Minutes: November 2013

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 5th November 2013 at 7.00 pm
St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall

 

Matters arising: Cleveland road: Planning application has gone to appeal and objectors have had letters. Susan has written on behalf of the Residents Association and Annette was going to send photos. M Essl meeting with officer on Monday to finalise the council response which has to be in by the 15th. The objection will be as strong as possible. It should be decided in twelve weeks but is likely to take slightly longer and the Council will find out as soon as the decision is made. Mr Singh won't be able to re appeal but will be able to put in further applications. There is also an application for 4 houses on the site, but it is unknown whether this is to convert bakery or demolish and rebuild.

 

Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour

Kevin has sent apologies but has sent crime figures to Susan. He will provide antisocial behaviour statistics at the next meeting. He has emailed the other teams in Barnes, Pallion and Millfield after Susan passed on concerns about parking. It was reported that disabled people have difficulties accessing the church hall because of parking. Kevin says that there have been reports of accidents but the problem is that minor accidents won't be reported. Cllr Essl will find out if Diamond Hall is on the list to be visited by the camera car which has been successful around Richard Avenue.  Kevin wants to remind people that coming up to Christmas, there has been an increase in burglaries. Property should not be left visible in cars, and house doors should be kept locked. Opportunistic burglars are trying doors in case they're unlocked. 

There have also been reports of a white van driving up and down lanes with people looking over walls. Suspicious vehicle registration numbers should be reported to the police.

There are also concerns about bins being left out as they can be used to climb over walls. There was also a warning not to put personal information in the bins as there have been reports of people going through bins.

 

Parking Management Scheme

People are reporting problems from streets not in the scheme. Mr Bentley has emailed with problems and he has spoken to Ken Heads who reassured him that they are monitoring the situation. Those streets will be included in the next consultation but this is not going to happen quickly. Ian Kay reported that there won't be any further consultation until the impact of the new car park is known.

Corners and junctions are bad and getting dangerous. Cllr Essl stated that the local councillors will continue to support the scheme but it is difficult when other Councillors are concerned about the hospital. Phase two was small enough so that the hospital didn't object formally as this could have made it difficult to pass phase two and this also wants to be avoided in future. 

Cllr Kay is meeting Claire Dodds about improving signage for the hospital park and ride scheme. This meeting will cover those issues which would have been included in the Transport Users Group meetings which have been cancelled.

The problem with the PMS remains that residents not affected by parking voted against having the scheme but the problem is now being pushed out into these streets. 

Cllr Kay reported that in Millfield the scheme seems to be getting to the periphery as there is only so far that people will walk e.g in John Candlish Road, parking problems are from people using the metro station and not the hospital. It was noted that hospital staff have recently started parking in Arlington Street in Pallion. We will keep monitoring and pushing for the scheme to move out. Improving the park and ride will encourage people to use it and Nexus are not opposed in principle to the 700 bus going through hospital.

 

Treasurers Report

The community chest has been great and community first has given grant for the rent for a year. We should be viable for five years. Susan thanked Elizabeth for her hard work.

 

Any Other Business

Newsletter: Susan asked for volunteers to distribute the next newsletter.

 

50+ forum: Lots of courses relating to health and wellbeing are available. MP Sharon Hodgson is holding listening event regarding the Social care system at Age UK this Friday. 

 

Cllr Kay reported on the proposals to close Sunderland Central Fire Station which is in Millfield ward. The Fire Authority is consulting on this and are seeking honest opinions. The concern is that if Sunderland Central closes, the area will have to rely on cover from Farringdon and Marley Potts and response times would be longer. Susan will email details of the consultation to the distribution list.

 

Susan solicitors letters sent to residents leaseholders in parts of Barnes from High Barnes Estates, asking for notification if alterations have been made and proposing a moratorium where all outstanding approvals will be considered as a single retrospective application. They are asking for two cheques. Current advice is that if they want to survey property then they should pay for it and residents are advised not to send payment. Councillors are aware and are trying to sort something out. Previously, ignoring a similar letter was followed by offer to buy freehold. 

Minutes: October Meeting

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 1st October 2013 at 7.00 pm

St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall

Matters arising from the Minutes
Cleveland Road: The appeal against the planning decision went in on 28th August and could take 8-12 weeks to be decided. It seems like a straight forward appeal hearing according to planning officer. Residents haven't heard anything yet but Cllr M Essl understands that it is a paper chase decided in Bristol. The adjudicator is aware of the objections and will take them into consideration. Cllr Essl will find out if residents photographs can be submitted as part of the evidence. If appeal goes through, that will be the final decision however if rejected the applicant can keep reapplying but is likely to run out of sympathy.

Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour

David Lynn introduced himself as anti social behaviour officer primarily dealing in private rented sector. He informed the group that the area is quite quiet at the moment. Residents reported a couple of issues in two different areas but the officers for those areas haven't had any reports. David urged residents to report problems by phoning 0191 520 5550 since officers can only get involved in a case if it has come in via that number. If person is vulnerable or at risk can be referred to other services and all information will be kept anonymous. It is important therefore to report problems on that number. David is also available on 561 7886 and he can give advice and reassurance. He asked that residents don't wait until next meeting to raise concerns. The 520 5550 number can also be used to report empty properties or properties in disrepair and will receive a response within 48 hours.

