Brockhill Residents’ Association

Minutes of Meeting Wednesday July 13th 2016

Those Present:David Dallaway​​​DD

Lynn Dallaway​​​LD

Sylvia Collinson​​​SC

Julie Vincent​​​JV

Tisha Greenway​​​TG

Apologies from James Doble (JD) and Angela Preece.​

Guests in attendance: – WCC Robin Lunn (RL), CC Pattie Hill (PH) and WCC Graham Vickery (GV).

The Agenda:

1. Actions from previous meeting

2. Membership list (joinings and resignations)

3. New membership leaflet (printing and distribution)

4. Post box for Pointers Way

5. Dog waste bins for Pointers Way

6. Quiz Night

7. “Walks Around Brockhill” leaflet

8. Public Liability Insurance

9. Smoking outside Rhymes Nursery

10. Potential parking problems re new school at Pointers Way

11. Legal sign off of Nature Reserve land ownership

12. Pennyford Close street light

13. Lily Green Lane path (either side of the traffic island)

14. Persimmon land sale at rear of Carthorse Lane

15. A.O.B.

1. Actions from previous meeting:
PH had contacted RBC’s Environmental Services Department regarding the possibility of placing safety wire around the gate at the top of the steps leading into the Nature Reserve. Regretfully no action has been taken yet and there remains a real danger of young children and dogs running in front of traffic on Brockhill Lane. 
The meeting with Ruth Bamford to discuss the community building still needs to be arranged.
DD had contacted Anthony Green of the Redditch Walks website. Unfortunately Anthony does not know the Brockhill area too well since its recent development. However he would be happy to give any assistance he could in helping to develop suitable walking routes in the area.
RL was reminded of the need to supply JD with a map of Brockhill’s Open Spaces.
SC had not yet applied for an alcohol licence as there was no requirement until the date of the next Quiz Night has been fixed (see agenda item 6). 
The AGM was held at the Batchley Community Centre and JV will book the same venue for the forthcoming Quiz Night.
The meeting with Kate Tait from Persimmon Homes was held on 11 March.
2. Membership list (joinings and resignations):

The membership list is updated on a regular basis by our website administrator Jules Collinson. SC will ask him to send DD & JV an updated list each month. It will serve as a useful aid in identifying those houses to target for the forthcoming leaflet drop – see next agenda item.  

3. New membership leaflet (printing and distribution):

JV and LD have received three quotes for the printing of 1,000 leaflets. DD asked PH to investigate the possibility of using RBC’s printing supplier to see if a better price could be obtained. Once a supplier has been selected, the printed leaflets will be distributed by committee members and hopefully other willing Association members. The main target area will be the new Pointers Way Estate. However, if possible we would also like to cover all Brockhill households that are not currently members.

4. Post box for Pointers Way:

DD & LD had spoken with the manager of the Post Office in Fishing Line Lane about the possibility of installing a post box on the new estate. The manager was unaware of the request procedure but had provided them with contact details of the Customer Services Department. DD has emailed Royal Mail and awaits a reply.

5. Dog waste bins for Pointers Way:

A new member of the Association had commented that the provision of dog litter bins and notices, similar to those in place around the Nature Reserve, would be a welcome addition to Pointers Way. As the land has not yet been adopted by RBC, their provision would be down to Persimmon Homes. RL and GV agreed to raise the matter at their September meeting at Worcestershire County Hall with Persimmon’s Planning Department.

6. Quiz Night:

A suitable date and venue for the next Quiz Night was discussed. We decided to hold it sometime in October at Batchley Community Centre. Only Monday or Saturday evenings are available and it was felt the latter to be more suitable. JV will contact the Centre to ascertain what dates in October are available. SC will arrange a drinks licence once the booking has been made.  

7. Walks Around Brockhill leaflet:

As stated in 1. above, the Redditch Walks website does not cover the Brockhill area. However it is still intended to produce a leaflet detailing walks around our area for the use by members. Eventually we hope to arrange weekend walking groups to help develop a community spirit. The provision of Brockhill’s Open Spaces map by RL will assist in the planning of walks.

8. Public Liability Insurance (PLI):

DD had investigated the cost of taking out PLI but all quotes received to date were very expensive. None of the quotes appeared appropriate to the needs of our Association. They seemed more suited to organisations with employees or to tenants/landlords. We discussed whether PLI was currently needed as our only imminent outside activity was the Quiz Night. Cover for this would be effected by the Community Hall’s own Insurance policy. When we have use of our own community building or decide to hold say a Family Fun Day, the need for PLI will assume far greater importance.

9. Smoking outside Rhymes Nursery:

PH has visited the Rhymes Nursery to speak to them about the complaints from residents concerning the litter caused by cigarette butts left on the pavement outside the Nursery School. SC, who lives nearby, informed us that the situation has since improved.

10. Potential parking problems outside the new school at Pointers Way:

Two members living in Cookridge Close, which is the road leading up to the proposed new school, have voiced their concerns about the possibility of drivers parking outside the houses. A copy of their letter in response to the Public Notice had been forwarded to all committee members plus RL, GC and PH. RL said he will be speaking to Holyoakes’ Head Teacher about a measure that has proved successful at another school in the county. This would involve the painting of a single yellow line along Cookridge Close on the houses’ side. Parking on the line would be prohibited for a couple of hours each morning and afternoon when drop offs and collections were likely to occur. Several committee members expressed concerns as to how successful this would be as people would tend to double-park on the grass verge side of the road. It was felt that the no parking restrictions would only prove successful if they could be properly policed. Also the restrictions would not cover late afternoons and early evenings when extra -curricular activities may take place.
GV said that the plans included drop off areas outside the school.

