The Chair welcomed all to the meeting.

A copy of the code of conduct was circulated with the papers and all were asked to abide by the code for the duration of the meeting.

The minutes of the last meeting held on Monday 13 May 2019 were agreed as an accurate record and the following updates were given.

Potholes
Numerous dangerous potholes on Woodlands Road and Fieldhead Avenue have been repaired and both roads are scheduled for resurfacing between 26 August 2019 and 9 September 2019.

PC Martin Giblin and PCSO Sana Haider provided the crime statistics from the date of the last forum on 13 May 2019 to 5 August 2019 and presented the following information:

Burglary
Officers have attained some CCTV from the incidents which although not evidential gave an indication that there were two separate teams working in the area and Officers are working with the Intelligence Analysts to identify the offenders.

The Neighbourhood Team will continue with high visibility patrols and leaflet cocooning in areas of demand at peak times, including the ‘birdie estate’.  In addition the team have provided updates and crime prevention advice to the area’s Home watch Coordinators, Whats App Groups, and via GMP social media.  This action is particularly important with many of the incidents occurring when occupants have just left their premises or they are away on holiday.

**Residents were reminded that due to the nature of the burglaries consideration should be given to changing their routines.  In addition they should review their home security, particularly access points, lighting, alarms and ensuring all keys are kept in a safe place**

Theft from motor vehicle
Two offenders were arrested and charged after committing the offence in the Bury Road area at the end of June.

Pulse Policing
Pulse policing is now in full effect.  It is an Operation used when the Police are on evening shifts, whereby they ‘bus up’ to visit  various areas which may be having problems regarding  issues such as ASB, burglaries or TFMV.  This initiative enables the Police to utilise more Officers on foot in an area to combat the problem.

Parking issues
PCSO Haider revisited the Springbank Road and Bagslate Moor Road areas.  Councillor Smith has highlighted a similar problem on Wordsworth Way and the Police agreed to address the issues.

Planned action
A Safe for Summer campaign will involve the Police visiting key locations and providing crime prevention advice.

Operation Considerate is a traffic operation during the autumn period with partner agencies.

Neighbourhood speed watch initiatives.


One incident on York Avenue was raised as not being opportunist.  Four  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.

Planning application 19/00643/FUL
Nigel Morrell outlined a resubmission of a Planning Application to build a 711 square foot dwelling on Green Belt Land near Bamford Hall in Norden.  The application reference is 19/00643/FUL and it is virtually the same as previously failed applications to which many detailed and erudite objections were made.  Those objections will not apply to this new application and any new objections need to be submitted against this application to prevent incursion on the Green Belt.  The closing date is 28 days from validation date which was 24 July 2019.  The Planning Officer dealing with this application is Michael Atkinson Smith.  The application to build on Green Belt land will be considered at the Planning and Licensing Committee.

Carwood site
The old Carwood site has been purchased and it is proposed to demolish the two cottages with an intention to develop it.  No information is available at this stage about the development.  Popular belief is that the site should be included in the Conservation Area which is quarter of a mile away.

Norden Road footpath overgrown hedge
Highways were congratulated for their work on the Norden Road footpaths, however, the hedge is overgrown and obstructing the footpath.  Councillor Sullivan has requested Environmental Management to contact the owners about cutting the hedge back and they will be given the requisite time to do so.  Environmental Management will cut the hedge and invoice the owners if they do not comply with the request.

Burnthorpe Close with Murrayfield junction road surface
Concerns were raised about the resurfacing work carried out at the junction of Burnthorpe Close with Murrayfield.  It is uneven with pot holes and water is accumulating which will cause further damage.  Highways will be asked to inspect and complete any necessary work.

Bamford In Bloom
Councillor Smith accompanied the North West In Bloom judges last Wednesday 31 July 2019 on the It’s Your Neighbourhood Bamford In Bloom.  The judges commented favourably on the improvements made from last year’s inaugural entry which commendably achieved a level three award.  Sound advice and tips were given by the judges and they were very impressed at the genuine community involvement and use of volunteers.  The saddle planters provided by Environmental Management are magnificent throughout the entire Borough, but it was noted from now on groups would be required to pay for them.  Environmental Management were thanked for all the work they do with a request to highlight special praise and thanks to management for the massive effort, help and support Tracy Hibbert has put in over the last decade to the In Bloom scheme.

Friends of Bamford
The Friends of Bamford group are very active and they have organised a Fun Dog Show and Family Fun Day between 2pm and 4pm next Saturday 10 August 2019 on Bamford Green.  All are welcome to enjoy the numerous activities on offer and refreshments.  All proceeds from the event will contribute to community projects in Bamford.

Community Coffee Morning
Every Thursday a Community Coffee  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

Mondays at 6.30pm in Bamford Chapel
28 October 2019
20 January 2020