INDEX
1995
January - December Access for Disabled
Improvements to Council Owned Facilities 18
Allotments Allotment Competition 1995 318,501
Apnointments Q Outside Bodies
Rochford Youth Service Local CommIttee 248,490,503
Association of District Councils ADC Annual Meeting and Conference - June 1995 Notices of Motion - Youth Initiatives, Live Animals for Slaughter, Release of Captial Housing Receipts 100,136 Single Local Authority Association 208,338,479 Annual Meeting and Conference 1995 486
Assets Etheldore/Wood Avenue, Hockley 93a Leasing of Council's Green Belt 93a Brooklyn Drive/Downhall Road, Rayleigh 93a 3la Warwlck Drive, Rochford 93a Little Wheatleys Public Open Space 93a Land Ad]. St John Fisher Playing Fields 93a Purdeys Industrial Estate 93a Southern End of Church Road, Rawreth 93a Marylands Avenue Public Open Space 93a Land Adj 18 Orchard Avenue, Rayleigh 93a Budset Budget 1995/96 77,78 Budget for Highways & Transportation in Essex 95/96 122 Special ProJecta 1994/95 - Budget 1996/97. Balances 336 Human Resources - Planning Ahead (Budget Savings) 357 Budget 1996/97 663,699
Business Link Business Link Update 97,136,340,587
Passenger Rail Franchlslng 21.35 Caravans Mobrle Homes wrthin the Distract 20,145 Transfer of Caravan Site Lrcence 26, Hockley Mobile Homes 45 Caravan Site Licences - LPG Cylrnders 277 Spacrng of Caravans - Progress Report 296 Mobrle Homes Workrng Party 385,534,633 Caravan Sate Lrcence 24 - Breach of Condrtrons 388
Car Parkrnq Car Parkrng Facrlltres, Crvic Suite, Raylergh 110 Car Parking - Frerght House 187,540 Proposed Sunday Market, Back Lane Car Park, Rochford 271 Working Party on Decrimrnalised Parking Enforcement Outsrde London 616 Complaint of Excessive Parkrng and Unauthorised Busrness Use at Nerghbouring Residential Property 683
Chalrmans Announcements Attendances Over the Christmas Perrod 35 Engagements for January and February 1995 135 Engagements for March and April 1995 227 Engagements for the Beginnrng of Municrpal Year 353 Engagements for June and July 1995 455 Engagements for August and September 1995 500 Engagements for October and November 1995 604 Engagements for November 1995 698
Charitres The Charrtres Act 1992 438
Citrzens' Advrce Bureaux Presentation on Forward Plans 581
Clean and Safe Environment I Bus Shelters & Street Tree Maintenance 541(l) Footpath/Alleyway Lighting 541 (ii) Parrsh Street Lrghting 541 (rri) Sponsored Schemes 541 (iv)
Commrttee Structure Cycle of Meetrngs 1995/96 9,247 Committee and Sub Commrttee Meetings 343
Communrtv Charqe Write Offs 203,335,477,582 Communitv Suonort Community Support Prolect 435 Safer Communities Initiative 436 Police and Community Consultative Group 605
Consultations from Neishbourinq Authorities No.CPT/686/94 - Sainsbury Food Store, Thundersley 28 No.CPT/696/94 - 26 Arterral Road, Thundersley 29 Rationalrsatron of Terminal Building at London Southend Airport 30,235 Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan - First Alteration and Land at Fossetts Farm, Sutton Road - Consultation on Deposit Drafts 422 ECC - Lawful Development Certificate - Recyling Centres at Castle Road, Rayleigh and Common Road, Gt Wakering 510 No. SOS/95/0781 Land Adlacent 161 Green Lane, Eastwood 515 Southend on Sea Borough Council - Outline Applrcation SOS/95/0928 711 Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan Second Alteration Land at Fossetts Farm Pre Deposit Consultation Draft 712
Consultations Thurrock B.C. - Financial Assistance Towards Retail Impact Study 84 ECC - Essex Waste Plan - Draft Strategy 85 ECC - Recyling Topic Report 85 ECC - Star Lane Brickworks, Great Wakering, IDO/ROC/9/92A 194 ECC - Devenish Site, Hambro Hill, Rayleigh 236,255 DOE Consultation - Probationary Tenancies and Anti- Social Behaviour on Council Estates 287 Social Services - Proposed Closure of Whittingham House Old Peoples Home, Southend 207 ECC - Essex Minerals Local Plan First Review Consultation on the Deposit Draft 302 DTI Competitrveness White Paper - Forging Ahead - The Role of the Business Link Network 445
Contracts Contracts Progress Reports 53,103,153,288,382,530 Approval of Contractors Selected to Tender for Cyclical Repairs and External Decoratron 1995/96 and for Window Replacement 1995/96 59 Schedule of Rates - Contract No. 1826 and 1827 108 No. 1831 - Replacement Windows at North Street, Rochford 109 Approval of Contractors Selected to Tender for Maintenace of Heating, Hot Water and Air Handling Equipment 1995/97 156 No.1834 - Supply of Wheeled Refuse Containers 157 No 1809 - Cyclical Reparrs Rochford Garden Way 158 No.1810 - Cyclical Reparrs Rochford Area 2 158 No.1811 - Cyclrcal Reparrs Rochford Area 3 158 Contract Progress on No. 1814 188 Approval of Contractors Selected to Tender for Extension and Improvements to Pavilion, Great Wakering Playing Field 189 No 1828 - Window Replacement 1995/96 218 Standrng Approved List of Contractors 219 Approval of Contractors for Cavity Wall Insulation 292 Approval of Contractors for Boiler Replacement and Central Heating Works 292 No 1835 - Maintenance of Heating, Hot Water and Air Handling Equipment at Various Locations 293 No.1809A - External Paintrng, Rochford Garden Way 346 No.1837 - Refurbishment Works and Extension to Pavrlion Great Wakering Playing Field, Great Wakering 411 No.1849 - Boiler Replacement and Central Heating Works - Various Properties 452 No 1850 - Cavrty Wall Insulation - Various Properties 452 No.1788 - Refurbishment and Extension to the Pavilion Great Wakering Playing Field 495
Corporate w Review of Corporate Plan - Transportation 368 Review of Corporate Plan - Health & Housing 370 Review of Corporate Plan - Leisure 406 Review of Corporate Plan - Development 425 Review of Corporate Plan - Policy & Resources 444
Councillors Members Allowances 94 Councillor R S Allen 133 Royal Garden Parties 137 Nomination to Rochford & District Chamber of Trade and Commerce 215 Councillor B A Crick :124,250 Tributes to Retiring Members 228 Members' Day of Visits - September 1995 464 Resignation of Councillor C Askew 502 Members Item of Business - Wider Car Park Bays 543 Vice Chairman of Development Services 567 Proposed Essex Meet the Buyers Event at Brentwood In May 1996 595
Council z Annual Meetinq Election of Chairman of the Council 1995/96 239 Appointment of Vice Chariman of the Council 1995/96 240 Appointment of Chairman for Policy & Resources 1995/96 241 Appointment of Chairmans Chaplain 242 Results of District & Parish Elections - 7th May 1995 243 Record of Councillor Attendances 244 Appointment of Standing Committees 245 Appointment of Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of Committees and Panels of Committees 246,334i, Dates of Meetings 247 Appointment of Representatives to Outside Bodies 248,334ii, Appointment of Member with Special Responsibrlity for The Disabled with Regard to Plannrng Applications 249 Appointment of Members to Meet with Rochford Sports Council 249 Appointment of Mobile Homes Working Party 249 Former Councillor B A Crrck 250 Appointment of Committee places due to C. Askew Resrgnatron 502 Council TaX Setting the Council Tax Base 1995/96 19 Council Tax/Benefits System 23 Setting the Level of Council Tax 1995/96 138,139
Crouch Harbour Authorltv Financial ContrIbutiona 96 Deleqatlons Authorisation of Clvilian Fine Enforcement Officers 98 Food Safety (Fishery Products) Regulations 1992 278 Meat Products (Hygiene) Regulations 1994 278
Deemed Plannins Consent Fencing Of Chlldrens Play Spaces - Conway Avenue, Gt. Wakering 317 Fencing of Chlldrens Play Spaces - Warwick Drive, Rochord 317 Reslting Portakabin, South Street, Rochford 488 Installation of Lift, The Iavers, Hockley Road, Raylelgh 525
Development (General) Desrgn Brief - Raylelgh Avenue/Eastwood Rise 300,640 DOE Urban Design Campaign - Proposals for a Retail Food Store Site In Rochford 419 Vision Statement - Great Wakering 420 Town Centre Enhancements 421 Dlstrlct Plan Open Space Development Programme: Land and Pond at Doggetts, Rochford 93,494 The Use of Security Shutters 394,568 Sponsored Environmental Schemes 541,671 Review of Standard Planning Conditions 569 Explanation of Changes of Use as Defined by Planning Legislatron 570 Friends of the Earth Wildlife Brll 572 Fly Posting 641 Town Centre Management 676
Development Control Statlstrcs Quarter Ending September 1994 115 Quarter Ending December 1994 254 Quarter Endlng March 1995 465 Quarter Ending June 1995 599
Drstrict/Parish Lralson Car Parking Problems 102 Byelaws Prohibiting Drinking in the Streets 102 Easements Proposed Easement for 33 King Henry's Drive, Rochford 424
Electoral Electoral Registration Procedures 206 Periodic Electoral Review 440
Emolovment
Rochford Employment Premium - Progress Report 669
Environmental Health Variation of Licences - Pet Animals Act 1951 43 Zoo Licensing Act 1981 44 Research Report from The Departments of the Environment and Health 61 Electromagnetic Radiation 82 Food Safety - Home Authority Prrnciple 143 Arr Quality Monitoring 144 Approval of Fish and Meat Products Premises 270 Neighbour Noise Controls Consultatron 281 A More Responsive Noise Service 182,379,457,635 Energy Saving Materials Bill 1995 380 Liquor Licensing 437 Street Trading Panel 475 Minor Works Assistance Grants 532 Renovation Grants 594 Environment Act 1995 - Air Quality Management 622 Nuclear Site Licence - Bradwell Power Station 623,699 Sewage Treatment Works - Frnal Effluent Monrtoring 624
I Financial Matters
Debt Collection Service 8 Draft Estimates 1995/96 - Security of the Community 16i, Specral Project Funds 16ri, Hockley Community Centre 25,450,681 Aggregate Credit Llmrt and Treasury Management 202 Request for Frnancial Assistance from Sheffield Crty Councrl 381,527 Srgnrng of Cheques 476 Vrrement Request 662 Chrrstmas Lrghts in Rayleigh - AdditIonal Frnance 668 Councrl Mortgages 615
Footpaths Creation of Public Footpath by Norman Garon Lersure Park, Sutton 214 Footpath Access - Tergnmouth Drive to Durham Way, Rayleigh 613 Grants --and Loans Grant Aid to Outsrde Bodres for 1995/96 6,35 Hullbrrdge Senior Citizens Welfare Council 93b Essex Racial Equality Council 93b National Gypsy Councrl 93b Resrdual Organisations 93b Southend District Mental Health Association 146 Southend Centre for the Homeless 146 British Red Cross ActIon in Essex Appeal 146 Raylelgh Sports & Recreational Club 174 Sports Aid Foundation 174 Rayleigh Methodist Church 174 Ashrngdon Youth Club 174 Hockley & Hawkwell Methodrst Church 174 Rayleigh Talkrng Newspaper 174 Rochford Pre School Playgroups Association 174 The Warehouse Centre 174 Rochford Civil Ard 205 Discovery Club for Disabled and Special Needs Children 409 Mayday Mobile 434,667
Gypsies Crimrnal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 165 Health Electromagnetic Radiation 82 New Health Authorities 520 Charges for Health & Safety Factual Statements 521 Food Safety (General Food Hygiene) Regulations 1995 522 Health & Safety Commission Guidance to Local Authorities 620 The National Environmental Health Action Plan 621 Continuing Health Needs - NHS Consultation Document 613
Honorary Alderman Former Councillor Bernard Crick 373 Presentations to Mr. Crick 374
House Renovation Grants The Flat, Trenders Avenue, Rayleigh 24
Hiahwavs Street Trading Legislation 46 Rayleigh Weir Improvement Scheme 47,280,332,353,361 Social Crossings and New Footways 123 Grange Village - Traffic Management Implications 124,544 Speed Reductions Measures - Rochford District 95/96 125 West Street, Rochford 126,362 Various Streets, Rayleigh - Proposed Variation to Existing Waiting Restrictions 127,371 Proposed Waiting Restrictinos at Sutton Road/Warwick Drive, Rochford and Main Road BlO13/Poplars Avenue, Hawkwell 128 Proposed Temporary Street Closure for Ashingdon Carnival 129 Proposed Temporary Street Closure in Abbey Road, Hullbridge for VE Day Anniversary Street Party 129 Rawreth Lane, Proposed Extension of Existing 40 mph Speed Limit 130 Alternative Options for the Al29 Diversion 131,262 Re-Building of River Bridge, Battlesbridge 132,136 Road Safety Plan - Rochford District 263 Highway Maintenance Programme 1995/96 265 Locally Determined Budget 266,363,538,611 Camera Enforcement 267 Travelwise 268 Passenger Transport Plan 1996/97 IPTP18) Consultation Draft 269 Waiting Restriction - Old Ship Lane, Rochford 270 Public Utility Companies - Notice of Motion 355,369 Traffic Calming and Accident Prevention Measures Great Wakering 363,457 Clean and Safe Environment Budget - 1995/96 364 Ways Through Essex Strategy and Plan 365 Rochford District Cycle Plan 366 Campaign for Better Bus Services 269,367,457 Essex Transcard Scheme (Multi Purpose Transport Ticket) 370,457 Brook Road on Slip to Al27 - Proposed Prohibition of Driving 539 Wider Car Parking Bays 543 New Taxi Bus Service 545 Traffic Management in Rawreth Lane, Rayleigh 612,699 Members Item of Business - Traffic Problems at Eastwood Road/Daws Heath Road, Rayleigh 617
