IW Councillors Report: October

Surgeries:

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

1-1:30pm, Wednesday 15^th October, The Little Gloster, Marsh Road, Gurnard.

3-3:30pm, Wednesday 22^nd October, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

6-6:30pm, Thursday 30^th October, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard. (NEW DATE!)

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

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

Road Resurfacing Programme Update.

I am advised that Ward Avenue is due to be resurfaced from the 25-29^th September.  Following concerns raised about undertaking this work during school hours, the view expressed regarding the importance of Ward Avenue for commuters and its importance as an strategic road the decision has been taken to undertake this work at night.

In addition, Island Roads are also intending to resurface Baring Road between October and March 2015.  Requests for this work has featured heavily during consultations between residents, myself and Island Roads.

The contractors are hoping to undertake this work before Christmas, however there remains a few loose ends that require resolution, before timescales can be agreed.   This may result again in work being carried out at night, however I have suggested that the whole of the road between Roundhouse and Ward Avenue is completed in one go, to save further disruption to residents

Isle of Wight Council: Executive Reshuffle.

Last month Cllrs. Jon Gilbey and Richard Priest left the Council’s Executive resulting in the need for a reshuffle. Subsequently, I was appointed as the Executive Member for Planning and Licensing, resulting in me vacating the Chair of the Planning Committee and no longer serving on the large number Committees which I was appointed.

On a positive note, this should result in greater cross-party working, as no group within the Council comes close to overall control. 

In the meantime within my new portfolio, I have been brought up to speed with priorities that were being pursued by my predecessor Cllr. Jonathan Bacon, whilst I’ve had meetings with the Heads of Planning, the Heads of Licencing and am in discussions with officers on proposals being tabled for next year’s budget.

CCTV Footage: Island Waste/ Hampshire Constabulary Joint Initiative.

A joint initiative has been launched between local Police and the Island’s waste collection provider in an attempt to cut the number of driving incidents which pose a risk to workers.

Hampshire Constabulary and Island Waste Services have joined forces to promote road safety after CCTV footage captured by waste vehicles shows a number of incidents of dangerous driving whilst staff are collecting rubbish bins across the Isle of Wight.

The footage has shockingly revealed drivers mounting pavements, driving too close and even shouting abuse at collection workers.

The video can be viewed via the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q31LXQKxaWo

Isle of Wight Council Budget: 2015/6.

As referred to earlier within this report, work continues to identify savings from next year’s ‘difficult’ budget.

In the last month, I have attended member’s briefings, meetings with senior officers and local councils to understand what are ‘Statutory’ Services and what are resident’s expectations of these services. It is likely, that in many cases these expectations will exceed what is a minimal statutory level.

Consultation Roadshows will take place to enable residents to join the debate. The Cowes Roadshow will take place 6-9pm, Tuesday 18^th November at UKSA, Cowes.

Bonfires.

Bonfires continues to be a major issue with local residents.  Following the very high volume of complaints that I receive (I’m receiving 3 or 4 calls each week, mainly from residents of Baring Road), I am attempting to call a meeting to share information, and to assess whether there is further work that can be taken.

In the meantime, Environmental Health has asked that any complaints are logged direct to them on 01983 823000

Southern Water.

Following a number of lengthy telephone calls, I met with the Area Manager for Southern Water. I am now able to report:

·         Further investigations will take place following the replacement of a fractured combined water main continuing to leak in Shore Rd/ Worsley Rd, Gurnard.

·         The Woodvale Pumping Station is due to have a make-over in the coming months.

·         There are a number of difficult issues in Marsh Road that Southern Water are keen to resolve.

·         In Crossfield Avenue, residents have approached me over odour issues and ‘perceived’ blocked pipes.  Southern Water are continuing to investigate concerns over shared drains and are monitoring complaints.

·         At the meeting, I also passed on paperwork received from residents of East Cowes.

Southern Water has emphasised to me the importance for all customers to refer any issues or complaints direct to themselves on 0845 278 0845 in the first instance.  Should you wish to complain by email (and require your own audit trail!), I would suggest that before doing so you copy, paste and store your complaint beforehand!

Gurnard Primary School, Former Playing Field and Orchard Update.

As part of a wider consultation incorporating Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan, an information session on the options will take place from 6:30-8:30pm, Thursday 16^th October at Gurnard Village Hall.

The two alternative options to be considered for the Former Playing Field and Orchard are as follows.

OPTION 1: Transfer the lease to manage the former playing field and Orchard to Gurnard Parish Council.

·         The IW Council has agreed to offer this to Gurnard Parish Council at a peppercorn lease (£1) for 125 years.

