APCA Minutes

MINUTES
4th February 2024
Abbey Park Community Association Committee

Present:- Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew ( in the Chair), Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Catherine Bailey.

Apologies Simom Middlecote, Caroline Stone, Joanne McDonald

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
The minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 7th November 2023 were noted.

MATTERS ARISING
It was reported that the no cycling signs for Black/ Back Alley were on the way to be provided by Via.
Councillor Penny Gowland was to raise with Rushcliffe consideration of bonfires being included in the proposed smoke free zone.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Ruth gave details of the income and expenditure. She reported that the bill for the public liability insurance had been paid.
It was AGREED that a £50 donation be made to Linjoy Wildlife Rescue for the support they have provided to the local wildlife. ACTION RUTH

PARK
It was reported that roses would be planted on the corner of Black Alley and Nearsby and Waltham.
Fifteen new trees had been planted on the field, some to replace ones which had died.
A suggestion was made about having a willow woven creation by the wooden steps on the field. Abbey Circus field was also suggested as a location. It was noted that Rushcliffe’s approval would be needed.
There was a discussion about the wildflower area on the field last year and whether it could be repeated this year. It was suggested that a smaller area be planted this year. Volunteers would be sought.
It was AGREED that
Sue would find out who did the willow weaving on West Bridgford Park
Sue would chase up Rushcliffe about the provision of the benches on the park.
Sue would approach Wendy to see if she would be willing to coordinate volunteers for the wildflower area.
Simon to report back on progress with the gym equipment.

ROADS AND PARKING
There was a discussion about the confusion over the signage for speed limits in the area with some parts being 20mph and some 30mph but the signage not being clear
It was AGREED that Councillor Penny Gowland would look into these issues and report back.

LITTER PICKING
The litter picking group had 8 people participating last time. The next session was on Sunday 3rd March.

COMMUNICATION
It was AGREED that information will be put on the notice board of the dates of the mobile library visiting, Councillors contact details and notes of the Community Association meetings. ACTION: SUE

POLLUTION MONITOR
There was a discussion about having a pollution monitor outside the schools,
It was AGREED that the Councillor Penny Gowland would look into the possibility of this being obtained.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS
It was reported that WEBCAN were making arrangements for a first aid course to take place and had invited the Community Association to take a place.

DATE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING
Tuesday 7th May 2024 at 7pm at the Community Association.

CHAIRS REPORT - 2022-2023 APCA meeting 7th November 2023

APCA have continued to meet through the last 12 month period to facilitate projects, raise issues with other bodies and to bring together the community. Projects and issues addressed this year have included the following.

Abbey Park Green Community Gardens
Sue and Joan have once again excelled at looking after the community gardens. The whole community owes them a debt of gratitude for the huge number of hours that are spent on looking after these areas.
Thanks also to Catherine, John and David for the work they have done clearing areas on Waltham Close.

Park improvements
After careful consideration with local residents and Rushcliffe Borough Council we look forward to the installation of two benches on the park in the near future. These will provide important opportunities for local residents to access the park and address and direct need that has been raised with the committee.
Opportunities for further tree planting near the existing copse have been discussed with Rushcliffe Borough Council.

Abbey Park Summer Gathering
Despite the inclement weather, September saw another successful summer gathering which brought the community together and raised funds which will be put towards projects in the coming year.
All of this work helps to maintain Abbey Park’s special distinctive character and helps to make it such a great place to live.

Litter picking
The litter picking group has continued to meet regularly. Many thanks to all involved and in particular Ruth for organising this.

Window Advent Calendar
Once again 25 windows were dressed for advent bringing more than a splash of Christmas cheer to the area. The event will be held again this year and we all look forward to the displays.

Book Group, Games Night, Knitting and Sewing Group
These groups continue to meet at the Willow Tree.

Remembrance Tributes
The poppy displays grow in size and complexity year on year. Many thanks to all involved in the amazing displays. This year they have been augmented by the lamp post poppies. Many thanks to Catherine for making them and Lol for putting them up!

Highways improvements
After continually raising the issue, yellow lines have now been implemented newar the junction of Buckfast Way and Abbey Road as well as the corner of Rufford Way opposite the Willow Tree. This will improve the safety of pedestrians particularly those walking to the schools across Buckfast Way.

Community Planters
The planters outside the shops on Abbey Road have been prepared and filled with plants by the committee with local businesses engaged in maintaining them. Plants will be refreshed twice a year with funds from the community association.

Grantham Canal
Links with the WeBCan group which Ruth is facilitating to help protect and improve the canal which is such a key element of Abbey Park life for many.

Linjoy Wildlife Sanctuary
In the past year Linjoy have provided assistance with injured foxes and swans in the Abbey Park area. To recognise this APCA have made a small donation to this charity to say thank you for their efforts.

