Agenda and minutes

To approve as a correct record and sign the Minutes of the meeting held on 29 November 2022.

The Minutes (copies of which had been circulated) of the meeting held on 29 November 2022 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 interests were declared:-

Personal Interest

Personal & Prejudicial Interest

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

No announcements were made.

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 submit questions to the Chair of the Area Committee on any matters within the powers and duties of the Area Committee.

One public question was submitted as follows:-

·         Relating to the ability of the Council to take action regarding restricting the fencing being constructed in Mirrlees Fields, including confirming the status of PWOR 124S between the west end of Barlows Lane South and the rear of 28 Crossfield Grove.

In response, Members commented that in accordance with the Code of Practice, as the question related to a technical matter of fact, a written response would be provided to the questioners and a copy of the response circulated to all Members of the Committee. It was commented that this issue had been raised at full Council, and that Members had contacted the Planning Department and received a response that no update was available. It was requested that a more material update was required.

To receive petitions from members of the public and community groups.

No petitions were submitted.

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.

Sergeant Matthew Lavassani (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 Stepping Hill Area Committee.

The following comments were made/issues raised:-

·         Introductions were made for Inspector Singh, who would be taking over as Area Inspector for Hazel Grove and Marple.

·         It was reported that following special measures in 2020, changes had been made. It was reported that 999 calls were now being answered within 1 second, and that crime was now being recorded more accurately, with better safeguarding in place for investigations. It was stated that on 28 October 2022, GMP was taken out of special measures.

·         It was reported that the amount of crime investigated had reduced which meant investigations could be completed to a higher standard, and that officers could be visible and out within the community.

·         It was reported that Operation Avro in November was a success, which involved 28 arrests, 17 warrants executed, drugs and money seized, 39 traffic offences identified, 8 vehicles seized, and 9 traffic related arrests. Similar operations had occurred once or twice a year in this district and would continue.

·         Individual neighbourhood days of action would occur more frequently, such as a recent Hazel Grove and Marple day of action focused on ASB.

·         It was reported that a new neighbourhood officer for Hazel Grove, PC Jordan Weekly had joined the force.

·         It was reported that a Neighbourhood Crime Team had been set up in August 2022 to focus on burglary, robbery, and vehicle theft which had produced good results.

·         It was reported that Speedwatch was being piloted in High Lane, with interviews and vetting of potential volunteers occurring. Specific dates could not be provided.

·         It was reported that off-road bikes were difficult to police due to risks involved in pursuits. Action would be taken if intelligence was provided to individuals involved, or if stolen bikes are reported. Traffic resources in GMP would be doubled, which it was anticipated would lead to an increase in tactical capability for this issue. Public are encouraged to contact the police with their concerns.

·         Members queried changes to neighbourhood policing model. It was responded that no additional geographic area has been included in Hazel Grove and Marple, but that boundary changes had led to a recommendation of a 20% increase in NBOs in Hazel Grove and Marple. It was offered that an update could be provided to Members by email.

·         Members queried whether PCSOs would be increased. It was responded that this was currently unknown as the decision would be taken at the top of the force.

·         Members queried whether visible policing at an upcoming play area between Devonshire Road and Macclesfield Road could be increased once it had been completed in 6 weeks, as there had been concerns about potential anti-social behaviour. It was responded that the relevant officers would be made aware of this, and that they would be showing increased presence in the area to alleviate concerns.

·         Members queried whether an update could be provided regarding opportunistic crimes around car doors. It was responded that numbers around vehicle crime could be provided to Members. Members of the public were encouraged to report any incidences regardless of whether anything was stolen or damaged, as they would always at a minimum send a PCSO to check CCTV footage. It was stated that the information provided would impact whether it was recorded as a crime or as suspicious circumstances.

·         Members queried whether police surgeries would be continuing. It was responded that the Hazel Grove surgery location had moved, as had the Great Moore surgery. Offerton surgery had been running every four weeks, with two different locations - one in a mobile police station and one at Offerton Library. It was stated that they needed to publicise these more effectively in future.

