IW Councillors Report October 2021

 

Surgeries:

 

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

5:30-6pm; Tuesday 5^th October, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am; Thursday 7^th October, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 13^th October, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11:30-12:30pm, Thursday 21^st October, Food Shack & Bar, Gurnard Pines, Gurnard. 

THIS SURGERY IS CANCELLED DUE TO ILLNESS.

10:30-11am, Thursday 28^th October, All Saints Church Coffee & Chat, Gurnard.

11:30am-12pm, Thursday 28^th October, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Speedwatch.

 

A very big thankyou to the volunteers involved with Speedwatch. 

 

So far events have been prioritised in Place Road, St. Mary’s Road and Worsley Road.  With regard to the data there is limited evidence to suggest that speeding is an issue in Worsley Road. However, in Place Road there were a number of incidents which have caused concern regarding the speed of traffic.  In response to this, I will be using feedback received to provide evidence to request better enforcement and action to reduce traffic speeds.

 

In October a further survey will take place in Park Road which I hope to join.

 

In the meantime concerning speeding traffic in Park Road, the lovely lollypop lady continues making Park Road safe at school times, but had to take time off in September due to sickness.  The patrol continues to be supported by Cowes Town Council and Cowes Primary School, whilst training continues to be provided by the IW Council.  On this I am making enquiries regarding the IW Council maintaining a pool of trained volunteers to assist during sickness and holidays.

 

Dog Bins.

 

I have received a number of complaints concerning dog owners disposing of household dog waste in bins.  When this happens, particularly with big dogs bins can over-fill quickly which impacts upon those living nearby and genuine dog walkers who the bins are provided for. 

 

Planning Applications:

 

·         Lower Church Road: 7 Dwellings, Land north of Gurnard Farm. Ref: 21/01492/OUT.

This application has been Refused.

 

·         Cockleton Lane: 6 Dwellings, Land south of Old School Meadow, Cockleton Lane.  Ref: 21/01747/FUL.

I undertook a letterdrop to 40 dwellings adjacent to this proposal to build six dwellings and create a permissive footpath link to ‘Meadow View’ in Place Road. The deadline for this proposal is 8^th October 2021 and was discussed by Gurnard Parish Council on 29^th September.

 

·         Place Road: 14 dwellings, Former Poultry Farm, Land adj. 77 Place Road. Ref: 20/02229/OUT.

A modified version of last year’s application to build 14 dwellings is currently being consulted upon.  The deadline for this application is 22^nd October 2021 and will be discussed by Gurnard Parish Council on 13^th October.

 

·         Pine Tree Close: Proposed single/two storey extension, Chase House. Ref: 21/01833/HOU

Following feedback this scheme has been revised. The deadline for comments is 22^nd October 2021.

 

Environmental Health Issues.

 

·         Security Lighting and Garden CCTV.

I continue to receive complaints regarding security lighting within gardens. If you have lighting, please can you ensure this is directed away from those living nearby as residents can find equipment invasive.

 

·         Helicopters.

This is the second complaint received this year regarding low flying helicopters.  Please note that all complaints should be directed to the Civil Aviation Authority at: https://www.caa.co.uk/Our-work/Make-a-report-or-complaint/ and not Environmental Health.

 

Solent View Road closure.

 

It will be necessary to close Solent View Road, as Southern Water have advised that a water main damaged by tree roots needs replacing. 

Southern IFCA group (Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority).  Visit: https://www.southern-ifca.gov.uk/

 

·         As the IW Council’s representative on the Southern IFCA group (Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority), concerns were expressed by high tech. hydraulic crab crushing vessels which seem to be having an adverse impact upon shellfish and marine life in waters around Lyme Bay, Dorset.  At the moment there is no legislation in place to inhibit these vessels from using this equipment. 

·         Since the last meeting, following concerns raised over tankers and cruise ships anchoring off the coast in  ‘marine protection areas’ steps are being taken to add these sensitive areas to Electronic mapping charts.  Contact is also being taken by the MMO to contact the International owners of vessels.

·         Elsewhere during the meeting discussions took place as to how drones are supporting the efforts and enforcement through SIFCA; An update was provided regarding the seagrass restoration scheme on the Beaulieu River, whilst concerns were expressed concerning the fact there is no cap in place for the disposal of dredgings near the Nab Tower.