·         The annual maintenance cost estimated by the IW Council is estimated to be around £2500 (For Grass and Hedge Cutting). This cost would need to be underwritten by the Parish Council.

·         A further one off cost <£1000 will be required for legal costs for the lease.

·         This may result in additional work for the Parish Clerk.

·         This could result in an extra £3.16 on the Council Tax Precept for a Band D Property.

·         Gurnard Parish Council are advised that a covenant will be placed on use of the site.  This will mean that the playing field will be restricted to recreational pursuits. These include dog walking, football, picnics etc, whilst allotments use under DFE guidelines would be restricted. This would apply for 11 years (I believe this could be overcomeable!)

·         A Resident’s Group could be set up to oversee the site.  This would allow for grant funding and sponsorship to be sought.  If the allotment condition could be overcome this could assist with ongoing costs. 

OPTION 2: To reject the offer from the IW Council.

·         The likely outcome of this would be that the IW Council would sell the land and freehold on the open market.

·         The covenant restricting use of the site, would apply for 11 years from sale.

Speeding Traffic.

In discussions with several residents during the summer, I have been asked to look into the issue of speeding traffic in Gurnard.

Before proceeding, I’ve asked for feedback from Gurnard Parish Council and from local residents to see whether there are any additional steps that need to be taken.  One road that is causing some concern is Tuttons Hill, where I have noted that the Speed Indicator Devise needs to be repaired. 

In the meantime, please let me know your views!

Cockleton Lane One Way Traffic Flow Consultation.

My grateful thanks to residents who contacted me about the suggestion that the IW Council looked into making traffic flow in Cockleton Lane one way. I hinted in my last report that this would only be pursued if there was overwhelming support and no opposition.

Since then I have spoken to local councillors, and several residents who contacted me.  Of the 8 responses I have received, 7 opposed me pursuing this.  Because of this feedback, I will not be taking further action!

STORAGE NEEDED!

Volunteers who upkeep woodland at Mornington Wood are appealing for a secure space, to store their tools.  If you have room nearby, please let me know and I can pass this information on the group!!   

Full Council Report: Report from the Executive Member for Planning and Licencing.

Development control.

The Planning Committee considered a report in respect of the Navitus Bay Wind Farm planning application at its meeting on 22 July 2014 and submitted formal comments to the Planning Inspectorate. The council attended the preliminary pre-examination meeting on 11 September 2014 at Bournemouth. Officers will attend those examination sessions which are relevant to the Island. 

Applications have recently been received for the former listed Frank James Hospital. This includes for internal alterations to the currently approved scheme together with some external development. The intention is that this will, if approved, improve the viability of the current scheme and allow for future maintenance works on the property. 

Enforcement

The council, using its powers under Section 215 of the Planning Act, has secured a considerable improvement to a development site at Fort Warden, Colwell. 

Policy development

Officers are continuing to draw out from the responses to the discussion documents the key matters that will inform the three area action plan documents. The outcome of the consultation will be considered by the Environment and Public Protection Executive Advisory Committee on 25 September 2014. 

Bembridge Neighbourhood Development Plan (BNDP)

The BNDP was the subject of a referendum on 24 July 2014, when it was overwhelmingly agreed by the local electorate. It was formally made on 28 July 2014.

Fishbourne Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

This was adopted on 14 August 2014. 

Licensing

August was an extremely busy month for events which included Cowes week, Jack Up the 80s, Garlic Festival, VDub, Chale Show and the Scooter Rally. All of these events have been attended by relevant officers

Generally all events were held with very few complaints or issues reported. The Licensing Section, through its Safety Advisory Group duties, is currently consulting with the different agencies to obtain their comments on this year’s events. 

The end of summer of events was marked by the Bestival. An update will be provided at the next Full Council. However, I can say that officers have worked with all relevant agencies and the event organisers to ensure that appropriate plans to ensure public protection were in place for the event.

Also This Month:

·         A very big thank you to the Volunteers of Cowes Carnival who invited myself, Councillors and the Cowes Business Association to their Headquarters Last Month.  I know the Committee are constantly on the look-out for volunteers and sponsors to assist their efforts! For further information contact Lynn on 01983 282308!

·         Many thanks to those residents who have contacted me concerning proposal to charge for pedestrians on Cowes Floating Bridge.  The consultation on this is ongoing!

·         Thanks also to residents who have contacted me concerning the Fire Service Review

·         I attended Training on Auditing, Heritage, the Community Right to Bid & received updates on the Waste Contract.

·         I attended a meeting of the Footprint Trust, where I was asked to investigate asking the IW Council to run a seminar on Assisted Area Status.  It was also drawn to my attention the disadvantages the Isle of Wight has when it comes to accruing grant funding for Fuel Poverty projects on behalf of Energy Companies. This I am pursuing on their behalf

·         I attended the Local Access Forum, and received support from the Forum and The Ramblers Association on local projects.