Thanks
Thanks to all who have served on the committee over the past year and also to RBC and Notts County Councillor Penny Gowland for attending meetings and supporting APCA activities. And finally, thanks to community of Abbey Park area for continuing to make it such a wonderful place to live and work.

Kind regards,
Simon Middlecote – Chair

Email - abbeypark.ng@gmail.com

MINUTES of the Abbey Park Community Association Committee AGM

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair), Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Caroline Stone, Liz Smith, Councillor Steve Calvert

APOLOGIES:- Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Catherine Bailey.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING
It was noted there was an error on the outstanding bill to Streetwise. The actual amount still to be paid is £239.92

CHAIR’S ANNUAL REPORT
Simon outlined the projects and activities the Association had been able to undertake over the last 12 months. These included the window advent calendar, the Abbey Park Summer Gathering, all the community gardeners including John, Catherine & David , new planters on Abbey Road, litter picking group, Book Club and Board games night and the super displays of poppies at the Notice Board and the Willow Tree Pub. A copy of the full report will posted on the website and notice board.

TREASURER’S ANNUAL REPORT
Ruth gave details of the income and expenditure over the last year, noting there were still monies to be paid to Streetwise for the work they completed on Waltham Drive. Please see separate spreadsheet outlining income and expenditure. Copies will also be posted on the website and notice board.

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
The following appointments to the Committee were agreed for the following year:-
Chair – Simon Middlecote
Vice-Chair – Sue Andrews
Treasurer and Website – Ruth Kerry
Secretary – Caroline Stone
Notetaker – Chris Holmes
Committee members : Catherine Bailey, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington.

SUMMER GATHERING
There was a debrief about the summer gathering. The weather had impacted numbers attending, but It was felt that it was a worthwhile event and that going forward, it would be useful to look at ways of incorporating local businesses would be a positive move.

GREEN SPACE IMPROVEMENTS
The trees are now settling in on the park though the growth around them continues to be a problem. A date needed to be set to spend an hour clearing the ground around the bases of each tree to help prevent disease and promote growth. The use of a grass strimmer which RK was happy to donate would be used in future to help prevent further issues.
The two benches are to be installed in their locations in the not too distant future.
Agreement was given for a Lengths-man funding payment for the charging of the electric lawn mower.
Simon said that there was a possibility of new trees being added to the park and he was in contact with Tom Petit regarding this.
It was agreed that new planters be considered for the Hilton Crescent area/
Councillor Steve Calvert spoke about CIL funding that was becoming available and that could possibly be used for Gym equipment on the park. RK has already been in contact with RBC regarding this and shall pass them over to SM. Simon will look at putting together a short proposal for the upcoming funding.

No 7 BUS
This continues to be an issue for residents at the lower end of Buckfast way. Particularly those in the Metropolitan Housing as they are generally elderly and or disabled. It was suggested that Neil Singh (in conjunction with WB Local Area Forum) do a survey of the residents to ascertain the need

GRANTHAM CANAL
Since the loss of water last year, a new group WeBCan have been formed and are working in partnership with the CRT & the Environmental Agency. Many working parties have been held where clearance of reeds and self seeding trees have been removed. There is a lot of investigatory work being carried out and regular updates are posted on out website. WWW.abbeyparkng.com

ADVENT CALENDAR
Again, all 24 dates had been taken up and a map is to be made available giving details of which houses were participating. This will be posted on the website and APL Facebook Group

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Abbey Park 50 years
It was noted that in 2026, Abbey Park will be 50 years old and the committee should consider plans for a celebration

Sue Andrews said that residents have asked about a Halloween event for Best Pumpkin. This was to be considered for future years.
It was agreed to move the AGM to Spring to make it more accessible for residents.

An agreement was made to give a donation to Linjoy Wildlife Rescue for the support they have provided to the local wildlife.

Coucillor Steve Calvert mentioned the following

Grit Bins - Private grit bins available - This was felt unnecessary as we have the council bins in place for the bus route and Metropolitan housing

Abbey Circus Fencing- New fencing was almost complete and it was hoped it would enhance the area further. Unfortunately, graffiti has been spotted on the large electricity station there and the War Bunker.

No Cycling Signs - are to be placed along Black/Back Alley. It was noted that school children should be encouraged to use cycles and the problems incurred along this stretch were usually adults, particularly this with electric bikes.

Tewksbury Close Parking - New marking are now in place and have helped to some degree.

Pot Holes - Most pot holes have now been repaired though it was noted that Covert Road is still problematic.

Allotment Bonfires - Signs are now up around the three allotment areas to discourage allotment holders from having bonfires at certain times of the year. It was noted that the secretaries for each site were acutely aware of the distress the fires course and were prepared to act quickly with anyone ignoring the rules.

The meeting closed at 8.30pm.

