Residents Association Continues as New Committee Elected.

 WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS' ASSOCIATION

MINUTES OF AN EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING HELD AT  THE SWAN HOTEL ON MONDAY 13TH  January 2020 AT 7.15P.M.

PRESENT

Gina May (Ch), and seventy two members.

APOLOGIES

There were no apologies.

Gina May opened the meeting and thanked everyone for attending.

The code of conduct was then read out.

RESIGNATIONS

The following committee resignations were handed in with regret and read out as follows: Gina May, Jacquie Agnew, Laura Shawyer, Clare Hastings, Mandy Rickett, and Linda Kiddell.

APPOINTMENT OF NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS TO VACANCIES

The following nominees had been proposed and seconded and were duly elected:--

Chairman                                 Tom King

Secretary                                 Stephanie Sutton

Treasurer                                  Jane Ashbee-Welch

Editor                                      No Nomination

Social Organiser                      Ron Rolfe

Membership Secretary            No Nomination

Press Officer                           Ash Ashbee-Welch

The new committee members then introduced themselves to those present.

Tom King, the new chairman, expressed his wish that the W&WRA will continue and will be rebuilt, and reviewed some of what it had achieved over the sixty one years of existence.

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION

Accounts.  Richard Banning, of R&B Solutions, and other members asked how members’ money had been spent, value for money and accountability.

Tom King replied that a full set of audited accounts would be made available for the AGM in May as had always been the practice, and would be available on paper or in the magazine when re-introduced.

Website.  A request for a W&WRA website was made from the floor.

Constitution.  This will be carefully looked up and recommendations made to bring it up to date.

For £3 per year subscription what do members get?  In answer to the question Tom King said there were files of issues that the W&WRA had fought on behalf of members, there is social inclusion, and representation and there will again be a magazine, and social events.

Magazine.  Derek Smith a previous editor of the W&WRA magazine said it had been difficult to obtain sufficient copy for this and had had to write up some articles himself.  A newsletter or magazine was an excellent way of maintaining communication with members.

Venue.  Several members from the floor expressed regret at the loss of the regular meeting and coffee place at the Bake House as this had facilitated contact and communication, one member had made many friends there after moving to Westgate.

Road Stewards.  Hopefully this system will be re-introduced.

Noticeboards. The one near “Krusty Cobs” will be in use, and a second one may be sought.

Councillors at Meetings.  In answer to a question councilors will be invited and welcome to attend general meetings.

MEETINGS

Next monthly general meeting will be held at the Westbrook Bowls Club on Monday 10^th February at 7.00pm for 7.15pm.

The meeting for March will be held in Westgate, and the venues will alternate as before.

Chairman Tom King thanked all for attending.

The meeting concluded at 8.09pm.

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION MEETING SEPT 2017

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE BOWLS CLUB ON MONDAY 11^th SEPTEMBER 2017 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Seventeen members, and WTC Cllr Joanna Cornford.

Members were welcomed to the meeting especially on such a wet evening, and unanimously agreed to Ray Taylor taking the chair in the absence of Mick Tomlinson. 

APOLOGIES

Apologies had been received from Don and Maureen Eacott, Vivien Osborne, Tony and Sylvia Sykes, Mick Tomlinson, and KCC Warden Laura Bungard. .  

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (14/08/17), which had been circulated were agreed as a correct record on a prop. by Tony Snow sec. by Mavis Vaughan, and adopted, and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

1)      Barnes Car Park.  Tony Snow clarified the position regarding notices.  The original notice stated “no parking for camper vans” has now been changed to  “no parking or camping overnight”.  A local resident had been seen clearing up rubbish.     

REPORTS: Councillors-KCC, TDC, WTC.  PCSOs and Wardens.

WTC Cllr Joanna Cornford:

1)      Amendments to Street Markings.  Cllr Cornford drew the meeting's attention to various roads Dunstan Avenue, St Benet's Road, and other adjacent roads where there is to be a change of  single /double yellow lines.  Full details may be seen on the TDC website.

2)      Westgate Pavilion.  This is now declared an asset of community value.

3)      Recent Town Council Meeting.  There had been a good attendance at the recent meeting in the new venue, (Christ Church Hall).  The Town Clerk has resigned, and the post has been advertised.

