IW Councillors Report, June 2024

 

Surgeries.

4:30-5pm, Monday 3^rd June, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

10:30-11am, Thursday 6^th June, Gurnard Press and Bistro, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

3-3:30pm, Tuesday 11^th June, Northwood WI Hall, Newport Road, Northwood.

5:30-6pm, Wednesday 12^th June, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11am, Wednesday 19^th June, Benches adj. The Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Wednesday 19^th June, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

5-6pm, Wednesday 26^th June, The Portland, Worsley Road, Gurnard.

10:30-11:30am, Thursday 27^th June, Eegon’s Café, 85 High Street, Cowes. 

4:30-5pm, Monday 1^st July, Cowes Library, Beckford Road, Cowes.

 

General Election, Thursday 4^th July.

 

Polling Cards will be delivered by mid-June. The last date to register is Tuesday 18^th June, whilst the last dates for to apply for postal votes are 5pm, Wednesday 19^th June and for proxy votes are 5pm, Wednesday 26^th June.

 

Photographic identification is now required for elections. If you do not have this you can apply for a voter authority certificate from the IW Council call: 01983 821000, or visit: https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate

 

In Cowes West and Gurnard, two of my neighbouring Councillors Richard Quigley (Labour) and Nick Stuart (Lib-Dem) are prospective parliamentary candidates for our West Wight constituency against incumbent MP for the Isle of Wight, Bob Seely (Conservative). Also standing as candidates are Cameron Palin (Green) and Ian Pickering (Reform).

 

I personally am very pleased that from July the Island will have two MP’s rather than the one which I was successful in both my campaign for, and for where the boundary was eventually agreed. 

 

Island Planning Strategy.

 

At last! Full Council endorsed sending the strategy to the Planning Inspectorate.

 

This means updated policies, alongside lower housing figures can start being used when considering new planning applications.  For me this is brilliant, as I’ve spent a huge amount of time working cross-chamber to get the strategy accepted. Eventually at Full Council 27 members were in support, with 10 against.

A period of representation by the Planning Inspector, will commence following the election potentially from 8^th July  

 

Litter Bins.

 

If you have rubbish please ensure that you leave this in a bin that isn’t filled to bursting point. On occasions when this isn’t possible, please take your rubbish home with you.

 

In the past both in Gurnard, as well as Cowes wheelie bins were offered.  However, due to complaints of residents fly-tipping nearby and leaving household and commercial waste within these bins this practice was stopped. 

 

SGN, Gas Infrastructure works, Tuttons Hill.

 

Following feedback, I have been in touch with the IW Council and Island Roads following repairs to Gas infrastructure in Tuttons Hill. I am ever hopeful that the work will be completed soon. Because of the lack of statutory communication with myself, residents and businesses following works commencing, I have complained formally.

 

In response to Southern Gas, it is hoped that the work will conclude early allowing Church Road and Tuttons Hill to fully re-open.  In the meantime, I am pleased that the feared parking restriction for Worsley Road did not happen!

 

Empty Properties.

 

Do you know of empty properties? The IW Council holds a list of vacant homes, in the hope of bringing these back into use. Please let me know, so these can be reported!

 

Local Businesses.

 

In recent months, I have been approached by a number of shops, business and service providers many of whom continue to struggle since we all are tightening our belts.  Please note if we fail to use these, these could be lost forever!

 

Water Quality.

 

At Full Council last month, I supported proposals to lobby further regarding the water quality, particular offshore at Cowes and Gurnard. With my involvement in organisations such as SIFCA and the Solent Forum and discussions I have with the Marine Management Organisation and the Blue Marine Foundation this continues to be an area of real concern.

 

Last month myself and Cllr Quigley joined the demonstration co-ordinated by Surfers Against Sewage at Gurnard Green. 

 

An ageing Workforce?

 

One of the biggest challenges the Island faces in the years ahead, is the reduced numbers of young people available for recruitment to local businesses.  Following adoption of the Island Planning Strategy, I was contacted by one of the Island’s major employers requesting a further drill-down as to what the IW Council should do much more to ensure the Island is attractive for young families to live and work.

 

The worry that was outlined to me was the fact that the Island may be edging towards a tipping point where there is little support for an ageing population- hence, the economy no longer being sustainable.  This area of real concern was addressed also by last month’s Regeneration and Neighbourhood Policy and Scrutiny Committee.    