Minutes of meeting 12th June 2023

Minutes

Present:- Simon Middleton (Chair),Ruth Kerry (Treasurer), Sue Andrew, Caroline Stone, Helen Hetherington, Councillor Penny Gowland, Jo Mansfield and Steve Calvert
Apologies:- Chris Holmes and Jo Whittingham

MINUTES
Minutes of the last meeting held on 18/04/2023 were confirmed and noted.

FINANCE & BANK ACCOUNT
Tresurer (Ruth Kerry) reported that current balance of APCA Bank account is £1353.54 and there have been no new purchases since last meeting.
• Outstanding bill from Streetwise of £25.00
• Catherine has sold some plant for the sumo £19.00 and will be donating that to our account
• Due to previous difficulty in obtaining correct invoicing for the hire of the community centre for open meetings, discussed negotiating free use of the community centre for as it benefits the local residents. (Simon to Email )

GARDENING ISSUES
• Some areas around Abbey Park not always having the green areas mowed , plan to identify these and utilise some of the Landsman Money to pay for a local gardener to mow certain areas
• Black Alley behind Waltham Close, on going need to keep pathways clear as requested by some people, but keeping it tamed rather than severely cut back and at the right time of year , to prevent damage to wild life and encourage the natural re seeding , especially of the areas of wild flower growth. (Sue happy continuing ongoing liaison with Streetwise and Notts County Council )
• Committees ongoing thanks to Sue, Joan and Catherine with all the hard work they provide for the gardening areas that benefit the whole community.

GYM EQUIPMENT
In regard to the ongoing pain to provide some gym equipment on Abbey Park near the children’s play ground, Ruth reported that she has been in contact with Derek Hayden (Communities Manager for Rushcliffe Borough Council . Mr Hayden reported that the provision of new gym equipment was been looked last as part of the 2nd phase of use of Section 106 monies acquired following the redevelopment of the depot on Abbey Road (Financial year 2024/2025). He stated that in recent year the Council were retreating from the use of multi highly mechanised equipment and using equipment that focused on body weight exercises in a smaller area of space
Plan to advertise to the local area asking for input.

BENCHES
Simon reported that following widespread local consultation, there was no new negative feedback for a bench located by the new orchard area on the park
However there were objections from 2 properties regarding the bench at the Notice Board due to possible unsocial behaviour , this location to be discussed further.
Simon will liaise with Tom Pettit about a possible path to the bench location near the orchard and having a bin adjacent.

SOCIAL EVENTS
Summer Picnic/Party in the Park , date confirmed at Sun 10th September 1400 -1600. Last years successful format to be repeated with sub committee meeting organised for 07/08/2023

Litter Picking , ongoing on every last Sunday in the month and continues to be very productive and helpful in keeping the environment tidy and safe, Committee thanks to Ruth with her organisation of this.

OTHER BUSINESS
Repeated requests to the Council and Bus operators to extend the No 7 to loop around the bus turning area on Buckfast Way to provide essential services for elderly residents living in the residential community
Monitoring of the current problematic parking and stopping around the access areas to the schools... Liaise with Jo Whitingham
Sources of communication for APCA are Closed Facebook Group, Website and Notice Board.
Next Community Meeting October 3rd 2023 Buckfast Way Community | Centre

Minutes of meeting 18th April 2023

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Joanne Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Catherine Bailey, Caroline Stone, Amit Garg, Jo Whittingham, Steve Duckworth, Edna Holmes, Linda Chenoweth, Barry Daffran
Also in attendance: Julie Chaplain (Co-op)

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
The minutes of the meeting held on 6th February 2023 were noted.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Ruth gave details of the income and expenditure. She reported that £960 had been received from the County Council for work Sue had done under the lengthman scheme. A breakdown of costs was identified in relation to gardening totalling about £250. The bill from Streetwise for £240 for the work on elders on Waltham was still awaited. It was suggested that some planters and plants be obtained for Abbey Road outside the shops.
It was AGREED
That planters and plants be purchased for outside the shops on Abbey Road.
That Sue Andrew be thanked for the work she had undertaken under the lengthman scheme.

PARK AND GREEN SPACE IMPROVEMENTS
1.Community Garden
A group from St Lukes Toddlers had undertaken an activity at the community garden on Waltham. An easter egg hunt there had raised £60 for the Meadows Food Bank. It was reported that there were funds available from Rushcliffe’s Biodiversity Fund.

2.Gym Equipment
It was noted that an application could be made to the Co-op for funding of local community projects.
It was AGREED that Ruth would discuss with Julie Chaplain at the Co-op about the possibility of submitting an application for funding of the gym equipment.

3.Benches
Rushcliffe has agreed to provide 2 benches and locations have been suggested, one under the streetlight by the orchard and the other by the noticeboard. These would be metal benches and Rushcliffe would adopt them. Rushcliffe had asked for the 8 nearest properties to be consulted on the proposals and letters had been delivered giving 4 weeks to respond. There was a feeling that the 2 properties on Furness should also be consulted.
It was reported that Rushcliffe would provide either a tree or a bench to mark the coronation.
It was AGREED
1.that consultation letters be sent to the 2 last houses on Furness.
2.that litter bins be requested to be placed by the benches.
3. to suggest that a bench be placed on Eltham by the canal to mark the coronation.

