As a very new Twitter I often find myself twitching rather than tweeting as i try to puzzle out the internal workings of forgetting passwords, logging in and out and general management or is it mismanagement.
However, finally to get to grips with the technology I have pressed the reset button - but not before discovering that British Macs have no hash button. Thanks to Google searches I have found that alt 3 - thank you whom ever on the net for this advice - does the trick.
So #vogelphilipc is the new home for Twitter. It is destined to contain links and shorties and like this often quite random thoughts.
Wednesday 29 February 2012
Tuesday 28 February 2012
Last Call For Comments On Draft District Plan (published 28.02.12)
There are only a few days to go before the Draft Core Strategy consultation ends 2nd March 2012. Details at
http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15924
http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15924
Monday 27 February 2012
Fuel Poverty Awareness Day 2012
Teignbridge District Council is advertising Fuel Poverty Awareness Day 2012 at:
http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15855
Or go straight to the Cosy Devon web site at:
www.cosydevon.co.uk
http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15855
Or go straight to the Cosy Devon web site at:
www.cosydevon.co.uk
Friday 24 February 2012
Teignbridge District Council Budget 2012- 2013
The Teignbridge District Council Administration budget 2012 - 2013 was agreed today at Full Council by 29 votes in favour, 14 against and 1 abstention. The budget highlights are:
a- Band D Council Tax for 2012/13 be frozen at the current rate of £150.17 pa.
b- The general reserves be maintained at £1.3m which is 9.2% of the net budget for 2012/13.
c- That £100,00 of the general reserve balance in any one year continues to be available to the Executive to meet unexpected expenditure in addition to the agreed revenue budget.
d- To continue with the free Sunday parking scheme in local villages and towns for the whole of next year and for resorts to 31st March 2012 and again from 28th october 2012 to 31st March 2013.
e- Backing business including promoting tourism with a proposed infrastructure investment fund to deliver new jobs by supporting economic development and housing. The plan for this to have reached£1m by the end of next year.
f- Maintaining the funding of £52k for CAB and £37k for TCVS
g- Bringing power to the people by maintaining the Councillors' Community Fund at £69k - £1500 per Member.
h- A capital programme that supports housing as a top priority by maintaining investment at around £0.8m
i- Maintaining the £55k Rural Aid Fund.
Additionally the Executive will be looking at a New Homes Bonus Policy in their work stream.
a- Band D Council Tax for 2012/13 be frozen at the current rate of £150.17 pa.
b- The general reserves be maintained at £1.3m which is 9.2% of the net budget for 2012/13.
c- That £100,00 of the general reserve balance in any one year continues to be available to the Executive to meet unexpected expenditure in addition to the agreed revenue budget.
d- To continue with the free Sunday parking scheme in local villages and towns for the whole of next year and for resorts to 31st March 2012 and again from 28th october 2012 to 31st March 2013.
e- Backing business including promoting tourism with a proposed infrastructure investment fund to deliver new jobs by supporting economic development and housing. The plan for this to have reached£1m by the end of next year.
f- Maintaining the funding of £52k for CAB and £37k for TCVS
g- Bringing power to the people by maintaining the Councillors' Community Fund at £69k - £1500 per Member.
h- A capital programme that supports housing as a top priority by maintaining investment at around £0.8m
i- Maintaining the £55k Rural Aid Fund.
Additionally the Executive will be looking at a New Homes Bonus Policy in their work stream.
Monday 20 February 2012
Waiting for Weight loss
Just an idle thought about loosing weight, which many of us find as we get older is necessary, for all the medical complications that afflict us as we age.
It seemed to me that its quite easy to loose weight initially - more exercise, eat a little less of the 'extras' etc. until you reach a particular weight. It doesn't seem to matter what this is, it just is. So what next. You cut your hair, finger and toe nails, shower, step gingerly on the scales etc. etc. read the labels for the saturate fat, look for the calories reduced foods, but suddenly one meets one's nemesis. Nothing drops any further.
Its at that point the tough decisions have to be made .... and soon as I puzzle out what these are I'm sure I'll loose some more:)
It seemed to me that its quite easy to loose weight initially - more exercise, eat a little less of the 'extras' etc. until you reach a particular weight. It doesn't seem to matter what this is, it just is. So what next. You cut your hair, finger and toe nails, shower, step gingerly on the scales etc. etc. read the labels for the saturate fat, look for the calories reduced foods, but suddenly one meets one's nemesis. Nothing drops any further.
Its at that point the tough decisions have to be made .... and soon as I puzzle out what these are I'm sure I'll loose some more:)
Thursday 16 February 2012
Park Homes- DCLG Committee Inquiry into Park Homes
I reproduce below the Teignbridge District Council Press Release of the response to the DCLG Committee Inquiry into Park Homes - sorry its a little lengthy:
COUNCIL LOBBIES FOR POSITIVE CHANGES TO PARK HOME REGULATIONS
Teignbridge District Council has taken a stand for the rights of Park Home residents, lobbying for major changes to regulations and laws which affect Park Home sites in response to a Government inquiry about their management.