 

Water Bills.

 

OFWAT were due to consider proposals by Southern Water to increase customer bills by 91% this month. However, it was agreed to put off this decision and further consultation until after the General Election.

 

From my perspective, I have attended meetings with the water regular, where I have opposed the level of increase which Southern Water is requesting for investment in to infrastructure.  I hope to continue attending these meetings, In the meantime, please let me know your thoughts so these can be fed back. 

 

No Mow May.

 

Last month, I know a number of residents complained concerning the overgrowth of grass verges in Gurnard.  Island Roads advised me that because of work being undertaken by SGN in Cockleton Lane, they were unable to cut the winter growth in April.  As a consequence of Island Roads falling behind this year, and in light of complaints received they undertook their first cut mid-May.  As a result, I’ve received complaints regarding this.  Please let me know your thoughts!

 

Anti-Social Parking.

 

I have received complaints concerning vehicles being permanently parked, and the damage created by motorists parking on grass verges in Solent View Road.

 

Hedgehog Corner: 15 Fascinating facts about our hedgehog friends

 

1. Hedgehogs are nocturnal

2. They are called hedgehogs for a reason

3. Hedgehogs can hibernate

4. Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant

5. They weren’t always called hedgehogs

6. A hedgehog’s long snout is useful

7. Hedgehogs don’t use their eyes to hunt

8. There isn’t just one species of hedgehog

9. Hedgehogs have over 5000 spikes

10. Hedgehogs have intelligent self-protection

11. Hedgehogs self-anoint when stimulated

12. Hedgehogs are solitary creatures

13. A group of hedgehogs is called an array

14. Hedgehogs are a gardeners’ friend

15. Little legs walk far

 

Waste Services: Collection Plus.

 

The Collection Plus service allows you to have your domestic wheeled bins or reusable sacks collected from an agreed point on your property. This could be the side of your house, instead of being required to place them on the kerbside.

Collection Plus benefits residents who:

 

·         work away from home during the week

·         work irregular shift patterns

·         are second home owners

·         are elderly. (To note this service is offered at no charge to residents who are mobility impaired)

 

Apply at: https://www.iow.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste/additional-household-services/paid-for-waste-services/ or call waste services on 01983 823777. This service costs £69 per annum.

 

Full Council.

 

At Full Council, Cllr Claire Critchison (Green) stepped down as Chairman. Her replacements are Cllr Karl Love (Independent) and Deputy, Cllr Vanessa Churchman (Conservative).  Key positions were given to Cllr Warren Drew (Conservative), Planning;  Cllr. Joe Robertson, (Conservative) Chair of Scrutiny; Cllr. Paul Brading (Conservative), Chair of Children’s Services; Cllr Sarah Redrup (Lib-Dem) Chair of Adult Services/ Health and Cllr Nick Stuart (Lib-Dem) Chair of Neighbourhoods and Regeneration.  The Cabinet still comprises of eight (including me) Independent Councillors.

 

From my perspective the appointments made by Full Council highlights current cross-party working.

 

Report as Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding.

 

·         In the last month I have met with Bonchurch residents and discussed concerns over further landfalls and the desire to see a number of arterial roads in Ventnor reopened following landslips.

·         Following lobbying, officials are coming to the Island on 3^rd June to look at areas hit by flooding and coastal defence issues.  Because of elections both myself and local councillors have been told to stay away!

·         Flood (Section 19) reports were received regarding recent Floods that took place at Gunville. Of priority to authors of the report is the creation of a Flood Pan.  In addition, the IW Council were asked to improve sustainable drainage systems, improving drainage improvements at Forest Hills, Arthur Moody Drive and Ash Lane.

·         At the Gunville Flood meeting residents raised concerns over landowners/ farmers re-routing water courses. In addition sandbags (those not stolen by local builders) were taken away.  As a consequence of the meeting it is hoped that a facility could be utilised for the storage of sandbags at Gunville subject to agreement from Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council.  

·         The long delayed section 19 reports for Ryde, Brading and Cowes are still awaited.     

·         On Military Road, I have requested Ground Monitoring Equipment and cautionary signage to be improved between Brook and Compton.

·         Cautionary signage is also likely for Leeson Road, Bonchurch.  At the recent meeting I attended with residents at Ventnor, Island Roads advised Leeson Road would not open until later this year.  In the meantime work has started to repair damaged water mains following land movement at the Grabben and roads impacted by landslips and falling debris at Gills Cliff Road and Bath Road.

