David Lynn, Anti-social behaviour officer at the council attended our last meeting. He advised that many problems, such as anti-social behaviour, litter, dog fouling, graffiti and potholes can be reported to the council, 24/7, on the following telephone number: 0300 100 0101
For further details on issues such as crime statistics, rogue landlords and cannabis farms scroll down to the September meeting minutes.
Tuesday, 27 September 2011
Saturday, 24 September 2011
Parking Scheme
The residents parking scheme is to be introduced by the end of the year in twelve streets around the hospital. The residents association have worked with Councillors and council officer to come up with a scheme which residents in those streets voted for. An article punlished in the Echo on Thursday tells the story: read all about it here.
Thursday, 22 September 2011
Minutes of September Meeting
Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 6th September 2011 at 7.00 pm
in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall
1. Welcome to: Representatives of Millfield Residents Assn; David Lynn, Anti-Social Behaviour Officer.
2. Matters arising from the Minutes
Potholes: We've been advised that Victory Street works will be carried out this financial year. Ewesley Rd and St Gabriel's Estate will be inspected with a view to repairing defects considered to be an immediate danger. A resident reported that an elderly lady had fallen in Ewesley Rd due to a pothole; four small holes have now been filled in. Cllr Watson explained that there's a programme of planned maintenance but small holes which developed in the winter are now getting bigger. The Council only have money to effect temporary repairs in roads but try to ensure footpaths are as safe as possible. David Lynn advised reporting potholes to the Helpline 0300 100 0101 and an officer will respond.
Shackleton House: Linda wrote to Julie Elliott MP who referred the matter to the Chief Executive of Crown Estates. Linda has now received a letter from solicitors Burges Salmon questioning her information about the property's ownership and phrased in such a way as to make it virtually impossible to comprehend, it being compared to something from 'Yes Minister'. Cllr Gofton suggested sending Julie Elliott a copy of the letter with a request that she follow it up.
Mosque: Representatives of Millfield Residents Association gave a report on the meeting they'd called last week which was attended by over 150 people. There'll be a protest tomorrow at 1.30 by local residents at the Civic Centre Council Chamber. Their campaign is gathering momentum.
3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports
David Lynn advised there've been no more reports of the anti-social behaviour in Croft Avenue reported at the last meeting. Any incidents can be reported on 0300 100 0101.
PC Hood gave his report for the period 26 July to 23 August 2011. He reminded residents to lock their front doors, especially those who live in the rear of their property. Graffiti problems have settled down since an offender was caught; graffiti can also be reported on the above 0300 number.
Getting his landlord to carry out repairs to a door was a problem for one resident. David Lynn asked anyone with problems of this nature to ring him on 561 7886 and an officer will contact the landlord.
During a discussion on drugs, PC Hood advised that houses where drugs are grown can be spotted as curtains are permanently closed and there's condensation on windows.
4. St Luke's Terrace Shopping Parade – Planning Application for Cafe/Restaurant
The Development Control Sub-Committee met on 16th August and David Campbell spoke well against the application, quoting the Council's Unitary Development Plan. According to the planning officer there is sufficient parking but we feel this is a big issue. Despite concerns being raised by the Sub-Committee members themselves, they voted unanimously to approve the application as recommended by the planning officer. Cllr Iain Kay showed support for the residents but had to abstain from voting as he was seen to have a biased interest. We were very disappointed, feeling the outcome was cut and dry before we sat down. The Council don't seem to be listening to what the community wants. Local residents have to tolerate cooking smells, rubbish and car parking but have no say in what's going on. We intend to complain about the Sub-Committee as, although councillors expressed the same concerns as us, they didn't vote against the recommendation to approve the application.
5. Parking Management Scheme
A workshop briefing was held on 23 August with Ken Heads, James Newell and councillors Blackburn, Dixon, Gofton and Morrissey. They're looking to have everything on track for 1st December unless they encounter legal objections during the public consultation period. There'll be walkabout meetings on 13th September comprising Ken Heads, residents, and councillors starting at 2.30pm at St Gabriels church, 4pm at Wilson St/Hylton Road, and 5pm at Jackson St/Chester Road. The idea is to point out where signs and double yellow lines are to be sited for the pilot scheme.
A survey of the wider area will be carried out to get a snapshot of residents' and commuter parking on one day in October. The results will be compared with a 2nd survey in the spring 2011 which will show where parking has migrated to. We've asked for reassurance that those streets which voted in favour of the scheme but were excluded from the pilot, will be included when it rolls out. We'd also like it extending to include weekends.
