CHAIRMAN’S REPORT MAY 2021 – APRIL 2022
Introduction
When I started writing this report, I, along with everyone else, was hoping that things would be looking a little brighter and were starting to return to some kind of normality. Whilst some things have undoubtedly changed, we still find ourselves in a period of uncertainty, with COVID still affecting us in many ways. In respect of Council activities, and in particular meetings, we started the period covered by this report by continuing to use the temporary powers allowing us to hold virtual meetings. However, this soon came to an end and face-to-face council meetings recommenced in June, although still with an air of caution and precautions being taken. Using a bigger room, keeping windows and doors open for ventilation to mention but two.
In May, the use of virtual meetings was still in force so the Annual Parish meeting, where Councillors express their preferences for the various committees along with nominations for the positions of chair and vice chair of the council, took place. I was once again honoured to be re- elected as Chair of the Council.
During the rest of May, Chairs and Vice Chairs were duly elected for all the committees. As mentioned above, with the legislation permitting virtual meetings coming to an end, from June face to face meetings in the hall restarted.
Whilst it was good to resume meeting in person we did so in the knowledge that both Richard Wickens, our Clerk, and his assistant Heather Alderton were both leaving us. No sooner had we started to see them again only for that to end. It is no exaggeration to say that this council, as with any council, relies so much on the work, support and guidance provided by the office team and I wish to record my deepest thanks for everything they have done for this council.
My thanks also to all Councillors who continue to give their time and effort in trying to ensure Felpham remains the place its residents want it to be.
In particular I would like to thank the respective Chairs of our Committees, Councillor Glen Hewlett for Planning, Licensing& Neighbourhood Plan, Councillor Matthew Copeland for Finance & Administration, Councillor Paul English for Allotments & Open Spaces and Councillor Gloria Moss for Projects and Resilience. Their governance of these Committees is invaluable.
These Committees undertake the majority of the work of the Council and their importance in ensuring we function to the best of our ability is something which cannot be underestimated so I thank them for their efforts.
We started the council year having carried several vacancies for Parish Councillors for some time, recruiting being somewhat difficult due to the COVID situation. However, once we could meet again, we quickly set about the process, and I was very happy to welcome Robert (Bob) Budd and initially Andrew Fells on board. Unfortunately, due to personal circumstances Andrew had to leave us later in the year.
Due to the wide-ranging impact of COVID it is fitting that I again pay tribute to the Felpham Emergency Resilience Group. This group, formed under the umbrella of the Parish Council and led by Councillor Gloria Moss, has throughout the pandemic really stepped up to the mark and helped hundreds of local residents. From collecting prescription medication, to collecting shopping; from conveying people to urgent medical appointments to checking on their welfare; this group of volunteers, which swelled during the pandemic, has responded to thousands of calls from hundreds of people.
The group received national recognition and as one of the lead coordinators I am proud to have played my small part in this remarkable achievement. I, along with Councillor Gloria Moss, wish to express our deepest thanks and gratitude to all our volunteers; you have made a huge difference to so many people.
Some key outputs from the committees during the period of this report:
Planning, Licensing & Neighbourhood Plan Committee
Over the period covered by this report the Planning, Licensing& Neighbourhood Plan Committee has commented on over 100 planning applications.
During early 2022 Bognor Regis Golf Club submitted proposals for the sale of its land for housing development. This would allow it to relocate to a new course to be built alongside the A259. This proposal, it is fair to say was not well received by many Felpham residents and an open session, followed by an extraordinary Planning meeting took place in March 2022 to determine the Council response to the submitted application. The open session was well attended and at the following meeting the decision was to object to the proposal. A total of 47 objections were listed by the Council for this proposed development.
We continue to watch closely how the evolving development plans in neighbouring areas might affect Felpham and the road network in and around our village. Several large housing schemes are under development or review, along with major road improvement projects, including the A27, the A29 and the A259, all of which could have a significant impact on local traffic.