SC confirmed that Holyoakes School’s current rules stipulate that all children must be collected by a parent, grandparent or designated adult. It is not known whether this policy will apply to the new school but clearly this could have an effect on the number of pupils travelling by car.

11. Legal sign off of Nature Reserve land ownership:    

One of our members had been notified by RBC’s Senior Tree Officer that the Nature Reserve had not been adopted and was still under the ownership of Persimmon Homes. The member referred the matter to RL who subsequently met with Ruth Bamford (RBC’s Head of Planning & Regeneration) and her planning team, together with Joe Turner of Persimmon Homes South. It transpired that the only thing holding up the adoption was Persimmon’s Legal Team not signing the contracts and paying across the money, in the same way as they did for the roads two years previously. Nothing is outstanding and no work to the site needs doing. Consequently Persimmon agreed to go away and ask their lawyers finally to exchange contracts. It was confirmed that Persimmon Homes have been paying RBC to do necessary landscaping work.

12. Pennyford Close street light: 

SC had reported to RBC that a street light in Pennyford Close was not working correctly and had been told that this was the building developer’s responsibility. SC told them that she believed that the road had been adopted and it was, therefore, RBC’s responsibility. RL has contacted WCC’s Street Lighting Team.  
DD reminded RL about the street light in the public open space between Parklands Close and Appletree Lane, which has been on constantly for several years, wasting tax payers’ money. This had been reported by JV on several occasions to both RBC & WCC, but they couldn’t find the number on their system. RL said that he would look into this for us. DD gave him the number of the light – 12764.  

13. Lily Green Lane path: 

Work has commenced on the paths either side of the traffic island in Lily Green Lane. A tree has been cut down on one of the corners in readiness and the paths have been marked up. We look forward to being able to cross this busy junction more safely.

14. Persimmon land sale at rear of Carthorse Lane: 

We have been informed by certain members that they are still waiting to hear from Persimmon Homes regarding the sale of land at the rear of their properties in Carthorse Lane. The land was cleared by Persimmon several years ago and a sale price of £500 had been agreed. JV has e mailed Barry Jones at Persimmon Homes North, as instructed by Kate Tait of Persimmon Homes South, to ask what is causing the delay. JV is awaiting a reply.
RL and PH stressed the issue was a matter between Persimmon and the purchasers’ individual solicitors. It had nothing to do with RBC and RL will personally visit the residents to explain this. Once purchase has been completed, residents will need to apply to RBC for change of use certificates. RBC has stated that it will not in any way object. It is believed that only one of the purchasers has employed a solicitor to act on their behalf. 

A.O.B:
JV asked RL if he could find out who owns the grassland in Appletree Lane near to Dairy Lane, next to the field, as the fence is in a poor state and needs repairing. She also asked who owned the land on the corner of Pennyford Close and Carthorse Lane which is very overgrown. RL agreed to find out.

DD had received an email from a member, who lives in Brockhill Lane, concerned about his back garden fence which is in need of repair. The fence borders the pathway leading from Brockhill Lane to Wheelers Lane. DD had provided the member with contact details for Persimmon Homes and informed RL, GV and PH of the member’s concerns. DD also advised the owner to check his deeds to see whether the fence was his own responsibility. 
RL & GV were asked if they could find out at their meeting with Persimmon on September 20th when the bungalow on Pointers Way would be ready for use as a temporary Community Hall.
JV advised that a number of residents had complained that the dog waste bins around the Wetlands in Brockhill Park had not been emptied recently. SC also reported that the waste bin near to the Carthorse Lane post box was in poor condition and needed replacing. PH will follow up these issues.
The hosting fee for the Association’s website was up for renewal shortly. SC and Jules Collinson will deal with this.

Actions arising from this Meeting:

PH to chase up her request for the installation of a litter bin on the pathway adjacent to Greenford Close.

PH to continue pursuing Environmental Services regarding blocking off the gaps at the side of the gated entrance to the Nature Reserve.

RL to provide JD with a map of Brockhill’s Open Spaces.

SC to ask Jules to send DD and JV an up-to-date list of members each month.

PH to obtain quote from RBC’s printers for 1,000 leaflets.

DD to continue liaising with Royal Mail about the installation of a post box on Pointers Way.

RL & GV to raise the issue of dog waste bins and clear up notices for Pointers Way at their meeting in September with Persimmon.

JV to book the Batchley Community Centre for the Quiz Night.

SC to apply for an alcohol licence once a booking has been made for the Quiz Night.

RL to contact WCC’s Street Lighting Technician regarding lamppost 12764.

RL to ascertain who owns the grassland next to the field in Appletree Lane near to Dairy Lane and also the wasteland on the corner of Pennyford Close and Carthorse Lane.
RL and GV to enquire at their September meeting with Persimmon when the Pointers Way bungalow is likely to be available for community use

PH to follow up issue of emptying dog waste bins around the Wetlands and replacement of bin near Carthorse Lane post box.

SC and Jules to deal with renewal of the website hosting.

The meeting closed at 9.40pm.

BROCKHILL RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held at the Batchley Community Centre on Monday March 7th 2016

In Attendance:

Committee: Sylvia Collinson, David Dallaway, Lynn Dallaway, James Doble, Tisha Greenway, Julie Vincent​.

Members: Karen Baxter, Russell Baxter, Matt Collinson, Robin Dennis, Graham Haynes, Marion Haynes, Shirley Jobson, Peter Merricks, Robert Merry, Susan Merry, Stephen Siddle, Mike Vincent, Doug Wilks.

Non Members: Olivia Baxter, David Healey.

Councillors: Mayor & RBC Pattie Hill, WCC Robin Lunn, WCC Graham Vickery.

Apologies:

Apologies were received from John Dallaway and Angela Preece. Graham Vickery advised he would have to leave early to attend another meeting.

