Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning, Town & Environment Committee

Home , A31 road, A road, Picket Hill, Picket Post, Shobley

OPEN SESSION: There were no members of the public present.

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING, TOWN & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

Held on Friday 14th September at 2.00pm

Cllr Mark Steele (Vice-Chairman) Cllr Stephanie Stokes Cllr Richard Frampton Cllr Angela Wiseman

IN ATTENDANCE: Jo Stannard, Deputy Town Clerk Claire Perrens, Meetings Administrator Lauren Dickson, Student Advisor Nuala Brothers, Student Advisor

The Deputy Town Clerk reported that apologies for absence had been received from Cllr Burgess-Kennar and Cllr Chard..

In the absence of Cllr Burgess-Kennar, Cllr Steele chaired the meeting. He warmly welcomed the two new Student Advisors for 2012-2013, Nuala Brothers and Lauren Dickson, to their first meeting.

P/4984 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Cllr Frampton declared a pecuniary interest – see P/4986 below.

P/4985 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING

RESOLVED: That the Minutes of the Meeting held on 17th August 2012, having been circulated, be approved and signed as a correct record.

P/4986 PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Cllr Frampton declared a pecuniary interest in Planning Applications 12/97746 and 12/97775, as he is a member of the New Forest National Park Authority Planning Committee. Cllr Frampton offered advice on these applications, but took no part in the debate or decisions made.

Members considered the planning applications as detailed in Annex A attached.

RESOLVED: That the observations summarised in Annex A be submitted.

ACTION Claire Perrens

Page 1 of 4

P/4987 PLANNING APPEAL – 62 NORTH POULNER ROAD

The Committee considered an appeal regarding Planning Application 12/98234 – 62 North Poulner Road:- House; access and parking. The Town Council recommended Refusal (4). Members considered the proposal to represent overdevelopment and to be contrary to the local distinctiveness of the existing street scene; it would have a negative impact on traffic movement by reducing the provision of parking spaces whilst increasing the number of residents and it would be seriously detrimental to the residents of Number 64 by reason of the bulk of the proposed extension causing loss of amenity and light to the windows in the front elevation.

RESOLVED: That no further comments be made regarding this appeal.

ACTION Jo Stannard

P/4988 PLANNING APPEAL – 117 CHRISTCHURCH ROAD

Members considered an appeal regarding Planning Application 12/98289 – 117 Christchurch Road:- Render all elevations. The Town Council recommended Refusal (4). The Committee did not agree that there are rendered properties in close proximity to 117 Christchurch Road and it was felt this proposal would not be in keeping with the street scene and would be detrimental to local distinctiveness.

It was noted that there were some modern buildings which were a mixture of render and brick nearby, but apart from Candlesticks, which was painted not rendered, there were no rendered buildings within close proximity of the site.

RESOLVED: That no further comments be made regarding this appeal.

ACTION Jo Stannard

P/4989 SAFETY MEASURES ON THE A31 WORKING PARTY

Members considered the A31 Ringwood Section report, which was tabled at the meeting. A statement of support from the Labour Party had been appended to the report.

A comment had been put forward by two residents that the Report could include the suggestion that a yellow box junction be installed on the roundabout, for traffic leaving Ringwood turning right onto the A31 or heading towards Salisbury on the A338. This safety measure would improve the flow of traffic at busy times.

RECOMMENDED: That the A31 Ringwood Section report (see Annex B) be approved, with the suggested additions of: i) reference to the impact of future housing developments on traffic and congestion, to be included in the preamble; and ii) reference to the possibility of a yellow box junction to be installed on the roundabout, for traffic leaving Ringwood turning right onto the A31 or heading towards Salisbury on the A338. This safety measure would improve the flow of traffic at busy times. Page 2 of 4

ACTION C Perrens

P/4990 BLUE BADGE SCHEME CHARGING CONSULTATION

Members considered the New Forest District Council consultation on whether charges should be introduced for Blue Badge holders to park in Council car parks – see report attached as Annex C.

Members noted that whilst Blue Badge holders remained entitled to park free of charge on the public highway, any measure to introduce charges in the car park was likely to result in more parking on areas with parking restrictions, leading to traffic congestion and creating a hazard for pedestrians and other vehicles.

The Student Advisors commented that disabled people have enough difficulties, and it would be a pity if some were discouraged from leaving their homes by the introduction of measures such as this. Members felt this was a good point and could have a negative economic impact on the Town, especially if other local towns across the county border offered better parking options. Nuala Brothers also suggested that to improve the experience for Blue Badge holders, retailers might be persuaded to provide incentives encouraging them to use the available disabled spaces rather than parking on the public highway.

RESOLVED: 1) That the Town Council oppose the introduction of charging for use of the car park by Blue Badge holders, as such a scheme was likely to result in more parking on areas with parking restrictions, leading to traffic congestion and creating a hazard for pedestrians and other vehicles, due to the entitlement of Blue Badge holders to park free of charge on the public highway; and 2) That the suggestion to introduce incentives encouraging Blue Badge holders to use the available disabled spaces rather than parking on the public highway be incorporated in the Council’s response.

ACTION Jo Stannard

P/4991 NEW FOREST DISTRICT (OUTSIDE THE NATIONAL PARK) LOCAL PLAN – PART 2 SITES AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT

The Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to conduct the Public Examination had advised the District Council to undertake further consultation, as detailed in 1.2 of Annex D attached. Members considered the concern raised in the attached report regarding the ‘soundness’ of the plan. Although, as they had not yet been submitted, the Town Council had not been able to comment on the supplementary documents Green Infrastructure Strategy and Open Space, Members agreed that as there was no requirement for these documents to be produced in advance of the Local Plan Part 2, it could not be argued that their omission affected the soundness of the Plan.

It was noted that the only change made to Policy RING4 had been to delete the words ‘Long Stay’, so the Town Centre Opportunity Site for retail is now identified in ‘The Furlong Car Park’. This could still mean that shops could in future be built some distance Page 3 of 4 from the town centre. At its meeting on 27th April, this Committee recommended “that the revised site is in the southern part of the Furlong Car Park fronting Meeting House Lane” (P/4953 (4) refers). Members agreed that the Town Council should participate in the Public Examination in order to comment on this matter.

RESOLVED: 1) That the Council re-submit its comment on Policy RING4 in response to the further consultation on the soundness of the Plan; 2) That the Inspector be advised that the Town Council wishes to participate in the Examination to speak specifically on Policy RING4 relating to the proposed Town Centre Opportunity Site; and 3) That the Chairman of the Committee be nominated to represent the Town Council at the Examination.

ACTION Jo Stannard / Cllr Burgess-Kennar (Chairman)

There being no further business, the Chairman closed the meeting at 3.30pm.

RECEIVED APPROVED 26th September 2012 12th October 2012

TOWN MAYOR COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN

Note: The text in the Action Boxes above does not form part of these minutes.

Page 4 of 4

Council Motion in the names of Councillor Christine Ford

Councillor Michael Thierry

That Ringwood Town Council, having deep concerns related to the number of vehicle accidents on the urban stretch of the A31 in Hampshire from Picket Post to the Ashley Heath interchange, and having regard to public opinion, petitions the Highways Authority to once again review, in consultation with this Council, measures which implemented, would have a beneficial impact on the accident rate on that section of the A31.

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Introduction The section of the A31 Trunk Road which passes through Ringwood could be designated an 'accident black spot'. It is the public concern related to these accidents which underpins the Council Motion. The Motion seeks to implement road safety measures which would reduce that accident rate. The Motion seeks to establish a consultation process between the Highways Authority, Ringwood Town Council and other involved stakeholders to discuss the safety issues of the highway from the Picket Post Interchange, east of Ringwood to the Ashley Heath Interchange west of Ringwood.

Ringwood Town Council accepts the engineering limitations and financial constraints involved in upgrading the section. It is not possible to re-build the road.