·         New Planning Policies for Health Service infrastructure and Sustainable Drainage Systems were adopted by Cabinet.

·         Advice was relayed concerning registering a Community Asset.

·         Following recent landslips, the Coastal footpath between Colwell and Totland has partially opened.

·         The new seawall at the Eastern Esplanade reopened to schedule on 24^th May.

·         I attended an Island Wetland Meeting, following complaints concerning over-abstraction of the Eastern Yar.  Also feedback was received over the perceived over-zealous use of the sluice gates by the RSPB at St. Helens.

·         In the last year, it was reported that there was a reduction in the numbers of planning applications.  

·         Discussions have taken place concerning extending the Wednesday Walk-In to developers.  Consideration is being given to opening up a bookable session for applicants.

·         Following her appointment to Chair Freshwater Parish Council, the lovely Cllr Emma Cox is to step down as IWALC’s representative at Planning Committee. Huge thanks to Emma who used her position to guide and support local Councils when dealing with contentious planning applicants.

·         As a result of the Bonchurch landslip, a number of trees have now been removed from Shanklin Beach.

·         With Cllr Ian Stephens meetings were arranged with housing providers, with a view to creating IW affordable housing. 

 

In a nutshell, last month:

 

·         A complaint has been made regarding a child being hit by a cyclist riding at speed through Cowes High Street.

·         I have contacted Southern Vectis to request closer connectivity to the Crossfield Estate and Gurnard following the partial closure of Park Road and the Roundhouse Bus Stop.

·         I have been requested to discuss options for the location for the positioning of the Car Park within the Gurnard SANG.

·         A resident has requested more soft landscaping (roadside trees!) to be considered in Cowes.

·         I am acting Chair to SIFCA, following the Chairman being required to stand down following recent elections.

·         I have requested updating of Beach Information Points, following noticing these were outdated regarding information.

·         A planning application has been requested by the Council following the location of a kiosk at the Horseshoe Inn Car Park. Whilst supportive of the kiosk, I understand Enforcement Officers are enacting this because of a complaint.

·         Anglian Home Improvements continue to upset residents through their relentless no cold calling. Following complaints Trading Standards are attempting to work with Anglian, who are looking toi avoid calling at doors displaying stickers.

·         I have been talking to adjoining landowners following a report of Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed in Gurnard.

·         A call was raised concerning supporting a vulnerable resident.

·         An orphaned barrier appeared on Gurnard revetment.  I am hoping to reacquaint the barrier with its family!

·         Cowes Town Council considered extending its term of office for Mayors beyond two years.  This I objected to, as I personally consider it important for the Town Council to have a regular turn-around of Mayors/ Chairs.

·         There was a backlash from the Tobacco Industry following smoke free initiatives being implemented by the IW Council.  This follows concerns regarding a disproportionate high levels of young people smoking on the Island. 

·         Complaints have been forwarded concerning traders on Princes Esplanade.  With respect to earlier perceived noise complaints, this continues to be monitored.  However, I am advised that because of the prevailing wind direction this has not been an issue for those living locally.

Isle of Wight Councillor's Report, May 2024

 

 

Surgeries.

 

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

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

3-3:30pm, Tuesday 14^th May, Village Hall, Newport Road, Northwood.

10:30-11am, Wednesday 15^th May, Benches adj. to Watersedge Kiosk, Shore Road, Gurnard.

11-11:30am, Wednesday 15^th May, The Woodvale, Princes Esplanade, Gurnard.

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

11-11:30pm, Thursday 30^th May, Eegons, 85 High Street, Cowes.

 

Cowes Flooding.

 

Last month saw some of the highest tides ever in Cowes.  I have spoken to a number of residents and business owners in the town and saw the devastated and heartbreaking impact this has had. 

 

Following feedback from businesses in the town sandbags were taken away, whilst the road sweeper visited the High Street to help cleanse our town centre   In addition, I heard contrary views concerning the cleansing of drains- which shopkeepers did not feel were effective. Thank you to businesses who worked together after the floods to reopen.  Also grateful thanks were relayed to Biffa, the Emergency Planning Team at the IW Council and Cowes Town Council for their support!