Housinq Mayfield Avenue, Hullbridge 49 Incentives To Do It Yourself Shared Ownership Purchasers 50 Housing Rents 1995/96 51 Revised Third Edition of the Homelessness Code of Guidance for Local Authorities 52 Housing Partnership Fund 1995/96 55 Cash Incentive Scheme 1995/96 - Supplementary Credit Application 56 Presentation by Social Services Department 57 Right to Buy Aged Persons Bungalow 60 Good Neighbour Award Scheme 149 Dispersed Alarm System - "Care Line" 150 Internal Decoration to Aged Persons Units 151 Private Rented Sector - Deposits 152 Sheltered Housing Working Party 155,285 Mayor Policy ObIective - The Conversion of the Older Sheltered Schemes - Resource Allocation 284 Meeting with the Acting Regional Director of Social Services 286 House Renovation Grant - Waiver of Demand for Repayment 294 Tenant of Flatted Accommodation 295 Rehousing for Tenants of the Ling Trust 383 Housing Investment Programme Strategy (HIPS) Statement 1996/97 384 Alleged Breach of Tenancy Conditions 390 Government White Paper "Our Future Homes" 483,503,535,606 Appointment of Hostel Manager - Grested Court and Hatfield House, Rochford 484 Institute of Housing Conference - Nomination of a Councillor to Attend 485 Single Homeless Accommodation Pro]ect in Essex (SHAPE) 523 Empty Property Strategy 524 Programme for the Updating of Sheltered Housing The Lavers, Hockley Road, Raylergh 525 Authority to Issue Notice of Seeking Possession 526 House Renovation Grants - Priority Rating Scheme 627 Springboard Care and Repair Agency 628 Annual Programme of Pre Painting, Repairs and Decorations of Council Dwellings 1996/97 629 Chartered Institute of Housing - East Anglian Branch Conference- Authorised Attendance at 1996 630 Essex Community Care Charter 631 Bed & Breakfast Hotels 632 Housing Application - Mr D. 637 Housing Benefits - The January Changes 661,699 -
Identitv Cards Home Office Green Paper 439 Land Adjacent 36 Pulpits Close, Hockley 303 Land Adjoining Sweyne Park, Rayleigh 574 Local Land Charges - Response Times 584 Community Meeting Hall: St Marks Field, Rochford 585 Stambridge Memorial Ground 592 Junction of Mercer Avenue and Twyford Avenue, Wakering 642 Adjoining 21 London Hill, Rayleigh 645
Leases & Lrcences Hockley Community Centre 25 Rayleigh Sports & Social Club - Rent Review 89 Hullbridge Old Peoples Day Centre 105 Proposed Deed of Grant of Easement - Jubliee Road 528
Leisure Leisure Strategy 66,176,321,407 Skateboard Facilities 67 Youth Facilities - Little Wheatleys, Raylelgh 68 An Alternative Location for a Public Golf Course 69 Charges for Football Pitches 70 Review of Use of Football Pitches 71 National Lottery Consultation Process 73,559 Swimming Lessons 74,172,229,312,332,353 Roller City 75,186,229,328,410,649 Sports Development 77,173,408,553,651 Swimming Pool for Rayleigh 77,175,216,229,313,443,457,670,699 Rayleigh Town Fair 177 Banner in Rayleigh High Street 170 VE & VJ Day Celebrations 179,213 PeaceKeeper Rose 180,282 Children's Play Equipment - Foulness Island 185,229 Provision of Athletics Track 314 Kicklns Wall, Ashinsdon Memorial Plavins_ - Field 315 Canewdon Sports Pavilion 316,353,489 Fencing of Childrens Play Spaces 317 Youth Arts Policy 319,557,648 Rochford Sports Council 322,552 Action Under Standrng Order 18 - Leisure 323 Local Youth Services 325,353 Rochford Area Youth Service - 1995/96 327,412,457,551 Proposed 9 Hole Golf Course at Clements Hall 459 Great Stambridge Village Proposed Play Space 492 Special Events on Playing Fields 554,654 School Summer Holidays - Children's Play 555,652 Essex Games 556 Adult Educatron Initiatives 558 National Lottery Presentation 649 Play Spaces - Summer Problems 650,699 Ernie Adcock Trophy 653,696 Sweyne Choral Society 655,699 Rayleigh Grange Youth Club 677 Essex Playing Fields Association 697
- Lrbrarv Essex Partnership - Library Services 320 Presentation by the County Librarran 405
Lrtter Review of Litter Provisrons 147 w Government Review Gurdelines for Central/Local Government Relations 12 The Future Local Government of Essex 13 Staffing Issues 38 Jornt Conference on Srngle Table Baryainrng 101 Meeting with Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department of the Environment 106,136 Local Government Reorganlstion 207,339 Srngle Local Authority Assocratron 208,479,503 Deregulating Local Government 209 Draft Revrsed Policy and Procedure Guidance 344 New Review of Local Government 447,480 Draft Recommendations 505,547,591,606 Local Government Revrew - Rayleigh Parish 701
.
/ Members Allowakes Allowances for 1996/97 431,457
Members Item of Business Traffic Problems at Eastwood Road/Daws Heath Road, Raylelgh 617 Naminq & Streets New Close off Stambridge Road - "Wheatfrelds" 15 Off Downhall Park Way, Rayleigh - "Ely Way" 167 Off Hatfield Road, Rayleigh - "Falcon Closel' 167 Off Little Wheatleys Estate - "Denham Vale and Polstead Close" 423 Off Hatfield Road, Rayleigh - "Kestrel Grove, Krngfisher Crescent and Heron Gardens" 487 Part of Rochford Hospital Site - "Heritage Way, Sovereign Close and Regency Close" 689 Northern Phase of B1013 Access to Southend - "Cherry Orchard Way" 714
, National &JIJ Domestic Ratlnq Discretionary Rate Relief 204,432,478,666 Hardship 335,347,433,496,682
National Lotterv Consultation Process 73
National Rovers Authorltv Wallasea Island Tidal Defences - Environmental Assessment 168 Essex Shoreline Management Plan, First Stage Report 571 Newsuauer Rochford District Council Newspaper 680,699
Notlces of Motion Public Utility Companies 355,369 Landscape and Views of Rochford 700 Panel Minutes Personnel Sub Committee 5a,5c,20Ie,333b,580 NNDR 5b Leisure Liaison Working Party 65 Asset Management Review Board 93a, Performance Review Panel 93b,201d,333a,43Ob Sheltered Housing Working Party 155 Emergency Panel 201a,333c,474b Rochford Hospital Panel of Members 201b Unemployment & Economic Initiatives Panel 201c Hackney Carriage Panel 430a Review Group on District/Parish Relations 474a Street Trading Panel 475 Recycling Panel 5IV Mobile Homes Working Party 534,606
Parish Matters District/Parish Liaison Meeting . - Car Parking Problems 341(a) - Bye Laws Prohibiting Drinking in the Streets 341(b)
Petitions Improvement Schemes West Street, Rochford 14
Plannlns Awneal Decisions April - December 1994 116
Plannina Anplicatron Performance Twelve Months Ending 31st March 1995 514
Policy Objectives Pursuit of Economic Initiatives and any AdditIonal Funding Opportunities for Rochford 337(i) Maintain Revenue Collection Record following the Introduction of Council Tax 337(ii) Policy Initiatives 345
Provertv
Essex County Council Property Renew 593
Public Entertainment Licences Revised Fee Structure 276 Council's General Regulations for Public Entertainment Licensing 533 Prosecution - Mr R Burroughs 636 Public ODen Soaces
Lower Wyburns, Rayleigh 217 Little Wheatley Chase, Rayleigh 217 Grove Road Public Open Space 217 Sweyne Park 217 Rochford Recreation Ground 217 Hollytree Gardens 217 Land at Mlllview Meadows, Rochford 217 Kendal Park Public Open Space, Hullbridge 307 Little Wheatleys, RayleIgh 442 Magnolia Road Public Open Space 573 Quarterlv Performance ReDOrts Health & Houslng Services 54,154,289,531 Leisure Services 72,184,324,560 Development Services 87,166,306,575 Policy & Resources 104,212,342,589 Recvcling Progress on Recycling Initiatives 283 Concrete Crushing Facllitres 85,418 Home Compostlng Trial 625
Resional Develowment Oraanisation (RDO) Discussrona on the Formation of an RDO 482
Roach Vallev Conservation Zone Future of the Group of Representatives 86,136
Rochford District Local Plan First Review Deposit Draft 162,229 Design Brief - Rayleigh Avenue/Eastwood Rise Housing Site 300 Design Brief - Etheldore Avenue/Wood Avenue, Hockley 417,449
Rochford HOsDital Rochford Hospital Site 111 Minutes of Public Meeting 196 HIP's Rid Strategy Statement 1996/91 290
Rochford m Centre Meeting with Owners/Occupiers of Commercial Premises 14
Recvclinq Council's Recycling Initiatives 48 Consultation from ECC - Essex Waste Plan - Draft Strategy 85 Consultation from ECC - Recycling Topic Report 85 School Governing Bodies Glebe County Junior School 210
Sizewell C Consortium to Oppose Sizewell C 211,229,305,353
Social Services Community Support Initiative 148
Southend Hospital Car Parking Charges 491,503
Staff Miss E. McIlwaine 190 Departmental Restructuring - Changes in Delegation 446 Personnel Sub Commlttee - Annual Appraisals 451 Mr. D S W Collins - Chief Assistant (Legal) - Retirement 456 Organisational Overview - Corporate and Departmental Targets 481,503 Appointment of Chief Executive 497 Mr M. Buck 626 Appointment of a Domestic Voilence Liaison Officer 664 Deputy Section 151 Officer 665 Mr P Hughes 678,702
Standinq Orders Revision of Standing Orders 583
Street Tradinq Street Trading Legislation 46,279,386,386
Street Trees Street Tree Planting Initiatrve 614
Subscriutions Subscriptions 1995/96 95,136
Supulies Essex County Supplies 99
Sunday Tradinq Sunday Trading Act 1994 - Prosecution 389 Advertisements on Vehicles 609(i) Hackney Carriage Fares 609 (ii)
Teach Ins & Seminars Development Control Teach In for Parish Councils 303 Local Government Review and New Directlons - A Stronger Community Focus Seminar 586,606 National Housing and Town Planning Council Conference 713
Terms of Reference Plannlny Services Committee 252 Transportation Committee 260 Health & Houslny Services Committee 273 Development Services Committee 298 Lelsure Services Commlttee 309
Town & Country Plannlnq Design, Heritage and Conservation Award Scheme 164 Proposed Second Explosive Waste/Incinerator (Static), Sorting/Crushing Faclllty- MOD, Foulness Island 400 Devenish Site, Hambro H111, Raylelgh 236,462,509,690 Makro, Rawreth Ind. Est, Rawreth Lane, Raylelgh 511 Planning Policy Guidance Note 6 (revised), Town Centres and Retall Development 512 Proposed Demilitarisation, Ammunition Storage and Processing Facility with Associated Works and Bulldings Ministry of Defence Establishment, Foulness Island 601 Lighting of Station Approach, Hockley 691 Change of Use from Class Al Shop to Class A3 (Food & Drznk) 128 High Street, Rayleiyh 693
TOwn Centre Enhancements Hockley, Hawkwell and Great Wakerlny 421
Town & Count?z-v Plannlnq Costraventlons Land Opposite 2 Goldsmlth Drive, Rayleigh 193 Chex, Lower Road, Hockley 222 Lark Hill Stables, Lark Hill Avenue, Canewdon 233 176 London Road, Rayleigh 234 Land West of Willow Drive/Eastcheap, Downhall Park Way, Raylexgh 238 Land East of New Row, East End, Paglesham 257 Willow Pond Farm (Hockley Downs Stables), Lower Road, Hockley 396 Cracknells Farm, Long Lane, Hullbridye 397 Flemmings Farm, Flemmings Farm Road, Rochford 398 Havengore Close, Great Wakerlny 687 Transportation Multi-Purpose Transport Ticket (Transmo) 4,370 Membership of Transportation Committee 10 Essex Transport Forum 1995 17,35,121 South East Essex Transportation Strategy (SEETS) 372 Campaign for Better BUS Servrces 367,563,606 Traffic Management - Rawreth Lane, Rayleigh 612,699 Transportation Strategy - The Way Forward 615,699,706 Proposed Essex County Council Social Services District Transport Co-Ordination Pro3ect 672 B1013 Access to Southend (Northern Section) Traffic Orders: Informal Consultation 674 Urqent Works Notices The Spa Rooms, Hockley 644 Vandalism Members Item of Business submitted by the Labour Group 588
Vision Statements Rochford Town Centre 83 Hockley Town Centre 163 Hullbridge 301 Great Wakerlng 420 Wallasea Island Tidal Defences - Environmental Assessment 168
Weekly w Referrals Market Square, West Street, Rochford 258 Land Opposite Junction Station Road/Spa Road, Hockley 258 51 West Street, Rochford 394
WrIteOffs Community Charge, Council Tax and NNDR 7,203 Youth Initiatives - Major Policy Objectives 11,35 Youth Initiatives - Youth Services 181 Youth Initlatlves - Children's Play 182 Youth Inltlatives Seminar 183 ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL MINUTES
1995
October (Part 1) ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL
0 Binutes of the Health & Housine Services Committee
At a Meeting held on 3rd October 1995 present Councillors Mrs S J Lemon (Chairman), R.A Amner, D E. Barnes. P A Beckers, Mrs. V.E. Clark, D.F. Flack, E.L. Francis, Mrs. J.H. Giles, H.J. Handford, Mrs. J. Helson, Mrs. M. Hunable, Mrs. P.K.V. Pease, R.A. Pearson, 'C A Powell, Mrs W H Stevenson and D.J Sutton.