 

Local Access Forum.

 

·         An update was provided on the West Wight Greenway.  This is (for those who don’t already know) a multi-use thoroughfare between Newport and Freshwater.   

·         Isle Access provided an update on disabled access to the Islands Rights Of Way network.  In addition support was requested to provide beach access to wheelchair users, whilst countryside seating and information on Islandwide public toilet opening times was requested.

·         Because of the wet and warm conditions of this summer overgrown rights of way are of concern.  Work has been carried out to improve access to America Wood.

·         Locally action was taken against Escooters.  Four people were arrested and private escooters were confiscated.

·         Access has been restricted to the beach at Thorness Bay.  This is due to residents flytipping rubbish at this location.  In response the road has been obstructed by a locked barrier.  However, I am advised that the Holiday Park has provided an access adjacent to the barrier to allow for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.  

 

Full Council

 

·         A petition was submitted querying Ryde Interchange and requesting the scheme is considered as part of the Planning process.  Unfortunately because the scheme is considered to be a highway scheme this is not necessary.  From the perspective of proposals, Cabinet has delayed its decision due to the consultation which took place during the summer, as a cabinet member I have spoken to campaigners at surgeries.   

·         A debate took place regarding the nomination of Newport for City status as part of next year’s Diamond Jubilee celebration.  From my perspective in supporting the proposal any costs for this bid are nominal and if Newport were to be successful there may be opportunities available to regenerate the Island’s County Town.

·         I have supported proposals to reconsider speed cameras which has been referred to the relevant scrutiny committee.

·         I supported the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill which is progressing through parliament.  

 

Top Tips from the Footprint Trust to help you keep Warm & Safe this Winter.

 

OFGEN has reported that for 15 million Energy Customers, Bills will increase as from 1^st October.  This follows an increase to the Fuel Cap which OFGEN negotiates with energy supplies

 

At the moment to counter these increases a number of independent search engines can help customers get the best deal. These include: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ and  http://www.uswitch.com/ Tel:  0800 688 8557

 

In addition to the above, The Footprint Trust advises:

 

·         Talk to your energy company.  Are you on the best deal? Can you get the £140 Warm Home Discount?

·         Keep safe in a power cut or water failure.  Join the free Priority Service Register call 0800 294 3259 or visit www.ssen.co.uk/psr/southernwater

·         Lag your water pipes

·         Save £200 per year on utility costs! Talk to the Warm Island team at the Footprint Trust on 01983 822282 or email: info@footprint-trust.co.uk.

·         Phone 0800 027 0800 and ask about the Watersure tariff if you have a disability or high water use due to illness.

·         Make sure your torch is charged, and you have spare batteries.

·         Keep a supply of tinned and non-perishable goods in case extreme weather prevents you going out to the shops

·         Make sure you have enough medicine; don’t leave re-ordering to the last minute.

·         Keep important phone numbers on your fridge.

 

Useful Helplines:

 

°         If you are worried about your Fuel Bills call The Footprint Trust on 01983 822282.

°         Islehelp for advice and information on benefits, money issues, rent concerns. Telephone: 01983 823859/ 823898;  Website: www.islehelp.me; Email: enquiries@iwcab.org.uk

°         Isle of Wight Council Covid-19 Support  Telephone: 01983 823600

°         Struggling on your pension? You may be entitled to more money. Pension Credit helpline 0800 991 234.

News from Cowes Medical Centre

We are pleased to be able to offer Pfizer booster vaccines and flu jabs available on the NHS for our patients ‘by appointment’. 

 We will contact patients as they become eligible for their booster.  Patients who meet the flu vaccination criteria below are eligible now.

Vaccinations are given to those at highest risk as directed by NHS England for safe and effective protection against the risk of COVID-19 and seasonal influenza.

A booster vaccine dose helps improve the protection you have from your first 2 doses of the vaccine.

Most people who can have a booster vaccine are also eligible for an annual flu vaccine.

NHS England advise that it is safe to have both vaccines at the same time.

Covid Booster – eligible patients

Flu Vaccination – eligible patients

at least 6 months after your second dose   ·         those aged 16 or over with a health condition in a clinical risk group   ·         those aged 50 years and over   ·         those in long-stay residential care homes   ·         carers aged 16 and over   ·         those aged 16 or over who live with someone who is immunocompromised   ·         frontline health and social care staff employed   ·         People who are pregnant and in 1 of the eligible groups above can also have a booster dose.