 

For those not signed up to Flood Warnings, visit Floodline at: https://www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings or alternatively, or call: 0345 988 1188.  Other agencies giving support include the National Flood Forum, please visit: https://nationalfloodforum.org.uk/ or call: 01299 403 055.

 

Empty Properties.

 

Do you know of empty properties?  The IW Council do hold a list of vacant homes, in the hope of bringing these back into use.  Please let me know, so these can be reported!

 

Planning Enforcement.

 

Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council, Ryde Town Council and Sandown Town Council have all confirmed that they wish to ‘buy-in’ additional planning enforcement support to tackle longstanding issues in these towns.  As a consequence over the two years this was in place, a number of buildings within Newport’s conservation area has seen investment to buildings resulting in new life in the town. 

 

I am talking to Officers to investigate whether more can be done to provide extra support for the smaller towns and parishes across the Island, as I fully appreciate the cost of funding staff for 1,2 or 3 days a week is prohibitive.

 

Planning Enforcement: Local Issues.

 

In the last 12 months, I’ve asked for follow up’s on nine different planning enforcement matters in our area.  One of the main issues being raised locally is the use of ‘ancillary’ outbuildings being utilised for residential use. Another issue raised by residents concern issues concerning trees, both being removed (from locations that have ground stability concerns), being planted and not being cared for. These concerns are under investigation at the moment.

 

Although the capacity within the Planning Enforcement Team has significantly increased under my term as the relevant Cabinet Member, with all the will in the world and dozens of planning approved each week with dozens more conditions, it isn’t always possible to monitor compliance. For this reason, the feedback that the Council receives concerning this remains so important!

 

Second Homes.

 

I have received feedback from second home owners concerned by Full Council’s decision to next year increase Council Tax by 200%. In response, the point is made that if the IW Council does not incur charges that could take place, any argument for future Government financial support would be difficult to justify.  Therefore, the Council’s hands are tied.

 

 

IW Councillors Annual Report.

 

My Annual Report is available, as an addition to the hard copy of this report. This is also available from Cowes Library.

 

Environmental Issues.

 

Following last month’s report, I have received more complaints regarding the fly tipping of Garden and Builders Waste on the public footpath CS3 which lies to the rear of Gurnard Heights.  In addition, I am also receiving feedback from residents who have noted the disposal of household waste, being transferred to litter bins. This is being monitored.

 

Elsewhere, I have requested that the Cross Street Car Park Wall is monitored for safety following concerns being highlighted. In addition, I also passed on concerns regarding graffiti which appeared on Cowes Parade.

 

Trees.

 

I am seeking an update from the Tree Team in updating Tree Preservation Orders.  It been brought to my attention that within parts of our ward TPO’s in some cases have not been updated for over 70 years.  In response to this, the next review when it takes place will be in Cowes.  Once notice is given, I look forward to working on this with our tree wardens.

 

Hedgehog Corner: 10 Top tips for encouraging hedgehogs in your neighbourhood.

 

1.    Link your Garden.

During their active season, hedgehogs roam between 1-2 km each night, so its critical they can access a wide range of gardens. 13x13cm square holes in walls and fences will let hedgehogs through but is too small for most pets.  You could also dig a channel underneath your fence to provide access.

 

2.    Make your Pond Safe.

Hedgehogs are adept swimmers, but they can’t climb out of steep sided ponds or pools and will drown. Use a pile of stones, a piece of wood or some chicken wire to create a simple ramp.

 

3.    Create a wild corner.

Let the plants go mad in a corner of your garden, and don’t cut them back in winter to let hedgehogs nest.  They’ll also benefit from the abundant insects. Use branches to add structure.

 

4.    Deal with netting and litter.

Hedgehogs are prone to getting tangled. Plastic drink can rings, elastic bands and netting are common offenders. Replace netting with a rigid structure or use a thick cordage and keep taut.  Sport and garden netting should be tied up or stored inside when not in use.

 

5.    Put out food and water.

Hedgehogs really benefit from extra food, using it to supplement their natural diet. Meaty cat or dog food are both suitable. Water can also be scarce at certain times of the year and is the only thing you should give them to drink.

 

6.    Stop using chemicals.

Lawn treatments reduce worm populations. Pesticides, insecticides and slug pellets are toxic and reduce hedgehogs’ creepy-crawly prey. They are all necessary in a healthy well managed garden. 