 Parking Management Scheme

Phase 2 came into force in mid-September and phase three will come in next year. 
H Wynn showed photos of Brinkburn Street and how quiet it is on a Saturday compared to weekdays when hospital parking is an issue. This has got worse since phase two started. Residents are using cones to reserve spaces adding to problems. The yellow lines have stopped people from parking on those corners that have them but other junctions can be difficult to get around due to people parking right up to them. Cars are also blocking pavements. Residents are advised to report obstructions to the police. Susan will write to the police to ask them to get more involved in this. 

Residents expressed concern at a post van often parked on corners causing obstructions. Susan will write to Royal Mail about this.

Cllr Essl suggested that it may be that yellow lines are needed on corners in streets outside the scheme. He will ask officers to look at the problems in Brinkburn Steet. 

Residents expressed some confusion over the wording of parking permits which Susan will raise at next working group.

Treasurers Report

Elizabeth is working hard to keep us going financially by applying for grants.

Any Other Business

211 Chester Road: Residents are concerned about an application for a change of use to a funeral directors.

Transport users group: Claire Tully from Nexus was at the last meeting. Meetings are open to anyone and they could do with more members. Regarding changes to bus services, issues were raised with the 35, 18, 99 and 700. Clare has taken all these points into consideration but they want more people to comment. Cllr Kay reported that last year Millfield came out as best rated ward in the city for buses and public transport and that Barnes and Pallion were also in the top 5. The challenge for Councillors is that they don't want to lose out while other areas others are improved. Leaflets on changes were circulated.

A complaint was made about the florist on Ormonde Street emptying buckets onto the street which is making a mess. Cllr Scanlan suggested that council officers can have a word with them if they know when they are doing it.  

The grass in Barnes Park hasn't been cut on banks towards Barnes view and it is overgrown by the stream. Susan will contact Cllr Rebecca Atkinson as chair of Friends of Barnes Park.  

Residents are concerned about the state of areas of the city centre such as the area outside Joplings and Holmside. Cllr Scanlan stated that city centre streets are cleaned regularly and people walk the streets every morning to check. She will ask area response officer to look at these areas. Locally she is looking at working with shops on Hylton road to tidy the area up. In the West area, they have been working to encourage shop owners to take more responsibility through encouragement rather than enforcement and hope that this will be rolled out to other areas. 

Tm Hudson asked for update on grass verges in Brookland Road at next meeting. He has seen a difference in parking and fewer people are parking on the grass verge. Cllr Scanlan will look into it.

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 5^th November, 7.00pm in St Mary Magdalene’s Church and Community Hall.
Meeting closed at 8pm.

Minutes: September Meeting

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 3rd September 2013 at 7.00 pm
St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall

Matters arising from the Minutes

Nothing not covered elsewhere.

Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour
Kevin Hood was not present to update on crime in the area.
Cllr Price mentioned that there had been problems in the city centre.
A resident described problems in a private rented property in Percival Street with people drinking in the street and bad language. This can be at any time of the day. Linda will raise the issue with Kevin.
K Wilkinson has heard reports of underage drinking by groups in Barnes Park during late evenings and at weekends. Cllr Price offered to mention this to Cllr Atkinson who is Councillor for Barnes.
Cllr Price asked if anyone was aware of drinking in the pocket park but no one has seen anything. M Greenfield suggested looking for evidence in the form of broken bottles, cans etc. Glass is a problem in Barnes Park and in some streets. At recent Shakespeare in the Park events, police were moving groups of young drinkers on before the performance could start.

 Parking Management Scheme

Regarding issues raised at the last meeting, residents permits have to be at the address where the car is registered and BS had informed him of this. The visitors pass can be used or car can be parked in a drive or garage. K Wilkinson described how there are a lot of scare stories where people haven't seen the scheme in operation or misunderstood how it works.

 Following permission for the scheme being given last month, works to get the scheme up and running been done quickly. Residents in other streets are now asking when they can be included and streets which previously voted no are keen to vote for a scheme. Cllr Kay stated that people hadn't realised what the scheme involved and that there is no deception involved and they will be keen to vote future phases. The scheme has also made hospital take notice and do something to alleviate the parking problems. Cllr Price said that part of success has been in the patience that residents had shown in developing the schemes and that is may be the case for future phases. E Lardner informed the meeting that traffic wardens patrolling every session and are very amenable. 

 The situation regarding visitors was clarified in that they can park on Saturday and Sunday without a permit. During the week a scratch card can be used as an alternative to the visitor permit and these are suggested for example for workmen. They are easy to obtain and cost £10 for ten cards. 

The scheme starts on 16th September. Enforcement will be soft to begin with for two weeks then the scheme will be in full operation from 1^st October. 

