welcome to Highcliffe Residents' Association - News page
Executive 12 March 2008			For various reasons, several Executive Committee posts are currently vacant. If you are interested in Highcliffe, and would like to spend a little of your time helping to improve life for all village residents, why not have a chat with the Secretary or Chairman? We're sure there is a job for you, whatever your skills. Contact details here.
Newsletter 21 February 2008			The latest newsletter is now available online. This edition is full of interesting articles, including more information on the rainbow project. See it HERE, or use the newsletter link on the front page.
Adventure Capital Fund - Report 12 February 2008			Carolyn Lambert, a representative from the Adventure Capital Fund, met with Chairman John Mather in December. Her brief included a study of the organisational health of HRACIC, the financial performance, the social return, and other aspects. Her report is now available to members here.
Committee changes 12 February 2008			There are a couple of new members on the Executive Committee, including John Morgan, who fills the long empty Treasurer position. Sheila Aldous becomes the Committee Administrator, responsible - among other things - for ensuring the keeping of accurate minutes. This essential job is more important than ever, now that we are a Community Interest Company. The search for a Youth Representative on the Committee continues.
Jack Bonney 7 December 2007			Sadly we have to report the death of village stalwart Jack Bonney, who has died in the Macmillan Unit of Christchurch Hospital after a long illness. Until his illness meant he could no longer continue, Jack was an extremely popular member of the Residents Association Executive Committee, and ended up as Roads and Transport representative. In that position, he worked tirelessly - and invisibly to most of the population - for the good of Highcliffe residents, doing battle with bus companies, councils, super stores, in fact anyone at all that could improve life for all of us. Our lives will be the poorer for his passing.
High 5 Project 4 December 2007			Sadly, and despite an excellent presentation on Meridian, our project not only lost the head to head competition with Angmering, but failed to generate enough votes to secure one of the runners up spots. So High 5 will not be funded by Peoples Millions lottery money. Association Chairman John Mather, while obviously very disappointed, would like to sincerely thank everyone who worked so hard on the project, and also every person who voted on the day.
High 5 Project 28 November 2007			VOTE! VOTE! VOTE! Today is the day. The number to call to support the High 5 bid is 08702 433 801 Maximum charge is 10p (from BT landline) and you can call up to 10 times from each number. The actual presentation is between 6 and 6:30pm TODAY on Meridian TV.
High 5 Project 24 November 2007			Anyone who uses this website, or reads or listens to the local press and radio, can fail to be aware that the HRA's High 5 project is in competition for funding from the Peoples Millions. This project is aimed to provide Highcliffe with desperately needed youth facilities, all the more so since the closing of our youth club by Dorset County Council some time ago. High 5 aims to provide a ball park, with facilities for netball, basketball, and football, plus two youth shelters, on the recreation ground. Additionally, the plan includes conversion of a nearby building to provide internet facilities. Highcliffe Sixth Former Danielle Trudgeon will front the presentation, which was filmed at Highcliffe School, with the support of Bournemouth footballers Danny Hollands and Josh Gowling. Highcliffe is in competition with a project to build a skate park in Angmering in West Sussex. Angmering has a bigger population than Highcliffe, with bigger schools, and potentially more available votes. This means that we need every local person, plus their friends and families, to vote for Highcliffe. Voting by telephone and text (local charges - not 09 numbers) will start on the same evening from 9:30pm until midnight. You will also be able to vote online at http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_peoples_millions Peoples Millions sponsor, The Daily Mirror, will apparently have the voting numbers published in the Wednesday edition, so we presumably can start voting earlier than 9:30. I urge every single one of you to vote in all ways possible. Highcliffe needs this facility badly.
Rainbow Project 17 October 2007			Members of the Residents Association should very soon be receiving a response form asking for comments and yes/no decisions on a small number of questions. These relate to the Rainbow Project - the proposed regeneration of the Old School for the benefit of the whole community (rather than just the Pre-School, currently the only users of the building). PLEASE NOTE that the responses are being requested by Friday 26 October, so if you do not receive your form by the end of the weekend, contact the HRA to ask for a copy.
High 5 Project 10 October 2007			Starting on Wednesday 28th November 2007 for four nights, Meridian TV will broadcast Highcliffe’s bid for lottery funding from The People’s Millions. Watch the project presentation by a Highcliffe sixth former and vote by phone or text, or whatever other methods may be available! Plus HRACIC, along with the young people in Highcliffe, need your support at St Marks Church Hall on Saturday December 8 at 2PM to vote for exciting new facilities in Highcliffe! Also see the item below (4 October).