We've written to the Hospital with our view that their new parking-eye system will make things worse. There are empty parking spaces on an evening but drivers are parking in our streets as they don't want to pay the hospital's charges.
6. Extension of Temporary Traffic Regulation Order 2009 – Chester Road/Ormonde Street etc.
At the meeting of 23rd August James Newell confirmed we're getting our right-turn back at Ormonde Street; those further down Chester Road will remain. To keep traffic flowing, traffic up and down Chester Road will get a double-cycle at the lights, and the timing sequence will be altered. We can't get our pedestrian crossing back but they're hoping to put in a pedestrian refuge to the west of Ewesley Road. A new TRO has been published for the hospital area.
7. Treasurer's Report
We have money for our needs and no expenses.
8. Blog and Facebook Update
Facebook: one member has been removed but more have joined. Blog: minutes have been posted.
9. Any Other Business
Newsletter: We need volunteers to help distribute at least 2000 copies. We cover a large area.
Refuse Collections: Cllr Watson asked if we could let him have our thoughts on what the Council could do about collections, eg they're emptying green bins about 1/3 full every week but garden refuse bins only every 2 weeks. Is this enough in summer? What about the size of bins? He'd appreciate some feedback.
10. Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 4th October 2011 at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall. Everyone Welcome
in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall
1. Welcome to: Representatives of Millfield Residents Assn; David Lynn, Anti-Social Behaviour Officer.
2. Matters arising from the Minutes
Potholes: We've been advised that Victory Street works will be carried out this financial year. Ewesley Rd and St Gabriel's Estate will be inspected with a view to repairing defects considered to be an immediate danger. A resident reported that an elderly lady had fallen in Ewesley Rd due to a pothole; four small holes have now been filled in. Cllr Watson explained that there's a programme of planned maintenance but small holes which developed in the winter are now getting bigger. The Council only have money to effect temporary repairs in roads but try to ensure footpaths are as safe as possible. David Lynn advised reporting potholes to the Helpline 0300 100 0101 and an officer will respond.
Shackleton House: Linda wrote to Julie Elliott MP who referred the matter to the Chief Executive of Crown Estates. Linda has now received a letter from solicitors Burges Salmon questioning her information about the property's ownership and phrased in such a way as to make it virtually impossible to comprehend, it being compared to something from 'Yes Minister'. Cllr Gofton suggested sending Julie Elliott a copy of the letter with a request that she follow it up.
Mosque: Representatives of Millfield Residents Association gave a report on the meeting they'd called last week which was attended by over 150 people. There'll be a protest tomorrow at 1.30 by local residents at the Civic Centre Council Chamber. Their campaign is gathering momentum.
3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports
David Lynn advised there've been no more reports of the anti-social behaviour in Croft Avenue reported at the last meeting. Any incidents can be reported on 0300 100 0101.
PC Hood gave his report for the period 26 July to 23 August 2011. He reminded residents to lock their front doors, especially those who live in the rear of their property. Graffiti problems have settled down since an offender was caught; graffiti can also be reported on the above 0300 number.
Getting his landlord to carry out repairs to a door was a problem for one resident. David Lynn asked anyone with problems of this nature to ring him on 561 7886 and an officer will contact the landlord.
During a discussion on drugs, PC Hood advised that houses where drugs are grown can be spotted as curtains are permanently closed and there's condensation on windows.
4. St Luke's Terrace Shopping Parade – Planning Application for Cafe/Restaurant
The Development Control Sub-Committee met on 16th August and David Campbell spoke well against the application, quoting the Council's Unitary Development Plan. According to the planning officer there is sufficient parking but we feel this is a big issue. Despite concerns being raised by the Sub-Committee members themselves, they voted unanimously to approve the application as recommended by the planning officer. Cllr Iain Kay showed support for the residents but had to abstain from voting as he was seen to have a biased interest. We were very disappointed, feeling the outcome was cut and dry before we sat down. The Council don't seem to be listening to what the community wants. Local residents have to tolerate cooking smells, rubbish and car parking but have no say in what's going on. We intend to complain about the Sub-Committee as, although councillors expressed the same concerns as us, they didn't vote against the recommendation to approve the application.