4)      Westgate Flowers.  It was hoped to include hanging baskets next year provided volunteers can be found to water them.  If W&WRA members can do this the appropriate baskets will be labelled “maintained by the W&WRA”.  Chris Wyer thought that use of water retention gel would help. It might be possible to use hydrants if permission is agreed.  The hanging baskets had not been very good this year, this was due to funding confusion which caused late planting.   

KCC Warden Laura Bungard:

Laura had sent in a short report as she is on holiday.  There has been considerable involvement with the removal of untaxed vehicles.  Laura is available by phone or message on 07969583922.  This number is also available at the Bake House. 

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT TDC Cllr Mick Tomlinson: (read by Ray Taylor):

1)      Mick had expressed his apologies about missing the W&WRA monthly meeting but had been called to attend an emergency extraordinary meeting of the Margate Charter Trustees.  This was to discuss monies that had been paid from Margate to the then new Westgate-on-Sea Town Council, about which a complaint had been received.  The basis on which the sum was worked out was not very clear.  Mick will give full details  at the next meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE

1)      Westgate Community Centre Quiz.  Saturday 23^rd September 7.00pm £3.00 per person.  Bring your own food and drink.

2)      Bumblebee Conservation Trust.  Funding has been secured for  this project which will commence in the Autumn.  Any additional volunteers will be welcome to join the Westbrook Group.  Full details will be given presently.

3)      Police Email Messages.  A reminder that police will never request your bank details or send somebody round to transfer money or collect your cash book/pin no/or cheque book.  Any calls of this nature are scam.     

PLANNING 

1)      Tower House, 125, Canterbury Road.  Application for new external fire escape spiral staircase torear of building and erection of outbuilding.

2)      11, Westonville Avenue.  Application for part single, part two storey rear extension.

3)      Westcliff House, 37A, Sea Road.  Application for four storey front/side and rear extension with balconies, with alterations to fenestration to facilitate conversion into twenty seven 2-bed apartments, andfour 1-bed apartments with  parking and new pedestrian access.

4)      Land Adjacent to 36, Westgate Bay Avenue.  Application for variation of condition 2 of planning permission F/TH/15/1202 for erection of three terraced dwellings to allow for reposition and enlargement of two dormer windows to the front and three to the rear elevation.

5)      11, Cliff Avenue.  Change of use from residential annexe and rear garden to school (temporary).  GRANTED.

6)      97, Sea Road.  Two storey front side and rear extensions, and balconies to front and rear.  GRANTED.

7)      Land to rear of 15, Victoria Avenue.  Erection of two storey detached dwelling.  GRANTED.

8)      38, St Mildred's Road.  Installation of two condenser units to the rear.  GRANTED.

9)      10, Mutrix Gardens.  Erection of single storey rear extension.  GRANTED.

10)  Gate Lodge, Hundreds Farm Stables, Canterbury Road.  Application for two storey side extension.

11)  33, Minster Road.  Application for erection of single storey rear and side extension following demolition of existing.

12)  31, Rancorn Road.  Variations of conditions 2 and 4 of consent F/TH/16/1502, change of use from sheltered housing to five self contained flats with single storey rear extensions following demolition of rear conservatories. GRANTED.

13)  12, Westcliff Road.  Erection of first floor rear extension, and dormer to side elevation.  GRANTED.

14)  Vodafone, 44, Station Road.  Erection of 14.4 metre monopole with three antennas to replace existing monopole. GRANTED

TREASURER'S REPORT  

Sam's report was read out by Ray:

The bank balance stood at £7,378.  Bills for Young's Nursery and the magazine printing had been paid.  £1,289 had been deposited on 21^st August which consisted of subscriptions, sales of the chairs, and quiz and tea takings.

Some advertisers had queried receiving invoices when they believed that they had already paid.  Christina Taylor thought this could be due to the fact that the invoices for last year had been sent  out late, and this year's had just gone out, and she would be checking this with Sam.

EDITOR'S REPORT

Ray Taylor reported that articles for the next issue were coming in, any more would be welcome.

The facebook page was going well. 

