Recreation Ground Committee Minutes - 2 November 2007

This area had now been extensively landscaped and reseeded.  Two picnic benches had been purchased.

(b) Boundary Fencing

It was noted that all boundary fencing to the skateboard field had been completed.

The children’s play area equipment had been repainted and paling fencing replaced and painted as necessary.  A semi permeable membrane had been installed together with play bark. 

It was noted that some remedial work was necessary to the large wooden item of play equipment and most of the equipment and fencing required a further coat of paint. 

On the day of the meeting all the equipment and picnic tables were very much in use.  Adults, when questioned, said they would welcome a further item of play equipment and more seating.  The safety surfacing under the large swings had already become torn and hollowed out.  The Clerk had costed tiled safety surfacing (£800).

RESOLVED:   That provision of a roundabout (£1,800) and safety surfacing be added to the budget request for 2008/09.

It was noted that as Mr John Painter, Probation Service Supervisor, had been allocated to a high risk group it was no longer appropriate for them to work in the Recreation Ground.  However, the Probation Service are still holding some materials for the Parish Council

RESOLVED:  That the Clerk ascertain the whereabouts of the materials, try to find local storage facilities and arrange for their movement to the Parish Council’s keeping.

It was noted that vandalism was again taking place in the Recreation Ground.  Mr Rollé reported that he had made some enquiries into the provision of a security camera for the Recreation Ground which could be linked to a computer.

RESOLVED:  That provision for this item (£800.00) be added to the budget request for 2008/09

It was noted that the gravel track now had a number of potholes and the signage was in a deteriorated condition.  Further signage towards the footpath into the High Street (Meridien Garage) was also thought appropriate.

RESOLVED:  To seek ideas/costings for a new sign at the entrance to the Recreation Ground and to make enquiries regarding whether permission could be obtained for a further sign in a more prominent position.  Quotations would also be obtained for repairs to the gravel track.

Discussion took place regarding the possibility of providing a nature trail and/or fitness track around the perimeter of the Recreation Ground.  These items had both been requested in the Parish Plan questionnaire. 

It was also thought appropriate to further enhance the area between the entrance track to the car park and the children’s play area.

RESOLVED:  To add the sum of £2,000 for clearance and maintenance work to the perimeter to the budget request for 2008/09 and to add a further sum of £750 for further landscaping to the grass area adjacent to the children’s play area.

At present there was a small area of tarmac in the skateboard field for use with the basketball ring.  However, it was considered that by extending this tarmac street skating provision could be made.

RESOLVED:  To add the sum of £1,000 to the budget request for 2008/09

In the absence of any other business the Chairman thanked those present for attending and closed the meeting.