Present: Peter Chapman (PC), Marie Chapman (MC), Roger Mossman (RM),
Margaret Mossman (MM), Rick Hill (RH), Liz Berridge (LzB), Jim Hakewill(JH), Andy Browne (AB), John Showers (JS), Sarah Showers (SS), Jean Read (JR).
Apologies: Linda Burnham & John Green.
Minutes of last meeting
– Accepted as a true record – proposed RH, seconded LzB.
Matters arising – JS has been speaking to the ex warden of the Wildlife Trust who confirms there are still plans for putting in hedgerows along the boundary with the gullet. He also said that information leaflets about the gullet had been given to Persimmon for distribution to the new residents.
JH apologised for not having made enquiries regarding a police speed van for Desborough Road and confirmed he will do so. As LiB not present at the meeting JR said she would ask there was any further information regarding DTC's request for a lowering of the speed limit.
JH spoke of various parcels of green space in and around Rothwell that could be utilised for environment improvements. He said RTC has plans for planting a “Jubilee tree” but has not decided where.
Correspondence
– All had been distributed prior to the meeting.
Discussion around a recent report that Persimmon had sent to RTC raised the question as to why information no longer appears to be being sent to RNWP. It was decided that we email Marcus regarding their lack of progress with NNC Planning (one of the points in the above report), expressing our concerns and asking if we can help in any way but also adding a gentle reminder that at the meeting of stakeholders in the KBC offices Persimmon agreed to include RNWP in all updates etc. PC and LzB will put a letter together.
Newsletter
– AB reported that so far he had been unable to obtain a much better deal for distribution of newsletters. It was decided to see if the Scouts might take this on if a price could be negotiated favourable to both parties. AB will try to find a contact and ask. Several companies were suggested for printing including Montsaye School. AB will obtain quotes from local firms.
After discussion if was agreed that distributing to the whole of both towns might not be the way forward and better to concentrate on the areas that showed most interest when carrying out the petition. AB has a breakdown of areas of interest at that time and these appear to be the parts of both towns closest to or likely to be most affected by the Rothwell North development.
Discussion took place as to the content of the newsletter and it was agreed that it should be snappy & visual, on one piece of paper only e.g A4 folded to A5. SS offered to look at layout and putting ideas together and has asked for everyone to send her their thoughts plus any existing photographs showing progress. RH offered to take any additional photographs.
Any other business
– PC asked what our bank balance is and AB responded with a figure of £483.00
Date of next meeting
– Tuesday 22nd February 2022 at 7.30pm via zoom.
The meeting closed at 8.33pm.
Apologies: Irene James.
Minutes of last meeting were accepted as a true record - proposed MC and seconded LiB
Matters arising – LiB spoke to Head of Montsaye who says as far as she knows there will be a new school on the land to be given by Persimmon. JH has written to the Education Authority concerning this but is awaiting a reply. JG raised the question as to who will actually own the land once it has been given as he understands it will be the Secretary of State for Education. He is concerned that if the land is not used within a certain time the rules allow for an application to change its use. It was decided that a letter be sent after Easter raising this to Pathfinders Trustees, the Secretary of State for Education and the North Northamptonshire Council.
PC raised the question as to whether it is worth continuing trying to have conversations with Rothwell Town Council as they appear to resent our involvement in the community and actually do not appear to be helping with concerns regarding Rothwell North Development. Following discussion, it was decided to continue sending updates and to keep the way open for any different attitude in the future but to not expect any assistance. All in favour.
Correspondence – LzB had circulated all correspondence prior to the meeting. JH said following our press release he had had responses from the Evening Telegraph and Harborough FM – both want to use the information.