ROADS AND PARKING
The green verge at the Abbey Road end of Buckfast Way and cars parking on the grass was still a problem.
The bend by the Willow Tree was the subject of public consultation by the County about putting double yellow lines on the road.
Parking by the schools during at the start and end of the school day was still a problem. It was suggested that an action day be arranged

LITTER PICKING
The next litter picking session would be on Sunday 30th April.

SUMMER GATHERING
It was AGREED that the 2023 summer gathering to be held on Sunday 10th September from 2pm to 4pm on the field should be publicised on the website and Facebook page. The detailed plans would emerge at a later stage

DATE OF NEXT MEETING
Monday 12th June 2023 at 7pm at the Willow Tree.

Minutes of meeting held on 6th February 2023

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Catherine Bailey, Caroline Stone.
Apologies Joanne McDonald

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
The minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 25th October 2022 were noted.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Ruth gave details of the income and expenditure. She reported that the bill for the website domain had been paid and a grant of £175 had been received from Councillor Penny Gowland’s Council’s divisional fund for roses. An estimate had been received from Streetwise to level off and kill the roots of elder bushes growing on land on Waltham which did not have an owner. It was reported that a fork and spade had been broken in tackling overgrown areas and it was felt the Association should fund replacements.
It was AGREED
1. That the work on Waltham by Streetwise be authorised.
2. That a replacement fork and spade be obtained.
3. That approval be given to Sue to purchase plants.

GYM EQUIPMENT
Consideration was given to a draft expression of interest form to be submitted to the West Bridgford Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Fund for the provision of outdoor adult gym equipment on the field. The completion of the form was discussed. It was noted that there would need to be a public consultation about the proposal.
It was AGREED that Simon would find out from Rushcliffe what consultation method was required and over what period.

BENCHES
Rushcliffe has agreed to provide 2 benches and locations have been suggested, one under the streetlight by the orchard and the other by the noticeboard. There is now a need to carry out consultation on the proposals.

ROADS AND PARKING
Reference was made to the green verge at the Abbey Road end of Buckfast Way and how cars parking on the grass had turned it to mud. The following solutions were suggested : the double yellow lines be extended; a parking bay be created or bollards.
Parking problems on the bend by the Willow Tree ware also raised. There was also an issue with the dropped kerb there being blocked by parked cars.
It was AGREED that Councillor Penny Gowland would look into these issues and report back.

LITTER PICKING
The litter picking group were continuing to go out each month but there still seemed lots of litter about in the area.

SUMMER GATHERING
It was AGREED that the 2023 summer gathering be held on Sunday 10th September from 2pm to 4pm on the field.

COMMUNICATIONS
It was AGREED that the details of the Association website be pinned to the top of the Abbey Park Facebook page

ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Ruth reported that she had been appointed to the Grantham Canal West End Group Committee as a representative of the Association.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 18th April at 7pm at the Community Association.

25th October 2022 Abbey Park Community Association Committee AGM Minutes

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Lesley Morris, Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Catherine Bailey, Andy Stone , Caroline Stone, Eddie O’Rourke, Linda Chenoweth.
CHAIR’S ANNUAL REPORT
Simon outlined the projects and activities the Association had been able to undertake over the last 12 months. These included the window advent calendar, the Abbey Park orchard and ‘minor’ oak, playground improvements, the Abbey Park Summer Gathering, community gardeners, litter picking group, Book Club and Board games night, display of poppies, and bike marking session by Notts Police.
A copy of the full report was to be put on the website and notice board.
Comment was made that the Association now had a voice with the local council separate from the local councillors.
It was agreed that a thank you note be sent to the pupils at Edmund Campion who had helped water the trees.
TREASURER’S ANNUAL REPORT
Ruth gave details of the income and expenditure over the last year. She reported that there were more than sufficient funds to meet the bills for the website domain and insurance cover.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
The following appointments to the Committee were agreed for the following year:-
Chair – Simon Middlecote
Vice-Chair – Sue Andrews
Treasurer and Website – Ruth Kerry
Secretary – Caroline Stone
Notetaker – Chris Holmes
Committee members : Lesley Morris, Catherine Bailey, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Joanne McDonald.
SUMMER GATHERING
There was a debrief about the summer gathering which was considered a great success. It was suggested that the prices for the books and the face painting were perhaps too low.
GREEN SPACE IMPROVEMENTS
A Newton’s apple and Old Bess apple tree were to be added to the orchard together with a horse chestnut being planted on the field. Lesley was to chase up Jane Procter from Trees for Climate for her suggestions for planting of bushes and trees on the field. These would then be publicised so people had the opportunity to comment.
Rushcliffe had agreed to provide 2 benches and locations had been suggested but a response to this was awaited from the relevant officer at Rushcliffe.
The back land on Waltham which was a concrete area provided an opportunity for careful planting and was to be followed up by Sue.
Having an information board on the field about the estate, possibly with a QR code was suggested. This could give information about the history of the estate.
It was agreed that a Tree Sub-group of Sue Andrew, Lesley Morris, Ruth Kerry, Catherine Bailey, Caroline Stone and Helen Hetherington be tasked to come up with ideas for planting and report to the next meeting.
No 7 BUS
The idea of the no 7 bus being routed into the bus turning circle on Buckfast Way had previously been raised with Nottingham City Transport. Now that the 22/23 service had been discontinued it was thought this issue should be pursued again. Councillor Penny Gowland agreed to chase this up.
GRANTHAM CANAL
The issue of the lack of water in the canal during the recent dry spell and ongoing maintenance was raised. It was noted that there was to be a public meeting in Lady Bay about this in the near future.
ADVENT CALLENDER
All 24 dates had been taken up and a map was to be made available giving details of which houses were participating.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Bulbs
It was agreed to spend £50 to buy crocus bulbs to be planted by the noticeboard.
Lengthsman Course
Sue and Ruth reported on the Lengthsman Training Day they had attended. Further details were to be provided by the County Council on the funding which was to be made available under this scheme.
Community Centre
There was currently no warden at the Community Centre. The social activities at the community centre were to be advertised on the website.

