Minutes - Canford Heath East and West, Creekmoor and Oakdale Area Committee - 21 November 2007

BOROUGH OF POOLE

CANFORD HEATH EAST AND WEST, CREEKMOOR AND OAKDALE AREA COMMITTEE

21 NOVEMBER 2007

The Meeting commenced at 7:00pm and concluded at 9:06pm.

Present:

Councillor Mrs Walton (Chairman)

Councillors Adams, Burden, Curtis, Gillard and Matthews

Councillor Brian Leverett – Leader of Poole Borough Council

Also present:

Steve Dean, Transportation Services

Jez Martin, Leisure Services

Nick Woods, Leisure Services

Pam Papani, Principal Democratic Support Officer, Legal and Democratic Services

Members of the public present: 21

CHE14.07APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Allen, Mrs Moore, Mrs Butt and Rampton.

CHE15.07MINUTES

RESOLVED that the Minutes of the Meeting held on 12th September 2007 be approved as a correct record subject to the following amendment:-

Minute CHE13.07 (6) delete the words “Verity Crescent failed” and insert the words “Wimborne Road turning right into Dorchester Road”.

CHE16.07DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

None.

CHE17.07MEDIUM TERM FINANCIAL PLAN 2008-2011

The Chairman welcomed Councillor Leverett, Leader of the Council, to the Meeting and invited him to give his Presentation.

Councillor Leverett stated that, as part of the Council’s consultation process on the Budget and Council Tax setting, he was attending each Area Committee to explain how the budget was formulated and to make residents aware of the pressures which would be faced by the Council next year.

He explained that this year’s Comprehensive Spending Review would affect all residents and the Local Government Association had intimated that this year’s settlement would be the worst for 10 years. The Council had, at the present time, to second guess how much money it would receive as the final decision on the Settlement would not be known for at least another month. He stated that good foundations had been laid for the future but currently only 27% of Poole’s net budget was funded by Government compared to the National average of 52%. This was grossly unfair and that was the reason why the Council had been fighting for fairer funding. Furthermore, other factors had to be taken account of, such as:-

the demographic impact and above inflation costs affecting Social Services
Landfill and LATS penalties impacting on waste
National Concessionary Fares Scheme
Business as usual, e.g., Equal Pay, Annual Pay Award etc.

It was vital to recognise that financial stability was an important element of maintaining and improving service performance and that Council tax needed to be set at a reasonable level in terms of both the level of services received by residents and the amount of tax Council taxpayers were asked to pay. The Medium Term Financial Plan indicated Council tax rises of 5% might be necessary without greater increases in Government funding. He then outlined the Medium Term Financial Plan 2008/9 and the increased budget demand for:-

Social Services - £627,000
Concessionary Fares (current year and inflation) - £497,000
Waste £248,000

Total £1.372Million

Increased income would achieve £1,390M offset against major growth items in 2008/09 in respect of :-

(a) Pay and prices

(b) Elderly (Social Services)

(c)Waste

These factors gave a revised additional budget requirement of £6,216,000 in 2008/09 with a funding gap of £2,478,000. He advised that there would be similar demands in future years and uncertainties such as:-

(d)Equal Pay per annum

(e)National Concessionary Fares Scheme

(f)Special Needs Children – DSG

Finally he outlined the ambitious programme of the Council to deliver major projects such as:-

(g)Full Sail Ahead

(h)Schools for the Future

(i)Fourways

(j)Town Centre North

(k)ICT

(l)Maintenance (“Pride in Poole”)

(m)Transport

(n)Affordable Housing

(o)MRF & Hatchpond

The Chairman thanked Councillor Leverett for his Presentation and asked if any members of the public present had any questions and the Leader answered general questions and further explained his presentation in response to points raised by those present at the Meeting.

The following point was raised:-

Mr Hall asked if the Council was still making representations to Central Government in respect of grants. Councillor Leverett responded that the Borough of Poole was doing everything it could to keep up the pressure. Robert Syms MP had put Poole’s case to the House. The pressure needed to be kept up.

CHE18.07PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS ON LONGMEADOW LANE, PARR’S PLANTATION, SHERBORN OPEN SPACE AND LONGFLEET DRIVE

The Report of the Head of Leisure Services was presented by Jez Martin.

He explained that it was the intention to fund these projects from the Dorset Heathlands Interim Planning Framework which collected money for each new additional home built in the Poole-Bournemouth and area conurbation. This money was then spent on projects that would contribute to alleviating human pressure on heathlands designated as Special Areas for Conservation and/or Special Protected Areas. Organisations were able to prepare projects to bid for this money, and as these projects had to be assessed externally in relation to proposals from others, there was no guarantee that any or all the projects would be funded. Decisions were taken by a Committee comprising a Councillor from each local authority, and representatives from RSPB, Natural England and National House Builders Federation. The Committee would meet next on 18th January 2008.

