TESCO PLANNING APPEAL

Regrettably Tesco won their appeal to unload Lorries in the main Charminster Rd.

Our representatives attending the appeal report that unloading must be between the hours of 6am - 8am, and 6pm -8pm. The Forum request that residents be vigilant and report breaches of non compliance of Tesco if and when they occur as there is concern about the traffic congestion that the Lorries will produce.

It was suggested at the appeal that the Lorries be restricted as to their size and tonnage; to date-no time has been set for that consultation to take place.

Also at Charminster Rd, C.C.T.V. cameras are to be installed.

PLANNING NEWS

It is worth noting that perhaps economic forces will have considerable impact regarding the development of inappropriate flats in the ward, however currently, planning has been rejected for 2 small houses on amenity ground at 134/134A Richmond Park Rd.

TRANSPORT - BUS ROUTES - DISABLED CAR SHARE SCHEME

There is considerable concern regarding the withdrawal of bus routes and evening/weekend services effectively imposing a ‘curfew’ on bus users.

The Forum recognises that this current practice is in conflict with ’green’ policies and the importance of Richmond Park Rd being a major ’strategic transport link’ with other destinations.

The Forum seeks to work with the appropriate agencies in order that a resolution is sought as it effects so many vulnerable residents. It may be of assistance to inform the public that there is a ’B.A.T.’ bus (Bournemouth Accessible Transport) operating services for disabled users between Castlepoint Sovereign Centre and Bournemouth Hospital.

There is also a SOCIAL CAR SHARE SCHEME whereby users living at BH1 to BH11 post codes can ask for a car to convey them at a reduced fare.

In order to access the scheme, users must register ; the annual fee is £4 - £6.

For more information on this service contact Alison Morrison on 01202 399700. It is a wonderful service but not nearly advertised enough.

PROBLEM PATH

The footpath which joins Lowther and Milton Roads has been the subject of ongoing anti-social behavior and drug usage.

Nearby residents are seeking a solution to the problem and it has been proposed that public consultation be sought with a view to either closing the footpath or ‘gating’ it.

Other suggestions include better lighting and maintenance of shrubbery. Community Police Officer Mike Lowther has organised new shifts for the police to patrol the footpath in the evenings in an attempt to restrict the anti social activities reported.

It is a recognised fact that anti-social behaviour is a symptom of greater problems linked with the night time economy, houses of multiple occupation, drinking and drug usage.

The public are the ‘eyes and ears of the community,’ crime impacts upon us all. We can assist by informing our local COMMUNITY POLICE SUPPORT TEAM ON: 01202 222222.

Local Improvement Fund

The L.I.F. is a pot of cash allocated by ward councillors allowing local improvements in the ward: This could be new public facilities or enhancing old ones. 

To allocate cash for projects requires the signatures of TWO councillors.  This presents a problem when the area is covered by three councillors and two belong to the same party.

In the interest of encouraging the majority to liaise and work with the minority, the Forum thought it more democratic (and less divisive), if ALL THREE COUNCILLORS had to agree and sign for the fund..

This would make for a fairer system and encourage councillors to work together and consult their constituents more fully.

Opposition guidelines

The Forum is not against plans in their entirety, but does take an exception to developments which are substandard, inappropriate and unsustainable. We would like to remind residents that (when opposing plans), you must have ten separate letters   of objection in order to ensure that the proposed development has to go to the Planning Board for consideration. 

The Board can be attended by those opposing the plans and request to speak.

Petitions count as only one letter of objection.

Standard printed duplicate letters (for your neighbours to address and sign) count but carry less weight. 

It is advisable to have three differently worded versions.

There are specific aspects of inappropriate design which can be cited as good reason as to why you feel a plan should be refused.

There are advisors at the Forum who can explain these.