5. Parking Management Scheme
A workshop briefing was held on 23 August with Ken Heads, James Newell and councillors Blackburn, Dixon, Gofton and Morrissey. They're looking to have everything on track for 1st December unless they encounter legal objections during the public consultation period. There'll be walkabout meetings on 13th September comprising Ken Heads, residents, and councillors starting at 2.30pm at St Gabriels church, 4pm at Wilson St/Hylton Road, and 5pm at Jackson St/Chester Road. The idea is to point out where signs and double yellow lines are to be sited for the pilot scheme.
A survey of the wider area will be carried out to get a snapshot of residents' and commuter parking on one day in October. The results will be compared with a 2nd survey in the spring 2011 which will show where parking has migrated to. We've asked for reassurance that those streets which voted in favour of the scheme but were excluded from the pilot, will be included when it rolls out. We'd also like it extending to include weekends.
We've written to the Hospital with our view that their new parking-eye system will make things worse. There are empty parking spaces on an evening but drivers are parking in our streets as they don't want to pay the hospital's charges.
6. Extension of Temporary Traffic Regulation Order 2009 – Chester Road/Ormonde Street etc.
At the meeting of 23rd August James Newell confirmed we're getting our right-turn back at Ormonde Street; those further down Chester Road will remain. To keep traffic flowing, traffic up and down Chester Road will get a double-cycle at the lights, and the timing sequence will be altered. We can't get our pedestrian crossing back but they're hoping to put in a pedestrian refuge to the west of Ewesley Road. A new TRO has been published for the hospital area.
7. Treasurer's Report
We have money for our needs and no expenses.
8. Blog and Facebook Update
Facebook: one member has been removed but more have joined. Blog: minutes have been posted.
9. Any Other Business
Newsletter: We need volunteers to help distribute at least 2000 copies. We cover a large area.
Refuse Collections: Cllr Watson asked if we could let him have our thoughts on what the Council could do about collections, eg they're emptying green bins about 1/3 full every week but garden refuse bins only every 2 weeks. Is this enough in summer? What about the size of bins? He'd appreciate some feedback.
10. Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 4th October 2011 at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall. Everyone Welcome
Friday, 2 September 2011
BPMRA on Facebook
Barnes, Pallion and Millfield Residents Association has it's own group on Facebook.
It provides a friendly forum to chat about local issues and find out what's happening in the area.
Join us here on Facebook
It provides a friendly forum to chat about local issues and find out what's happening in the area.
Join us here on Facebook
Thursday, 1 September 2011
Minutes of August Meeting
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday 2nd August 2011 at 7.00 pm
in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall
2. Matters arising from the Minutes
Rubbish at rear of Kayll Rd/Bexley St: Sue reported that the rubbish has been cleared; when it reappears that too is taken away. Cllr Watson advised that if bins are still out 2 days after collection they will be taken away and residents quoted 2 examples of bins being out for much longer periods. Ann will notify Tony Hall, the Council's Environmental Health Enforcement Officer, tomorrow. Anyone can report such instances by phoning the Council's Contact Centre 520 5503.
Millfield Walkabout: Cllrs Kay and Scanlon reported on the recent walkabout around the Hylton Road area. The turnout was excellent and a kind shopkeeper gave everyone cover during a torrential downpour. Looked at goods placed on pavements and the number of cars for sale; both matters are receiving attention. Options to improve the crossing at Aldi/St Marks Road are being considered and money may be available for such works. Also noted were the number of vacant shops, broken fencing, pot-holes and rubbish. The official leading the walk is preparing a draft report on the findings.
3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports
Steve Kell reported that the Anti-Social Behaviour officers continue to work with the police. He's currently involved in resolving problems in Croft Avenue. A resident reported hearing that neighbours had kicked a young child's toys down that street and described living there as a 'nightmare'. Steve asked that such incidents be reported to him so he can take action and Cllr Kay offered to help in this instance.
Regarding the report of overgrown weeds on the forecourt of a house in Aiskell Street, Steve advised that as it's not unlawful no-one can intervene. A Pallion resident reported that her area is peaceful now. More residents from the Exeter/Edwin Street area attended the last police meeting.
Susan thanked Steve for his attendance tonight.
4. St Luke's Terrace Shopping Parade – Planning Application
Cllr Watson advised that the application will be judged at the planning meeting. It's the councillors' job to represent the views of the community and everyone he's spoken to thinks it's ridiculous to have another takeaway here. Given the choice of an empty shop or a takeaway, he'd prefer a takeaway which produces rates and an owner who should take care of the building. But as the majority of residents object, he'll put the residents' case against it. However, planning decisions must be made on material considerations, eg parking, and it's unlikely the councillors will go against the officers' recommendations. He'll probably abstain or vote against it. The application will be considered by the Development Control South Sunderland Sub-Committee on 16th August at 4.30pm in Committee Room 2. David Campbell will try to attend and present his views at the meeting.
