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.

September Meeting: Tuesday 4th

Apologies for a lack of posts recently. A lot has been happening with the Resident's Association, come along to our meeting Tomorrow Tuesday 4th September at 7pm in St Mary Magdalenes Church Hall (this month in the upper room) to find out more. The agenda includes a follow up on the issues raise last month (see minutes below), crime, anti-social behaviour and environmental (e.g. waste and dog fouling) issues, update on phase two of the residents parking scheme and the hospital multi-storey car park.
All are welcome.

Last months meeting included our AGM and election (or re-election) of the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. Many thanks to Susan, Linda, Ann and Elizabeth for all their hard work.

Minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 7th August:

1. Election of Officers/Treasurers Report

A Clarkson and D Rutter counted the votes cast and announced the following were elected in accordance with the constitution: Chairman – Susan Adamson; Vice-Chairman – Linda Ranton; Treasurer – Elizabeth Lardner; Meeting Secretary – Ann Tumman.

The Treasurer's Report for the year to 31 May 2012 was circulated and accepted. The Chairman thanked the councillors for the grants received.

2. Matters arising from the Minutes
The Minutes of the meeting held on 3rd July 2012 were agreed.

Traffic Congestion – Cleveland Road/Ewesley Road: We've written to James Newell and are awaiting his response. Cllr Watson said that stationary traffic is a Council issue and moving traffic is a matter for the police.

Construction of Road Build-outs for Bus Boarders: Residents said that some roads aren't wide enough to accommodate build-outs. They suspect bus companies are looking for a reason not to run some routes.

Cllr Watson advised that the Council have applied for a government grant to do this work. Five local authorities in Tyne & Wear are trying to develop a public group which would own and run the bus routes, or issue the routes to bus companies to run. Loss-making routes are subsidised by Councils while profits are kept by the bus companies.

3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports
Cllr Kay advised that Millfield councillors have a map identifying clusters of anti-social behaviour, houses in disrepair or multi-occupation in their area. They are trying to predict or pre-empt problems by having measures in place.

A resident reported a recent incident around the RAOB club in Millfield where an old lady was terrified by young boys one night, and wondered if the community police were still patrolling the area. Susan advised that Pallion Partners and Community Together (PACT) will meet on 15th August at 7pm at Pallion Action Group, whilst the Millfield meeting will be held on 8th August at 7pm in St Mark's.

A Ewesley Road resident reported seeing a man sat on a neighbour's back yard wall. When confronted he jumped on to a waiting lorry. Pallion residents have seen similar incidents and have given vehicle registrations to the police. A Priory Grove resident inadvertently left her car unlocked on the drive and by next morning the glove compartment had been ransacked by an opportunist thief.

A recent visit by gypsies to the Pallion area was discussed. It was felt the police could have taken more control.

4. Environmental Matters
Dog Fouling and Litter: Residents said that signs aren't enough. St Gabriel's estate is a mess, as is a stretch of road along the metro line between Pallion and Millfield. More dog bins are needed. If there are no bins, people can't use them. More litter bins are needed in the Sorley Street, Brunton Terrace, and Chester Road area and in Pocket Park, while those that exist need emptying more often. Cllr Watson advised that it is national public policy not to have someone cleaning up after us but to promote responsible citizenship. More education and fines are needed.

Walk and Talk Tours: Cllr Scanlan advised these will resume in September in all areas and councillors would welcome suggestions for areas to walk around. Pocket Park was proposed.

5. Parking Management Scheme – Phase 2
Susan reported that a working group meeting was held on 1st August. Ken Heads had circulated draft leaflets to be sent to residents at the end of August. We've suggested some amendments to simplify the information but the presentation is good. The voting period will be the whole of September. There will be 3 consultation days and we will be involved in them. The Council are seeking an 80% response rate. Another meeting is planned for 5th September.

Cllr Kay asked if abstentions would be counted as a NO vote again and Susan confirmed this is the case. He added that there are 300+ known empty properties in Millfield, some of which will be in the voting area. Susan advised it is intended that a panel of ward councillors make the final decision on which streets are offered parking permits.

Hospital Multi-Storey Car Park:

• Susan reported that the hospital has told Street Scene that over 300 parking spaces will be lost while the multi-storey is being built. However, the Residents are looking to have the PMS in place before building work starts.