Apoloaies, Councillors C I. Black, Hrs E.H. Hart and Mrs. A R Hutchings
Visiting, Councillors R E Vingoe and P F A. Webster
517 MINUTES
Resolved that the Minutes of the Meeting of 4th July 1995 be approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman subject to the resolution under Minute 389 being amended to refer to the Sunday Trading Act 1994 instead of the Shops Act 1950 0 518 MONITORING OF PERFOEZMANCE- KEEXINGS OF 31ST JANUARY and 3DTH NAY 1995
The Committee were satisfied that all necessary action had been taken. Under Minute 280/95: Rayleigh Weir Improvement Scheme, Members were reminded by the Chairman of the Transportation Committee that this matter had been referred thereto Minutes 213/93 (CEHO) and 286/95 (CUM) were carried forward.
519. RECYCLING PANEL
The Committee considered the appended Minutes of the Meeting held on 20th September 1995 containing the following recommendations.
RECOMMENDED (1) That the terms of reference of the Recycling Panel be expanded to include all aspects of recyclng and waste disposal (Minute 12, Terms of Reference)
(2) That this Committee endorse'- e (i) the principles of the County Council's Integrated Waste Management Strategy as set cut in the Minutes of the Recycling Panel
(ii) the phasing of Rochford, within Group C, as the second priority for implementation between 1997 - 2003,
(iii) the proposed range of disposal options for Group C, South Essex (including Rochford) to include composting, recycling and small scale incineration and landfill
(3) That the Officers be authorised to negotiate with a suitable contractor, and report back to a future Meeting of the Panel upon the introduction of a joint kerbside collection and "bring" recycling scheme including, through a phased programme to be agreed, waste paper, materials, cans, plastics and glass, on terms and conditions outlined below, at no cost to the Council, and subject to contract. 0 % c 19b1134 Cpuncil would be taken up by staff and it was agreed that this matter should be dealt with in conjunction with the results of the public consultation
SXSlXiSS (DD, CW
Minute 586 Members' Seminar
The Leader of the Liberal Group nominated Councillors H.J. Handford, N Harris, Mrs. J Helson and T A Powell for the Working Party to develop the Community Focus.
Planning Services 26th October 1995 596 -601 Health & Housine Services 0 (i) the introduction of a complementary "bring" system for rural areas at a ratio of 1 1000 of population, or as appropriate in smaller communities e g Rawreth/Paglesham, etc,
(ii) to be responsible for the active promotion of Council's recycling initiatives in schools, communities, etc;
(iii) to continue to explore best practices and markets in order to ensure that Rochford District receives best advice and a reasonable and fair level of service and remuneration at all times,
(iv) that the Level of service shall be subject to annual review of performance against agreed performance targets,
C-J) that the successful contractor be awarded a 5 year contract (with appropriate guarantees on either side).
(4) That subject thereto, a report be made to the Health & 0 Housing Services Committee recommending a contractor to be appointed as the Council‘s Recycling Agent, for 8. term of 5 years, subject to annual review and satisfactory performance in achieving the Council's recycling target of 25% of domestic refuse by September 1997
(5) That the Council's Recycling Plan be amended to reflect the new strategy and that the Department of the Environment and Essex County Council be advFsed accordingly
(6) That the introduction of a green waste cornposting scheme be supported in principle.
(7) That the Officers discuss further with both Essex County Council and Southend Borough Council the location of a suitable site within the area of either of the Authorities, in support of the County Council's draft Waste Management Strategy
(8) That in the meantime the Officers be authorised to Ciphre , without commitment, the proposed scheme within the Rochford District and report to a future Meeting of the Recycling Panel.
(9) That the Council continue to provide home composting facilities in conJunction with the County Council and review further the uptake and effectiveness clver the next 12 months (Minute 14 waste Management and Recycling) (1346)(DD,ACE)
520 NBU HEALTH AUTHORITIES
The Committee considered the appended report of the Chief Environmental Health Officer commenting on a consultation document about changes to local health authorities which they endorsed.
REmED That the Council's response be as set out Fn the report. (26609) (CEHO)
NOTE The Chief Executive exercised his authority under Standing Order 18 to enable the deadline for return of comments to be met .I .
Health & Housinp. Services
521 CHARGES FORHEALTHAND SAFETYFACTUAL STATBtENTS
The Chief Environmental Health Officer reported that Section 28(9) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 allowed Officers to give factual statements to injured parties who were likely to be pursuing civil proceedings arising out of health and safety incidents, 8s a separate process from any action the Officer might take under the Act. bTlberS noted that other local authorities charged for this service as did the Health and Safety Executive and that costs incurred by the person requesting the statement were recoverable in any civil action they subsequently took
REC- That fees be charged for factual statements issued under Section 28(9) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 as follows.-
Excluding VAT - f60 00 Including VAT - f70.50
Plus the cost of reproducing photographs as necessary. (646) (CEHO,DF) 0 522 FOOD SAFETI (GENERAL !?OOD HYGIENE) REGULATIONS 1995
The Committee considered the report of the Chief Envirowental Health Officer which explained the main provisions of these new Regulations.
RECOHHENDED That, if necessary, a further report be made in due course on the manpower implications of enforcement of these Regulations. (720) (CEHO)
523 SINGLE HONELESS ACCMIHODATION PRDJECT IN ESSEX (SHAPE) (Minute 109/94)
Members were reminded that SHAPE provided and managed shared housing for YOU%? single persons who were unable to live in their parental homes and were usually quite vulnerable The Council did not own housing suitable for their needs and in order to meet this shortcoming in housing provision for the District the Committee had supported the request for Housing Corporation funds made jointly by SHAPE and Springboard Housing 0 Association The Chief Housing Manager reported that the Housing Corporation had since approved a grant for f120,OOO to provide six bed-spaces in two three- bedroom houses, that final expenditure including the cost of conversion had amounted to f141,OOO and that Springboard, as owners of the properties, had raised a mortgage to cover the shortfall on condition that SHAPE, as Managers, met the repayments Members noted that if all the costs incurred were to be borne in full by the tenants the charges would need to be significantly higher than originally proposed, and the level "85 considered to be unaffordable The Chief Housing Manager answered questions regarding the financing arrangements and the prospective tenants The Committee consIdered that the Council should make an annual contribution of f2,500 to SHAPE to reduce the charges made to the clients subject to a representative of the Council being appointed to the local Steering Committee
RCECXMENDED (1) That an annual grant of f2,500 be made to SHAPE for a period of 25 years Health & Housine Services
(2) That Councillor P.J Stanton be appointed to the SHAPE Steering Committee for Rochford. (2122) (CBH,DF,CE)
NOTE The Chief Executive exercised his authority under Standing Order 18 to enable the Kember nominee to attend the first meeting of the local steering committee
524. lL!WTY PROPERTY STRATEGY
Members had before them the appended report of the Chief Housing Manager on a strategy for making best use of housing within the District. They considered alternative means of managing social housing by referenceto the practice in other authorities but endorsed Lhis Council's existing practices as being satisfactory. The Policy objective to visit all applicants for housing which had been introduced by the Sheltered Housing Working Party was reaffirmed
Turning to the private sect& the Committee accepted that the Council should enter into an arrangement with Estuary Housing Association whereby 0 privately owned empty housing could be let and managed on the Council's behalf and saw five years as being an appropriate term Members concurred with the Chief Housing Manager's reservations about a rental deposit scheme
RE-ED (1) That Members endorse current practices and policies relating to the control of empty Council dwellings
P (2) That the strategy for the re-use of privately owned empty housing be adopted and Estuary Housing Association be asked to manage the property.
(3) That the Housing Hanager (CH2) be the designated Officer for Empty Property Initiatives
(4) That no action be taken for the time being on rental deposits. (2122) (CBM) 525 PROGRAMMEFOR THE UPGRADING OF SHELTERED HOUSING BEDSITTERS 1994/95: l THE IAVERS. HOCKLEY ROAD, RAYLEIGH (Minute 622/90)
The Director of Development reminded Members of the programme agreed in 1990 for the upgrading of sheltered housing bedsitters and that Goodmans, Frances Cottee Lodge and Pembroke House were complete, the final phase of Chignal House was in progress and Romney House was at tender preparation stage
Subject to consultation with the tenants, it was intended to proceed with the conversion of The Iavers, Hockley Road, Rayleigh which would Include the construction of a lift shaft and installation of a lift together with minor revisions to some window openings and would require approval under the Deemed Consent procedure
RECOMMENDEDThat pursuant to Paragraph 3 of the Town and Country Planning General Regulations 1992, permission be sought for the construction of a lift shaft and Installation of a lift tocrether with minor rev&tons to some window openings at The Lavers, Hockley Road, Rayleigh. (5260) (DD,CE) 0 flealth h Housing services l 526 AUTHORIn TO ISSUE NOTICE OF SEEKING POSSESSION (Minute 223/88) The Chief Housing Manager reported on the need to revise the list of Officers authorised to sign Notice of Seeking Possession.
RECOHHENDED That the following Officers be authorised to sign Notices of Seeking Possession in accordance with Council policy and legislative requirements.
David Leonard Roger Ellis Chief Housing Manager Alex James Coulson Housing Manager Clive George Burton Senior Housing Management Officer (196) (CHM,CE)
527. REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FRC+I SHEFFIELD CITY COUNCIL lKinute 381/951
The Chief Environmental Health Officer reported that Sheffield City Council had been refused leave to appeal to the House of Lords over a 0 recent Housing Act judgement, and that the City Council had expressed its thanks for the offer of help, but the fund to support the costs of the legal action was no longer required It was accordingly
RECC+MENDED That Minute 381/95 be rescinded. (31063) (CEHO,DF)
528.
The Solicitor reported that a building company was seeking an easement to connect a private development to the Council's surface water sewer serving one of its properties in Jubilee Road, Rayleigh The Committee noted that there were no objections and that the firm had agreed to pay the Council's legal costs, and its agent's fees for negotiating the premium for the easement
RF.cOWENDED That the Solicitor completes a. Deed of Grant of Easement connecting a new development on the site of 18 Jubilee Road, Rayleigh, to the Council's surface water sewer serving 16 Jubilee Road, Rayleigh, subject to the Grantee paying the Council's reasonable legal fees and the a fees of its agent (4129) (SOL)
529 ACTION DNDW STANDING ORDW 18 0linute 388/951
The Committee noted that the Chief Executive had exercised his authority under Standing Order 18 to enable a prosecution to be pursued regarding a breach of site licence conditions at a mobile home park (1466)
530 CONTRACTS PROGRESS REPORT (Minute 382/95)
The Committee noted the report of the Director of Development/ Property Services Manager on the progress of the current contracts. A Member suggested that the progress should be shown as at a specified date
531 OUARTERLY PERFoRHANcE REPORTS (1ST APRIL - 3DTH JDNE 19951 JHinute 289/951
The Committee noted the Quarterly Performance Reports for this service Committee. (1600) Health h Housiw Services
532 HINOR WORKS ASSISTANCE GRANTS (Hinute 236/941
The Chief Environmental Health Officer reminded Members that under the terms of the Minor Works Assistance Grants scheme administered by Springboard Housing Association Home Improvement Service, that agency received a fee of 10% of the cost of the works, paid through the grant.
Springboard had requested that a minimum agency fee of f50 be agreed since experience had shown that some grants could be for relatively small sums, Yet there was little difference in the amount of Agency time and effort involved in a small grant compared to one at maximum. The budget for this scheme in the present financial year would remain unchanged
RECON?iFNDED That a f50 minimum agency fee for the administration of the Minor Works Assistance Grants scheme be agreed. (191) (CBHO)
533. PUBLIC ENTERTAINHENT LICENSING
&Q&. Councillor R.A Pearson declared a non-pecuniary interest by virtue of holding a Public Entertainment Licence but remained in the Meeting and took part in the discussions and voting thereon.
The Chief Environmental Health Officer reported on the prior advertisement and application requirements of the Council's General Regulations for Public Entertainment Licensing and on the circumstances which had led the Chief Executive, after consulting the Chairman of the Council and Chairman of the Health & Housing Services Committee, to authorise action under Standing Order 18 to waive thrs requirement in order that an application could be determined
Arising out of the foregoing the Committee considered the suggestion of the Chief Environmental Health Officer that he should be given delegated authority to deal with applicants in such circumstances Members were mindful however that they had asked for the Scheme of Delegations to be reviewed by the new Chief Executive and it was accordingly
REcomED That action on this matter be deferred pending that review (4500) (CE)
534 NOBILE HOMES WORKING PARTY
Members had b&fore them the appended Minutes of the Heeting held on 27th September 1995 and it was moved from the Chair and
Resolved that the terms of reference of the Mobile Homes Working Party be expanded to enable them to meet with site licence holders in an endeavour to resolve outstanding problems
-ED That considaratxan of the remaining recommendations be deferred (CEXO,CE)
535 GOVERNHENT WHITE PAPW 'OUR FDTDRE HONES" (Hinute 483/951
Members were mindful that when this matter had cane before the Council in September it had been referred back to this Committee for determination in the light of the comments submitted by the Leader of the Labour Group which he amplifwd by reference to statistics produced by Shelter on the c. level of social housing stock Health 6 Housing Services
The committee accepted the comments which had been submitted as complementing the report of the Management Team subject to the reference to establishing the same rights of tenure being amended so as to refer to "One secure form of long term social tenancy" Members considered that Government policy on social housing had been detrimental to those in need of accommodation. because on the one hand it had eroded the ability of the local authority to provide social housing and on the other hand it had depleted the existing housing stock through the introduction of the Right to Buy. They expressed concern that the White Paper gave no indication other than that those policies would continue, which a Member referred to as privatisation by the back door
Whilst not opposed in principle to the Right to Buy they considered that the current rules were inappropriate and should be amended. They were *LSO opposed to the method of sale of Housing Association properties. In that connection the Committee accepted a proposition that the Council should provide a counselling service for tenants wishing to exercise the Right to Buy so as to ensure they were fully aware of the costs and responsibilities involved If existing tenants had a Right to Buy then others should have a right to social housing and that could not be achieved by depleting the existing stock faster than it was being replaced
The provision of social hou.sLng was seen as a vital element in the achievement of social stability and where the local authority had fulfilled that role competently, as Rochford had done consistently, then it should be permitted to continue One simple method of reviving the housing market would be to allow the funds available from Right to Buy sales to be used for new build Another involved the cessation of MIRAS and the re-distribution of the additional tax revenue to fund social housing.
