continue chasing a number of Planning Enforcement issues.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gurnard Beach

Action Taken on Dog Mess, Litter and Beach Parties. 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

Isle Of Wight Festival

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

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

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

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

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

Baring Road

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

 

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

Parking matters

PAVEMENT PARKING BYE-LAW REJECTED.

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

DOUBLE YELLOW LINES FOR THE AVENUE REJECTED.

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

RESIDENTS PERMITS CHALLENGED BY INDEPENDENTS.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

MORNINGTON ROAD: RESIDENTS SEASONAL PARKING TO BE INVESTIGATED

 

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

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

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

Pan Meadows: New Homes for Local People?

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

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

SHLAA Update: What Happens Next?

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

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

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

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

Next Steps: SHLAA

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

Next Steps Core Strategy

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

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

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

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

Formal SHLAA Representation

26th May 2011.

Dear Sir/ Madam

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

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

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

On a site by site basis, I object to:

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

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

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

 

Land at Place Road, Gurnard. (LDF381)

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

 

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

 

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

Land at Pine Tree Close, Cowes. (C150)

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

Yours,

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

SHLAA Deadline

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

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

Surgeries for (End of May), June and July

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

SHLAA Update

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

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

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

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

Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment Meetings.

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

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

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

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

May Blog coming soon!

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

Annual Report 2011

Representing Your Views First.

I‘ve been local Councillor for almost two years, and for me it remains important that I continue enthusiastically representing the views of our community.

As your Councillor, I am not aligned to any political party whatsoever meaning my commitment to put your needs first is absolute.

I am a member of the Council’s 10 strong Group of Independent Councillors, which is the second largest group on the IW Council. I hold the belief that I’m not ‘in opposition’, preferring to work alongside all Councillors, for the best interests for our Island.

If you’re not happy or you think I’ve got things wrong please tell me. If I pass on issues to be dealt with, I expect these to be resolved. If for any reason you are dissatisfied, let me fight your corner. This was what I was elected to do, and what I will continue to do so long as I remain as your Councillor!

 

Annual Report.

Welcome to my second Annual Report, which summarises my work over the past 12 months.

All Isle of Wight Councillors are expected to write an Annual Report. I believe all residents should receive regular Councillors reports enabling you to scrutinise our work on your behalf. In my report, I’ve outlined some of the matters I’ve addressed and some I continue to campaign for.

If you require more information, monthly reports are posted out to residents who request them; can be accessed via www.paulfullercc.blogspot.com; visiting Gurnard Parish Council’s web site or from Town or Parish Council meetings which I attend. Reports also feature monthly in Gurnard News (and edited for the Cowes Beacon.)

Thank you, once more for giving me this opportunity to represent your views in County Hall.

How To Contact Me:

By Post to: 74 Wyatts Lane, Cowes, Isle of Wight. PO31 8QA.


By Telephone to: (01983) 289595 [24 hours] 07 935 090 835 [mobile]


By Email to: paulfuller@onwight.net
 
 
 

Visits and Surgeries

Please contact me to arrange a visit, alternatively I hold surgeries, which usually follows this cycle:


5:30-6pm, 1st Tuesday of the month: Sports Bar, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

6-6:30pm, 2nd Tuesday of the month: Portland Inn, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, 3rd Wednesday of the month: The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

11:40-12:10pm , 3rd or 4th Wednesday of the month: Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard. (Summer Only)

3-4pm, 4th or 5th Wednesday of the month: Cowes High School, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

Confirmation of surgeries feature in Cowes Beacon and Gurnard News and are subject to change during holiday periods. For further information, please visit: http://www.paulfullercc.blogspot.com/
 
 

One year, In a nutshell:

April 2010

• I met with Bucklers View residents re: the potential loss of the warden service and presented residents petition to Cllr. David Pugh at Full Council
• Discussed future options for Safe Routes To School with Solent Middle School
• Requested improved litter picks to Gurnard Beach.

May

• I supported a change to planning conditions for Solent Lawns following concerns over the loss of privacy from neighbours in Worsley Lane.
• I received reassurance from the IW Council concerning future funding to train young cyclists.
• I met with Northwood House Trustees, and discussed future options for the house and park.

June

• Made representations on behalf of residents for the proposed new Secondary School.
• New planning legislation was introduced, to prevent the over-development of back gardens.
• Took action, following trees being cut back from two TPO’d woodland sites in Cowes and Gurnard.

July

• I got behind the campaign for 2 (whole) Members of Parliament to represent the Island.
• Work began on the Baring Road pavement linking Crossfield Avenue to Roundhouse.
• The Lions and the Fountain on Cowes/ Gurnard Esplanades were restored.