The district has 1154 Park Homes across 54 sites, one of the highest proportions of any district in the country. It has a lot of experience enforcing site conditions and improving conditions for residents, which under current laws can be time-consuming, expensive and ineffective. The council says key measures are missing, such as a full application process to be able to run sites, the ability to turn down site license applications, a range of enforcement options other than formal prosecution, tighter controls on the reselling of homes, better protection for tenants renting mobile homes, and measures to reduce fuel poverty.
Under current laws and subject to a current planning permission being in place, councils are unable to refuse a licence application to run a site. This means that even if an applicant has a previous conviction under the Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960, this cannot influence the decision to issue a licence. This is compounded by only being able to enforce license conditions about maintaining sites by prosecuting site owners. This means that minor breaches can go unchallenged, or if they are tackled it means a time-consuming and expensive court case. The council believes that in many instances the money spent by owners defending these prosecutions would be better spent doing the required work on their sites.
In its response to the Government, Teignbridge argues that a range of enforcement options, such as the ability to serve formal notices requiring work to be done, would be a better alternative. It also says that councils should be free to step in and manage sites directly if there are major problems, and calls for a single set of standards to apply across the country, ending differing site requirements across district borders. At the moment site owners who operate sites in different districts cite this inconsistency and confusion over the rules as a big contributing factor to things going wrong.
Cllr Philip Vogel, Teignbridge Executive Spokesperson for Housing and Planning said:
“Park Home residents can be among our more vulnerable citizens, often they are older people who might not have all the support they need to deal with site owners. It’s therefore unacceptable that the rules governing Park Homes are so inconsistent and lack the powers we need to make life better for residents.
“Our proposals would also benefit the majority of respectable site owners and managers who are often thwarted by changing goalposts across districts and a lack of formal guidance on legal, financial and health and safety issues. Good site owners should not feel that a few give them a bad name.
“Among other things we don’t think it’s fair that someone renting a mobile home isn’t covered by the Housing Act, when even house boats have been brought under the Act before. We’re also concerned that site owners can benefit from a high turnover of residents as they get sale commission on their homes, giving less scrupulous owners very little incentive to work with residents and help make things right when problems occur. On top of this, residents may be limited to using only bottled or liquid gas as their only source of fuel in rural areas, without any way of comparing costs and buying fuel in a competitive market, or taking advantage of any discounts or subsidy schemes.
“All in all we think the current system means a rough deal for residents, respectable site owners and councils alike. It wouldn’t be difficult to put a lot of this right, but we need the Government to sit up and take notice of these issues.”
Also in the council’s response is a call for a system which would let residents and potential residents compare different Park Home sites on a like-for-like basis to help them choose the right place for them. Such a system would include comparisons of things like ground rent, the number of prosecutions against the site and more, helping people make an informed choice.
Avril Knapman is the owner of Grange Park in Abbotskerswell, which has 6 park homes on the site.
Mrs Knapman said:
“I like to work with the council and my residents to make sure things are done professionally. It is a shame that a small minority of site owners give others a bad name. I would certainly support clearer rules for owners and would like to see a body like A.C.A.S set up to be legally binding on all parties in disputes, instead of the expensive and ineffective system of court action. This should protect peoples’ rights and homes and the work and cost of site owners to make a good site.”
The Communities and Local Government Committee announced its inquiry in December 2011, but has yet to confirm timeframes for considering responses and making recommendations.
ENDS
For media queries please contact Tim Borrett, Communications Officer on 01626 215164 or Tim.Borrett@teignbridge.gov.uk.
Notes to Editors
1) About Park Homes: Park homes are residential mobile homes, some resembling bungalows and others closer to traditional caravans. Currently there are about 250,000 people living in park homes on more than 1700 sites in England and Wales. Park homes can be bought at relatively low prices. Although residents usually buy their Park Home, they have to pay the site owner a rent for the pitch on which the home is installed and for maintenance of the communal areas of the site.
2) Teignbridge District Council’s response to the Government inquiry follows in full:
Response to the Communities and Local Government Committees inquiry into park homes.
The committee is considering the adequacy of the current legislation as it affects park home owners, site operators and local authorities. The committee has suggested a number of areas that respondents may wish to comment on:
site fees;
the awarding and revocation of site licences
the regulation and enforcement of site license conditions;
the need for the manager of a site to be a “fit and proper” person and the enforcement of this requirement;
the regulation of parks owned by local authorities;
the protection of occupiers of park homes against harassment and illegal eviction; and
resale of park homes and resale fees.
This response relates to those areas which are of concern to residents of park homes within Teignbridge.
Awarding and revocation of site licences
Currently on application to the local authority, subject to a current planning permission being in place the Local Authority is unable to refuse a licence application. Therefore if an applicant has a previous conviction under the Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960 this cannot influence the decision to issue a licence. Therefore a fit and proper test with objective assessment criteria similar to those seen with the licensing of houses in multiple occupation would allow the local authority more scope to consider the suitability of the applicant. Information that would assist the local authority in assessing applications could include:
· Details of all interested parties in the business
· Address of other sites owned within and outside of Local Authority Area
Proposed Site Manager details
Details of other sites that the Site Manager has managed
Have you had any previous site licenses revoked?