Adopt Minutes of Previous AGM:

David Dallaway apologised that printed copies of last year’s AGM minutes were not available. However, he pointed out that a copy had rested on the Association’s website for over 9 months and hoped all in attendance had had chance to read them. His offer to read out the minutes was declined and they were then duly adopted.

Receive, Adopt and Approve Accounts:

The Treasurer’s report was circulated for inspection by members. David Dallaway pointed out that the accounts covered a period of only 11 months because this year’s AGM was taking place somewhat earlier than the previous year’s. No income had been received in the 11 months, thus illustrating that the annual cost of running the website and hosting the AGM approached £150. The Association does not levy an annual membership fee, so it is vital that as many members as possible support our quizzes since these are currently our only fund raising events. Cash at bank was currently £751 and some of this will be used to print new membership leaflets.

The Accounts were received, adopted and approved by members.

David Dallaway thanked Sylvia Collinson for her work as Treasurer.

Report on Year’s Achievements:

David Dallaway ran through the Association’s main achievements since last year’s AGM:-

• With the much appreciated assistance of Robin Lunn, 99% of all the roads (excepting the new Pointers Way development) have now been adopted. Only Turnpike Lane and Wheatcroft Close remain unadopted, but these just await completion and submission of a form by Persimmon Homes South Midlands.

• A Brockhill Residents’ Association Facebook Page has been established that continues to enjoy a large number of hits. It incorporates a “Lost Pets” section and an early warning system for crime related incidents. David Dallaway thanked James Doble for his work on setting this up.

• Access improvements have been made to the green footbridge leading from Carthorse Lane to Appletree Lane spanning Brockhill Drive.

• “Swan Watch” in Brockhill Park/Wetlands area – “No fishing” signs have now been erected around the pool at our request by RBC.

• Traffic calming measures have been installed in Salters Lane near to the Brockhill Park entrance.

• Early installation of Superfast Broadband. Peter Merricks was thanked by David Dallaway for his work on liaising with the Worcestershire project team.

• Organisation of a “Litter Pick” (part of the “Clean for the Queen” campaign). It will take place this coming Saturday and all were urged to participate.

• “No through road” sign erected at entrance to Marchwood Close. However residents claim that the sign is too high and needs re-positioning.

• Robin Lunn confirmed that work on new pathways on both sides of the traffic island at the junction of Brockhill Drive/Lily Green Lane were due to commence after April this year.

• Approval for the granting of a community facility by Persimmon Homes South Midlands. Members of the committee, together with Robin Lunn, were meeting with Kate Tait, Strategic Planning Director Persimmon Homes South Midlands, on March 11th to discuss this and to receive an update on future development plans for Pointers Way.

Executive Committee Elections:

In accordance with the Constitution, three committee members must resign at each AGM. Sylvia Collinson – Treasurer, Julie Vincent – Secretary and Tisha Greenway tendered their resignation but all were available for re-election. Attendees were asked if there were any other proposals for election to the committee but none was forthcoming. The three existing committee members were proposed for re-election by Robin Dennis and seconded by Mike Vincent.

Future Objectives:

James Doble outlined our future main objectives:

• Growth of membership with a particular emphasis on targeting residents of Pointers Way.

• Development of community facilities.

• Funding of a third community notice board for Pointers Way.

• Quiz Night

• New post boxes for Pointers Way.

• “Open spaces” naming competition.

• Production of “Walks around Brockhill” leaflets and maps.

• Expediting adoption of roads on Pointers Way.

• Growth of relationship with Persimmon Homes South Midlands.

• Safety improvements to be made around the gate at the top of the steps leading from Brockhill Lane up to the Nature Reserve.

• Creation of new path in Lily Green Lane at the road traffic island for safer crossing.

• Traffic calming measures in Salters Lane at the junction with Oaktree Avenue.

• Re-installation of staggered barriers at the Salters Lane end of Brockhill Park.

• Re-installation of litter bins around Brockhill Park

A.O.B.

The state of the derelict farmhouse and barns, situated next to the Pointers Way Development, was raised by several members. The farmhouse was set alight several years ago. The barns and remaining outbuildings are in a very poor state of repair, posing a safety risk. A number of the surrounding protective barriers have collapsed thus enabling easy access to the buildings, particularly by children. It was established that Persimmon Homes are still responsible for access to this land. We will be voicing our concerns at the aforementioned meeting with Kate Tait on March 11th and will request repair of the protective fencing.

Peter Merricks raised the issue of RBC spending section 106 monies, arising from Persimmon’s Oaklands development, on areas outside Brockhill. James Doble said this was not illegal and nothing could now be done about it. However, we must ensure that section 106 monies in relation to the Pointers Way development are used specifically for the benefit of the Brockhill community.

Matt Collinson voiced his concern about the speeding traffic along Salters Lane on the bend near to the entrance to Brockhill Park. “It is an accident waiting to happen”, he said, as children on scooters and bicycles emerge from the Park on to the busy road. There needs to be a crossing or traffic calming measures put in place. Many people use this route to cross over to get to the shops, playground and bus stop. Robin Lunn said that speed bumps could not be installed as it is on a bus route. However he agreed to investigate what monies may be available to provide another method of traffic calming.

A number of members had heard and or seen cars being raced around Brockhill, particularly along Brockhill Drive. Pattie Hill strongly urged reporting of all such instances to her and/or the police, giving details of place and time, immediately they are witnessed.

An enquiry was made as to whether there would be a bus route through Pointers Way once the new school had been built. Robin Lunn replied that this issue would be addressed nearer the time of completion of the school. Whichever bus company was then in operation would be approached.

Several dog walking members had experienced sheep in the field behind Parklands Close. It was confirmed by Pattie Hill that warning notices to keep dogs on a lead were the responsibility of the landowning farmer. Similarly the repair of a broken entrance stile was also the farmer’s responsibility.