August

• I launched my IW Councillors Blog.
• Campaigned with students to ensure an alternative concession was provided for Under 18’s.
• Supported Northwood House Trustees following the IW Council giving notice to withdraw services.

September

• Leaflet dropped households affected by the Shoreline Management Plan.
• Started Students Surgeries at Cowes High School.
• Became the first IW Councillor to post their Financial and Other Interests on-line.

October

• I organised a meeting between Older Voices and Cowes Medical Centre following concerns raised over accessing treatment. Steps were taken by all agencies to overcome problems highlighted.
• Work started on the new cross-Solent Gas Main in Rew Street. Liaison meetings were set up to deal with ongoing issues.
• I questioned the IW Council for not reintroducing parking permits, after revenue fell this summer.

November

• I registered complaints regarding: breaches of 6”6 restrictions. Action was taken to address these.
• I submitted a disability audit undertaken in liaison with members of Older Voices to Cllr. Giles.
• I contacted the Council following concerns over Wightbus. A helped to form a working party set up to create an alternative bus service, should the service be withdrawn.

December

• I took up residents concerns over changes to Adult Care Provision.
• I worked closely with Neighbourhood Watch reps and the IW Council following this years snowfall.
• Gullies from Cockleton Lane were cleared following complaints about ice.

January 2011

• I received complaints concerning contractors in Shore Road damaging verges and leaving mud on the road. Highways and The Police took action.
• An appeal had to be made following the ongoing thefts from vehicles in Cowes and Gurnard.
• I suggested Councillors Allowances were reduced rather than frozen at Full Council

February

• I met residents, and consulted widely on budget proposals put forward by the Cabinet. In light of the feedback from the consultation, I worked with consultees on viable solutions.
• I helped arrange the first meeting between residents and contractors for the new school.
• I arranged for seating to be fitted at the Place Road bus stop at Roundhouse.

March

• I suggested routes for 2 new services once Wightbus ceases. Due to early preparation the Cowes, Gurnard & Northwood service is considered the most viable of the 8 planned.
• I joined the Cowes Library Forum.
• Received intervention following complaints over parking issues off Crossfield Avenue.

Most issues that I receive relate either to Planning Matters or Transport. Since last year I’ve joined the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Committee and remain as a long standing member of the Council’s Planning Committee. In addition, I’ve held regular meetings with officers from both departments and often invite residents to attend meetings, so officers understand the complexities of issues raised. In this time, I have also worked alongside agencies like Planning Aid, and continue to work in close partnership with the Member of Parliament’s Office.


On Planning Matters.


In my first year as Councillor I contended with a significant number of fairly substantial planning applications. This year, most of these applications have been approved, or re-submitted as less controversial schemes. This has led on to me dealing with the consequences of having many new developments within a small area which in-turn is having a notable affect on residents living close to Egypt Hill in Cowes and Shore Road, Gurnard.



I would like to pass on my thanks to applicants who have approached their neighbours about their proposals at pre-application stage. This provides applicants an opportunity to overcome obstacles before it is too late! With respect to larger applications, I remain mindful that problems do arise and therefore I’ve initiated regular liaison meetings between residents, applicants and constructors. This continues at Gurnard with the Cross-Solent Gas Main Application, and at Crossfield Avenue, Cowes where work is underway on the new school. Meanwhile, I’m hoping to meet with developers in Egypt Hill and Baring Road where work is due to begin on major projects.



On Transport Matters.



Prior to the budget being set, I asked the Scrutiny Committee to challenge the need to charge pedestrians and passengers on the Cowes Floating Bridge; I also asked for a audit to be undertaken for residents’ permits as I am not convinced this would lose the Council revenue. Prior to the budget, Cabinet agreed with our reservations on the Floating Bridge, whilst I consider the campaign to reintroduce parking permits is growing in momentum.



Knowing that the IW Council was considering removing our local bus service, I joined forces with bus users and local parish and town councillors in exploring options for a replacement bus service once Wightbus ceased in September. Following evidence which demonstrated that a need exists; Southern Vectis, shared our enthusiasm for getting a scheme off the ground. I’ve suggested to Cowes Town Councillors’ a second route, which could fill gaps in the Cowes area, particularly in parts of Baring Road where no service exists at present, thus improving the service from Cowes to the Crossfield Estate.



Within next years Capital Programme, there will be replacement light columns for Crossfield Avenue, Tuttons Hill, The Avenue and Marsh Road, whilst Park Road and Princes Esplanade are ’reserved’ schemes for highway maintenance. In addition, I‘ve had a positive response to Parklands Avenue and Ward Avenue receiving Government Grant funding for roads damaged by winter weather.