·         I attended the most recent meeting of the Solent Forum, and received updates on next year’s consultation on Marine Conservation Zones.  I also learnt a great deal about Portsmouth and Southampton’s Coastal Planning Methodology.

·         Within the Planning Committee, Applications were approved at Westridge Golf Course, to convert the former Post Office, Brading, to create a House of Multi Occupancy, Lake and to provide a new café at Peter Pan’s Playground, Ryde.  

·         The new timetable for the Cowes Community Bus will come into operation from 12^th October.  Within the route for the Cowes Community Bus, will now serve Aldi….However the 11:30am service from Cowes will now call at Rew Street rather than Cockleton Lane.  Until this month neither myself or the local councils knew nothing about this change.

IW Councillors Report: September 2014

Surgeries:

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

5:30-6pm, Tuesday 2^nd September, Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

12:15-12:45pm, Thursday 11^th September, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard. 

(RESCHEDULED TIMING!)

3-3:30pm, Thursday 25^th September, Cowes Enterprise College, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

5-5:30pm, Tuesday 30^th September, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

4:30-5pm, Tuesday 7th October,  Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes

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

Gurnard Coastal Path Update.

I am awaiting an update from Gurnard Parish Council on the meeting requested with landowners.

In the meantime, I’m ever grateful for the feedback and support which I have received from residents concerning this.  During this summer I’ve spoken to Rights Of Way, fellow Councillors and the MP who has taken an active interest on this and offered suggestions which I am pursuing.

I can report that with regard to the section of footpath lost towards Thorness, quotations have been requested for the cost of re-fencing the path.  Towards the Gurnard section, I’m informed that a further cliff fall has taken place, and a site visit will take place between the landowner and Rights Of Way in the coming days.

Dog Mess.

I know of a number of complaints received concerning bags of dog poo being indiscriminately deposited in hedgerows, on the beach adjacent to local footpaths and in some cases resident’s gardens!

In one case, I’ve been advised that the police were called and action taken.

I appeal to the minority of dog owners who don’t already do so, to please take bags home with them, or discard these in bins provided. Should a bin be overflowing, please let me know so I can arrange for these to be emptied!

In the meantime, within the countryside, both the Local Access Forum and the AONB Partnership consider this a problem.

Pallance Road Post Office To Close?

I’ve been informed that the local Post Office in Northwood may close later this year.  This follows the imminent retirement of the postmistress and reduced subsidies to maintain a shop and Post Office.  Northwood Parish Council are exploring options, in the hope of preserving a counter within the confines of another existing business.

As adjacent Councillor, and knowing that many residents from Gurnard consider this to be their local post office, I’ve offered my support in seeking an alternative.

Cowes Enterprise College.  

This month, I’ll be sadly stepping down as Governor following the College transferring to Ormiston Academies Trust.

Well done to all Cowes Enterprise College students who took exams this year!. Following the hard work of students with the support of staff and parents the school/ college gained their highest ever GCSE results.  As a parent myself, I’m very proud of how much progress has been achieved in challenging circumstances.

This year, the college achieved its highest ever results and grades in English were particularly strong with 84% of students making expected progress. 64% of Maths students achieved an A-C grade. Subjects that performed include Art, iGCSE in English, Further Maths, Media, PE, Performing Arts, Physics, RS and Textiles

In addition 34% of A Level students achieved A* and A grades, a 19% increase from last year. All students who applied for university places have been successful.

Planning.

·         Proposed Storage Unit/ Garage, Rew Street.  What was considered by some neighbours to be a dominant building behind properties on the western edge of Rew Street, has been formally withdrawn by the applicant.

·         Proposed 7 dwellings, Land at former Gurnard School.  This application has been slightly downsized from a previous application.  From my perspective, I would be very surprised if this application was not acceptable to Planning Officers.

·         Land adjacent to: 44 Worsley Road. With the decision notice now signed, a number of concerns from residents have been raised that are being clarified with Planning Officers.

·         Planning Committee. The Planning Committee did not meet in August (There was two meetings in July!). Instead the Committee visited a number of sites which were approved and offered members to go back to and revisit.  Sites revisited included Solent Reach, Princes Esplanade.

·         Planning Appeals, Arreton.  I attended in part the appeal hearing for the two housing proposals for Arreton.

Cowes Community Bus.

This summer loading figures for the Cowes Community Bus has reached its highest levels.  The number of daily passenger journeys has now exceeded 100 on several occasions.