SUNSHINE REPORT

Mavis reported that just one get well card had been sent this month, which was for our treasurer Sam who had been injured in a fall from a horse.

 

MEMBERSHIP

Christina reported that subscriptions had mostly been paid, and there were thirty eight new members this year so far.

Members expressed their thanks for the excellent tea party and music provided to thank the  road stewards and tea/coffee staff for their hard work.

CIVIC REPORT

Westgate Heritage Centre:  Saturday 7^th October at 10.30am at St Saviour's Church, “Roxburgh Road”, an illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch. 

Margate Civic Society: Thursday 5^th October at 7.30pm at The Walpole Bay Hotel, AGM followed by a talk on “the Secret Gardens of Sandwich” by Steve Edney, (Head Gardener at The Salutation). 

PRESS REPORT

Pat Castle reported that she had sent notice of  meetings and a photograph to the Gazette.

W&WRA DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY 2018

It was agreed that a sub-committee should be formed from the membership.  The actual date of inauguration was nor known at present, but it would seem  sensible to hold the celebrations in the summer.  Possibly the Community Centre or the new centre at the Walmer Castle may be suitable venues.  Ray invited everyone to send in their ideas.

SOCIAL

1)      Party 2^nd October.

2)      A MacMillan coffee morning will be held at the Bake House on 29^th September.

3)      Sunday Lunches.  The next one to be held is on 8^th October at The Swan, list for names is in the Bake House.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Repaired Shelter.  Wood knots had come out of the side giving a tatty appearance.  Cllr Cornford said that the Financial and General Purpose committee would be dealing with this.

2)      Punch and Judy Show.  This had been much enjoyed by all.  Chris Wyer was concerned in case an ancient covenant had been contravened. 

3)      Dual Carriageway A28.  It was noted that gutters and drains near the central reservation were blocked.  This should be KCC responsibility, but if no action is taken the subject could be brought up with WTC who will press the matter with KCC.  Members' suggestions included parking bays where the kerb is wide, and speed restrictions of 20mph.

4)      Parking and Residents.  Due to the charges in TDC car parks, notably St Mildred's Bay car park, cars are parked in nearby roads, (Beach Road, Sussex Gardens etc) to the inconvenience of residents whilst the car park remains almost empty. (It was noted that the multi storey car parks in Ramsgate and Margate are free on Saturdays).

5)      Defibrillator.  A member asked where in Westgate this is kept.  Cllr Cornford agreed to find out.

6)      Westgate-on-Sea Town Council. The new office is now up and running.  The W&WRA had requested a donation towards the fund raising MacMillan's coffee morning.  It was noted that there was no mention of the W&WRA in the WTC website, this being due to a contact allegedly saying that it was not required, but it has not been possible to identify the contact concerned.

NEXT MEETING

 Monday 9^th October, at the Bake House.

Westgate and Westbrook Residents Association Meeting Minutes January 2017

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK
RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE UNITED SERVICES CLUB ON MONDAY 9th JANUARY 2017 AT 7.15PM.


PRESENT
Cllr Ash Ashbee who kindly chaired the meeting, and seventeen members. 

APOLOGIES
Apologies had been received from the chairman Cllr Mick Tomlinson, James Brazier, Janet Smith, Sylvia Sykes, and KCC Warden Laura Bungard.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING
The minutes of the last meeting, (12th December 2016), which had been circulated were  agreed and adopted.

MATTERS ARISING
1) TDC Local Planning Meeting.  Councillors had been given copies of the proposals in a document which exceeded one thousand pages, and only five days to check this through.  UKIP had amended the entry for Manston Airport land to “mixed use”. The plan was then sent to the cabinet which had passed it, so that in effect in the Draft Local Plan Manston Airport no longer exists.  There is now to be an eight week consultation with the community, and comments and objections will be collated and sent back to the cabinet and scrutiny committee, if ratified this will then be put to the full council for a vote in June.    Any houses proposed for the airport land will not cause a reduction in the  number of houses proposed elsewhere.  A DCO is being sought by the company Riveroak, for which the Secretary of State has permitted an environmental study.  Meetings in support of Manston Airport are taking place at the Winter Gardens on 4th February, and the AGM of the Save Manston Airport Group takes place on 5th February. 
2) Westbrook Avenue Crossing.  Cllr Ashbee told the meeting that the reason for the delay is that KCC are not willing to start the consultation whilst the enquiry into the road death is still ongoing.  This is further complicated by the election in May when new KCC Councillors will be elected.  For the time being it as hoped to use a flashing speed sign when available. 
3) New PCSO.  His name is Tom Daley and he will be taking up duties in Westgate shortly.