The meeting closed at 8.35pm.

Chairmans Report for 25th October 2022

Unlike the previous year, the last 12 month period has allowed the group to meet in person throughout the last year. The Association has been able to undertake a number of different projects and activities as well as plan future projects.
Window Advent Calendar
Born from Covid, this event continued to be popular on the estate and participants are already in place for this years advent period and we look forward to seeing the results.
Abbey Park Orchard and the Minor Oak
Following on from the successful fruit tree planting last year we organised a ceremony to dedicate the trees in February as well as plant the sapling derived from the famous Major Oak (a minor oak perhaps?). The ceremony was attended by the RSPB (who provided the oak sapling – via Lesley), pupils from Edmond Campion School and Sue Mallender the Mayor of Rushcliffe who placed the final spade of soil to ‘plant’ the oak tree.
Edmond Campion pupils have continued to support the project by watering the trees on a regular basis as well as using the trees as part of their learning. Many thanks to Lesley Morris for being the driving force behind this project as well as local residents Jo and Dan, Brian and Jennifer, and Michael and Family for also watering the trees. Further fruit tree planting is planned in this area in the near future.
We have also recently met with representatives from Trees for Climate to look at the feasibility of further tree and shrub planting in and around the park.
Playground improvements
This year has seen the children’s playground revamped and extended. Our thanks to the County Council and Via for this. Whilst APCA did not procure or fund these improvements we believe that by making our voice heard we have been instrumental in raising the profile of the area facilitating these improvements.
There are on-going discussions being held with Rushcliffe about siting of benches on the park which will hopefully come to fruition in the coming months. A site for adult gym equipment on the park has also been identified although the implementation of this will depend on acquiring funding.
Abbey Park Summer Gathering
September saw the inaugural Summer Gathering on Abbey Park. What a great success this was. The rain stayed away and (maybe) 150 people attended over the course of the afternoon enjoying the activities. It made new connections, brought together the community and raised sufficient funds for APCA to continue its activities and projects for the next year. Many thanks to all who were involved in making this happen. No doubt it will return in 2023.
Community Gardens
Sue and Joan continue their fantastic work maintaining and improving many of the communal areas on the estate in particular Rufford Way. Many thanks to them and other residents on the estate who continue to maintain and improve these areas for the benefit of everyone. They are a crucial part of Abbey Park’s distinctive character and need to be maintained for the benefit of all.
Litter picking and other groups and activities
The litter picking group has continued to meet regularly. Many thanks to all involved and in particular Ruth for organising this.
Other groups which continue to be supported by APCA include the Book Club and Board Games night held regularly at the Willow Tree as well as the jigsaw library at the Community Centre.
APCA has also facilitated in the procurement of the new Defibrillator in West Bridgford at Warren’s Barbers.
We also facilitated the bike marking session by Notts Police in the summer as well as funded and facilitated the display of poppys during the period of remembrance.
Thanks
Thanks to all who have served on the committee over the past year including Rani Joshi and Deb Triffitt who are no longer involved. Thanks also to RBC and Notts County Councillor Penny Gowland for attending meetings and supporting APCA activities. And finally, thanks to community of Abbey Park area for continuing to make it such a wonderful place to live and work.