• Cllr Watson said we should not make the hospital inoperable by implementing the scheme before the proposed multi-storey is complete, although he didn't actually know when that would be.

• Susan explained that the Council's Street Scene officers will be meeting the hospital to help and encourage them to organise staff car sharing, metro passes etc. She said the hospital should be sorting out the problem, not impacting further on the residents. The PMS has forced the hospital into deciding to build a multi-storey. This delaying tactic was predicted.

• Linda pointed out that our PMS is for only 2-hours a day - 1 hour morning and afternoon - 5-days a week, which won't prevent hospital patients and visitors parking. Residents have sympathy with the visitors. Staffs at hospitals with all-day parking restrictions manage to find a way of getting to work.

• A resident advised that the existing Park and Ride scheme starts too late and finishes too early for it to be used by many hospital staff working long hours.

• Cllr Watson said that if this problem goes to the politicians on the Planning and Highways Committee for a delegated decision, as it should, they will be persuaded by the argument that a delay of 6 months before implementation of the PMS would be sensible. They will make an evidence-based judgement on why Phase 2 shouldn't go ahead.

• Susan commented that as the hospital hasn't even submitted a planning application yet, they have nothing to lose by waiting to see how far the PMS is extended before starting work.

• Linda thought that as the hospital is run as a business, it should be treated as a business. Instead of asking for the scheme to be delayed for 6 months they should be asking what they can do to help their staff and patients.

• Linda added that residents should not be asked to 'back off'. The Council made a mistake in the past concerning hospital planning permission. They should now rectify their mistake by supporting the residents and saying the PMS will go ahead as planned.

• Cllr Watson said if the hospital demonstrates that the public interest is best served by a delay of 6 months, he believes that the Planning & Highways Committee will be sympathetic to the hospital. He added we need to talk to the hospital and listen to their arguments.

• The residents doubted whether the hospital will listen to them. However they agreed to await the Street Scene officers report and to try once more to get the hospital to come along to a meeting.

8. Any Other Business
Mosque – St Mark's Road: Phil Pike has attended a recent Council meeting and made representations regarding the mosque. Many people were unhappy with the outcome of that meeting. Phil is determined not to let the matter lie and has done a lot of ground work. If anyone wants to know what he's doing, he can be contacted at Pike.2@virginmedia.com.

Replacement Dustbin: A Bexley Street resident has asked the Council 3 times for a replacement bin without success. Cllr Scanlan offered to help.

Pallion Inn: Can it be confirmed that the Inn will become a Tesco Express? Residents are concerned about the parking. The councillors have no knowledge of any plan.

Potentially Dangerous Property – Percival Street: A resident reported that workmen have identified that there is nothing to support the roof purlins in an adjoining property. Cllrs Watson/Scanlan will take this up with Building Control.

Tree Roots – Brookland Road: A resident reported that roots are lifting a flagstone. An engineer called 6 months ago and promised to check in 6 months. He hasn't returned despite a phone call. . Cllrs Watson/Scanlan will investigate.

Council Neighbourhood Help Line: Susan has had reports of poor service from 0300 1000 101 staff who seem to be ill-informed. Cllr Watson said staff will be given more training as the Council intend to migrate more services to this number. At the moment staff are still on a learning curve. He will do a 'secret shopper' exercise.

Subsidence: Bexley Street: A resident has reported this but it has not yet been actioned. Cllr Scanlan will pursue this matter.

Free Insulation/Central Heating Repairs: Cllr Kay circulated Sunderland Age UK leaflets for anyone wanting a grant from this scheme which will end this year.

Hearing Dogs for the Deaf: K Wilkinson reported that Soroptomists International are doing a charity walk in September. You can take your dog along. He will follow up with more information.

Distribution of Newsletter: S Rackstraw will co-ordinate their issue to volunteers.

9. Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 4th September at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's Parish and Community Hall, Upper Room.

The meeting closed at 8.40 pm.

Annual General Meeting: Tuesday 7th august

Our next meeting will also be our AGM. Held as usual in St Mary Magdalenes Church Hall, Wilson Street at 7pm, all are welcome to join us.

The agenda and minutes of the previous meeting will be posted here a few days before the meeting.