It is, however, possible that improved highway warning signage and additional information signage might have a positive safety impact.

Ringwood Town Council acknowledges that it does not have expertise in matters related to highway safety and the regulations which govern the national highway system. The Council does represent the views of local residents, who, over many years have come to know the road to be prone to motoring incidents, and seeks a discussion and review of the road.

The Council is wanting to be better informed of the policy and strategy of the Highways Authority for that section of the A31 which cuts through the town boundary. This can only be achieved by 'round the table' discussion, in a friendly and constructive atmosphere.

A31 Overview (West) This overview begins at the Picket Post Interchange and follows the A31 dual carriageway west to the Ashley Heath Interchange and then repeats the assessment east from the Ashley Heath Interchange to the Picket Post Interchange. The driving time between Picket Post and the Ashley Heath Interchange at just under 70mph is just under 4 minutes.

The geography of the A31 (Ringwood) 1.1 At the Picket Post Interchange a slip road from the Shell petrol station and Burley joins the A31. The slip road has good visibility for vehicles joining and those already using the A31 at this point are aware of vehicles joining. 1.2 Lay-by.

1.3 Access to and from Hightown Hill and Crow. 1.4 Lay-by and Access to and from Private Residences. 1.5 Lay-by and Access to and from Breach Lane. 1.6 Access to and from Private Residences.

2.1 Slip lane leaving the A31 at the Poulner Interchange (West) allows for easy exit from the A31. 2.2 Slip lane joining the A31 at the Poulner Interchange (West) is very short and a problematic 'black spot'.

3.3 Slip lane leaving the A31 at the Ringwood Interchange (West) is dual lane allowing for correct lane positioning left to Ringwood (Town Centre and Christchurch (133347). and right for Fordingbridge and Salisbury (A338). 3.4 The A31 Ringwood Interchange has a dual carriage flyover which curves to the left. 3.5 Slip lane joining the A31 at the Ringwood Interchange (West). 3.6 The A31 at the Ringwood Interchange develops into three and then four lanes.

4.1 West Street, Ringwood exits unto the A31. 4.2 Texaco Petrol Station and Convenience Store is located almost immediately at the end of the West Street and Fish Inn exit. The Petrol Station has usual 'in and out' arrangement. The exit requires careful judgement in respect of three lane of moving traffic often changing lanes at this point. 4.3 Slip lane to Verwood B3081. 4.4 At the Ashley Heath Interchange the road filters, two lanes left feeding the A338 the Wessex Way and Three Legged Cross and Horton two lanes taking traffic west A31 to Poole, Dorchester and the West Country. A31 Ringwood Interchange

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A31 Overview (East) The Ashley Heath Interchange East is comprised of four lanes, two lanes, the A31 from the west, being joined by two slip lanes. The A338 and the Ringwood/Horton Road. 5.1 Slip lane exit to Verwood B3081 is just inside the Dorset/Hampshire Border. 5.2 Slip lane joining the A31 East from Verwood B3081. 6.1 Slip lane leaving the A31 at the Ringwood Interchange (East) is dual lane allowing for correct lane positioning right to Ringwood (town Centre and Christchurch (133347) and left for Fordingbridge and Salisbury. 6.2 Slip lane joining the A31 East from the Ringwood Interchange (East) at the end of the fly-over. Slip lane leaving the A31 at the Poulner Interchange (East) exit from the A31. 7.1 7.2 Slip lane joining the A31 at the Poulner Interchange (East). 7.3 Poulner Hill 7.4 Private access for Little Forest Lodge. Slip lane exit leaving the A31 for Hangersley and Garden Centre. 7.5 7.6 Slip lane joining the A31 from Hangerstey and Garden Centre. Slip lane exit leaving the A31 for Shobley. 7.7 7.8 Slip lane joining the A31 from Shobley.

8.1 Single slip lane leaving the A31 at the Picket Post Interchange.

A31 Ringwood Interchange, Verwood Interchange \ / and Ashley Heath Interchange I

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A31 Ringwood Section Observations and Comments

A31 Picket Post Interchange (West) to Poulner Interchange (West) 9.1 Picket Hill drops sharply down from Picket Post to the Poulner Interchange (West). The decline results in a natural increase of speed for moving traffic. 9.2 Potential hazards are the three lay-bys, feeder roads and private access entrances which merge unto the A31. (Vehicles joining the A31 from these access points do so from a 'standing start'). Various Interchange slip lanes.

Comment

A31 Poulner Interchange (West) 10.1 The slip lane leaving the A31 at the Poulner Interchange (West) inclines assisting a slowing down of traffic to the mini roundabout at the summit. There are no speed restriction signs. 11.2 However when traffic is very slow or at a stand-still at this point the slip lane up and down is used by vehicles, at increased speed, wishing to get ahead of the non-moving flow of traffic on the A31. 11.3 The slip lane from the Poulner Interchange (West) joining the A31 is very short, tenth of a mile. Careful judgement is required when merging. At high speed 70mph it is not possible to attain a 'safe' joining speed from the slip lane. With no break in the traffic, often it is necessary to join the dual carriageway from a 'standing start'. At this point speed is a factor, and motorists joining the A31 can be a matter of 'trust to luck' and hope that approaching vehicles will take avoiding action. 11 .4 Visibility for those joining is severely restricted. For users already using the road they are unable to see emerging traffic coming down the slip road, as the angle is quite steep. Visual time awareness of traffic joining from the left-hand side at speed is but a matter of seconds, particularly at 70mph.

Observation -

L The speed permitted on the leaving and joining slip lanes is not specified. High speeds on slip roads is a feature. ii. Clear signage on the Poulner Interchange (West) indicating that traffic joins the A31. iii. Improved signage indicating merging traffic.

A31 West Street/Fish Inn/Texaco Petrol StationNerwood B3081 (West) 12.1 The Bridges to the Verwood B3081 slip road section of the A31 has a number of elements within less than the width of a football pitch. 12.2 The exit from West Street is complicated by vehicles wanting to use the Texaco Petrol Station.

At that point various traffic flows are possible. 12.2.a Traffic coming over the fly-over wanting to move left either into the petrol station or moving onto the Verwood slip road, perhaps needing to cross lanes of moving traffic. 12.2.b Traffic coming over the fly-over wanting to continue ahead on the A31. 12.2.c Traffic emerging from West Street wanting to move over to the right hand lanes for the A31.

12.3.d Traffic having used the petrol station wanting to rejoin the A31 from a standing start. 12.4.e Fish Inn customers can also exit from the Fish Inn car park directly unto the A31.

At that point the A31 is three lanes, with vehicles seeking to manoeuvre into their onward lane. These various elements make this a very dangerous section. 12.3 The slip lane from the Verwood B3081 joins the A31 increasing the number of lanes to four.

Comment -

West Street/Fish Inn/Texaco Petrol Station/Verwood B3081 (West) is one of the 'Black Spots' on the Ringwood section of the A31. Motorists leaving it until the last moment before getting into the correct lane contributes to the problem.

Observation -

i. Measures to better inform the road user of the directional lanes are desirable. ii. Distance between vehicles and lane discipline is vital. iii. However the vehicle user must be made fully aware of the need for both. iv. The Ringwood approach has three bridges spanning the dual carriageway, from the Poulner Interchange to the Ringwood Interchange. The middle bridge is pedestrian. v. At critical times might traffic lights be a consideration. V. Might these bridges not be used to indicate direction lanes? This would afford users the opportunity to get into the correct lane before the enter the fly-over rather than emerging from the fly-over into a confused traffic situation. All three bridges are suitable for lane information.

A31 Poutner Interchange ( East) 13.1 The slip lane leaving the A31 at the Poulner Interchange (East) entrances the A31 almost at the bottom of Picket Hill. Often the traffic becomes very slow moving because HGV and other large vehicles use both lanes creating a built-up of trailing traffic.