Rainbow Project 4 October 2007			“The Rainbow Community Project” Refurbishment of Pre School Nursery? 1. Highcliffe Residents Association CIC has the opportunity to go into partnership with Dorset County Council to refurbish the listed building currently housing the Pre School Nursery. The refurbished site could act as a community centre to replace many of the facilities proposed to be closed in Highcliffe such as the Police station. 2. The government through the BIG LOTTERY has launched a £30 Mill fund. The fund is for Councils to go into partnership with third sector organisations such as HRACIC on worthy projects to refurbish buildings similar to Highcliffe Old School. 3. What does that mean? HRACIC – Will own the building after government refurbishment. This will mean HRACIC will need to open other community facilities to pay for ongoing costs. HRACIC is non-profit therefore any profit must be spent within its community. We will be hiring and will pay staff to run the site. Rainbow Pre School Nursery will be refurbished with approval of staff and in addition what would you the community like to see on the site. If we should be successful no work will start before June 2008. Priority 1 is to keep the Pre School Nursery operating at whatever cost to the other programmes, which might be in addition to the Pre School nursery. We need to know your views, and would ask that you respond to a simple three question survey. You can either complete the questionnaire on-line, or by printing it down, and then posting it to us, or handing it to your local warden To print the form, go HERE (for Word 2007 document) To print the form, go HERE (for Word 97 document) HERE (for Acrobat PDF version). Go to the on-line form HERE. Please just answer YES or NO. To comment further, please use the Contact Us form.
Meeting added 20 August 2007			There is a to be a consultation meeting in November, in which the Borough Council will make presentations, and answer questions. It is also hoped that Dorset Police will also attend. See the Meetings page for details.
Committee changes 20 August 2007			There are some changes to the Executive Committee contact list. There are also still some vacancies on the Committee. Please contact the Secretary for more information (or even better, to volunteer).
Latest Newsletter 15 June 2007			The latest newsletter is now available online. See it here.
Quarterly Meeting on Monday 11 June 14 June 2007			We had a lively meeting, although unusually with less than a full house . Points to note. The executive has all been accepted as standing for a further year. Accounts are satisfactory and robust. A new professional auditor has been accepted. Hope Jones of New Milton (the closest Community Interest accountant to Highcliffe). The Chairman's report is available, and comments are welcomed. If you have Microsoft Powerpoint you can get it here. If you want the Adobe PDF version, get it here. Both versions include the Chairman's notes if you want to view them.
Committee 11 June 2007			There are several vacancies on the Executive Committee. Please conatct the Secretary to register an interest, or for more information. reps are needed for: Treasurer Roads & Transport Youth Affairs Press Secretary
CIC Articles of Association 1 May 2007			Since becoming a Community Interest Company, Association rules have changed. The new Articles of Association can be seen on the RULES page.
Aniques Road Show 20 April 2007			The famous BBC show is coming to Highcliffe Castle on 14 June, from 9:30am until 4:30pm.
Corrections 20 April 2007			Some corrections have been made to some of the website links on the Links page. A link to the new SAMRA (Stanpit and mudeford Residents Association) website has also been added.
CIC 23 March 2007			Chairman of the Executive Committee, John Mather, would like to thank the membership for their clear majority in the vote on the proposal at the EGM, on 12 March, to turn the Association into a Community Interest Company. The name being registered at Companies House is Highcliffe Residents Association (CIC). The benefits of this move are several, and varied. It will allow the Association to apply for Lottery and Government money to help projects which will enhance the quality of life of all the Residents of Highcliffe, both young and old. For example, we can now apply for the funding for the Youth shelter on the recreation ground. Anyone who has a worthwhile project that could qualify for funding from either government or Lottery money, should now let us know and it will be considered by the Executive. In addition, and among many other benefits, the move will allow the Association to: 1. enter into commercial contracts. 2. own or lease a building. 3. have a separate legal identity to take on legal responsibilities 4. deliver services under contractual agreements.