Montsaye access – AB had circulated photos of parked vehicles obstructing the footpath outside the entrance to Montasaye which had caused a woman pushing a pram to have to walk into the road to pass 2 cars. The chaos at picking up time has increased and cars are waiting for long periods with engines running. JH, in response to this had alerted the police and AB reported that on Tuesday he saw that 2 wardens were there and did move some cars on. After discussion it was agreed that we cannot solve the problem of Greening road but we can encourage parties to get together to discuss possible solutions. It was decided that we write to the head of Planning of NNDC, Paul Stones and Head of Montsaye stating that the new housing will only add to the existing problem if nothing is done to provide another access, and to invite them to come to our meeting to listen and discuss the issue.
Any other business – It was decided that once the work to finish the new junction is completed, a letter of thanks should be sent to all concerned for agreeing to change the road closure to weekend and night time only.
JS said he had contacted Ian Jelley to tell him that the Planners were already talking to Persimmon regarding the gully and that Persimmon have agreed to clear litter from that area.
Date of next meeting: – Tuesday 20th April 2021 at 7.30pm - same link. The meeting closed at 8.50pm.
Rothwell North Working Party Minutes for 23rd February 2021 – via zoom
Present: Peter Chapman (PC), Marie Chapman(MC), Roger Mossman(RM), Margaret Mossman(MM), Rick Hill(RH), Liz Berridge(LzB), John Green(JG), John Showers(JS), Sarah Showers(SS), Linda Burnham(LiB), Jim Hakewill(JH) Andy Browne(AB).
Apologies: Irene James.
Minutes of last meeting were accepted as a true record - proposed JH and
seconded JS.
Matters arising – AB confirmed that following correspondence between all members, it had been decided not to make an application for a grant from RTC at this point.
SS has not yet called in for a prospectus from the showhouse but will do so.
JH has spoken to Marcus – the new Site Manager replacing Paul Carvey, and found him most approachable. Marcus gave him a plan with street names but as these could be changed was asked that we do not advertise the fact. Their conversation also established that some affordable housing would soon be ready for occupation.
Correspondence - All correspondence had been circulated prior to the meeting.
There was discussion about the lack of response from RTC and especially concern that our correspondence, especially the end of year report had not been on the agenda for discussion by the council. It was decided that a letter would be sent to each of the Rothwell Town Councillors with a copy to the clerk expressing our concern and asking specific questions - proposed by MC and seconded MM with 11 in favour and 1 abstention. MC to draft asap then circulate to RNWP members for approval so that it can be sent in time for inclusion at next month's agenda of RTC. SS will attend that meeting ready to ask the questions should our letter not be on the agenda. As many RNWP members as possible to support please.
Land for Education – JG expressed his concern that this land would never actually be handed over. He quoted information stating that if land was not used after 7 years it could be returned to the developer or an application could be made to remove it from the plan after 5 years. RG had many questions – how is the land to be handed over and to whom? What is the timescale for any additional build? He did not feel there was enough detail given. RH read from the site plan that it is quite clear that this land is part of 106 agreement. JH will ask questions at NCC about any planned new school. LiB is due to speak to Head of Montsaye on another matter and will ask if they have any information they can share.
Any other business – MM reported that the Truckwatch banner had gone from the bridge near the A14 junction. We suspect this has been removed by Highways England along with others. It was decided not to replace this.
JS said that Nigel Lindley is concerned about the barrier between the Rothwell North site and the gullet as it is only a flimsy affair separating the site from a steep drop. He had spoken to the Site Manager who agreed it should be something stronger but that it was not on the plans. Nigel has approached the Wildlife Trust who are taking up the matter with KBC. JS will keep track on this and keep us informed.
JH suggested that the car park planned for the Corinthians could be used on weekdays as a kind of park and ride and so ease parking in the centre of Rothwell. LzB suggested it could even be used for a bus into Kettering and particularly the rail station. RH stated that the car park had restrictions on it that it should only be for use of the Corinthians Club.
JH stated we need to be considering urging the industrial land part of the site.
Date of next meeting: – Tuesday 23rd March 2021 at 7.30pm - same link. The meeting closed at 8.41pm.
