Agenda and minutes

To approve as a correct record and sign the Minutes of the meeting held on 16 September 2021.

The Minutes (copies of which had been circulated) of the meeting held on 16 September 2021 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Chair.

Councillors and officers were invited to declare any interests which they had in any of the items on the agenda for the meeting.

The following interest was declared:-

Personal Interests

No urgent decisions were reported.

To receive any announcements from the Chair about local community events or issues.

There were no announcements made.

Councillors and members of the public are invited to raise ‘Neighbourhood Policing’ issues with the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Inspector Rob Hawksley (Greater Manchester Police) attended the meeting to answer questions from Councillors and members of the public in relation to Neighbourhood Policing issues within the area represented by the Bramhall & Cheadle Hulme South Area Committee. Two public questions received in advance of the meeting were considered under this item as they related to neighbourhood policing issues.

Two public questions were submitted as follows:-

·         Relating to the ongoing problem of theft within local neighbourhoods, in particular home burglaries and car theft, and how this would be addressed by local police teams.

·         Relating to the burglary of a home on Bramley Close, and how Stockport Council would act alongside the local police force to prevent crimes such as this.

In response it was commented that, while the local neighbourhood team focused on local matters, they worked in conjunction with the wider Greater Manchester Police force to address systematic and organised crime such as burglaries. It was stated that the burglary on Bramley Close had been an upsetting incident and was uncommon in the area, as the property had been accessed via an open door during the daytime and was not linked to broader trends in organised crime. It was noted that the actions taken to address theft included: recruitment of new officers, operations to tackle antisocial behaviour, use of intercept vehicles and dog handlers from GMP and crime prevention work through the neighbourhood team.

The following comments were then made/ issues raised:-

·         Members questioned whether the vehicles available for use by the local police force were fit for purpose. In response, it was commented that the local police number of vehicles were sufficient and new funding had become available for them. It was noted that different teams with high-powered vehicles were more likely to be used in high-speed pursuits.

·         Members raised a recent attack on a young girl on Blenheim Road, Cheadle Hulme, and asked what would be done in regard to this. It was commented that, if a crime had been reported, the local police would follow-up with appropriate action to the matter. 

·         Members requested an update on the issue of dangerous dogs in the area. It was noted that the local police had been working in conjunction with organisations such as the RSPCA to tackle recent dog attacks.

·         The local police force had recently recruited a new Chief Inspector, who had an excellent track record of working within police organisations to improve standards.

·         Recruitment and training were ongoing within local force, however specific numbers were not available relating to future recruitment within the neighbourhood team.

·         Concerns were raised about recent reports of spiking and the targeting of women in bars and nightclubs. It was commented that there had been no reports of this type of crime in the local area, but that local police were aware of the issue and would take on board any further guidance received.

·         It was suggested that Stockport’s new Borough Commander should meet with the Council’s four group leaders to discuss local policing concerns.

·         Members questioned whether potential criminal issues identified on social media were investigated by the local police team. In response it was commented that officers were trained to use social media and would continue monitor issues raised on the platforms, however residents should be encouraged to report crime directly to the police as direct reports were typically prioritised.

·         Members suggested that Stockport Council may be better equipped to deal with local policing matters than the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Mayor.

·         Inspector Hawksley was said to be retiring in the near future. Members thanked him for his work in the local area and wished him the best for the future.

RESOLVED – That Inspector Rob Hawksley (Greater Manchester Police) be thanked for his attendance.

Members of the public are invited to put questions to the Chair of the Area Committee on any matters within the powers and duties of the Area Committee, subject to the exclusions set out in the Code of Practice (Questions must be submitted prior to the commencement of the meeting on the cards provided. These are available the meeting.  You can also submit via the Council’s website at www.stockport.gov.uk/publicquestions.

Members of the public were invited to put questions to the Chair on any matters in the powers or duties of the Area Committee, subject to the exclusions set out within the Code of Practice.

Two public questions were submitted as follows:-

·         Relating to the removal of trees in the local area to enable development, given the Council’s ambition to maintain local trees. 

In response, it was commented that Members were unaware of reports of trees being cut down in the area. It was noted that the Council were in the process of planting a number trees as they were heading into the normal planting season.

·         Relating to local green space services such as litter-picking and street sweeping, and whether they had stopped.

In response, it was commented that this service had not stopped, but that the days of work may have changed. There may also have been a gap in this service due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Members stated that they would follow-up on this with the green space team to provide further clarity.

To consider a petition signed by ten signatories (constituting all households on the street) requesting the introduction of a residents permit parking scheme on Kew Drive, Cheadle Hulme.