The following proposals would facilitate public use of open spaces throughout the year encouraging active lifestyles as per Corporate Objective of ‘promoting health and wellbeing’ and also fit with the Open Spaces Strategy aim of “Recognise the special contribution that open space makes to the culture and quality of life in Poole, and promote more use and enjoyment, ensuring that the community derived maximum benefits from the assets and resources that it owns”.

Longmeadow Lane

The proposed work entailed clearing of the dense cover of rhododendron and laurel in the woodlands, pond creation, path improvements and way marking, tree thinning and new planting, installation of new woodland theme play equipment (details of the types of equipment yet to be decided) and shelter, bins and possible acquisition of privately owned land.

Parrs Plantation

The proposal was to install new woodland theme play equipment (details of the types of equipment yet to be decided), shelters and safety surfaces. This idea was first put forward a few years ago, but not carried out due to lack of finance.

Sherborn Open Space

There was an existing skate/wheeled play ramp, which had proved very popular. The present equipment would be replaced by more varied and interesting sound proofed ramps and a soil based BMX area to one side, Benches, signs and bins would be provided.

Provision of a circular path around the site for dog walkers, improvements to car parking and any possibilities for other types of on site facilities would be considered at a later date.

Longfleet Drive

Over the last few winters a programme of opening up this site and removing the bulk of the dense stands of rhododendron had taken place. The proposal was to continue this vegetation management work, and to include more thinning of pine trees in area off Sandhills Close, the creation of new gravel paths, installation of more bins, interpretation panels, fingerpost, a bench and fencing to deter anti-social behaviour.

It was noted that some of this work may be funded from other sources if the bid for Dorset Heathlands Interim Framework monies proved unsuccessful.

These above proposals were intended to improve the public’s enjoyment and use of these open spaces. This work would also help to reduce pressure of use on near by designated heathland nature reserves, thus complying with the Council’s legal obligation to these sites.

With regard to Sherborn Open Space, Councillor Curtis asked that consideration be given to the provision of additional parking in this location. Jez Martin undertook to look at the implications of this request. It was also noted that Longmeadow Lane, Parrs Plantation, Sherborn Open Space would be subject to a full public consultation exercise.

RESOLVED that the proposals for the Open Spaces set out in the Report of the Head of Leisure Services, together with the Site Specific Consultation for each site be approved unanimously.

CHE19.07LONGFLEET DRIVE, OPEN SPACE LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT

The Report of the Head of Leisure Services, together with layout plans were circulated at the Meeting. Nick Woods apologised for the delay in producing this Report which had been largely due to many changes that had needed to be incorporated. A local resident expressed the view that there was not sufficient time to look at the report this evening and the matter should be deferred to enable all concerned to fully consider the proposals.

Councillor Matthews acknowledged the hard work that had been put in by the Officers but felt that in order to give residents and the Committee time to consider the proposals in full, the matter should be deferred to the next meeting. It was proposed and seconded that the matter be deferred to the meeting on 2 January 2007.

RESOLVED accordingly.

CHE20.07AD ASTRA FIRST SCHOOL 20 MILE PER HOUR AND SCHOOL ZONES

Steve Dean, Transportation Services, presented the Report of the Head of Transportation Services which proposed a School Zone in Sherborn Crescent and a 20 mile per hour Zone to cover Yeatminster Road and Puddletown Crescent, all roads in close proximity to Ad Astra First School.

On 13 November 2003, the Transportation Advisory Group (TAG) had approved a study to implement a strategy for establishing 20mph speed limits outside schools. The results of the study were presented to the 14 April 2005 Meeting of the TAG where Members approved a list prioritising 20mph zones for all 42 schools in the Borough.

Implementation of a 20mph zone for each school was prioritised on the basis of:

(a)School Travel Plans, in order that these zones could be built into a holistic approach to school travel issues. Such plans were a demonstration of collaborative working and their existence attracted additional Government funding;

(b)The Child casualty record outside schools; and

(c)The appropriateness of such a zone to the school(s) location including the linking of school sites in close proximity.

A programme of work had been developed which was currently funded from the “Delivering Accessibility” section of the Local Transport Plan budget.

On 20 September 2007, TAG had approved an alternative approach for schools near roads for which a 20mph zone would be inappropriate. In these locations it was agreed that a “School Zone” could be created. This could comprise an entry treatment on each approach to the school, including signs advising motorists to slow down. The use of timer activated signs would be advantageous as these could be switched off when the school was not operating, to minimise the impact on local traffic at these times. The concept of school zones being recognisable would therefore be consistent throughout the Borough.

Proposals

It was now proposed that a School Zone be introduced in Sherborn Crescent, as the main access to Ad Astra First School. Additionally it was considered that a 20mph zone should be introduced in Yeatminster Road and Puddletown Crescent as many pupils walked through this estate and gained access to the school via a side entrance.