Rothwell North Working Party
Minutes for 19th January – via zoom
Present: Peter Chapman (PC), Marie Chapman(MC), Roger Mossman(RM), Margaret Mossman(MM), Rick Hill(RH), Liz Berridge(LzB), John Green(JG), John Showers(JS), Sarah Showers(SS), Linda Burnham(LiB), Jim Hakewill(JH) Andy Browne(AB).
Apologies: Irene James, Jean Read
Minutes of last meeting were accepted as a true record - proposed JH and seconded JS.
Matters arising – RH reported that work has recommenced on the junction. JG voiced doubts about the land promised for a new school actually going through. JH gave update on NCC's part in this and reassured that it would be carried forward by the new unitary council. RH read out from the website that new schools are intended in the county in particular 420 places for the Rothwell North development and 420 places for the Grange estate Desborough. JH will ask NCC for confirmation on this. SS will pick up a prospectus from Persimmon to see what they are advertising with regards to schools and also write to Rothwell primary schools to ask what capacity they have for new pupils at present. LzB looked at the Persimmon advertisement and found they are advertising the existing local school.
A discussion took place as to whether we needed to pay for the Zoom upgrade. AB to apply to RTC for a grant to cover a year's subscription.
Correspondence: Most of the correspondence had been circulated prior to the meeting. In view of the complicated reply from KBC Planning, discussion took place as to how useful some of the correspondence is. It was decided to continue to keep everyone informed.
The end of year letter was distributed as planned although at the time most shops were closed due to the lockdown and a couple did not have letter boxes. There has been no response however there were many views on Facebook. SS suggested we deliver “welcome letters” to the new residents as each group of houses become occupied. This will let them know what the aims of the group and to forge links for continuing the push for the link road. It needs careful wording to show we are not against the development and we are not here for problems of the buildings.
JG reported that the pollution levels are up & SS suggested some of this may be due to waiting traffic at the temporary traffic lights. JH reported that this was
discussed at RTC but they were told that unless the figures are above the national average for a 12 month period, nothing would be done.
Progress of development – AB said he was struck by progress with many houses, grass verges and occupants. Discussion took place as to how to monitor when 150th home occupied or the 3 year trigger is reached. It was decided that in August – half way to the 3year trigger point – we should walk round and count the number of occupied houses and begin to push for the link road. It was also suggested that once there are 100 homes occupied we could start asking the questions but in the meantime LzB will email Paul Carvey and ask how the plans for the road are progressing.
Any other business – nothing
Date of next meeting: – Tuesday 23rd February 2021 - same link. The meeting closed at 8.41pm.
Minutes of last meeting were accepted as a true record after corrections – Jean Read added to the apologies and item 7 to read “Section 278” - proposed SS and seconded MC.
Matters arising – RH informed the meeting that Section 278 had been approved giving permission for work to be completed on the junction by 18th December 2020, although the new traffic lights are not expected to be in use yet.
The continuing disruption to traffic was discussed especially concern that the temporary traffic lights at the junction is showing green in both directions giving the impression to drivers that they have right of way over oncoming traffic. It is very narrow here and there have been some near misses. SS expressed her concern of the lack of road markings at the pedestrian crossing nearest Desborough. JH will contact Paul Carvey once again and copy in Ian Boyes of Highways, KBC and RNWP to the correspondence.
MM informed the meeting that Liz as new Secretary has now taken over the email and thanks were given to Marie Chapman for her help in organising the transfer.
MM and LzB confirmed that there had been no response from Montsaye school to our invitation to our meetings, but we understand this is a difficult time for schools working around the covid restrictions as well as concerns around the Sports Centre which, because lack of income due to forced closure during lockdowns and restrictions, faces a possible permanent closure. RNWP are concerned at the impact this will have on both the school and the towns.
