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BROMPTON VILLAGE ASSOCIATION
DRAFT MINIUTES agreed at Committee 6th September 2009. For approval at next AGM 2010
AGM 19th July 2009 at 17.00hrs
Attendance (20)
John Jones (Chairman), John Stewart, Elaine Fowler, Jeremy Iles-North, Nettie Iles-North, Gareth Pahl, Craig Stevens, Myles Cliffe, Noreen Clare, Nick Larkin, Lissie Larkin, Joanne Cable, Clive Perry, Karen Perry, Stuart Weaver, Jan Weaver, Alan Carter, Sue Bach, Carmel Weitzmann.
Bill Esterson – Ward Councillor
Apologies
Mark Dennis, Victoria Dennis, John Brice, Mike Batterham, Gaye Daniels, Rik Masterton,
Ann Brown.
The Chairman welcomed Members, old and new, and also Bill Esterson, Ward Councillor.
The World Heritage Bid – Update
Joanne Cable reported that the bid was proceeding. At present we are on the short list together with a site in the Lake District. However there is concern that the Government may not support future bids
She reported that funding is now in place for development of the Great Lines Heritage Park, and that initial planning applications have been lodged for upgrading of the four present entrances and for a new entrance off Brompton Road. (MC2009/0937)
(Members are encouraged to register their interest on www.chathamworldheritage.org.uk to receive regular updates)
Chairman’s Report
John Jones reported
Success:
- There had been four successful litter picks. General street cleaning had been improved.
- The Carnival in the Park had been a great success.
- The Bangers & Mash evening was enjoyed.
- Gardens & open spaces. The open gardens competition showed some splendid displays.
- The Military is now taking good care of the Paddock, which is very much appreciated.
- Members have been made welcome at quiz nights held by Melville Court Tenants Association
- The website is up and running, but to keep it fresh it needs regular contributions from members..
The Chairman thanked Gareth Pahl for (2 & 3), Nettie Iles-North for (1), Jeremy Iles-North for (7), Bill Esterson & Craig Mackinlay (our Ward Councillors) for funding events and local businesses for providing prizes.
Failure:
- There are continuing problems with mounting the Village Notice board.
- Efforts in hand to require the Council to maintain street greenery i.e. hedges in Prospect Row.
External
- The Association is actively involved with the World Heritage bid.
- The Chairman attends the Parks & Urban Spaces Forum
Planning Issues 2008-09
John Stewart reported
Amherst Field is currently up for auction and we understand that three bids are currently being considered. The selling agent has stated that the Council would permit at least 34 private dwellings. The Association feels that a smaller footprint would be desirable.
Joanne Cable informed the meeting that before planning applications could be submitted there would be consultation with the World Heritage and Great Lines Heritage Park Partnerships and, hopefully, other interested parties including the Association.
Lampard Centre Plans to relocate the centre in Sally Port were passed some time ago, but there have been no signs of activity. The Association did submit that it could be opened for community use, but we are informed that the project is military funded for military use.
Esso garage – Dock Road There has been no activity on this site and the original planning permission for flats must now be out of time.
Golden Lion The property now has permanent residents, which improves security, but the future of the licensed premises is still uncertain.
Coal yard Westcourt Street A planning application (MC2008/1664) to redevelop this site with six self-contained flats was refused by the Council. An appeal has been lodged, but no decision date has been given as yet.
There were three private planning applications, which were refused. Two were allowed on appeal with modifications. One was refused. The Association was able to give support on all.
The applicants incurred considerable expense. There are planning, building and conservation regulations to be considered. It is strongly advised to prepare applications carefully with detailed plans and specifications. If you require advice from the Council on the necessity for compliance with any of these regulations, request in writing. One department has been known to counter verbal advice giving by another.
We will endeavour to inform all members of planning applications and invite comments.
Treasure’s Report
Elaine Fowler reported:
Resolution
“That the name of the BROMPTON CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION
be changed to BROMPTON VILLAGE ASSOCIATION”
The Meeting considered that this would widen the remit and appeal of the Association. It was not considered that the change would inhibit our representations to outside bodies.
The motion was carried with one abstention.
Election of Chair for 2009-2010
John Jones was proposed and was elected nem con
Election of Committee
The Chairman proposed the following formal appointments:
- Secretary – John Stewart
- Treasurer – Elaine Fowler
- Web Master – Jeremy Iles-North
- Community & Social Champion – Gareth Pahl
These were agreed by the Meeting
Future
The Fete and Bangers & Mash night were a success and are markers for similar future events. However, considerably more help from members will be required.
High Street. There is continuing concern about the future of the High Street. There is rumour that another business may close and the viability of the street threatened
The general appearance of he High Street is of concern. If the Trade Association still exists it will be asked if individual traders could look after their own frontages.
Nettie Isles-North had asked the Council for another litterbin, and was informed that there only one old-fashioned style available. She wondered if all could be replaced with heritage style bins. Joanne Cable offered that the funding might be available from her Heritage Fund. There is a time limit for applications for this year’s allocation.
Village sign. There is still a desire for one, but considerable work is needed before funding can be applied for.
Sport. The junior football team formed last year has faded. We still would like to promote some sporting activity for children in the village.
Conclusion
Members are encouraged to introduce a friend or neighbour to the mailing list.
Clive Perry proposed a vote of thanks to the Committee for the year’s activities
The meeting closed at 18.30hrs
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