Observation -

i. The creation of a Crawler Lane would assist traffic flow moving east proceeding up Picket Hill.

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Introduction Of 50mph limit \ There is a volume of opinion which would like to see a Y p( reduction of the posted speed limit on the section. Many residents consider that a more appropriate limit would be t 50mph. They argue that the Ringwood section of the A31 t_\ '7 'S - i" I is an urban area and therefore the sped limit should reflect ' _ that fact. 50 r

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Summary It is recognised by Ringwood Town Council that 'driver error' is the main reason for accidents. Improved road signage and lane directives would assist in reducing 'driver error'.

'Driver error' occurs because of the need to make unprepared lane changes. Reminding vehicle users to 'Keep your distance' if observed should reduce 'driver error'.

Residents are of the firm opinion that speed is contribuary factor in 'driver error'.

In short summary residents point very clearly to poor and inadequate signage and speed.

Congestion on the A31 from Picket Post remains a significant issue. At peak time traffic may 'bunch-up' causing traffic jams and any accident or set of road works causses delay. The worst place for congestion is at the roundabout at the junction of the A338 and the A31. Difficulties in joining the A31 from adjoining roads, (such as the A338), causes further problems. Appendix A

Letters to newspapers Newspaper articles Accident profile 2005 to 2007 Ringwood and Fbvdln~&bridge NEWS4jJ new sofas now in stock

Issue 580 May 9th to May 22nd 2012 -- Distributed Free and Published Fortnightly. Est. 1990

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--- A31 QUAKER Ringwood MEETING Of 'T*j petition (ti1 iki J*s of THE 8ecUun at 111. i31 Tui1 1 Fd Mt 2* Rand Tillicli fliF']u!li dir RlIiyIo'3d could lie d$I9- 1 Liy ]3th L4zt Ii te'1 all 'ac:c II en t Mack .. ' - - -.,.s iLt weliLM)Y 11.dL Jii&) iQt , It IS tile I]'Jl3iic c']li cciii IClt8d to The It ffi. Ikciid CnTth Cth'! .cL I4) ace-IIJAIlts vAllell un derpl il: i1jiLdA, H.uth motion Agreed liy OPENTO ALL Rli1gioad Toni Council. Lf! EM'k Yale. O14 O1X That Pingwo3d Tiwii C. all uiI, lp'iiit d.!.p o3iiceviii re b.tCCL to t Iie ii ii in i:.r of 'eli ide :1 1E :Eeiit j ii the ii rb'. ii tretch ; KINU CII1JRUH af the A31 iii HlllpIIirC fratii Picket Paft to the N(l%' 7(.QIL fbj Ai, 67 He'.tli iuiter , The W1 t:eitti -e cIi'.ue, and lia'iiii rtthihR1. Rirx4 re' rd to pu bhic , 1j u ici ii, i:etitiaii the Hliwa- Every Sui diy .Ailtho rit.7 ta auae aaiu t 1a3am rie in caimiltntiaii Cc.xL T4kLoxt Nth with thti CaisiiCH I iiie'.0 re-s iii li me pk- 01423 4r? 194 iieeeitI, mIaiikl have www4e'ia:I.J,1Jli,!IlI,lJ Iti b'II!'tlI.l illIl)'Ct an L - the 'cci:Leeit rate an - I that e.tiaee of the ,3 1'

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A31 on the Town Council agenda - IT is proposed that Ringwood Town Council seek a meeting with the Highway Authority to discuss the vexed question of the section of the A31 which runs through the town. At the full council meeting in March a Council Motion in the names of Councillor Christine Ford and Councillor Michael Thierry, was accepted and moved to the Planning, Town & Environment Committee. The committee supported the motion which will now be debated by the full council in April. If approved the .4. Small Business Start-up Service motion, 'That Ringwood Town Council, having deep concerns related to the number of vehicle accidents on lR35 Contractor Tax Solutions NWi the urban stretch of the A31 in Hampshire from Picket Post to the Ashley Heath interchange, and having re- Sole Trader Budget Service NEW gard to public opinion, petitions the Highway Authority to once again review, in consultation with this Coun- Limited Companies cil, measures which, implemented would have a beneficial impact on the appalling accident rate on that Payroll, CIS, Bookkeeping, VAT section of the A3 1 ', which means the Town Council are approaching the Highway Authority for a meeting. Award-winning Accountants www.artema.co.uk In speaking to the motion Councillor Ford and Councillor Thierry advocated a broad approach to the Telephone 01425 470044 problems of the A3 1, not wishing to center solely on the speed. Improved driver information prior to the section, clear road marking and traffic speed signs on entering slip roads off the A31 were being called for. r The A3 I, from Picket Post to the Ashley Heath interchange has a history of accidents and incidents at all Need a suit? levels over the years, claiming a number of fatallities and people suffering serious and minor injury. Not all Dislike shopping? accidents are recorded. Can't find the time? Recently Ringwood residents have taken to writing to the Highway Authority and this newspaper ex- Made to measure tailoring pressing their views, in essence wanting something to be done to reduce incidents. Ladies and Gent suits and The town council is to give additional weight to the concerns which have been expressed. separates chosen in the comfort of your own home. Anytime - Day or Evening - Alterations - Choose from over 700 cloth Spate of thefts from unlocked vehicles samples Styles to suit all tastes DRIVERS are asked to help crack car crime when they leave their vehicles parked in the Personally delivered I' Prices to suit all pockets New Forest during the summer months. Police have issued the warning in a bid to reduce Telephone Bill King car crime in the district's rural and town car parks following a recent spate of thefts from (01425) 654307 unlocked vehicles. The Safer New Forest Partnership advises drivers and their passengers to remove all valuable items - including coats, CDs, mobiles and laptops from their parked vehicles and to lock their vehicle securely. Insp Alex Reading, of New Forest East Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: 'Car crime does occur and the police are doing a lot to combat it. However people could help them- selves and help us to further reduce the problem by taking some simple crime prevention measures like locking car doors and removing all valuables.' He is concerned that satnavs, computers, purses, bags and other valuables have been left on show inside the vehicle or covered with a cloth in an attempt to hide them. WSB Cur Jill Cleary, NFDC portfolio holder for housing and communi- -GROUP- ties, said: 'I really hope visitors to the New Forest will lock their cars securely and remove any valuable items. Thieves may be watching your movements in the car park and while you are enjoying your time in the Make a move in the right direction forest, you run the risk of returning to find your belongings stolen if you don't take these crime prevention measures.' SPECIAL OFFER A bright yellow Hampshire Constabulary notice is available which can be displayed in vehicles stating: 'No valuables have been left in this vehicle.' They are available free of charge by contacting Commu- nity Safety co-ordinator Stephanie Bennett at Safer New Forest, New 0% Commission., Forest District Council, Appletree Court, Lyndhurst. SO43 7PA. I ;1 I [L'I'1 1'TY' LILIM4XIN4 For First 6 Months For New Landlords Only! Hotpoint 7 kg drier £189.00 'Terms and Conditions Apply' including 5 year parts guarantee New Hotpoint 1400 spin auto only £320.00 RINGWOOD OFFICE 68 High Street, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 1AQ including 5 year parts guarantee Telephone 01425 477992 Repairs Installation [email protected] Sales & Parts for Domestic Appliances

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expressing your views . . . LETTERS