In summary the Committee accepted that it should not be the function of Central Government to be involved so deeply in the management of Council housing c0u*ci1s, especially those with relatively small stocks of council housing, should be free to determine whether or not dwellings should be sold to tenants and should be free to spend capital receipts from sales without fetter If Councils performed poorly the District Auditor and the Audit Commission had adequate scope to deal with problems but well managed Councils should be encouraged to determine their own futures. Similarly public funds should be given only to organisations that met standards of good practice
Resolved that the comments on the White Paper "Our Future Homes" as contained in the Management Team report and the supplementary submission by the Labour Group and amplified above be endorsed and that the Department of the Environment be advised accordingly
P. RECC+lMENDED That a counselling service be introduced for tenants wishing to exercise the Right to Buy (225) (cm)
,, l ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL
HEALTH & HOUSING SERVICES COMMITTEE - 3RD OCTOBER 1995
NINLITES OF THE RECYCLING PANEL
At a Meeting held on 20th SeDtember 1995
Present Councillors P A Beckers, S. Cumberland, Mrs. M A. Hunnable, G E Lee, Mrs S J Lemon and R.A Pearson.
Auoloaies Councillors G Fox and A.L. Stevart
10 APPOINTKENT OF CIIAIRMAN
Resolved That Councillor S Cumberland be appointed Chairman of the Panel for the remainder of the municipal year. l l1 HINUTES The Minutes of the Meeting held on 7th November 1994 were agreed as a correct record
12 TERNS OF REFERENCE
The Panel noted their Terms of Reference and accepted the suggestion of the Assistant Chief Executive that they should be expanded to include all aspects of recycling and waste disposal
RECONNENDBD That the terms of reference of the Recycling Panel be expanded to include all aspects of recycling and waste disposal
13 IiUIBEBs' INTERESTS
Counclllors G E Lee and R A Pearson declared a non-pecuniary interest in Waste Management and Recycling by virtue of representing areas that contained refuse tips.
014 WASTE KANAGEHENTAND RECYCLING
+ Hembers had before them the appended report of the Assistant Chief Executive on an integrated waste management strategy for Essex and welcomed David Tuthill, County Waste Management and Special Projects Officer who made a presentation to the Panel regardng the strategy and answered Members' questions thereon
The strategy document identified
(1) the limited availability and need to prolong the use of existing landfill throughout Essex;
(ii) the need to reduce "imported" London waste,
(iii) a phased programme of strategy implementation up to the year 2015 based upon area priorities - (a) Group A - First Priority (1995 - 2001)
North Essex (Braintree, Colchester, Kaldon, Tendring, Uttlesford)
(b) Group B - Third Priority (1999 - 2005)
West and Hid Essex (Brentwood, Chelmsford, Epping, Harlow)
(c) Group C - Second Priority (1997 - 2003)
Basildon, Castle Point, Rachford, Southend, Thurrock
(iv) a combination of options to meet the projected particular circumstances of each area Group, comprising composting, recycling, incineration (to energy), and landfill.
On recycling, the Assistant Chief Executive introduced new opportunities to provide a kerbside recycling collection service, at no cost to the Authority, based upon the current high value of waste paper He reported in confidence upon three offers received to provide the service, and Panel Members expressed a preference for B scheme which would include all suitable recyclable materials, commencing with paper and extending to include other items over an agreed period.
The Assistant Chief Executive also reported upon an initial approach received to provide a green waste composting service both to Rochford and Southend
The Panel welcomed the proposals III principle as each of the schemes was seen as supporting the County Waste Management Strategy, both recycling and composting being an integral part of the proposals for Group C, South Essex (which includes Rochford)
RBGOHEIENDED (1) That the Health & Houslng Services Committee be asked to endorse -
(i) the principles of the county Council's Integrated Waste Management Strategy as set out above
- (ii) the phasing of Rochford, within Group C, as the second priority for implementation between 1997 - 2003,
(lli) the proposed range of disposal options for Group C, South Essex (including Rochford) to include cornposting, recycling and small scale incineration and landfill
(2) That the officers be authorised to negotuate, with a suitable contractor, and report back to a future meeting of the Panel upon the introduction of a joint kerbside collection and "bring" recycling scheme including, through a phased programme to be agreed, waste paper, materials, CaJlS, plastxs and glass, on terms and conditions outlined below, at no cost to the Council, and subject to contract
(i) the introduction of a complementary "bring" system for rural aress at a ratio of 1 1000 of population, or as appropriate in smaller communities e g Rawreth/Paglesham, etc, 0 (ii) to be responsible for the active promotion of Council's recycling initiatives in schools, communities, etc, ^ (iii) to continue to explore best practices and markets in order to ensurethat Rochford District receives best advice and a l reasonable and fair level of service and remuneration at all times,
(iv) that the level of service shall be subject to annual review of performance against agreed performance targets;
(v) that the successful contractor be awarded a 5 year contract (with appropriate guarantees on either side).
(3) That subject thereto, a report be made to the Health h Housing Services Committee, reconmending a contractor to be appointed as the Council's Recycling Agent, for 8 term of 5 years, subject to annual review and satisfactory performance in achieving the Council's recycling target of 25% of domestic refuse by September 1997
(4) That the Council's Recycling Plan be amended to reflect the new strategy and that the Department of the Environment and Essex County Council be advised accordingly-
(5) That the introduction of a grew waste composting scheme be supported UI principle
(6) That the Officers discuss further with both Essex County Council and Southend Borough Council the location of a suitable site within the area of either of the Authorities, in support of the County Council's draft Waste Management Strategy
(7) That, in the meantime the Officers be authorised to explore, without commitment, the proposed scheme within the Rochford District and report to a future meeting of the Recycling Panel.
(8) That the Council continue to provide home composting facilities 1n conjunction with the County Council and review further the uptake and effectxveness over the next 12 months (1346)(DD,ACE)
RECYCLE!4INS/PAN3 AGENDA ITEM z l ROCHFDRD DISTRICT COUNCIL
HEALTH h HOUSING SERVICES COMlWl-i"EE - 3RD OCTOBER 1995
REPORT OF THE CHIEF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICER
NEW HEALTH AUTHORITIES
Backvround
The National Health Service Executive has asked the Council to comment on proposals for the creation of a new South Essex Health Authority from 1st April 1996
The Chief Executive circulated relevant extracts from the consultation document to all Members on 19th July 1995
Resuonsibilities of the Prooosed New Authorities
Major changes are taking place in health care provision, with increasing emphasis on services being provided through primary care i.e in local doctors' practices It is no longer effective to have health care purchasing divided as it is at present between District Health Authorities (DHA) for hospital and community services, and Family Health Services Authorities (FHSA) for general practitioner, pharmacy, dental and similar services
The Health Authorities Act 1995 requires the creation of a single health authority at local level, to take on both the role of existing authorities and some of the functions of the Regional Health Authorities.
The new health authority will develop and implement local health strategies working with GP's, NHS Trusts and other agencies and consulting locally It should be well placed to develop a coherent view of the full range of health needs of the local population and identify the most appropriate ways of meeting those needs.
The new authority will continue the existing consultative arrangements 0 with doctors, dentists and other health professionals as well as with Comity Health Councils (CHC). The consultative document suggests that the boundaries of CHC's may be reviewed, if appropriate
Several options are considered in the consultation document
(a) en all Essex Authority this is regarded as too large.
(b) two health authorities - the preferred option, with the same boundaries as the present District Health Authorities. For South Essex this would comprise the Districts of Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock.
(c) three authorities, the third covering solely the new unitary Southend-on-Sea - a small health authority serving only Southend-on-Sea is not considered viable 0 SuPeested Resuonse Rochford District Council welcomes the opportunity to comment on the l proposals for the creation of two new Health Authorities in Essex from 1st April 1996 It is concerned to ensure that local people have access to the best possible health care
1. The Council supports the proposal to form the authority on the present boundaries of the South Essex District Health Authority This will build on the work which has been carried out since the creation of that authority ln 1993 and avoid unnecessary disruption through further boundary changes
2 The Council is very concerned that the new authority should receive equitable funding, which properly reflects the health needs of the District
3. The new authority should develop effective ways of consulting with the public, local interest groups and local authorities.
4 The new authority should be accessible to local people and provide services sensitive to local needs
5. Local authorities should be represented on the board of the new authority
Subject to the Committee's acceptance of the recommended response the Chief Executive will exercise his authority under Standing Order 18 to meet the deadline of 17th October for return of comments pEC@iNENDED That the Council's response be as set out above. (26609) (CEm
Backvround Papers Consultation Document "The Boundaries of the New Health Authorities within the North Themes Region" ('26691)(CEHO) DISTRICT COUNCIL
G SERVICES CQMBI'PFEE 3RD OCTOBER 1995
EMP'Q! PROPERTY
!SEJi'mT OF TmCCHI'&? HOUSING MANAGER
Declulng prospects of bulldug new socx~l housing and the shrlnklng supply of vacancies in the Council's own stock have become dally facts of life in this dlstrlct Whilst the Council should do everything in Its power to maxlnnse the suppl> of houslng for I-ent from tLadltlor,al sources. the demands from those wlthout a decent home contuxe The oblect of ch1.s report IS to analyse not only how the Council can make best use of all houslng wlthln the dlstllcL. but also how It can take .+-x&age cf the lull x, the property market to the benefit of those wlthout homes
A complete strategy must embrace all houslng but for clarity this report 1s dlvlded Into three main sections.
0 l. Social housrng 2 Private houslng 3 Rental Deposits
1 Socal Housmq
Control and effective use of Council housing has been an oblectlve of this Council since the early 1980's The standards the Council has set itself are r1gourous Since the late 1980's public bodies such as the Audit Commlsslon and professIona organlsatlons such as the Chartered Institute of Housing (C.1.o H ) have publlshed gudance on various aspects of housing management. Despite the Council's relatively good record on use of Its stock there 1s no room for complacency. The Chief Houslng Manager makes no apology Eor reprlntlng here the C I o H guidance on control of vacant propertIes and the Council's current practice
A KEYS To CUTTING RELET TIMES ICIoH) l ;ropertyDesIgnatemanagement. staff to be responsible for the complete process of empty
2 Establish tune targets for each stage in the relet process
3. Monitor performance
COMMENT The Council has designated staff II-, both the Housing and Property Services Departments The Council deals on average with 6 vacancies per week and the establishment ot monItored target tunes for each process would be over bureaucratic. HOWeVer, outturn performance 1s keenly monitored wth a Performance Indicator of 4 weeks Currently voids are relet ln 2 90 weeks Methods of reduclng this txne are dlscussed below
B. ENDING THE PREVIOUS TENANCY (CIoH)
1 Leaflets for outgoIng tenants and executors on tenancy termu,atlon procedure and responslbllltles, lncludlng the period of notice requred 0 2 Inltlal property lnspectlon before tenant vacates 3. Agreement with tenant or executor on the condltlon the property "111 be left I", rubbish clearance and the time for keys to be handed I".
COmiEwI : The single most common reason for a vacancy occurring 1s the death of an elderly tenant who was llvlng alone. Nationally only one authority achieved slgnlflcantly lower relet perlads than the Council I" that sole example the tenant's next of kin are charged 4 weeks rent I" lie" of termlnatlo". As all HousIng Benefits cease on the death of a tenant the bill sent to those who died I" sheltered housing would be I" the reglo" of f250 - f300 The benefit 1s that new tenancies "111 commence often with no 'vacancy' period The Council undertakes all actlons listed above a&,! where the outgoIng tenant 1s fully fit. Termlnatlons due to death or transfer to hospital or old people's homes are give" at a week's notice or less.
C. ALLOCATIOEIS (C I -.I1 )
1 Regular review of the waltrng list
2. M1"lmls.s refusals of offers by
a) ensuring records are up to date. b) accurate recording of applicants' wishes c) accompanied vIewIng of vacant unrts d) monltorlng refusals e) tackling the problems of hard-to-let houslng
COMMENT: The Council undertakes 1, 2a. 2b and 2d. With regard to 2c, this measure was ldentlfled by the Sheltered HousIng Working Party and ~111 be xitroduced when staffing resources allow The Council has ldentlfled the modernlsatlon of hard-to-let bedslts as Its pr~&%ry polzcy oblectlve. The Council has no policy on the number of refusals that can be made but does give advice on the llkelxhood of assistance being give" I" a particular area for a particular house type. Nonltorlng the reasons for refusal 1s felt to be more effectrve than applying pressure on applicants to accept a particular dwelling they may not want.
D REPAIRS (C I o.H.)
1. Early property lnspectlon ideally before the tenant vacates.
2. Fast response void repair terms with penalty clauses for farlure to meet targets
3. Decoration allowances for new tenants.
COMMENT- All the above are undertaken
E. SECURITY (C.1.o.H 1
1 Measures should be taken to protect empty property
2 Squatters and unauthorised occupants to be dealt with speedily.
COMMENT. These are not issues I" Rochford
Members' views are sought on the comments made and particularly
1. Are you satlsfled with the control measures. 2. Should the Council Insist on:
a) A full four weeks notice in all cases. b) Tenants executors to clear all ruhblsh and clean the property.
