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.