50 mph - The common sense answer Ringwood and I must try to bring home to you the serious situation that has developed regarding the A31 road at Ringwood. Fordingbridge We are now experiencing a weekly occurrence of major accidents resulting in death, multi car collisions and gridlock traffic jams. It is a death defying struggle to get out of our drive and all the many NEWS other houses that exit directly on to the A3 I. So far the only reaction has been to erect very expensive electronic warning signs on Poulner Hill that are of no use whatsoever, the motorist has no P0 Box 908, Ringwood, idea what they are for and their operation bears no relation to the traffic position. Hampshire BH24 1YL 50 mph limit. The common sense answer though not perfect would make this road between St Telephone Leonards, the Ringwood interchange, Poulner Hill and Picket Post a 50 mph limit and join up with the existing 50 mph limit at St Leonards. (08456) 479095 So far we have only had gross buck-passing between Councils, local Councillors, civil servants email: (Highways dept) and our MP. Funds for expensive electronic signs, new Council buildings, semi [email protected] pedestrianised Southampton road, all can be funded at the stroke of a pen. The extension of the speed limit on the A31 pales into insignificance though the result would improve the safety on this over used main artery and increase traffic flow and save lives. This request is not the final answer to the problem though it would go a long way to increase safety. To have a four lane interchange resulting in crossover of three lanes at 70 mph in a distance of NTG E L quarter of a mile would not be acceptable on any major motorway interchange and Ringwood has this very situation. Something must be done! We don't need another review, we don't need to hear that it's not our BUSH responsibility, we must have action now. Richard Starley PAINTING AND At last his talent can be appreciated DECORATING I was so interested to read the article "Sketchbook and entertaining tales" about Bill

Hill. Why so interested - I have two pencil drawings given to me and my husband by him Tel: & Fax: (01425) 471464 in 1977. They were of our wonderful Collie dog called 'Misty". [email protected] He drew both these pictures from photographs we had of Misty. I think I used to talk to him in the range I ree and may nave mentioned my aog and ne ala tnese for us on just really a scrap of paper. Are you finding it difficult coping at home? I have treasured these over the years as my dog is long gone now. They have moved with me wherever I have lived. Are you worried about a family member at home alone? I still have pictures in my mind of Bill cycling around Ringwood on his bike - always with a red neckerchief round his neck and shorts showing his very tanned legs. He always had a tan and looked just the part of an artist. I did know he lived in a cottage up lam, lnlrVibrbr~ BURLEY'S at Lynford and he was such a lovely character around Ringwood. Ajh Sorely missed. I have often asked people about him, but not many T How can we help? seem to remember him, and also have looked on the internet to Personal Support Housekeeping Respite find his art work, but haven't tracked anything down. So it was such Meals Errands ’Shopping Laundry a lovely surprise to see his daughter in your paper giving some of Fully insured and CRB Checked his work to be shown in the local Library. I have gone to have a Office 01425 470411 - Mobile 07950 042005 look at the well known local scenes in the Library and they are of www.burleyshomecareservices.co.uk such a high quality and should be seen. I am so pleased that at long last his talent can be appreciated by the folk of Ringwood. 'The finest care, the greatest fun, the most encouragement' Details supplied ,.

Vol, Eiingham Road verges a disgrace : g: House I agree with Brian Walters, our road verges are a . ...... : Ii -. Day Nursery (Ringwood) disgrace especially on the A31 and spur road. As a local resident I am ashamed of the litter one sees driving The Region's Premier Day Nursery down these roads - anyone from the continent will think that we are a filthy nation. Excellent Baby-Unit, Toddler & Pre-School Depts. Never mind Brian, at the end of June many council workers will come out of the woodwork and a huge clean-up will commence. Simply 'Outstanding' Ofited 2006 & 2009 Why, you may well ask, the Olympics of course. The locals have Please Telephone (01425) 473723 to put up with the mess but visitors to the "Greatest Show of the Year" must be shown a clean and bright Hampshire/Dorset. to arrange your private tour of the nursery Michael Bull www.ellinghamhouse.co.uk Telephone 08456 479095 - Ringwood & Fordingbridge NEWS - Page 13

expressing your views... LETTERS & NEWS

50 mph - The common sense answer Ilingwood and I am supportive of much of Richard Starley's comments in his letter (issue 575) and agree that the extension of the 50 mph limit on the A31 could help but isn't the final Fordingbridge answer. I may be pessimistic but those who currently exceed the speed limit will continue to do so and NEWS there will be a significant minority who having become accustomed to the present limit may (conscious- ly or unconsciously) not comply with a lower limit. P0 Box 908, Ringwood, The most significant factor behind the regular carnage on that stretch of the A31 (and this applies Hampshire BH24 1YL equally to the A338 between Downton and Ringwood) is driver behaviour. Telephone I often drive along both stretches of road and am appalled at the regular occurrences of - to name a few: (08456) 479095 Excessive speed (irrespective of the speed limit or the prevailing traffic/road conditions) email: Overtaking where it is clearly unsafe (evasive action taken by other road users avoiding many [email protected] potential accidents) Tailgating (even breaking slightly to activate brake lights doesn’t seem to correct offender behaviour) Using hand held devices whilst driving (since this has become a specific offence the practise seems to have become more widespread) NTG E L The apparently common belief that a speed limit is an instruction to drive at that speed Until these behaviours are changed and common sense prevails there will regrettably still be accidents irrespective of any changes to the speed limit. BUSH I don't know what the answer is but even allowing for the financial constraints within the public sec- tor perhaps the police mounting a "zero tolerance" operation a few times a year might have a PAINTING worthwhile impact although I concede that this may only touch the tip of the iceberg. Maybe convicted offenders should undertake compulsory training (as opposed to the current volun- AND tary option which some offenders accept as an alternative to points on their licence).The income from DECORATING the training (which is usually provided by the police) may at least partially offset the cost of the zero tolerance operation. Perhaps persistent offenders should have their licence downgraded to provisional and be required to pass the test before regaining a full licence. Tel: & Fax: (01425) 471464 I can't make any of that happen so can somebody pass these ideas to someone who can please? [email protected] Tony Ecroyd r ------Letters, Are you finding it difficult coping at home? Are you worried about a family member at home alone? P0 Box 908, I Ringwood, BH24 1YL 1' '1 email: [email protected] BURLEYS ------HowIr can we help? Associate . Al Personal Support Housekeeping Respite director Meals Errands Shopping Laundry GOADSBY'S Ringwood Fully insured and CRB Checked Office 01425 470411 - Mobile 07950 042005 Branch welcomes Kate " www.burleyshomecareservices.co.uk West, Associate Director, to - the team. Kate has been with Goadsby for over six - 'The finest care, the greatest fun, years successfully manag- the most encouragement' ing branches across Dorset and Hampshire. Kate prides herself on the L Ellingham professional and efficient service - offered to her landlords and is House looking forward to demonstrat- Day Nursery (Ringwood) ing Goadsbys high levels of customer service in the historic market town. The Region's Premier Day Nursery Kate reports, 'Our lettings offices have seen a great start to 2012, Excellent Baby-Unit, Toddler & Pre-School Depts. reporting a huge increase in lets agreed on the same period last year. The high levels of enquiries we are receiving on properties that are Simply 'Outstanding' Oft/ed 2006 & 2009 available to let makes now a great time to bring properties to the market'. Kate urges anyone considering letting their property or looking Please Telephone (01425) 473723 to invest in property to contact the Ringwood Office on 01425 to arrange your private tour of the nursery 470283. wwwellinahamhouse.co.uk Page 14 - Ringwood & Fordingbridge NEWS - Telephone 08456 479095