·          those aged 6 months to under 50 years in clinical risk groups*   ·         those aged 50 years and over   ·         those in long-stay residential care homes   ·         carers   ·         those aged 16 or over who live with someone who is immunocompromised   ·         frontline health and social care staff employed   ·         pregnant women

 

*Pre-school children aged 2 and 3 years old or home schooled children are given a flu vaccine by the Practice – school-aged children who attend school are given their flu vaccines by the school nurses.

 Most people will be offered a Pfizer booster vaccine, which means your booster may be different from the vaccines you had for your 1^st or 2^nd doses.  For patients who cannot have the Pfizer vaccine you may be offered an AstraZeneca vaccine, but this will be at a different time and likely to be a different venue due to delivery restrictions.

Planning and Housing Updates.

 

·         Through the Draft Island Planning Strategy, I have now attended most of the 43 Parish Council Meetings/ Library and Community Group Drop-Ins.  In this time, we have met over 600 residents who have offered feedback on the latest proposals for what will eventually (Spring 2023?) become the Island’s Planning Bible.

·         I am at the moment liaising with officers regarding ‘savings’ for next year’s budget.  Within Planning, there are few additional cuts the Planning Department can make as services are cut to the bone.  From my perspective despite being a discretionary function, I am reluctant to in any way touch planning enforcement which remains a corporate priority for the Alliance administration.

·         I am discussing altering my Cabinet position to transfer ‘housing’ to another cabinet role. This follows a perceived conflict of interest I have when talking to developers and housing providers.  I have asked to be able to use my role to increase engagement with local Town/ Parish and Community Councils. 

·         As Cabinet member (apart from the DIPS consultation) I had the opportunity to attend the Islands Expo Event at Wootton.  At the meeting I met a number of businesses and discussed the challenges involved exiting the Covid pandemic.

·         Discussions are ongoing in contending with the Island’s Housing crisis.  In response the IW Council are investigating options to deal with ongoing issues following evictions following the loss of 80% of private rentals.  One of the options being pursued is the use of modular homes.

·         With other Cabinet Members, I met with Vectis Housing.  In addition as part of the DIPS consultation I met with the Chairman of the Isle of Wights Agents and Architects Forum.

 

Also this month.

 ·         I have discussed concerns with a resident over ‘holiday use’ properties at Gurnard Pines.

·         Evidence is being gathered regarding the intended mediation over the Floating Bridge. It is hoped that following this course of action the long term future of the crossing can be agreed.

·         I have been approached by a number of residents who have contacted unable to meet with their Councillor.  Since the Jo Cox MP murder, Councillors no longer have to disclose where they live and in some cases contact can be difficult.

·         I have contacted officers to discuss transferring ‘IW Council assets’ to individuals.  This applies to a grass verge off of Baring Road and a notice board on Cowes Parade.

·         I’m still attempting to see the grille removed from the Jordan culvert in Shore Road. This follows flooding from storm water.

Isle of Wight Councillor's Report: September 2021

 

Surgeries:

 

10:30-11am, Thursday 2^nd September, Gurnard Press, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 8^th September, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10-11:30am, Monday 13^th September, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes. (With Island Plan Drop-In)

11-12pm, Thursday 16^th September, Food Shack & Bar, Gurnard Pines, Gurnard.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 29^th September, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

11-12pm, Thursday 30^th September, Eegon’s, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Planning Updates.

 

·         Lower Church Road. Ref: 21/01442/OUT

An application was received to develop land off Lower Church Road. This scheme is similar to a proposal from 2019, and was discussed by Gurnard Parish Council on 11^th August.  Because of concerns raised, I have contacted the case officer to call-in this application, should she be mindful of approving proposals.

 

The main reasons I have given for calling in these proposals are:

 

1 The Principle of any Development on this site;

2. Concerns over the proposal is outside the Development Strategy;

3. Concerns that the proposal does not constitute ‘sustainable’;

4. Alternative locations were outlined in the Gurnard Neighbourhood Plan.

5. The impact the proposal will have upon the landscape characteristic of Gurnard Farm, Rew Street and Cockleton Lane.

 

·         69 Solent View Road.

