50 Parish Council News
Coldwaltham PC Edited extracts taken from the draft minutes of the Annual Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 10th December 2019. Chairman’s Report The Councillor updated members regarding the continued absence of the groundsman at the Alban Head and confirmed he is keeping in touch with him on a regular basis. The Councillor would also like to thank the speed-watch volunteers for all their hard work, and expressed the Council's continued support for the scheme. There have been a number of complaints regarding drainage around the village especially in Hardham. In light of the recent election, the Councillor also noted the increased genuine interest in the village for the Green debate, and encouraged members to think of ideas for future discussions over what the Council might do regarding this matter. He highlighted that Storrington, Cowfold and Pulborough parishes all have issues with pollution. However, it was noted that there are many aspects to the Green debate (carbon emissions, waste management, biodiversity, etc.) but given the limited power of the Parish Council, what would be achievable would have to be realistic. Finally, it was noted that a white car had been parked in the car park at the Alban Head for over a week - it was suggested that a permanent “No Overnight Parking” sign be put up.
Parish Survey Feedback The Council has received about 35 responses to-date from the parish consultation, therefore only about 10% of residents have so far responded. Out of these, only one response was unhappy with the Parish Council’s aims. The consultation has facilitated the creation of a list of residents who might need support in difficult weather and offers of help. Only a few responses had indicated a willingness to work on a Neighbourhood Plan. Health and Wellbeing One of the Councillors expressed her concern that if there are few activities for younger people in the parish, research shows that they become disillusioned, and find their own entertainment. She suggested that new sports might be available e.g. Judo, which may be accommodated at Sandham Hall or Lodge Hill. The Council then confirmed that there are possible contacts with Lodge Hill which could be pursued, and the Parish Council supported provision for all ages. Horsham District Council The district has many ancient hedgerows, and are trying to put a plan together to improve the biodiversity, part of which is looking to replace lost Elm and Ash trees. Horsham Council also has a £40k funding pot for projects which tackle climate change. www.coldwalthampc.org.uk
Fittleworth PC Edited extracts taken from the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 14th November 2019. Planning Applications SDNP/19/05110/HOUS Dovelet, Limbourne Lane Creation of two bay oak framed garage. The committee had no objection to the application and to the Little Amber application for the same style of garage next door. It was confirmed that the opening sides will be oriented away from Limbourne Lane. SDNP/19/05171/FUL. Douglaslake Farm, Little Bognor Rd Retrospective planning application for the retention of existing change of use from redundant agricultural buildings to B1 storage - Unit 1 Marquis, tents and events equipment. Unit 2 Portaloos and ancillary equipment. The Committee was asked what its position was and it was agreed to seek to inspect the site. It was agreed that the additional information requested by the planning officer would be important and it was agreed to submit a holding objection in the meantime. SDNP/19/04976/TCA. Rose Cottage, School Lane Notification of intention to prune back to previous pruning points on one Weeping Willow. The Committee had no objection to this proposal.
Planning Appeals APP/79507/C/19/3220029 and SDNP/17/00755/ COU Lithersgate Common, Bedham Lane Members received an appeal for the following proposal of the implementation of a site for BMX cycling and associated jumps. The Committee thought that the appeal should be considered, not only in the light of the National Park’s purposes, but also in light of the importance of access to the wider non-resident public, particularly young visitors to the Parish. It was discussed that the issues of environmental impact and threat to the tranquillity of the area was to be re-addressed by tightly drawn planning conditions which consider the development times and site restoration. The Committee decided the impact of BMX cycles was considered barely intrusive as compared to unauthorised use of motorbikes at a nearby site. The Committee’s final decision was not published in the minutes. Further matters Regarding the two storey building at Strawberry Fields, Sandy Lane, Fitleworth, the Committee were unsure why the two storey building to the rear of the building had been used for residential purposes for so long. www.fittleworth-pc.org.uk