LETTERS ... expressing your views Seen and heard Support for Cancer Research UK May I request an entry in your paper to thank my sup- accidents on porters for their generosity to Cancer Research UK. This year's collection from Ringwood amounted to £7,500.00, this almost a daily basis was due to the supporters' hard work. J. Gordon I would like to add mine to those of the many residents in Ringwood and surrounding areas regarding the issues over the A3l. Ringwood friends I have lived at Picket Hill for 16 years and in that time have seen I would like to thank my friends in Ringwood who always and heard accidents on almost a daily basis. The resultant tailbacks greet me well when I return from my home now in the affect people for miles around as does the noise which also impacts Gambia West Africa, whenever I come to the UK to see my on the value of the houses adjacent to the A3 I. You could argue that family. residents choose to live here but 16 years ago the traffic was not as I am treated with great hospitality and friendship in the town constant or as heavy as it is now. from so many people, far too many to list, but they know who they I, like many others, have approached the Highways Agency via let- are. Life goes on, always go forward, never look back. ter and phone, asking for something to be done but have received Bruce Berry (Formerly of the Owl Sanctuary) stock answers and no action. In a recent letter in the local newspaper, someone asked 'where Thanks to Rotary Club else in the country would you have motorway speeds on a stretch of We feel that our thanks should be offered to all the road which is joined directly by private driveways, laybys, numerous members of the Rotary Club of Ringwood who gave their exit roads, a major town intersection and a four lane crossover?' time and effort into arranging a visit to the show Titanic for This sums it up and more than supports the need for a 50 mph some of the older people of Ringwood.This show was fol- speed limit between the Burley exit to the Spur Road junction or lowed by a welcome meal at Greyfriars. It was very much ideally beyond to connect up with the existing St. Leonards 50mph appreciated.Thank you. section (Eastbound) and vice versa Westbound. Three residents of Mary Mitchell Close This would at least address all the issues until such time as the Highways also decide to listen to the level of noise pollution and resurface with a low-noise surface, Letters Elaine Brett P0 Box 908, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 1YL email: [email protected]

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V..L I_I - II TIFI I iF r.. .- -A i ii& r-. 35 years Established LETTERS .. . expressing your views Painter & Decorator Interior and Exterior A package of Councillor's Rooms decorated improvements needed Corner.. from Having read the last two editions of your publication, it Cur Michael Thierry is clear that there is again a gradual build up of public opin- £150.00 I It has been a week or so of (Plus materials) ion, in favour of a 50mph speed limit on the A3 I, between planning issues. What have I Fully insured Picket Post and Ashley Health. Phone Steve 01425 477118 learnt from the two cases com- Mobile 07971 579438 From my Roads Policing and Council background, I would like to ing my way? offer the following observations, in support of the idea and again One centered on the position suggest a broader view, regarding improvements and enforcement. I on planning application plans of wrote a very similar letter in 2008 and I therefore suspect that the the boundary. In this particular same may be true in 2016! case planning permission had How About a Conservatory? We however, should all await the results of the Crash Investiga- been given a number of years tion from the recent fatal collision, before we jump to the ago and with building work now Friendly & Professional Advice conclusion that the crash occurred due to speeds in excess of commencing the boundary posi- Offered without Obligation tion has become an issue. Finest Quality products 50mph. A 50mph limit will not solve all the problems covered in So a word to the wise, if you Fully Guaranteed Installations the various letters published to date. Having experienced the diffi- have some interest in a planning culties faced when exiting the petrol station at St Leonards and application, certainly if you are Call David Rowland other locations, in both directions, within the current Dorset 50mph directly affected, do check the now on 01425 476686 limit, a reduced speed limit will not provide an automatic and easy or see me at submitted plans carefully. remedy. As speeds reduce, vehicles drive closer together and the RINGWOOD MARKET - WEDNESDAY Genuine mistakes do happen, By the Church 'gaps' to gain access to the main road, become smaller. Speed limits better to raise the matter at the [email protected] do not change driver behaviour unless other factors are introduced. time rather than try to resolve the - Therefore signs, road engineering and other safety engineering, issue some time later. C%S A will also need to be considered, as suggested by one of your recent Listening to the background readers. of another possible planning The Fish Inn slip road is a classic example of road engineering.A application it crossed my mind tk, AA I that perhaps planning agents I ,Ja'a '.11 IU# .1 fl.#I, linked to a slip road off the A3 I, might care to consider, like the into a garage.A possible answer, adverts on television often tell us in respect of an injury claim, 'no remove the Fish Inn slip road or win - no fee'. introduce a third lane, between In the profession of planning that slip road and the Verwood High level water fed pure water pole system available consultancy and advice the slip, if possible, with lane restric- Window Upto 65ft reach for those hard to get at windows slogan might be, 'No planning Cleaning Domestic & Commercial To include frame cleaning tions. Clearly there is a need for permission - no fee'. a wide ranging traffic study, not Guttering, Fascias cleared and cleaned Whether you get your plan- Pressure Patios, Pavements and Driveways cleaned one that lust focuses on a ning permission or not using an Washing Conservatory roofs and all UPVC cleaned 50mph speed limit. agent there will be a fee to pay. Any measures suggested and The planning process is lit- [email protected] introduced, will then need to be tered with applications which 73 Queensway, Ringwood, Hampshire 'policed' firmly and regularly, not have been refused at every stage. left to 'self police', as seen on Yes some applicants are deter- mined and press on. There are the A31 at St Leonards. others however, who have been The Road Policing resources I . , poorly advised by consultants, have all but disappeared in who had they, at the top of their Hampshire, so I fear that this letter-head stated, 'No planning aspect will not be covered. If I'm permission - no fee', would have wrong, expect local people to been far more careful when HDM be 'caught' and fined, as is always advising their clients. the case when these types of changes are introduced. This / Servicing / MOT's section of road is a problem MP & Councillors / Diesel or Petrol that needs to be addressed, with Rt Hon Desmond Swayne MP a 50mph limit from Picket Post, ClIr Christine Ford / Catalyst Tested linking up with the existing 50mph area in Dorset.Two ClIr Steve Rippon-Swaine Petrol & Diesel - Brake Clutch & Shock Absorbers Counties are involved therefore Cllr Michael Thierry All Repairs - Warranty Work - All Makes & Models the process will be difficult and Will be holding a Free Collection & Delivery - Open 6 Days a Week lengthy. Morning Open Surgery We do however, in my opin- All major credit cards taken on Saturday. ion, need a package of improvements, not lust a April 14th at lOOOam reduced speed limit. Lesley Errington Hall Jim Clegg Stillwater Park, North Poulner Road, Ringwood BH24 3JZ Telephone 08456 479095- Ringwood & Fordingbridge NEWS - Page 17

expressing your views . . . LETTERS

50 mph - The common sense answer Ringwood and Like other Ringwood residents, I have long been annoyed by the Jack of a 50 mph speed limit of the A31 from Picket Post to the Ashley Heath roundabout. It would be safer, qui- Fordingbridge eter and less stressful for us all. So I wrote to the Highways Agency and this is what they say: NEWS "The Area 3 network, including the A3 I, was subject to a speed limit review in February 2010; under The Department for Transport Circular 1/06 "Setting Local Speed Limits", which required all Traffic P0 Box 908, Ringwood, Authorities to review their local speed limits by 2011. Under the Speed Management Investigatory Hampshire BH24 1YL Levels the A31 in the Ringwood area was found to be below the investigatory level and therefore no Telephone further action was proposed to be taken at that time in regards to a speed reduction. Only if the results were above these levels would further investigations or a study be required. (08456) 479095 The Highways Agency have been working closely with the Department for Environment, Food and email: Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to produce maps and action plans for major noise sources, as required by the [email protected] Environmental Noise (England) Regulations. The noise maps for England's roads were published on 16 May 2008.These maps, which include most of the strategic roads for which the HA is responsible, are available to view at the following link: http://www.defra.gov.uk/environmentlquality/noise/environmental-noise/action-plans/important-first- priority/These maps have been used to develop draft noise action plans.A public consultation on the NTGEL, draft noise action plans was launched by Defra on 15 July 2010, and lasted for a 16 week period. All consultation documents can be found at the following link: http://archive.defra.gov.uklenvironment/quality/noise/environment/actionplan/background.htm BUSH In the document strategic roads are addressed in the draft 'Major Road Noise Action Plan'.The draft plans have set out thresholds to identify 'First Priority Locations' at which measures to manage noise PAINTING need to be considered further.A number of these locations have been identified adjacent to strategic roads.These locations include sections adjacent to the A31 between Picket Post and Ashley Heath. AND The Agency have confirmed that they have recently completed investigations to see what noise miti- DECORATING gation measures, if any, might be feasible at all Important Areas with First Priority Locations and other important locations alongside strategic roads identified during DEFRA's 'first round' noise action planning process. Tel: & Fax: (01425) 471464 They are now finalising reports for each of the investigations undertaken. These reports will include [email protected] details of any feasible noise mitigation measures identified during the investigation process and will be sent to the relevant local authorities for consultation from spring 2012 onwards. However, installation of any noise mitigation meas- Are you finding it difficult coping at home? ures identified in the investigation process would be subject to available funding. Unfortunately at this time we cannot comment on Are you worried about a family member at home alone? whether any specific noise attenuation measures will be installed along the A31 in the Ringwood area. The second round of noise mapping and action planning will be AW undertaken by DEFRA during 2012 and 2013 respectively. Should you have any further questions regarding your enquiry, T. .AAA please contact us at [email protected] How can we help? In other words, there is something we can do. If you, as a Personal Support Housekeeping Respite Ringwood resident, feel strongly, please contact the Highways Meals Errands Shopping Laundry agency with your concerns.The more we make ourselves heard, the Fully insured and CRIB Checked more likely it is that something will be done about it. Office 01425 470411 - Mobile 07950 042005 Drjuliane Couch BSC MBBS MRCPAKC wwwbur!eyshomecareservices.co.uk

