Present:
Mr M Bőckle (Chairman), Mr F Alexander, Mr G Bisson, Mr P Boyes, Mr J Charlesworth and Mrs H Klaassen.
In Attendance:
Mrs M Weston (Clerk to the Council)
1. Apologies for Absence
An apology for absence was received from Mr M Rollé.
2. Declarations of Interest
None.
3. Minutes of the Last Meeting
The Minutes of the Amenities Committee meeting held on 22 October 2009 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman as a true and accurate record.
4. Matters Arising
(a) Bulbs
It was noted that none of the bulbs planted in Autumn 2009 appeared to be coming through and a closer inspection would be made along the roadside as well as in the Recreation Ground. The possibility of providing cyclamen bulbs for the trees on Gales Green near Calpe Avenue and at the entrances to Knightwood Close and Haskells Close would be explored
(b) Commemorative Tree at Great Mead
Mr Bisson stated that there was no further news regarding the proposal for the Twinning Committee to plant a tree at Great Mead. The Twinning Committee would contact Brian Wilson, NFNPA, regarding the suitability of a tree for Great Mean.
(c) Village Signs
It was noted that there were five entrances to the village. Further progress had not yet been made regarding a new logo for the sign. Mr Bisson stated that in the interim it might be possible to clean the signs.
5. Bridleway – Silver Street to Blackwater
The Chairman stated that this bridleway formed part of the Village Walk and although some work had been undertaken, possibly approximately ten years ago, to improve drainage the path was now in a very deteriorated state making it difficult to negotiate in summer and impossible to use in winter.
Hampshire County Council Countryside Access Officer had indicated that grants would be obtainable for 75% of the work needed to provide a multi-user access (up to £7,500) from HCC and NFNPA.
The Chairman had met with representatives on site and could progress a grant application. Mr Bisson said he felt it should be made clear to local landowners that the Parish Council would not be responsible for the future upkeep of the path.
RESOLVED: That authorisation be given for the necessary work to progress.
6. Benches and Bus Shelters
The previously agreed work had now been completed on the benches and bus shelters. A new seat had been installed near the war memorial and a seat had been relinquished near the Cemetery. This followed stipulations laid down by the Forestry Commission.
RESOLVED: That the Chairman make contact with the ex-serviceman who had been stationed in the area during the war concerning his wish to have a commemorative plaque placed on the seat in memory of his comrades.
It was reported that the seat in Romsey Road (opposide Wellands Road) was in a bad condition.
RESOLVED: That the Chairman examine the seat and take the necessary remedial action.
Discussion took place regarding the programme of work to be undertaken on seats in the coming financial year.
RESOLVED: That the Chairman be authorised to decide on which seats required remedial action and the level of work that should be carried out.
It was noted that the bus shelter in the car park was in need of refurbishment.
RESOLVED: That the Clerk write to NFDC to ask that action be taken.
7. School Shelter
The Chairman stated that a proposal had been made to place a much needed bus shelter outside the infant school to allow children and parents to shelter from the elements. He had contacted local architects Simpson Hilder who had agreed to produce plans for the shelter free of charge.
It was noted that it might be necessary to seek planning permission and that a road sign would have to be moved to accommodate the shelter. It might also be necessary to remove the existing bench.
RESOLVED: That authorisation be given for the necessary work to progress.
8. Any Other Business
Mr Boyes would clean the shelter in Southampton Road when the weather improved.
It was agreed that the Parish Council would like to become involved in funding and making use of the new noticeboard that would be erected at the Community Centre.
In the absence of any other business the Chairman thanked those present for attending and closed the meeting.
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