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 March Meeting 2019

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT THE BAKE HOUSE ON MONDAY 11^th  MARCH 2019 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Ray Taylor (chair), twenty one members, TDC Cllrs Ash Ashbee and Carol Messenger and WTC Cllrs Joanna Cornford, Tom King, and Matthew Scott.

APOLOGIES

Apologies had been received from Dave Morrish, Barry and Anne Wells and TDC Cllrs Sam Bambridge, and Mick Tomlinson.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

The minutes of the last meeting, (11/02/19), which had been circulated, were agreed as a correct record on a prop. by James Brazier sec. by Tony Snow, and adopted, and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

1)      Council Tax Increase in Westgate.  James Brazier pointed out that due to a late change the council tax increase would now be 1.8%

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

TDC Cllr Carol Messenger:

1)      Pancake Race.  Thanks are due to WTC for a very well organised event which was great fun and enjoyed by all.

2)      Lymington Road Crossing.  Work has been done to change the poles so they are more visible.

3)      New Houses.  Millwood Homes have submitted a proposal for building on the site from Minster Road to Shottendane Road.  The local plan will be going for public examination at St Augustines from 2^nd to 4^th April, 9^th to 12^th April, and 16^th to 18^th April.

4)      Vehicles in Cambourne Avenue.  Up to four vehicles have been observed to carry the same number plate, and this is being investigated, and may subsequently be passed to police and enforcement for removal.

5)      Travellers in Westbrook.  Residents are advised to beware of offers of work on driveways which are usually of poor  quality and have no warranty.    

TDC Cllr Ash Ashbee:

1)      Travellers by Sunken Gardens.  Cllr Ash had called in to TDC on the Friday when they appeared, having preciously been  evicted from Dane Valley.  The required procedure had been initiated, and a section 77 notice issued directing them to remove themselves in twenty four hours, failure to do so results in it going to court.  TDC teams are collecting rubbish twice a day, and will thoroughly clean the site when they have gone.  This has been the fourth or fifth site they have arrived at in a few months, there is no travellers site in Thanet but there is one in Dover but it appears they are unwilling to go there.  Do not give work as already one resident has had more cash demanded than originally agreed.  There are children on site who are not at school.  Residents are advised to keep doors and windows secure.

WRC Cllr Joanna Cornford:

1)      Social Prescribing Day.  This is being organised by Westgate Surgery and is to be held in Christ Church URC on Thursday 14^th March 1.00pm to 3.00pm. The aims are to support people who may feel socially isolated with activities and volunteers will be required.

2)      Speedwatch.  More volunteers are required.

3)      Defibrillator Training.  This at the moment is fully booked.

WTC Cllr Matthew Scott:

1)      Lymington Road Notice Board.  This has now been authorised for placement on the wall at no 3.

2)      WTC Saturday Surgery.  The next one to be held on 16^th March 10.00am to 11.30am, when Cllrs O'Connor and Scott will be in attendance.

3)      Neighbourhood Watch.  Mr Adam Sackett hopes to regenerate this, and may use social media.

Questions/Comments:  James Brazier noted that in the report of the proposed “Westgate in Bloom” in the Gazette the war memorial  had been described as “in a state of disrepair”, and this was incorrect. Cllr Scott agreed to rectify this.

Chris Whittingham reported that a Westbrook resident had a wheelie bin which had blown over and broken the lid hinges.  On contacting TDC to request a repair he had been told he would have to have a new one as they did not now carry out repairs, and the charge would be £48.  This did not only seem wasteful but could prove very difficult for any resident unable to afford it.  Cllr Ashbee agreed to look into this.

Ray Taylor said details of “Westgate in Bloom” had been received by the W&WRA.

KCC Warden Laura Bungard:

In her February report Laura reflected on the change and development of the role of a Warden, and how this fits in with policing and PCSOs.  For  matters of a police nature call 101 and report.  Laura's main work is with the  council, highways issues, rubbish, fly tips, parking, drains, lighting etc. Wardens have always promoted KCC services, but are now  undertaking new work including visits to  vulnerable residents and any referrals that may be required, and help so that residents may stay in their own home, care in the community is now a large part of the  work.

Laura's contact:  tel 07969583922, and email laura.bungard@kent.gov.uk

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

In his penultimate month as chairman for the year Ray said it had been a difficult year, Mick Tomlinson had been unable to carry on, and there had been many difficulties, but the W&WRA is now strong and in a good position and will be focusing onto the communities as a whole and less in the Bake House.

Items being arranged in the community include Easter Egg hunt (April), Beach Party (June), supporting WTC with Westgate in Bloom and Westgate Day, and sponsoring  the town Christmas tree.

