WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION October 2019 Meeting

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE BAKE HOUSE ON MONDAY 14^th  OCTOBER 2019 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Gina May (Ch), and twenty eight members, including WTC Cllrs Joanna Cornford and David Wallin.  Also present Adam Robson from the “News and Directory” publication.

APOLOGIES

Jo Dungey, Dave Morrish, and Sylvia and Tony Sykes.

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

During the summer months when people are on holiday, W&WRA items have appeared in the “News and Directory”.  Standing orders are encouraged for the  payment of subscriptions. Members will be attending the remembrance Sunday service at the memorial, all welcome.  The MacMillan coffee morning raised £175.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (09/09/19), which had been circulated, were agreed as a correct record on a proposal by James Brazier sec. By Joanna Cornford, and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

1)      Wheelie Bin (AOB 8).  A replacement for the damaged one had been received from TDC after twenty seven weeks. 

2)      Proposed Travelers Site.  There had naturally been objections from the nearby hotel and residents to this.  Unless sites are provided there will be unauthorized occupation of areas by travelers, and the eviction of these will take  longer as at present.

3)      White VW Van. (Warden's Report 6).  This is still at 181 Westbrook Avenue on the corner with Wentworth Avenue, and causes dangerous loss of site line to drivers.  It is thought to belong to a bankrupt company, and has neither current road tax nor MOT.  The DVLA has clamped it but removal has not yet taken place.

ADAM ROBSON  The chair introduced Adam Robson from “News and Directory”. He told the meeting that he had been approached by WTC to work with them, and the next issue will be by his own company, Hof Media Publishing, and include W&WRA items again this time including membership application forms.  There will be 3,600 for Westgate, and 4,800 for Westbrook and Garlinge, it is hoped to cover all residents.  It was agreed that more copies can be left with WTC offices, the library, and the W&WRA in case any residents are missed out.  There had been problems in Ryders Avenue, Carlton Road, Sea Road, Victoria Avenue, and Adrian Square. It is also difficult to deliver to some flats and gated premises.

REPORTS Cllrs, PCSOs, WARDEN'S:

KCC Warden Laura Bungard: (Report sent in and read by the vice-chair):

1)      Drains. Laura has again been in contact with the KCC Highways officer about blocked drains.

2)      Cars/Vehicles.  Vandalism has taken place to windows and wing mirrors,  thought to be by youths on mopeds.  Please report on 101 if affected.

3)      Cleaners.  Anyone in need of this service by a pre-checked cleaner can go to Age UK, Zion Place tel01843 223881. A member from the floor said the KCC website can also be helpful in this respect.

4)      Neighbours. Laura asked members to look out for their neighbours especially regarding heating or any that require help to look after themselves

5)      Contact.  Laura may be contacted by email laurabungard@kent.gov.uk or by phone 07969 583922, and her details are held at the Town Council Offices.

6)      Weeds on Bridge Road.  These are to be cleared on a community pay back scheme.

PLANNING

1)      No new items available.

CORRESPONDENCE

1)      Police by Email.  Telephone and computer scams still ongoing.  One is claiming to do with TV licences, another about tax rebate others ask for certain buttons  to be pressed .  Vigilance is needed, it was suggested that the answer phone and caller display be used when possible.  Another scam involves items advertised for sale, such as cars when more than one person comes to see it and some form of damage is done so that they try to obtain whatever is for sale much more cheaply. As well as reporting  incidents to the police they can be reported to: community.safety@thanet.gov.uk.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Jacquie Agnew)

Monthly Report.  Jacquie supplied copies of the report, stating that if any  members required more copies or a copy sent by email she would be happy to oblige.

Members subscriptions are still coming in.

Three meetings rent had been paid to the Bowls Club, and the treasurer thought it may be a good idea to ask for a block booking.

Invoices for use of the Bake House are due.

Storage of some items belonging to the W&WRA in the old air raid shelter, some of which could be of value, requires attention as it is extremely damp, and stored papers have already deteriorated, and other items are likely to be damaged.  Some furniture is being stored in the cinema but this is not in very good condition.  The W&WRA also owns a hostess trolley.  A proposal by James Brazier sec. By Don Eacott that excess furniture be disposed of or sold off was put on hold until an inventory has been carried out.  Joanna volunteered to carry out the inventory.