K Wilkinson stated that the planning committee meeting had great turn out, James Newell was great and after objections it went straight through. Objections were from shops and Cleveland road.

Treasurers Report

E Lardner, mentioned last month the need to stay viable and she has been successful in getting funding since then. The Association has always managed on grants without having to ask for funds from residents. 

Any Other Business

A Rafferty informed the meeting that the sold sign on the shop on Cleveland road has been taken down, the windows boarded up and hedge cut. It isn’t known who had bought it although there are rumours.

Cllr Price said that Cllr Essl asked him to inform the group that an appeal against the planning refusal has gone in. Cllr Essl will update the next meeting. It does however seem rare for council to get decisions wrong and appeals often fail. The appeal is that the recommendation to refuse went against highways and environmental comments but the chief officer has right to go against any comment. Residents cannot also lodge an appeal, it goes to planning adjudicator and that decision is final. B Price stated that it is better if objections come from the public rather than Spar who have a commercial interest. 

Residents thanked Councillors for their support for the PMS phase 2 and Cllr Price acknowledge the hard work done by the officers.

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 1^st October, 7.00pm in St Mary Magdalene’s Church and Community Hall.

Linda thanked everyone for coming and the meeting closed at 7.40pm.

Minutes: August Meeting

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 6^th August 2013 at 7.00 pm
St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall

Matters arising from the Minutes

K Ross described a recent incident where he was parked at his brother’s garage in Walpole Court and a car from the school bashed his. He had asked at the school about security cameras but told to contact police who took statement and said they would look in to it. He has since had a letter saying the case has been closed based no evidence and would like to see cameras pointing in that direction. Cllr Kay responded that it would be best to ask police about that. Susan has taken police officers details will approach Kevin about it. She will try to find where cameras point and contact street scene. 

D Snell described how motorbikes have also been a problem recently. Cllr Kay reported that the police had caught up with a couple of kids on bikes in the area.

A Rafferty: The application for the Nisa shop was unanimously rejected by councillors. A sold sign has recently gone up on it so it may be being sold now planning permission has been refused. The off licence/general store further down is being extended since permission was refused.

 Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour

Susan stated that gypsies on Ford estate have been causing problems. She has emailed police expressing concern as residents there are not happy and horses should not be kept on public land.
Cllr Kay responded to a question about dog waste bins stating that the next round of dog bins would be set up in September. Also a 'don't feed the bird' sign coming to discourage people from feeding seagulls.
Susan asked about the rulings on seagulls. Cllr Kay stated that they cannot be killed and noting can be done during the nesting season. Before and after nesting, old nests can be cleared out and mesh or spikes can be installed. There are similar problems in town with pigeons since people feed them. Letters about not feeing the birds will grow out with signs. Susan described how a neighbour asked council for advice, they sent a large document with advice but it is up to the owner to deal with. Elizabeth and her neighbours are going to get an odd job man to fit mesh or spikes to prevent nesting in future.

 Parking Management Scheme

The working group met last week. As there have been six objections the scheme is going before the planning and highways committee on 15th August for approval.  Anyone can attend if they want to, Susan, Kate and Linda are to speak in favour. If approved, work starts shortly afterwards. Residents will get letters telling them how to get permits, the scheme starts mid September and enforcement starts 1st October. The hospital are on board with this and they are looking to start work on the multi storey car park in early October. To try to cope with displaced cars, the laundry is being knocked down to provide 130 spaces, park and ride is being extending, 100 staff signed up to give up parking permits during the next year,  and the hospital are pushing for more and considering moves such as any staff within 2 miles having their permit removed. The scheme also reinstates spaces along Bell Street. The next working group is 8th October, after the scheme goes live. This will look at how the scheme is working including how extended times for parking bays are working.

 A resident asked about visiting his brother within the scheme. Cllr Kay suggested applying as the designated driver for that house. The council could advise.

A resident asked about Westfield Grove being used as a rat run. Surveyors were seen there but nothing more has been done. Susan will contact the council to ask or Cllr Essl and will pass on Keith's phone number.

A Rafferty asked if Cleveland Road would be included in schemes. Susan stated that we will push for that area to be included after phase three is implemented next year. Ken explained how the streets were selected by majority vote. People who previously voted no are now voting yes as problem spreads out.

Treasurers Report
Elizabeth described how we rely on grants and she is looking for other grants to keep us viable as there is much more work to do. Grants are not as easy to get as they used to be and we have grown and taken on many more issues. Susan stated that it would be unfair to charge members while Linda stated that expenditure kept to a bare minimum.

 Any Other Business

Linda described cars being for sale along the Broadway, at least six for sale recently and also further up by the shops. This is also a problem on Hylton Road where it's stopping people getting to the shops. Cllr Kay responded that it is difficult do doing anything about it if it is on privately owned land.

Susan, Mark and Linda had attend over 50s forum. Mark informed the group that the frequency for free view is changing and information is being sent out to every house informing people that they will receive an adapter. However, people are throwing the information away and are then unaware of what to do with the adapter. 

The residents association will be in next issued of community news.