Last month, I was advised by Southern Vectis that it remains their intention to divert buses via the Aldi store.  I understand the section between Northwood Garage and Somerton Roundabout will be missed out in favour of allowing the bus to return from The Horseshoe via Nodes Road, Place Road and Three Gates Road.

If approved, the new diverted route will come into force for the Winter Timetable due to commence from October, and this section of the service will operate on a hail and ride basis

Environment and Public Protection Executive Advisory Committee.

As a member of this committee, I hope to have focused involvement on Planning Matters and Public Protection issues. The Committee are exploring the following issues for our next meeting:

·         The potential formation of an All-Island Flood Defence Committee to consider ‘Belwin Fund’ Expenditure.

·         Options for the IW Council’s successful bid for Phase 2 of the Local Sustainable Transport Funding. This funding amounts to £900k

·         Implementation of the Isle of Wight Parking Strategy.

·         Supermarket Levies.

·         Feedback from the recent Area Action Plan Consultation.

·         Marine Conservation Zones, and preparing for next year’s Consultation.

·         Investigating Plantlife accreditation.

Bonfires.

Many thanks to residents who have provided feedback concerning bonfires!

Issues with neighbour’s bonfires seem to be more widespread than I first anticipated.  That said, I have contacted Environmental Health.  Environmental Health have advised me that although there is no local bye-law restricting fires until after 6pm. Action can, and is taken by them through both the Clean Air Act, or by the police when smoke restricts visibility on the highway.

Through the Environmental Protection  Act (1990), Environmental Health can act when a neighbour lights regular bonfires (defined as more than 2 or 3 times a month), when a bonfire is particularly noxious, or out of control.

Further details of advice, and correspondence between myself and Environmental Health feature below:

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN MYSELF AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH REGARDING BONFIRES AND POWERS AVAILABLE.  (JULY/AUGUST 2014)

Paul,

It is a commonly held belief that byelaws exist in many parts of the country that control bonfires or restrict bonfires to after dusk.

In fact, there are no byelaws on the Island (or any other Council area in the UK as far as we are aware) that control bonfires. Byelaws can only be created where they are approved by the relevant Government Minister and we understand that approval of byelaws to control bonfires are very unlikely to be approved.  I have actually made such an enquiry before so know first hand.  I don’t believe there is a demand and no, there is no specific budget to persue it (at least not in Env Health).

There is, however, national legislation that makes the emission of dark smoke from a bonfire on a business or commercial site an offence (as defined under the Clean Air Act) and allows the Council to take legal action where it has good evidence that a bonfire on any premises has caused a statutory nuisance.

On the wood burner issue – certain restrictions apply to the use of certain fuels and certain appliances in areas Local Authorities have designated as ‘Smoke Control Areas’ - These were made to reduce air pollution in cities, mainly arising from the use of coal for heating purposes in the 1950s.  That doesn’t mean wood burners are banned in Smoke Control Areas, just that authorised fuels (often called smokeless fuel) and/or appliances exempt from the restrictions can only be used.  THERE ARE NO SUCH AREAS ON THE ISLAND so the restrictions do not apply.

I’ve asked for some assistance from my colleagues in the Health Protection Agency to answer your query about the linkage between high asthma rates in Cowes and pollution so I’ll come back to you on that one when I have something.  What I can so is that air quality on the Island to relatively good as you might expect and I am unaware of any evidence that links high asthma rates to pollution in Cowes.

Good afternoon Paul,

Following on from my last reply I would like to provide reassurance that the Isle of Wight has very good air quality given our coastal locality.  The air quality here is something we should be proud of, especially when compared with other areas inland on the mainland.  I do have sympathy for them and would encourage them to pursue the complaints they have raised with us.

 “Levels of asthma” can be considered in isolation of air quality.  The Public Health Practitioners describe disease frequency in two ways—as incidence or as prevalence.  Using asthma as an example: Incidence is a measure of new cases of asthma in a defined population, within a specific amount of time.  Prevalence is a measure of all of the cases of asthma in a defined population.  It is important to make this distinction as we have had FOI requests asking for one, but wanting an answer to the other.  Therefore, interpretation of “levels of disease” should be done carefully. 

 The crude asthma prevalence rate for the Isle of Wight is 6.9% (2013).  Isle of Wight prevalence is described by locality and range from 6.2 to 7.5 %.   East Cowes is a part of the North East Wight figures (6.2%) and  Cowes is considered a part of Central Wight (7.0%).  Prevalence in England is 6.0% (as per the Health and Social Care Information Centre Quality Outcomes data, 2013-2014).

