DOWNLANDS AREA FORUM MINUTES 12.07.06
Minutes of the meeting of
DOWNLANDS AREA FORUM
held on 12th July 2006
at Chieveley Village Hall and Recreation Centre, Chieveley
Present: GeorgeChandler(Chairman) (P), BarbaraAlexander(ViceChairman) (P), PaulBryant (P), KathleenFrench (P), DeniseGaines (P), GrahamJones (P), GordonLundie (A), JamesMole (AP), AndrewRowles (P), AnthonyStansfeld (P)
Also present: Nick Carter – Chief Executive, Melvyn May – Highways Manager, Neil Stacey – Project Engineer, Elaine Cox – Senior Rights Of Way Officer, Rachael Craggs – Community Safety Manager, Lee McQuade – Policy and Research Officer
Apologies for absence: Councillor James Mole, Thames Valley Police, Richard Benyon MP
PROGRAMME
COMMUNITY SESSION
Councillor George Chandler opened the meeting and informed the Forum that there would be an additional agenda item presenting the Campaign to Improve B4494 Road Safety Standards.
THAMES VALLEY POLICE
Rachael Craggs, Community Safety Manager at West Berkshire Council updated the Forum on Alcohol Designation Orders and the increased powers these embodied to confiscate alcohol and tackle anti-social behaviour. She apologised that due to delays in providing signage these powers had not yet been applicable but noted that sites had now been identified for the signs and that progress was likely soon.
The Forum received an update on Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAG’s) and was informed that it was anticipated designated neighbourhood areas would be identified soon, following careful consultation with local members of the community and the Police. She confirmed that consultation meetings would be held soon in order to identify the priorities of the community, which would then be problem-solved through the NAG’s.
Councillor Anthony Stansfeld, West Berkshire’s Member of the Thames Valley Police Authority, noted the increased crime figures in the area but was encouraged by the response of the Assistant Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police. He also welcomed the potential benefits from the uniformed presence of PCSO’s in West Berkshire.
In response to questions from the Forum, Rachael Craggs gave the following responses:
· Relating to Neighbourhood Action Group’s, the Forum was invited to suggest means to promote consultation meetings. It was anticipated that leaflet drops, newspaper adverts and shop notices would be used. Neighbourhood Watch schemes through the RingMaster system might also be involved.
· It was confirmed that complaints received through the NAG system would not be given priority over other forms of complaint but that NAG’s should encourage a better understanding of community concerns. Every Downlands village would be covered by a NAG.
· Referring to the increased crime figures, Rachael Craggs noted that after reaching a plateau in February figures had started to decrease. She suggested the development of NAG’s might have led to the increased reporting of crime and contributed to the increased crime rate.
HIGHWAYS IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME
Melvyn May, West Berkshire Council’s Highways Manager, outlined West Berkshire Council’s Highways Improvement Programme. The three maintenance categories into which roads are categorized were outlined in addition to the 2006/7 Capital and Revenue Spend for Highway Maintenance. These figures highlighted the increased investment in West Berkshire’s road network, the largest investment since 1998. The legal framework in which West Berkshire Council operates was summarized; West Berkshire Council having a duty to maintain highways at the public’s expense.
The maintenance hierarchy amongst the categories of roads and maintenance functions of the council were explored – these being reactive, routine and programmed. A description of what each function entailed was mentioned as were the means used to determine the overall condition of the highway network.
Melvyn May updated the Forum on the latest performance indicators which highlight dramatic performance improvements. It was noted that the improvement in performance between 2004 and 2005 was partially a consequence of a new survey methodology - which makes comparisons difficult - as well as the record investment in highways.
The presentation progressed to outline specific projects in the Highway Improvement Programme 2006/7 encompassed in the Downlands Area. Melvyn May concluded with details of where further information might be obtained.