Pattie Hill read out a list of forthcoming events, activities and community projects of interest and benefit to people in the Redditch area.

The meeting ended at 8.35 p.m.

BROCKHILL RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

  Minutes of Meeting Monday January 11th 2016

Those Present:

David Dallaway​​​DD

Lynn Dallaway​​​LD

Sylvia Collinson​​​SC

Julie Vincent​​​JV

James Doble​​​JD

Apologies: Tisha Greenway and Angie Preece.​

Guests in attendance: – WCC Robin Lunn (RL), CC Pattie Hill & Mayor of Redditch (PH) and WCC Graham Vickery (GV).

Actions from last meeting:

New membership leaflets – JD

Culvert rubbish bag clearance – PH

Date for commencement of new path at Lily Green Lane traffic island – RL

Pointers Way notice board – PH

Public Liability Insurance – DD

Chase up e-mail to Jackie Boreham re: ‘No Fishing’ signs for balancing ponds in Brockhill Park – JV

Litter bin for Greenford Close – PH

Entry forms for ‘the public open spaces’ naming competition – JD

JD said that the new membership leaflets should be finished by the end of February.

JD confirmed that the bin liners had still not been removed from the culvert running alongside the pathway leading from Brockhill Lane to Carthorse Lane. PH thought this had already been carried out and will now check that the correct location had been given to the Grounds Maintenance Department.

RL confirmed that the new path for Lily Green Lane near the traffic island will be created after April this year; the exact date is still to be scheduled.

RL is continuing to pursue Persimmon regarding the funding of a community noticeboard to be situated on the Pointers Way estate.

DD is making enquiries with regard to Public Liability Insurance. A number of policies appear to be geared more towards residents’ associations in leased apartment blocks or those organisations with employees. Such policies insure against risks that are not applicable to our association, with their high premiums reflecting this. RL suggested trying Zurich and JD advised using the National Association of Residents Associations website.

JV is awaiting a reply to her e-mail to Jackie Boreham with regard to the ‘No Fishing’ signs for Brockhill Park. However PH assured the meeting that they would be installed by the end of the week.

PH said she had put in a request for a litter bin to be installed on the pathway adjacent to Greenford Close.

JD asked RL for a map showing all the public open spaces around Brockhill to assist his drawing up of entry forms for the naming competition.

The Agenda:

1. Safety notices for Pointers Way – poor lighting and land holes

2. Safety improvements to Nature Reserve gate

3. Plan for the community building – Pointers Way section 106 monies

4. Date for Quiz Night

5. Date for A.G.M.

6. Litter pick

7. “Walks Around Brockhill” leaflet

8. Drinks licence

9. Facebook and website – link to Alexandra Hospital’s ‘Fight to Keep Services’

10. Persimmon’s land sale – (rear of Carthorse Lane)

11. A.O.B.

1. Safety notices for Pointers Way – poor lighting and land holes:

It has been reported by a member living on the Pointers Way that there are several areas of uneven ground on the estate. These pose potential safety hazards, particularly at night as the street lighting tends to be dim. Also there is no fencing around the balancing ponds which is highly dangerous as they fill up very quickly, especially after the recent heavy rains. JV will get in touch with Kate Tait, the New Buildings Liaison Manager for Persimmon Homes, to arrange a meeting.

2. Safety improvements to Nature Reserve gate:

DD showed PH photographs taken that day of the slippery surfaces and gaps underneath and both sides of the gate at the top of the stairway leading from Brockhill Lane to the Nature Reserve. PH said that she would contact the Grounds Department at RBC to arrange for a non-slip surface to be laid and the gaps blocked off with chicken wire or the like. DD agreed to e-mail PH copies of the pictures to assist her expediting this matter.

3. Plan for the community building – Pointers Way section 106 monies:

GV had attended a meeting on 5th November, arranged by RBC with Persimmon Homes, to discuss plans for and use of the new school on Pointers Way. On a temporary basis we would hope to use the school hall for B.R.A. functions until such time that our own community building becomes available. We had asked GV to put forward our request. GV said that one of the school’s governors is a B.R.A. member with whom we will now liaise. PH agreed to organise a meeting for us with Ruth Bamford, RBC’s Head of Planning and Regeneration.  

JD suggested a way to fund the community building, that Persimmon are offering to provide is for RBC to let it out to local groups and use the income to offset running costs.

4. Date for the Quiz Night:

A suitable date to hold our next Quiz Night was discussed and it was felt that sometime after Easter, which falls early this year, would be a good time. Mid to late April would seem favourable but the availability of our excellent quizmaster, Wayne Preece, would need determining first. JV will enquire about available dates around this time at the Batchley Community Hall in Cherry Tree Walk. She will also determine whether we are able to sell our own alcohol, as the profits arising from this are a vital part of the evening’s success. Membership of the association is free and it is essential that the Quiz Night generates sufficient profit to fund the annual costs of running the association and operating the website. Members will be e-mailed and details posted on the website once a date has been agreed. (See also item 8. below)

5. Date for the A.G.M:

It was suggested we hold the A.G.M. approximately a month after the Quiz Night – JV will find out what dates are available to hire the Batchley Community Hall. (Post meeting note – the AGM is now likely to be held sometime before the quiz. Members will be informed of due dates by e-mail plus website and notice board postings.)

6. Litter pick:

A date of Saturday March 12th was selected for the litter pick. It is envisaged starting at 10 a.m. and finishing around noon. JV will make arrangements to borrow the equipment needed, i.e. litter picks and gloves, from a contact at RBC. Members will be notified of start time and where to meet by e-mail together with website and notice board postings.

