1. Election of Chairman
RESOLVED: That Mr Rollé be elected Chairman for the ensuing year.
2. Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Mr M Böckle and Mrs P Wyeth.
3. Declarations of Interest
None.
4. Minutes of the Previous Committee Meeting
The Minutes for the meeting held on 24 October 2009, having been circulated, were approved as a true and accurate record and signed by the Chairman.
5. Matters Arising
None.
6. Recreational Equipment
The Chairman reported that an order had been placed for an aerial runway. Research undertaken had indicated that most runways were 15 – 20 metres in length and were only suitable for younger children.
It had already been established that the aim of the equipment would be to appeal to older children and it had proved necessary to place an order for an aerial runway that was slightly higher, more sturdy and 25 metres in length.
This was more costly than originally planned but the cost would be offset by postponing the provision of the last stretch of perimeter fencing until a later date. It was planned to hold the opening of the new equipment to coincide with the NFDC Recreation Roadshow on 4 August. Plans for other activities on the day were discussed.
RESOLVED:
(a) That the Chairman consult with Keith Dumper regarding the bouncy castle and face painting (as last year).
(b) That the Chairman contact Buzzy the Clown (as last year).
(c) That the Chairman make enquiries regarding someone who supplied coffee and other refreshments.
(d) That the Clerk organise the ice cream lady (as last year).
(e) That Mrs Klaassen make enquiries regarding a quiet corner for stories, etc
(f) That Mrs Trend provide a gazebo and materials for colouring.
(g) That the Chairman and Clerk prepare posters and a programme.
(h) That a competition be organised involving children looking for items known by each letter of the alphabet.
(i) That the Clerk ask NFDC if they would sponsor two toilets for the event.
(j) That the Scouts be asked if they would like to provide a barbecue by way of a funding opportunity.
(k) To make the theme for the day Super Heroes and to offer a prize for the best fancy dress.
7. Combating Vandalism
The Chairman reported that there had been some vandalism in the Recreation Ground recently and play equipment and a picnic table had been damaged. Mr John MacKenzie, a local carpenter, had repaired all the items to a high standard but it was felt, after consultation with PC White and PCSO Quinn that preventative steps should be taken to combat vandalism in the form of CCTV.
The Chairman had already undertaken some research. It was recognised that discussion for this item would need to take place at a full Parish Council meeting and it might be necessary to request funding from the Parish Council reserve. However, it was felt that this was justified in view of the seriousness and urgency of the matter.
RESOLVED: That the Clerk contact three security firms and ask for quotations for CCTV, giving them the specification prepared by the Chairman.
8. Skateboard Ramp
Due to general wear and tear and possible vandalism it had proved necessary to have a new surface installed on the skateboard ramp earlier this year. The cost of repairs had been £2,000 and the firm undertaking the work had pointed out that the ramp was reaching the end of its serviceable life. In consultation with the Clerk they had suggested that a new ramp be considered for the 2012/2013 budget and, on today’s prices, this was likely to cost in the region of £10,000, bearing in mind that the ramp would be widened to accommodate cyclists as well as skateboarders.
Paint had been purchased for the walls of the ramp to obliterate the graffiti and this would allow a competition for designs to be painted on the blank walls. Initially an advertisement giving details of the competition had been placed in the July issue of What’s On but after further discussion it was thought more acceptable to consult with the Heads of Art at Totton and Brockenhurst Colleges to seek their co-operation and make this a project for the Spring.
9. Any Other Business
(a) Gate, Palings and Signage into Younger Children’s Play Area
RESOLVED: That the Clerk arrange for the faulty catch on the gate between the two play areas to be remedied, signage indicating the age limit to be fixed to this gate and the palings to be repaired as necessary.
(b) Mini Olympics
RESOLVED: To consult with NFDC regarding th
(c) Youth Shelter
The Clerk reported that when she visited the Recreation Ground youths were occupying the buccaneer ship, which was intended for much younger children.
RESOLVED: To ask Mr McKenzie for costings to provide a simple shelter (four poles and a roof) that could be used by young people.
(d) Roundabout
Mrs Klaassen said she had seen a roundabout which involved children pedalling on cycles to make the equipment turn.
RESOLVED:
(a) That Mrs Klaassen source this item of equipment in order that it could be discussed further.
(b) That the Clerk ascertain when Section 106 money would be available regarding the Banner Homes project.
In the absence of any other business the Chairman thanked those present for attending and closed the meeting. |