Any previous convictions relating to mobile homes sites?
To ensure consistency of approach a prescribed form for the application would be required.
Regulation and enforcement of site license conditions
Currently the only enforcement action that can be taken on Mobile Home sites is prosecution of the site operator. Our experience is that this has limited success in improving standards on sites and in some cases the money spent to defend the case would be better spent improving the conditions. A suite of enforcement tools should be available to local authorities to improve standards and the living conditions for the residents. This could include improvement notices for minor breaches of the licence conditions, for example failure to keep the site clean and tidy. Prohibition notices for serious offences which pose an imminent risk to the safety of residents.
With regard to prosecution, currently the legislation allows the revocation of a site licence after 3 successful convictions. If this requirement was removed site owners will be more willing to deal with breaches of conditions in order to reduce the risk of losing their licence. There is a need for the introduction of control provisions, such as seen in housing legislation, where by the local authority can step in and take over management in the event of serious failings. Many local authorities have experience of managing sites of one sort or another.
Even within neighbouring local authorities there is inconsistency with regard to the adoption of the mobile home model standards and their enforcement. This does not assist when taking formal action as inevitably site owners will state the inconsistency and confusion as a mitigating factor especially if they operate sites across a number of districts. Therefore to improve the regulation and enforcement of site licences the conditions should be mandatory and the period for compliance with new standards should be set nationally.
Resale of mobile homes
On sites with non-compliance the point of sale offers an ideal opportunity for site owners to improve conditions and if appropriate ensure full compliance with the licence conditions. For example, where a mobile home is not on a concrete hard standing when the property is sold this gives the site owner the ideal opportunity to undertake the work without disturbing an occupying resident. This area should be considered and a model condition developed.
As it stands the ability of site owners to veto sales and charge a commission provides a positive disincentive for site owners to manage parks to a high standard, high turnover of residents being more profitable to them.
It is understandable that site owners would want some control over who resides on their parks and these are controlled by the site rules. Anything beyond reasonable restrictions, for example age, pet ownership etc would seem unnecessary and open to abuse. Additionally, residents would benefit from a laid down ground rent/rental procedure that would be applicable across all Park Homes in the country.
The right of a site owner to charge up to 10% commission on the value of a home, which is the sole property of the resident, puts them in a unique and inequitable position. Tighter controls on this would ensure fair market prices, and prevent harassment of residents.
It would benefit both existing and potential Park Homes residents if they were able to compare one site against another on like for like basis. Such a scheme could be administered through the TSA, and could include such items as breaches of licence, average ground rental etc.
Rented mobile homes
At present, mobile homes fall outside the scope of the Housing Act 2004 and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, thus placing the tenants of mobile homes in a weaker position than other tenants.
Mobile homes need to be brought within the scope of the Housing Act in the same way as house boats have been.
The Energy Market
Current Government policy encourages competition in the energy market. Where gas and electricity are available through the grid system, users can compare one energy provider against another and contract to whom they please. In the case of Park Homes where bottled or container gas is the only form of energy, residents in rural areas are restricted to local suppliers, and may not be able to claim fuel discounts in the case of low income. This inequality of supply and ability to claim needs to be considered.
COUNCIL LOBBIES FOR POSITIVE CHANGES TO PARK HOME REGULATIONS
Teignbridge District Council has taken a stand for the rights of Park Home residents, lobbying for major changes to regulations and laws which affect Park Home sites in response to a Government inquiry about their management.
The district has 1154 Park Homes across 54 sites, one of the highest proportions of any district in the country. It has a lot of experience enforcing site conditions and improving conditions for residents, which under current laws can be time-consuming, expensive and ineffective. The council says key measures are missing, such as a full application process to be able to run sites, the ability to turn down site license applications, a range of enforcement options other than formal prosecution, tighter controls on the reselling of homes, better protection for tenants renting mobile homes, and measures to reduce fuel poverty.
Under current laws and subject to a current planning permission being in place, councils are unable to refuse a licence application to run a site. This means that even if an applicant has a previous conviction under the Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960, this cannot influence the decision to issue a licence. This is compounded by only being able to enforce license conditions about maintaining sites by prosecuting site owners. This means that minor breaches can go unchallenged, or if they are tackled it means a time-consuming and expensive court case. The council believes that in many instances the money spent by owners defending these prosecutions would be better spent doing the required work on their sites.
In its response to the Government, Teignbridge argues that a range of enforcement options, such as the ability to serve formal notices requiring work to be done, would be a better alternative. It also says that councils should be free to step in and manage sites directly if there are major problems, and calls for a single set of standards to apply across the country, ending differing site requirements across district borders. At the moment site owners who operate sites in different districts cite this inconsistency and confusion over the rules as a big contributing factor to things going wrong.