·         Members queried whether residents’ reports of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.(iv)

To consider an application for Ward Flexibility Funding received from Bee Sober CIC for a grant of £178.60 (£37.60 from Hazel Grove, £70.50 from Offerton and £70.50 from Stepping Hill wards allocation) towards the cost of organising walk and talk events, supplying refreshments, and the printing of leaflets and posters to increase awareness to support those in recovery.

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted an application received on behalf of Bee Sober CIC for a grant from the Ward Flexibility Budget towards the cost of organising walk and talk events, supplying refreshments, and the printing of leaflets and posters to increase awareness to support those in recovery.

It was commented that whilst Members were supportive of the organisation, additional information was required around the location of the company and beneficiaries specified.  

RESOLVED – That the decision be delegated to the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) in consultation with Members of the Area Committee in order not to delay the funding, pending satisfactory information around the beneficiaries of the project.

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 Corporate & Support Services 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 upon payment of the Council’s reasonable charges).

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) outlined the procedure for public speaking on planning applications.

Variation / Removal of Conditions Application – New sports hall and changing rooms. (The application is to remove Condition 2 and to vary Condition 3 of planning approval DC/004252, which granted planning permission for the “New sports hall and changing rooms” on 20th August 2001).

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

Officer contact: Helen Hodgett on 0161 474 3656 or email: helen.hodgett@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/085815 for a Variation / Removal of Conditions Application – New sports hall and changing rooms at Stockport School, Mile End Lane, Great Moor, Stockport, SK2 6BW,

a member of the public spoke against the application; and 

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

It was then

MOVED AND SECONDED – That temporary planning permission be granted for a period of 12 months.

For the motion 4, against 4.

Upon there being an equality of votes, the chair exercised her casting vote against the motion.

MOTION NOT CARRIED

FURTHER MOTION MOVED AND SECONDED – That planning permission be refused on the grounds that the proposed development would lead to an intensification of use of the site, noise generation and traffic congestion which would result in a detrimental impact on residential amenity.

For the motion 3, against 5.

MOTION NOT CARRIED

FURTHER MOTION MOVED AND SECONDED – That planning permission be granted.

For the motion 3, against 5.

MOTION NOT CARRIED

FURTHER MOTION MOVED AND SECONDED – That the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee be recommended to undertake a site visit to assess the impacts of the proposal upon the amenities of the occupiers of neighbouring properties.

For the motion 6, against 2.

MOTION CARRIED.

It was then

RESOLVED – (6 for, 2 against) That the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee be recommended to undertake a site visit to assess the impacts of the proposal upon the amenities of the occupiers of neighbouring properties.

At 8.23 pm it was

RESOLVED – That the meeting be adjourned.

The meeting reconvened at 8.30 pm

Demolition of existing garage and erection of a two storey side and rear extension, removal of existing chimney and associated works, alterations to existing roofline and pitch including installation of dormers at the rear and skylight/roof windows as per the plans and installation of new soil vent pipes (SVP).

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

Officer Contact: Anthony Smith on 0161 474 3569 or email: anthony.smith@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. DC/087193 for the demolition of existing garage and erection of a two storey side and rear extension, removal of existing chimney and associated works, alterations to existing roofline and pitch including installation of dormers at the rear and skylight/roof windows as per the plans and installation of new soil vent pipes (SVP) at 3 Avondale Avenue, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 4PZ, it was

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

To consider a report of the Assistant Director - Legal & Democratic Governance.

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 Stepping Hill Area Committee area.

The Area Committee is recommended to note the report.

Officer contact: Vicki Bates on 0161 474 3219 or email: vicki.bates@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Assistant Director - Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) listing any outstanding or recently determined planning appeals and enforcements within the area represented by the Stepping Hill Area Committee.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         It was queried whether there was update in relation to the enforcement appeal at 61 Chester Road, Hazel Grove. 

·         In response, Members were advised that the appeal had been dismissed and enforcement notice upheld. It was agreed that the full appeal decision would be circulated to Members via email following the meeting.

