Good news

There is some good news on the planning front with two controversial applications being refused by the planning committee on June 21st. The first of these was the proposed development by Wilsons of a car storage facility on land at Kiln Lane behind Dagenham Motors. This was recommended for refusal by the officer, and turned down by committee largely because of the impact of the proposed access road. This area of land was designated as a buffer zone in the 1989 local plan but seems to have 'lost' this in the 2000 one. I hope it is possible to get it redesignated during the forthcoming plan review.

Around 30 letters opposing the development were written by residents, along with representations from Ewell Village Residents Association. I am sure this grassroots opinion helped ensure this did not get the green light. Well done to everybody!

The second success involved the plan to put six homes on the site on Epsom Road, near Shaw Close, known as Chasanhill. Originally it was proposed to refuse this 'just' on the grounds that it would have removed a valuable tree and other planting. However some sterling work by Councillor Michael Arthur added some additional points for refusal relating to traffic, parking, change of character and density. I am sure the applicant will appeal, but hopefully we have some good defences in place against this development, which would alter the character of this part of the Borough.



Some other points of note for residents:

• Bourne Hall asbestos removal. This will take about 6-8 weeks and the cafe will be moved downstairs and the museum will be closed during this period. Consultation with the public about the future site of cafe will take place.

• Environmental improvements in Ewell Village. Councillors have agreed to fund new fencing in Bourne Hall to improve appearance and security - subject to possible planning permission.

• The investigation into contaminated land in Dirdene Gardens, Dirdene Grove and Beaconsfield Place has now concluded. Of 140 properties tested, only 1 has minor further tests to be carried out. Approx. 22 other potentially contaminated sites in Ewell Ward remain to be tested over the coming months and years! This work, the result of EU legislation, will run and run, causing great anxiety to those affected.

• The next Police ‘neighbourhood panel will take place on July 3rd at 8pm in Bourne Hall. Come along and meet your local PC, Steve Mould, and CSO Caroline Tims. It is an informal meeting and you are welcome to air any views you may have.

• Gib Rec update. I have asked for the benches to be refurbished, foliage pruning and landscaping of ‘mound’ in corner. I have met with the officer Steve Davis to discuss these things and also the possibility of moving the lights along the poor quality outer footpath to the more central one that everybody uses. He will now consult with Surrey County Council on this matter.

He has also promised to undertake some drain cleaning to try and resolve the flooding problems that occur in the park and obstruct the footpaths.