Cllr Philip Vogel, Teignbridge Executive Spokesperson for Housing and Planning said:
“Park Home residents can be among our more vulnerable citizens, often they are older people who might not have all the support they need to deal with site owners. It’s therefore unacceptable that the rules governing Park Homes are so inconsistent and lack the powers we need to make life better for residents.
“Our proposals would also benefit the majority of respectable site owners and managers who are often thwarted by changing goalposts across districts and a lack of formal guidance on legal, financial and health and safety issues. Good site owners should not feel that a few give them a bad name.
“Among other things we don’t think it’s fair that someone renting a mobile home isn’t covered by the Housing Act, when even house boats have been brought under the Act before. We’re also concerned that site owners can benefit from a high turnover of residents as they get sale commission on their homes, giving less scrupulous owners very little incentive to work with residents and help make things right when problems occur. On top of this, residents may be limited to using only bottled or liquid gas as their only source of fuel in rural areas, without any way of comparing costs and buying fuel in a competitive market, or taking advantage of any discounts or subsidy schemes.
“All in all we think the current system means a rough deal for residents, respectable site owners and councils alike. It wouldn’t be difficult to put a lot of this right, but we need the Government to sit up and take notice of these issues.”
Also in the council’s response is a call for a system which would let residents and potential residents compare different Park Home sites on a like-for-like basis to help them choose the right place for them. Such a system would include comparisons of things like ground rent, the number of prosecutions against the site and more, helping people make an informed choice.
Avril Knapman is the owner of Grange Park in Abbotskerswell, which has 6 park homes on the site.
Mrs Knapman said:
“I like to work with the council and my residents to make sure things are done professionally. It is a shame that a small minority of site owners give others a bad name. I would certainly support clearer rules for owners and would like to see a body like A.C.A.S set up to be legally binding on all parties in disputes, instead of the expensive and ineffective system of court action. This should protect peoples’ rights and homes and the work and cost of site owners to make a good site.”
The Communities and Local Government Committee announced its inquiry in December 2011, but has yet to confirm timeframes for considering responses and making recommendations.
ENDS
For media queries please contact Tim Borrett, Communications Officer on 01626 215164 or Tim.Borrett@teignbridge.gov.uk.
Notes to Editors
1) About Park Homes: Park homes are residential mobile homes, some resembling bungalows and others closer to traditional caravans. Currently there are about 250,000 people living in park homes on more than 1700 sites in England and Wales. Park homes can be bought at relatively low prices. Although residents usually buy their Park Home, they have to pay the site owner a rent for the pitch on which the home is installed and for maintenance of the communal areas of the site.
2) Teignbridge District Council’s response to the Government inquiry follows in full:
Response to the Communities and Local Government Committees inquiry into park homes.
The committee is considering the adequacy of the current legislation as it affects park home owners, site operators and local authorities. The committee has suggested a number of areas that respondents may wish to comment on:
site fees;
the awarding and revocation of site licences
the regulation and enforcement of site license conditions;
the need for the manager of a site to be a “fit and proper” person and the enforcement of this requirement;
the regulation of parks owned by local authorities;
the protection of occupiers of park homes against harassment and illegal eviction; and
resale of park homes and resale fees.
This response relates to those areas which are of concern to residents of park homes within Teignbridge.
Awarding and revocation of site licences
Currently on application to the local authority, subject to a current planning permission being in place the Local Authority is unable to refuse a licence application. Therefore if an applicant has a previous conviction under the Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960 this cannot influence the decision to issue a licence. Therefore a fit and proper test with objective assessment criteria similar to those seen with the licensing of houses in multiple occupation would allow the local authority more scope to consider the suitability of the applicant. Information that would assist the local authority in assessing applications could include:
· Details of all interested parties in the business
· Address of other sites owned within and outside of Local Authority Area
Proposed Site Manager details
Details of other sites that the Site Manager has managed
Have you had any previous site licenses revoked?
Any previous convictions relating to mobile homes sites?
To ensure consistency of approach a prescribed form for the application would be required.
Regulation and enforcement of site license conditions
Currently the only enforcement action that can be taken on Mobile Home sites is prosecution of the site operator. Our experience is that this has limited success in improving standards on sites and in some cases the money spent to defend the case would be better spent improving the conditions. A suite of enforcement tools should be available to local authorities to improve standards and the living conditions for the residents. This could include improvement notices for minor breaches of the licence conditions, for example failure to keep the site clean and tidy. Prohibition notices for serious offences which pose an imminent risk to the safety of residents.
With regard to prosecution, currently the legislation allows the revocation of a site licence after 3 successful convictions. If this requirement was removed site owners will be more willing to deal with breaches of conditions in order to reduce the risk of losing their licence. There is a need for the introduction of control provisions, such as seen in housing legislation, where by the local authority can step in and take over management in the event of serious failings. Many local authorities have experience of managing sites of one sort or another.
Even within neighbouring local authorities there is inconsistency with regard to the adoption of the mobile home model standards and their enforcement. This does not assist when taking formal action as inevitably site owners will state the inconsistency and confusion as a mitigating factor especially if they operate sites across a number of districts. Therefore to improve the regulation and enforcement of site licences the conditions should be mandatory and the period for compliance with new standards should be set nationally.