An Ecology Report has been requested for this application, before any decision notice is provided.  This follows concerns raised by neighbours.  In the meantime, I have been advised given the interest on this matter the Planning Chairman has arranged to visit the site.

 

·         Planning Enforcement Matters.

Following feedback, I continue to await a response concerning Planning Enforcement on land adjacent to the Stables in Woodvale Road.  In the meantime a modified plan for this dwelling on the privately owned section of Woodvale Road has been received from the Planners (Ref: 21/0555/FUL).

 

In addition to the above the Enforcement Team have been asked to investigate matters in The Avenue, Cockleton Lane and Hilton Road.

 

In the meantime, I continue to await updates on proposals for The Dottens.

 

Highways Issues.

 

·         Speeding Traffic.

Speedwatch volunteers will be monitoring traffic in Worsley Road following residents’ complaints. 

 

·         Place Road.

In addition the police have been asked to monitor traffic speeds in Place Road. This follows several recent traffic incidents, and advice from Island Roads who advised that a single 30mph limit for the road is not warranted.

 

Both myself and Cllr Nicholson have contacted Island Roads to advise of our concern following last years request. 

 

·         Highway Weeds and Grasscutting

Councillors continue to receive complaints from residents regarding the spread of weeds on pavements, roadsides and grass verges.  This follows cuts in last years’ budgets as well as Island Roads seeking alternatives in using glyphosate.  At the moment the man with the hoe is not seen to be fit for purpose. With respect to grass cutting (again incorporated within this year’s budget), amenity grass is now being cut at the statutory minimum levels specified by Government.

 

Please note hedgerows have been cut in Cockleton Lane and Rew Street. Many thanks to our local farmers assisting!

 

·         Highway Signage.

I continue to await feedback regarding signage for Gurnard Shops and the Pub, and also The IW Community Club.  The site meeting which has been promised has yet to occur due to everybody seemingly being busy during August.

 

In the meantime, I have again requested redundant Primary/ Middle School signs.

 

Environmental Matters.

 

·         Following storms and an email of support from the EA, a request was made to Island Roads to remove the  Jordan culvert grill beneath Shore Road. This will allow for an increase of discharge from storm water thus reducing flood risk in the area.

 

·          I have been asked to intervene in a neighbourhood dispute in Rew Street.

 

·         Last month a meeting took place between the MP, the IW Council’s Cabinet and Southern Water following concerns raised regarding pollution and the impact this is having upon bathing water.  Following the meeting, Southern Water has offered assurances to colleagues of further investment to cope with ongoing issues.

 

·         Garden bonfires, security lighting, weekend DIY tomfoolery and Hot Tub parties(!!!) have all been reported to Environmental Health in Cowes and Gurnard last month.  Please if you are intending anything with the potential to upset your neighbours, talk to those nearby first.

 

·         Prior to the flooding last month, I contacted the highway drainage department of Island Roads to request gullies in Egypt Hill, Marsh Road, Solent View Road and Princes Esplanade was clear of debris.  In the meantime Southern Water have appealed to residents to keep drainage systems fat and wet wipe clear.

 

·         Cowes West and Gurnard topped the National League Tables of Covid 19 reinfection rates for a week during August.  Following a number of interviews, and reassurance that the IW Council had been offering support and advice to local businesses there has been a slight decrease.  However, levels are being scrutinised with further action taken as necessary.

 

Energy Bills.

 

OFGEN has reported that for 15 million Energy Customers, Bills will increase as from 1^st October.  This follows an increase to the Fuel Cap which OFGEN negotiates with energy supplies

 

At the moment to counter these increases a number of independent search engines can help customers get the best deal. These include: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ and  http://www.uswitch.com/ Tel:  0800 688 8557

 

Other Planning Issues this month:

 

·         I have spoken to, and look forward to meeting members of Chale Parish Council to discuss issues concerning creating a community hub to reachout to residents following the closure of the village shop in Chale Green.

·         A press release was issued in response to concerns raised by residents regarding staffing and responding to a backlog of enforcement cases, new planning applications, pre-application advice and staff sickness.  In response, the IW Council has recruited two members of staff.

·         I continue to work with Planning officers to resolve issues relating to the Accessible Living complex scheduled for Somerton Reservoir.