3. Accompanied visits to all offers of tenancy.
4. Imposition of a restriction on the number of offers made to any lndlvxdual.
2. Private sector
The acqursltlon of housing and Its ownership have changed in the last decade House values are deflating and gazumplng 1s a distant memory. This sltuatlon 1s not entirely detrlmental. Houses are becoming more affordable t3 first time purchasers a113 generally people are treating their houses less as investments and mire as homes. As there are less transactions III the housing market and purchasers can be more chcosey, It 1s lnevltable that some homes cannot be sold and owners are obliged to seek other solutions when for example, their employment relocates
0 In September 1995 the Chief Houslng Manager asked the Revenue Manager to undertake from Council Tax records an analysis of the vacant propertIes in the district. There were 986 empty dwellings (3.14% of the total 31,348.) This figure 1s lower than the average for England where III 1993 of 20,068,CiOO properties (4.2%) - 845,000 were vacant. The analysis 1s as follows:
Class A Ewelllngs empty but undergang repair 112 Class B Dwellings empty for less than 6 months owned by Charity class c Dwellings empty unoccupied for less than 6 months 195 A. Class II PropertIes left empty because of prison detentlon. 0 Class E Care/hospital/homes 47 Class F Deceased 89 Class G Prohlblted by law 2 Class L Repossessions 55 No Class Dwellings empty for mare than 6 months at 0 50% Council Tax charge (Includes 2nd homes) TOTAL
The Chief Housing Manager has already held dlscusslons with the Housing Corporation on how to make best "se of this sltuatlon. Experience from other areas lndlcates that 1x1 the first instance 'target' propertles should meet the following crlterla.
1. Dwelling lype: The Council has sufflclent resources to help the elderly and therefore only seeks family szze dwellings.
2 AffordabIlIty: Rents must be wlthln housing benefit ranges.
3 Length of Tenure: Periods of less than five years are not suitable The prospective tenants should be given a perwd of stablllty, espeaally for chxldreo's education. 4 Rehousing Responsibility: At the end of the lease some tenants ~111 be offered extensions, some ~111 find alternative housing in the same sector but there ~111 be some who ~111 require Council/Housing Assoclatlon property The number assisted must therefore be restrIcted by the future avallablllty of socx.1 housing
The Houslng Corporation has a scheme whereby It ~111 fund repairs to empty property If the owner ~111 agree to the property being re-let for a term of years The property 1s then managed by a Houslng Assoclatlon and the Counal IS given full nomlnatlon rights
At the suggestIon of the HousIng Corporation dlscusslons have been held with Estuary Houslng Assoclatlon and provlslonal agreements made wlthln the terms aforementioned Estuary are wllllng to tlnd up to 10 vacant 3 bedroom properties a year for renovation/repair The houses ~11 be relet to Council nominees for a mlnxnum period of 5 years. Draft contracts have been seen by the Sollcitcr whs has given general suppxt. MllKJL dllrlhlrllLb would be made but these are not slgnlflcant. The net result ~111 provide better housing than bed & breakfast hotels at a far cheaper cost to the public purse
The Houslng Manager, Alex Coulson, ~111 be given direct responslblllty for the management of this pro]ect.
3 &nt+J Deposits:
A number of Councils now act as guarantors for rents In the private sector and provide low income households with loans to cover rental deposits Such schemes can help families Into private sector letting6 but the Chief Housing Manager has reservations about this scheme.
a) Some private landlords can provide accommodation below the required fltnass standards.
b) Houslng Benefit levels are due to change In the New Year and private sector rents are bound to be affected
c) It would be prudent to measure the effectiveness of the Empty Property Strategy above, before implementing other schemes
RECOMMENDED: (1) That Members endorse current practices and polxies relating to the control of empty Council dwellings.
(2) That the strategy for the xx-use of privately owned empty houslng be adopted and Estuary Housing Association be asked to manage the property.
(3) That the Housing Manager (CH2) be the designated officer for Empty Property Initlatlves
(4) That no action be taken for the time being on rental deposits
Backaround Pawrs. Houslng Strategies - D.o E. (CHM) Letter/Draft Contracts Estuary HousIng Assoc. (CHM) AGENDA ITEH 21 0 ROCHFORII DISTRICT COUNCIL HEALTH AND HOUSING SERVICES COMMITTEE - 3RD OCTOBER 1995
MINUTES OF THE HOBILE HONES WORKING PARTY
At a Meetiw held on 27th Satember 1995
present. Councillors D F. Flack, Mrs S.J. Lemon, C R Horgan, Mrs P.M V Pease, Mrs W.H Stevenson, and Mrs L Walker
3 APPOI-OFCHAIRHAN
Resolved that Councillor D.F. Flack be appointed Chairman of the Working Party for the remainder of the municipal year.
4 MINUTES
The Minutes of the Meeting held on 3rd October 1994 were agreed as a correct record. . 0 5 TERMS OF REFERENCE
The Working Party noted their terms of reference
6 CARAVAN SITE LICENCE CONDITIONS
As requested at the previous Heeting the Chief Environmental Health Officer reported on the detailed surveys which had been carried out at five residential parks to assess the problem of non-complying porches and other strlxtures. That identified a total of 127, 58 at The Dome, 29 at Hockley Mobile Homes, 18 at Shangri-La West and 22 at The Crouch Caravan Park against which the Council could take enforcement action under the new Model Standards as incorporated into the site licence conditions by virtue of their being a potential fire hazard Most of these structures were porches but many served also as storage areas and/or housed electrical equipment such as washing machines and fridge/freezers One or two posed particular hazards to the occupants because they formed past of an area used for sleeping. The information and detailed site plans had been passed to the Fire Authority for their consideration and they had responded with detailed advice which was appended
Members were advised that if the Council were to consider any variation of the present conditions relating to fire safety, then it must have regard to the Fire Authority's comments On that basis there were 40 structures which could be allowed to remain with a variation of conditions es advised by the Fire Authority, but 87 which would continue to be in contravention If on the other hand the Council considered it impractical to enforce variations then the Fire Authority would support the enforcement of the existing licence conditions
Continuing the Chief Environmental Health Officer said there were a number of other factors that needed to be borne in mind also, namely
- that a number of offending structures had been installed within the 5 year implementation period of the new Model Standards
- that car parking at Shangri-La West was provided in double spaces 0 contrary to the Fire Authority's recommendation that mobile homes needed two satisfactory escape routes opening into separate fire separation zones and not all met this criterion. l - that no storage or electrical appliances could be permitted in any remaining extension
The Working Party were advised that those considerations raised very real problems of monitoring and enforcement In giving guidance to the Council on possible licence conditions which varied from the Model,Standards the Fire Authority were seeking assurances that the compensatory fire safety measures would be implemented and maintained The situation "as further complicated by the need to determine in each individual case whether a mobile home fell within the legal definition of a caravan, which "as a relevant consideration in both caravan site licensing and planning law So far as the latter aspecr "as concerned caravans had no General Development Or&r rights and therefore all additions/extensions were subject to the need for planning pe.rmission
The Chief Environmental Health Officer then turned to the request to consider whether assistance could be offered to those mobile home owners affected in meeting the costs involved He reminded Members that Management Team had reported recently on a Government White Paper "Our Future Homes" which carried provision for a new home repair grant scheme which it was understood would cover repairs and possibly improvements to meet site licence conditions although probably not the demolition of an offending structure. In the meantime and having regard to the provisions of Section 137 of the Local Government Act 1972 the Director of Finance had suggested a simple scheme comprising a scale of grants for various works whereby the Council could assist mobile home dwellers, a rough estimate of the cost being f26,OOO It had to be borne in mind that the works might require planning permission which would add to the cost involved although if the site operators were prepared to make a composite application that would lessen the individual burden If such a scheme were to be agreed the simplest arrangement would be for it to be administered by the Springboard Housing Association under their Home Improvement Service Agency for whxh fees would be payable by the Council
Finally the Chief Environmental Health Officer reminded Members that there "as a long history to the resolution of contraventions of the caravan site licence conditions, that the current problems emanated from the intro- l duction of new Model Standards and that the situation needed to be resolved He had set out a number of options for their consideration but LIS they would appreciate none of them. would be easy He had already reported that they would need to have regard to the guidance of the Fire Authority who had strongly supported the Council in enforcement of fire safety on caravan sites and it would be his professional advice that they should act in accordance with that guidance. The need to achieve compliance with the new Model Standards "as vital having regard to the better understanding of the fire hazards involved and the fact that unlike traditional houses mobile homes were extremely flammable. In the case of a house fire there "as time to summon help and fight the blaze but once a mobile home caught light experience showed that it "as destroyed in a matter of minutes
The Working Party expressed their appreciation of a very thorough report on a most com~lax issue and had a number of oueries which were answered as follo"s - .
(0 that the Tower Caravan Park did not pose a problem b&cause the site --c management had never allowed additions to mobile homes. (ii) that the degree of co-operation varied between site owners but that final responsibility for overcoming contraventions rested with them
(iii) that a distlnction needed to be drawn between the site itself and individual caravans Changes within the terms of the site licence did not require planning permission but a built extension to a caravan did
(iv) that this did not however apply to structures without foundations such as garden sheds
The Working Party were mindful that there was a long-standing programme for achieving compliance with the statutory separation requirement, responsibility for which lay on site owners and that chould be adhered to More recently new Model Standards had been introduced with retrospective effect They were concerned at the impact on the residents of mobile homes, a lot of whom were elderly and on low incomes, if they were required to remove offending structures, many of which formed an integral part of the mobile home and if removed would require additional work to be carried out by way of renovation Furthermore at least one extension involved disabled access and may well have been part-funded by Social Services. Whilst having regard to the Fire Authority's advice that they could either keep the existing licence requirements or vary the conditions, they did not believe that this would achieve an equitable outcome The interim grant scheme proposed would not go very far towards meeting the costs involved and the owner would suffer in terms of amenities enJoyed whilst there would be an adverse effect on the value of the mobile home also They considered the alternative option which had been proposed to allow sites to be expanded to enable homes to be adequately sited but declared themselves resolutely opposed to such a course, which would infringe Green Belt controls
The Chief Environmental Health Officer reminded them that in reaching a decision they should bear in mind that some mobile home dwellers had already carried out remedial works in the belief that such a requirement was to be imposed, that some of the structures had been erected within the period allowed for compliance with the new Model Standards and that the offendine structures comoromised not onlv the safetv of the occuoier but 0 also that ” of neighbouring Lresidents ’ Nevertheless the Working Party considered that they should opt to apply the existing licence requirements only on change of occupier or mobile home, notwithstanding also that this course of action would not be supported by the Fire Authority In arriving at that conclusion they referred to the fact that there was a significant rate of change of occupancy and that it would be essential for the Council to "rite to all site owners and existing residents advising them of the decision. l-hey asked that they be given the opportunity to comment in advance "hen those letters were drafted. They were mindful that the effectiveness of that decision would depend also on the involvement of the site owners and considered it essential that they should be invited to meet individually with the Working Party to enable the need for compliance to be spelt out at which point the opportunity could be taken to progress other outstanding issues of concern Members expressed their satisfaction with the way in which enforcement of site licence conditions was being pursued to the benefit of residents but were mindful of the heavy demand which this placed on staff resources. As regards the grant scheme the Working Party considered that it would be preferable to await the outcome of the 0 Government scheme which would enable them to review the situation It was accordingly RECClIiHENDED (1) That the existing licence requirements as they affect non- compliant porches and additions to caravans be applied only on any change of occupier or mobile home and that no action be taken on 8.n interim grant scheme pending the outcome of the proposed new discretionary home repair grant
(2) That all caravan site licence holders and mobile home residents be advised accordingly
(3) That the terms of reference of the Mobile Homes Working Party be expanded to enable them to meet with site licence holders in an endeavour to resolve outstanding problems. (CEHO) ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL
0 pinutes of the Transportation Committee
At a Meetiw held on 5th October 1995. Present. Councillors D.E Barnes (Chairman), R A Amner, C I Black, D F Flack, Mrs J.M. Giles, Mrs. H L.A Glynn, Mrs J Helson, C R Morgan, R.A Pearson, T A. Powell, P J Stanton, S R. Tellis, R.E Vingoe, Mrs L Walker, D A. Weir and Mrs H A Weir
AuoloEies Councillors S Cumberland, M.J. Handford and V G Hewlett.