 

7.    Check before strimming.

Hedgehogs will not run away from the sound of a mower or strimmer –check before you cut to avoid causing horrific injuries or death.  Robotic lawnmowers also pose a risk to hedgehogs, so make sureto check areas thoroughly and don’t run them at night. Single hedgehogs are easily moved, but use gloves!  Moving a hedgehog family is more complicated and ideally they should be left undisturbed.  For advice call 01584 890801.

 

8.    Be careful with Bonfires.

Piles of debris are irresistible to a hedgehog looking for somewhere to hibernate or nest- build it on the day of burning or move the pile on the day of burning to avoid a tragic end.

 

9.    Make a home for hedgehogs.  

A log pile is one of the best features for encouraging all kinds of wildlife- and so easy to make.  It will encourage insects and provide nesting opportunities all year around.  Alternatively you can make your own DIY hedgehog house. For details visit: https://www.hedgehogstreet.org/help-hedgehogs/hedgehog-homes/

 

10.   Become a hedgehog Champion.

Register to join volunteers. Hedgehog Street provides resources to make your neighbourhood chock-a-block with hedgehogs. Visit: https://www.hedgehogstreet.org/about-our-hedgehog-street-campaign/who-are-the-hedgehog-champions/

 

Car Parking, Worsley Road.

 

I continue to receive complaints from drivers of large vehicles regarding the fact their thoroughfare is blocked by parked cars in Worsley Road, particularly between Gurnard Press and Westbrook Lane.

 

In response, drivers are appealing for double yellow lines to allow their vehicles to get into the village. To note, I know that deliveries, emergency vehicles as well as the bus cannot always get through, and whilst this is the case with the bus, I’m advised that the service could be withdrawn should the issue not be resolved. Understanding parking is at a premium, please could residents park tight to the pavement as this will often allow those valuable extra inches required to allow vehicles to squeeze through!

 

Emails and Confidentiality.

 

Legislation is intended to change concerning emails to those (including Councillors) in local Government.  From my perspective, I feel uncomfortable with this, as I have always advised that should residents contact me they do this, to my gmail.com address rather than through any .gov.uk domain.

 

The reason for me avoiding use of a gov.uk email account, is that I believe all emails I receive are private and confidential until the sender gives permission for those emails to be circulated to be any third party.  At the moment, if good reason is given (including freedom of information requests) any .gov.uk can be ‘considered’ by third parties.  This does not make me happy, particularly given the level of confidence, I am expected to uphold.

 

To note, should any resident want to make a freedom of information request, this can still happen.  However, I believe that I am strict on who see’s what and why!  With respect to Freedom of Information, I already circulate all information that should be distributed within the public domain.   

 

Cowes Foodbank.

 

This month the foodbank are requesting squash, long life juice, tinned spaghetti, sponge puddings, rice puddings, coffee, rice (1kg) and tinned vegetables.

 

Report as Chairman of Gurnard Parish Council.

 

·         I intend to make this my last Chairman’s Report on behalf of Gurnard Parish Council.  With potential changes being made within the IW Council, and with local elections pending for May 2025, I look forward to prioritising my efforts as Ward Councillor.  I would to thank Councillors, Richard our clerk and local residents for their support since 2022.   

·         Last month saw a public consultation weekend hosted by Gurnard Parish Council at the village hall.  Of interest to me was information on future plans by Southern Water to reconfigure grass verges to capture more surface water within Gurnard.  On this, I am ever hopeful that consultation will be improved upon from what occurred last year regarding the roll out of Waterbutts.  Following engagement, this could take place this Autumn.  Also of noting was news on Asian hornets, Gurnard In Bloom, Speed Reduction, the Cybercafe, the Gurnard Agriculture Project with and the IW Ambulance Service. A huge thank you to Vice-Chairman, Cllrs Penny Acton and Christine Bustin who led on this.

·         A very big thank you to volunteers who took part in April’s Village tidy up. Grateful thanks to Gary and Debbie Hall from Plaza for the Ice Creams.

·         Following recent complaints regarding Anti-Social parking in Worsley Road, signage is pending for the road’s verges.

·         Following feedback, I look forward to progressing suggestions made for the children’s play area on Gurnard Green.  After discussions residents that spoke to me were in favour of a proposed ‘open’ shelter for the Green alongside a swing and roundabout.

·         Could I please ask that residents exercising their doggies at Old School Meadow in Cockleton Lane, to please use the dog bin provided.  At the moment volunteers spend too much time picking up bags of poo, this is not fair on other dog walkers our volunteers or for children playing in the Meadow.

