PB commenced with a report on his correspondence with the Council regarding the lack of meaningful consultation and information relating to the closure of the library. Councillor Trimble had replied directly, but said that prior commitments meant he was unable to accept the invitation to attend the meeting himself. The new library is now open (official date is on Saturday), and this subject is now closed.

  Both the Pharmacy and the Spar store have now said that they hope to be trading before Christmas.

  Early fireworks were a problem in some parts of the estate, but this is partly due to Divali celebrations. Police have dedicated a patrol car to control the situation, but only one vehicle is available to cover the Northern area of the City. It was thought that there was some inaccuracy in the Evening Posts reporting of crime statistics and this will be checked out. Luke Parfitt will shortly become our new PCSO - replacing Kev Roberts.

  Sue Fletcher, Community Cohesion Officer, attended as a guest and explained her role to act as support for Community Groups, alongside Celia Knight. Funding can be allocated, and it was suggested that help might be available for certain RPAG costs if an application was submitted. PB was not in favour at the present time, and preferred to maintain full independence of the group.

  Meeting was advised that consultations had already commenced with immediate neighbours re the development at Top Valley School (See Schools Page), and next meeting is on 3^rd November for a wider participation with other groups.

  LAG is making £500 available to brighten up / improve security of the area and main idea is that Spring bulbs might be planted. Residents asked to contact PB with suggestions for suitable locations. Another suggestion was that some of the money might be used to ‘decorate’ the concrete blocks at the Kwik Save car park – or to investigate whether these could be replaced with bollards.

  Another ‘eyesore’ is the continuous fly tipping in that area but the problem for the Council remains – this is private property and Statutory Notice periods have to be observed before they can take action. It was suggested that one of the shop owners had managed to circumnavigate this and PB will make an approach to him to find out more. Meantime, it was thought that bombarding the Letting Agents with complaints might have some effect – as exact ownership of the land has still not been established. Telephone Mason Owen at 0151 242 3000 and Tushingham at 0161 833 1197.

  The Community Association advised that work was shortly to go ahead to provide wheelchair access and new front door for the building and also hot water in both of the toilets. The external cladding idea is still under consideration. Interior of the building is responsibility of the Association, but redecoration would commence when the other work was completed. Concerns about the possible integration within the new school buildings were expressed.

  The ‘Sixties Disco’ is on 21^st Nov at 7.30pm and some tickets are still available from PB at £4.50. Aim is to raise funds in support of the Community Association who allow use of the building at no cost to RPAG.

  Concern was again voiced regarding speeding motorists near to the school and it was felt that the long hours that the 20mph signs remained lit (not confined to starting and leaving times) meant that motorists might have lost respect for them. There had also been no improvement in the situation for ‘right turners’ from Brownlow Drive on to the main road. As there were many potential problems in the way of improvements, it was agreed that someone from Traffic Management or Highways Departments should be asked whether they could participate in the next meeting

The Groups' serious concerns about the imminent closure of Top Valley Library have been expressed in writing to the City Council, especially what is seen as a lack of proper consultation before the decision was taken. PB is totally dissatisfied with the (delegated) reply received (letter read out to the meeting) and is to continue the correspondence, with a request for a personal attendance at the next RPAG meeting
The mobile library is now operating, and Top Valley library is due to close by the end of September.

Concerns were expressed about the lack of attention, funding and expenditure on the Community Centre building (as compared to other similar projects in the area, and the rest of the City). Lack of appropriate hot /cold water supply in the toilets and no disabled toilet facilities were cited as examples. Deficiencies were brought to the Councils attention at a recent meeting / survey of the building. Alan Clarke and CK will track progress – and report back. But it is feared that this could possibly be the next amenity to be withdrawn in the name of ‘necessary cut - backs’ by the City Council. Celia Knight agreed to try to ascertain the proportion of other similarly run down centres in the City.

Mini Moto’s continue to be a problem, and it was again re iterated that every incident should continue to be reported to the Police (9670 999) or the Anti Social Behaviour hot line. Observation forms are being issued to all homes in the Top Valley / Ridgeway areas and information from these reports can be collated to try to track down the source of the problems. The police motor cycle team have allocated 12 days to this area, 5 of which have already been used. Information from the public is therefore essential in order to make best use of the remainder.

The Group (PB) has also written to Tesco asking them to clarify their policy on the sales of petrol to anyone who does not appear to have a legitimate purpose. No reply has been received and it was agreed that the matter should be pursued with them, highlighting the matter of social responsibility.