Meetings have been held where plans have been available for discussion, but we remain concerned that data used is not accurate or up to date and that other areas of concern are not being addressed adequately. We will be keeping a close eye on this.
Rampion2; Councillor Glen Hewlett is our representative attending forums associated with this offshore wind farm. He provides the council with regular updates. Based on responses to the Council our position was one of neutrality. We simply could not determine what the feeling was of the majority of Felpham residents. Instead, we ensured all relevant information was available on our website and encouraged individuals to make their own feelings known directly to the consultation.
A proposal by Arun District Council to introduce charges to the two free car parks in Felpham was another issue which the Council did not support, and we objected. For many years we have made annual contributions enabling these to be free to all users. I am pleased to say that the proposal to introduce charges was rejected.
Finance and Administration:
In deciding the budget for 2022/23 the council was acutely aware of the financial challenges its residents have and continue to face. The council has over the past years demonstrated a tight control of its finances whilst also recognising there are activities that need doing to maintain or improve our parish.
During November and December 2021, the various committees agreed and submitted their proposed budgets for 2022/23. As always, the need to balance what is needed to operate the council, along with balancing the need for sensible, justifiable expenditure and allocating funds to projects benefiting the community ensure the deepest of consideration.
One significant factor to take into account was the appointment of a new full-time clerk, replacing our outgoing one who was part time. There was clearly a need for this, and it was recognised that this had the potential to incur some significant costs to the council. However, through a restructuring exercise, involving all staff members, this impact was mitigated.
The final proposals were presented to main council in January 2022 for ratification.
The parish council precept shows a 0% increase and reflects the tight budgetary control of our funds during the year as well as restraint and common sense looking forward. In real terms this equates to a reduction when allowing for inflation.
November 2021 also saw us consider this year’s applications for grants. Determining who is successful is a task that is delegated to the Finance Committee. This is a difficult process and in deciding who is successful we have a strict conditions which applicants must meet. All applications are vigorously reviewed, and awards are made, or declined, as the panel determines the overall benefit to Felpham, its residents and visitors.
Community Hall:
During COVID the use of the hall was extremely limited, and income was negligible. This was not something anyone could have predicted. I know Doug Millen, who has since become our new Clerk, and Karen Woolgar, his replacement, worked hard to ensure that when the hall has been available it has been utilised as much as possible and that the safety of users has been paramount, working diligently to ensure full compliance with all health guidelines. Grants, where available, have been secured which have significantly helped in covering the running costs of the hall. During early 2022 the signs were encouraging that hall use was recovering well.
My thanks to Doug and Karen for their continued efforts in making our hall a success for the community.
Audit
The Council affairs, including its finances are subject to independent audit in compliance with the standards applicable to local government organisations.
Given our new team in place it is particularly pleasing to report that the auditor was satisfied that we are operating correctly and that our finances are well managed, and standards are being correctly applied.
Well done to the team.
Allotments & Open Spaces
Binsted Ponds:
The area has become overgrown and access, unless from a resident’s property, is extremely difficult. The ponds themselves form part of a historical flood control measure for the area and come under Riparian Ownership laws.
Investigations carried out by ADC identified that over time general neglect, and a build-up of silt, may, in extreme cases, impact on the ability of the ponds, and associated drainage, to contribute effectively to the control of serious flooding of this area.
We continue to monitor this situation and consider what other options may be available to us. The preservation of this area as a natural habitat and also its ability to contribute towards flood mitigation, albeit in its current reduced capacity are regularly discussed at our Allotments and Open Spaces Committee meetings.
We have a contract in place to keep the hedge trimmed and we continue to consider the provision of a bench and possible notice board.
Open Spaces
We continue to work closely with ADC and other agencies and interested parties regarding the upkeep of the open spaces around Felpham. New contracts, where necessary have been agreed and we continue to look at how we can improve on our environment.