'The finest care, the greatest fun, Wording is ridiculous the most encouragement' "Police and Trading Standards Notice." In white letters ,- 1-11l 1 upon a blue back ground colour. Below this, upon a red '1. iiingnam background it said "No Cold Calling". Then in black print lettering upon a white background House were the words "No Univited Sales People" then under Day Nursery (Ringwood) that upon a blue background were the words. "You are not welcome. Please leave my property and do not call again". I The Region's Premier Day Nursery telephoned the number given (New Forest District Council) and requested the said item. Excellent Baby-Unit, Toddler & Pre-School Depts. I have received a bright yellow colour sticker, but the words upon it make little sense. Black lettering upon it says "We do not Simply 'Outstanding' Ofsted 2006 & 2009 sell or buy at this door. No Unwanted Callers Please." Please Telephone (01425) 473723 Would you not agree, the wording is ridiculous. I am not selling at to arrange your private tour of the nursery my door. I am not buying. www.elllnghamhouse.co.uk C. D. Fakenbridge Telephone 08456 479095- Ringwood & Fordingbridge NEWS - Page 19

expressing your views . . . LETTERS

50 mph The common sense answer - Like Richard Starley (his letter appeared in issue 575) I too have approached my MP and the Highways Agency regarding the A3 I. Several letters later I have heard every I excuse imaginable telling me why we don't need a 50mph speed limit on the stretch of road from Picket Post on through and away from Ringwood. I take my life in my hands on a daily basis using the Hightown/Crow exit on to the A3 I. There are I no signs prior to this exit - warning motorists that vehicles join the dual carriageway so passing cars can Letters, be travelling at speeds well above 70mph. There are layby exits and as Mr. Starley says, private house i driveways that also join the carriageway before the Poulner turn off so they are equally at risk. The I P0 Box 908, Highways Agency in particular stress that the accident rate for this area is not high but the frequent Rinnwood sirens, tailback queues and radio reports suggest otherwise, as does the tact that I have heard the I ' impact of crashes from my own garden! I BH24 1 YL Someone suggested that the authorities do not want to police a reduction in speed limit yet speed vans are regularly positioned on both sides of the St. Leonards section where the 50mph applies so I do I [email protected] '------not understand why this cannot be implemented on a much more dangerous and complex stretch of road? Many Ringwood residents have raised this issue over a long period of time - is anyone out there listening? Elaine Brett 14 11 I_ NFDC Sites and Development Plan I refer to the above document and would like to comment and place my objections to BUSH parts of the document for the following reasons. The objections specifically relate to the PAINTING proposals for Ringwood within the report. Generally I find that there is very little substance included in the document which addresses the AND points set out in the 'Ringwood Town Access Plan'. The proposals for development fail to address the principal aim of the Ringwood Town Access Plan (1.11) which is to reduce the adverse impact of traffic. DECORATING Many of the proposals will feed additional traffic back onto roads where fundamental traffic management problems exist at present particularly at peak times. The proposed employment generating and Tel' & Fax (01425) 471464 housing proposals will further load roads through the town and increase flows onto the A31 and A338. [email protected] It has been recognised that car parking within the town centre is at a premium and at peak times narticularlv in the summer months when visitor numbers are at their peak the main car parks are full and traffic looking for parking spaces can back up to other roads and cause substantial delays to Are you finding it difficult coping at home? traffic trying to gain access to other areas of the town. Are you worried about a family member at home alone? The prospect of the proposed retail development on the Furlong Long Stay Car Park as set out in RING 4 Ref I, will have many fundamental effects on the town. These are:- - The High Street already suffers from lack of Visitors who are BURLEY'S unfamiliar with the town layout and a further retail area will further reduce numbers and turn the High Street into a secondary retail area which already comprises of a substantial number of offices, How can we help? Personal Support Housekeeping Respite banks, building society premises and charity shops as well as empty Errands Shopping Laundry properties. Meals Fully insured and CRB Checked In addition to the parking spaces lost for the building a major Office 01425 470411 - Mobile 07950 042005 retailer will require about 200 additional parking spaces. This in www.burleyshomecareservices.co.uk .,.4Aiei,-,r, t,-, tl,,, I,-ct will r,-uhir ,iitdina with multi tnrev -.-t'-.. --- .-h-...-...... parking totally out of character to the rest of this historic town. fail to see how this can be achieved whilst complying with the prin- 'The finest care, the greatest fun, ciples set out in the NFDC Core Strategy for design quality. the most encouragement' The Furlong Long Stay Car Park also has a picnic area adjacent which is well used and offers a green buffer to the main roads. Ellingham In addition to the bulk of the building I can envisage that any retailer using this building would like to capitalise on the elevation House facing the A31 to advertise their presence. This will further detract Day Nursery (Ringwood) from the visual presence of the building and add pressure to remove planting which may screen the building. There are already proposals to develop the rear of the old Premier Day Nursery Cinema area of the town with retail. This development is long Toddler & Pre-School Depts. overdue and any additional retail proposals may deter developers from pursuing this scheme if the viability in the long term is in Simply 'Outstanding' Ofsted 2006 & 2009 doubt. For the above reasons I object to the proposal and urge the Please Telephone (01425) 473723 New Forest District Council to remove the proposals for retail development from the Development Plan. to arrange your private tour of the nursery Dick Sheerin, Chartered Architect www.ellirighamhouse.co.uk - Page 20 - Ringwood & Fordingbridge NEWS - Telephone 08456 479095

LETTERS ... expressing your views Safety measures on this accident prone stretch of road