Meeting Minutes

We are meeting Tomorrow, Tuesday 3rd July, 7pm at St Mary Magdalene's hall. The agenda includes crime and anti-social behaviour, environmental issues, an update on the parking management scheme plans and transport users issues. All welcome.

Minutes of the last meeting, held on Tuesday 12th June:

1. Welcome and Apologies:                                        Susan welcomed Fiona Burrell, Empty Properties Officer, and PC Kevin Hood.  Apologies were received from L. Ranton; Council Officers: B Blackett, M Fascia and D Lynn;  Councillors: L Scanlan, A Wilson, R Atkinson, M Essl,

 

2. Minutes:  Amendment to the Minutes of the meeting held on 1^st May 2012: H Izacks to read H Izaks.

 

2. Matters arising from the Minutes:  Condition of Roads: Abingdon Street and St Gabriels Estate: A reply dated 21^st May has been received from the Council's Highway Asset Management team which:

• acknowledges residents' concerns about the condition of the streets. 
• says that resurfacing or patching is based on location, traffic volumes and condition
• advises that this year's programme includes the surfacing of Ewesley Road and Priory Grove from Chester Road to Belmont Road. 

Sorley Street residents reported that there are potholes 5" deep in their street.  Susan agreed that some streets are deplorable. Her reply to the letter points out that some streets are now dangerous.

 

3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports:              PC Hood reported that PACT meetings covering combined areas of Millfield, Deptford and Pallion will resume shortly.  Pallion residents advised that there will be a Pallion PACT meeting at 5pm on 11^th July at Pallion Action Group.

Kevin gave his report for the periods 27 March-24 April and 24 April-22 May 2012 and thanked Kate for her Powerpoint presentation last month.  

Kevin advised keeping garden furniture out of sight to prevent theft.  A scheme has been introduced whereby second-hand shops on Hylton Road are logging thumb prints as identification.   

Fiona Burrell reported that an empty Brady Street property has now been boarded up.  The Duncan Street property mentioned last month is now occupied. 

Fiona also advised that owners pay no Council tax on empty properties for the first 6 months, but thereafter pay the full amount, raised from 50% in April 2012.  Landlords are interested in selling but are finding this difficult at the moment.  The Empty Properties team have been granted government funding to purchase empty, run-down properties and bring them up to standard for managed letting.  Sunderland has a credited landlord scheme where properties are inspected and landlords are required to vet tenants.

 

4. Environmental Issues:              A Sorley Street resident reported the problem of tipping in the back lane.  This includes furniture, tyres and toys and is creating disgusting smells.  Cllr Kay advised that Michael Fascia is aware of it.   PC Hood added that the police have an on-going operation and are reporting these matters to the Council.

Susan has been asked to raise the matter of increased dog fouling on St Gabriel's estate.  Residents from all areas agreed –dog fouling is a big problem.  Susan will ask if more bins can be provided. 

 

5. Parking Management Scheme – Introduction of Phase 2         

Working Group Meeting: Susan reported that the meeting on 22^nd May had been productive. 

• Council officers had produced a draft plan showing blocks of potential streets to be included in the next phase, including the ABC streets.  
• Only residents within the blocks will be asked to vote.  Voting principles will be as last time. 
• Susan had proposed that abstentions and empty properties be voided rather than counted as ' no' votes and was supported in this by Cllr Wilson.  However, the officer had advised that any changes to the voting criteria would require a policy decision taken by our elected representatives.  He suggested instead that, if a vote is close, a panel could look at the circumstances of individual streets. 
• The officers are keen to extend the scheme as soon as possible, hopefully before the end of this financial year.  They are aware that building the multi-storey car park will create further disruption.

A resident asked if we could have the opportunity to see the consultation documents before general circulation.  Susan will make this request at the next Working Group Meeting on 27^th June.

Proposed Hospital Multi-Storey Car Park Susan has received a letter dated 28 May from the Hospital's Chief Executive advising that:

• funding has been agreed. 
• It may be built on the Kayll Road car park but the exact location has yet to be finalised.
• local residents will be involved in the consultation process. 
• it will be managed by hospital staff.
• it will create around 400 additional parking spaces, but no firm decision has been made.