Newsletter 22 March 2007			The March Newsletter is now available online HERE
EGM and Quarterly Meeting 9 March 2007			To be held on Monday 12 March, 7:00pm, at St Marks Church Hall Agenda in MS Word format Agenda in Adobe Acrobat format
EGM and Quarterly Meeting 9 March 2007			To be discussed is the proposal that the Association becomes a Community Interest Company Document in MS Word format Document in Adobe Acrobat format
Latest on gravel extraction plans 9 March 2007			Here is the latest news from WRAGE (Walkford and Roeshot Action Group Executive) on the campaign to stop Hants County Council using Walkford and Roeshot sites for gravel extraction and landfill. Newsletter in MS Word format Newsletter in Adobe Acrobat format
Vacancies 12 January 2007			There are now three vacancies on the Executive Committee. In addition to the positions mentioned on 9 January, a vacancy now exists for a Press Officer. This position entails ensuring the local press is kept informed when Association business requires publicising, and providing a point of contact for dealing with any questions that might arise.
Vacancies 9 January 2007			There are currently two vacancies on the Executive Committee. A Treasurer is required, as is a person to look after Community Services. Contact the Secretary for more information, or to volunteer.
Latest newsletter 30 November			The latest - new look - newsletter is now available online. See it here.
Beware 17 November			The Office of Fair Trading is issuing warnings about a mail scam following a large number of complaints. The mailing from "AstraDelph International Debt Collection", which is headed "Notice of Issue of Litigation Proceedings", states that an outstanding debt is owed to an electronics website and that the debt has been passed on to them for recovery. The letter goes on to explain thatfailure to pay could result in legal proceedings, a County Court Judgement or a visit from doorstep collectors, unless the recipient contacts them immediately on one of the numbers provided. The office address for AstraDelph is stated to be in the Czech Republic, and the international telephone numbers, which are not being answered, appear to be in Liechtenstein. Anyone who receives one of these threatening letters should ignore it and not send money off or ring any of the numbers listed. If you are unsure what to do contact Consumer Direct immediately. You can contact Consumer Direct for clear, practical advice on 08454 04 05 06, or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
Public meetings 16 November			A meeting concerning the proposed Town Centre Base Community Centre is taking place on Saturday 25th November, 10.30am-12.30pm, at Christchurch Baptist Church for potential users and stakeholders of the Centre. Space is limited, so please call 01202 495017 if you wish to attend. ------------------- There is a Community Safety Action Group Open Meeting on Wednesday 6th December 2006, 6.00pm - 7.30pm in the Council Chamber. This event will include: * A variety of presentations about the work of the partnership organisations and community groups * The opportunity to talk to the Police, Council, Junior Youth Council, voluntary organisations, Community Partnership and many others * Advice about preventing burglary and the opportunity to purchase inexpensive devices to make your home safer * Facts and figures from Dorset Police and the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership * Information displays * Opportunities to get involved The meeting is open to everyone although spaces are limited so please contact the Community Safety Officer on 01202 495088 to receive a programme and confirm your place.
Contact details 16 November			Association contact details have been corrected. All pages now show the correct telephone number and email addresses.
Gravel and Landfill sites 9 October			Reference the protest against the gravel and landfill sites proposed by Hampshire County Council (see news item below). Here is the website where you can register your protest online (not forgetting that it must be done by Friday October 27). http://eforms-ext.hants.gov.uk/AF3/an/default.aspx/RenderForm2/?F.Name=BP1UyaRePDm There is also more information about the palns at this site: http://www3.hants.gov.uk/planning/
Gravel and Landfill sites 6 October			Hampshire County Council's plans for gravel extraction (followed by rubbish landfill) on huge sites at Walkford and Roeshot Hill will be railroaded through unless everyone in our area objects in the strongest possible terms. Objections must be in by Friday October 27. These sites will blight of of our lives for at least the next 20 years, with dirt and dust, smells, and a big increase in heavy vehicles using local roads, including Lymington Road through the village, and the A35, both of which are extremely congested already. The sites planned, as published by Hants County Council, can be seen below. Roeshot Plan Walkford Plan Send your protest to: Minerals and Waste Planning Environment Department Ashburton Court West The Castle Winchester SO23 8UD You can also fax your objetion to 01962 847055. (I understand you can also object on the appropriate HCC website, and as soon as I find the web address, I'll add it here.)
Vacancies 6 October			There are still vacancies on the Executive Committee. See the Committee page, and contact the Secretary if you want to know more about the various positions.
CBC A-Z 19 September			An link to an online version of the Complete A-Z of Council Services has been added to our Links page. This is an extremely useful and comprehensive document.
