Minutes

Terry Atkinson & Jonathan Walker gave a presentation on the latest IMD (Index of Multiple Deprivation) Report which shows that the Kingsway West Area is the most deprived area in the City.

This is based on 7 different domains.

There has been the formation of a group to look at this and this will eventually involve local residents participation.

Questions and issues raised by residents were;

·        Is the Green area at Hob Moor going to be built on

·        There is a high concentration of 1 bedroom flats in the area so we have to think about the individuals and how they can help to improve their community

There does seem to be a vast improvement around the Windsor Garth area, houses are selling much quicker than before.

Paul Bickle, Oaklands Site Manager gave an update on the progress of the New York High School and the Swimming Pool.

·        The School will open in January 09

·        Work has started on the pool drainage works

·        It will be a 6 lane pool and will be open to public

·        There will be an improved access to the site.

·        There has been a total of a £5m investment in the sports centre

·        There will be no loss in terms of swimming facilities

The following issues were raised;

·        Is there going to be any cycle parking?

o       There will be covered parking near the entrance

·        Is the depth of the pool the same?

o       The depth will range from 1m to 2m

·        Will there be any lockers?

o       Yes, just outside the cubicles

·        Will the road be open from Gale Lane?

o       There will be access from Gale Lane but just for pedestrians and cyclists

Russell Stone, Streetscene manager gave a brilliant demonstration on how to make hanging baskets and get the best out of the summer plants.

Residents then had the opportunity to ask Russell and the Street Environment Officer any questions or to raise any issues in the ward.

·        Why were the daffodils cut on Foxwood Lane when they were still in bloom?

o       The person responsible will be replanting more bulbs for next year as this should not have happened.  Russell’s department will replace them and plant even more.

·        The weedkiller has been sprayed around the bottom of the noticeboards and is killing the bulbs.

More work needs to be done to try and tackle graffiti in the area as it is getting worse.

·        When will the work start with the parking areas on Thoresby Road?

o       Consultation should be starting in May

·        The fence in Sandown Close has not been relocated in the right place.  York Housing have said they are not putting the fence back.  The hedge also needs clearing of rubbish.

o       Cllrs to meet on site and invite York Housing

·        In the back alley at Milner Street there is a lot of rubbish in one of the back gardens.

·        Are residents allowed to pop in to the school to talk to the Police?

o       No, they can be contacted by phone or by prior appointment.

Residents were able to talk to their ward councillors and the  Neighbourhood Policing Team, also to report any street environment or other ward-based issues. 

Residents were also invited to view displays for the Derwenthorpe development and from the Street Environment Officer.