The problem of encouraging birds by feeding them was also discussed.
5. Extension of Temporary Traffic Regulation Order 2009 – Chester Road/Ormonde Street etc.
Susan reported that Council officials have observed the traffic and pedestrians in this area. As a result they may reinstate the right turn into Ormonde Street when the TRO ends in November. A filter lane is being considered. Pedestrian crossing could be via a new refuge at St Gabriels Ave/Ewesley Rd and they're looking at tweaking the timing of the traffic lights at the hospital. To date there have been few complaints about right turn restrictions into the streets below Ormonde Street but increased traffic in the ABC streets was observed.
6. Parking Management Scheme
Susan reported that she and Linda have met with James Newell and Ken Heads and complained we've been left in the dark for too long. Officials went ahead before we were given the results of the vote. A Workshop meeting by the end of the month has been promised. Also, a walkabout will be arranged to see if markers have been correctly placed and Linda and Susan have asked to join them; Linda Scanlon asked to be included too. We can make objections when the Public Notice is published, eg to the position of yellow lines and to Dilston/Angrove Gardens being excluded from the Scheme despite a majority vote in favour.
The pilot scheme will go ahead as planned and reviewed after 6 months. We would like streets which will be affected by the pilot scheme to be included in the PMS before it's rolled out to other parts of the city.
Susan also reported that the Royal Hospital is installing CCTV and a 'parking eye' which recognises car registration plates. Parking will be for 2 hours. It's cheaper to park in Debenham's car park; patients don't want to pay for parking at the hospital. Management appear to be only concerned about themselves and Susan wondered if they could be invited to our next Workshop.
7. Treasurer's Report
No claims for expenses have been submitted. Susan stated she'll need paper for the Newsletter which is being prepared.
8. Blog and Facebook Update
David reported that Facebook now has 46 members.
9. Any Other Business
Spark FM: Linda, Susan and Paul Dixon have been interviewed about our work by Sam Willey.
Shakleton House: This government building has been empty since 2008. Discussion took place on such buildings, the property and responsibility of Crown Estates but paid for by the taxpayer. Although it was agreed that another use for the buildings would be desirable, it was pointed out there is no money available to do anything. However, we'll approach Julie Elliott MP about this subject.
Probate Office: A resident felt there should be one in Sunderland. Cllr Watson pointed out that Newcastle has been nominated the administrative centre for the north east. Despite this, he's trying to get a more even distribution of government offices.
Potholes: Were reported in Ewesley Rd, St Gabriels Estate and Victory Street and the back lane to Kayll Rd.
Mosque: Cllr Kay reported that the Mosque committee could be close to making a commitment, although no planning application has been received and the matter must remain confidential. The value of the property is assessed by an independent agent and the Council must achieve that full market value when it's sold. Cllr Scanlon reported that if successful, parking would be within the boundaries of the building, the building will be improved and there'll be nothing out of the ordinary, eg minarets. They would be happy to talk to us if invited to one of our meetings.
Car Theft: A recent break-in on Henderson Road resulted in only the car being stolen as the driver had left keys near the front door. David will put a note on Facebook about the dangers of leaving keys accessible.
10. Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 6th September 2011 at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall.
in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall
2. Matters arising from the Minutes
Rubbish at rear of Kayll Rd/Bexley St: Sue reported that the rubbish has been cleared; when it reappears that too is taken away. Cllr Watson advised that if bins are still out 2 days after collection they will be taken away and residents quoted 2 examples of bins being out for much longer periods. Ann will notify Tony Hall, the Council's Environmental Health Enforcement Officer, tomorrow. Anyone can report such instances by phoning the Council's Contact Centre 520 5503.
Millfield Walkabout: Cllrs Kay and Scanlon reported on the recent walkabout around the Hylton Road area. The turnout was excellent and a kind shopkeeper gave everyone cover during a torrential downpour. Looked at goods placed on pavements and the number of cars for sale; both matters are receiving attention. Options to improve the crossing at Aldi/St Marks Road are being considered and money may be available for such works. Also noted were the number of vacant shops, broken fencing, pot-holes and rubbish. The official leading the walk is preparing a draft report on the findings.