Kind regards,


Simon Middlecote – Chair
Email - abbeypark.ng@gmail.com

Minutes of the Meeting 15th August 2022

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Lesley Morris, Chris Holmes, Caroline Stone, Catherine Bailey, Councillor Penny Gowland,
Also in attendance:- Jo Whittingham, Jo Mansfield, Helen Hetherington, Liz Smith, Jane Proctor (Trees for Climate),
MINUTES
The minutes of the last meeting held on 10th May 2022 were noted.
Matters Arising
The defibrillator outside Warrens Barbers had now been installed.
PARK AND GREEN SPACE IMPROVEMENTS
It was reported that Rushcliffe had funds for 2 benches for the field and had asked for suggested locations. It was stated Rushcliffe have a blanket policy of not having any memorial benches. There was a discussion about the siting of the benches, and near the top orchard and by the notice board were suggested.
Concern was raised about a lack of bins on the field. It was suggested that one should be placed at the top of the field as well as another by the benches. Temporary bins could be placed during the summer.
Reference was made to proposed gym equipment on the field which was still being considered by Rushcliffe and could be part funded from the section 106 agreement on the housing development on the former Depot site.
It was agreed that after the meeting a site visit be made to come to a view on the placing of the benches.
TREES
Jane Proctor from Trees for Climate indicated that she was seeking local people’s views on proposed low density tree planting. They were working in conjunction with Rushcliffe and would grant fund the trees and provide 15years maintenance. It was suggested that a survey of

existing trees be undertaken first so that a view could be formed on further planting.
Rushcliffe are happy for the horse chestnut tree grown by Catherine Bailey to be planted on the field.
It was agreed that a Sub-group of Simon Middlecote, Lesley Morris, Sue Andrew, Catherine Bailey and Jane Proctor carry out a survey of existing trees and look at options for further planting.
PROPOSED COMMUNITY ASSET LAND ON ESTATE
It was noted that Simon Middlecote and Councillor Penny Gowland would meet to discuss taking this matter forward.
SUMMER GATHERING, ABBEY PARK FIELD , SUNDAY 11th SEPTEMBER 2PM – 4PM
The plans for the Summer Gathering were discussed and the following arrangements agreed:-
Need to pick up dog poo from area to be used (Lesley) Litter pick 12noon and after event (Ruth/Chris)
A gazebo (Ruth’s) to be positioned in the play area / tree swings area
teddy bears picnic
Face painting / henna (Jo and Ruth)
Competition / hunt clues on field around trees ( Jo)
Bookstall / teddies soft toys for sale 20p donation
Exercise class for older people (Pip)
Memories of Abbey Park stall (Lesley)
Donation box for contributions towards cost
4 or 5 tables needed (Catherine and Jo)
Chairs needed
Rounders bat (Chris)
Advertise with laminated notices on lamp posts and bus stops, Co-op Shop / notice board/ community centre


To be explored:-
1. Ice cream van 2. Bouncy castle
The event would be cancelled if wet.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
It was agreed that the next meeting would be at the Willow Tree on Monday 5th September 2022 at 7pm to finalise arrangements for the Gathering.
The meeting closed at 8.35pm.

Minutes
23rd November 2021

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Lesley Morris, Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Caroline Stone, Deb Triffit
Apologies:- Catherine Bailey, Rani Joshi.
MINUTES
The minutes of the Annual Meeting held on 14th September 2021 were noted.
BANK ACCOUNT AND FINANCES
Ruth gave details of the current financial position. She indicated that a bill for £460 had been received from Streetwise for the trees and their planting. A kind donation had been received with grateful thanks towards the cost of the cherry trees. It was noted that there was a need to plan ahead as to how we would meet our on-going running costs
It was agreed that consideration of on-going running costs be placed on the agenda for the next meeting.
TREE PLANTING
The tree planting on the field and the bus turning circle had now been completed by Streetwise. They would need watering from March 2022. Edmund Campion School had indicated they would like to be involved. Contact was to be made with Abbey Road School to see if they wanted to be involved. There was an offer of a gene pool tree from the Major Oak for planting on the green .
Lesley and Simon were thanked for their work in arranging the tree planting.
It was agreed :-
That the arrangements for tree watering be considered at the next meeting.
That further investigations be made about the Major Oak gene pool tree with Simon to contact Rushcliffe
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT
A conversation had been had with an officer at Rushcliffe about having the shared land on the estate designated as an asset of community value.
It was agreed Simon would follow this up and get further information.
WEST BRIDGFORD COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
West Bridgford Community Association were pursuing the idea of developing a neighbourhood plan.
It was agreed that in principle the Association supported participation in developing a neighbourhood plan for the area.
COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE LEVY
A draft letter from the Secretary of the Central West Bridgford Community Association to the Chief Executive of Rushcliffe was considered. The letter asked for clarification as to how the West Bridgford’s “neighbourhood portion” of the Community Infrastructure Levy was to be decided. Lady Bay Community Association had agreed to be co-signatories of the letter and we were asked to also sign the letter.
It was agreed to add the Association’s signature to the letter
ROADS AND PARKING
Congestion around the schools was discussed. It was noted that the City Council had closed roads temporarily around some schools and it was raised as to whether this would be appropriate on Abbey Park. Comment was also made about the pollution from the ice cream van parked outside the school at home time.
The need for double yellow lines on the bend opposite the Willow Tree was highlighted.
It was agreed that Simon would write to Councillor Gowland with suggestions for improving the congestion around the schools and that the Parent Teacher Associations for both schools be contacted.
SOCIAL EVENTS
The advent windows displays were all organised to start on 1st December.