Councillor George Chandler welcomed the increased investment in highway maintenance.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME
Neil Stacey, Project Engineer, delivered a presentation to the Forum on the Traffic Management Programme. He began by outlining the type of schemes managed in the programme, those dealing with what is on the road rather than the road per se. Recent schemes in the Downlands Area were discussed, including those schemes funded by the Forum. The local safety scheme on the B4494 was highlighted. Parish Councils were encouraged to identify schemes which might be funded by the Forum and highlight aspirations in the Parish Plans. The Forum was also informed of current work in progress and future programmed schemes.
The presentation outlined how schemes were identified and the assessments currently under way in the Downlands. Neil Stacey concluded with details of how the public might provide details for future schemes and report damage to traffic signs.
VEHICLE ACTIVATED SIGNS
Neil Stacey, Project Engineer, proceeded to give a presentation on Vehicle Activated Signs. The presentation began by outlining what Vehicle Activated Signs exactly are. Examples were provided and Neil Stacey highlighted how the signs work.
The Forum was informed of developments in West Berkshire. A draft VAS policy arose from a trial in Hungerford during 2005-6, this policy is being used to inform the provision of VAS signs across West Berkshire in 2006-7. The results of the consultation were discussed. In total 168 locations for VAS signs were suggested and 38 out of 62 Parish/Town Councils expressed an interest. However, Neil Stacey informed that a budget of £50,000 for the financial year 2006-7 limited the application of these signs to approximately 10, although this was a rough estimate. It was noted that Parish Councils may contribute and other budgets might also be used where VAS are part of a wider scheme.
The VAS policy and criteria were then explained to the Forum. The next steps in the process were also explored.
In response to questions from the floor, the following responses were provided:
· Neil Stacey confirmed that an unbiased list of priority sites would be produced. Funding from Parish Councils was welcome but the provision of funding would not override the policy and criteria used to determine the usefulness of a VAS in a certain area. VAS would not be placed where they are deemed to be less effective.
· Negotiations with suppliers were ongoing but it was hoped that work would start on certain sites before Christmas and Parish Councils would be informed of what sites had proved successful in the autumn
· There was an admission that West Berkshire had been slow to develop a VAS policy relative to some authorities. However, it was noted a relaxation in national regulations now make it easier for the Council to erect these signs.
· Kathy Howells, Chairman of Compton Parish Council raised her concerns regarding the 30 mph speed limit at the East Ilsley end of the village. The Institute for Animal Health - based in Compton - have a large dairy unit and tractors frequently wait in the middle of the road to turn into the unit. It was noted that traffic from East Ilsley approaches at speed and because of a bend in the road are unable to see the danger.The number of near misses was highlighted. Kathy Howells informed the Forum that West Berkshire Council was informed of this problem three years ago but no action has been taken. In response, Neil Stacey noted that there is a backlog of assessments, exacerbated by staffing constraints. Melvyn May also noted that many schemes have been completed in the Parish during that time and that balance was required when considering the whole district needs to be served.
· Melvyn May, explained to the Forum why certain stretches of the B4000 were patched and others completely resurfaced. It was noted that patching was a pre-treatment and preliminary to complete resurfacing. Stretches which had been patched are due to be resurfaced. Structural damage on certain stretches of the B4494 necessitated immediate re-surfacing.
· Neil Stacey outlined the speed review process and encouraged the community to formally contact the Council with specific areas of concern if it was considered a review was required. The next speed limit review would be conducted in September 2006 with recommendations progressing through the Council system to the Executive. Councillor Barbara Alexander noted that Councillors and Parish Councillors have an opportunity to attend the review meeting so should be kept informed. The Forum was directed to further guidance on the Council website.
· In relation to tar and chipping on the B4000, Melvyn May expressed concern and apologised that a ten day notice period was not enforced before work was carried out. He also apologized that letters were not posted to nearby residents to inform them that the work was due. In response to concerns that the chips are hitting windows and blocking drains he confirmed that the material would settle and all drains would be cleared of debris. Melvyn May noted he would raise the persistent breaking of the 20mph speed limit with the Police.
· Neil Stacey noted that there are no plans to introduce Vehicle Activated Signs showing actual speed travelled but confirmed that mobile Speed Indicator Displays (SID’s) would continue to operate in West Berkshire.