·         Requested an update report in relation to Lake Street Garage. 

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report details an application from Hazel Grove Carnival Association to hold the Carnival in Torkington Park on Saturday, 15 July 2023.

The Area Committee is recommended to give approval to the application subject to the organiser producing the appropriate papers: event plan, health and safety documentation, licenses and insurances, and paying the fee.

Officer Contact: Jacky Budd on 0161 474 3332 or email: jacky.budd@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted a report of the Director of Place Management (copies of which had been circulated) detailing an application received by the council from Hazel Grove Carnival Association to hold the Carnival in Torkington Park on Saturday, 15 July 2023.

Members thanked the representative of Hazel Grove Carnival Association for their attendance, welcomed the event and it was commented that they and residents had enjoyed the carnival in previous years.

RESOLVED - That approval be given to an application for the Hazel Grove Carnival to be held at Torkington Park on Saturday 15 July 2023, subject to the organiser producing the appropriate papers: event plan, health and safety documentation, licenses and insurances, and paying the fee.

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report details the locations of council-owned parking spaces within the Stepping Hill Area where it is planned to install Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure.

The Area Committee is recommended to comment on and note the report.

Officer contact: Mark Glynn on 0161 474 3700 or email: mark.glynn@stockport.gov.uk or Sue Stevenson on 0161 474 4351 or email: sue.stevenson@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Director of Place Management submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing the locations of council-owned parking spaces within the Stepping Hill Area where it was planned to install Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         It was commented that an increase in charging points in Stockport was desired and were supportive of the locations proposed.

·         Encouraged more electric vehicle charging point locations in the future.

·         It was queried whether electric vehicles would be required to pay the car parking tariff during the use of the charging points.

·         In response it was confirmed that charging electric vehicles were not currently being charged, and that there was no proposal to change this. It was stated that local residents who owned an electric vehicle could also purchase a permit which reduced parking charges.

·         It was queried how private businesses with car parks could be incentivised to offer their own charging points.

·         In response it was stated that electric vehicle charging points would be encouraged as part of planning conditions or building control in future. It was suggested that there would be a natural increase in the roll-out of charging points at the smaller locations of companies, and that the cost of electrical connectivity would probably be the main point of issue with this. Transport for Greater Manchester had recently had a report that they were stepping back from the implementation of electric vehicle charging points, and were instead leaving this to local authorities to enter into agreements with companies. It was suggested that there would be a natural change from local council supported implementation to implementation as a business decision.

·         Members queried whether these bays would be policed as exclusively for electric vehicles.

·         It was responded that the use of current bays as exclusively for charging electric vehicles was enforced by the enforcement team. It was stated that this was expected for the new contract, but this could not be confirmed as a detailed lease had not yet been signed.

·         It was commented that the designation of 40% of bays in the Commercial Road East site exclusively for charging electric vehicles might be excessive based on current electric vehicle usage, and might discourage people without electric vehicles from parking and shopping in the district centre. Members queried why this number was not reduced.

·         It was responded that the Commercial Road East site had received the highest number of requests for charging points out of all proposed sites. It was stated that the company had found this to be a palatable location for the costs of installation, and that there will never be fewer than two rapid chargers installed. It was commented that the infrastructure for two more was not equivalent to an agreement to lease the bays.

·         It was commented that there was a demand for charging points in the Hazel Grove and Commercial Road area.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report provides an overview of the proposed implementation of Speed Indicators Devices (SID’s) in the Stepping Hill Area.

The Area Committee is recommended to support the SID programme and for the Highway Ward Spokespersons for each ward to be authorised to submit four potential locations where they would like the SIDs to be installed.

Officer Contact: Adam Meadowcroft on 07800 618 430 or email: adam.meadowcroft@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Director of Place Management submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing an overview of the proposed implementation of Speed Indicator Devices (SID’S) in the Stepping Hill Area.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         It was commented that this was welcomed as a logical step, and that Members were eager to receive the data reports from the SID’s.

·         It was queried whether this would diminish the ability of the Committee to order automated traffic cameras.