We receive reports from the two allotments sites that are owned by the Council, and it is clear these are well used and managed.
Footpaths have been a topic of much debate and in particular the land around the Aldingbourne Rife and to the North of Arun Leisure Centre. We have supported others in their efforts in trying to maintain what are well used and established paths across much of this area.
The Council has benefited from the help from an organisation that supports young offenders who give back their time and effort to community projects. This has resulted in additional allotment space being made available and other projects are ongoing.
Projects and Resilience
Fun on the Prom.
The 2021 event was once again cancelled. We took the decision early to do this to avoid any confusion or unnecessary work or commitment from those planning to be involved only to cancel closer to the date.
Work is underway for the event to take place in 2022 on the 20th August. Councillor Gloria Moss leads up a working group which is working hard to ensure this event takes place. After a two year break it is also good to see some new faces, who are bringing some fresh ideas for us to consider.
As always one of our biggest challenges will be securing the help of sufficient volunteers to enable the event to pass off safely and work is underway to try and encourage people to come forward.
Ongoing/Completed Projects: (Not all directly associated with this committee)
Below is a selection of some of the projects either completed or underway.
Defibrillators. Currently we have three and are now in the process of agreeing a site for the fourth.
Outside barbecues. These are in the process of being supplied and form part of our Jubilee activities. (Ongoing)
Traffic Calming and surveys. This is ongoing and discussions continue with WSCC.
The environment. The Council continues to work towards helping the environment. This includes appointing a tree specialist to advise Council.
A new gateway sign on the promenade; situated at the parish boundary with Bognor Regis at the end of Longbrook Park. It would welcome people walking along the prom to Felpham. Ongoing.
A Blue plaque honouring a pioneering explorer. Situated at Fishermans Gardens. As part of our Jubilee activities this now being expanded to create a Blue Plaque Trail.
Renewal of the lights in King George V playing field. Complete. Renewal of the lights along Felpham Promenade. Complete.
The Council Office
The Clerk to The Council
Richard Wickens, our Clerk, advised me in March 2021 that he was leaving and that August would be his final month. I have had the pleasure of getting to know and work with Richard for around 6 years.
When I joined the council, he helped me understand the way it worked, and his support was invaluable when I became Chairman. Without his guidance, support, knowledge, and patience it would have been a much harder experience for me, and I cannot say a big enough thank you. His advice to the Council has always ensured we acted in the proper manner and his guidance through challenging moments has been invaluable.
The Assistant to the Clerk to The Council
Heather Alderton our Assistant to The Clerk also tendered her resignation in mid-April, leaving us in July. This added to the disappointment of losing Richard and again I express my thanks for the hard work she put in since the time I have been associated with the Council.
I wish both Richard and Heather good luck, good fortune, and good health for the future.
The process of recruitment for such key posts is never easy. Recruitment laws and processes are constantly evolving. In a challenging market making jobs appealing, thereby ensuring you attract the best people for the job is crucial in the overall process.
After a thorough and detailed recruitment process, we were happy to appoint Doug Millen, our previous Hall manager to the position of Clerk, Nicola Meaney as the Administration Assistant to the Council and Karen Woolgar as the Community Hall Administration Assistant.
Summary
This report is a snapshot of some of the key issues facing the Council during the year. As always reading the minutes of the Committees will give a much broader and more informative view of the work undertaken, not only by Main Council but also the four Committees and various subgroups.
It was pleasing to welcome members of the public to some of our meetings and I hope they found the meetings informative and when questions were asked, we were able to answer them in a manner which was useful.
So, an interesting, busy and extremely challenging year. Has it all been plain sailing? No, and nor would we expect it to be. Debate is the backbone of democracy and listening to other views, respecting that others may see things differently and engaging in respectful, open and constructive dialog is a fundamental part of fair and honest decision making. COVID is still with us, but we will continue to play our part in trying to ensure Felpham has its voice. It challenged the way that we operate, and the ability for us to continue, through the use of virtual meetings was something we all had to embrace.