We would encourage as many people as possible to attend the planning and highways meeting on the 15^th to show support for the parking scheme.

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 3rd September at 7.00pm in St Mary Magdalene’s Church and Community Hall.

The meeting closed t at 7.50pm.

Minutes of July Meeting

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 2nd July 2013 at 7.00 pm
St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall
Including the Annual General meeting

Annual General Meeting

The officers were re-elected, Susan Adamson, Chair; Linda Ranton, vice chair; Elizabeth Lardner, Treasurer; Kate Wilson, secretary.

Elizabeth circulated a copy of the Association’s accounts for the previous twelve months. The majority of the expenditure is on meeting room hire and printing newsletters. She suggested a need to renew and update equipment and to consider how to stay viable financially as our current income relies on community chat grants, the latest of which covers the working group room hire but not the regular meetings. Elizabeth will also look into other grant sources. Susan thanks Elizabeth for her hard work.

 Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour

PC Kevin Hood gave crime reports for the period 2/6-30/6 highlighting that overall crime is low. He gave a reminder to keep front doors locked as there have been walk in burglaries where people have been outside in the back and the front door has been unlocked. 
The have been unreported thefts from gardens and Kevin urged that all incidents are reported. They are often able to recover property but if it has not been reported it can't be returned to the owner. The 03456 number is being phased out and replaced by 101. This can be used to report all non-emergencies. Police work on statistics and can only act in areas where they are aware of problems. 
Helmut reported an email scam which looks like a tax rebate but is a hoax.
David Lynn, anti-social behaviour officer, sent apologies but can be contacted on 561 7886 to report antisocial behaviour, noise problems etc. 

Parking Management Scheme

The working group met in June to update on the scheme. There had been delays due to legal advice being needed. The traffic regulation order is to be published on the 5th July with a three week consultation period. A planning and highways meeting is scheduled for mid-August after which works will start straight away. The scheme will be up and running before the works start on the multi storey car park. The problem will spread so we will keep pushing for expansion of the scheme however the hospital will want people to use the car park. The hospital are also demolishing the laundry to provide more parking spaces and extending park and ride services.

 Nisa store, Cleveland Road

The planning application has been resubmitted with shorter opening hours and a statement that smaller delivery vehicles will be used. The applicant has arranged a petition in favour while there are two petitions against, one arranged by the Spar and one from Annette and James. A number of residents will speak at the planning meeting. Cllr Essll reminded residents that the committee can only consider planning issues such as traffic, parking, risk of anti-social behaviour, noise, litter and safety. A letter of objection is to be submitted on behalf of the residents association.

Any Other Business
Susan reported that instead of newsletters, notices advertising the association would be placed in local shops. She has also contacted the Federation of Residents associations, to join forces and share experiences with others within similar issues. 

Susan and Linda are to meet with Community News and will be included in the next issue. 

Alison and Nichola described the work of Groundwork North East. This is an 18 month environmental charity working in partnership with councils, residents groups and the fire brigade tackling arson in Hendon and Millfield. They are seeking community champions and spreading the word via residents groups. They gave a presentation,  highlighting the problems and ask that people report such issues and ask that residents spread the word. 

Helmet updated on the transport users group, in particular bus services 18, 19 and 99, metro ticket mavens and he circulated Bridge cards to those who need assistance with traveling on public transport. The next meeting is on 30/7/13 at the civic centre. 

Residents complained about the state of the back lanes of Brinkburn and Ormonde Streets and Mount Road by the school. Cllr Essll said that an engineer will take a look and if dangerous something will be done. 

Regarding Libraries, Kayll Road will remain open but hours may be reduced as part of the cuts.

Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday 6th August at 7.00pm in St Mary Magdalene’s Church and Community Hall.
 
The meeting closed t at 8.30pm.

Minutes of June Meeting

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 4^th June 2013 at 7.00 pm
St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall

Matters arising from the Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were approved.  Any matters arising to be discussed as the Agenda.

Pallion News
Bill Blackett had been invited to attend the meeting in order to receive the results of a consultation re the damaged grass verges in Brookland Road organised by Tom (Brookland Road resident).  Tom reported that the residents of Brookland Road had overwhelmingly voted for the verges to be replaced with tarmac.  Bill stated the Consultation would be very useful.  He agreed the verges were in a deplorable state following the winter weather and parking. In February he had taken part in a “Ward Walk” with Cllr Gofton and met with Tom in Brookland Road. He stated the Council planned to try re-seeding the verges following the Parking Permit Scheme being introduced into Brookland Road, thus hopefully the parking should be reduced.  If this did not work then the option of replacing the verges with tarmac would be looked into.  Tom stated big lorries trying to deliver glass to the local glaziers were adding to the problems with incidences of broken wing mirrors etc.  Cllr Gofton stated that hopefully the improvement to the parking situation in Henderson Road because of the Scheme would follow through to Brookland Rd when the Scheme was introduced there.

 Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour

David Lynn from the Anti-Social Behaviour Team explained that his Department now also dealt with noise complaints.  He stated that the situation in Pallion & Millfield was now quite quiet with just a couple of issues being dealt with at the moment.  He stressed that he could only deal with reported issues.  If residents had any concerns they should report them to his Department.  He gave his Direct Line number 0191 5617886 and also Council 24/7 helpline number 0191 5205550 which was manned by a dedicated team with a matrix for direct referrals to a Victim Support officer.  He stated that last summer Barnes Park had been subjected to quite a lot of youth disorder.  There was a lot of work being done by the Police and Youth teams dealing with alcohol abuse etc. with warnings and contracts with offender’s families.  Identified problem families are visited and worked with to tackle anti-social behaviour.  Some families were turned round by the support received.  Any families refusing to engage were subject to the law and appropriate penalties.  He stressed again he could do nothing without a report.  Any calls to the Police 101 line were treated in confidence.  He could then follow up with leaflet drops to gauge the situation.  Most reports received were about fly-tipping and issues of tolerance.  He was also working with private landlords, inviting them to join an accreditation scheme.  David agreed to the contact numbers being put on the Residents’ Blog.   They were also on the Council Website and in the Community News.

Ken reported recently attending an event in Barnes Park in which everything went very well with no troubles whatsoever.  The park was well used.

PC Kevin Hood gave out the crime reports for the previous month for Barnes, Pallion & Millfield areas.  He reported a big problem in Sunderland in general of bike thefts.  There would be a Security Road Show held in the Sunderland Royal Hospital for members of the public as well as staff.  Bikes were expensive items and thus attracted the thieves.  There was also a scheme to mark items with security pens.  There were a few incidences of anti-social behaviour reports around Holly Court but these were mainly youths playing football and also gangs moving through the area being reported in different streets.  Susan stated many people felt intimidated by the size of the gangs.

PC Hood reported very few reports of anti-social behaviour in Barnes Park.   He asked the residents to be more vigilant during the warm weather and try not to leave doors and windows unlocked.  Garden ornaments, tools etc. are a target for thieves.  Sightings of a white scrap van touring the area blatantly looking over walls were reported.  Linda thanked Bill Blackett and the council officials for making sure residents did not leave their bins out and less incidences of fly-tipping in the back lanes.  Bill agreed to look into concerns about a resident on St Gabriels Estate leaving household rubbish outside his front door.

Parking Management Scheme

Susan reported the next Working Group meeting would be June 18^th 2013.  Linda and Susan had recently attended the Hospital Travel Focus Group meeting whereby ways of helping staff and visitors to use public transport, car share, bikes or even walking to work could be looked at.  The Hospital were now hiring bikes to their staff.  While the multi-storey car park was being built they had asked staff to voluntarily give up their on-site parking permits and use public or alternative transport instead, rewarding them with free permits once the car park was finished.  Building was due to start in September. The Hospital are also in negotiations with the contractors re their workers being transported to the site rather than bring their cars, causing even more chaos.  It was vital that Phase 2 of the Residents Only Parking Scheme was in situ before building started.  The Hospital are  in agreement with this.  The back gate leading into Sorley Street is to be permanently welded shut.  Plans were also in place to demolish the old laundry and replace this with parking for over 100 cars.  Linda reported the Hospital were also going to negotiate with the Bus Company to try and get the 700 bus to go through the Hospital grounds stopping at Outpatients and the Main Concourse.  Linda also reported the potential use of a “POP” card similar to the London “Oyster” card which could be used on all public transport including metro and trains.

Cllr Watson stated a good public transport system for the 21^st Century was a social need but the bus companies needed to make a profit so ways of subsidising costs had to part of an economic master plan.

Treasurers Report

Elizabeth reported the accounts were ready for the AGM.  She had used the previous grant money so would be applying for further Community Chest grant money to help cover costs of extra meetings.  Discussion followed about the cost of financing a leaflet drop covering Barnes, Pallion and Millfield in order to attract a wider group of people.  Following discussion it was agreed this might be too big an area and posters in local shops would be more viable for the moment.

 Any Other Business

Cllr Michael Essl could not attend the meeting but did provide his mobile telephone number: 07917554433 with regard to any concerns over the traffic situation at the junction of Cleveland Road/Ewesley Road.  Cllr Martin had also attended the meeting by invitation from the Residents Committee over the same concerns.   At last month’s meeting concerns had been raised about the dangers and near accidents at this junction.  Tom reported watching a large articulated lorry trying to negotiate the corners, holding up all the traffic.  The meeting agreed the size of the lorries was the main issue.  Cllr Gofton questioned the Police’s approach to this issue.  PC Hood stressed the incidences should be reported in order to build up a data.  Cllr Watson suggested writing to the Spa management with dates and photographic evidence.   Spa management and the Florists had been written to previously with no response. Tom suggested asking them to try and receive deliveries out of hours.  Cllr Martin suggested more should be done to get traffic back to the main arterial routes with chicanes on Cleveland Road to reduce traffic flow, also limited time parking bays.   He also stated extending the Parking Management Scheme to the ABC streets and Ewesley Road would give the Traffic Enforcement Officers the opportunity to monitor and police the situation.  Linda stated the trend for the return of local shopping was a good thing but this in turn would necessitate more deliveries.  Ken stated the cars parked all day right on the corners of the junctions did not help the situation.