7. Walks Around Brockhill:

JD will compile a leaflet containing walks around our Brockhill area for the use of members. DD will contact the Redditch Walks website to ascertain what assistance they may be able to offer. We hope to arrange walking groups at weekends to develop a community spirit.

8. Drinks licence:
SC will apply for an alcohol licence for the Quiz Night (see item 4. above). 

9. Facebook and website – link to Alexandra Hospital’s ‘Fight to Keep Services’:

JD has been monitoring our Facebook page and confirmed there had been a large number of hits from our members and other residents. We hope to form a link with the Alexandra Hospital, so that residents can be made aware of any changes to the hospital’s services. Forewarned is forearmed, so to speak.

10. Persimmon’s sale of land at the rear of part of Carthorse Lane:

We have had a few enquiries from some members in Carthorse Lane, who are in the process of buying land at the rear of their properties from Persimmon, as to why the sale is taking a lot longer than expected. PH assured us that RBC was not responsible for the delay; it is purely a matter between Persimmon and the purchasers’ individual solicitors.

11. A.O.B:

GV advised that the next P.A.C.T. meeting will be held on Saturday February 6th at the Tesco Redditch Brockhill Express store between 10am – 12pm. Details will be posted on our notice boards and website shortly.

GV told us of a Highways and Transport Forum, to be held at the Town Hall on Tuesday February 2nd, 5pm – 6.30pm. One of our committee members will be attending.

RL reported that the new Batchley/Brockhill sign will be installed before the end of the financial year. Also work on the new pathways on both sides of the traffic island at the junction of Brockhill Drive/ Lily Green Lane will commence after April this year.

SC re-raised our concerns about the dangers experienced when crossing Salters Lane from Oak Tree Avenue across in to Batchley Park. Both RL and PH said that regretfully nothing could be done at present as there was no history of any accidents at this crossing point. However RL has requested the Highways Department to install two bollards in Salters Lane near to the Beech Tree Close crossing, as a traffic calming measure.  

JD suggested organising Dog Training Groups and walks. He has a contact at Vicky’s Pet Services who would be able to provide this.

Actions from this Meeting:

PH to arrange with the Grounds Maintenance Department for safety work to be carried out around the gate at the top of the stairway leading from Brockhill Lane up to the Nature Reserve.

PH to arrange a meeting for us with Ruth Bamford to discuss the community building on Pointers Way.

DD to contact the Redditch Walks website.

RL to provide JD with a map of Brockhill’s Public Open Spaces.

SC to apply for an alcohol licence.

JV to book Batchley Community Hall for the Quiz Night and AGM.

JV to arrange a meeting with Kate Tait from Persimmon Homes.

The meeting ended at 9.20 p.m.                                                  

BROCKHILL RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Minutes of Meeting Monday June 22nd 2015

Those Present:

Sylvia Collinson​​SC

David Dallaway​​DD

Lynn Dallaway​​​LD

James Doble​​​JD

Tish Greenway​​TG

Julie Vincent​​​JV

Guest in attendance:

WCC Robin Lunn​​RL

Mayor Pattie Hill​​PH

Apologies received from Angie Preece, Brenda Quinney and Cllr Anita Clayton.

The Agenda:

1. Progress on the two remaining unadopted roads (Turnpike Lane and Wheatcroft Close).

2. B.R.A. alert system/crime & security

3. Neighbourhood Watch/PACT venue

4. Illegal fishing in Brockhill Park

5. Traffic calming or crossing on Salters Lane from Brockhill Park to Oak Tree Lane

6. Update on the progress of the new path to be constructed at the Lily Green island

7. New Sign for Brockhill at the Bromsgrove Highway/Tardebigge end of Brockhill Drive

8. Lost Pets section on our website

9. Litter Pick date

10. Naming of ‘open spaces’

11. New membership leaflets

12. A.O.B. (To include the entry to the Nature Reserve, surface at the top of the new path into the Nature Reserve, rubbish bin for walkway adjacent to Greenford Close).

1. Progress on the two remaining unadopted roads (Turnpike Lane and Wheatcroft Close):

RL said that he had spoken to Persimmon Homes to check if there was any work outstanding in these two roads. Persimmon said that any work needed had been completed, so we are now just awaiting confirmation that the adoption has taken place.

RL said that he will arrange a meeting with Martin Brown from Worcestershire County Council in early July, to discuss the adoption of the roads on Pointers Way.

Action RL

2. B.R.A. alert system/crime & security:

Following the recent break-ins to cars and garages in several roads in Brockhill, JD suggested having an ‘alert system’ on our website. He also proposed creating a B.R.A. Facebook page for residents to discuss local matters of concern. JD and SC said that they would be able to monitor this, as they are Facebook members themselves and log in regularly. SC will arrange for a section to be added to the website and JD will set up the Facebook page.

Action SC & JD

3. Neighbourhood Watch/ PACT venue:

We are still waiting to hear from our Neighbourhood Police Team as to where and when PACT meetings could be held. PH said that it was unlikely that a local school would be willing to stay open for meetings, as attendance was very low when previous meetings were arranged at Birchensale Middle School.

The consensus of the meeting was that the setting up of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme would not be worth pursuing.  

4. Illegal fishing in Brockhill Park/Wetlands:

In the evening a few weeks ago, resident dog walkers witnessed some fishermen in Brockhill Park (the Wetlands) enticing the swans to move by feeding them bread, thus enabling them to fish. In previous years swans have been injured, or worse, by fishing tackle. The swans think that the fishermen are throwing them food when they are really casting their lines. If swallowed, the tackle can tear their insides. We are extremely concerned for the safety of the seven cygnets as well as their parents. JV has arranged to meet with the Place Team Supervisor from Bromsgrove and Redditch Borough Council, who is in charge of parks and open spaces, next Tuesday June 30th to discuss the positioning of some ‘NO FISHING’ signs around the Wetlands. Jackie Boreham from RBC Parks and Open Spaces has confirmed that unfortunately they do not have the powers to enforce penalties.

