Agenda item

Mayfields Open Space

An update was read out by Cllr Semlyen on behalf of David Warburton (CYC).

“The mediation process was unsuccessful. Therefore a decision on the future management arrangements will be made by Cllr Merrett as Cabinet Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainability at a public decision session on 19 July at 4.30pm. Reportsand agenda will be available in advance by

Going onto the Council website or by contacting: Laura Bootland, Democratic Services. Telephone: 01904 552062; Email: laura.bootland@york.gov.uk”

There were no questions from the floor.

Ward Budget 2013-14

i)Cllr Semlyen reported that a suggestion has been received from a resident for spring blossom tree planting on the long grass verge on Moor Lane. This could only be an eligible application under the new arrangement for ward funding, if a local, constituted, voluntary organisation applied to the ward pot. Discussion then took place to get feedback from residents on the suggestion which was supported in principle:

Question:ASB is taking place – might be an issue for the longevity of the trees if planted there

Question: Does the land not belong to Chapmans Pond? No. Chapman’s Pond is a CYC site off Moor Lane.

Cllr Semlyen asked residents what proportion of the budget they would like to see allocated to the trees – it was agreed a maximum of £1,000 which would get about 4 trees.

Cllr Reid also reported that Friends of Acomb Wood are looking to improve the entrance to the wood at the Ashbourne Way end. This could also be a possible suggestion.

ii)Cllr Semlyen then suggested another beneficiary for grant funding – replacing the perspex screen on the Chapman’s Pond noticeboard via a bid from the Friends of Chapman’s Pond at an approx cost of £200-£300 subject to quotes.  Cllr Semlyen subsequently wrote to the Chair and Secretary asking them to apply for this.

iii)Roger Jennings, Chair of Dringhouses Planning Panel updated the Forum on the proposed idea to meet at Dringhouses Primary School and therefore preclude the need to apply for funding from the ward.

He was asked if the Planning Panel needed funds for the annual subscription to the Planning organisation. The response was no.

Kay Bailey updated the meeting that in principle the school was happy to offer a monthly hire to the Planning Panel, so Kay is checking with Head of Communities & Equalities Team that their budget will cover the costs of hiring the school.

iv)Cllr Semlyen asked the meeting if it residents would approve that   some of the ward budget to be allocated to the launching of the 20mph limit scheme in the ward, in the way that other cities had done so. The meeting responded that it was not appropriate.

Question: What is the rationale for Moor Lane being excluded in the 20mph areas?

In response: if you have any feedback email the 20mph team as part of the consultation or write to Cllr Merrett.

Cllr Reid – Moor Lane is recognised as being excessive speeding. Its on a list of roads that need speed management.

Question: This is not a reason in itself to reduce the speed to 20mph. People will still speed regardless of signage.

In response: Cllr Semlyen replied that the data says that overall speeds will reduce.

Question: if Cllr Semlyen is going to give an opinion then she should withdraw the chair role. Cllr Semlyen replied that she was giving a factual response but was happy to pass over the ‘chair’ to another Councillor.  The meeting agreed that Cllr Semlyen would continue to chair.