Jacquie told the meeting that for papers etc there is a filing cabinet for W&WRA use in the WTC offices.

There was then a heated discussion concerning membership and the amount of subscriptions paid which was difficult to resolve as both the offices of membership secretary, and secretary were vacant.   Don Eacott proposed that we accept the books now as they are and then we move forward as we need to work together.

At this point Mandy Rickett was asked by the vice-chair if she was willing to be co-opted to the committee to help, and this was agreed.

Gina told the meeting  that there had been a  great deal of hostility at each meeting, and that she had received from an anonymous source communications of an obscene and disgusting nature by text message, and consequently she and the treasurer would be resigning.

There would be an emergency (extra-ordinary) meeting on 30^th October 7.00pm at the Bake House to elect new officers.

The vice-chair then adjourned the meeting at 8.40pm.

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION SEPT 2019

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE BOWLS CLUB ON MONDAY 9^th  SEPTEMBER 2019 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Julian Dungey (Vice-Chair) who chaired the meeting, and twenty four members, including WTC Cllr Joanna Cornford.

APOLOGIES

Gina May, Vivien Osborne, Mavis Vaughan, and Cllr Matt Scott.

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT (Read out by the Vice-Chairman)

Communications to the W&WRA committee.  Whilst communications and ideas from members are welcome, some have been using social media, but all are requested to use the W&WRA email address: westgateandwestbrook@gmail.com or to send items in writing, C/o St Augustines' Business Centre, 125, Canterbury Road, Westgate-on-Sea CT8 8NL. The new W&WRA mobile number is 07873551901 where messages can be left and calls returned in due course.  If received by 5.00pm on the Friday before the next committee meeting it will be discussed and acted on where possible providing the item is within the remit of the W&WRA. (Committee meetings are currently held on the Monday before the monthly general meetings, next one 07/10/19).

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (12/08/19), which had been circulated, were agreed as a correct record subject to minor amendments to the spelling of names, and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

1)      Caravans Parked Illegally.  This was reported both in Westbrook and Westgate. James Brazier suggested these be reported to KCC Warden Laura Bungard. 

REPORTS Cllrs, PCSOs, WARDEN'S:

KCC Warden Laura Bungard: (Report sent in and read by the chair):

1)      Drains. Several drains in Westgate Bay Avenue tend to flood in heavy rain.  Following Laura's report the inspector is to come with relevant people, and hopefully the problem will be dealt with shortly.

2)      Rowena Road.  Dog poo bags are being deposited behind the green utilities boxes, and has continued after clearing.  Residents are asked to watch out for this so it can be stopped.

3)      Travellers Gypsies and Campers.  Various sites have been invaded and these have been reported  to TDC.  Those homeless around the area have also been reported to TDC.

4)      Rubbish Bins.  Residents are requested not to deposit rubbish in any bin                                                                                                      that is already overflowing.  Please contact WTC or TDC

5)      Contact.  Laura may be contacted by email laurabungard@kent.gov.uk or by phone 07969 583922, and her details are held at the Town Council Offices.

6)      White VW Van parked at the junction of Wentworth Avenue and 181 Westbrook Avenue.  This had been raised with Laura by members as it was causing a dangerous lack of visibility to drivers emerging from Wentworth Avenue, or vehicles turning right into Bowes Avenue.  TDC had informed Laura that it had been “claimed” and not dumped, and at the time both tax and MOT were in date,  It is expected to be removed soon.

WTC Cllr Joanna Cornford:

1)      Planning Application for 129, Sea Road.  This is a re-application to demolish the existing building and replace it with flats.  Objections had been forthcoming and Cllr Cornford said it was essential to object with the correct reasons.  WTC planning committee are meeting tomorrow (Tuesday).

2)      Speeding Cars.  More speedwatch volunteers are needed, it was reported by members that Westbrook Avenue and The Royal Esplanade often see speeding vehicles.

