DORSET CYCLISTS NETWORK
Committee meeting held on Tuesday 24th November 2015
The Dorford Centre, Dorchester
1.Apologies from Judy Windwood, John Grantham, John Hayter
2.Minutes of the previous meeting were passed.
- Financial Report
Phil reported that with renewals now coming in, total in both accounts is £4826.30. He's had an enquiry from Bournemouth University re group membership – this is allowed given enough active cyclists, and Phil will follow up.
- Membership Report
Good news here. Jill Smith-Buckland and George Marsh of Christchurch have offered to take over as membership secretaries from Becky Windwood. They will meet with Michael and Becky in December to discuss.
- Branch Reports
Dilys (Blandford/Sturminster) has been campaigning for more cycle parking in Sturminster, and TC has offered £1500 funding but installation quoted at £1200! Dilys asked for DCN contribution in addition to her local budget of £100 (£300 agreed) and she will follow up other potential sponsors. Work on the Okeford to trailway link is going well.
Ken (Christchurch) said parking has been installed at three Wyevale Garden Centres. It's easier to find Council funding for off-road routes than on-road facilities. And he welcomed the suggestion of an expanded unitary authority to include East Dorset and Christchurch, as experience with the Poole and Bournempouth authorities has been good.
Peter (Sherborne) said more parking is now possible and a site has been identified. He will follow up with Kevin Humphreys.
Ken (Weymouth) reported on the Jurassica project – transport plan includes no private car access, but park and ride from Olympic site, with buses/cycles using Portland Port's road. Michael thanked Ken for 'care taking' the Weymouth/Portland co-ordinator role.
John (Purbeck) has had 4 new members and a good community of riders, but adds that Swanage is out on a limb – rides there are organised by U3A.
Michael added that Gravel Hill between Wimborne and Poole will be closed from next July for several months for major works, but cycles will still be allowed through, and a shared use pavement will be available afterwards. Redevelopment plans for Poole waterfront include cycle parking/hire facilities.
- Newsletter
Deadline for next newsletter is 1st April 2016, but Michael welcomes all submissions before then.
- Any other Business
Michael reminded the committee that he will be standing down in 18 months, and no candidate has so far come forward. Dilys suggested writing a proper job description, which might encourage candidates – she and Judy will write, liaising with Michael. Peter said that Dorset Police's Cycling Strategy includes (among some good ideas) a proposal for compulsory insurance for cyclists. He will draft a letter from DCN setting out our position.
8 Future meetings:
9 March, Wareham
1 September, Dorchester
2 November, Wareham
9 The meeting ended at 8.40pm