REPORTS: Councillors-KCC, TDC, WTC.  PCSOs and Wardens.

KCC Warden Laura Bungard:  Laura's report was read to the meeting.
Laura did not have anything out of the ordinary to report, and had attended the usual call outs, and wished everyone a happy new year.  



TDC Councillor Ash Ashbee:
1) Dog Excrement.  Cllr Ashby has asked for more bins along the coastal paths as some have been lost.  It had also been noticed that sometimes the speed of the FIDO machine was too great to collect the excrement efficiently. 
2) Paper and Card Recycling Collections.  Sometimes bits of this are blown away in the wind during collection, but the crews have to leave this as such delays in retrieving it would make it impossible to complete their round.

CORRESPONDENCE
1) Westgate CCTV.  A letter had been received from Rogers and Hambidge concerning the  expenses of upgrading this equipment, and requesting a financial contribution of £180.  Whilst the W&WRA has always been supportive of this over the years the meeting suggested that we should contact the Westgate-on-Sea Town Council  to  invite them also to contribute to this.  Cllr Ashbee also suggested that some of the local traders and KCC might also be asked to help, and a comprehensive system of four cameras could be set up.  Cllr Ashbee to make enquiries.  If the WTC do not agree to assist the matter will be brought back to the next meeting.    

PLANNING  
1) 18, Gresham Avenue.  Application to build a cattery was passed in spite of some objections.  However a licence will be required and Cllrs Ash Ashbee and Mick Tomlinson will be speaking to the licensing officer.
2) 3 & 5 Royal Crescent.  Application for extension at the rear.
3) 93 to 95 Canterbury Road.  Application for warehouse and cladding.
4) 4, Queens Road.  Application for single storey extension.
5) 49, Westgate Bay Avenue.  Several members had noticed the ground being prepared for building, and the Holm Oak trees on the site which had been badly pollarded a year or so ago had been taken out.  This being in the conservation area had caused concern that the work may have been carried out without proper planning permission. 
6) Mountain Ash Trees on the Verges.  Some of these had been attacked by a fungus and had to be removed.
7) Soft Verge Trees.  Cllr Ashbee said that KCC will plant trees at the request of residents, but there is a charge of £140 + VAT.

TREASURER'S REPORT   
In the absence of Sam  Secomb the report given on 19th December to the committee was read out.  The bank balance stood at £5,502 and all bills are paid up to date.

EDITOR'S REPORT
Muriel Atkins was warmly congratulated on the production of the magazine.  

SUNSHINE REPORT
No report.

MEMBERSHIP
Christina had no special items to report.


CIVIC REPORT
Westgate Heritage Centre:  Next meeting is Saturday 4th February at St Saviour's Church at 10.30am when there will be a pictorial journey of Sea Road about the houses and people who lived there.
Margate Civic Society: Next meeting is Thursday 2nd February at the Walpole Bay Hotel at 7.30p.m. When a talk will be given on “The Medway Queen, Heroine of Dunkirk” by Mr & Mrs Bathurst from the Medway Queen Preservation Society.


SOCIAL 
1) Festive New Year Lunch.  Eighty seven are now booked and paid.
2) Lunch at the Swan.  A booking is to be made for 26th February, details to follow on the Bake House notice board.  

ANY OTHER BUSINESS
1) Post Boxes Refurbishment.  No further news has been forthcoming.
2) Bridge Road Railings.  It is hoped that KCC will supply some paint, and that the community pay back team will use this for the railings.
3) Bridge Road Cabinets.  Some cabinets had been sited on the Garlinge side of the bridge which could be dangerous to pedestrians.
4) Barn Crescent.  It was reported that there was a large amount of weeds and rubbish in this road.
5) Pancake Race.  It was agreed to check with the WTC Town  Clerk that this is in hand.
6) Tree Work Green Notices.  These do not seem to be deployed, especially for listed trees or those in a conservation area. 
7) Rancorn Road Parking.  There has been dangerous parking on the bend, so that double yellow lines have been put in.
8) Recycling of Plastic Materials.  A request was made for a plastic recycling receptacle in St Mildred's car park.
9) Loggia Building.  In the forthcoming asset disposal auction this building is not included, (Westgate Pavilion is on the list).  