  

PLANNING

1)      40, Station Road.  Application for change of use from retail to retail sandwich bar and drinking establishment, with alterations to fenestration, installation of canopy, and addition of WC.

2)      Elizabeth Court, Westbrook.  Members reported seeing footings in front of this building but have not seen any planning applications.  Item to be checked with TDC.

3)      Planning Lists.  Copies were previously supplied for the W&WRA general meetings by a TDC councillor, but have not been available recently.  WTC Cllr Joanna Cornford kindly offered to obtain future copies. 

CORRESPONDENCE

1)      Notice of Review of Polling Places and Polling Stations.  A consultation period has just started and comments are invited to the TDC.  There is also an email link consultation@thanet.go.uk

2)      Police by Email.  Telephone and computer scams are being tried, and residents need to be extremely vigilant.    Vehicle crime locally has escalated, particularly damage to car windows.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Jacquie Agnew)

1)      Monthly Report.  Jacquie apologised to the meeting that she had not brought it, but could email copies later in the evening to any members wishing this.

2)      Proposed Children's Christmas Party.  The committee had proposed this for members children and grandchildren.  The Westgate Community Centre would give a special price of £30, and there would be a charge  of £2.50 each to cover the cost of food and presents.  Comments were invited, James felt that a budget should be set, Don suggested the road stewards could put details through members' doors, perhaps with an explanation that the W&WRA magazine is now within the Westgate “News and Directory”.  It was also suggested that road stewards could at the same time check that members had received the new magazine as some roads do not appear to have been completely covered. The meeting did not proceed with the Christmas party proposal.

3)      Literary Festival.  The W&WRA has been asked if one of the speakers for the children's literary event could be sponsored for £100. There would be useful publicity/advertising associated with this, and the proposal was agreed by the meeting.

SUNSHINE REPORT

Joanna Cornford initiated a discussion on where cards could be obtained reasonably.  It was generally thought that KCC Warden Laura would be most helpful with information about local residents who may benefit by a kind word and card.  Joanna reported that Joan Penhallow is now back in Westgate (at Eaton Lodge).

MEMBERSHIP

The Vice-Chairman introduced member Clare Hastings who has been co-opted to the committee, and she was welcomed by the meeting.

CIVIC REPORT

¹⁾        Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre at St Saviour's Church.  Saturday 12^th October (second Saturday) 10.30am, a talk by Dr Dawn Crouch “Streete Court Boys' School and its literary link”.

²⁾        Margate Civic Society at the Walpole Bay Hotel Thursday 3^rd October at 7.30pm, a talk by Amber Butchart “Nautical Chic: High Style on the High Seas”  ^.

³⁾        Birchington Heritage Trust at Alpha Road.  Thursday 26^th September “A Schoolgirl's War” by Mary Smith.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

SOCIAL REPORT

1)      New Year Lunch.  Jacquie had made enquiries at St Augustines and passed round sample menus, a possible free date is 12^th January, and cost per person £21.

2)      Other Events.  Members were asked to make their preferences known for all age groups.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Kerb Edges.  Chris Wyer pointed out the large number of weeds in roads, and had cleared some near his home with a shovel, there was also graffiti in the shelters.

2)      Domneva Road.  A bungalow had been built so close to another building, that it could make very difficult for fire fighters should they be needed.

3)      Litter Collection by Volunteers.  Members were appalled to learn that litter collected by volunteers had been classed by the amenity tip as industrial waste and refused.

4)      Hedge Cutting.  Heat seeking equipment is being introduced to conserve wildlife.                                                                               

5)      St Mildred's Bay Car Park.  A proposal from a member that the WTC and W&WRA lobby the TDC to dispense with car parking charges in the summer as this is hardly ever used due to unrealistically high charges.  It is suggested that the loss to TDC would be minimal, (under FOI regulations is it possible to be advised of the annual revenue of this car park?), and more visitors would be encouraged and the street parking in the area relieved which has been to the detriment of local residents.