Because of financial constraints no funding is available for the pavement for Baring Road linking Pine Tree Close with Nubia Close. I’ve therefore with the support of local residents asked for other options to be considered for this scheme, understanding that developers contributions have also been ring-fenced for this project.



Isle of Wight Council Budget, an Independent’s Perspective.



Like all Isle of Wight Councillors I was lobbied by constituents over the cabinets proposals for this years budget. I believe no Councillor (of any political colour) wanted to see cutbacks, to the scale that was asked for.



Following the consultation, I felt it was essential to find alternatives whereby libraries could retain their opening hours, and where public toilets, tourist information centres, museums, archives and Ryde Waterside Pool were kept open. I believed it important to retain Lifeguards, the Music Service, and Ventnor Botanic Gardens whilst not charging pedestrians on the Cowes Chain Ferry. In line with views I received, I supported the resurrection of a residents parking permit which would encourage people to use local shops. In addition, I believed it was important to invest in our community bus services and provide support for victims of domestic abuse.



Within the Independent Group, we believed this was achievable by postponing investment into work station gyms and making cuts to Councillors and staff salaries rather than through redundancies. By taking this approach the Council would be better equipped to explore savings for next year. This budget was lawful and balanced.

Between 1st April and 31st March:

• As your Councillor I was, and continue to be accessible and ‘on-call’ 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• I work full time in this role and tend to work anywhere between 30 and 60 hours in any one week.
• I attended 261 meetings, associated with my work as an IW Councillor.
• Of these, I attended 43 out of 43 IW Council summoned meetings, being the 2nd best Councillor attendee. (Last year I was 3rd)
• I attended 71 IW Council meetings, seminars, briefings, events, exhibitions & associated meetings.
• I attended 12 out of 12 Cowes Town Council Meetings; and 12 out of 12 Gurnard Parish Council Meetings, usually remaining to the very end!
• I attended a further 40 Parish and Town Council associated Meetings.
• I attended 25 Residents’ Groups Meetings
• I arranged and attended 30 Home visits or face to face residents meetings with IW Council officers
• I attended 28 Governor and school related events and meetings.
• In addition to my meetings I attended a further 53 surgeries, meeting 47 residents in 6 different venues
• I leafleted around 2,200 households with Annual Reports and consultation letters
• I received around 2,900 council related emails, 808 telephone calls and 109 letters. I aim to respond to all ‘personal’ calls/ requests within 3 days of receipt (12 hrs for local residents)

Last year I received a Councillors Allowance of: £8543.35 Gross Pay

My expenses attributed to my work for last year, are as follows:

£ 240.00 Annual Report 2009/ 2010.
£ 226.74 Office Equipment (Printer and Telephone)
£ 189.92 Contribution towards Broadband connection, landline, mobile and costs from use of home as ‘office‘.
£ 58.53 Office Supplies (Stationary, paper and ink cartridges)
£ 56.00 Contribution towards repairs, Virus Protection and upgrade to Computer
£ 28.00 Misc. Costs (including travel),

£799.19 Total expenses attributed to my work as Councillor.

As a Councillor, I serve on Full Council, The Planning Committee, The Licensing & General Purposes Committee, The Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel and The Children & Young People Scrutiny Committee. I have also been appointed to serve as a Governor for Cowes High School and am a member of the Local Access Forum. In my own right I am a member of the Cowes Youth Club Management Committee, a ‘friend’ of Northwood House and Park, am a Trustee for the Friends Of Northwood Cemetery, a Management Committee for the Footprint Trust. I serve as a Northwood Parish Councillor and have been a Justice Of The Peace since 2001. I am married to Karen, and have two children attending local schools.



My Aspirations for this coming year:

• To put residents first.
• To continue enjoying my work as Councillor.
• To ensure prudent budgets are set in line with our community’s priorities.
• To be accessible and transparent in my work for our community.
• To strengthen close partnership with Cowes Town and Gurnard Parish Councillors.
• To build upon partnerships with individuals, residents groups, business organisations, local schools and the MP in insuring the very best outcomes are achieved for all residents.
• To work positively for the Island alongside all Councillors, regardless of their political or non-political identity.
• To champion Eco-Island, and to work towards a Greener environment for our community.
• To say yes more often, and to find reasons for carrying out initiatives, rather than reinforcing reasons not to.
• To call at every home.

And Finally….


If there is absolutely anything you need, please do not hesitate to contact me. If I can’t help, I will do my level best to signpost you to somebody that can! Thank you for reading my report.