The Community Association has had a drive to increase membership (which is necessary for anyone wishing to have voting rights in connection with their affairs). 30 new members were obtained. Cost is a nominal 10p !!  Apply to the Association if you wish to sign up. Anyone wishing to join a proposed Gardening Club is also invited to contact the Association.

PB and Dr Patrick attended a meeting and spoke in support of the application by Knights Pharmacy for a move to the precinct. Strong opposition is still being maintained by another pharmacy, and the outcome of the appeal may not be known for another four to six weeks. There was unanimous support for the application, including that of local Councillors.

Progress on conversion work at the Charles II has slowed, and it is proving difficult to obtain any firm information about the development. But it is thought that there are some problems relating to Building Regulations at the present time. Nevertheless, an application has been submitted for a drinks licence, and it was agreed that there will be no opposition to this from RPAG. Especially in light of details given regarding proposed controls to avoid problems. However, the situation will be monitored should the proposed Spar open.

The new skateboard / BMX park at Southglade has received a good press (including Nationals), and CK felt that it was proving to be a great success (with users participating in keeping the facility in good shape). Though there were some minor teething problems that needed ongoing attention.

Details were given about various cash projects that are available for Community projects and free training scheme for anyone wishing to set up youth schemes. Nottingham Arrow or Council web site has information.

Appreciation was expressed for the dedication and conscientiousness of our local street cleaner (not sure what his “politically correct” title is!), Alf Peachey, and there was universal approval for the idea that residents consider nominating him for Councils ‘Proud of You’ Award for his services. It is understood that he is due to retire in March next year. Can vote online at Council web site.

As it was felt that much attention was given to the needs of youngsters, it was proposed that something might be done for folk in the more elderly group. It was therefore agreed that there should be a Social Evening with a 1960’s theme and with music, dance, buffet, raffle, quiz etc. This has been provisionally arranged for 21^st November. Ticket price fixed at £4.50 (£2.50 for children). (Some conflict here ? Ed)
But it needs a minimum of sixty to attend and all to be confirmed to Paul Bakajsa – and money received – by the date of next meeting. All proceeds to be donated to the Community Association funds in recognition of them allowing use of the hall for RPAG meetings.

There remains a demand for a Pharmacy on the estate and a petition was passed round, and probably signed by most people present, in support of the new application that is being made by Knights Pharmacy. The application has the full support of Councillors and the Group.

Latest available information on the Charles II development is that the developer hopes to complete work by July, and that interest has been shown by two possible tenants for use as a convenience store. PB is to make further contact to see whether any more specific details can be obtained.

A Litter Pick had just been done on our end of the Hucknall Walkway .

Some planting had been undertaken on the precinct roundabout. Any gaps left here were explained as being due to the fact that these areas were subject to damage from road salting in winter and the need to find salt resistant plants.

Owners of the old Kwiksave had been made aware of the fact that children had now turned the roof of the building into a playground and skateboard park. Police were also aware of this.

  Some residents had been using the 999 service to report Mini Moto nuisance, but it was said that this was inappropriate and that the number to ring is 9670 999

  As there were no nominations for new committee members, the existing officers were all re appointed – though there remains a vacancy for another ‘minute taker’, this now being open to volunteers. The Chairman re affirmed that the Group is run on an entirely voluntary basis, the Treasurers position being purely nominal.

  It was confirmed that the application for a Pharmacy on the estate had been blocked, yet again, but it is likely that a further application will be made in revised format – though the timescale is not known. The applications have the full support of Councillors and the Group.

Council Representative confirmed that 3 or 4 planters will be available as part of the Nottingham in Bloom effort, and these will be sited in the Precinct area. A choice of three different colour schemes was circulated and attendees were invited to express their preferences – results of the vote not being made known. Voluntary help would be welcome for planting of the containers.

The Community Notice Board has now been installed and keys provided for RPAG, the Community Association, Church and Police. It is the intention that space should be shared equally for the time being.

Details of a forthcoming Community Advice & Job Fair, and an event for people over 50, will shortly be posted to the board.

Work on the Convenience Store is progressing nicely, and there was a suggestion that the developer be invited to the next meeting, to inform about progress, opening date, times of opening etc. It is not known whether there will be an application for a liquor licence.

The approaching light nights may bring an increase in the Mini Moto nuisance and all residents are urged to report every incident to the local Beat Officer on 07738 459 639 with information regarding times, location etc. Alternative number is 0115 967 0 999. can call anonymously if required. Also let Paul B know, so that he can collate information and ensure that complaints have been followed up.

Work continues on the Skateboard Park at Glaisdale, but is behind schedule on account of the winter weather.