Some items belonging to the W&WRA, or to individual members, will need to be cleared from the shelter, and members need to decide how and what is done with the various items in the store, these include: tables and chairs, pictures and prints (the picture of the town hall belongs to Kath Bonner), hostess trolley, speakers and microphones (these are currently on loan to WTC), chest of drawers (purchased from a gift left to the W&WRA in memory of Barbara Whitlock), and a roll desk, photo albums, cushions, and a complete set of W&WRA “Record” magazines, and the china.

For the April general meeting a young lady from the Life Saver Volunteer Service will give us an overview of the use of defibrillators and how to facilitate setting one up in Westbrook.  Thanks are due to Cllr Carol Messenger for setting this up.

Again thanks to Cllr Messenger for achieving the improvements to the Lymington Road crossing.

The April meeting will again be in the Bake House, which will give the option of holding the AGM meeting in May at the Bowls Club where there is more room.  Nomination slips for the new committee will be in the magazine which will be ready shortly, or nominations may be made on the form in the Bake House.

Questions/Comments:

A suggestion to purchase a bench from the proceeds of the sale of the items listed was made, Cllr Messenger recommended the price of such a bench be checked as the value of the second hand furniture may not be sufficient.

PLANNING  APPLICATIONS

1)      14, St Benets Road.  Application for single storey rear extension.

2)      15, Victoria Avenue.  Proposed variation of condition 2 of planning ref F/TH/17/0852 for erection of two storey detached dwelling to allow alterations to landscaping.

TREASURER'S REPORT  

The bank balance stands at £5,134.  Finances were about £2,000 down due to not receiving sub-letting rentals or tea/coffee money.

Direct debits for water and electricity had been cancelled as the tenancy had ended, and closing balance details were awaited.  TDC had been informed that we had vacated the premises on 30^th September 2018.

A request for refund of overpaid rent for October to January (£1,040), had been made, less a buildings insurance premium of £239.11, leaving a balance of  refund owing to us of £800.89.

The matter of the stopped cheque has been resolved.

EDITOR'S REPORT

Ray Taylor informed the meeting that the next magazine due out shortly would be delivered to road stewards in bundles by himself and Christina.

SUNSHINE REPORT

Mavis reported that six cards had been sent this month.

MEMBERSHIP

Christina reported that the files were being prepared for the new association year and receipt of subscriptions.

CIVIC REPORT

Westgate Heritage Centre:  Next meeting Saturday 6^th April at 10.30am at St Saviour's Church, when there will be an illustrated  talk by Jill Beechey - “More Westgate Memories”.

Civic Society: Thursday 4^th April at the Walpole Bay Hotel at 7.30pm,  a talk by Jane Wenham-Jones (author, journalist, presenter, interviewer, creative writing tutor,  writing competition judge and speaker) – subject to be confirmed.

The Civic Society Town Pride Awards nominations have been made, and of the seven, two are from Westgate.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

SOCIAL REPORT

1)      Easter Egg Hunt.  This will take place in Westgate, and will start and finish at the Ice House Easter Saturday, approx time 10.30am to 12.00noon.

2)      Beach Party West Bay.  Sunday 9^th June in conjunction with West Bay Cafe.

3)      Next social lunch at The Swan will be  17^th March, twenty three members have booked.

Thanks were expressed to Viv and Tracy Gurney (co-opted to help) for these ongoing arrangements.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

1)      Letter Boxes.  Chris Wyer noted that at least three letter boxes on the sea front had been painted, one apparently at 6.00am!  The phone box by Bridge Road is now without telephone and derelict.

2)      “Hi Neighbour” leaflets.  Members had received these recently and were concerned that it may be a scam.  Ray confirmed it is OK and quite a good local website.

3)      Parked Car by St Augustines.  This car in the road is marked for sale, and observed by Chris Wyer.  It was recommended that Chris speaks to Laura the Warden.

4)      Westbrook & Margate Parish/Town Council.  Cllr Ash Ashbee said that this could be much better for the area than the present Charter Trustee system which has very limited powers.  More things could be done other than the present ceremonial duties only, and the area could lose out without this type of council.

5)      Sunken Gardens.  Members were very concerned about rubbish and damage in the area due to the travellers.  Cllr Ashbee assured the meeting that the TDC team will carry out a thorough clean up, so that it will be safe for the volunteers to continue their work.

6)      The Bake House.  Cllr Joanna Cornford hoped that the new hire arrangements would reduce costs to the W&WRA, and would also be more available to others.                                        

NEXT MEETING

Monday 8^th April, at the Bake House 7.00pm for 7.15pm.  

There being no other business the meeting concluded at 8.30pm.