Resale of mobile homes
On sites with non-compliance the point of sale offers an ideal opportunity for site owners to improve conditions and if appropriate ensure full compliance with the licence conditions. For example, where a mobile home is not on a concrete hard standing when the property is sold this gives the site owner the ideal opportunity to undertake the work without disturbing an occupying resident. This area should be considered and a model condition developed.
As it stands the ability of site owners to veto sales and charge a commission provides a positive disincentive for site owners to manage parks to a high standard, high turnover of residents being more profitable to them.
It is understandable that site owners would want some control over who resides on their parks and these are controlled by the site rules. Anything beyond reasonable restrictions, for example age, pet ownership etc would seem unnecessary and open to abuse. Additionally, residents would benefit from a laid down ground rent/rental procedure that would be applicable across all Park Homes in the country.
The right of a site owner to charge up to 10% commission on the value of a home, which is the sole property of the resident, puts them in a unique and inequitable position. Tighter controls on this would ensure fair market prices, and prevent harassment of residents.
It would benefit both existing and potential Park Homes residents if they were able to compare one site against another on like for like basis. Such a scheme could be administered through the TSA, and could include such items as breaches of licence, average ground rental etc.
Rented mobile homes
At present, mobile homes fall outside the scope of the Housing Act 2004 and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, thus placing the tenants of mobile homes in a weaker position than other tenants.
Mobile homes need to be brought within the scope of the Housing Act in the same way as house boats have been.
The Energy Market
Current Government policy encourages competition in the energy market. Where gas and electricity are available through the grid system, users can compare one energy provider against another and contract to whom they please. In the case of Park Homes where bottled or container gas is the only form of energy, residents in rural areas are restricted to local suppliers, and may not be able to claim fuel discounts in the case of low income. This inequality of supply and ability to claim needs to be considered.
Tuesday 14 February 2012
Draft Executive Minutes 8th February 2012
I said I would put up the draft Executive Minutes for 8th February 2012 at which agenda item 5 Gypsy and Travellers, Haldon Ridge - was discussed, and the resolution voted upon
The link is below;
http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=32716&p=0
These Minutes still need to be ratified.
The link is below;
http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=32716&p=0
These Minutes still need to be ratified.
Friday 10 February 2012
Dartmoor DMD Blog
Dartmoor National Park has produced a Blog on the DMD as well as a recent Tweet: They can be found at:
http://dartmoornpa.wordpress.com/2012/02/10/dmd/
And the Tweet
http://twitter.com/dartmoornpa
http://dartmoornpa.wordpress.com/2012/02/10/dmd/
And the Tweet
http://twitter.com/dartmoornpa
Ashburton Neighbourhood Policing Report - January 2012
I reproduce the Ashburton Neighbourhood Policing Report for January 2012 received today, together with information the a note that the Police:
Over the past month from Ashburton we have had 67 incidents reported to us, of which 20 concerned the A38 and a further 5 were traffic related incidents in the town itself. Only 4 incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported.
13 crimes have been reported which included 3 offences of theft and 3 offences of assault. One of the theft offences related to the theft of meat from Tuckers Market which has been investigated locally. We have had a burglary reported to us which related to an incident at a flat in East St. Police attended and the offender was arrested at the scene.
From the Bickington area we have had 5 incidents reported to us of which 2 related to the A38. Local Police dealt with a traffic collision at Goodstone on 13th January which resulted in a minor injury to the driver and a partial closure to the A38 for a short time. 1 crime of assault was reported to us from the village and a male arrested and interviewed.
From the Widecombe area 3 incidents were reported to us. 1 related to an overturned car at Hemsworthy Gate due to the icy conditions on 31st January, whilst another log related to missing kayakers from the Newbridge area that were eventually found unharmed. 1 crime was recorded which related to an allegation of theft of a mobile phone from the Inn.
Woodland and Buckland remained both incident and crime free for the month.
Recent crime figures for the Ashburton and Buckfastleigh neighbourhood indicate that over the past 12 months reported crime to us is down by just over 15 %. This is the biggest reduction for the whole of Teignbridge and the South Hams which is really good news. The actual numbers of recorded crime are small (283 crimes compared to 334) so we all have to work hard to keep things looking so good. We rely on locals taking care of their property and calling us when they see anything suspicious.
One for your diary - In relation to crime prevention issues we will be running an event at Mole Valley Farmers, Heathfield on Saturday 3rd March where we will have our ‘shed’ on a trailer, which we use to promote better security for such structures and outbuildings. We will also be promoting Farm Watch and our Community messaging systems.
Please report any suspicious activity or behaviour when it is occurring at the time on the new non-emergency telephone number of 101 – or use 999 in an emergency situation, ie if a crime is being committed.
My next Police surgery at the Ashburton Information Centre is from 10-11am on Tuesday 14th February.