I have been interested to read that the 50 mph limit on The Highways Agency is currently conducting surveys of roads the A31 from Picket Post to the Ashley Heath Roundabout which cause excess noise. Surely the A31 at Ringwood should be top has, once again, been discussed on your Letters pages. Back of that list? Let's do everything we can to lessen the impact of the in 2008 I think I was the first to set the ball rolling and over A31 on our pleasant New Forest Market Town and its surroundings. the year some two dozen letters followed on this subject, It isn't a Motorway - yet it is allowed to roar through our midst day almost all of them calling for a reduction of the speed limit and night. Please let them know what you think! and/or other safety measures on this accident prone stretch Alison Riddell of road. At first many Councillors (both Town and District) were reluctant Leader who is not afraid to back the campaign but finally both Councils voted for a 50 mph limit - only to be blocked by the Highways Agency who felt that Issue 577.Welcome Mr Grant. If only one could say what there had not been enough accidents or fatalities to warrant such a one would like to, only it would not be printed for some stu- speed restriction. I think the people of Ringwood should be listened pid reason. Mr Grant you are half right with what you say to in this instance.We all know about the regular accidents, we see about the house building. the traffic slowing down, we hear the wail of sirens ... Is it really sen- We do not need half as many as they say we need. But for some sible to allow cars to travel at 70 mph (or more) on this notorious reason known to most people but one you are forgetting on pur- stretch of road with all its awkward slip roads, junctions, laybys and pose with regards to our water shortage. Now you know what that driveways? Motorway speeds on a road fraught with hazards. is and all the major parties support it. They are called anti-English. I cannot believe that speed is not a factor in these accidents, and One can tell there are elections coming up and we know his if, as we know, it was seen fit to introduce a 50 mph limit just down party will condemn every thing until after the election.Would it not the road at St. Leonards, it seems quite illogical not to extend that be good for this great country of England to stand up for this coun- same limit up to the top of our hill at Picket Post.We do not have try and not allow murderers, rapists and goodness knows what to any roundabouts as they do at St. Leonards - there is nothing to roam our streets.When he says across Europe he means England be- make people slow down and be prepared for problems ahead. cause Europe send them to us and we are too soft to do any thing However, Dr Crouch's letter (28th March issue) also importantly about it. Come on let's get a leader who is not afraid. highlights noise pollution, and calls for everyone to contact the High- S Rasey ways Agency with their concerns. If enough people write, then just maybe something will happen. www.highways.gov.uk for contact details. Confusing wording My letter in issue 577. Perhaps I misconstrued the wording of the said sticker, it made it appear that one was not selling eggs, plants, veg etc. at one's door. However this very morning, I had a gentleman at the front door, asking if I was interested in selling any jewellery, antiques or similar i3ickerley Garage items. I pointed to the sticker, it appears he could not read. I spoke with a different member of staff when I phoned NFDC to discuss the Kings Arms Lane Ringwood BH24 1AH wording.That member of staff agreed the wording could cause con- fusion. I have since spoken with an elderly local resident who told me of recently receiving a leaflet through her letter box, wording read r "We will buy anything you no longer require, Jewellery, Furniture, Pic- tures etc". Having no such items she binned it. Later that day, a chap Under New came to the door, when told "Nothing to sell" he requested the leaflet back, they had cost him money to print. She left him on the !inagenieid doorstep to go and retrieve it. On coming back indoors, he had For all your motoring needs in the heart of Ringwood stepped uninvited into the hallway, looking at various items. I now ap- preciate why the wording "We do not sell at the door" could be cor- Free delivery and collection from local area rect.We must remember to not leave unknown characters /callers on the door step. but to close the door securely. AA C.D. Fakenbridge MOTs A arranged An evening with Clutches All Makes Timing Belts . L'INVOY FriPAUS Brakes Tyres FA Cup Winner 2008 with Portsmouth FC; Batteries Models Friday, 4th May at 7.30pm We welcome all customers - both old and new Trinity Centre, Christchurch Road, Ringwood For any assistance please call Kay on 01425 412372 £4.00 including Ploughmans Supper Customer satisfaction is our No 1 aim For further details telephone Tony on 01425 480717 All major credit cards accepted

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ifirhes" .co. uk advertising@advert iserandtimes, co. uk 2012 35p m Forest MP bac oft petition for 'A, safet' C', c'mpail EW Forest West MP Desmond KEYMAV ER NSwayne has declared his sup home port for a petition demandin g Sailing dub delight WAianeused as it ratrmijust dents the county couxrii admitte d safety Improvements to the bus A satling club will soon get a ace rds from the home of Hainp. the YUlO px mosal to close off Back A31 at Ringwood £310000 clubhouse after 2 vest's o iv County Council leader Ken LanQ had ci a public so suits fundraising. Hurst Castle will rnber will be controversially tion'but clahried that proved some- The motion, by tov rn councillor 'S it ed for six months In a surprise what inconclusive'. oun. Michael Thierry anci Coun. place its existing building, wItiel ye which has angered and be L 'o.drued that it wa now felt Christine Ford, who are b oth former it has used since 1949. Comrnodori tiered villagers, the eL s ire would be the "best way nt ma'ora of the town, has attract Ian Daly said: Everyone in tin pre'-'ias it c' aracter', and MOM tti a 1,000 siatures arid 'oil torisLs will be stQfted tram tl'eHhtasAgoriey a club is ljlited and amazed tha' Lg 510cr full 1 1 Back public 0,iSUil it lOfl S UO1 I lit Odif' es a we'vnetl to get to this point, when tI t' oxperte clrrcure Out tri,imo explaining: niniprovin toe tret s late lb's linstead con ultation is not normally n Pro 5d from Pleke Pus o he AShley t. o nake t lie taken prior to lmplement Heath Interchange. pert nentai traffic ache a as It deel&64eaccident. rat e Rio e n tnc in r v'th this, and the firsttx of its nra section 01 rood isapp BRAMSHAw ice e b yb o ff operaUonwould effe rrn th e and urges S formal re- ew o 0 & came, O tauonn' Hoe;. bog rescue Mrol Fir -we there was t alSi elain,ea er at tc fl A trapped horse survived train 4 surveys e cried the lane had Jpealdng to I e A&T' Mr - e [or Uc c,v ui u tl fl 0 uut4'i said: "1 am hopc'lul that t his test jut-ed after firefighters freed it fran net site only I anti ab out it in identified h'cftr thhn expec ted 1 v els'ottraaie. pet ition wIL hove mo re of an Impac t, c IIicI) "Or Eighteen -year- alt1 V ic 'C se ff thils becau se re I ',ez cast elan, was ru a- - ba&,ing of he ttri'ia '1,Voocl had I3lt riding n'irirt , me wo Jeunhiwthr communityI an d the Council ha s of a omaP l ane Nvith a good bished by 84 - y e a r-old rends 1,1 01 , when the dflini,ii srcl1 itt Sn lived on cleaxly put a, lot of thought ari d effor t record li oriority Twner who has Back Lane o their stud y, " Furatey Lore. She managed to hok 'lliv sincesi dl previous for more thi '0 sears and forxno' the animals head above the sur partthcouiioillorvndretir He added' 1 fullyupport the .1 - ser tltrosv ou r, ter . edteacher face until crews from Lyndhursl 1 p etitions -U - Ann Dev, Wl a live, in neSrby initiative. I have rnade r epresenta- -n. a- The colntv L Pitnioro Lane and Ocgaliis(U the tions man' tirnes over the l ast and Eastleigh arrived at the scene neviousi- concluded th at Ur )iO opposition ie I' tOO decade to the ai ys Agenc y." Page i:t put Il E 10,000_ 030j)()O, eofld MrsDew aiclshessould be.puttlng The petition es issue With c a new petition It the 'Ula"e s news 70mph sp eed limit onane)dt , slip nier n- , store, ac'ding: rI only vlitager . oSci that h as a pedestrian cros sixi py CHRISTCHURCH era "local cy at who may bOTIefit corn such expe 1f' a,, dots-n, the high numb 'r or while New bstrictt tU &dC tiC 1,N who live i rl tinc tons from Picket PoSt to 'shie victim's struggle cii leader- y ?arish Lane andxtot' 'lot themarelni'lbi Heath and the lack of crawler lanes [B arry of the closure, for HGVs going up Poulner IIUI. fnari battling cancer hat ian i no print I have t eve ,net any oe fl of ear 'in aih to look suer lefl'i tram r find moto Idz It proposes a 50mph ipied' 'Uj 'ion " and o e slgnage, which the OouM1T VfOtiniiy after her benefits were sgei, é'o laW d hi the Ate . ri there I ' amp roan suddenly stopped Susan Shep - have nev er IOUiI ti dMi' o otmefi wo~rkers a 0- pard (46) of V i u kery Wy said stir Lahe to 'or any uireasa &ViOt ; replace noeuvres, ,- W as U's rugl ' a Dp lrifltnr ig a Wooder one opposite She s aidI the m vault be iëSotCoUThonibr,odhis better spcnt on improving road Speakdrig at arece nt t o' -fl comic' for Won,- and Pensions' decision uou1sto stop Cattle andocet safety* a tthe Station Roan c'o meeting , Coun 'Lb erry I ailed adding: At the ntornent 1 cant see a Off the Forest, que'iordr' ' '" sin anurch Road, adding' T opt o had signed the petition the light at the end of the tunnel,' tel the work was a good Lise o wouldse ein that tlits time Ii" a is to Which he said ,.vas prou' ig pooul& Pages nancy in no priori onsutatlon prior t o the and had only one naturea na the county Council said the' evorit, and OPIrUOnS are only to be He said ie had rece ive d a a sked after or event arldt iieex 1eter 01 of "routine en ftom the Hig hways Ag' c ' chief a ice' Inure has occuroccurre ci Appar otis' t he and"nothlrd 51 executive that at' ed inciden ts on i 0 do with anr afin 'a'ar'b,- pert .1 car neil SlIP not asked their this section of the A1 over the pr at I )VER 90 JOBS 1 0 ertles. 'Jl liOIi but told that thAs e vent was two year' had ben classified as vever, It a i,i,incn I lea cc 4 declined to corimie R i all t', and that ne ther it, the poli ce suddeti 'deIs1on to trail the e ferr ng to the previous fence or, anipshlre Co Council. 1, Back Laie:, d Cotta whiel has now been replaced, Mti prted a reduction in tie speed iliflit. Dew said white it '"as In a poor sta roer wti not' ab'' 'a re oun. Thlerry said this respoi'e becauSe iw r at corn was 111 abie to do its job of irwed it was Important the- 'town (touedon council takes the lead 'ale in urilng tterse Lan for a spood requetion. as no othe rj ----- . . Labour's Plan For lobs And Growth Vz 9 With you in tough times This is a tough time for families people back to work & strengthen in Ringwood, struggling with our economy for the future. higher food/fuel prices and utility bills and worried about their jobs 3. Reversing the Tory-led and their children's futures, Government's damaging VAT rise That's why Labour has set out a now for a temporary period - a clear five-point plan for jobs, to £450 boost for a couple with help struggling families and children - immediate help for our support small businesses. high streets and for struggling families and pensioners. Labour's jobs and growth plan includes: 4. A one year cut in VAT to 5% on home improvements, repairs and 1. A £2 billion tax on bank maintenance - to help bonuses to fund a real jobs homeowners and small guarantee for all young people businesses, out of work for a year and build 25,000 more affordable homes. S. A one year national insurance tax break for every small firm 2. Bringing forward long-term which takes on extra workers - investment projects schools, helping small businesses to grow roads and transport - to get and create jobs.