We recognise we cannot please all the people all of the time but hope that people recognise that we try to represent the views and interests of the majority and that of the village as a whole.
I finish by quoting a saying from a famous politician from many years ago and which hopefully mirrors my approach and commitment to all that I do: “How little we should worry about anything except doing our best”.
Stay safe and stay well.
Dave Smart
Chairman Felpham Parish Council 25th April 2022
FELPHAM PARISH COUNCIL CHAIRMAN’S REPORT MAY 2020 – APRIL 2021
I cannot continue with my annual report without first recognising the impact coronavirus has had on everyone’s lives and the function of our council? Things have been challenging, and everyone has worked hard to make the new “Un-normal” as near to “Normal” as possible.
The first UK lockdown came at a time when the council was nearing its end of its operational year and in early May, we would have held our annual meeting when Councillors would have expressed their preferences for the committees they wished to be part of. Nominations would also have been made for the positions of chair and vice-chair of the council plus the chairs and vice-chairs of the respective committees. Because of the current situation, and as per the Government legislation put in place allowing us to do so, it was proposed and agreed unanimously that the existing structure of the council would continue until May 2021, with no change to any chair or vice-chair positions. This means that I am once again honoured to hold the position of chair of the council.
Since May all our meetings, in line with Government guidelines, have been held using Virtual Reality. I wish to thank all Councillors, the Clerk and his assistant, and the Hall Manager, for the way in which they have approached this new method of working and tried to ensure that wherever possible business continues. In January, to further protect against the transmission of covid-19, the Council agreed to distribute all documentation via email, therefore reducing the need for someone to copy and distribute hard copies. This will be reviewed when lockdown ends.
I would also like to express my own thanks to Richard Wickens and Heather Alderton for all their hard work and support throughout the year is invaluable to me. More about Richard and Heather later.
My thanks also to all Councillors who continue to give their time and effort in trying to ensure Felpham remains the place we and its residents want it to be.
We always face challenges in filling Parish Councillor vacancies and traditionally few people tend to come forward. With two vacancies early in the year, and in July Matt Rumsey leaving due to work commitments the number of vacancies is now three.
Fortunately, we have had several people come forward and show interest in becoming a Parish Councillor. Unfortunately, due to the way the selection process is conducted we have had to delay the recruitment process until we can all meet in the Community Hall. This process will be undertaken as soon as possible. The selection process will be difficult, and for some disappointing, as we have more candidates than vacancies so some will be unsuccessful.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic Felpham Emergency Resilience Group has come into its own. The group was activated in early April and very quickly we had around 40 volunteers willing to help those in need in our parish as well as neighbouring ones where little or no support was available.
The group has responded to hundreds of calls and delivered thousands of prescription medicines as well as picking up pre-paid shopping and providing support to those lonely or seeking some form of contact.
Update on a few ongoing projects/activities:
Binsted Ponds:
The area has become overgrown and access, unless from a resident’s property, is extremely difficult. The ponds themselves form part of a historical flood control measure for the area and come under Riparian Ownership laws.
Investigations carried out by ADC identified that over time general neglect, and a build-up of silt, may, in extreme cases, impact on the ability of the ponds, and associated drainage, to contribute effectively to the control of serious flooding of this area.
We have identified the building company that own’s a small segment of land and we are actively trying to engage with them to hopefully transfer ownership to the Parish Council. Unfortunately, despite the Assistant to the Clerk repeatedly trying to contact them, the impact of covid-19 is delaying matters significantly. We shall continue to try and resolve this.
We have a contract in place to keep the hedge trimmed and we are considering the provision of a bench and possible notice board.
Fun on the Prom.
The 2020 event, which was planned for Saturday 22nd August, would have marked the 20th anniversary of the event. Reluctantly we felt we had no choice but cancel the event due to the pandemic.