6)      The Old St Mildred's Putting Green.  Provision of picnic tables has been mentioned over the years, what are the pros and cons for this?  Could these be provided from the W&WRA, and be stored in the council hut during the winter?

7)      St Mildred's Bay Toilets.  There is a rumour these may be replaced by portaloos.  If this is correct could we be advised of the situation regarding the shower facilities (required for a blue flag beach).

8)      Wheelie Bins.  The lid of a black bin was broken off during collection and lost in the collecting lorry on 8^th April.  Several phone calls were made during the  next few weeks, and TDC instructions were to leave the bin out at the front so that the operative could check the size and type required, also being advised this would take about TWENTY WEEKS.  There has still been no action from TDC, and another call was made to them explaining that whilst out at the front items have been placed in it including recyclables and dog poo, and the rain fills up in the bin so that all the rubbish has to be sorted out in a solution of dog poo, hardly compliant to conditions appropriate to health and safety.  We would ask how long does it take to replace a bin lid?

9)      Code of Conduct.  This as discussed at a previous meeting was put to the vote for adoption, and unanimously accepted.

10)  MacMillan Coffee Morning.  To be held at the Bake House on Wednesday 25^th September from 10.00am to 12.00noon.  

                                        

NEXT MEETING

Monday 14^th October, at the Bake House 7.00pm for 7.15pm.  

The meeting concluded at 9.10pm.

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION July 2019 Meeting

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE BOWLS CLUB ON MONDAY 8^th  JULY 2019 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Gina May (chair), twenty seven members, including WTC Cllrs Joanna Cornford,   and David Wallin.

APOLOGIES

There were no apologies.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (10/06/19), which had been circulated, were agreed as a correct record on a prop. by Joanna Cornford, sec by David Wallin and adopted, and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

Gina reported to the meeting that vice-chair Bob Micallef has resigned due to receiving verbal and physical threats.  There is now therefore a need to co-opt a member to this position.  There were no offers from the floor.

REPORTS Cllrs, PCSOs, WARDEN'S:

KCC Warden Laura Bungard: (Report sent in and read by the chair):

1)      Drains. Laura has been checking these especially after the recent heavy showers. Some are blocked with earth and leaves, and have been reported.

2)      Potholes.  Also monitored and these are filled in a relatively short space of time.

3)      Vulnerable Residents.  Laura continues to visit those who have little family, friends, or support.  There are some good agencies available who can arrange fire alarms checks, occupational health, walkers annd frames, doctors visits, a friend to have coffee with, and light bulb replacement (chargeable).  These services are busy at times, and it would be good if all neighbours kept an eye on any help that could be given.

4)      Contact.  Laura may be contacted by email laurabungard@kent.gov.uk or by phone 07969 583922, and her details are held at the Town Council Offices.

PLANNING

There were no local planning applications in the W&WRA area.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Jacquie Agnew)

1)      Westgate Day, 21^st July.  £15 had been paid for the W&WRA pitch in Adrian Square where there will be a stall with tables, and Lorraine Hambidge kindly offered to lend a gazebo.  Volunteers were requested to assist manning this.  It was hoped the banner could be found or a new one made for the event.

2)      Wednesday Coffee Mornings.  The takings from 27^th February to 26^th June were £161 which was not enough to pay the two hours rental for each of the eighteen days, total £271, so this has so far been subsidised.  The treasurer asked members if they were happy for this to continue.  Many thought this was a vital link and had not been sufficiently promoted.  The prices of tea and coffee 80p and 90p compared well with other outlets.  Following a discussion during which it was agreed to advertise the mornings in the magazine, which now will be delivered with “News and Directory” to all in Westgate and Westbrook, a proposal to review the situation in four months was made by Don Eacott sec by Laura Shawyer and carried with none against.

3)      Cash Figures.  Monies in – subscriptions £1883, Refreshments £161, Easter Egg hunt £7,  the latter was not designed as a fund raiser but had given everyone of all ages a great time and resulted in some new members.               Monies outgoing – petty cash £709, “News and Directory” £350, Westgate Day £15, postal address £144 (A business address at St Augustines for security as we no longer have a full time base).