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) reported on the receipt of a petition signed by 10 signatories (constituting all households on the street) requesting the introduction of guest parking permits for every household on Kew Drive, Cheadle Hulme.

RESOLVED – That the petition be referred to the Corporate Director (Place) for further investigation.

In accordance with the Code of Practice no organisation has indicated that they wished to address the Area Committee as part of the Open Forum arrangements.

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) reported that no organisations had indicated that they wished to address the Area Committee as part of the Open Forum arrangements.

To consider an application for Ward Flexibility Funding from the Stockport Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club towards the cost of replacing two pull-up banners and purchasing two large feather banners for signposting the venue used for the Breakfast Club.

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) submitted an application received on behalf of Stockport Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club for a grant from the Ward Flexibility Budget towards the cost of replacing two pull-up banners and purchasing two large feather banners for signposting the venue used for the Breakfast Club.

RESOLVED – That approval be given to an application received from Stockport Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club for a grant of £78.51 from the Ward Flexibility Budget (£26.17 from each ward allocation) towards the cost of replacing two pull-up banners and purchasing two large feather banners for signposting the venue used for the Breakfast Club.

To consider an application for Ward Flexibility Funding from the Friends of Highfield Orchard towards the cost of purchasing gardening equipment.

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) submitted an application received on behalf of Friends of Highfield Orchard for a grant from the Ward Flexibility Budget towards the cost of purchasing gardening equipment.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         Members expressed surprise at the timing of the application, given that Ward Members had arranged a meeting with the applicant for the week following the meeting.

·         Members emphasised that on occasion applications did need to be scrutinised further, as each ward only had £3000 to grant each year.

·         If the full amount could not be provided through Ward Flexibility Funding, the applicant could explore Stockport’s new Climate Action Now (CAN) grants as a potential available funding stream.

RESOLVED – That the application be deferred until a future meeting of the Area Committee, pending the submission of further information from the applicant to provide further clarity on how the funding would be spent. 

To consider an application for Ward Flexibility Funding from the Cash for Kids Charity towards the cost of providing Christmas gifts to children in Stockport.

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) submitted an application received on behalf of Cash for Kids for a grant from the Ward Flexibility Budget (£333 from each ward) towards the cost of providing Christmas gifts to children in Stockport.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         Members noted that the applicant organisation was not wholly Stockport-based and concern was expressed that any funds granted may not necessarily be used within their own wards.

·         Members were fully supportive of the aims of the organisation, however felt unable to approve the full amount detailed in the application due to the high amount requested and uncertainty relating to whether the funds would be fully spent within their wards.

RESOLVED - That approval be given to an application received from Cash for Kids for a grant of £525 from the Ward Flexibility Budget (£175 from each ward allocation) towards the cost of providing Christmas gifts to disadvantaged children in Stockport.

To consider a report of the Corporate Director for Place Management & Regeneration.

The report outlines the proposals for additional Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) to protect the implemented MCF walking and cycling facilities, between Bramhall Park and the A6.

The Area Committee is recommended to request that the Cabinet Member (Economy & Regeneration) approves the implementation of the proposed measures and the legal advertising of the Traffic Regulation Orders contained in Appendix B and subject to no objections being received within 21 days from the advertisement date the Order can be made.

Officer Contact: Nick Whelan on 0161 474 4907 or by email on nick.whelan@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Corporate Director for Place Management & Regeneration submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) outlining the proposals for additional Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) to protect the implemented MCF walking and cycling facilities, between Bramhall Park and the A6.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         Whether letters would be sent to houses affected by the proposals to invite local residents to submit objections, which could then be considered alongside the consultation process.

·         Members felt that the measures were necessary to protect the walking and cycling facilities, however anticipated a large number of objections from residents as the measures could negatively impact the availability of parking space for visitors to the street.

·         Members raised concerns about the dangers of the cycle routes being covered in leaves, and surface water draining onto local properties from the routes. In response it was commented that officers were looking at measures to remove the leaves via mechanical maintenance, and that officers would investigate the issue of drainage further.

·         Members questioned the possible effectiveness of the measures, and noted that the implementation of the TRO may move the parking issue to another nearby street without a TRO in place.

·         It was noted that this issue could be revisited if the TRO was unsuccessful, as further measures such as bollards could be implemented in the future.

RESOLVED – That the Cabinet Member (for Economy & Regeneration) be recommended to give approval to the implementation of the proposed measures and the legal advertising of the below Traffic Regulation Orders and subject to the receipt of no objections within 21 days of the advertisement date, the subsequent making of the orders.