With the ongoing impact of the pandemic, we have also now cancelled the 2021 event as well.
Whilst we understand people are looking forward to getting out and about this summer, and attractions are desperate to earn income, we simply cannot put people at risk and do not believe that we can fully adhere to local Government guidelines for events such as this.
Projects
Over the past year several projects continued, including:
3 x extra seafront lights at the Western end of Felpham Prom. Completed o These cover the area alongside Longbrook Park towards Sea Road
Extra dog waste bins across the area. Completed
Extra recycling bins. Completed
Provision of a third defibrillator. Completed
o The council now has three defibrillators across the parish (located at the end of Blakes Road, outside Boots chemist in Felpham Road, and outside the Community Hall in Meaden Way
Outside barbecue areas in Longbrook Park. (Ongoing)
Provision of extra hanging baskets through the village in conjunction with FVCS. This is on
hold due to the pandemic (Ongoing)
Planting of tree coppices across the parish to improve the scene and support the environment (WSCC &ADC) This is on hold due to the pandemic. Several new projects have been proposed, including:
A new gateway sign on the promenade; situated at the parish boundary with Bognor Regis at the end of Longbrook Park. It would welcome people walking along the prom to Felpham. Ongoing.
A Blue plaque honouring a pioneering explorer. Ongoing.
The possible provision of more benches around the Parish. Ongoing
Renewal of the lights in King George V playing field. Complete.
Renewal of the lights along Felpham Prom. Ongoing
Other ideas have been put on hold and will be considered in the future.
Budget:
In deciding the budget for 2021/22 the council must balance the need for tight control of its finances whilst also recognising there are activities that need doing around our parish to maintain or improve our village.
During November and December 2020, the various committees agreed and submitted their proposed budgets for 2021/22. This is always a challenging time as the council tries to balance the need for sensible, justifiable expenditure and allocating funds to projects benefiting the community, whilst also trying to minimise the impact of these on the precept.
The final proposals were presented to the Finance committee for approval in December 2020 and they were agreed to go forward to main council in January 2021 for ratification.
The parish council precept shows a 0% increase and reflects the tight budgetary control of our funds during the year as well as restraint and common sense looking forward. We recognise many people will have suffered financially during the pandemic, so we were keen to not make any increase in this year’s precept. My thanks to all concerned.
November 2020 saw the council consider this year’s grants applications. Determining who is successful is a task that is delegated to the Finance Committee and I know it is a difficult one.
The applications are all vigorously reviewed, and awards are made, or declined, as the panel determines the overall benefit to Felpham, its residents and visitors.
Because of the pandemic and first lockdown my previous Chairman’s award, which should have been handed over during the annual awards evening in April 2020, was significantly delayed. The awards evening was also cancelled. My decision on the recipient was made in January 2020, well before the pandemic struck, but when the order was placed for the trophy the supplier had to close and subsequently went out of business. It took many months to find another company and as the country adjusted to various restrictions this had a further impact on us receiving the trophy. Eventually it arrived in October and was duly awarded to the Post Office for the Pop-Up Shop initiative.
The 2021 awards evening also had to be cancelled and those successful in their applications will have received their cheques through the post.
After much thought I have decided it would be inappropriate for me to present a Chairman's award this year. With the pandemic there are so many fantastic individuals, organisations, and businesses locally who have been working hard to help others, support their community and do far more than should ever be expected of them that I cannot (and will not) chose just one for my award. They are all deserving, and they should all have some recognition for the contribution they have made to Felpham at this time of crisis. The Chairman’s Award is personal, and I cannot justify making any other decision than this one. I hope others will understand and respect that.
Significant issues worthy of special comment:
Community Hall:
During 2020 and early 2021 the use of the hall was limited, and income was seriously reduced. This was not something anyone could have predicted. I know Doug, the Hall Manager has worked hard to ensure that when the hall has been available it has been utilised as much as possible and that the safety of users has been paramount, working diligently to ensure full compliance with all health guidelines. Doug has secured several grants which have significantly helped in covering the running costs of the hall. He has also kept in contact with all hall users prior to the pandemic with a view to welcoming them back when conditions allow.