SUNSHINE REPORT

Joanna Cornford reported that four cards had been sent out to members this  month, and would be happy to receive phone calls concerning members in need.  (Gina [chair] had phoned GDPR and checked that is OK to use the address of a member to wish them well).

SOCIAL REPORT

Social organiser Linda Kiddell told the meeting she was going to resign.  She had taken early retirement from school work, and was hoping to do voluntary work in the community in addition to her work with the Global Church. Linda said she had received moans and complaints, possibly by small groups spoiling things, and she did not wish to be part of this or give time to moaners. She intended to seek other voluntary work in the community. At this point Linda left the meeting.

GENERAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION

Gina informed the meeting that several committee members had received nasty and threatening communications which was totally unacceptable.

James Brazier and Don Eacott agreed and hoped there would be more positivity in the future.

There were now several vacancies on the committee to be filled. Gina introduced Julian Dungey recently co-opted to the committee.

Comments and suggestions were invited, there were no further offers to serve on the committee forthcoming, some members expressed the hope that more younger people would serve on the committee.

James Brazier queried the necessity and expense of employing an auditor for checking the last five years, and several members agreed and thought we should start afresh.  Sylvia Sykes recommended that we should appoint a fully qualified auditor for the this year.  All agreed that balances for the year end carried forward should be shown on accounts.

Don Eacott suggested that plans for events be made for twelve months ahead so that all members can be kept informed in good time.  Gina replied that this was in fact now being done, a date in mind being the VE day anniversary on 8^th May 2020.

Gina asked for support and help for the committee in order to continue, and this was agreed unanimously on a prop by Tony Sykes sec by Lorraine Hambidge.

Gina pointed out that the constitution needs to be updated by adding provision for codes of conduct, child protection safeguarding etc, and suggestions for these would be brought to a future general meeting.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Westgate in Bloom.  Chris Wyer said that with all the effort being made it seemed such a shame that many roadside trees had been cut down and left as ugly stumps.  This is apparently the responsibility of KCC.

2)      Tree Planting. Many of the new trees have been lost either to vandalism or when contractors cut the grass.

3)      Canterbury Road Surfacing.  Chris Wyer said that the 3.2million£ project to resurface this road was to have included the part of it by the BP garage.  WTC Cllr David Wallin thought this is to be completed a little later.

4)      St Peters R C Church Site Development.  Chris Wyer said there is a great deal of traffic caused by those working on the site, and the design is brutal.  Both the WTC and Westgate CAAG have sent in objections.

5)      Litter Collection on Dual Carriageway.  Concern was expressed for the safety of the volunteer collecting from the central reservation.

6)      The Grove.  Overhanging shrubs were obstructing the footpath.  KCC would be the enforcing authority, but due to nesting birds there is a reluctance to cut hedges/shrubs at this time of year.

7)      Gypsy Caravans.  A few had arrived with several horses on the Westbrook cliff top by the sunken gardens, which will be reported to TDC.  

                                        

NEXT MEETING

Monday 12^th August, at the Bake House 7.00pm for 7.15pm.  

The meeting concluded at 9.15pm.

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION June 2019 Minutes

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE BAKE HOUSE ON MONDAY 10^th  JUNE 2019 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Gina May (chair), twenty two members, including WTC Cllrs Joanna Cornford,  Bob Micallef, Matthew Scott, and David Wallin.

APOLOGIES

Apologies had been received from Tim Bentley, Lorraine Hambidge, Bob Loxley,  Pam O'Toole, Laura Shawyer, Sylvia and Tony Sykes, Christina and Ray Taylor and Sheila Williams.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (13/05/19), which had been circulated, were agreed as a correct record on a prop. by Don Eacott sec. by Christine Smith and adopted, and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising.

REPORT FROM THE CHAIR: (Gina May):

Election of Committee at the AGM.  On examination of the constitution it appeared that several nominations had been made at the AGM and not fourteen days before this.  In order to regularize this those members were subsequently asked to stand down and offered reinstatement with co-option by the committee so that the end result would be the same.  One member had resigned in writing. The new committee would shortly introduce themselves.

