SPRA minutes 23/02/2004

Minutes of the SPRA committee meeting held Monday 23^rd February 2004 at 23 Stockwell Park Crescent

Present

Anthony Gladstone-Thompson, Liz Aves, Simon Doff, Caroline Hirst, David Tomlinson, Nicholas Brown, Amanda Cornish.

Apologies

Martin Kenyon

Planning and environment

David Tomlinson and Nicholas Brown informed the committee about the proposed development of one and two bedroom flats (7 flats in all) at 11-15 Stockwell Park Crescent, bought at auction.

Developers: Lexidon Ltd.

Architects: Libero.

David Tomlinson and the Browns had an informal meeting with the architect at which the following modifications were discussed and well-received:

Reduce height of the planned new extension at the back from 3 to 2 storeys.
Remove the first floor terrace at the back so that gardens are not overlooked.
Install windows with glazing bars in keeping with the period.
Improve (glazing bars etc.) any offending existing windows.

Generally speaking, with some modification, the development seems acceptable although only the Tomlinsons and Browns appear to have been consulted so far.

Additional information

Nicholas Brown pointed out that, in 1971, Conservation Area regulations prevented him from building a 2 storey extension to their house (next door to new development). How is it that 3 storey extensions now seem to be allowed? Have Conservation Area
regulations been relaxed?

Parking

Only the two-bedroom flat owners will be able buy parking permits; the owners of the one-bedroom flats will be unable to own cars. David asked the architect to consider building two bedroom flats only (rather than a mixture of one and two bedrooms) so as to enable young families to settle here.

In partnership with the Council, the developers are prepared to fund the installation of a permanent cctv camera to safeguard new owners' cars.

Action

Simon Doff will ask local architect Simon Henley to look at the plans. (already done)
Anthony will ask the Council for an extension to the closing date for objections/comments on the grounds of failure to consult widely enough (not even the Residents' Association has received notification). (already done)

The Unite Building

Proposals withdrawn and site up for sale.

Lighting Meeting (Lorn Road)

Congratulations to Simon Doff. New lanterns are to be installed in Lorn Road.

New, brighter bulbs already in St. Michael's, St Martin's and Burnley Roads.

Christmas Party

Success for children. Weak turn out of adults.

What about a drink after carol concert next year (instead of adult Christmas Party)?

AGM 20^th May, Summer Festival 18^th - 20^th June 2004

To be discussed at next meeting.

Neighbourhood Watch

Charles Miskin has expressed interest in being involved with Neighbourhood Watch. Gill Wayne to contact him.

Liz Aves will be away on and off for 2 months. She will do what she can, with help from Darius, Jenni and everybody, to get a Newsletter together ready for distribution by 1^st May 2004, publicising the AGM on 20^th May.