The following events were proposed:-
Sue was keen to arrange a safari sale in March/ April and would speak to Abbey School Home School Association.
A picnic on the field at the start of May.
LITTER PICKING
Sunday 16th January was suggested for litter picking on the estate.
WARD BOUNDARYS
It was reported that proposed changes to the existing ward boundaries had been published by the Electoral Commission. The consultation period was to end shortly.
BULBS
Sue asked for approval to purchase some spring bulbs for the estate.
It was agreed to allocate £50 for the purchase of spring bulbs.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
It was agreed that the next meeting would be an open meeting at the Community Centre on Tuesday 8th February 2022.

The meeting closed at 8.50pm.

Minutes of Meeting of 7th February 2022 7pm

Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Lesley Morris, Councillor Penny Gowland, Caroline Stone, Deb Triffit

Guests: Rob Archer & Judith Brown (RBC Community Safety)

Apologies:- Catherine Bailey, Rani Joshi, Chris Holmes

MINUTES
The minutes of the previous committee meeting held on 23rd November 2021 were noted. BANK

ACCOUNT AND FINANCES
Ruth gave details of the current financial position. She indicated that the bank account held 1,085.79p but we were at presently holding funds of £600 for the Defibrillator fund for the application by Warrens Barbers. The fund is awaiting further monies then the defibrillator will be purchased and placed by the One Stop Shop on Gordon Road.
On-going running costs were not discussed as per agenda.

CRIME and POLICING
Pc Matthew Holden gave an update regarding the recent crime wave saying that it had calmed down and three people were now in prison and a further person on bail who is being monitored closely. He followed this by saying the police do monitor all crimes in the area weekly and use what CCTV there is available when required. He gave insights as to how to protect our homes and belongings and suggested that valuables be registered on https://www.immobilise.com
The committee asked if we could have a bike marking event on Abbey Park, which was agreed. PC Holden will arrange a date and this will be advertised.
Judith Brown was able to bring along several security items which are available. Sue Andrews has these should people need them. They include:
Nuts and bolts to replace screws on shed, Purse chains & bells, Personal alarms, Security pens, No uninvited caller stickers, Anti theft number plate screws, 24 hour plug in timers, Ultra thin vibrating alarms & Heavy duty alarm locks. Further information can be found here https://www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/ communitysafety/

PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT
Verges and communal green space - It was noted that there are areas within Abbey Park that are well used as pathways where Stopping Up orders would not be allowed on these communal green spaces.
Community Infrastructure Levy - Simon reported that the meeting with Rushcliffe BC to discuss the distribution of the Community Infrastructure Levy he was due to attend had been delayed until 16th February. He will attend this and that he would report back to the committee at the next meeting.
Adult gym equipment - Adult Gym Equipment was discussed. Penny Gowland said there was little funding available from RBC for this at the moment. Simon will look at possible placement of gym equipment on the park with the intention of undertaking a public consultation with the local community on the idea. If the ideas are supported the next step would be to try and raise funds for the equipment. The Community Infrastructure Levy could be a potential source of this funding.
Football posts - Football posts were also discussed. Deb Triffitt reiterated the issues other areas have had when posts have been erected for general use, saying that local teams are short of places to play & have been known to ‘take over’ using them as their regular play area.
Tree planting - Lesley updated us on the Major Oak sapling due to be officially planted on 23rd February by the Mayor of Rushcliffe. It will be placed near the recently planted fruit trees which will

create both an area of environmental and historical interest, The sapling (the last one available this year) will need protection and Ruth agreed to organise a cage. Also in attendance will be Penny Gowland, two teachers from St Edmond Campion School and twelve pupils. The school very kindly agreed to adopt some of the trees (which will be labelled) and water them. Sue & Lesley will prepare the ground works for the planting prior to the 23rd.
The committee agreed to donate £50 to the RSPB for the Major Oak sapling

ROADS AND PARKING
Penny informed the meeting that new signage is being installed near Abbey Road & Edmond Campion schools to advise that these roads are not to be used for school drop off in vehicles.
Simon also noted that a ‘Walk to School Week’ was 16-20th May.