Gina stated she will work to make the W&WRA inclusive and welcoming, and able to address needs,  and be part of the community.  Ways of increasing the membership with all ages will be sought, and the W&WRA needs a unique identity, and to work with WTC.

There is a need to modernise and bring the constitution up to date adding child protection, safeguarding and inclusion etc which will then enable applications for grants to be made.

There is a need for a permanent multifunctional space.

There will be some dramatic changes planned, the magazine as a separate entity will cease and will be incorporated with a local circulation together with joining forms.

Coffee mornings, there is a need to increase attendance at these.

Others possibilities are to run stalls at local fayres and revive the Westgate one, Christmas party, and to take back the pancake races which could be relaunched in 1950s style.  VE Day celebrations with baking and talks for local schools.

Gina herself is keen to promote books, and is fighting for the library, and has been arranging a book festival, with Terry Waite speaking at one of the events, and should being in money and tourism into the  area. 

INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMMITTEE

Chairperson, Gina May then introduced the new committee to the meeting.

            Vice-Chairman:                       Robert Micallef

            Treasurer:                                Jacquie Agnew

            Minute Secretary:                    Chris Whittingham

            Social Organiser:                     Linda Kiddell

            Sunshine Friend:                     Joanna Cornford

The  position of membership secretary is vacant and being covered by the treasurer and chairperson at present.

Each member of the committee then briefly introduced themselves to the meeting. (Committee member Laura Shawyer was unable to attend this meeting).

Pat Sawyer-Jones indicated that she would be resigning from the committee, but was willing to co-ordinate the rota for staffing the weekday refreshments. The Vice-Chairman asked her to take time to reconsider resigning, and welcomed her offer concerning the refreshments rota.

Jacquie then told the meeting that she was looking at a “cloud” based system for the membership records.  Jacquie also recommended that an independent auditor check through recent records for transparency.

GDPR Compliance. Members are required to give their permission if they wish to be contacted by the W&WRA, and forms to that effect were distributed, and will  be available in the Bake House.

CIVIC REPORT

Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre:

Tuesday 11^th June at 2.00pm in St Mildred's Bay a short event of remembrance of the Royal Naval Air Service Station Westgate  as the bench donated is handed over to the Chairman of WTC Cllr Martyn Pennington, and special guest Jacqueline Ingram.  Then moving on to Sea Road where the second bench is installed in the gardens by 17 and 25 Sea Road, (sites of VAD hospitals).

Next meeting Saturday 6^th July at 10.30am at St Saviour's Church, when there will be an illustrated  talk by Dr Dawn Crouch - “How Westgate celebrated the Peace in 1919”.

Civic Society:  

Evening meetings  resume in October.

Saturday 22^nd June is Civic Day when many places of interest are open, and there is a walk round the  Old Town of Margate led by Robin Colyer starting at Droit House at 2.00pm.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

                                        

NEXT MEETING

Monday 8^th July, at the Bowls Club 7.00pm for 7.15pm.  

The meeting concluded at 8.01pm.

WESTGATE AND WESTBROOK RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION Minutes of May 2019 meeting

MINUTES OF A SHORT GENERAL MEETING HELD AT WESTBROOK BOWLS CLUB FOLLOWING THE AGM ON 13^th MAY 2019 AT 7.55 P.M.

MINUTES OF THE LAST GENERAL MEETING (8^th April 2019)

These were circulated, confirmed, and adopted.

MATTERS ARISING

1)      Thanet Coast Project.  Tony Sykes asked all for continued support for this project which has been threatened with cuts to the only paid position of organiser, Tony Child, who works with one hundred volunteers to look after the coast, environment, and public awareness of the beaches.

2)      Rough Sleepers.  Chris Wyer asked how the new grant to help the council resolve the problem is going to be used.  (See below in councillors' reports).

COUNCILLORS'/PCSO/WARDEN REPORTS

WTC Cllr David Donaldson introduced himself, being newly elected, and hopes the WTC and W&WRA will work together.

TDC Cllr Ash Ashbee:   

1)      Thank You.  Ash thanked all for their support and will continue to work hard  for the area.