A stall at the recent Arts Group Craft Fair raised a useful amount of £45.36, which has been donated to the Community Association in recognition of the free use of the building for RPAG meetings.

Work on the new skateboard park at Southglade should start in January 2009, and be completed during March- the aim being to provide a communal facility for youngsters in all the surrounding areas.

Proposed notice board is still awaiting final planning consent re advertising, but should soon be finalised and installation will then go ahead.

Stanstead School are co operating with the Council, with a project involving the pupils, to progress the plans for replanting parts of the traffic island and this will go ahead as the seasons permit. There is an agreed allocation of plant containers for Summer 2009, and ideas were put forward as regards the siting of these. Hanging baskets are not an option due to Health & Safety considerations and there are limitations on the placing of railing mounted ones close to pedestrian crossings and schools. Free standing containers are therefore the most likely and may be concentrated in the shopping areas..

Much time was spent on discussion of matters relating to the precinct and there seemed to be universal acceptance of the plan to convert the Charles II into a convenience store. Residents wishing to express support are able to do so by visiting the Councils own web site, which has details of the Planning Application. (A link is provided on the Local Shopping page of this web site)

Although there has been a setback to the plans for a pharmacy to move into the precinct, it is understood that they are to make a revised application and the Councillors seemed optimistic that this would proceed. Once again, there was a majority in favour of having a chemist on the estate, though a couple of people expressed concerns.

Nothing was known about the future of the old Kwiksave premises, which remain up for sale. There was some demand for the owners to be reminded of the need to keep the area tidy, especially as regards the concrete barriers on Brownlow. But it was unclear who had placed these, and who was responsible for them. It was generally agreed that they had to remain, being the ‘lesser of two evils’, having been put in place after the last exodus of the ‘travellers’. Labour Councillor promised to make further enquiries.

It was also suggested that the whole estate might be leafleted for ideas on what can be done with the area, should it come available for redevelopment. One idea discussed was for sheltered housing / warden aided accommodation for elderly persons, but there was general opposition to any standard housing development. 

RPAG reps will attend the next meeting of the Local Area Group, which looks at issues affecting the wider geographical area – to ensure that our own interests are not overlooked.

Serious concerns were expressed at the apparent lack of action by the police following a report of a vehicle having been set alight on the estate and answers are to sought on this matter.

Guest speakers from the Primary Care Trust outlined plans for three new Health Centres in the City, Aspley and Bestwood areas. The locations have still to be decided, but the City one will be a “walk in” centre that is more  accessible than the one near London Road . The Bestwood centre will require appointments to be made, but can be utilised by all residents in the area, without the need to transfer from our existing surgery.
The aim of the discussion was to allay any fears that the new Centres would act to the detriment of our existing surgery, and to stress that they are intended to improve services.
It was hoped that work on the Bestwood Centre would commence early in the next financial year, which starts in April 2009.

Unfortunately there was no attendance by our local Surgery, so it was not possible to obtain their views on the matter.

  PB gave details of his attendance / stand at the recent One Choice Event and felt that this had been very useful and productive. The event is organised by the City Council to provide  a platform for local organisations (25 in this instance) to meet amongst themselves and with the general public in order to find out “what’s going on” in the area and to disseminate information. The public are able to drop in at any time during the day to talk to the exhibitors.

Representative from the LAG (Local Action Group) outlined work that had been undertaken in matters such as the provision of transport for youngsters to the nearby BMX track, liaison with the Beat Officers re anti social behaviour in the Bakewell Drive & Knights Close areas. She also warned of a spate of ‘distraction burglaries’ taking place in the Bracadale / Cuillin Close areas, of which the police were now aware. It was felt imperative that all crimes, however minor they might appear, should be reported to the police in order to build up a full picture of any problems. Telephone 9670 999 for non urgent matters.

The next session of the One Stop group will be at 6.30pm t0 8.0pm on 13th November at the Top Valley Community Centre near Tesco. Members of the public can call in to discuss any problems with the police.

The Community Notice Board should be in place shortly, permission having been given by Martins for it to be located on the semi circle of grass fronting their shop, which belongs to them. Technicalities re planning permission have just to be finalised.

Some work has been done to tidy up the traffic island and it has been agreed that the Highways Agency will maintain the appearance of this on a more regular basis in the future.

Regeneration of the area was discussed, and it was suggested that residents need to put forward ideas for what they would like to see done, particularly in the shops precinct area. Not just those attending the meetings, but also the majority of residents who do not attend.
It is likely that this will form part of the next agenda, when ideas can be put forward and discussed.