I can be contacted at Ashburton Police Station via the Central no. 101 or via e-mail – Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
Alternatively the totally confidential Crimestoppers no.0800 555111 can be used to pass information to the Police.
Police Sergeant Ian Stevens
PC Andy Dudley
PCSO Kev Macleod.
'would also like to draw your attention to the Devon and Cornwall Neighbourhood Policing Website. Once in the site you can use the search facility to ‘Find my Neighbourhood’ where you will be able to view the Policing Priorities for your area. These Priorities have been developed through regular consultation with our communities.
This site will also show what steps we are taking to address these priorities, as well advertising the monthly meetings or surgeries that we hold in your area. These meetings provide an opportunity for members of the community to come along and meet the local team and raise any issues that directly affect them. The outcomes of these meetings also help set the Priorities.'
ASHBURTON NEIGHBOURHOOD REPORT - JANUARY 2012
Over the past month from Ashburton we have had 67 incidents reported to us, of which 20 concerned the A38 and a further 5 were traffic related incidents in the town itself. Only 4 incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported.
13 crimes have been reported which included 3 offences of theft and 3 offences of assault. One of the theft offences related to the theft of meat from Tuckers Market which has been investigated locally. We have had a burglary reported to us which related to an incident at a flat in East St. Police attended and the offender was arrested at the scene.
From the Bickington area we have had 5 incidents reported to us of which 2 related to the A38. Local Police dealt with a traffic collision at Goodstone on 13th January which resulted in a minor injury to the driver and a partial closure to the A38 for a short time. 1 crime of assault was reported to us from the village and a male arrested and interviewed.
From the Widecombe area 3 incidents were reported to us. 1 related to an overturned car at Hemsworthy Gate due to the icy conditions on 31st January, whilst another log related to missing kayakers from the Newbridge area that were eventually found unharmed. 1 crime was recorded which related to an allegation of theft of a mobile phone from the Inn.
Woodland and Buckland remained both incident and crime free for the month.
Recent crime figures for the Ashburton and Buckfastleigh neighbourhood indicate that over the past 12 months reported crime to us is down by just over 15 %. This is the biggest reduction for the whole of Teignbridge and the South Hams which is really good news. The actual numbers of recorded crime are small (283 crimes compared to 334) so we all have to work hard to keep things looking so good. We rely on locals taking care of their property and calling us when they see anything suspicious.
One for your diary - In relation to crime prevention issues we will be running an event at Mole Valley Farmers, Heathfield on Saturday 3rd March where we will have our ‘shed’ on a trailer, which we use to promote better security for such structures and outbuildings. We will also be promoting Farm Watch and our Community messaging systems.
Please report any suspicious activity or behaviour when it is occurring at the time on the new non-emergency telephone number of 101 – or use 999 in an emergency situation, ie if a crime is being committed.
My next Police surgery at the Ashburton Information Centre is from 10-11am on Tuesday 14th February.
I can be contacted at Ashburton Police Station via the Central no. 101 or via e-mail – Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
Alternatively the totally confidential Crimestoppers no.0800 555111 can be used to pass information to the Police.
Police Sergeant Ian Stevens
PC Andy Dudley
PCSO Kev Macleod.
Of Parish Meetings and Parish Polls - Voting Arrangements
Teignbridge District Council has approved the question brought forward at the Parish Meeting on Tuesday to be put before Buckfastleigh electors:
'Do you want Whitecleave Quarry in Buckfastleigh to be used for any handling, processing or storage of industrial waste and bottom ash from waste incineration?'
And a date and venue has been set. The Parish Poll will take place on Thursday 1st March between 100hrs and 2100hrs in the Town Hall. The Poll will be administered in the same manner as a normal election, although polling cards will not be issued.
'Do you want Whitecleave Quarry in Buckfastleigh to be used for any handling, processing or storage of industrial waste and bottom ash from waste incineration?'
And a date and venue has been set. The Parish Poll will take place on Thursday 1st March between 100hrs and 2100hrs in the Town Hall. The Poll will be administered in the same manner as a normal election, although polling cards will not be issued.
Thursday 9 February 2012
DNPA development Management Document consultation unto 4th April 2012
The DMDPD can be found at within the pages of the DNPA web site at:
http://www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk/planning/pl-forwardplanning/pl-localdevframework/pl-development_management_and_delivery_development_plan_document
You have until 4th April to respond. In addition to this consultation there are also plans to commission Masterplans for Ashburton and Chagford.
This a long and complex document, but essential reading if you live and work in the Park.
http://www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk/planning/pl-forwardplanning/pl-localdevframework/pl-development_management_and_delivery_development_plan_document
You have until 4th April to respond. In addition to this consultation there are also plans to commission Masterplans for Ashburton and Chagford.
This a long and complex document, but essential reading if you live and work in the Park.
Buckfastleigh Neighbourhood Policing Report January 2012
Buckfastleigh Neighbourhood report – January 2012
Over the past month there have been 43 incidents reported to us from Buckfastleigh. Of note we have seen an increase in the number of reports of the inappropriate use of small motorcycles, both on the road and on the football pitch. One local youth has been seen riding one and this is being investigated locally.