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Annex C

REPORT TO PLANNING, TOWN & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE 14TH SEPTEMBER 2012

BLUE BADGE SCHEME CHARGING CONSULTATION

1. New Forest District Council is seeking the views of local residents and organisations on whether charges should be introduced for Blue Badge holders to park in Council car parks.

2. Currently, the 10,200 badge holders in the New Forest have exclusive use of the disabled bays and do not have to pay to park, which costs the District Council in excess of £40,000 per annum.

3. The District Council is reviewing the existing arrangements because it believes that, where reasonable, all motorists should pay to park as the income helps to maintain the car parks and provides other services. The Council also believes that charging Blue Badge holders to park may reduce the incentive for badges to be used fraudulently.

4. The use of Blue Badges on public highways is governed by national regulations and is not affected.

5. To assist the discussion on whether or not the Town Council believes Blue Badge holders should be charged to park in Council car parks, Members may wish to consider the following points:

i) Under the existing arrangement, there is no correlation between the need to use a disabled parking bay and the ability to pay for that space. ii) The purpose of disabled parking bays is to provide parking as close to shops and services as possible for the benefit of those less able. iii) The scheme is not designed as a welfare benefit. iv) Some disabled people may find it difficult to access the ‘pay and display’ ticket machines. iv) If charges were introduced, this could increase the desire for Blue Badge holders to park free of charge on the public highway.

6. It is RECOMMENDED that Members consider the points above and agree the Council’s response at the meeting.

For further information, contact:

Jo Stannard Deputy Town Clerk

Direct Dial: 01425 484721 Switchboard: 01425 473883 [email protected]

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Annex D

PLANNING, TOWN & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE 14TH SEPTEMBER 2012

NEW FOREST DISTRICT (OUTSIDE THE NATIONAL PARK) LOCAL PLAN PART 2 – SITES AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT

1. Additional Consultation

1.1 The Local Plan Part 2 (formerly referred to as the Sites and Development Management Development Plan Document) was submitted by New Forest District Council to the Secretary of State on 12th July 2012 for the process of Public Examination.

1.2 The Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to conduct the Public Examination has advised the District Council to undertake a further round of consultation on the following matters only:

i) The ‘soundness’ of the Plan in the context of the final version of the National Planning Policy Framework published in March 2012. ii) The District Council’s Proposed Changes Schedule – this is a list of changes proposed by the District Council to the Pre-Submission Document in response to representations received in the period 20th January to 2nd March 2012. iii) The Errata List.

The documents referred to in ii) and iii) are available to view in the office or on the District Council’s website at http://www.newforest.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=12878.

1.3 The Town Council’s response to the Pre-Submission Document stated that it did not consider the Document to be sound, on the basis that two key documents referred to in Policy DM9 – the Green Infrastructure Strategy Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and the Open Space SPD had not yet been produced. In addition, the proposed Policy RING4 could have resulted in a new shopping area being created on the edge of town.

1.4 The District Council has not proposed any changes to DM9, save that the Errata List amends the wording of all relevant sentences to state that the Green Infrastructure Strategy and Open Space SPDs will be published.

1.5 The only change made to Policy RING4 is to delete the words ‘Long Stay’, so the Town Centre Opportunity Site for retail is now identified in ‘The Furlong Car Park’, which could still mean that shops could be built some distance from the edge of the town centre.

1.6 The amendments outlined in paragraphs 1.4 and 1.5 above do not address the Town Council’s concerns about the soundness of the Document.

1.7 The Town Council has made submissions to the District Council over many years on housing and open space requirements and the need for a relief road. However, the District Council has failed to take on board local opinion, particularly the findings from the Ringwood Town Plan and the detailed response to the Pre-Submission Document. It is difficult therefore to be confident that the required SPDs will be produced to the satisfaction of the

Page 1 of 2 Town Council and that any new retail development will be located in an area so as not to be to the detriment of the town centre.

1.8 It is RECOMMENDED that the Council resubmits its comments in relation to the soundness of the Document and submits that the removal of the words ‘Long Stay’ in Policy RING4 does not go far enough to allay the Council’s concerns about a possible detrimental effect on the Town Centre.

2. Public Examination

2.1 The Secretary of State has appointed Mr Simon Emerson of the Planning Inspectorate to conduct the Examination. Hearings for the Examination are expected to commence on 20th November and will be held at the District Council’s offices in Lyndhurst.

2.2 The Town Council has been listed as a participant in the draft programme for the Hearing, although it is not clear on which issue it is expected to speak on.

2.3 Each respondent is allowed one seat at the table for the roundtable discussions, with supporting persons behind if necessary.

2.4 Following discussions with the Chairman of the Committee, it is

RECOMMENDED that 1) The Inspector be advised that the Town Council wishes to participate in the Examination to speak specifically on Policy RING4 relating to the proposed Town Centre Opportunity Site and, if appropriate, on the soundness of the Plan and; 2) The Chairman of the Committee is nominated to represent the Town Council at the Examination.

For further information, contact:

Jo Stannard Deputy Town Clerk

Direct Dial: 01425 484721 Switchboard: 01425 473883 [email protected]

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