Throughout the year the PC continued to be involved in environmental matters “from tree care to litter prevention” Larger bins had been provided in some places, new bins in others. Litter generated via Tesco had been a constant concern and the PC’s views made clear to Hfds Council.
Cllr Robinson noted there had been an increase in anti-social behaviour, partly because both Community Support Officers had been on sick leave for some time. The PC was working with the police and Hfds Council to try and resolve this problem.

Planning matters had continued to be of considerable importance - from new conservatories to the enlargement of the car wash. Applications had been studied by PC members and a consensus passed to Hfds Planning Department.

Burglary, bikes and football
The most significant crime incident in the area since the last PC meeting (May 14), according to West Mercia Police, was a burglary at Tesco for which two youths were arrested.
Some instances of “mini moto” bike usage were reported. The police procedure is that riders are first warned not to ride the machines on public land; if there is a subsequent offence the bike can be confiscated.

Property had been damaged in Coppin Rise as a result of children playing football in the play area. The police have agreed to investigate this further, the problem being caused largely by one local family inviting friends from outside the parish to take part.

The two Community Support Officers are now nearly back to full duties and new CSOs are working in the Redhill/Newton Farm area.

Coppin Rise residents believe that a bench on public open space attracts anti-social behaviour and should be moved. The bench does not belong to the PC and was placed there in memory of a resident. The PC is to consider a new location and, if agreed, request the bench be moved.

Freedom of speech now freer
PC standing orders do not permit members of the public to speak during PC meetings other than at times allocated for public participation.

Following discussion a clause has been added whereby, at the chairman’s discretion, a member of the public who is present may contribute a brief statement, orally or in writing, provided the matter is relevant to the debate. This new clause does not, however, confer an automatic right to speak on any subject at any meeting.

Cash granted for new doors
As part of the refurbishment plans for the Belmont Community Centre the SWCA asked for a grant of £2100 to replace two emergency doors. Funding for a further emergency door was granted by the PC some 18 months previously. After a brief site visit it was agreed to grant up to £1500 to the cost of this work. Cllrs. John Newman and Andy Myatt, declared a personal interest in this item and left the meeting during the discussion.

More online, more noise
The PC objected to an application by Tesco to extend online shopping operations to Sundays between 9 am and 4.30 pm. Members felt it would increase noise levels into and out of the store, reducing residents’ enjoyment of their homes and gardens.

First stage in going for £200,000
Fran White, of Hfds Council, reported the partial completion of an expression of interest form for a Lottery Grant for £200,000. It was agreed that the expression of interest would be submitted by the PC for £200,00 for various play and leisure facilities within the vicinity of the Northolme Centre, the details to be agreed at a later date.

Members noted that if the grant is awarded Hfds Council would co-ordinate the work but that the audit fee would grow as a result of funds passing through the PC accounts.

Job for a pro
“Permission to cultivate” on the land at the junction of Northolme Road and the A465 is still awaited. An approximate cost of £2 - £3 per plant is envisaged. It was agreed that quotations be obtained for a professional contractor to prepare the 80 x 13 m site, and to plant and maintain the site for 12 months until the plants are established.

Weedspray query
Kerb weedspraying by Hfds Council was observed shortly after the April meeting. The clerk has asked the Highways Dept if a sweep and/or spray is intended in areas where walls adjoin pavements.

Verge parkers
Work is continuing with Hfds Council to identify drivers who park on grass verges. Poor quality remedial work has been carried out; on Dorchester Way a vehicle was seen parked over the newly seeded area.