PC Hood reported that he's heard today that 460 additional spaces would be created and will be in line with the Education Building.

 

6. Treasurers Report                       Elizabeth advised that due to an incorrect email address, our Community Chest application has not been dealt with.  She has since reapplied.  In the meantime, we still have funds.

 

7. Blog Update                                  Kate has uploaded some of the information contained in her presentation.  She'd welcome any issues/photos to include on the blog.

 

8. Any Other Business

BPMRA Newsletter:                        Susan circulated draft copies of the Newsletter for comment and asked for volunteers to deliver it.  The Treasurer asked that we acknowledge that we are partly supported by a grant from Sunderland City Council's Community Chest.  PC Hood asked if his email address could be added for anyone wanting confidential advice, and his telephone number: 101 ext 66119 (Millfield and Deptford).

Tyne & Wear Public Transport Users Group:  Helmut Izaks reported he's been appointed to the group which lobbies Nexus and the Passenger Transport Executive about all forms of public transport.  The group feels bus users should have a greater role in deciding how to deliver services and that Nexus officers and councillors on the Integrated Transport Authority are entitled to become partners with the bus companies to deliver services.  They've issued a card for disabled travellers to show drivers to take account of their needs.  Nexus Community Relations Officer James Hird is willing to attend a meeting to explain their work.  Helmut also advised that foliage on the metro line between Pallion and Millfield will be cut back soon to stop rubbish.  If anyone has any problems with transport, he is happy to talk to them.  Susan suggested this be an item on the Agenda. 

 

8. Date of Next Meeting               Tuesday, 3^rd July at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalenes Church Hall.

The meeting closed at 8.00 pm.

Next Meeting: Tuesday 3rd July

Our next meeting is Tuesday 3rd at 7pm in St Mary Magdalene's Church Hall, Wilson Street. Anyone with an interest in goings on in Barnes, Pallion and Millfield are welcome to join is, including residents and local business owners. Recent meetings have covered crime and anti-social behaviour, environmental issues such as rubbish and fly tipping and problems associated with empty properties in the area. Minutes from the May meeting are posted below and for June will be posted in the next few days. Next weeks meeting will also include an update from the Hospital Area Parking Management Scheme working group which met this week to discuss the plans to extend the residents parking scheme which has been operating for six months now in a number of streets.

The working group is made up of representatives from the Residents Association, council officers involved from traffic and highways and Councillors from all three wards. We are keen to involve local business owners in the ongoing discussions about the scheme so that the needs of their businesses are met, for example to protect the shopping areas on Chester Road and Hylton Road which are a valuable resource for all of us. If you are a local business owner or know of someone who would be interested in joining us, get in touch or come along to one of our meetings. We are a friendly bunch just wanting to improve our local area.

Minutes of the Meeting held on Tuesday 1^st May 2012 

1. Welcome and Apologies:  Susan welcomed Bill Blackett, Fiona Burrell, Michael Fascia, and David Lynn, officers of Sunderland City Council and presented apologies from M Adamson, J Hickman, E Lardner and Cllr L Scanlan. 

2. Matters arising from the Minutes:     

Brookland Road:  Area Response Manager Bill Blackett apologised for the recent delay in collecting leaves.  This was due to an oversight but was dealt with promptly when the matter was brought to his attention.  He advised that the problem regarding the grass verges is city-wide and to replace them in concrete/tarmac would require funding.  Also, the Council have a policy to keep the city as green as possible. The Pallion Walk and Talk will take place shortly and Brookland Road will be on the itinerary.

Linda reported she'd written to the Council on 18^th April regarding the verges.  She's received a reply from the Highways Department stating that parking issues should be alleviated when the parking scheme is introduced and "it would therefore seem prudent to wait until the scheme is implemented and monitor the condition of the grass verges rather than carry out any works at this time."

3. Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Reports: David Lynn, the Council's Anti-Social Behaviour Officer dealing predominantly with privately owned properties, advised he is currently working on cases relating to youth disorder in Pallion.  A resident reported that an elderly lady has been threatened and is afraid to leave her home.  David advised that leaflets have been circulated in the Neville Road area recently and is aware of some problems but possibly not this particular issue.  He asked that his telephone number, 561 7886, be given to the lady concerned and he'll talk to her in strict confidence.  A 24-hour phone line is also available to report any issues to the Council – 0300 1000 101, or to the police on the non-emergency number of 101.  Only by reporting problems can 'hot spots' be identified for extra attention.