· Councillor George Chandler raised concerns regarding the worn road markings in certain areas. In response Melvyn May highlighted budgetary constraints but noted that all road markings are carefully monitored.
· Melvyn May requested further information relating to concerns raised regarding a stretch of footpath in Lambourn.
B4494
Mr Charles MacGregor, a representative of the Campaign to Improve B4494 Road Safety Standards, presented a dossier of information to the Forum outlining concerns regarding the B4494. He congratulated the Highways Team on improvements across the district but expressed his desire to raise the profile of this particular issue given his personal experience on the dangers of the road. Focusing on the Bussock Hill section of the road, Mr MacGregor highlighted recent fatalities and the lack of improvements made since these accidents. Websites noting the ease of excessive speed on the road were condemned.
Mr MacGregor welcomed improvements expected in the next 6-8weeks. He suggested improved signage could make a major difference. He also suggested a lowering of the speed limit from 60 mph and asked that consideration be given to a speed camera. He expressed interest in how the local community might gain a Vehicle Activated Sign and referred to the costs of a fatality relative to a VAS.
Alison MacGregor, a fellow representative of the campaign, noted that her research into problems on the B4494 had raised further issues. She highlighted problems on other stretches of the road. She requested a further agenda item in the October Forum.
Councillor George Chandler welcomed the presentation and noted that Nick Carter, Chief Executive, and Highways Officers would be happy to follow up concerns after the meeting.
Post meeting note – it has been agreed that a meeting between appropriate Council representatives and Mr and Mrs McGregor will be held in September 2006 separate to the Area Forum, but that the Forum will be updated on the progress of the B4494 Safety Scheme at future meetings.
THE RIDGEWAY
Elaine Cox, Senior Rights of Way Officer delivered a presentation on the Ridgeway, updating the Forum on a similar presentation given in October 2005. The designation of the Ridgeway as a restricted byway and the traffic regulation order has resulted in new signage; photographs of these were shown to the Forum. Photographs were also shown which detailed before and after improvements across the length of the Ridgeway in West Berkshire.
The presentation also noted future improvements, including amended signage and improvements to Churn Road. It was noted that the maintenance of the Ridgeway was a condition of the funding obtained from the Countryside Agency.
In response to questions from the floor, Elaine Cox gave the following responses:
· Renovations had been on a very piecemeal basis; however increased funding has led to the recent rapid and widespread improvements.
· Elaine Cox confirmed that West Berkshire Council is awaiting confirmation that it was possible to change signage following the change in designation on the Ridgeway to a restricted byway.
· It was noted that more signs are likely to be put in place once word has been received from the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on sign design.
FEEDBACK FROM THE PREVIOUS DOWNLANDS AREA FORUM
Relating to the recycling rate for plastics, Councillor George Chandler confirmed that there is no kerbside plastic collection and no specific plastic recycling rate.
It was confirmed that all Parishes will receive copies of the Area Forum Terms of Reference and guidance relating to petitions.
PARISH COUNCIL FEEDBACK ON THE PROGRESS OF THEIR PARISH PLANS
There was no feedback to the Forum on the progress of Parish Plans.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS
In response to questions from the audience, Officers gave the following responses:
· Neil Stacey confirmed that a traffic assessment on Hungerford Common had not yet been completed but this would include an examination of whether a 20mph speed limit was suitable.
· In relation to applications for housing developments in Kintbury, Neil Stacey informed the Forum that routes of access to the works site had yet to be determined. Councillor Anthony Stansfeld confirmed that this issue would be examined in the planning application.
· Neil Stacey informed the Forum that 20mph speed limits needed to be self policing because they were not likely to be enforced by the police. These limits are potentially a burden on the police and difficult to enforce in rural villages. Councillor Paul Bryant hoped that developments in Neighbourhood policing might encourage the Police to monitor these limits more closely.
PETITIONS
There were no petitions presented at the Forum.
FUTURE DISCUSSION ITEMS
The following items for discussion were proposed.
- B4494
- Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAG’s)
BUSINESS SESSION
1. Declarations of Interest