·         In response it was confirmed that there would be no changes to the options available to the Committee as a result of the implementation of the SID’s.

·         It was commented that it would be useful to review the chosen locations following the upcoming elections after the implementation of boundary changes, to ensure an equitable spread across wards. This was noted.

·         Members requested clarification in relation to the costs of the SID’s.

·         In response it was stated that £350 covered 8 weeks at one location, including the device being turned around.

·         It was requested that the whereabouts of £3000 of funding which had previously been allocated to the SID’s be investigated.

RESOLVED – That the Director of Place Management be authorised to determine the locations for the installation of mobile speed indicator devices within the Hazel Grove, Offerton and Stepping Hill wards (four locations per ward) following consultation with the Highway Ward Spokespersons.

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report details a proposal to introduce No Waiting at Any Time restrictions at the junction of Babbacombe Road and Oakland Road in Offerton.

The Area Committee is recommended to give approval to the legal advertising of the following Traffic Regulation Orders and, subject to the receipt of no objections within 21 days of the advertisement date, the subsequent making of the following orders at a cost of £760 to be funded from the Area Committee’s Delegated Budget (Offerton ward allocation):-

No Waiting at Any Time:

Babbacombe Road

Both sides from the South Eastern kerb line of Oakland Avenue for a distance of 10 metres in a South Easterly direction.

Oakland Avenue

South Eastern side from a point 10 metres South West of the South Western kerb line of Babbacombe Road in a North Easterly direction to a point 12 metres North East of the North Eastern kerb line of Babbacombe Road (to tie-in with the aforementioned).

Officer contact: Max Townsend on 0161 474 4861 or email: max.townsend@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted a report of the Director of Place Management (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposal to introduce No Waiting at Any Time restrictions at the junction of Babbacombe Road and Oakland Road in Offerton.

Members commented that residents had raised concerns about parking on the junction of the road as it impeded the ability to turn safely from Babbacombe Road onto Oakland Road and that the restrictions were considered necessary from a safety perspective, while still allowing parking further down the road.

RESOLVED – That approval be given to the legal advertising of the following Traffic Regulation Orders and, subject to the receipt of no objections within 21 days of the advertisement date, the subsequent making of the following orders at a cost of £760 to be funded from the Area Committee’s Delegated Budget (Offerton ward allocation):-

No Waiting at Any Time:

Babbacombe Road

Both sides from the South Eastern kerb line of Oakland Avenue for a distance of 10 metres in a South Easterly direction.

Oakland Avenue

South Eastern side from a point 10 metres South West of the South Western kerb line of Babbacombe Road in a North Easterly direction to a point 12 metres North East of the North Eastern kerb line of Babbacombe Road (to tie-in with the aforementioned).

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report details a proposal to introduce No Waiting at Any Time restrictions at the junction of Chadwell Road and Marple Road in Offerton.

The Area Committee is requested to recommended that the Cabinet Member fir Highways, Parks and Leisure Services approves the legal advertising of the following Traffic Regulation Orders and, subject to the receipt of no objections within 21 days of the advertisement date, the subsequent making of the following orders at a cost of £750 to be funded from the Area Committee’s Delegated Budget (Offerton ward allocation):-

No Waiting at Any Time:

Chadwell Road

Both sides from the Northern kerb line of Marple Road for a distance of 10 metres in a Northerly direction.

Marple Road

North side from a point 15 metres West of the Western kerb line of Chadwell Road in an Easterly direction to a point 10 metres East of the Eastern kerb line of Chadwell Road (to tie in with the aforementioned).

Officer contact: Max Townsend on 0161 474 4861 or email: max.townsend@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted a report of the Director of Place Management (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposal to introduce No Waiting at Any Time restrictions at the junction of Chadwell Road and Marple Road in Offerton.

Members commented that it was difficult to see out of the Chadwell Road, and that this was dangerous as the A road was busy. It was considered that these restrictions were necessary from a safety perspective as people currently parked on the corners, which presented a danger.