 Date of Next Meeting (including AGM)

Tuesday 2^nd July at 7.00pm in St Mary Magdalene’s Church and Community Hall.

The meeting closed t at 8.15pm.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 5th March

The next Residents Association meeting will take place on Tuesday 5th March.

At our previous meeting we heard from Claire Fisher from Nexus who spoke to us about the services they cover such as the local buses, metro, Shields Ferry and local rail services between Sunderland and Newcastle. Claire was also helpful in asnwering questions and concerns that residents have about local bus services such as the threat of removing some streets from routes and the possiblility of routing the 700 service through the hospital. She went on to explain about the various concessionary passes available and those available to people who may need additional assistance in using public transport. For more information visit The Nexus Website.

At the February meeting we also heard from residents who had sought help from the council in dealing with rubbish in back lanes and problem neighbours. In both cases the residents concerned reported successful outcomes.

We often have members of the anti-social behaviour team or council officers from the neighbourhood response teams and PC Keven Hood often attends. All can advise residents on any problems they may have.

Anyone living or working in the area is welcome to join us at 7pm on the first Tuesday of each month in St Mary Magdelene's Church Hall, Wilson Street.

Parking management scheme: Time to Vote

The parking management scheme has been operating for a year now in several streets around the hospital. This has successfully reduced the problems associated with all day parking for residents in these streets. Prior to the scheme there was regular complaints from residents who were unable to park in their streets and often stories of drives, garages and back yards being blocked by inconsiderate parking. As one resident stated recently “we lived in a car park for years but now we’ve got our street back”.

Many streets did not vote in favour of the original scheme and therefore were not included in phase 1. However, residents are now finding that the parking situation has worsened in their streets.

The council are now consulting residents of a number of other streets on whether they should be included in the scheme. The votes will be counted on a street by street basis and as with the original scheme, only those streets with a majority of households in favour will be included in the extended scheme. It is important therefore that you use your vote. An unreturned vote is automatically counted as being a vote against the scheme. 

A number of streets are being included in the consultation as ‘reserve streets’. If any of those streets in phase 2 do not have a majority in favour then the reserve streets will be considered for inclusion in phase 2 instead. 

Any reserve streets voting in favour this time but not included in phase 2 we hope will be included in the next phase of the scheme without further consultation. It is important therefore that all households consulted return their voting form by 7^th January.

There have been no changes to the way the scheme operates, with a permit only required for one hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon. Outside of these times, no permit is required. No permit is needed if a vehicle is parked off the road e.g. in a back yard, drive or garage. The first permit for each household is free. A visitors permit is available for £40 or books of 10 scratchcard permits are available for just £10. Further details are in the consultation packs.

Council officers are available all day (8am to 8pm) on Tuesday 11^th December at St Joesphs Community Centre and on Wednesday 19^th at Ewesly Road Methodist church to answer questions.

The council are aware that parking problems will be worsened in streets not included in the scheme and will continue to monitor these streets with a view to including them in future expansion of the residents parking scheme. The residents association will be pressing for this to happen as quickly as possible.

Important reminder to Residents within the parking scheme

A reminder to residents living within the parking management scheme that your permits are due for renewal at the end of December. The council are not sending out reminder so it is up to you to renew your permits. 

You can e-mail your request to hospitalpms@sunderland.gov.uk or write to Parking Services, Jack Crawford House, Sunderland SR2 8QR. Alternatively you can take your written request to Kayll Road Library and they will forward your application direct to Parking Services.  If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Parking Services on 0191 5611433.

Meeting: Tuesday 4th December

All are welcome to join us at our December meeting held in St Mary Magdalenes Church Hall at 7pm.
The agenda includes an update on the parking management scheme, crime and anti-social behaviour and local transport issues.

We did think that we would be losing our local police officer from our meetings but PC Kevin Hood told our last meeting that he would still be allowed to attend and would endeavour to make the meetings both when on and off duty. Kevin provides valuable information on crime and anti-social behaviour in the area as well as giving timely advice to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime. He is also willing to listen and answer questions residents may have and where necessary will follow up complaints/problems. 

At the November meeting, Kevin reminded us that in the run up to Christmas we should ensure that doors and windows are locked and where you have vertical blinds, to turn them away from the tree so that a would be thief cannot see presents sitting under the tree. Also, valuable advice at any time of year but particularly in the festive period, to make sure that anything left in a car is locked out of sight in the boot. 

How can local shopping areas be improved?

At our November meeting, Cllr Gofton asked for ideas on how to improve local shopping areas. The West Area Committee, which covers Pallion and Barnes, are looking for feedback from residents with ideas on how the local environment within shopping areas such as Pallion Road/St Luke's Terrace and Chester Road can be improved. Councillors said that ideas do not have to be fully thought through and that there is not a huge amount of money available but if anyone has ideas which are feasible they would be looked at.