3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports
Steve Kell reported that the Anti-Social Behaviour officers continue to work with the police. He's currently involved in resolving problems in Croft Avenue. A resident reported hearing that neighbours had kicked a young child's toys down that street and described living there as a 'nightmare'. Steve asked that such incidents be reported to him so he can take action and Cllr Kay offered to help in this instance.
Regarding the report of overgrown weeds on the forecourt of a house in Aiskell Street, Steve advised that as it's not unlawful no-one can intervene. A Pallion resident reported that her area is peaceful now. More residents from the Exeter/Edwin Street area attended the last police meeting.
Susan thanked Steve for his attendance tonight.
4. St Luke's Terrace Shopping Parade – Planning Application
Cllr Watson advised that the application will be judged at the planning meeting. It's the councillors' job to represent the views of the community and everyone he's spoken to thinks it's ridiculous to have another takeaway here. Given the choice of an empty shop or a takeaway, he'd prefer a takeaway which produces rates and an owner who should take care of the building. But as the majority of residents object, he'll put the residents' case against it. However, planning decisions must be made on material considerations, eg parking, and it's unlikely the councillors will go against the officers' recommendations. He'll probably abstain or vote against it. The application will be considered by the Development Control South Sunderland Sub-Committee on 16th August at 4.30pm in Committee Room 2. David Campbell will try to attend and present his views at the meeting.
The problem of encouraging birds by feeding them was also discussed.
5. Extension of Temporary Traffic Regulation Order 2009 – Chester Road/Ormonde Street etc.
Susan reported that Council officials have observed the traffic and pedestrians in this area. As a result they may reinstate the right turn into Ormonde Street when the TRO ends in November. A filter lane is being considered. Pedestrian crossing could be via a new refuge at St Gabriels Ave/Ewesley Rd and they're looking at tweaking the timing of the traffic lights at the hospital. To date there have been few complaints about right turn restrictions into the streets below Ormonde Street but increased traffic in the ABC streets was observed.
6. Parking Management Scheme
Susan reported that she and Linda have met with James Newell and Ken Heads and complained we've been left in the dark for too long. Officials went ahead before we were given the results of the vote. A Workshop meeting by the end of the month has been promised. Also, a walkabout will be arranged to see if markers have been correctly placed and Linda and Susan have asked to join them; Linda Scanlon asked to be included too. We can make objections when the Public Notice is published, eg to the position of yellow lines and to Dilston/Angrove Gardens being excluded from the Scheme despite a majority vote in favour.
The pilot scheme will go ahead as planned and reviewed after 6 months. We would like streets which will be affected by the pilot scheme to be included in the PMS before it's rolled out to other parts of the city.
Susan also reported that the Royal Hospital is installing CCTV and a 'parking eye' which recognises car registration plates. Parking will be for 2 hours. It's cheaper to park in Debenham's car park; patients don't want to pay for parking at the hospital. Management appear to be only concerned about themselves and Susan wondered if they could be invited to our next Workshop.
7. Treasurer's Report
No claims for expenses have been submitted. Susan stated she'll need paper for the Newsletter which is being prepared.
8. Blog and Facebook Update
David reported that Facebook now has 46 members.
9. Any Other Business
Spark FM: Linda, Susan and Paul Dixon have been interviewed about our work by Sam Willey.
Shakleton House: This government building has been empty since 2008. Discussion took place on such buildings, the property and responsibility of Crown Estates but paid for by the taxpayer. Although it was agreed that another use for the buildings would be desirable, it was pointed out there is no money available to do anything. However, we'll approach Julie Elliott MP about this subject.
Probate Office: A resident felt there should be one in Sunderland. Cllr Watson pointed out that Newcastle has been nominated the administrative centre for the north east. Despite this, he's trying to get a more even distribution of government offices.
Potholes: Were reported in Ewesley Rd, St Gabriels Estate and Victory Street and the back lane to Kayll Rd.
Mosque: Cllr Kay reported that the Mosque committee could be close to making a commitment, although no planning application has been received and the matter must remain confidential. The value of the property is assessed by an independent agent and the Council must achieve that full market value when it's sold. Cllr Scanlon reported that if successful, parking would be within the boundaries of the building, the building will be improved and there'll be nothing out of the ordinary, eg minarets. They would be happy to talk to us if invited to one of our meetings.
Car Theft: A recent break-in on Henderson Road resulted in only the car being stolen as the driver had left keys near the front door. David will put a note on Facebook about the dangers of leaving keys accessible.
10. Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 6th September 2011 at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall.
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