AC concluded the meeting by saying that Knights Close Pharmacy were wishing to transfer to Rise Park, but he had no information about the proposed location – and there is an objection from one of the other pharmacies in the area which has to be considered by the professional body concerned. This is not, therefore, a foregone conclusion, but appeared to be met with universal approval !!

Next meeting is on 11th December at 7.30pm

The new Beat Manager reported some success in relation to the continuing mini moto problem, in that nine had been seized in a recent four day campaign and another one in a subsequent effort. It was not known how many had been subsequently returned. Problem has quietened down fttb, but residents can report any recurrence on the Anti Social Behaviour line 915 2020.

Some new planting has commenced on the traffic island, with assistance of some volunteers from the estate. More to be done in the autumn.

A suitable site has been identified for the proposed Community Notice Board, but permission has to be sought from the owner of the plot, and this is in progress.

Still no solution regarding lighting on footpath adjacent to the schools, as there are unresolved problems regarding maintenance and responsibility

A lengthy address was given by a guest speaker representing the Strategic Regeneration Fund, commissioned to advise and consult on plans for development of the North East area of the City. It soon became evident that Rise Park was likely to low down in the ‘scheme of things’, with most concentration on the Bestwood, Top Valley and Bulwell areas – and Beckhampton Drive being suggested as the central hub for any development.

The subsequent discussions were therefore immediately directed to what was needed in this area. Main points were to ensure the improvement and re generation of the Shopping area, the heart of the estate, with the right type of shops and facilities. Much demand for a food store and chemist, as two examples.  Possibly the provision of the right sort of buildings needed here?

Also for the provision of more play areas and facilities for youngsters – in addition to the recently improved playground.

There was no support for the suggestion that any housing for rent should be built, bearing in mind that the estate is currently comprised of privately owned houses, and should remain so. Any such plans would be very clearly opposed in the future.

The future of the Doctors Surgery was of some concern, bearing in mind the development of  Polyclinics and Health Centres, and has been the subject of ‘behind the scenes’ enquiries. It is understood that Graham Allen has indicated that there are no such plans for this area, but it was agreed that the Primary Care Trust should be invited to address the next meeting to allay any fears – or otherwise!

The survey conducted by Gerry Davie (Conservative), of the whole estate, clearly indicated that there was no wish to see an open market, and this was also firmly endorsed by the Action Group meeting. GD also agreed that there was an error/misunderstanding in his last Newsletter which indicated that the Group was in favour of the market idea. The Group had merely reacted favourably to the idea of a public consultation on the matter.

  Some items to be carried forward to the next meeting on 30th October

John Simpson, senior parks officer from Woodthorpe Grange, outlined plans for improvements to planting on the Traffic island. It is hoped to involve the school once again – in design, ‘sponsorship requests’, planting etc. Will consider incorporating a sign to indicate the Schools involvement. Planting cannot take place until the appropriate autumn period, but it is hoped to see an improved display for next spring / summer. The meeting welcomed his ideas and agreed to the proposals.

  Funding is now available for a Community Notice Board and there is to be an ‘on the spot’ meeting to with Council to consider suitable locations. This has to take account of the complex land ownership situation. Bus shelters might provide a suitable base, to be investigated. Suggestions for key holders were also put forward, and agreed in principal e.g. RPAG, Police and Community Association. Also need to consider what can, and cannot, be displayed.

  Lighting of the library pathway continues to be a difficult problem on account of ownership/responsibility issues. EC will arrange for the Rights of Way officer to make a visit to see what progress can be made. Alley is one of those not yet ‘adopted’ by the Council.

  It is now believed that the Kwik Save building is “under offer”, though not yet established by whom. Believed to be a retailer, though some suggestion that it may be a property developer. EC confirmed that no planning application has been received for housing development.

  Charles II is on the market and some interest shown. It is hoped that sale can be concluded within the next two or three months. Premises being sold as ‘de licensed’, and any development here would be limited by the fact that the building forms part of the parade of shops. Details of the interested party also not known.

  A clause in the lease specifies that the Club shall not “prevent nor seek to prevent or restrict free access over open parts of the Property by the general public”.

  The notice warning the public not to cross the golf course will probably need removal or amendment, but it is known that the Ramblers Association also have this matter under consideration – and have already had meetings with the appropriate Council department.

  (Ed. Any confirmed information on this aspect would be welcome)..
 

The meeting was informed of the two days of proceedings relating to the application for a licensing extension by Martins. This was being opposed by the Group on account of problems arising in the area when a previous shop was allowed to sell liquor into the late evening. The appeal against the extension was turned down, but it was agreed that any problems should me monitored and taken up with the shop, police or local authority if appropriate.