We have had 7 crimes reported to us from the town which includes an assault allegations, 2 criminal damage reports that relate to the same vehicle, 1 theft allegation where the suspect and victim lived at the same address and 1 offence of a person being harassed by text messages from an ex work colleague. Another offence involved a person being verbally abusive to another after an alleged road traffic offence. This incident was attended by police and was resolved by way of the ‘offender’ apologising to the other party face to face for his behaviour.
Dean Prior remained crime free, though 4 incidents were reported. 2 of these related to traffic issues.
No incidents were reported to us from the West Buckfastleigh area but 2 crimes were reported to us. One related to the theft of tools from an unattended van parked in the area of Kings wood. The value of this theft was quite high and included a generator and other assorted power tools. The other theft related to a pedal cycle that was stolen from the Hawson area.
Holne was both crime and incident free.
Recent crime figures for the Ashburton and Buckfastleigh neighbourhood indicate that over the past 12 months reported crime to us is down by just over 15 %. This is the biggest reduction for the whole of Teignbridge and the South Hams which is really good news. The actual numbers of recorded crime are small (283 crimes compared to 334) so we all have to work hard to keep things looking so good. We rely on locals taking care of their property and calling us when they see anything suspicious.
One for your diary - In relation to crime prevention issues we will be running an event at Mole Valley Farmers, Heathfield on Saturday 3rd March where we will have our ‘shed’ on a trailer, which we use to promote better security for such structures and outbuildings. We will also be promoting Farm Watch and our Community messaging systems.
Over the past few weeks the local team have been out speaking to residents to identify current issues that affect their quality of life in the area. It was reassuring to find that all residents spoken to felt safe living in the area. The vast majority of people spoken to had no issues, whilst the biggest concern raised was in relation to Anti Social Behaviour involving young people. Parking, dog mess on the street and speeding were also issues raised. As a team we will now be identifying what we can do to tackle these issues, and also identifying other key agencies that can assist. We will keep you updated.
We can still be contacted via the central switchboard no. 101 or via e-mail – Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
Our next Police Surgeries will be held at the Buckfastleigh Town Hall clerk’s office on the 16th February 2012 , from 1900 until 2000 hrs
Police Sergeant Ian Stevens
PC 4939 Alison HOOPER,
PCSO Jonathan BOX
Over the past month there have been 43 incidents reported to us from Buckfastleigh. Of note we have seen an increase in the number of reports of the inappropriate use of small motorcycles, both on the road and on the football pitch. One local youth has been seen riding one and this is being investigated locally.
We have had 7 crimes reported to us from the town which includes an assault allegations, 2 criminal damage reports that relate to the same vehicle, 1 theft allegation where the suspect and victim lived at the same address and 1 offence of a person being harassed by text messages from an ex work colleague. Another offence involved a person being verbally abusive to another after an alleged road traffic offence. This incident was attended by police and was resolved by way of the ‘offender’ apologising to the other party face to face for his behaviour.
Dean Prior remained crime free, though 4 incidents were reported. 2 of these related to traffic issues.
No incidents were reported to us from the West Buckfastleigh area but 2 crimes were reported to us. One related to the theft of tools from an unattended van parked in the area of Kings wood. The value of this theft was quite high and included a generator and other assorted power tools. The other theft related to a pedal cycle that was stolen from the Hawson area.
Holne was both crime and incident free.
Recent crime figures for the Ashburton and Buckfastleigh neighbourhood indicate that over the past 12 months reported crime to us is down by just over 15 %. This is the biggest reduction for the whole of Teignbridge and the South Hams which is really good news. The actual numbers of recorded crime are small (283 crimes compared to 334) so we all have to work hard to keep things looking so good. We rely on locals taking care of their property and calling us when they see anything suspicious.
One for your diary - In relation to crime prevention issues we will be running an event at Mole Valley Farmers, Heathfield on Saturday 3rd March where we will have our ‘shed’ on a trailer, which we use to promote better security for such structures and outbuildings. We will also be promoting Farm Watch and our Community messaging systems.
Over the past few weeks the local team have been out speaking to residents to identify current issues that affect their quality of life in the area. It was reassuring to find that all residents spoken to felt safe living in the area. The vast majority of people spoken to had no issues, whilst the biggest concern raised was in relation to Anti Social Behaviour involving young people. Parking, dog mess on the street and speeding were also issues raised. As a team we will now be identifying what we can do to tackle these issues, and also identifying other key agencies that can assist. We will keep you updated.
We can still be contacted via the central switchboard no. 101 or via e-mail – Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
Our next Police Surgeries will be held at the Buckfastleigh Town Hall clerk’s office on the 16th February 2012 , from 1900 until 2000 hrs
Police Sergeant Ian Stevens
PC 4939 Alison HOOPER,
PCSO Jonathan BOX
Wednesday 8 February 2012
Of Parish Meetings and Parish Polls
It is unusual to have a Parish Poll, but recently Teignbridge has had two, and last night at Buckfastleigh Town Hall the third occurred.