 

Report as Cabinet Member for Planning, Coastal Protection and Flooding.

 

·         It was agreed that funds for the local levy provided by the Southern Regional Flood & Coastal Committee can be rolled over for a further 12 months.  This follows commitments made prior to last year’s winter storms and the fact that ground conditions have not afforded schemes to move forward (for instance Flood Defence measures in Binstead).  Because of the intensity of issues facing the Island the Chair of the SRFCC is due to visit in the coming months.

·         One of the above schemes, in place is the Depaving Binstead to Reduce Storm Overflows.

·         A meeting was arranged to host the EA and the SRFCC visiting the Island to view the damage caused through flooding and recent landslides.

·         With Ventnor Town Councillors, I had the opportunity to view recent landslips at St. Lawrence.  In addition, following the site visit I spoke to a number of residents and businesses in Ventnor.

·         I am speaking to residents in Freshwater Bay concerning upgrading the retaining wall on the main road.

·         I met with Councillors from the Liberal Democrat group to address concerns over the Island Planning Strategy. As a consequence the group have removed their previous objections.

·         The application to develop Norris Castle was refused by the Planning committee in line with officers recommendation.

·         I met with residents from the Barton Estate to discuss concerns made regarding the Coastal Path.  A further meeting is pending with IW/ East Cowes Councillors.

·         At a public meeting, I met with residents of Gunville affected by flooding.  Although many residents are angry with the IW Council, a future meeting will be set up to give details of the Section 19 investigation due later this month.

·         I met with a resident affected by surface water drainage at Freshwater. On this, I am liaising with agencies.

·         With the Leader and Housing Cabinet, I met with a provider of energy efficient island affordable housing. The group’s focus is very much on supporting homes for key workers and whilst they work closely with local diocese.  Many of the homes the group (EMMA) develop are swift to construct.

·         After going out for consultation in Spring new planning documents have been issued to incorporate Sustainable Drainage Systems and Health Infrastructure.  These documents are due to be supported by May’s Cabinet Meeting.

·         Advice is being sought from local Council’s concerning Flood Plan templates.

 

Also this month, in a nutshell

 

·         A request was made to replace a drain cover on the revetment besides Gurnard Beach Huts.

·         Thank you for their positive feedback following last month’s report on anti-social parking on Worsley Road.

·         I received a positive response back regarding the tone of letters regarding parking enforcement in Cowes.

·         For those who missed renewing their IW Council Garden Waste subscription, please note that Onward Waste provides the same service at lower cost. For details, please call: 01983 632 205

·         I have requested action to be taken concerning the use of shipping containers.  Also, enforcement-wise, I am seeking clarity concerning the use of ‘ancillary’ outbuildings and chalets being used as residential properties.

·         I continue to liaise with our Environment officers on the fly tipping of building material and garden waste.

·         A complaint was relayed regarding rogue companies operating.

·         I have chased up a longstanding matter concerning the loss of a hedgerow in Pallance Road.

·         I am seeking clarity from the police on the opening times of Cowes Police Station.  This followed a resident approaching me involved in a traffic incident, not knowing how, where or when to report it.  I have requested that the Police’s website provides this information.

·         I continue to support residents involved in a particular neighbourhood dispute.

·         Full Council is this month to consider when to implement its new Committee System.  Because of the risks involved, and my fear that this will be implemented on the cheap, I support this being introduced in May 2025.  As I have stated before, the fact that there will only be four wide-ranging committee meeting on a two monthly basis, will in my mind mean the increased need for delegated decisions by officers.. In my opinion there should be eight committees meeting each 6-8 weeks.  Ultimately this will cost more money than the Cabinet model, but at the very least it affords the opportunity for all 39 councillors to step up.

·         Full Council is also to consider referring its planning bible to the Planning Inspector.  Should this be supported by Council, this will offer a further opportunity for consultation.  This will allow those opposed to aspects of the Plan to make representations direct to the Inspector.

·         A vacancy has arisen for a new clerk at Cowes Town Council. For details contact the Town Council on 01983 209022, or email: townclerk@cowestowncouncil.org.uk

·         A request was enacted to remove graffiti from Cowes Parade.

·         Further concerns were raised regarding the planting of leylandii trees adjacent to the Dottens.  These concerns are being evaluated by planning enforcement officers.