My thanks to Doug for his continued efforts in making our hall a success for the community.
Neighbourhood Plan and Design Guide:
Because of changes to the ADC Local Plan the council carried out a review of these two policies. Consultation took part during the summer of 2019 and the revised documents were submitted for consideration. The inspecting officer felt that the changes needed further consultation so in early 2020 a second consultation took place.
Based on the responses we believe the revised documents have encompassed the changes and will provide sound and robust guidance and protection to the future development of Felpham.
In early 2021 we were pleased to hear our revised plan was fully endorsed and accepted by Arun District Council. It is now a key document in ensuring any future development, or change to Felpham, must meet certain criteria aimed at protecting our village and its appearance.
Nearby Local Development:
We continue to watch closely how the evolving development plans in neighbouring areas might affect Felpham and the road network in and around our village. Several large housing schemes are under development or review, along with major road improvement projects, including the A27, the A29 and the A259, all of which could have a significant impact on local traffic.
Meetings have been held where plans have been available for discussion, but we remain concerned that data used is not accurate or up to date and that other areas of concern are not being addressed adequately. We will be keeping a close eye on this as it develops.
Additional items of note include:
Rampion2; Councillor Glen Hewlett is our representative attending forums associated with this offshore wind farm. He provides the council with regular updates.
The installation of a new pedestrian crossing in the village centre.
Agreement to renew the light fittings on the blue promenade lights. The existing lights are life expired, and we will soon be installing the latest solar technology supporting our commitment to the environment.
We introduced a practical and responsible policy on vermin control with the St Michaels allotment holders.
West Sussex Association of Local Councils (WSALC)
An issue arose which directly affected the Council and its membership of WSALC. We were advised in late 2020 of a decision taken by the directors of WSALC to move away from its previous links with East Sussex and Surrey Associations and the service provider SSALC, and to align themselves with the Hampshire Association of Local Councils.
This decision angered many local Parish Councils and resulted in the existing board of directors, and overall governance of WSALC, undergoing significant change. The new WSALC, which much closer reflects and represents the wishes and needs of Parish Councils, is working to rebuild relationships damaged during late 2020 and early 2021.
As a member of WSALC, Parish Councils have access to legal, HR, Financial advice and training courses for its members. It also supports our membership of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).
Richard Wickens, our Clerk, advised me in March that he was leaving. That was, without doubt, one of the worst things I could have heard as Chairman. I have had the pleasure of getting to known and work with Richard for around 6 years. When I joined the council, he helped me understand the way it worked, and his support was invaluable when I became Chairman. Without his guidance, support, knowledge, and patience it would have been a much harder experience for me, and I cannot say a big enough thank you. His advice to the Council has always ensured we acted in the proper manner and his guidance through challenging moments has been invaluable.
I know I, and my fellow Councillors, will miss him and when he hands over to a new Clerk it will be an extremely hard and sad day. A simple thank you will never do justice to the gratitude we all owe Richard.
The Assistant to the Clerk to The Council
Heather Alderton our Assistant to The Clerk also tendered her resignation in mid-April and will be leaving at the end of May. This further compounds the disappointment of losing Richard and again I express my thanks for the hard work she has put in since the time I have been associated with the Council.
The Council faces some challenging times over the coming months as it tries to fill both these positions. Inevitably some activities may take longer, and some projects may take a little longer than hoped, but business will continue as best it can.
I wish both Richard and Heather good luck, good fortune, and good health for the future.
So, an interesting, and extremely challenging year. Hopefully, the Council can look forward to something near normality in the not-too-distant future. In the meantime, please stay safe and stay well.
Dave Smart
Chairman Felpham Parish Council 23rd April 2021