NEXT MEETING
 Monday 13th February, at the United Services Club, 7.00pm for 7.15pm. 


There being no other business the meeting concluded at 8.50pm.

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK Residents Association Minutes Sept 2016

 

 

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE WESTBROOK BOWLS CLUB ON MONDAY 12^th SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 7.15PM.

 

PRESENT

Mick Tomlinson (chair), twenty seven members, Thanet District Cllrs Ash Ashby, Sam Bambridge, Carol Partington, and Mick Tomlinson, Westgate Town Cllr Ash Ashby, and Robin Chantrill-Smith (I/C parking for TDC) who was introduced by the chairman.

 The chairman welcomed all to the meeting.

 

APOLOGIES

Apologies had been received from Pat Sawyer-Jones.

 

GUEST SPEAKER

Mr Robin Chantrill-Smith informed the meeting that he was in charge of on and off street parking for TDC.  There were twelve enforcement officers for the whole of Thanet which was a somewhat limited resource.  Questions were then invited from the floor.

1)      St Mildred's Bay Car Park.  A ticket machine had now been installed, this is solar powered as the previous electricity supply had failed.  Members questioned if this was worth charging as motorists can and do park in adjacent roads.  Answer: It does just about break even.  Local members would prefer no charges so that it is used and parking would not congest local residential roads.  One member asked if it was a legal charge as the land had been made over to the community by deed of covenant in 1926.

2)      Double Parking had been noticed in the main Westgate roads.

3)      Westbrook Tescos.  James Brazier brought to members' attention parking problems here, and also on corners in Westgate Bay Avenue.  Answer This is a country wide problem and lack of enforcement officers is a difficulty.  Cllr Carol Partington said there had been an agreement that smaller delivery lorries should be used, although it appeared that this was not always the case.  The chairman said there had often been problems with bollards and railings had been asked for but this would be the responsibility of KCC Highways.

4)      Westbrook Road.  An unauthorised yellow line had been put down and subsequently blacked out.

5)      Zebra Crossing, Westgate.  Cars parking by the zig zag lines had been checked and considered sufficiently safe.

6)      Problems caused by parking at bus stops, and parked camper vans were also discussed.  The police or environmental dept may be contacted in cases of overnight camping.  Chris Wyer pointed out that if the jacks are put down it becomes illegal.

Mr Chantrill-Smith was thanked for his time and assistance.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (8^th August 2016), which had been circulated were agreed and adopted.

 MATTERS ARISING

1)      Westgate Town Council Boundary.  Following the debate at the last meeting James Brazier had obtained a copy of a map from TDC showing the boundary as it is now.  The blue shed at St Mildred's Bay has been  made over to WTC, but there was some question about land that may go with it.

2)      Westbrook Road  HMO.  This is now empty, there is still a fly tipping problem in the road.

3)      Old Nurses Home at the Sea Bathing Hospital Site.  Following conversion to flats the scaffolding is being removed and the appearance is good.

 

REPORTS: Councillors-KCC, TDC, WTC.  PCSOs and Wardens.

Cllr Carol Partington TDC:

1)      Camper Vans in Barnes Park.  The complaint has been resolved with the help of an enforcement officer. 

2)      Green by Community Centre.  For access TDC used to use Wellington Road, but now has changed to the corner by Lymington Road where suitable posts have been placed.

3)      Tennis Courts.  Youngsters have been observed playing football on these.  Appropriate signs are to be put up.  Opinion was being sought as to the possibility of using some of the courts as a multi sports court.

4)      The Knot.  The planning application is ongoing.

5)      Beach Clean reminder.  The national beachwatch beach cleans take place this weekend, the local one in St Mildred's Bay is on Saturday 17^th September at 9.30 am. 