If you have any thoughts on this issue, contact your Barnes or Pallion Councillors, details can be found here on the council website. Alternatively, come along to our meeting on 4th December.

Parking Scheme

We understand that the public consultation on the next phase of the residents parking scheme will be posted in the next couple of weeks and residents have until the 7^th of January to return their voting cards. Open days will be held in each area at which residents will be able to speak to council officers about the scheme. 

The first phase of the scheme has been operating for a year now and the restrictions preventing non-residents from parking for just two hours per day has successfully reduced troublesome parking in affected streets. As one resident put it “we have got our street back”.  However the problem has migrated or worsened in neighbouring streets.

There will be no change to the existing scheme, permit costs and times of operation remain the same and will be extended to those streets in which the majority of households vote in favour. It is therefore important that you use your vote.

A reminder to residents living within the parking management scheme that your permits are due for renewal at the end of December. The council are not sending out reminder so it is up to you to renew your permits. You can e-mail your request to hospitalpms@sunderland.gov.uk or write to Parking Services, Jack Crawford House, Sunderland SR2 8QR. Alternatively you can take your written request to Kayll Road Library and they will forward your application direct to Parking Services.  If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Parking Services on 0191 5611433.

Update

We were hoping to be into the consultation stage of the next phase of the residents parking scheme by now, however, in light of the hospital preparing to apply for planning permission for a multi storey car park, there have been some delays. We are hoping that the consultation will go ahead within the next few weeks.

At a recent working group meeting attended by residents, the council and the hospital we were reassured to hear from hospital representatives that they have no objections to the scheme being rolled out. Once again, the scheme will only be extended to those streets where the majority of residents are in favour so it is important that you use your vote. Fingers crossed that the extended scheme will be in place in the Spring. 

Police Updates

PC Kevin Hood has been a regular at our meetings giving valuable updates on crime and anti-social behaviour and offering advice on how to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of crime. Unfortunately, he won't be able to join us from the end of the year but he is still prepared to offer residents advice. PC Hood can be contacted by telephone on 101 69191 or by email kevin.hood.2580@northumbria.pnn.police.uk

Residents can also attend the PACT (Pallion Partners and Community Together) meetings where the neighbourhood policing team attend. The next meeting is Wednesday 24th October 2012, 5pm - 6pm at Pallion Action Group, East Moor Road.

Anti-social behaviour can also be reported to the Council via their Neighbourhood helpline on 0300 1000 101. This number can also be used to report graffiti, litter, dog fouling, faulty street lights, dumped cars and empty properties. We have had good feedback on this service from residents who have used it.

Minutes of September Meeting

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 4^th September 2012 at 7.00 pm

in St Mary Magdalene's Church Community Hall

1. Welcome and Apologies:                        Susan welcomed those attending for the first time.

Apologies were received from: J Hickman and P Pike.

2. Matters arising from the Minutes:  Minutes of the meeting held on 7^th August 2012 were agreed.

(a) Traffic congestion –Barnes area junctions:  Susan reported that Street Scene are monitoring the problems.

(b) Bus stops: The subject of build-outs or build-ins to comply with the Disability Discrimination Acts is still under discussion.

(b) Residents' issues: Cllr Scanlan has followed up various items raised at the last meeting.

Pallion Inn – no-one knows anything about it becoming a Tesco Express.

Brookland Road tree roots – Highways Dept are unable to locate the problem.  Resident will supply location details.

Bexley Street – a bin has been replaced and the subsidence rectified

Percival Street – Building Control are contacting landlord about potentially dangerous property.

Millfield Walk and Talk: - Friday 14^th September at 2 pm starting at Chester's car park, to see if any improvements can be made on a small budget.  Will look at problem of bins during the walk.  Residents' suggestions are welcome. 

3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports:

PC Kevin Hood, Beat Manager for Millfield, Pallion and Deptford area, presented his report for the period 17^th July to 14^th August 2012.  In 2 areas there were no crimes reported but there have been a number of reports of anti-social behaviour around the Pendle Green area.  The problems are not gang related.  David Lynn, Anti-social Behaviour Officer for Sunderland West, advised that a lot of work is being done in the area where youths are gathering.  He's working in partnership with the police.  Cllr Essl confirmed that initiatives are being investigated to provide places for youngsters to get together. 

·         David Lynn asked anyone wishing to report any anti-social behaviour causing harassment, alarm or distress to ring the 24-hour help line 0300 1000 101. 

Dedicated officers attend to reports.  The helpline also deals with issues such as dog fouling, litter, dumped cars, graffiti, street lighting and empty properties.

A resident reported a mattress and wardrobe being left in Kayll Rd back lane and was advised to contact the help line.

Empty Properties:  A problem relating to Ancona Street was raised by a resident.  David Lynn advised that the Empty Property Officer is currently dealing with this.  The Officer is actively seeking to bring empty properties back into use.  Also, the landlord of another property has asked them to vet a prospective tenant using the Council's free Landlord Accreditation Scheme. 