Proposed No Waiting At Any Time:

Bridge Lane, north side, from a point 10 metres west of the projected westerly kerbline of Hillcrest Road, in a westerly direction, to its junction with Bramhall Lane South.

Bridge Lane, north side, from a point 10 metres west of the projected westerly kerbline of Walmer Drive to a point 10 metres east of the projected easterly kerbline of Walmer Drive.

Walmer Drive, both sides, from its junction with Bridge Lane for a distance of 10 metres in a northerly direction.

Bridge Lane, south side, from a point 6.5 metres west of the projected westerly kerbline of Wallbank Road, in a westerly direction, to its junction with Bramhall Lane South.

Headlands Road, both sides, from its junction with Bridge Lane for a distance of 10 metres in a southerly direction.

Valley Road, both sides, from its junction with Bridge Lane for a distance of 15 metres in a southerly direction.

To consider a report of the Corporate Director (Place) & Deputy Chief Executive.

The following development applications will be considered by the Area Committee:-

Development applications were submitted.

(NOTE: Full details of the decisions including conditions and reasons for granting or refusing planning permission and imposing conditions are given in the schedule of plans. The Corporate Director for Place Management & Regeneration is authorised to determine conditions and reasons and they are not therefore referred to in committee minutes unless the committee makes a specific decision on a condition or reason. In order to reduce printing costs and preserve natural resources, the schedule of plans is not reproduced within these minutes. A copy of the schedule of plans is available on the council’s website at www.stockport.gov.uk/planningdecisions. Copies of the schedule of plans, or any part thereof, may be obtained from the Place Directorate upon payment of the Council’s reasonable charges).

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) outlined the procedure for public speaking on planning applications.

Minor Material Amendment to planning permission DC070188 to facilitate a change in the layout of the site, in the height of the wall to properties on Cromwell Road and the inclusion of a security gate to the drive.

The Area Committee is recommended to grant planning permission subject to a Section 106 Agreement.

Officer contact: Jane Chase on 0161 474 3550 or email: jane.chase@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/080661 for a Minor Material Amendment to planning permission DC070188 to facilitate a change in the layout of the site, in the height of the wall to properties on Cromwell Road and the inclusion of a security gate to the drive at 185A Moss Lane, Bramhall, it was 

RESOLVED – That planning permission be granted subject to the inclusion of an informative for additional mature planting on the site.

Demolition of existing dwelling and outbuilding. Erection of a replacement dwelling and outbuilding.

The Area Committee is requested to recommended that the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee grants planning permission subject to conditions and a Section 106 Agreement.

Officer contact: Jane Chase on 0161 474 3550 or email: jane.chase@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/081489 for the demolition of existing dwelling and outbuilding and the erection of a replacement dwelling and outbuilding at Holm Lea, Bridle Road, Woodford, it was

RESOLVED - That the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee be recommended to grant planning permission.

Alterations to existing roof including raising of ridge and erection of rear dormer. Extension to rear elevation. Extension to garage and new porch to front elevation. Rendering of property. (Resubmission of DC/080521).

The Area Committee is recommended to grant planning permission subject to conditions.

Officer contact: Sophie Anderson on 0161 474 3295 or email: sophie.anderson@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/081610 for alterations to existing roof including raising of ridge and erection of rear dormer. Extension to rear elevation. Extension to garage and new porch to front elevation. Rendering of property. (Resubmission of DC/080521) at 16 Seal Road, Bramhall,

a representative of the applicant spoke in support of the application.

It was then

RESOLVED – That planning permission be granted.

Rebuilding of warehouse and trade counter following fire.

The Area Committee is requested to recommend that the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee grants planning permission subject to conditions.

Officer contact: Jane Chase on 0161 474 3550 or email: jane.chase@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/081672 for the rebuilding of warehouse and trade counter following fire at Huws Gray, Moor Lane, Woodford,

a representative of the applicant spoke in support of the application.

It was then

RESOLVED – That the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee be recommended to grant planning permission.

Removal of 2no pergola, 2no external waiters' stations, alterations to 2no bay windows in glazed doors, removal of low level glazed grey screens. Erection of a new courtyard pergola with festoon lighting, new covered walkway pergola with festoon lighting, new hotel entrance pergola with warm white festoon lighting, alterations to 2no bay windows to allow for full length windows and double French doors.

The Area Committee is recommended to grant planning permission.