5. Traffic calming or crossing on Salters Lane from Brockhill Park to Oak Tree Lane:

We are concerned for children and older residents crossing over Salters Lane on their way to the shops and bus stop etc. Traffic appears so quickly around the bend from the Lily Green Lane end that, as a minimum, a warning crossing sign needs to be erected. RL said that since a similar sign had been erected further up Salters Lane, near to Beech Tree Close, there have been fewer accidents. RL said that to have an actual crossing would cost too much.

Action RL

6. Update on the progress of the new path to be constructed at the Lily Green Lane traffic island:

RL said that the Highways Department have agreed to construct a path, at one of the sides of Lily Green Lane traffic island, to enable residents to cross more safely. He said that they hadn’t decided on which side to build it yet, but that it had been approved and should be done by the end of the year. JV suggested that the wider side on the left, when coming from Brockhill Drive, would be the better side, as it is wider and most people cross at this side.

7. New sign for Brockhill at the Tardebigge/Bromsgrove Highway end of Brockhill Drive:

The road sign at the Bromsgrove Highway end of Brockhill Drive currently shows only the name of Batchley. We had previously asked RL if he could arrange to have it changed to include Brockhill, as it can be confusing for the visitors of residents when trying to find their relatives’/friends’ new houses. RL said that the new sign showing both Batchley and Brockhill is ready and will be installed shortly.

8. Lost Pets space on our website:

We discussed creating a ‘Lost Pets’ section on our website for use by members. It was felt that this would be beneficial. Also a similar section could be included in our soon to be created Facebook page. It was felt that some members were more likely to visit Facebook than the website, and hence coverage would be increased.

Action SC

9. Litter Pick date:

We decided to postpone the Litter Pick until autumn, when the vegetation will have started to die down and litter will be more visible. PH recommended our contacting HM Prison Hewell as they were keen to forge links with local communities. It might be possible for them to supply a few inmates to help with this and other projects we may undertake in the future.  

10. Naming of ‘open spaces’:

JD had suggested that we hold a competition for naming the various ’open spaces’ around Brockhill. Once named it would make it easier when referring to areas of concern. It will also get members more involved and create a pride in our countryside. We will distribute entry forms to our members once they have been designed. JD is in contact with a designer who he hopes will help with this.

Action JD

11. New Membership Leaflets:

We hope these will be ready shortly and will arrange to have them delivered within the local newspapers or by hand to those on Pointers Way, since they currently do not receive the Standard or Advertiser.

Action AP

12. A.O.B.

RL agreed to pursue Persimmon Homes regarding their funding of a community notice board for the Pointers Way development site.

Action RL

As previously pointed out the new path, leading from Brockhill Lane up to the Nature Reserve, needs an improved more absorbent surface at the top of the steps as it gets very slippery when wet and muddy. Also the sides at the bottom of the new gate need to be blocked off with chicken wire or the like to prevent young children and dogs from falling down the steep slope on to Brockhill Lane.  

JD also pointed out that the post and fence next to the 5 bar entrance gate into the nature area from Plumstead Close had become loose and were currently held up by cable ties. JD agreed to send PH photographs of both entrances to assist in her progressing these matters.

Action JD & PH 

We are still waiting for a waste bin to be placed on the walkway adjacent to Greenford Close. SC agreed to send PH a photograph depicting where the bin should be situated.  

Action SC & PH

JD told us that three black bin liners full of rubbish that had been dumped in the culvert running alongside the pathway that leads from Brockhill Lane to opposite the postbox in Carthorse Lane. The balancing pond into which the water flows has all but dried up, leaving the birdlife stranded in mud and moss. It is not known if the dumping of rubbish in the culvert is the sole cause of the pond’s drying up, but it must exacerbate the situation. The cause should be investigated. JD will send PH a photograph of the location of the bin liners.    

Action JD &PH

The ‘NO THROUGH ROAD’ sign, requested by residents in Marchwood Close, has been granted funding by the Highways Department and should be erected shortly.

PH encouraged everybody to view her Facebook page, “Pattie Hill for Batchley and Brockhill”. She also recommended our registering on “Streetlife”, a social network for local communities.

The ‘Walks Around Brockhill’ leaflets are in the pipeline. One of JD’s neighbours is a designer whom he hopes to recruit to assist with this task.

The meeting ended at 9.50 p.m.

Brockhill Residents’ Association AGM held at The Batchley Community Centre on Monday 11th May 2015

Agenda

1.     Introductions

2.     Agree  minutes of previous year’s AGM

3.     Treasurer’s report

4.     Report on year’s achievements

5.     Executive committee elections

6.     Future objectives

7.     A.O.B.

The Committee in attendance:-

James Doble                        JD

David Dallaway                                    DD

Lynn Dallaway                    LD

Sylvia Collinson                                    SC

Julie Vincent                        JV

Tish Greenway                    TG

Apologies received from members Angie Preece, Paul Kimberley and Lorayne Kimberley.

1.     INTRODUCTIONS:

The Committee Members introduced themselves to the eleven members present, who also included WCC Robin Lunn, CC Pattie Hill and CC Natalie Brookes.  JD had agreed to be Spokesperson for the evening and he explained that our Chairman had resigned at the last AGM and that we were still looking to replace him.  Our Membership Secretary had also resigned at the last AGM.

2.     AGREE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS YEAR’S AGM:

The minutes from last year’s AGM were read out by JD and agreed.  Due to a change in websites half way through the year, these minutes were not currently able to be viewed.  This oversight would now be rectified.