 I caution against drawing a cause-and-effect conclusion that pollution or wood fires in the Cowes area have caused cases of asthma.  There is certainly no evidence to support that claim.  The true cause of asthma is not known, triggers however are numerous and further include house dust mites, diet, exercise, occupational hazards, poor housing conditions, etc.  It has been argued that asthma is associated with deprivation. e.g. cigarette smoking, for example, is more prevalent amongst lower socio-economic groups as are poor housing conditions (e.g. dampness and poor ventilation) and poorer diets. Asthma may also be associated with affluence e.g. central heating, carpeting, and double-glazing, for example.

 The Isle of Wight has very good air quality and local asthma prevalence figures in the north of the Island do not raise extra ordinary concern. 

 I hope that’s helpful,

COPY OF ISLE OF WIGHT ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH LEAFLET: 

BONFIRES.

During this time of the year, I always receive complaints from residents concerning either advice or complaints about bonfires.

I have copied guidance from the IW Councils Environmental Health Department below for further details please contact the department direct on 01983 823000. Office Hours are 8:30 am- 5:00 pm Monday - Thursday. Friday’s 8:30 am-4:30 pm.

WHAT’S WRONG WITH BONFIRES?

Air Pollution

Burning garden waste produces smoke, especially if it is damp and smouldering. This will contain pollutants including carbon monoxide, dioxins and particles. Burning plastic, rubber or painted materials not only creates an unpleasant smell, but also produces a range of poisonous compounds. Your bonfire will also add to the general background level of air pollution. Air pollution in the UK often reaches unhealthy levels – do you really want to make it worse?

Health Effects.

Emissions from bonfires can have damaging health effects. Serious harm is unlikely if exposure to bonfire smoke is brief. However, problems may be caused for asthmatics, bronchitis sufferers, people with heart conditions and children.

Annoyance

The smoke, smuts and smell from bonfires are the subject of many complaints to local authorities. Smoke prevents your neighbours from enjoying their gardens, opening windows or hanging washing out, and reduces visibility in the neighbourhood and on roads.

Safety

Fires can spread to fences or buildings and scorch trees and plants. Exploding bottles and cans are a hazard when rubbish is burned. Piles of garden waste are often used as a refuge by animals, so look out for hibernating wildlife and sleeping pets. Never leave your fire unattended.

WHAT’S THE ALTERNATIVE?

Composting

Rather than burning garden waste or putting food waste in the dustbin where it will end up buried or incinerated, a compost bin will produce a useful soil conditioner, saving money on commercial products. Woody waste can be shredded to make it suitable for composting or mulching. You can buy or hire shredders and some allotment societies have their own. If using a shredder, then be considerate – they can be very noisy. Take care not to replace one nuisance with another.

You can obtain compost bins cheaply via the IW Council’s get.composting.com website, or by calling 0844 571 4444. (Currently compost bins are retailing at under £20!)

Recycling.

Household waste should certainly not be burned on a bonfire. Many items can be recycled; find out about recycling facilities from your local council offices. Garden waste should not be mixed with household waste. The refuse collectors may not take your refuse if it contains garden waste. They will not take furniture, carpet or builder’s rubble. Waste can be taken to the local amenity site if you have your own transport or you can purchase special bags from the council which will be taken by the normal refuse collection. There are local contractors who will take rubbish to the tip for a reasonable charge. Old beds, mattresses and sofas should never be burned. There are local charity groups who will collect, refurbish and recycle old furniture for re-use in the community.

Bonfires and the Law

It is a common misconception that there are specific byelaws to prohibit bonfires – there aren’t. An outright ban would be difficult to enforce and very occasionally a bonfire is the best practicable way to dispose of garden waste. If used sensitively, the occasional bonfire should not cause a major problem. However, where a neighbour is causing a problem by burning rubbish, the law is on your side.

Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990

Under this act, a statutory nuisance includes “smoke, fumes or gasses emitted from premises so as to be prejudicial to health or a nuisance”. In practice, to be considered a statutory nuisance, a bonfire would have to be a persistent problem, interfering substantially with your well being, comfort or enjoyment of your property.

If bothered by smoke, approach your neighbour and explain the problem. You might feel awkward, but they may not be aware of the distress they are causing and it will hopefully make them more considerate in the future. If this fails, contact the Environmental Health Department (tel. 823000) . They must investigate your complaint and can issue a nuisance abatement notice under the EPA. The Act also allows you to take private action in the magistrate’s court. If your neighbour’s fire is only occasional it is unlikely to be considered a nuisance in law. Similarly, if you are being troubled by bonfires from different neighbours, each only burning occasionally, a nuisance action would be difficult as there are several offenders. In this situation encourage them to consider the alternatives.

Highways Act 1980

Finally, under the Highways Act 1980, anyone lighting a fire and allowing smoke to drift across a road faces a fine if it endangers traffic. In this case it is the Police you need to contact as they enforce this Act and not the Local Council.