Because Sherborn Crescent was an important bus route, and also carried considerable traffic, it was considered that a school zone was more appropriate outside the school. The imposition of a 20mph Zone would require traffic calming using speed humps or tables, which were not recommended in this location.

For the School Zone in Sherborn Crescent, therefore, it was proposed to erect signs at the junction with Adastral Road. The other end of the zone, near Yeatminster Road, would be demarcated using a slight road narrowing, signs and buff coloured surfacing across the road. A “gateway” effect would then be created.

On the nearside, at each gateway, there would be a sign illuminated at the appropriate time warning motorists of the proximity of the school and to “SLOW DOWN”. These would be illuminated during school start and finish times and, although additional events could be programmed if desired.
On the offside a standard reflectorised sign would include some artwork designed by the children.

This school had a side access, reached via Yeatminster Road and a number of pupils used this side entrance as they travelled from the estate served by Yeatminster Road and Puddletown Crescent. It was therefore suggested that both these roads should be included within a 20mph zone. Such zones must be self-enforcing and to achieve this a raised table was proposed in Puddletown Crescent to slow traffic. In addition, buff surfacing was also proposed at important crossing points which linked a system of footpaths across the estate

The table in Puddletown Crescent would be designated by buff coloured surfacing across the carriageway. 20mph zone signs would be erected at the entrance to the Zone in Yeatminster Road.

Pupils from Ad Astra First School would be asked to enter a competition to provide artwork, which would be incorporated into the 20mph Zone and School Zone signs.

The 20mph Zone and associated road hump would need to be formally advertised. Any objections to this would be referred back to this Committee for consideration.

The estimated cost of works was £50,000, to be funded from the 2007/08 Capital Programme.

Councillor Curtis drew attention to some views expressed by Councillor Mrs Moore who could not be present and in doing so, stated he concurred with her views.

The main problems here were parking from school, football, parents and speeding traffic.
In principle she supported any measures that would help alleviate these problems.
Supported the proposed introduction of a School Zone in Sherborn Crescent.
Supported signage at the junction with Adastral Road.
Suggested that the other end of the Zone could be extended to include Herstone Close as parents park along Sherborn Crescent right up to this Close.
Motorists travelling along Sherborn Crescent from Canford Heath Road end were unaware that there was a school nearby until they turned the corner before Herstone Close.
More signage could be placed between Bovington and Herston Close so as to inform motorists that they should slow down for the School.
This would help with the speeding problem in Sherborn Crescent.

Councillor Matthews pointed out that this project straddled two Wards. He supported the School Zone in Sherborn Crescent and the 20mph Zone for Yeatminster Road. He considered that parking in Puddletown Crescent was the real issue. The School was being proactive in trying to get people to park in the Neighbourhood Centre. He supported the proposal for a crossing. Councillor Curtis indicated that a surface crossing in Canford Heath Road would assist with the access to the Neighbourhood Centre.

After discussion, it was –

RESOLVELD unanimously that

(i)the suggested School Zone in Sherborn Crescent and the 20mph Zone for Yeatminster Road and Puddletown Crescent, as detailed in the Report be approved;

(ii)authority be given to the Head of Transportation Services advertise the Traffic Regulation Order for the 20mph Zone and associated road humps.

CHE21.07TRAFFIC PANEL

Steve Dean, Transportation Services, presented the Report of the Head of Transportation Services and indicated that the Traffic Panel had met on 12 September 2007 and considered the following items in relation to this Area Committee:-

(i)Bader Road – request for yellow lines on the outside of the bend;

(ii)Sherborn Crescent – request for measures to reduce vehicle speeds;

(iii)Dorchester Road – concerns about speeding and parking between Oakdale Road and Hennings Park Road;

(iv)Enfield Crescent – consideration of a kerb extension at the ‘No Entry’ point; and

(v)Vicarage Road – concerns about safety on the bend by Shottsford Road.

The Traffic Panel’s recommendations on items iii), iv) and v) were approved under Delegated Powers.

However, Councillors Mrs Moore and Curtis did not agree with the Panel’s recommendations on Bader Road and Sherborn Crescent and requested that the Area Committee discuss these two items in more detail.

(i)Bader Road

Councillor Curtis?, on behalf of Councillor Mrs Moore, indicated that the resident who had requested the double yellow lines on the outside of the bend suffered badly from parents and residents parking outside her house and across her driveway. She was elderly with a very poorly husband and neither of them drove. The daughter visited daily and helped to care for the father. She was frequently unable to gain access to the drive due to parked cars. The house was adjacent to a road leading to a block of garages which exacerbated the parking problem. Due to the special circumstances at this location the nearby neighbours did not suffer from the same difficult situation. She requested that the residents have a white line outside the driveway to help prevent this unwanted parking problem.