Correspondence: LzB confirmed that any correspondence had already been circulated. JH reported on the air quality report he had received which showed Rothwell as the highest pollution area in the Borough and is at a level of concern. JH informed the meeting that he had spoken against the additional 300 houses to be built near the bypass/Moorfield Road before the link road as well as asking about the employment area and when affordable houses would be built. He was also told that Desborough South had been reduced by 90 houses because of “site constraints”. He will circulate information on this and pursue the matter further.
JH will also research 106 money and report back at our January meeting. Some could be used to support the Sports Centre.
Any other business: PC reported that he had one spare new banner after giving one to Sandy Cruikshank for use in Rushton. It was decided that this should be used to replace the damaged one near the health centre.
When asked if there was any Rothwell North news from RTC, JH said very little is discussed and certainly nothing of significance to report.
Date of next meeting: Tuesday 19th January 2021 via zoom – same link. The meeting closed at 8.10pm
Rothwell North Working Party
Minutes of the meeting held via Zoom
on Tuesday 27th October 2020 at 7.30pm
Present: Marie Chapman (MC), Peter Chapman (PC), Margaret Mossman (MM), Roger Mossman (RM), Rick Hill (RH), Andy Browne (AB), John Sowers (JS), Sarah Showers (SS), John Green (JG), Liz Berridge (LzB).
Apologies: Irene James,Jim Hakewill & Linda Burnham
1. Election of Secretary – Liz Berridge offered to take on the role with Margaret Mossman continuing to act as Minutes Clerk and her offered was gratefully accepted – proposed MC & seconded JS, all in agreement. MC will help to transfer the email account to LzB and MM will transfer previous correspondence, minutes etc. on to a memory stick for LzB.
2. Minutes of 29th September 2020 were accepted as a true record – proposed RH seconded SS - all in favour.
3. Matters arising not elsewhere on the agenda – MC mentioned that although we had agreed to invite Head of Montsaye to our meetings it had been decided not to do this for this meeting owing to the need to set our focus for the future.
JS stated he had put the end of year Finance report on the website but had needed to reformat it and would like someone to check it was still correct. AB confirmed he would check it with the original.
4. The focus for RNWP – as requested last meeting members had emailed in their thoughts and PC had collated these and circulated suggestions. With this in mind each member was given 2 minutes to comment. After discussion it was agreed that the focus for RNWP would continue to be limited to anything concerning the Rothwell North site, including S106 money.
5. Correspondence – Most emails had already been forwarded to members. In addition there was a response from Paul Carvey to our question of whether any construction companies had continued to
ignore the designated route as previously Paul Stones had stated that any that did would be banned from site. Paul Carvey now says that as there are so few lorries contravening the rules they have decided not to go down this route.
AB had received a letter from Market Harborough Building Society informing us that we would automatically qualify for the Financial Services Compensation Scheme unless he advise them otherwise. It was agreed that he would confirm that we wish to be included.
6. The way forward – Continue to monitor and report any concerns. SS stated it is important that we do not lose sight of promises made. Continue to keep members of the public informed.
Following discussion it was agreed that any member who reported anything to Persimmon would copy in RNWP, DTC, RTC, Jim Hakewill, Martin Hammond, and where appropriate Andy Leighton of NCC Highways (email: complaints@kierwsp.co.uk) MM to send a copy of these minutes to Head of Montsaye with a covering letter inviting her, or her representative to attend our next meeting with a view to updating us on any concerns or issues they are experiencing regarding Rothwell North. LzB will also unofficially chat with one of the school governors who she knows. PC will contact Rushton Parish Council to see if they do want a banner as was suggested last month.
7. Any other business – RH reported that no request has yet been made for the Section 238 for the road part of the new junction.
8. Date of next meeting – Tuesday 24th November at 7.30pm via Zoom and RH will set up the meeting. A provisional date was also set for Tuesday 19th January 2021 at 7.30pm
The meeting closed at 8.44pm.
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