·         Enforcement Action has been taken up following approaches made to me at Wootton Creek, Fishbourne, Atherfield and Ryde. 

·         I am liaising with the local member concerning issues raised following an application’s approval in Godshill.

·         A meeting has been arranged to discuss a potential housing scheme in Nettlestone.

·         With other Cabinet members, I have discussed the merits of potentially resurrecting the Isle of Wight Building Preservation Trust to support buildings of heritage interest.

·         I have been approached by a representative of an Island Co-Housing initiative.

·         I hope to speak soon to the Chair of the Island’s Planning Agents Forum.

 

Draft Island Planning Strategy.

 

In the last few months my priority focus as Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing has been to accelerate the Island Planning Strategy for Consultation from 31st July until 1st October.  With no plan, Government would control the Planning process on the Island.

 

Apart from being the Planning bible for the Island for the next 15 years, within the Strategy there are targets requiring biodiversity net gain from development, designating green spaces, support for dark skies, the Island’s biosphere status and ensuring land is allocated for employment.  In addition there has been a reduction in housing numbers from 1045 to 486 dwellings per annum, less ambiguity regarding settlement boundaries and a desire to provide homes that are affordable to local people.

The Strategy has now been supported through Cabinet, and I am looking forward to taking this on the road this month.  This will afford the opportunity to listen to residents, local councillors, businesses and stakeholders. 

Island Planning Strategy Roadshow dates: September

01/09/2021	7 - 9pm	Bembridge Parish Council
02/09/2021	4 - 8pm	Brading Town Council
02/09/2021	7 - 9pm	Cowes Town Council
03/09/2021
04/09/2021	10am - 3pm	IWC Pop up shop, Newport
06/09/2021		Ryde TC
07/09/2021	10-11am 11:30-12:30pm	Brighstone Library (TBC) Freshwater Library (TBC)
07/09/2021	6.45pm 7pm 7pm	Freshwater Parish Council Chillerton & Gatcombe Parish Council Wootton Bridge Parish Council
08/09/2021	1:30-3pm	Ventnor Library (TBC)
08/09/2021	6:30pm 7.15pm	Chale Parish Council Shalfleet Parish Council
09/09/2021	10-11:30am 1:30-2:30pm	East Cowes Library (TBC) Niton Library (TBC)
09/09/2021	6pm	Nettlestone and Seaview Parish Council.
10/09/2021
11/09/2021	10am - 3pm	IWC Pop up shop, Newport
13/09/2021	10-11:30am 2-3:30pm 4-8pm	Cowes Library (TBC) Bembridge Library (TBC) St Helens Pop In and PC
14/09/2021	10:30-12pm 2-4pm	Freshwater Library (TBC) Ryde Library (TBC)
15/09/2021	7pm	Newchurch and Arreton
16/09/2021	6pm	East Cowes Town Council
17/09/2021
20/09/2021	10-11:30am 5:30-6:30pm	Shanklin Library (TBC) Sandown Town council
21/09/2021	10-11:30pm 1:30-3pm 3:30-5pm 6:30pm	Brading Centre Pop In Sandown Library (TBC) Ryde Library (TBC) Northwood Parish Council
22/09/2021	All day	Island Business Expo
23/09/2021
24/09/2021
27/09/2021	10-12pm 7.15pm	Ryde Library Niton & Whitwell Parish Council
28/09/2021	7:30pm	Brighstone Parish Council
29/09/2021
30/09/2021		Shanklin Town Council

 

Also this month:

 

·         Grass verges have been cut in Baring Road.

·         Action was taken following complaints received concerning an obscured parking place in Gurnard.

·         Action is due to be taken following damage to the water main from IW Council Trees in Solent View Road.

·         Tree works intended for a property in Woodvale Road has been rejected ‘on balance’ by the tree officer.

·         Clarification has been sought concerning the use of Assistance Dogs for the disabled.

·         More unruly e-scooter riders using scooters in Shooters Hill and Cowes High Street have been reported.

·         I have requested that the All Island Parking Review takes place sooner rather than later.

·         More graffiti was reported to Telecom cabinets in Cowes.  Wightfibre again responded promptly and cleared graffiti from both theirs and BT cabinets.

·         A metal ironwork was fixed in Nodes Road.

·         Please note there are less intrusive Track and Trace kits, these are available from pharmacies and NHS 101.