Barbeques.

Barbeques can also cause a smoke problem – especially if you use lighter fuel. If the weather is still and sunny, a barbeque will contribute to photochemical smog (this is formed in the summer, by the action of sunlight on pollutants). Again, be considerate. If you are having a barbeque – tell your neighbours. Don’t ignite it when they have hung their washing out, and if it is windy check that smoke won’t blow straight into neighbouring properties.

…But I like Bonfires.

A bonfire can be a convenient way of getting rid of a large amount of waste, or perhaps you want a bonfire just for fun, on Guy Fawkes night for instance. If a bonfire is the most practicable and environmentally friendly way to dispose of dry garden waste (for example, diseased plant material that cannot be composted) warn your neighbours – they are much less likely to complain. Remember that bonfire and barbeque parties can cause noise nuisance as well as smoke.

Bonfire Guidelines.

If a bonfire is the best practicable option for disposing of garden waste, follow these guidelines and the chances are you won’t annoy your neighbours or cause a serious nuisance.

·         Only burn dry material.

·         Never burn household rubbish, rubber tyres or anything containing plastic, foam or paint.

·         Never use old engine oil, meths or petrol to light the fire or encourage it.

·         Avoid lighting a fire in unsuitable weather conditions – smoke hangs in the air on damp, still days and in the evening. If it is windy, smoke may be blown into neighbour’s gardens and across roads.

·         Avoid burning at weekends and on bank holidays when people want to enjoy their gardens.

·         Avoid burning when air pollution in your area is high or very high. This information is given in weather forecasts or you can check by ringing 0800 556677.

·         Never leave a fire unattended or leave it to smoulder – douse it with water if necessary

 Also last month:

·         I have suggested that the IW Council investigates ensuring that all IW Councillors are police checked, owing to the extent councillors have in dealing with issues that involve safeguarding and liaising potentially with vulnerable residents. Within many jobs, where there is a similar interface between individuals and potentially vulnerable residents, it is taken as read that police checks apply.  At the moment this is not a statutory requirement.  I believe this should be!  Please let me know your thoughts.

·         I joined Andrew Turner at his summer surgery held in Gurnard.  Issues I discussed with the MP included the Place Road Planning Application and closure of the Coastal Path.

·         Residents raised concerns and made suggestions on future use of the former Gurnard School playing field & orchard.

·         Dropped kerbs for pedestrians in Park Road, Cowes has received a favourable response to Community Highways Funding.

·         A large number of issues which I’ve taken up with Southern Water remains unresolved.  Disappointed with this reaction, I am attempting to arrange a face to face meeting to ensure these matters are fully addressed

·         I received a request from a resident to make Cockleton Lane a one way traffic route. Before I consider supporting such a proposal, I can advise this will only be pursued if I am convinced there is overwhelming support from residents to do so.

·         I’ve requested hedgerows on routes to schools are trimmed back prior to term starting.  

·         I have attended two further Executive Advisory Committees, an IW Association of Local Council’s Meeting, the inaugural meeting of the Community Highways Fund Group, and a meeting of the AONB Partnership.

IW Councillors Report: August 2014

Surgeries:

6-6:30pm, Thursday 31^st July, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11:30am, Tuesday 12^th August, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

5:30-6:30pm, Thursday 28^th August, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

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

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

Place Road Planning Application: REFUSED.

Fantastic News!  The Application to develop 86 new homes between Place Road and Tuttons Hill, was refused by the Planning Committee 5 votes (Cllrs. Eccles, Hollis, Howe, Nicholson, Whitby-Smith) to 1, (Cllr. Barry) with 1 councillor (Cllr. Baker-Smith) abstaining. This decision was taken following advice from officers who recommended this application was approved.

Many thanks to all residents who made formal comments, protested and attended the hearing.  My grateful thanks to Greg Malone & Cllr Sean Harrison from Gurnard Parish Council for speaking so passionately at the hearing. The end result being worth the hard work that so many contributed towards.  Your hard work and dedication to our local community, (especially to those involved with the Gurnard Neighbourhood Plan) is very much appreciated!

The reason given for refusing the application, was Planning Committee members felt land between Place Road and Tuttons Hill was not felt to be ‘appropriate land’ given its intrinsic value as a green gap between Cowes and Gurnard.  This was outlined as being the most sustainable reason for turning this application down.

As with all Planning Applications that are refused, the applicant maintains the right to appeal against the Committee’s decision to the Planning Inspectorate.

My full transcript features in the special article below!

As ward councillor, I’m representing Cowes and Gurnard’s residents overwhelming opposition to this Planning Application.