RESOLVED – That the Cabinet Member for Highways, Parks and Leisure Services be recommended to give approval to the legal advertising of the following Traffic Regulation Orders, and subject to the receipt of no objections within 21 days, the subsequent making of the orders at a cost of £750 to be funded from the Area Committee’s Delegated Budget (Offerton ward allocation):-

No Waiting at Any Time:

Chadwell Road

Both sides from the Northern kerb line of Marple Road for a distance of 10 metres in a Northerly direction.

Marple Road

North side from a point 15 metres West of the Western kerb line of Chadwell Road in an Easterly direction to a point 10 metres East of the Eastern kerb line of Chadwell Road (to tie in with the aforementioned)..

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report details an application from Circus Starr to hold their Circus in Torkington Park on Saturday, 10 June 2023.

The Area Committee is recommended to give approval to the application subject to the organiser producing the appropriate papers: event plan, health & safety documentation, licenses and insurances, and paying the fee.

Officer Contact: Jacky Budd on 0161 474 3332 or email: jacky.budd@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted a report of the Director of Place Management (copies of which have been circulated) detailing an application received by the council from Circus Starr to hold a circus at Torkington Park on Saturday 10 June 2023.

Members commented that it would be beneficial for officers to engage with residents on High Street. It was noted that Circus Starr seemed to be responsible and that the application was only for a short period.

RESOLVED - That approval be given to an application received from Circus Starr to hold a circus at Torkington Park on Saturday 10 June 2023, subject to the organiser producing the appropriate papers: event plan, health and safety documentation, licenses and insurances, and paying the fee.

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report details an application from Morleys Funfair to hold a Family Funfair at Torkington Park on 29 June - 2 July 2023.

The Area Committee is recommended to give approval to the application subject to the organiser producing the appropriate health & safety documentation, insurances being in place and paying the fee.

Officer Contact: Jacky Budd on 0161 474 3332 or email: jacky.budd@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) submitted a report of the Director of Place Management (copies of which had been circulated) detailing an application received by the council from Morleys Funfair to hold a Family Funfair at Torkington Park on 29th June – 2^nd July 2023.

Members commented that proactive engagement from the neighbourhood team with local residents would be useful as there had been concerns with the Funfair during previous events. It was noted that the end time had been brought forward and that the event was shorter than last year.

RESOLVED - That approval be given to an application from Morleys Funfair to hold a Family Funfair at Torkington Park on 29 June - 2 July 2023, subject to the organiser producing the appropriate health & safety documentation, insurances being in place and paying the fee.

To consider a report of the Assistant Director – Legal & Democratic Governance.

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 Assistant Director - Legal & Democratic Governance (Monitoring Officer) 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.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         It was requested that United Utilities attend a future Committee meeting to respond to issues that residents had been experiencing regarding the water supply.

·         In response it was stated that officers would seek to make arrangements for a representative of United Utilities would be invited to the next meeting of the Committee.

·         Concerns were raised in relation to an example of the parking issues residents were currently experiencing at Stepping Hill Hospital.

·         It was stated that a strongly worded email had been sent by the Cabinet Member to the Chief Executive of the Hospital outlining the concerns of the Committee and dissatisfaction around the delays in reporting.

·         It was reported that an update had been received stating that the Travel Plan was delayed as the Trust required support to deliver the underpinning traffic surveys which would be carried out by AECOM and scheduled to run until 31 January 2023 intended to capture issues around the traffic flow and car parking at the hospital. It was also reported that other issues relating to the delay were due to wider pressures in the NHS at present. It was noted that further communication around the production date of the Travel Plan was promised.

·         It was noted that whilst the traffic surveys were progress in relation to the issue of parking and the Travel Plan, there were concerns that the surveys were meant to of been completed in the previous autumn.

·         Members emphasised that the delays and lack of communication from the Hospital regarding the Travel Plan was not acceptable.

·         It was requested that the Chair be asked to write to the Trust on behalf of the Committee to request an update and request future attendance at a meeting of the Committee.

·         It was noted that there were problems with parking at the Hospital itself including associated issues on neighbouring residential streets.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.