AC confirmed that letters had been issued to residents in the flats regarding the non use of the new parking bays on Bestwood Park Drive The situation seems to have been resolved, with the exception of one vehicle – and further efforts are under way in that respect.

An initial design proposal was circulated for an Action Group Letterhead and poster. These could possibly be adopted, subject to one small alteration, unless other designs are forthcoming.

A detailed presentation was given, with maps provided, to clarify the situation regarding the status / adoption of roads, footpaths and alleyways around the estate. This also included the results of a survey undertaken to assess the condition and cleanliness of the alleyways. AC agreed to request action where necessary. Dog fouling was felt to be a problem in some parts, and the Council were asked to supply/re fix notices to new lampposts – some original notices lost when these were replaced. (Editors note: It is just a small persistent minority of dog owners who give all a bad name, as the vast majority do clear up in a responsible manner!)

Lighting of the library path is subject to ongoing discussions with the school, little progress to report.

The question of public access to our local City Council park, Bulwell Common, was the subject of some serious concern and discussion. The area has always been open to public access, though shared with the golf club. But a new lease has handed the club the responsibility for maintenance of the area, and considerable investment seems to have resulted in a massive increase in the numbers of golfers using the course. This has made it unsafe to walk most of the area, and conflicts are increasingly arising between golfers and the public. It was made clear that the club must allow free access to the public car park, and must also recognise the public footpaths and rights of way. (Further clarification being undertaken on this aspect).
It also seems to be the case that there have already been breaches of the terms and condition in relation to recent developments on the football field side of the Common, and the Council are to take this up with management.

AC is also aware of the contentious wording of certain signs which may have been worded to give a wrong impression relating to right of access. (More information on the Bulwell Common page of this web site, and readers are invited to e mail the Action Group or this web site with any further relevant concerns or problems)

The traffic island (state of) was raised once again. AC agreed to approach the Parks Department and ask them to consider what might be done – possibly also to attend the next meeting with their ideas. Sponsorship was also to receive further consideration – but affordability might be a problem for the hoped for candidates, the shops.

 Lack of toilet facilities for bus drivers at the terminus was a subject that would be put to NCT for consideration, following one expression of concern about events!

Written confirmation had been received from Lidl to the effect that they had visited the Kwik Save site, but found it unsuitable for their purposes. It was understood that another retailer (details unknown) is showing some interest in taking over the premises.

GD wondered whether there might be some interest in having a small market (as in Bulwell) on the car parks but it was agreed that this presented several problems. The car parks are privately owned, toilet facilities are lacking, an organiser has to be found and setting up and clearing up would need to be dealt with. It was nevertheless agreed that the matter was worthy of consideration, and he is to give it some further attention to check the feasibility.

Thanks were offered to AC for his swift and effective action on the travellers’ encampment on the car parks.

Design work and costings are being undertaken in relation to the suggested provision of ironwork associated with alleyways. There was also some discussion in respect of the unattractiveness of the traffic island and the wish to see some colour in that spot. Also the bad impression of the estate which is now being created by the deteriorating state of the now closed public house, Kwik Save store – neither of which is likely to be reopened or improved whilst remaining in present ownership.

Approaches are to be made to see whether lighting can be improved on certain pathways and the car park, though it was not clear who was responsible for these.

A volunteer has undertaken the task of checking the condition and cleanliness of the alleyways (felt to be in a neglected state), and to report to the Council to see what action can be taken though, once again, the Councillors were not certain that these alleyways had been fully ‘adopted’ by the Council. Checks are to be made.

It was felt that the Groups meeting dates were not being fully publicised (not helped by the lack of a community notice board), and the Chairman took note, and agreed that more notices could be posted in the library, shops, surgeries etc.

It was suggested that a Logo and proper letterhead might be an advantage and a member of the Art Group agreed to see whether they could come up with a design.

Alan Clarke advised that the delays in finishing the Bestwood Park Drive improvements were outside the control of the Council, who were in the hands of E-On and their usual delays in getting electrical work completed (now at least six weeks away) for the new vehicle speed limit signs. Leaflets were being posted to encourage use of the new lay bys – which were currently being generally ignored for parking.

Martins are appealing against the limited hours on their new liquor off - licence, but the Action Group will continue to oppose any extension – and will present their case at the appeal meeting.

Dates of next meetings were agreed (see above), with an appeal for volunteers / nominations for committee members. A Secretary and Treasurer a particular requirement – neither of which post requiring a great deal of time (especially treasurer, as no monies are currently collected – all expenses borne privately by the Chairman and other members).