3.     TREASURER’S REPORT:

Committee Treasurer, Sylvia Collinson, gave her account of the fund activities, which were also printed out for members to examine.  A copy of the accounts is posted on the website.

4.     REPORT ON YEAR’S ACHIEVEMENTS:

DD highlighted the main achievements since the last AGM:-

·       New website – thanks to Jules Collinson for creating and running.

·       Adoption of roads – thanks to Robin Lunn for his considerable work on this.  Robin confirmed that, excluding Pointers Way, the only two roads not yet adopted were Turnpike Lane and Wheatcroft Close.  The process for these last two should be completed in the next couple of weeks.

·       Two community notice boards kindly funded by RBC and WCC (Robin’s discretionary fund).

·       Improvement of Sainsbury’s traffic island road markings.

·       New steps and gated entrance off Brockhill Lane into the nature reserve plus the installation of dog mess bins – thanks to Pattie Hill for her efforts in this area.

·       New road signs for Brockhill at the Tardebigge end of Brockhill Drive.

·       Quiz Night in October raised £165 for association funds – thanks to sponsorship/donations from JGS Autos, Tesco, Morrisons, Wilkinson, Robin’s Bike Den, Winyates Chippy and various committee members.

·       Scheduled hedge trimming at the Butler’s Hill Lane traffic island.

5.     EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ELECTIONS:

David Dallaway, Lynn Dallaway and Brenda Quinney stood down (as required by the Constitution).  Members were asked if they would like to stand for election, but nobody volunteered.  David Dallaway, Lynn Dallaway, James Doble and Angie Preece stood for election. They were proposed by Robin Dennis and seconded by Douglas Norris.  Angie Preece will be taking over the Events Secretary role.

6.     FUTURE OBJECTIVES:

JD outlined some of the coming year’s objectives:-

·       Increase committee and association membership – invitation leaflets to be distributed via local newspaper and door-to-door posting for Pointers Way residents.

·       A third community notice board to be sited on the Pointers Way Development.

·       Litter pick.

·       Further Quiz Nights.

·       Production of local walking leaflets/maps.

·       Competition to be held in which residents will be asked to propose names for the open spaces around Brockhill.

·       Continued pressure to ensure the early installation of Superfast Broadband – thanks to Peter Merricks for his work to date in this area.

·       Pathway to be provided at Brockhill Drive/Lily Green Lane traffic island.

7.     A.O.B.

Douglas Norris raised the problem with the junction at Butlers Hill Lane/Brockhill Lane not being wide enough for the increasing traffic.  He said that there is room for the roads to be widened which would help resolve the problem.  Robin Lunn said that he would look into this matter for us.

JD expressed his concern about the speed some drivers approached this junction.  He was aware of at least four cats being killed on this stretch of road in the last year.  Pattie Hill said all road kills should be reported to the PCSO’s in order that appropriate measures could be considered.

Anne Norris voiced her concerns about dogs that were being walked around Brockhill Park/ Wetlands, without being on a lead.  Many people like to let their dogs off their leads when they reach the park, so that they can have a run around.  However there have been many instances, she said, where dogs have become aggressive and because they are not on a lead, their owners have no control over them.  Anne has a small dog herself that has been confronted by an aggressive dog.  Also the swans, currently nesting, are very vulnerable.  There have been several incidents where aggressive dogs that are not on leads, have confronted the swans.  Pattie Hill said that she has several people watching over the swans, but of course, they cannot be on guard constantly.  JD suggested that we create a Pet Watch Section on our Website, where members can report any incidents relating to this.

Matt Collinson enquired about the section 106 monies that had been spent in areas outside Brockhill, such as The Abbey Stadium.  Pattie Hill, Robin Lunn and JD all confirmed that unfortunately this was “fait accompli” and was not illegal as it could be argued that Brockhill residents benefited from improvements to surrounding areas. However it was important we should ensure 106 monies arising from the Pointers way development were spent entirely in the Brockhill area.

As members are aware, we have been trying to get our own Community Hall so that we can arrange our meetings in Brockhill, instead of Tardebigge or Batchley.  There are plans, not yet passed by RBC, to build a school on the Pointers Way site.  If it is built, we are hoping that we will be able to use one of its rooms for our meetings. Pattie Hill said that Persimmon had provided Callow Hill residents with a room for their meetings in one of their Marketing Suites, when their houses were built.  There may be a possibility of Persimmon doing the same for us when Pointers Way is completed.  SC said that on the existing plans, the school would be built at the top of a hill thus causing difficulties for mothers with pushchairs.  It is likely that parents and guardians would be more likely to drive than walk to school and this would cause a parking problem for residents.

SC asked Pattie if she knew why the local paper wasn’t delivered to the houses on the Pointers Way estate.  SC had herself been told by the Newspaper that there weren’t enough telephone numbers registered on the estate to warrant the paper being delivered, even though most of the houses are now occupied.  Pattie said it was more likely that they couldn’t get anyone to deliver them.  DD pointed out that Angie Preece was related to the Bullivants and we were attempting to gain more information on the matter from that route.

Douglas Norris raised his concerns regarding Marchwood Close having traffic problems, as drivers think it is a through road.  He asked if signs saying ‘No Through Road’ could be erected to stop unnecessary access by traffic that then has to turn around in what should be a quiet close. Robin Lunn said he would look into the possibility of this.

Robin Dennis enquired whether we should charge an annual membership fee.  DD responded that this had been muted when the association had first been set up.  However we need to attract as many members as possible and free membership should help this.  To be able to finance this, it is very important that as many members as possible attend our quiz nights and any other fund raising events.

Pattie Hill read out a long list of forthcoming events and activities in the Redditch area that might be of interest to Brockhill residents.

The meeting ended at 8.45 p.m.