Since 2011 residents have clearly put forward consistent and sustainable reasons why the Jordan Valley must be safeguarded as a wildlife corridor and strategic green gap between both communities.  Residents are conscious of the threat of settlement coalescence and some members of this Planning Committee will have seen how the settlement boundary and green gap continues to be nibbled away at by successive planning applications.

Contrary to the statement in Para 6.23, the watercourse that runs through this site is not the ‘Woodvale Stream’, it is in fact the River Jordan. When residents state they wish to see the Jordan Valley safeguarded they clearly see the Jordan Valley as the Green Gap that starts at Place Road and ends at Woodvale Road and encompasses all in-between.  Ask any resident of Gurnard, or resident living adjacent to this site, if you do not believe me!

This is reinforced by consultation through surveys, public meetings, Planning For Real Exhibitions, more surveys and most recently a Housing Needs Survey which resulted in a 60% response rate.  This evidence is robust because local residents want greater control in shaping their destiny through localism.

As a Planning Committee member for 11 years I don’t always agree with officers, and I do understand Governments presumption in favour of development.  However in this case, having read all 511 comments on-line, I know the recommendation for approval is overwhelmingly wrong! 

Since 1995, I’ve never seen a housing application that’s been opposed so vehemently.  If approved, what we will see is a new settlement being shoehorned into the strategic green gap separating Cowes from Gurnard.

I remind members of NPPF’s 12 overarching principles. In this instance most relevant are two principles, the first which empower local people to shape their surroundings, through local plans whilst the second protects the status of Green Gaps.

On access, there is reference to the capacity of the Roundhouse junction.  Of concern is the statement that there is no clear engineering solution to futureproof this junction.

No mention is made that the junction with Newport Road at Nodes Road, is at capacity, according to the MVAP Discussion Document. Why?

Furthermore, there is acceptance by officers that no consideration has been given to the redevelopment of the former Readers Site 200m south. Why?

What doesn’t feature in your report are the extensive studies undertaken by Gurnard’s Neighbourhood Plan Steering Committee. This evidence was reinforced by Cowes Town Council, which acknowledged some housing need, but went on to state that 91% residents felt the green gap between Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood is important should be protected.

In your report it is noted that brown field sites do exist, both in Gurnard and elsewhere within the Medina Valley. Surely this land and more ‘appropriate’ green field sites should be considered before developing on this green land?

A number of Gurnard’s Steering Committee has stated to me, what is the point of engaging on a one to one basis with residents, when Gurnard’s feedback is totally disregarded in favour of out of date evidence from seven years ago, and a desktop study!  These residents feel upset and very much let down by Planners who seemingly fail to acknowledge their efforts.

I know our officer’s decision is very much on balance.

Planning Committee members, will judge officers views with the feedback from our local community, particularly on whether any principle of development on this land is considered appropriate.

I ask members to support the hundreds of residents who feel this strategic green gap to be ‘not appropriate’, land within the context of SP1- Highlighted in Paragraph 6.22 of your report.

I ask that consideration is given to Cowes Town Council, Gurnard Parish Council, Northwood Parish Council, The CPRE, Islandwatch, the Island MP… Me, in supporting this land is ‘not appropriate’.

I ask members to consider localism, and do they want to see an application approved where there has been no engagement by the applicant with the community that will be impacted upon.

I ask that consideration is given to fact this application contradicts Gurnard’s Housing Needs Survey, it flies in the face of NPPF Policies relating to Local Empowerment, and protection of green gaps and finally the size and scale of this proposal, in this location is overkill.  

This IS an important application not only for Gurnard, but for Cowes and the wider community who have high expectations of localism and how we as Councillors embrace this and empower our communities. I therefore ask the Committee to REFUSE this application, due to it being contrary to Policy SP1, SP5 and DM13.

Cllr Paul Fuller, IW Councillor for Cowes West & Gurnard.  22^nd July 2014.

Worsley Road Development.

The decision notice for 15 dwellings at land rear of 44 Worsley Road has now been signed.  This means that work can now start on developing this site.

Planning Applications: Navitus Bay.

The Planning Inspectorate are in the process of considering the application to provide up to 194 (5,6 or 8MW) off-shore wind turbines 17.3km south of The Needles and 14.4km from Durlston Head, Dorset. The maximum tip height of the turbines would be 200m.

The applicant states if approved, the wind farm would produce energy equivalent to that used by 710,000 homes.

As consultee, The IW Council’s Planning Committee supported in principle the proposal. The Committee requested further information from the applicant on the potential impact upon noise and the ecology.   

Planning Applications: Asda and The Range.

Despite concerns by businesses, the Planning Committee approved use of two sites south of Newport for a new supermarket. 