Susan commented that there seems to be a pattern of solving one problem, only for another to take its place.  We need the Pallion PACT meetings to keep in touch. 

A problem with loud music from an apparently empty property in Duncan Street was also reported.  This was noted by Fiona Burrell, the Council's Empty Properties Officer.

Kate gave a Powerpoint presentation she'd prepared based on data supplied by PC Kevin Hood over the last 12 months.  This information in graph and chart form showed the spread of crime over the area.  Anti-social behaviour was the biggest problem, followed by theft from cars.  Although there was no clear pattern for the other categories or areas, warmer weather appears to encourage more crime.  Mark Greenfield thanked Kate and congratulated her on her presentation.  Kate will make this available to be viewed on the blog.  Susan commented that the multi-agency approach to crime and anti-social behaviour appears to be working in our area.

4. Environmental Issues The issue of bins being left out in back lanes and set on fire was raised.  Cllr Dixon reported that since Michael Fascia's team tackled this problem in the Millfield area, such fires are now a rare occurrence.  Michael, an Environmental Enforcement Officer, advised this work will be replicated in Pallion.  He's hand-delivered 'softley worded' Section 46 letters to addresses in Neville Road and subsequent checking revealed no bins had been left out.  He'll start on the Eastmoor Road area soon.  Landlords failing to carry out necessary works to secure and clear yards will be served a formal Section 92 notice requiring them to do the works. 

Fiona Burrell advised that Pallion has around the average number of empty properties for the city which she's targeting to see what help can be given to get properties occupied again.  Barnes area has slightly increased numbers but is still below city-average.  Fiona reported there are new government schemes offering loans and help to bring empty, run-down properties up to standard for sale or to let although it is difficult to persuade some owners to make improvements. 

5. Parking Management Scheme – Hospital Area:           

Working Group Meeting: The next meeting is on 22^nd May.  Susan advised we'll press for a date for the consultation and a timescale.  Progress has slowed right down, with the date for implementation being pushed back and back.  Residents want Phase 2 to be included in this year's funding. 

A resident commented that there are parking problems around the university too, as well as the bottom end of Sorley Street.  Cllr Dixon advised there are a number of locations where residents would like a parking scheme but he's been informed it will be at least another 2 years for any other area is considered.  The next parking scheme will be the area around the Stadium of Light.  It was felt that this area is only affected on match days and should not take priority over areas experiencing the problem every day.

Linda reported she has e-mailed Cllr Paul Watson regarding his statement that "a recent survey indicated that on-street parking had decreased not only in the streets affected by the scheme but also in some of the adjacent streets, which has provided additional kerb-space parking".  This quote has appeared twice in The Echo.  Residents disagree with this statement and wondered if Cllr Watson was misquoted or if it was slip of the tongue and it was felt that if he wasn't misquoted, it doesn't bode well for the scheme being extended.  Cllr Watson's response is awaited.

Proposed Hospital Multi-Storey Car Park Susan has written to the hospital for details and is awaiting a reply.  She circulated a newspaper article showing income from hospital car parking.  Sunderland receives over £600,000 pa. from parking charges.

6. Treasurers Report  In Elizabeth's absence, Susan presented her report.  

7. Blog Update  Kate is continuing to update the site with the Minutes, contact details of various agencies and information about the parking eye situation. 

8. Any Other Business

ABC Street Road Surfaces  At Mark's request Susan has written to the Council about the potholes in this area.  Barnard St and the top of Ewesley Rd now have a new surface but Abingdon St and the bottom of Ewesley Rd must wait until next year despite its condition.  Individual pot-holes have been filled-in, not solving the problem.  Mark suggested ringing the Council as soon as another hole appears in Abingdon St.  Susan will write to the Council again.

8. Date of Next Meeting Due to the Bank Holiday on 5^th June, our next meeting will be on Tuesday, 12^th June 2012 at 7.00 pm in St Mary Magdalene's, Upstairs Room.  Beryl with notify the Echo regarding the change of week. 

The meeting closed at 8.15 pm.