Visiting- Councillors Hrs V E Clark and P.F A Webster
536. KINDTES
Resolved that the Hinutes of the Meeting of 22nd June 1995 be approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman
The Committee were updated on matters arising from those Minutes as 0 follows.-
Minute 361: Ravleieh Weir Improvement Scheme
The Director of Development advised Members he would be reporting back to this Committee at the earliest opportunity
tiinute 371 Various Streets. RavleFFh - Prouosed variation to existing Waiting Restrictions
The County Surveyor informed Members that the traffic signs would be erected in early November and the road markings would be completed by the middle of October
pinute 370 Essex Transmo Scheme (Multi-Purwse Transoort Ticket)
The Director of Finance advised Members that the machines had now been installed in all Rochford District Council's Car Parks but due to a few minor software problems were not up and running yet but would be in the 0 very near future
537 MONITORING OF PERFORMANCE - MEETINGS OF STH DECEMBER 1994 AND 25TH MAY 1995
The Committee were satisfied that all necessary action had been taken
538 SIX MONTH REVIEW - HIGHWAY PRDGRAMNE 1995/96 (Minute 266/952
The Committee noted the progress report of the County Surveyor on the implementation of the Maintenance and Locally Determined Programmes for the first six months of the 1995/96 financial year and noted the total allocation to-date and the programme for the outstanding works (933) (CS)
539 BROOK ROAD ON SLIP TO Al27 - PROPOSED PROHIBITION OF DRIVING
The Committee had before them the report of the County Surveyor on the background to a proposal co close the Brook Road slip on to the Al27 which 0 following * formal consultation had attracted a number of objections and having considered their content it was Transuortstion Committee
RECOHHENDED That no further action be taken on the proposed prohibition of traffic from Brook Road onto the Al27 for the time being but that the accident record at the Junction be monitored and a further report be made in the event that the situation deteriorates (933) (GS)
540 FREIGHT HDUSE CAR PARK - PARKING CONTROL (Minute 187/95)
The Committee considered the report of the Director of Finance on the outcome of a survey of unauthorised use of the Freight House Car Park, Rochford which indicated that notwithstanding the appointment of a temporary Patrol Officer to man the access gate before 9.00~~ a long term solution needed to be found to discourage casual parking by mmimters. Following consultation with CIRCA Leisure it wns proposed to achieve thu by bringing the Freight House under the District of Rochford (Off-Street Parking Places) Order to effect full control and restrict use of the car park to permit holders only prior to 9 15am Monday to Saturday with parking being free of charge at all other times
A Member expressed concern that the proposed Saturday Market in Rochford 0 would generate more vans from market traders and that they would wish to park at the Freight House and was advised by the Director of Finance that this would be investigated. A Member also asked that CIRCA Leisure be approached as there were problems regarding the closing of the gates to the car park by their cleaning staff and the Director of Finance advised that he would contact CIRCA Leisure
RECOMMENDEDThat the Freight House Car Park, Rochford be brought under the control of the District of Rochford (Off-Street Parking Places) Order on the terms outlined above (435)(SOL)
541 CLEAN AND SAFE FNWRONHENT (Kinute 364/951
ii) Bus Shelters and Street Tree Maintenance
Further to the decision at the last Meeting that the provision of bus shelters and street tree maintenance be funded from the Environmental Improvement Budget the Director of Development reported that it was proposed to provide two bus shelters in Eastwood Road at an estimated cost of f10,000, the exact positions to be decided when the traffic calming layout had been finalised
A Member expressed concern regarding the maintenance of the trees in Parklands Road and Trinity Road and trees on other smaller estate roads The Director of Development advised that following initial discussions with the Highway Authority a further Meeting was now planned with the County Arboriculturalist ta discuss the County's street tree programmes in the District A report would be presented to the Committee in due course once this Meeting had taken place
Furthermore Members expressed concerned that some trees and hedges on private property obstructs public footways, street lights and traffic lights and asked for clarification as to responsibility for their maintenance. The County Surveyor replied by advising on the procedure used by the County Council in such instances The Committee also enquired about the designs of the bus shelters and the Director of Development advised Members that such designs would be influenced by such factors as the space available and the surroundings. f-7 Q Transuortation Committee
RR-ED That a further report be made on street tree planting and 0 maintenance within the District and that further details on appropriate bus shelter designs be supplied to Members in due course. (933) (DD)
(ii) Footpath/Alleyway Liehting
The Director of Development reported that as requested at the previous Meeting funding for the lighting at Finchfield had now been identified from Trust Funds which would release funds for additional footpath/ alleyway lighting particularly in and around Town Centres. The Committee accepted the following order of priority to be dealt with as funds allowed
High Road/Spring Gardens
Kings Road/Trinity Road
Elm Drive/London Hill (additional light)
Gladstone Gardens/High Road (additional light) 0 Eastern Road/Burrows Way
Members noted that the monies released from Finchfield would be sufficient to fund the first scheme, that all schemes would require approval from the highway authority who would be requested to adopt them on completion and that the four footpath lighting schemes agreed at the previous Meeting in June were currently out to tender
The Director of Finance confirmed that a bid for the remaining projects would he included in the 1996/97 draft budget
RECOHHENDED That the priority for footpath lighting schemes be agreed as set out above (933)(DD)
liii) Parish Street Lighting
NOTE Councillor R E Vingoe declared a non-pecuniary interest by virtue of being a Governor at Plumberow Primary School but remaind in the Meeting and participated in the discussion and voting thereon
The Committee considered the appended report of the Director of Development on the responses received from Parish Councils identifying needy areas for lighting
The Dxector of Development updated Hembers on two further letters received from Rochford and Hullbridge Parish Councils Rochford Parish Council had identified a short section of footpath behind trees in Ashingdon Road estimated to cost fl,OOO, whilst Hullbridge Parish Council had requested lighting in Lower Road in the vicinity of the Dome Caravan Park which again had been estimated at fl,OOO The Director of Development proposed that these two schemes be placed on the list as items 5A and 5B respectively Some Members considered that the lighting outside the Dome Caravan Park warranted higher priority on safety grounds, whilst other Members felt that the list should remain as printed with the two additions as 5A and 5B. The Committee decided that the scheme 5B (Lower Road, Hullbridge) became priority 3 and priority 3 (Old London Road, Rawreth), became priority 5B Transuortation Committee
RECKED That the priority for Parish lighting schemes be as set out below - ADDroximate Cost
1 Junction of Madrid Avenue and Rawreth Lane (Rawreth Parish Council) fl,OOO
This is a rural situation and a small newly formed Parish Council with limited funds.
2 Church Road (Rawreth Parish Council) fl,OOO
This is a rural situation and a small newly formed Parish Council with limfted funds.
3 On Lower Road in the vicinity of the Dome Caravan Park (Hullbridge Parish Council) fl,OOO
4 "Run Comer", Little Wakering. (Barling Parish Council) El,500
This is a rural situation and a small Parish Council with limited funds
5. Footpath at Greensward Lane to Orchard Avenue. (Hockley Parish Council) f10,000
This footpath is well-used by wny school children
5A A short section of footpath behind trees in Ashingdon Road (Rochford Parish Council) fl,OOO
5B Old London Road (Rawreth Parish Council) f1,500
This is a rural situation and a small newly formed Parish Council with limited funds.
6 Cheltenham Road area (Ashingdon Parish Council) f3,OOO
Old Class B lighting provided to these streets is likely to be below existing standards
7. Pedestrian walkways (Great Wakering Parish Council) f6,OOO Survey needed
8. Star Lane to Poynters Lane (Great Wakering Parish Council) f9,OOO New footpath planned (933) K'D)
(iv) SDonsored Schemes
Members were pleased to note that the Council had started to receive approaches from private companies about of sponsoring mymt*l improvements
- TransDortation committee
RRCOiQlENDED That a further report be made following discussions with the companies concerned (933) (DD)
542. @XION UNDER STANDING ORDER 18
The Committee noted that the Chief Executive had exercised his authoricy under Standing Order 18 to draft and submit Rochford's response to a discussion p*e== from the Association of District Councils on concessionary fares for the elderly.
543. lfE?BERS ITEM OF BUSINESS RECEIVED PURSUANT TU STANDING ORDER 26.X
Councillor Mrs L Walker had asked that the Officers investigate the possibility of providing some vider bays in all Council car parks to enable motorists with young children easier access to their cars Another Member said that similar difficulties were experienced by the elderly
It was
0 RR-ED That: a report be made to this Committee on the possibility of introducing wider bays in the Cow&l's car parks for use by motorists with young children end the elderly (933) (DD)
544. GRANGE VILLAGE. RAYLEIGH - TRAFFIC hXNAGMENT IMPLICATIONS QIinute 124/95)
The Committee noted the report of the County Surveyor that because of summer holidays and because of the phased nature of the development traffic patterns were not yet established. Traffic using Hatfield Road was being monitored end a report on the situation would be made to the first Meeting of the Transportation Committee in 1996
A Member asked that the Downhallbndon Road junction also be included within the area being studied and this was agreed.
It was
RFXOMHENDED That a report on the traffic patterns beginning to emerge as a 0 result of the occupancy of the first phase of the Grange Village development, together with an analysis of traffic using Hatfield Road be submitted to the first meeting of the Transportation Committee in 1996 (933) (CS)
545 NRW TAXI BUS SERVICE
The Chief Executive reported that following Members concerns about the withdrawal of bus services from rural areas, informal approaches have been made to the local taxi companies in conjunctIon with the Assistant Director of Community Services, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, to ascertain whether they would be willing to provide such a service
The Committee noted that Alpine Taxis responded with a proposal for a taxi bus service to serve e. circular route between the Dome Caravan Park and Hockley end were asking for a letter of support from this Council to enable them to apply to the Rural Development Commission for a grant and Members welcomed this initiative which if successful would restore a much needed service. 0 Transmvtation Committee
RECJMKEXDED That this Council provides a letter of support to Alpine Taxis Ltd for a taxi bus service to the Dome Caravan Park to enable them to apply to the Rural Development Commission for a grant (897) (CE)
NOTE The Chief Executive exercised his authority under Standing Order 18 to enable the application to be submitted without delay.
546. MR R COSTA
The Chairman advised the Committee that Mr Robin Costa, the Transportation Policy Manager for Essex County Council had suffered a heart attack and it was agreed that this Committee's best wishes be conveyed to him for a speedy rwevery
b4 h
/' ,w ,' ' AGENDA ITEM 12
ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL
POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE - 18TH JULY 1995
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
CMKIJNITY SUPPORT PROJECT (t4inute '286/94)
1 Backvound
Following a" initiative by the Housing Benefit Section to encourage the take up of Income Support, which was reported to Committee in 1994, Council decided to expand upon the process and to appoint an officer on a one year fixed term contract to develop and promote a Community support strategy
Mrs Trudl Newton was appointed on 15th:May 1995 as Community Support Adviser working in the Revenue Division She has embarked on a two month fact finding exercise meetkng wetfare benefit agencies, public and local bodies and voluntary organisations who operate 1" the Rochford District administrative ate* A list of contact organisation 1s shown at Appendix 1 This is by no means comprehensive and,Is expanding on a dally basLs If Members are aware of any support group who they feel ought to be included on the list they might like to contact Urs Newton direct
2 s tr!¶teay
A basic concept of the Community Support Strategy is that it should not duplicate anything which IS being done by other organisations This would be wasteful and might cause friction between the Council and the welfare agenc1e.s and voluntary groups The Council's role would be more of a 'slgnpnst' to the facilities available elsewhere This does not prevent us taking a proactive role in publicising and promoting the avallablllty of help, be that financial or in a supportive capacity
The Community Support Adviser intends to promote the strategy in a variety of ways which wsll hopefully reach the targeted audiences. This includes:-
(i) Talks to clubs and organisations who fall into the target groups and others by request
(ii) Advice by way of a Freephone (0800) Helpline which will be staffed between 8 30 a m - 12 00 noon dally and by a call-back answerphone service at all other times
(iii) Piarket Stalls to promote and ra~.se awareness of help that might be avaIlable
(iv) Information Packs specifically tailored to the needs of the enquirer
(VI PosLer Campalpns to targer groups
(vi) Contact with organisations snd warden schemes keeping a watchful eye on lone elderly residents The full strategy 1s Illustrated on Appendix 2 under the proposed motto "Here to help each other"
3 Timetable
In view of the limited nature of the appointment it is necessary to work to a very strict timetable Ln order to achieve the desired results and this is shown on Appendix 3 Hembers are particularly requested to note the public launch date - 6th September, when the Chairman of the Council, Charman of Health and Houszng and Chairman of Essex County Council's Social Services Committee will jointly host the event Invitations will be extended to representatives of all the agencies and organisations who have agreed to take part in the initiative In this respect Certificates of Unrty are being sent to these groups and already many have been returned endorsing full support of the project Jt will be noted from the timetable that a project evaluation exercise $a11 be carrrzd out; in December in advance of a full report to tt@s Committee in January 1996 I R-ED (1) That ;the I strategy, as set out on Appendix 2 be adopted under the motto "tfere jto,help Bach {ther" / (2) T&t #the umetable, launch and reporting dates be approved 1
(3) Xhat a report as to the future of the project be made to this Committee xn Janllary 1996 (188844) (DF) I r Background Papers. N"T / I 1
l ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL
0 Minutes of the Policv and Resources Committee
At a. Special Meeting held on 10th October 1995 Present. Councillors Mrs J. Helson (Chairman), D E Barnes, P A. Beckers, C I. Black, S Cumberland, T Fawell, D F Flack, H.J. Handford, N Harris, G E. Lee, Mrs S J. Lemon, C R Morgan, T.A Powell, Mrs. U.K. Stevenson, R E Vingoe, Mrs L Walker, P F A. Webster and D A Weir
Auolo!zies- Councillors Mrs J H Giles, Mrs H L.A Glynn and A. Hosking.
Visitine: by Invitation: Councillors R A. Amber, Mrs V.E. Clark, Mrs M Hunnable, Mrs A R. Hutchings, V H. Leach, Mrs. P.M.V. Pearse and D J Sutton
547 IBCAL GovERNmNT REVIEW-DRAFTRE COHMENDATIONS ON THE FDTORB OF IDCAL GOVEP3HENT OF BASILWN AND THURROCK IN THE COUNTY OF ESSEX (Minute 505/951
The Committee had met to consider the joint report of the Chief Executive, Director of Finance and Solicitor detailing the decisions taken by the Review Group Leaders since Council on 26th September and setting out information on the likely cost of providing services in Wickford to enable an early indication to be given to residents of the implications of a merger between Rochford District and Wickford The Chief Executive had laid round a revised version of a public notice which it was proposed should be published in the "Evening Echo" and "Standard Recorder" explaining the meaning of the Commission's recommendation and encouraging residents to express their views
I" opening the Meeting the Chairman of the Committee referred to her misgivings about the merger proposals in which Rochford District was involved She said that she did not feel comfortable with the financial informatio" It was difficult because she did not want to say anything which would make a merger with Wickford more difficult but she had serious doubts about it It seemed to her that the financial position was much worse than antuzipated. The Council had consistently expressed its concerns about Rochford Council taxpayers having to pay f14.00 towards the cost of deferred purchase debt in the New Tow" and the final outcome about this was still not certain Council had also know" that service costs in Wickford were higher than in Rochford but no one could have expected that this would mean an increase of f20.00 on Rochford Council Tax bills.