 

Cllr Ash Ashbee TDC & WTC:

1)      KCC Warden Laura Bungard had sent in her report to Cllr Ashbee.  This detailed a busy month with vehicles without  tax, highways issues, 101 calls, illegal camping and drugs.

2)      Westbrook Avenue Speeding.  Permanent speeding signs had been requested but the cost for one would be £6,000.  KCC Cllr Jeff Elenor had earmarked his discretional funding for a second zebra crossing. One member suggested a 20mph limit would reduce casualties considerably, but there would be much legislation to be dealt with beforehand.

 

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

1)      Nurses' Home, Old Sea Bathing Hospital.  Work is nearly complete and it is looking good.

2)      Nayland Rock Hotel.  This has been sold and is to be converted to a five star hotel.

3)      Victorian Shelter by the Nayland Rock.  In spite of being cleaned regularly it does at times get into a poor state.

4)      The “Record” Magazine.   The next issue is being prepared and Carol Peters are going to print it.  Muriel Atkins was warmly thanked for co-ordinating the new arrangements.

 

 CORRESPONDENCE

1)      Police Information by email.  Phone calls have been received pretending to be from HMRC and Amazon requesting personal details, these have been confirmed as fraudulent.  Never give your details when cold calls request them.     Care when leaving parked cars, do not leave items with your home address or even home GPS as if the car is stolen it may be driven to your home whilst you are unaware.  Mobile phones if stolen in a bag with credit cards.  It has been known for the thieves to call “home” to request pin numbers and if given to draw money from the victim's account.

2)      Letter from Derek Smith.  A letter had been received by the secretary, Pat Sawyer-Jones concerning the recent death of member and tea lady Joyce Smith expressing disappointment that no committee member had attended the funeral  on 30^th August in spite of an open invitation.  It appeared that not all the committee were aware of the invitation and date.  Some members were aware of the small size of the Bake House and would not have wished to occupy space needed for family and friends at the reception. The chairman expressed regret that the W&WRA had not been officially represented, and a reply would be sent concerning this oversight. Pat Sawyer-Jones had provided a floral tribute.

 

PLANNING 

1)      40, Royal Esplanade.  Application to erect single storey rear extension together with loft conversion.  Permission granted.

2)      8, Westcliff Gardens.  Application to erect single storey rear extension.

3)      10, Buenos Ayres.  Application to change of use from one flat and hostel to two self contained flats with single storey rear extension.

4)      14, Domneva Road.  Application to change windows on first and second floor levels to UPVC vertical sliding with external Georgian bars.

5)      85, Linksfield Road.  Application for erection of single storey side and rear extension.  Permission granted.

6)      Margate Beach.  Application for new life boat house.  There is some support and some objection.  A TDC meeting is to be held on Wednesday week.  For details see TDC planning services.

 

TREASURER'S REPORT  

In the absence of Sam  Secomb there was no report.

 

EDITOR'S REPORT

At present the W&WRA has no editor.  The next issue is being prepared, see Chairman's Report item (4) on page 2.

 

SUNSHINE REPORT

None.

 

MEMBERSHIP

Christina reported members still joining weekly.  As soon as the new magazine was ready the road stewards would be requested to deliver copies to members.

 

 CIVIC REPORT

Westgate Heritage Centre:  Next meeting is Saturday 8^th October at St Saviour's Church at 10.30am when there will be a chance to see the film taken of the ceremony when Dr Dawn Crouch was appointed the first Honorary Freeman of the town of Westgate-on-Sea.

Margate Civic Society: Next meeting Thursday 6^th October at the Walpole Bay Hotel at 7.30pm a talk “Civic Voice” by John Walker, Deputy Chairman, Civic Voice/President, Kent Federation of Amenity Societies/Chairman, Ramsgate Society.

 

Mick Tomlinson informed the meeting that the Civic service for the Mayor would take place on Sunday 9^th October.

 

PRESS REPORT

None. 

 

SOCIAL

1)      Trips out and the annual festive lunch are being arranged.

2)      Sunday Carvery Lunches at The Swan.  Next date is Sunday 9^th October.

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Westgate Community Centre Quiz.  To be held on Saturday 29^th October at 7.00pm.  Entry £5.