Following this decision, the application for The Range, Place has been signed off.  This follows representations from Planners that objections raised by neighbours were not sustainable should the decision be appealed.

MP’s Surgery

I will join Andrew Turner MP who will be holding his Summer Surgery’s on the following dates:

11:45-12 noon, Tuesday 12^th August:  Village Clock, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

12:10-12:40pm, Tuesday 12^th August: Co-Op, Terminus Road, Cowes.

Coastal Access Act Update.

There has been some good news for ramblers.  DEFRA has now agreed to include the Isle of Wight in the Coastal Access Act.  I made comments on behalf of local residents back in 2012, which supported views of the Ramblers Association to include the Island. I am thrilled to bits the Coastal Path will receive the support now that it deserves!!

Many thanks to those residents who also campaigned to DEFRA for this!

Environmental Health Issues:

Bonfires.

With the hot days and warm evenings, I continue to receive phone calls from irate residents complaining about bonfires. In most cases they tend to be resolved following a quick telephone call.  In many cases neighbours, do not realise they are causing a problem until they are told about this!!

In Baring Road, last month I received calls from residents regarding bonfires.  This did cause some problems for residents of a nearby Residential Care Home, however following calls from Environmental Health these fires were extinguished…

Seagulls.

I’m advised by Environmental Health, that it has again been necessary for the IW Council to write to residents in Tilbury Road, Gurnard following complaints of gulls fouling on clean washing and cars.

The advice I received from the RSPB several years ago, when I last reported this was that it is helpful, if residents could acquire feed dispensers, rather than scatter waste food etc. These are helpful insofar as these discourage larger herring gulls who are a predatory and are a dominant species.

Highways: IW Councillors meeting with Island Roads.

Myself, Councillors. Nicholson and Peacey-Wilcox met with Island Roads last month.  Action Points from the meeting were:

·         The Traffic Management Plan for Cowes Week would be circulated to All Cowes Members & Town/ Parish Councils.

·         Island Roads were in the process of ensuring all existing Traffic Orders were legitimate. Therefore no new orders were likely to be implemented until March 2015.

·         Further discussion would take place between IW Councillors, Cowes Town Council, Cowes Business Association and Island Roads to reinstate the bollards in Cowes High Street. Island Roads were investigating the serviceability of the bollards. If there was an additional cost implication this would be referred back to the Town Council and Business Association.

·         The Gratings in Cowes High Street were being investigated, this follows them becoming corroded and filled.  These would be repaired, whilst the section between Fountain Quay and Terminus Road replaced this Autumn.

·         There continues to be an issue with responsibility over certain Grass Verges, these continue to be monitored and assessed.

·         Island Roads were working with Scaffolders to ensure best practice was followed.   

Sea Wall Maintenance, Gurnard.

In the last few weeks, both myself and the IW Council have received calls regarding works being undertaken on the beach between Gurnard Sailing Club and Gurnard Marsh.

Earlier this year a number of Solent View Road residents did let me know that work was due to take place to repair sea frontages, which became damaged during winter storms.   These residents did advise that this maintenance had received necessary consents from the IW Council’s Coastal Protection department and from Park and Beaches.  

Since receiving calls, I understand the work continues to be monitored by officers.  

In the last month.

·         I’ve attended Full Council, 2 Planning Committee Meetings (and site visits), 2 Exec. Advisory Committees (Children’s Service and Adult Health/ Community Wellbeing) and the latest meeting of the IW Association of Local Councils

·         I’ve requested dropped kerbs to be considered for Park Road.  Funding for this may be accessed through the Highways Contingency Fund.

·         A second meeting with Marsh Road residents was held.  Flood Defence Information will be circulated to householders, whilst a grant to repair and reinstate the seawall at Marsh Road has been applied for.

·         I responded to the consultation for local Area Action Plan. My response can be found at paulfullercc.blogspot.com

·         Gurnard Parish Council are arranging a meeting with the landowners to discuss the future of the coastal path.

·         Parks & Beach are due to replace signage prohibiting dogs off leads on Gurnard Beach.

·         The police have offered to step up patrols on Gurnard Beach following complaints from residents.

·         I’ve received training on loans and investments that the IW Council undertakes, as a member of the Audit Committee, received training on school transport, Emergency Planning and helped organise the Annual Planning Site Visit for members of the Planning Committee.  

·         Cowes Town Council will consider a new litter bin for Blackberry Lane, following funding being unavailable via the IWC.

·         Whitepit Lane will have a new off-licence following a Licencing Committee I attended.  The objector failed to appear!!

·         I’ve taken up concerns raised over the transferral of the freehold at Cowes Enterprise College to Ormiston Academies Trust, with IW Council leader Cllr. Ian Stephens.