Cllr Kay reported that Millfield has the 2^nd highest number of empty properties in the city.  He and his colleagues are working to try to bring them back into use and up to date.  He referred to changes in government rates for housing benefit which could leave residents unable to pay their rent.  He thinks this could result in more even empty properties because people can't afford them, or that 'informal' tenants could move in to help pay the rent.

4.  Parking Management Scheme – Introduction of Phase 2        

Susan reported that she and Linda met with Council officers 2 weeks ago and the Working Group are to meet on 5^th September. 

Proposed Hospital Multi-Storey Car Park:  The Hospital's Planning Officer has advised there will be a public consultation held in the Education Building on Tuesday, 18^th September from 8am-8pm.  Plans will be on view.  Susan added that cars displaced while building goes on will be in our streets until it's finished.  Also, Cllr Watson told our last meeting it may be politic to delay Ph.2 until after the multi-storey is built.  We don't want that, nor do the traffic officers.  We're considering reducing the size of the area to cover those streets surrounding the hospital.  A smaller scheme should get a better response. 

Cllr Essl said that:

o   the Residents Association was formed to alleviate parking problems. 

o   the Parking Management Scheme was a tool picked to do that job, but now the hospital are to build a multi-storey car park which will solve the problem. 

o   people in the proposed streets didn't vote for the PMS last time. 

o   the hospital cannot be rendered incapable of functioning.

Residents responded that:

·         the Council, not the residents, proposed the original Parking Management Scheme.  Thatr scheme would have taken in the whole blue area shown on the map, totally blocking out the hospital.  Residents had objected to that scheme.

·         the Residents Association was formed and campaigned to find a solution and had empathy for the visitors.  They asked the hospital to provide safe parking for their staff.  

·         at the last vote, residents didn't understand the scheme.

·         without the PMS in place the multi-storey would not be being built.

·         Ph.2 is needed to cope with the cars displaced while the build is in progress.

·         Ph.2 has been reduced in size as a concession to the hospital.  Hospital staff parking in the streets will have just an extra 5 minute walk.  Council officers have paced it. 

·         there are parking places available at 7 am but staff still choose to park in the streets.  They won't pay to park in the multi-storey.

·         at no time has anyone from the hospital told us the PMS is causing a problem.

·         at no time has anyone from the hospital said the extension of the PMS will cause a problem and asked for a delay.

·         Councillors are trying to appease the hospital.

·         the Residents Association have never antagonised the hospital.

·         the recent extension was built with Ph.1 already in place.

·         the multi-storey will not be built in 6 months.

Cllr Atkinson asked if the revised scheme will extend to the ABC streets.  Many of the residents there have made representations to her.  Susan advised the ABC streets will not be covered by the reduced scheme.

Cllr Kay said the hospital are in a weak position and cannot be trusted; the multi-storey it is still a plan at the moment.  We need to put pressure on them. 

Susan advised that the Council, the working group and the hospital will meet together this month.  This will be the first time in 3 years that the hospital have agreed to come along.  In fact they have requested it. 

A Sorley Street resident showed contrasting photos of parking in her street, one half of the street being within the PMS, the other outside.  She wondered if there would be concessions available for a 2-car family should the scheme be extended.  Susan advised discussing her individual needs with Council officers.

Cllr Price was concerned that parking will migrate if the PMS is extended.

Mark Greenfield thanked the Residents Association and the Working Group for progressing the scheme so far.  He added that, given the problems, they should not procrastinate now and should stick to their guns. 

Linda asked that everyone back each other.  It would be heartbreaking if the ward councillors let us down now.

Alan moved that the meeting move on to the next item on the Agenda.

5. Transport Users Issue

Cllr Price reported there are teething problems with the new ticketing machines at the Metro stations.  They are eating your money.

6. Treasurers Report       Elizabeth reported we are holding our own at the moment.

7. Blog Update  Kate has items to upload and would welcome photos etc to show what is going on.

8. Any Other Business

Annual Newsletter circulation    Sue reported that there are still some streets to be done.

Abstentions:  A resident asked what will happen with abstentions in the forthcoming ballot.  Susan explained that streets with a narrow margin of Yes/No votes will be reviewed by a panel who will take empty properties into account.

Charge for 2^nd Parking Permit:  A resident queried why the Council charges for a 2^nd car, feeling that the hospital should pay.  Susan explained that this pays for the traffic warden and the costs involved in setting up and running the scheme.

Police PACT meetings:  PC Hood reported that his attendance at our meetings will cease at the end of this year.  Residents can attend the Pallion Partners and Community Together (PACT) meetings.  The next is on 1^st October at:

• Pallion Action Group                         3-4pm
• Deptford Community Centre          6-7pm

Kevin asked anyone wishing to contact him to

v  telephone: 101 69191 or

v  email: Kevin.hood.2580@northumbria.pnn.police.uk 

Susan expressed disappointment that PC Hood would no longer be in attendance to answer residents' concerns. 

9. Date of Next Meeting

Tuesday, 2^nd October at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's Church & Community Hall.

The meeting closed at 8.40 pm.