2)      Small encampment in public shelter near Barnes car park.  This has been called in by Cllr Ash Ashbee.

3)      Chris Wyer, various observations.  a)The mechanical road sweepers cannot do their job as so many parked cars are in the way.  b)The litter bin outside the Piggy Bank Nursery is reported to have cost £3,000.  c)Bridge Road.  New trees have not been watered and have died, and the weeds were not completely killed during the first treatment and have had to be sprayed again.

4)      Next Litter Pick is on 24^th September at 10.00am.

5)      Railway Footbridge.  This had not been painted very well, and one light on the Station Road side and two lights on the South side are not working.

6)      Seaweed in St Mildred's Bay.  A very large quantity has been removed by TDC.

7)      Bonfires.  In answer to an enquiry, bonfires are legal but subject to the law of nuisance.

8)      Animal Excrement.  Though there is a legal obligation for owners to pick up dog poo, there is no such obligation for horse owners.  

 

 

NEXT MEETING

 Monday 10^th October, at the United Services Club, 7.00pm for 7.15pm.

 

 

There being no other business the meeting concluded at 9.00pm.

 

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK Residents' Association meeting July 2016

 

 

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE WESTBROOK BOWLS CLUB ON MONDAY 11^th JULY 2016 AT 7.15PM.

 

 

PRESENT

Mick Tomlinson (chair), eighteen members, Thanet District Cllrs Ash Ashbee and Mick Tomlinson, Westgate Town Cllrs Ash Ashbee, Tom King, and Ron Rolfe, and KCC Warden Laura Bungard.

 

The chairman welcomed all to the meeting.

 

APOLOGIES

Apologies had been received from Muriel Atkins, Sam Secomb, and Mavis Vaughan.

 

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

1)      Committee.  New committee members are needed especially to fill the posts of vice-chairman, magazine editor, and press secretary.  The work of editor requires time and experience and will be filled as soon as possible, and the chairman asked for patience and understanding concerning the delay of the next issue.

2)      Waste/Recycling Collections.  There have been some problems with these, there have been staff shortages and some bins filled with incorrect contents which cannot be taken to recycling.  In the case of the latter a sticker will be placed on the bin giving  the reason.

3)      Council Tax Support Scheme.  This will be changing and details will be explained at the Gateway on Wednesday and Thursday.

4)      Super East Kent Authority.  This possibility is to be discussed with leaders and chief executives of Thanet, Canterbury, Ashford, Dover and Shepway councils.  There will not be a decision for some time, and if it goes ahead would not be in place until 2020.  Details will be shown on the internet.

5)      24-26, Westbrook Road.  Following enforcement some occupants had left, but some had come back.  In spite of objections planning permission had been granted for flats.  Concern was expressed from the floor that the property was now up for sale.

6)      Margate Cemetery Trust.  More volunteers are required for the one morning  per week.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

 

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (13^th June 2016), which had been circulated, were   amended and adopted on a prop. by Don Eacott seconded by Tony Sykes.

 

 

MATTERS ARISING

1)      Westgate-on-Sea Town Council.  Mick said he would be inviting the Town Clerk to address one of our general meetings, and any councillors from the WTC are always welcome to represent the council at W&WRA meetings. 

 

COUNCILLORS' / WARDEN'S / PCSOS'  REPORTS

TDC Cllr Ash Ashbee:

1)      Application for 139, Sea Road.  This has been called in.  

2)      Bridge Road.  KCC are to clear the banks, then the pay back team will paint the railings as arranged by Cllr Ashbee.

3)      Barnes Car Park Large Bin.  This has now been put in place.

 

In answer to a question from the floor concerning a possible second pedestrian crossing for Westbrook/Westgate Bay Avenues, Cllr Ashbee said that the inquest had only just been completed, and the exact location for the crossing is  not yet decided.

 

WTC Cllr Tom King:

1)      Town Council Meetings.  These took place on the first Monday of each month at the Town Hall and are open for the public to attend.

2)      Different Councillors are to be seconded out to local organisations including the W&WRA.