Officer Contact: Jane Chase on 0161 474 3550 or email:

jane.chase@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/081871 for the removal of 2no pergola, 2no external waiters' stations, alterations to 2no bay windows in glazed doors, removal of low level glazed grey screens. Erection of a new courtyard pergola with festoon lighting, new covered walkway pergola with festoon lighting, new hotel entrance pergola with warm white festoon lighting, alterations to 2no bay windows to allow for full length windows and double French doors at Governors House, 43 Ravenoak Road, Cheadle Hulme,

a representative of the application spoke in support of the application.

It was then

RESOLVED – That planning permission be granted subject to the inclusion of an informative that the applicant should implement a management plan for the use of the outside space so as to minimise impact on the neighbouring residents. 

Erection of new boundary piers and gates to front of property.

The Area Committee is recommended to grant planning permission subject to conditions.

Officer contact: Mark Shaw by email: mark.shaw@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/081926 for the erection of new boundary piers and gates to front of property at 30 Moss Lane, Bramhall, it was

RESOLVED – That planning permission be granted.

Reserved Matters approval pursuant to outline planning permission DC053832 in relation to scale, appearance, landscape, and layout for 295 dwelling units, associated green space and infrastructure forming phases 3B,D,E & F.

The Area Committee is requested to recommend that the Planning & Highways Regulation grants planning permission subject to conditions.

Officer contact: Jane Chase on 0161 474 3550 or email: jane.chase@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/082118 for Reserved Matters approval pursuant to outline planning permission DC053832 in relation to scale, appearance, landscape, and layout for 295 dwelling units, associated green space and infrastructure forming phases 3B,D,E & F at Woodford Garden Village, Chester Road, Woodford, it was

RESOLVED - That the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee be recommended to grant planning permission.

To consider a report of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer).

The report summarises recent appeal decisions; lists current planning appeals and dates for local enquiries; informal hearings for planning appeals, and enforcement action within the Bramhall & Cheadle Hulme South Area Committee area.

The Area Committee is recommended to note the report.

Officer contact: Vicki Bates on 474 3219 or email: vicki.bates@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) summarising recent appeal decisions; listing current planning appeals and dates for local enquiries; informal hearings for planning appeals, and enforcement action within the Bramhall & Cheadle Hulme South Area.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.

To consider a report of the Corporate Director (Place) and Deputy Chief Executive.

The report provides the Area Committee with an update on One Stockport frogs and to seek the authorisation of the Area Committee Delegated Budget towards the costs.

The Area Committee is recommended to give approval to the balance of £600 for “Tudor Frog” to be funded from the Bramhall North Ward Delegated Budget.

Officer contact: Helen Waters on 0161 474 3734 or email: helen.walters@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer) submitted a report of the Corporate Director (Place) and Deputy Chief Executive (copies of which had been circulated) providing the Area Committee with an update on One Stockport frogs and to seek authorisation of the Area Committee Delegated Budget towards the costs.

RESOLVED – That approval be given to the allocation of £600 from the Area Committee’s Delegated Budget (Bramhall North Ward Allocation) for the outstanding balance of the ‘Tudor Frog’ located in Bramall Park.

To consider a report of the Strategic Head of Service & Monitoring Officer (Legal & Democratic Governance).

The report requests the Area Committee to nominate Councillors to lay wreaths at Remembrance Day Services at Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme and Woodford War Memorials on 14 November 2021.

The Area Committee is requested to nominate Councillors.

Officer contact: Damian Eaton on 474 3207 or email: damian.eaton@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service & Monitoring Officer (Legal & Democratic Governance) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) requesting the Area Committee to nominate Councillors to lay wreaths at Remembrance Day Services at Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme and Woodford War Memorials on 14 November 2021.

Members noted that Remembrance Services were planned to go ahead as normal across the borough this year, but that plans may change at short notice if further restrictions on public gathering due to the Covid-19 pandemic were reinforced.

RESOLVED – That the following Councillors be appointed to lay wreaths on Sunday, 14 November: -

Bramhall North Memorial – Councillor Lisa Walker

Cheadle Hulme War Memorial – Councillor Helen Foster-Grime

Woodford War Memorial – Councillor John McGahan

To consider a report of the Strategic Head of Service (Legal & Democratic Governance and Monitoring Officer).

The report provides an update on progress since the last meeting on decisions taken by the Area Committee and details the current position on area flexibility funding. The report also includes the current position on the highway and traffic management delegated budget.

The Area Committee is recommended to note the report.

Officer contact: Georgia Latham on 0161 474 3229 or email: georgia.latham@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Strategic Head of Service & Monitoring Officer (Legal & Democratic Governance) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an update on progress since the last meeting on decisions taken by the Area Committee and detailing the current position on area flexibility funding. The report also included the current position on the highway and traffic management delegated budget.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.