The Chairman continued that there were uncertainties about whether the SSA would be enough to cover service costs in Wlckford and whether the new authority would be able to reduce costs It would mean job shedding because with CCT and contracts that was the only way to reduce service costs There was going to be a change of Government and possibly the introduction of voluntary tendering Would the Council feel able to abandon its policy of no compulsory redundancies and reduce costs?
In addition the Chairman said the Council already had pressures on its budget and knew that the Council Tax was set to rise without Wickford Only yesterday the Prime Minister had announced that the Government was to be eve" more severe on public spending She questioned whether Rochford service levels would be at risk to reduce costs across the new District This would mean that Rochford residents would be paying more for less which was the same problem over again that had led to a split in Basildon Billericay and Wickford felt that they were paying for-costs i 0 &yg?~ Policy & Resources
Town and this was resented. Yet Rochford residents would be paying for higher costs in Wickford which was the very same ingredient She felt that this would not make for a happy marriage or for the stable start the Commission was seeking The Council had to express its misgivings to the Commission because there were far too many "ifs" The Chairman asked the Committee to request the Chief Executive to draft a letter along the foregoing lines as Council's response to the Commission for approval at the next Policy & Resources Committee
The Chairman then referred to the revised Public Notice which had been laid round by the Chief Executive. There were rules about the content of review publicity material. It had to be even-handed to be legal and the Council could not set out to persuade people She felt the revised version of the Notice struck a better balance. Continuing, the Chairman said that she was very concerned about the costs and invited the Committee to ask the Local MP to take this up with the Minister once again She paid tribute to his previous efforts on the Council's behalf In COlIClUSiOll, the Chairman reminded the Committee that she was asking them to agree that the Chief Executive should draft the Council's response to the Commission and submit it to the next Policy & Resources Committee for approval, to publish the revised Public Notice and to write to Dr Michael Clark inviting him to express the Council's concerns about finances to the Minister
Although at pains to say that it was no criticism of Wickford, Members shared the sentiments expressed by the Chairman and thought there was little to benefit Rochford residents from a merger with Wickford The District was separated from Wickford by a swathe of Green Belt whereas the Town was continuous with Runwell in the Chelmsford District. Some Members were unhappy that the Commission had not persued a leaflet distribution to every household inviting Wickford residents to say where they felt they belonged Wickford residents had not been given any choice and they might see Rochford as the only means of leaving Basildon Apart from Chelmsford there had been the suggestion that they had more affinity with Billaricay and Brentwood Borough All Members felt strongly about the financial implications and the Committee accepted the proposition that if Government wanted this merger it should only proceed on the basis that no cost should fall on the Rochford Council taxpayer. The mandate from the people of Rochford had been a very clear statement in favour of status quo
The Committee also agreed that the Public Notice should be amended to improve the definition of the question on no change and, subject to the agreement of the Review Group Leaders, to add a further question on other options avalable to Wickford for merger The Chief Executive was asked to include the notice in the "Rayleigh Times" and the "Yellow Advertiser" and to display a poster to this effect in the public buildings around the District
RECOHXENDED (1) That the Chief Executive prepares for consideration by the Policy h Resources Committee the Council's response to the Commission's draft recommendation along the lines suggested by the Chairman and with the proviso that no cost should fall on the Rochford Ratepayer
(2) That the Chief Executive write to Dr. Michael Clark H.P. to once again enlist his support in bringing the financial position to the attention of Ministers l ,Policv & Resources
(3) That the revised Public Notice be approved subject to the improved definition of the No Change Option and to the addition of a further question on other options for Wickford on which the Review Group Leaders would be consulted.
(4) That arrangements be made to publish the public Notice in the "Evening Echo", "Standard Recorder", "Yellow Advertiser" and "Rayleigh Times" as well as given a wide display in public buildings across the area in poster form (31758) (CE)
NOTE The Committee noted that the Chief Executive would exercise his powers under Standing Order 18 as a matter of urgency to authorise the immediate ratification of Recommendations 3 and 4 ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL l Minutes of the Leisure Services Committee At a Meeting held on 10th October 1995 Present. Councillors Mrs H Hunnable (Vice-Chairman in the Chair), R A Amner, D E Barnes, Mrs V E Clark, E L Francis, M J Handford, N Harris, Mrs .J Helson, V C Hewlett. Mrs. A R Hutchings, Mrs S.J Lemon, C R. Morgan, Mrs. P M.V Parse, T A Powell, D.J Sutton. Hrs. L Walker and P F A Webster
ADolorries Councillors Mrs. J.A. Christie, G Fox, Mrs H.L A Glynn and A Hosking
548 NINUTES
Resolved that the Minutes of zzhe Heeting of 11th July 1995 be approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.
549 MEMBERS' INTERESTS
0 NOTE The Chairman, Councillor M C Brown, arrived and took the Chair
Interests were declared in the item on Rochford Area Youth Service - Strategic Plan 1995/96 as follows
Councillor Mrs M. Hunnable declared a non-pecuniary interest by virtue of membership of the Rochford Youth Management Committee Councillor C R Morgan declared a non-pecuniary interest by virtue of Chairmanship of Rochford Youth Management Committee
550 MONITORING OF PBRFURNANCE - NEEI-INGS OF 2ND FEBRUARY AND 6TH JDNE 1995
The Committee were satisfied that all necessary action had been taken Minute 541/92 King Geqrge's Playing Field Bowls Club a Member asked if the Club had been consulted in respect of the proposed swimming pool and the Director of Development said he would take this on board Minute 71/95 Review of Usage of Football Pitches, the Assuztant Chief Executive advised that figures would be available by December 1995.
0 The Property Services Manager advised a Hember that an order was with a contractor for the Rebound Wall - Sweyne Park
Minutes 541/92(SOL) and 71/95(ACE,DD) were carried forward
551 ROCHFORD ARF.A YOUTH SERVICE - STRATEGIC PIAN 1995/96 (Minute 412/95)
As requested at the last Meeting of this Committee when it had been agreed in principle to support Project 'B' "Outreach Work", of which Members had before them the appended revised project costs, the Chairman welcomed Mr A Dykes from the Rochford Area Youth Service who gave a presentation to the Committee explauung the scheme in more detail and answered Members questions on
- The budgetary implication In the light of the new revised costs - The number of people who had actually attended current schemes The revised staffing - The value added to this Council The areas of the District that the scheme would cover Leisure Services
- Age range of youths The project with Hockley Parish Council that had now ceased.
In discussing the areas in which the scheme would operate concern was expressed that Great Wakering and Baling did not come within the Rochford District catchment area, but within the Southend District
Members asked that a report be made in six months on the progress of the scheme and to press for Great Wakering to be included in the Rochford Youth Service catchment area It was also suggested that should the Partnership continue next year that Essex County Council be asked to provide funds towards the scheme
The Chairman thanked Mr Dykes fbr his presentation who then left the Meeting
RECONNENDED (1) That a report on the progress of the scheme be made in six months 0 (2) That Essex County Council be approached to provide funds in the forthcoming year. (33563) (ACE)
552 ROCKFURD SPORTS COUNCIL
The Committee noted the Minutes of the Meeting with representatives of Rochford Sports Council held on 19th July 1995 A Member asked about the future of the skateboarding facility at Rocheway and of costs should the facility be moved. The Assistant Chief Executive advised that ownership of the skateboard facility was with the Sports Council and they would meet such costs (897)
553 SPORTS DEVELOPMENT (Kinute 408/95)
Further to the agreement to introduce with CIRCA Leisure a joint sports development initiative to the District the Assistant Chief Executive reported on the remit of the Sports Development Officer who had taken up his post at the beginning of July, on the action taken to-date and on the twelve month draft management plan including plans for the launch of the scheme in November Some Members felt that the Council should have had more input into the appointment of the Sports Development Officer and asked that he be invited to the next Meeting of the Leisure Services committee Members were pleased with the twelve month plan and it was suggested that on Page 4 of the Plan - 'Summary of Goals' that another goal be added chat being to maximise use of lasure premises for sports and recreational activities and on sub-goals to add "include working with people with disabilities"
RECOMMENDEDThat approval be grven to the Sports Development Management Plan as amended above. (33562) (ACE)
554 SPECIAL EVENTS ON PLAYING FIELD (Minute 493/941
This item was deferred to allow a detailed report on events to come before the next Leisure Services Commzttee
RECOHMENDED That a full report of all events be made to the next Leisure Services Committee, together with details of noise monitoring and control l arrangements(131) (ACE) lJb1186 Leisure Services
0 555 SCHOOL SutMER HOLIDAYS - CHILDREN'S PLAY (Hinute 323/95)
The Assistant Chief Executive reported on the high level of response to the Council's joint initiative with CIRCA Leisure in providing summer holiday play schemes in the District and on CIRCA'S suggestion to make some adjustments in the light of experience gained, namely -
(i) To reduce the length of each session from 10 OOam - 4 OOpm to lO.OOam 3 OOpm
(ii) To increase the cost to fl per session
(iii) To review the siting of some schemes In order to take advantage of the fact that some school premises might be made available.
Members were pleased at the success of the scheme but did not agree with the proposed increase In fees or the change of hours and asked that they remain *s they were this year but include additional places. The Committeeconsidered that subject to funding being available the scheme l should be repeated in 1996 noting that equipment costs would be lower RECOKKENDED That subject to provision being available in 1996/97 to enable the childrens' summer play schemes to continue a detailed report upon revised proposals be submitted to a future Meeting of the Committee for approval (33556) (ACE)
556 ESSEX GAMES
The Assistant Chief Executive reported that the Essex Association of Leisure Officers (HALO) had highlighted the financial burden placed annually on the host District for the Essex Games and this was currently the subject of consultation with representatives from all of the District Sports Council, together with the Essex Games Management Committee (EGMC) , on the proposed review of the Essex Games It was envisaged that this year's games at Tendring would be the last held in the current format.
RECOWHENDEDThat a further report upon the future of the Essex Games be 0 submitted co the Committee in due course. (131) (ACE)
557 YOUTH ARTS POLICY
The Committee consldered the appended report of the Assistant Chief Executive regarding the Youth Arts Policy review and it was noted that the contribution of f450 towards the salary costs of Mr Stowe was a one-off payment
Furthermore, consideration needed to be given for a Member representative to be nominated to attend the Management Committee for the Youth Arts Partnership, and with the agreement of the Committee this would be made at Council.
RECO!@fENDED (1) That this Council agree to make a one-off contribution of f450 towards the salary costs of Mr Stowe of King Edmund6 School.
(2) That provision of f2,OOO be included I-n the draft estimates for 1996/97 as thu Council's contribution towards the 0 Leisure Services 0 Partnership
(3) That Council be asked to nominate a Member to attend the Management Committee of the Youth Arts PartnershFp (131) (ACE)
558. ADULT EDUCATION INITIATIVES
The Assistant Chief Executive reported on the outcome of discussions with the Castle Point and Rochford Adult Community College, aimed at delivering adult education opportunities to the wider conntunity The intention was to commence with a review and survey of Adult Education Opportxnities in Great Wakering, to be followed by an investigation into the possibilities of using Civic Suite, Rayleigh and jointly with the Hock&y Parish Council, into the day use of their Parish Rooms
In the meantime, CIRCA Leisure had been approached with a view to extending non-vocational adult education to leisure premises, by using quiet periods during the daytime which occurred in all of the buildings At Clements Hall, initial thoughts were to link some classes with regular l activities such as ladies' recreation and the Over 50's.
CIRCA would be contacting tutors who already held classes. in the District and surrounding areas to ascertain whether there would be sufficient interest in the initiative and dependent upon the outcome would make the necessary financial arrangements
RECOHHENDED That a further report be made as the initiative progresses (131) (ACE)
559 NATIONAL LolTERY CONSULTATION PROCESS (Hinute 73/95>
The Assistant Chief Executive reported that in accordance with the agreed procedure the Chairman of Leisure and the Chairman of the Rochford Sports Council had been consulted to enable a response to be made on two applications for lottery funding
(i) Construction of a covered swimming pool on the site of Grove Junior School for the use of pupils and the local community 0 Changing rooms and toilets would also be provided and would be available to those using the school playing field
(ii) Provision of a new pavilion and toilets for the Great Wakering Royal British Legion Bowls Club
Members were pleased to note that the swimming pool was supported as being a valuable scheme with some sports development potential while the pavilion was supported as a high priority prolect in new of the existing facility being 60 years old and without toilet facilities Members also noted that the revised date for the National Lottery Presentation was now 8th November 1995 (99)
560 QUARTERLY PEXFORHANCE REPORTS (1ST APRIL - 30TH JUNE 19952 olinute 324/95)
The Committee noted the Quarterly Performance Reports for this Service Committee 0 Leisure services
A Member asked for clarification on Page F2 4 1 (iv) Community Liaison- arising from which the Assistant Chief Executive reported on the vandalism and misuse of play equipment etc which had taken place during the summer holidays and that B full report would be made on the youth problems involved to the next Meeting of the Leisure Services Committee for which the Community Liaison Officer would be in attendance Members who had incidents occur within their Wards were also concerned at the attitude of the Police and the action taken by them and asked that a representative from the Police also attend that meeting
RECOMMENDED (1) That a report on youth problems and vandalism be made to the next Leisure Services Committee
(2) That a representative from the Police be invited to attend that Meeting. (1600) (CE)
561 PERTINENT BUSINESS
The Chairman advised the Committee that Roller City were having another 0 meeting next week, that progress was being made on the Canewdon and Great Wakering Pavilions end that the Festive Lights Committee were holding a film show at Mill Hall on 13th October.