BROCKHILL RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
Minutes of Meeting Monday November 10th 2014

Those Present:
David Dallaway​​​DD
Lynn Dallaway​​​LD
Sylvia Collinson​​​SC
Julie Vincent​​​JV
James Doble​​​JD
Tish Greenway​​​TG
Guests in attendance: – WCC Robin Lunn and WCC & RBC Pattie Hill

Apologies from Angela Preece

The Agenda:

1. Roads Adoption Update
2. Litter Bin needed in Greenford Close
3. Reported problem with the new Nature Reserve Gate
4. Quiz Night: Confirmation of Profit
5. Bike Auction
6. New Membership Leaflets
7. Our Objectives – Long and Short term
8. A.O.B.

1. Roads Adoption Update:
Rosedale Close and Salters Lane were adopted on November 4th. RL has spoken to Dave Pilchard, of WCC Highways Department, for an update on the outstanding work required before Turnpike Lane and Wheatcroft Close can be adopted. These two roads are in the final stages of completion and are the last two to be adopted in Brockhill West.
An Association member reported that he believed a cul-de-sac running off Greenford Close had not been adopted. He also believed several similar areas were to be found within adopted areas on the estate. Investigations by RL had revealed that these ‘unadopted’ areas were in fact private driveways and not, therefore, part of the adoption process. These driveways were part of house owners’ property and were not the responsibility of RBC. RL has communicated these facts to the member in question.
RL has a meeting on Wednesday November 12th with the Highways Officer, to discuss concerns from members of the public in Salters Lane about the lack of a path opposite Beechwood Close. The matter is made worse by a culvert in the road and an area of raised bushes. RL said that the cost of removing the bushes would be more than having a crossing installed. He will be discussing the creation of a crossing near to the park entrance as this is an area where children, sometimes on bicycles, cross over Salters Lane to go to the play area in Oak Tree Lane.
A new road sign has been installed on the right hand side of Butler’s Hill Lane as you access it from the main roundabout. Unfortunately the sign reads, “Butlers Lane” missing both the apostrophe and Hill. PH agreed to investigate.

2. Litter Bin needed in Greenford Close:
An Association member from Greenford Close has reported large amounts of litter being dropped on the footpath, used by local school children, at the bottom of this road. He has suggested that it would be a good location for a litter bin. PH said that she would look into having one installed.

3. Reported Problem with the New Nature Reserve Gate:
Several members have reported that at the top of the steps near to the kissing gate, the ground is very slippery after all the recent rainfall. Also an additional step is needed at the bottom of the staircase as the gap is too steep when reaching the lane. PH said that she was already aware of the problems. She had contacted Matthew Mead, Senior Engineering Technician for Redditch Borough Council, regarding the placement of some extra non-slip material by the kissing gate and the building of an extra step at the bottom of the staircase. PH was also asked whether chicken wire could be installed around the bottom of the kissing gate to prevent young children and dogs from running out of the field and down the steps.

4. Quiz Night – Confirmation of Profit:
We are pleased to report that the Quiz Night on October 18th was a great success, despite the slightly disappointing attendance of only eight teams. As previously it was held at the Tardebigge Community Hall and members, together with their friends and families, enjoyed the provision of a licensed bar and snacks. A profit of £165 was made aided by the Quiz Master, Wayne Preece, providing his services free of charge and raffle donations from J.G.S. Autos, Tesco, Morrisons, Wilkinson, Robin’s Bike Den, Winyates Chippy and various members.

5. Bike Auction:
We are holding an auction of a brand new child’s bike, generously donated by one of our members. The donor, Robin Dennis of Robin’s Bike Den, will conduct the auction with bids being accepted up to midnight on November 30th. Members will be able to view a picture of the bike on our website and a poster, advertising the auction, will be posted on the two Community Notice Boards. If desired before bidding, viewing of the actual bike can be arranged by contacting JV. The proceeds will go towards the running costs of the Association.

6. New Membership Leaflets:
We are aiming to re-design our Membership Leaflets and have them printed and delivered, the costs of which should be covered by the Quiz Night’s profit. It is hoped the new design will encourage more members to join, particularly as the distribution area will also cover the new Pointers Way estate.

7. Our Objectives – Long and Short Term:
One of our main aims, as we approach the New Year, is to increase the membership of the Association. We hope to bring the community together for local walks, an ideal way of getting to know one’s neighbours and familiarising oneself with the surrounding area on foot. In the New Year we will produce some local walking leaflets/maps to display on our website and notice boards. When future organised walks are arranged, details of meeting times and venues would also be advertised.
We are in the process of arranging a Litter Pick Spring Clean for next year.
Further Quiz Nights will be organised in the New Year and possibly, a ‘Summer Family Fun Day’, if a suitable venue can be found together with more members to help with its organisation.
The key short and long term objectives of the Association will be discussed and agreed at the next committee meeting.
8. A.O.B
DD and LD had attempted to attend the last Batchley & Brockhill PACT meeting at Birchensale School on October 2nd, only to discover it had been cancelled. PH was asked if any progress had been made in finding a new venue for future PACT meetings. She said unfortunately not and that another problem existed regarding the availability of a Police Officer to attend. The poor attendance by residents at previous meetings means that the whole issue is deemed of not high priority.
JD told us that he had walked around the new Pointers Way estate and noticed that there are two paths which end abruptly, and lead nowhere! He asked RL and PH if they could look into this.
PH advised that a Charity Quiz Night is being held at the Town Hall on Friday November 28th in the large Chamber. The proceeds are to go towards a new robot machine needed at the Alexander Hospital. We are hoping to send a team of members to support this extremely worthwhile cause. Please contact us if you would like to join us.
The meeting ended at 9.50p.m.

minutes for sept

august 2014