SOCIAL EVENTS
Litter Picking - Ruth fed back re the January Litter Picking Event saying it had been useful and rather a lot of empty spirit bottles had been retrieved amongst other items. The next litter pick is 20th February
Party in the Park - A ‘Party in the Park’ was raised and it was agreed to hold this on Sunday 11th September. Further details to be announced. Advertising will posted nearer the date.
Safari Sale - Sue fed back on a ‘Safari Sale’ saying she had been in contact with someone from Abbey Road School Parents Association and that any funds raised would possibly be split 50/50 between the school and ourselves. No date has been set as yet.
Book club - The Book Club is going from strength to strength and now has 23 or more members. Board Games Night - The Games Night, again held at the Willow Tree although small, is an
enjoyable event for those that meet up.
AOB
Wild flower planting - Deb brought up further wild flower planting. She will liaise with Wendy King
with a view to sourcing appropriate wild flower seeds..
Park Benches - More Benches for the park where requested by a resident. It was noted that there are no benches on the park at all. This will be looked at in the future with regard locations and potential fund raising.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING
It was agreed that the next meeting would be an open meeting at the Willow Tree on 10th May 2022. The meeting closed at 8.50pm.

Minutes of the AGM Meeting 14th September 2021

MINUTES
14th September 2021
Abbey Park Community Association Committee AGM
Present:- Simon Middlecote (Chair) , Ruth Kerry, Sue Andrew, Lesley Morris, Chris Holmes, Councillor Penny Gowland, Rani Joshi, Catherine Bailey, Alan Yeo, Elaine Yeo, Liz Smith, Caroline Stone, Tracey Girdier.
CHAIR’S ANNUAL REPORT
Simon reported that it had been 1 year and 8 months since the last in person meeting but in the meantime the committee had continued zoom meetings to deal with local issues. Since we last met in person Stamford Road has been resurfaced, a public notice board has been installed, a litter picking group established, the community gardens have gone from strength to strength and new tree planting has been agreed on areas of the park.
The Association had made progress in formalising itself eg bank account, draft constitution. He thanked the members of the committee who had attended meetings and in addition thanked Councillor Penny Gowland and Liz Plant the former County Councillor for their assistance
Simon thought that Abbey Park was a fantastic place to live and work with a wonderful sense of community. The Association had been established to try and facilitate community projects. We would be delighted to hear from any resident or business who had a community project or activity which they believed could be assisted by the Association
TREASURER’S ANNUAL REPORT
Ruth gave details of the income and expenditure since the bank account was set up. She reported that
Leaflets had been printed and distributed advising of our existence
Website for community set up with ongoing cost
Public liability insurance obtained
Selection of high visibility jackets purchased
Grants gratefully received from Rushcliffe Borough Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and the Bramley Apple Trust.

CONSTITUTION
The constitution was agreed subject to paragraph 4a on the composition of the management committee being amended from including “up to 3 ordinary members” to “ a minimum of 3 ordinary members”.
TREE PLANTING
Simon explained that the original proposal had been for an orchard to be planted on the field beside the school. During the consultation the bus turning circle was suggested as an alternative. As a result an alternative scheme was proposed with some trees at the top and some in the turning circle. This had now been agreed with Rushcliffe. The scheme would involve on the top site 2 Bramley apples, a Merryweather damson, Nottinghamshire medlar, a conference pear and 2 Bramley pollinators (a James Grieve apple and a John Dowie crab apple). The turning circle would have 7 ornamental cherry trees which had been in the original scheme when the estate was built but not implemented.
It was agreed to proceed with the revised schemes and to get Streetwise to plant the trees.
PLAY AREA
Rushcliffe Borough Council had funds allocated in the current financial year to extend / refurbish the play area on the field for 0-12 year olds. There was a potential subsequent phase 2 subject to future funding which would include football goals.
Concern was expressed about the amount of noise from the rope swings in the trees. It was suggested that planting trees / bushes may help to form a barrier to reduce the noise.
It was felt that outside gym equipment could be installed on the field. Rushcliffe did not have any funds for this but it was thought that perhaps funds could be raised for this via alternative grants.
It was agreed that the phase 1 improvements be supported and that the costs of the goal posts and gym equipment be obtained.
The plans for phase 1 be publicised on the website and Facebook page.

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
The following appointments to the Committee were agreed for the following year:-
Chair – Simon Middlecote
Vice-Chair – Sue Andrews
Treasurer and Website – Ruth Kerry
Secretary – Caroline Stone
Notetaker – Chris Holmes
Committee members : Lesley Morris, Catherine Bailey, Rani Joshi, Deb Triffit.

ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION AT FUTURE MEETINGS
The following issues were identified for consideration at future meetings
House extensions into shared area
Issues with Metropolitan Housing
Lack of dropped kerbs on the estate
Reliability of no 7 bus and getting in to stop at the turning circle
Gym equipment for the field
Community events eg. Queen’ Jubilee, Nottinghamshire Day 25th August, Advent windows, safari sale

The meeting closed at 8.15pm.