A Member also advised that the Sweyne Choral Society were going to the Seychelles as part of the Arts Festival where they would perform and asked if the Chairman of the Council could attend the send-off on Sunday 22nd October AGENDA ITEM 12 l ROCHMRD DISTRICT COUNCIL LEISURE SERVICES COMHITTEE - 1OTH OCTOBER 1995
REPORT OF THE ASSISTANT CHIEF FXECUTIVE
YOUTH ARTS POLICY Hinute 319/95)
Members were advised at a previous Heeting of this Committee of the intention of Essex County Council to review the provision of music and youth arts withLn the County A partnership, which ~111 be responsible for formulating and delivering a Youth Arts Policy, specified by the County Council, has been formed comprising representatives of the Rochford Area Youth Service, Rochford District Council, Hullbridge Theatre Arts and Teachers from the four secondary schools in the District representing music, drama and art
Essex County Council offered f3,OOO development funding, aimed to assist with the development of the policy, for which each partnership was advised to 8PPlY The applications from the Rochford Consortium were successful and Mr Stowe. the head teacher of music at King Edmund School, was appointed by the Consortium es a lead person in formulating the development plan and setting up the partnership for 1996 To assist, the school is providing dedicated office accommodation with a telephone end is allowing Mr Stowe to work one day per week over the academic year In order to produce the plan It is necessary to top-up the f3,OOO development grant in order to cover Mr Stowe's salary costs, therefore, each partner has been requested to contribute f450 00. Members are reminded that there is no specific provision for arts activities in the budget The Director of Finance has confirmed that the cost can be met from elsewhere within the budget
At a recent meeting of the partnership, it was agreed that with the exception of the Rochford School of Music which is currently subsidised by Essex County Council and which will in future be funded by the partnershlp, any activities provided will be in addition to those extra curricular activities already provided in schools These additional activities will be provided for youths aged between 10 and 19 years of age l in ;he wider community
To demonstrate their commitment, the schools will be offering their facilities free of charge to enable teachers' fees and equipment costs to be met The Youth Service has also offered use of its facilities. The personnel currently working in the arts will extend their provision, working more closely with the schools and other organisations in addition to playing an active role in providing extra activities
It was requested that the contribution from the Council should be to enable any productions by the Youth Arts Partnership to be held in either the Mill Ha.11 or the Freight House free of charge As this would involve negotiations with CIRCA Leisure, a donation to cover the cost of hiring the hall for the duration of such a production, would be more appropriate As this is the start of an ongoing partnership, provision "111 be required in the core budget
It is envisaeed that a ~001 of resources such es this will enable more cross curricular work to take place, facilitate production and break down 0 the barriers which exist between different organisations 136 11%~ Before B development plan can be produced, it is necessary to produce a directory of current provision in the District to ascertain the existing activities and enable proper planning and provision of additional activities. The development plan will be submitted to Essex County Council during November. If the vision of the partnership is acceptable, funding will be provided to enable the vision to be realised. A brief summary of the background to the review together with details of the funding which will be allocated as shown in Appendix
It is accordingly
RECOMMENDED (1) That this Council agree to make a contribution of f450 towards the salary costs of Mr Stow of King Edmund School
(2) That provision of f2,OOO be included in the draft estimates for 1996/97 *s this Council's contribution towards the partnership (131) (ACE) AfyxTd tx
Rochford Youth Arts Partnershtp
Rochford Youth Arts Office c/o The Ktng Edmund School Vaughan Close Rochford
Telephone & Fax (01702) 545668
l Youth PalmershIps to be set up m I7 locahtles from Apnl 1996
l fundtng would be allocated formula based on Youth populatton between IO - 19 Addmonal tunds would take account of soctal deprtvatlon and the rural nature of some areas
. Formula ftmdmg would be phased m over a five year penod
. The MO& of the Partnershtps would meet a County Spectticatton
WIICIIhr~s hnppcnecl \o fh7 Essex Semmar on Ms Partnershtps at Esse\ Showground 27 March 1995 Meettng of tnsterested establtshments m Rokford Area 4 April 1995 Meetmg wth Bella D’Arcy to discuss e Ftbe Year Allocatton 1995196 (MUSIC R: Drama School)------~ I iS64 ------(Tot.11 e~p mcludms \t,!tl costs L23649 lncomc from fees L7785) 1996/97 (Rochfold Youth Arts) ------~------f I7037 ,997,95 ------._._...__ --_-- ...... _. __.... 118977 ROCHFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL 0 Minutes of the Transwrtation Committee At a Swcial Meeting held on 11th October 1935. Present: Councillors D.E. Barnes (Chairman), D F. Flack, Mrs. H L.A. Glynn, Mrs. 3. Helson, V H Leach, C R. Morgan, R A Pearson, T A. Powell, P J Stanton, S.R Tellis, R E Vingoe, Mrs. L Walker. D.A Weir and Mrs M.A Weir pooloaies. Councillor P.A Beckers,CurCI mf5 sti b(kS Visitiw bv Invitation Councillors Mrs. H Hunnable and Hrs. S.J. Lemon. Parish Councillors C Bellman, Miss S Byrne Lagrue, Mrs. U. Ellis, M. Fallon, Mrs. S. James, c: Iawrence, Mrs L Parish, Mrs J. Smith and Mr J Stevenson County Councillors R H.Boyd and Mrs P. Smith Councillor Weller - Chairman of Highways Committee, Castle Point Borough council l Mr N Thomas - Director of Technical Services, Castle Point Borough Council Mr D. Reader - Director of Engineering Services, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Mr Gipson - Essex County Council, Public Transport Co-ordination Section Section Mr Brewer - National Federation of Bus Users Mr Fuller - Friends of the Earth Mr Barratt - Operations Director, Thamesway Ltd Mr Salmon Director and General Hanager, Southend Transport Mr Tomlin - Traffic Manager, Southend Transport Hr Stephenson - Stephenson Coaches Mr Swift Trading Standards, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Sergeant Downing - Traffic Division, Essex Police 562 MEXBERS' INTERESTS Councillor P J Stanton declared a non-pecuniary interest in this item by l virtue of having in the past driven for Southend Transport on a part-time basis and occasionally for Stephenson's Coaches 563 CAKPAIGN FOR BETTER BUS SERVICES (Minute 367/951 The Chairman of the Committee opened the Meeting by welcoming everyone. He explained that at the June Meeting of the Committee, Members had resolved to seek support to a campaign for better bus services and to invite Parish Councils, Southend-on-Sea and Castle Point Borough Councils, the County Council, Friends of the Earth, Transport 2000 and representatives of the local bus industry to participate in a special meeting, the man purposes of which were to try and reach a consensus on concerns and issues facing the area in relation to bus provision and to discuss ways in which these areas of concern could be addressed to the benefit of local residents He advised the Meeting of the order in which he proposed to take speakers commencing with the visiting District COUnCilS Councillor Weller began by stressing the need for more express routes between town centres to link with smaller buses operating on internal routes I He said he was concerned about the lack of bus services to and from Canvey Island and the loss of services to Southend Hospital particularly now that: medical provision had been concentrated at the Southend Hospital site. There "as cc~ncern too at the lack of consultation priLX to changes to services and timetables and at the need for better bus-related facilities, e g. shelters and seats Mr Reader from Southend-on-Sea Borough Council said his Council would welcome and support the campaign and that there were three issues which his Members were concerned about, namely the need for direct bus links from Leigh to Southend Hospital, from Shoebury High Street to the Health Clinic in Campfield Road, and the service to the Cliffs Pavilion in the evening. One Member from each group on the Council "as invited to speak next. Concern was expressed at the lack of services to and from the rural areas of the District especially at weekends and evenings. There were problems with the reliability of services and concern was expressed at the sudden change in fares Problems of timetabling were outlined, particularly in relation to the needs of schoolchildren and workers at peak times For example, there were only a few buses to SEEVIC in Thundersley and many children were left stranded if buses were full, running late or had been withdrawn. There WBS concern at the lack of consultation from the bus companies regarding service and timetable changes and the problems of *ccess to the centralised hospital facilities at Southend from various parts of the District were highlighted It was felt that there should he much greater publicity and information on the services available and any changes made Initiatives such as the taxi bus service were welcomed and it "as considered that there "as a need to develop a partnership approach between the various bodies involved to SWXPZ improved bus service provision. Extracts from a letter from Barling Parish Council were read out which criticised the routing of bus service 4B, the insufficiency of that SW?fiCX at peak periods to and from Barling and the need for additional services to the Hospital The Chairman then called upon a representative from each Parish Council present who spoke as follows - Parish Councillor Mrs Smith said Canewdon Parish Council "as concerned at the lack of consultation from the bus companies especially regarding the re-routing of service 7C - Parish Councillor Mrs Parish said Hawkwell Parish Council would like bus companies to provide a route along Hall Road, Rochford to the Hall Road Cemetery then via the new 81013, to Southend Hospital - Parish Councillor Mrs James said Hockley Parish Council also saw a need for a route to serve Southend Hospital - Parish Councillor Mr Lawrence of Rawreth Parish Council voiced concern at the lack of consultation and the sudden changes to route patterns. - Parish Councillor Stevenson from Hullbridge Parish Council voiced concern that there was no bus service to and from the Dome Caravan Park whuzh had been withdrawn because of underuse Late night buses had also been withdrawn apparently due to vandalism and fear of violence but he often used buses t and had never experienced a problem Ubl194 - Councillor Mrs Weir spoke on behalf of Rochford Parish Council with regard to the lack of services to Hall Road Cemetery and SEEVIC in Thundarsley. Parish Councillor Bellman of Great Wakering Parish Council was concerned that in his ares routes 4 and 4A had been withdrawn, that there was a need for a bus route direct to Southend Hospital and that there was only one bus in the morning and one in the afternoon leavng Great Wakering. Next Hr Gipson, the Deputy Public Transport Co-ordination Officer for Essex County Council explained to the Committee his Council's duty to co- ordinate the provision of public transport in Essex If a bus service was considered necessary in a particular area, tenders would be sought from a selection of the thirty bus companies operating in the County. No notice was required from a bus company for alterations to a timetable of less than five minutes, otherwise thry had to inform the Traffic Commissioner at Cambridge forty-two days in advance. The Essex County Council was the only County to publish revised timetables every two months but members of the public who required more up-to-date information could always ring the Essex Bus Line Help Number Mr Brewer advised the Meeting that the purpose of the National Federation of Bus Users, which was affiliated to Transport 2000, was to represent the interests of bus users. It was a completely voluntary, independent and non-political organisation He spoke of the need for imaginative schemes to improve services and protect the environment and felt there should be an Ombudsman service to deal with complaints from bus passengers. Mr Fuller of Friends of the Earth said that buses needed to be more convenient and comfortable to displace the motor car Active steps needed to be taken to force people to use public transport, bus lanes with planned congestion, restricted car parking provision and encouragement for alternatives such as cycling Members of the Committee commented on the problems associated with the centralisation of services at Southend Hospital, the lack of notice given to users, the re-routing of some services, the needs of Rochford's ageing population and the age, condition and speed of some of the buses which had difficulty in adhering to very restricted timetables. One Member wondered whether drivers were consulted when timetables were set and questioned the comparative cost of running different sized vehicles. County Councillor Boyd spoke of the partnership that now existed between Parishes, Districts and the County in Essex He advised the Committee of the work of an Essex County council Sub-Committee which was effectively a co-ordinating body for matters affecting public transport. There was a need to integrate the provision of public transport and not view any one aspect in isolation Other Members of the Committee endorsed much of what had gone before referring to the need for more frequent services, the requirement of a true partnership and information on matters such as how changes to bus services were reported and dealt with The Chairman then called upon the bus operators to comment Hr Barratt addressed some of the points raised during the debate He said that ThEmesway were investing heavily in a new fleet which incorporated lower floors for easy access to and from buses and were looking at a tannoyed system similar to one already in operation in London His company aimed to give ten days notice of timetable changes to users, did consider the views of drivers and although it probably could do better was constantly looking to improve Its operation He had learnt a lot from that evening's Meeting and would welcome being involved in an active group Mr Salmon said he concurred with the comments of the previous speaker, that Southend Transport catered for the majority of routes and had a good bus network He had not received any individual complaints about the 0 SEEVIC route from Hockley but reported that there were now two buses running The service 21 from Leigh to Southend Hospital was now running every half hour. He would look more closely at the problems of infrastructure and asked the Council if there were any facilities available for them to advertise changes to timetables, i e leaflets or booklets issued by the Council so that residents got to know of changes Mr Stephenson commented that local authorities were empowered to commission and pay for de minimis services at short notice if they perceived a need for them. The Chairman thenked all those who had pxrtlcipntnd in the dnhnte nnd suggested that they now needed to look for a way forward A Member suggested the setting-up of a panel involving all the bodies represented that evening to focus on the bus transport issues that had been raised Other Members were mindful however that there were already a number of existing bodies For example, Parish Councils appointed a 0 Public Transport Liaison Officer to meet the County Council twice a year to discuss such matters, SEETLAG (South East Essex Transport Liaison Group) which comprised Officers, public transport and taxi operators, met three times a year and there were other transport groups. After some debate Members agreed that they needed to know more about these bodies and of reference before considering the promotion of another :%.i ~%%iWxto&~D~ waseM&+asked to - (1) carry out an audit of existing bodies and their terms of reference (ii) contact all those bodies represented at the Special Meeting for their formal reaction to the establishment of a new public transport forum and its possible terms of reference (iii) examine what a new forum could achieve taking into account the concerns expressed at the Special Meeting (iv) report further to the Transportation Committee in due course.@') The Chairman thanked everyone for attending NOTE During discussion of the foregolng item it was Resolved that Standing Order 1 8 be suspended until 10.15pm