3)      Progress so Far.  The first fifteen months had been difficult, plans were in hand to manage finance and general purposes, and talks were continuing with TDC to acquire equipment for services.  It is hoped to remove rubbish graffiti and weeds.  Events that will go through the WTC include the pancake race, remembrance day parade, and the Christmas lights.  Grants had been made to restore the chimes in the clock in Christ Church tower, and for cleaning equipment for use by local residents, and to the Westgate Community Centre, and Westgate's Christmas lights. TDC had offered the “games hut” in St Mildred's car park, and a cleaner truck and barrows are available for a nominal amount.  Tom believed that an active Town Council should be very helpful during tough financial times.

 

KCC Warden Laura Bungard: (Laura had brought her report but had to attend an incident urgently, and the report was read by the  chairman).

1)      In the month of June Laura had been involved with:  13 Highways issues, 9 rubbish/dog fouling/fly tips, 14 vulnerable residents/mental health etc., 8 parking/cars for sale in prohibited roads, 11 youth groups/nursery/clubs, 7 referrals/social services, 6 advice, 5 ASB/graffiti, 7 DVLA, 5 police, and a few other items. 

 

 

CORRESPONDENCE

1)      Police Information by email.  Male doorstep callers in the area selling dusters etc no ID displayed.  Do not get involved, if suspicious call 101 and give description.

2)       Online Financial Scam. Message comes in “have restricted your access to online banking, and now require verification process”.

3)      Telephone Scam.  UK Call Guard Service offers protection from unwanted calls for £199.  Available free from TPS.  Do not get involved.

4)      Letter supposedly from the bank asking that you call them.  Only phone your bank on their correct number known to you. 

 

 

PLANNING 

1)      29, Domneva Road.  Application for single storey extension to rear elevation, and two storey extension to side.

2)      72, St Mildred's Road.  Application for change of use from retail to ice cream parlour.

3)      139, Sea Road.  This application has been called in.

4)      Premier Inn Westbrook.  Proposed window replacement.

5)      Land West of Hundreds Farm House.  Outline application for erection of 64 bed care home including access.

6)      1, Tyson Avenue.  Application for single storey rear extension, loft conversion, front porch, and internal  alterations.

7)      60, St Mildred's Road.  Application for change of use from retail to children's nursery.

8)      Walmer Castle.  Application for change of use from pub to Greek bar and restaurant.

9)      Station Road (new units).  Application for change of use from retail to educational purposes in one unit, and to bar and restaurant in another unit.

10)  27B, Ethelbert Square.  Application for change of use from storage to a two bedroom dwelling. 

 

 

TREASURER'S REPORT  

None.

 

EDITOR'S REPORT

None.  A new editor is urgently needed.

 

SUNSHINE REPORT

None.

 

MEMBERSHIP

Christina said there was no new information other than new members were joining steadily.

 

CIVIC REPORT

Westgate Heritage Centre:  Next meeting is Saturday 6^th August at St Saviour's Church at 10.30am when there will be a talk by Dr Dawn Crouch “Westgate in 1916” concerning the effects on the Town of another year of war.    

 

SOCIAL

1)      Continuing with outings, lunches, and a music quiz in September.

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Rubbish in Westbrook Road.   Cllr Ashbee suggested the best option was to report this to a local councillor. 

2)      Allotment.  The allotment previously rented by the W&WRA has been given up, which is why it may look derelict. 

3)      Car sales in Roads.  Cars have been seen for sale in Canterbury Road, which is a prohibited road and therefore illegal.

4)      Grass Cutting Frequency.  This is budgeted at eight cuts per year.

5)      Signs at junction of Hengist Road and the Dual Carriageway.  Cllr Ashbee agreed to raise this at the Joint Transport Committee meeting. 

6)      Foot Bridge between The Grove and Station Road.  This appeared to have been painted but not very professionally. Enquiries are ongoing. 

7)      Canterbury Road.  Trees and shrubs from gardens on the North side of the road are obstructing the pavement.  The council is writing to the owners.

8)      Westgate Against Rubbish Group.  Next litter removal is on 23^rd July, meet at the station. 

 

 

NEXT MEETING

 Monday 8^th August, at the Westgate Town Hall, 7.00pm for 7.15pm.

 

 

There being no other business the meeting concluded at 8.41pm.