Parish Polls are one offs in the democratic process. Local electors can call upon their Parish or Town Council to hold a Parish Meeting. There is a requirement for Parish and Town Councils to hold an Annual Parish Meeting at which they report back to the electorate, and they in their turn can raise any issues, and propose a Parish Poll on any issue pertinent to that community. In addition the electorate can also call for a Parish Meeting at anytime, and this is what happened to get to last night's meeting.
Those present who are on the Electoral Roll may propose a question to be put to local residents in the form of a Parish Poll with essentially a yes or no answer format. (I apologies if i'm not quite correct on any point, I never experienced a Parish Poll on my watch and if you want chapter and verse check with your Principle Authority).
Briefly, (because doubtless last night's meeting will be reported in other places by many different means), last night 36 electors agreed and voted to present the question below to Teignbridge District Council for validation, and then requested TDC to arrange a Parish Poll for registered electors to vote for or against the question:
“Do you want Whitecleave Quarry in Buckfastleigh to be used for any handling, processing or storage of industrial waste and bottom ash from waste incineration?”
Parish Polls are one offs in the democratic process. Local electors can call upon their Parish or Town Council to hold a Parish Meeting. There is a requirement for Parish and Town Councils to hold an Annual Parish Meeting at which they report back to the electorate, and they in their turn can raise any issues, and propose a Parish Poll on any issue pertinent to that community. In addition the electorate can also call for a Parish Meeting at anytime, and this is what happened to get to last night's meeting.
Those present who are on the Electoral Roll may propose a question to be put to local residents in the form of a Parish Poll with essentially a yes or no answer format. (I apologies if i'm not quite correct on any point, I never experienced a Parish Poll on my watch and if you want chapter and verse check with your Principle Authority).
Briefly, (because doubtless last night's meeting will be reported in other places by many different means), last night 36 electors agreed and voted to present the question below to Teignbridge District Council for validation, and then requested TDC to arrange a Parish Poll for registered electors to vote for or against the question:
“Do you want Whitecleave Quarry in Buckfastleigh to be used for any handling, processing or storage of industrial waste and bottom ash from waste incineration?”
Tuesday 7 February 2012
For the Journey
Residents of Ashburton and Buckfastleigh will also familiar with the Rotary float that tours the towns at Christmas and spends a day at Mole Valley Farmers.
These events help Rotary to raise funds for a number of charities, and yesterday the Club visited one of three Hospices run by Children's Hospice South West - at Little Harbour St. Austell to present a cheque for £3000.00.
http://www.chsw.org.uk/page.aspx?pid=262
Suffice to say it was a real privilege to be shown around Little Harbour and meet those involved, and share their dream, of a Hospice within 90 minutes of any destination within the SouthWest. One fact that is very pertinent to fund raising, is that it is estimated to cost between £7.2m and £7.3m to run all three Hospices this coming year.
Sunday 5 February 2012
A Week at a Glance
Just thought I'd share with regular and irregular readers my this last Council week.
Monday
> Review of the Devon wide Draft Tenancy Strategy.
> Kingskerswell Core Strategy Consultation.
Tuesday
> Press Release for the TDC scheme to help landlords improve energy efficiency for elderly tenants and tenants with very young children.
> Sentry Farm Exminster Planning Appeal.
Wednesday
> Continuation of the Sentry Farm Planning Appeal.
> Bovey Tracey Core Strategy Consultation.
Thursday
> South West Custom/Self Build Conference.
Friday
> Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management Committee.
> Dartmoor National Park Authority Meeting.
In addition I have between one hours correspondence in various forms and papers to read on average each day. One unexpected plus to being a Councillor, is the number of people I have met who have a passion for their communities and quietly beaver away on projects and schemes. Often with little or no recognition - and it is these schemes that I believe the Councillors Community fund grants can be of most assistance to.
Monday
> Review of the Devon wide Draft Tenancy Strategy.
> Kingskerswell Core Strategy Consultation.
Tuesday
> Press Release for the TDC scheme to help landlords improve energy efficiency for elderly tenants and tenants with very young children.
> Sentry Farm Exminster Planning Appeal.
Wednesday
> Continuation of the Sentry Farm Planning Appeal.
> Bovey Tracey Core Strategy Consultation.
Thursday
> South West Custom/Self Build Conference.
Friday
> Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management Committee.
> Dartmoor National Park Authority Meeting.
In addition I have between one hours correspondence in various forms and papers to read on average each day. One unexpected plus to being a Councillor, is the number of people I have met who have a passion for their communities and quietly beaver away on projects and schemes. Often with little or no recognition - and it is these schemes that I believe the Councillors Community fund grants can be of most assistance to.
Friday 3 February 2012
Colder this morning
-4 today, and I notice that the de-icer is effective down to -20. It went down to -15 last year. Hey ho :)
Thursday 2 February 2012
Finally - The Cold Spell
I don't claim this is any sort of record, but it was -3 outside this morning -humph
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