2)      Rough Sleepers.  The recent grant will help the dedicated team who look to finding more permanent accommodation, and also to help in cases of alcohol and addiction problems.

3)      Visitor Information Centre and Thanet Coast Project.  These are now under review and discussions.  When the new positions and sub-committees on TDC are arranged shortly, hopefully Ash may be able to resume this briefing with coastal matters and will report back next meeting.

4)      Canterbury Road Resurfacing.  KCC contractors are carrying this out at night. Comments from residents are about the difficulty in negotiating the works when directions are not clear.  However it seems that good and necessary work is being done.  Ash agreed to pass on these comments.

5)      Sea Front Grass Areas.  Some parts are not mowed short in order to support Bumble Bee conservation, the undercliff grass is cut only once a year for this and other wildlife conservation.

A question from the floor concerning the woodland area at the end of Tivoli Park Avenue asked what is intended for this area.  Ash thought it could be for a KCC recreation area but would check and find out.

TDC and WTC Cllr Matt Scott:

Cllr Scott apologised for arriving late, due to another meeting, and said he is always ready to help residents when needed.

The WTC AGM is on Wednesday at 7.00pm in the URC hall, and is open for the public to attend.

WTC Cllr Joanna Cornford:

Cllr Cornford thanked all who had voted in recent elections.

Incident Reporting.  This is  very important and tel 101 should be used to make the report as it will then be logged.

KCC Warden Laura Bungard: (Report for April sent in and read by the chairman).  Issues involved:

1)      Contact.  Details for Laura are held at the Town Council Office, or messages can be left at the library.  Phone number 07969 583922 and email address laura.bungard@kent.gov.uk.

2)      General Duties.  The month has been busy with the usual items, vulnerable visits, referrals, drains, pot holes, neighbour disputes, and pot smoking etc.

3)      Linksfield Road by the Park.  Anybody seeing pot smoking, youths on mopeds/petrol scooters in the park causing a nuisance please call the police on 101.  There is a need to know where the moped/scooter drivers live so that their use of these vehicles can be discussed.

4)      Rowena Road.  Poo bags are being left behind the Virgin Media junction boxes.  Please report this to TDC so that it can be stopped.

PLANNING

No planning reports to hand, (Carol Messenger used to provide the copies).

CORRESONDENCE   TREASURER'S  & EDITOR'S REPORTS   MEMBERSHIP

No further information.

CIVIC REPORT

Westgate Heritage Centre.  The next monthly meeting is on Saturday 1^st June at 10.30am in St Saviour's Church when there will be an illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth about the Hockeridge Hotel.

Margate Civic Society.   James informed the  meeting that at this year's Town Pride Awards the winner was Brompton Villas, Westgate Bay Avenue.  There was also a second nomination in Westgate.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Stephanie Sutton reported to the meeting the death of Eileen Cunnew who had given great service to the W&WRA over many years, serving as secretary and president during this time.  

2)      Easter Egg Hunt.  This had been very successful and enjoyed by all.

3)      Wednesday Coffee Mornings.  More members were requested for this as at present the takings are not sufficient to pay the rental.

4)      WTC Surgery.  Cllr Matt Scott reminded the meeting of the surgery on the third Saturday of the month at the library, 10.00 – 11.30am.

5)      Speedwatch.  More volunteers are required, and it is hoped to monitor Westgate Bay Avenue and Lymington Road.

6)      CCTV Cameras and Safety.  Following discussion Ash Ashbee considered that two cameras correctly positioned could cover Westgate.

7)      Tennis Group.  James Brazier said the new member Derek had started the group on Sunday afternoons at St Mildrerd's Bay and it was worthy of support.

8)      Two Memorial Benches via Westgate Heritage Centre.  James reported that  location problems had been resolved, and they would shortly be placed, one in St Mildred's Bay by the memorial, and the other in the gardens by Sea Road near to the site of the old Ivyside Hotel (which had been a VAD hospital).

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

Monday 10^h June 2019  7.00pm for 7.15pm.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded at 8.40pm.