New rules 18 September			The new association rules, approved at the recent EGM, are now available. See here.
EGM and Quarterly meeting 6 September			A reminder - Don't forget the meeting on Monday 11 September. 7:00pm at St Marks Church Hall. In addition to the Quarterly meeting, there is an EGM to discuss proposed rule changes, and also possible charitable status.
Committee members needed 6 September			Both Secretary and Treasurer have felt the need to resign, due to family illnesses. Volunteers are urgently required to fill these important posts. Anyone interested, or wanting to know more, should contact the Chairman. See here for contact details.
Newsletter 30 August			The September newsletter is now available online.
Public meeting 5 July			A reminder - about tomorrow evening's public meeting to discuss Hampshire County Councils plans for gravel excavations (followed by land filling the sites Hampshire's waste). It's to be held at the United Reform Church in Ringwood Road, Walkford, at 7:30pm, on Thursday July 6.
Committee changes 5 July			Retirements, including those due to ill health, have caused several changes to your Executive Committee. See the updated list here. You will notice a requirement for a member to look after Roads and Transport, so anyone interested should contact the Secretary.
(i) Public meeting planned (ii) School Crossing Patrol needed 28 June			(i) Hants County Council is once again proposing to locate mineral extraction sites close to our village. Longer term, these sites would become landfill sites. The latest proposal is to develop an area just north of Roeshot Hill, and it is intended to make this one much bigger than the Walkford site already proposed. Christchurch councillors have therefore called a public meeting for next week, to be held at the United Reform Church in Ringwood Road, Walkford. It's at 7:30pm, on Thursday July 6. A representative of Hampshire County Council has been invited. (ii) Walkford desperately needs a lollipop person, or should I say a School Crossing Patrol person. The location is near the Ringwood Road/Pinewood Close junction, and is to see pupils of St Mark's safely across the road. It pays £43.50 per week (half pay during school holidays) for an hour a day (split between 8:10-8:45am and 3:30-3:55pm). Anyone interested should contact the County Council Road Safety Team on 01305 224558.
Bus route axed 21 June			It has been announced by Yellow Buses stating that, with effect from 2 July, the route 32 bus to Highcliffe will be terminated. The implications of this are that there will be NO DIRECT ROUTE to Castle Point, and a reduced service, relying on red buses, to Bournemouth Hospital. Yellow Buses website has a Comments section, which some of you may want to make use of. http://www.yellowbuses.co.uk/
Correction 19 June			At last week's Quarterly Meeting there was an announcement about the new 222222 telephone number for contacting the Police. It has emerged that for us in the 01425 area, we need to use area codes 01202 or 01305 to use the number. Dialling the number alone does not work for us.
Newsletter 22 May			The June Newsletter is now available online, and printed copies will be arriving through your doors very soon.
Newsletter editor 26 April			Newsletter Editor Ian Ewence's email address, in the list of Executive Committee members, contained a spelling mistake. It has now been corrected.
Newsletter editor 21 April			Newsletter Editor Ian Ewence is having to resign the position in the near future, and the Association is looking for a volunteer with the right skills or experience to take over production of the Quarterly publication. If you have publishing/computer skills, and want to help produce this very popular newsletter, please contact the Secretary on 01425 275754, or email him.
Chairman's letter to Members 30 March			See the letter. The letter details those to write to in order to protest about the adverse effects of the current planning regime, including the potentially disasterous Regional Spatial Strategy. There is also a copy of the letter the Association wrote to CBC on these issues.
Road wardens 25 March			The Association still needs road wardens to deliver quarterly newsletters in the following roads and blocks. Please contact the Chief Roadwarden if you can help, on 01425 271696. Redan Close Beacon Court, inc Wharncliffe Court Bracken Way Exeter Court Montagu Park Jacobean Close Walkford Way
Newsletter 28 February			The March Newsletter is now available online HERE (or use the link on the front page).
Council tax 20 February			This year's Council Tax increase looks like being 4.9% (just below the maximum limit set by government). This equates to an increase of £6.91 pa for a Band D property (occupied by more than one person). Much of this increase is due to demands from central government (in areas such as housing, licensing, and recycling).
1. Road wardens 2. Cliffhanger 3. Bus passes 8 February			1. Thank you to everyone who responded to our appeal for road wardens. We now only require wardens for Bracken Way, and Exeter Court (in Wharncliffe Road). As before, contact the Secretary if you can help. 2. The plans for the Cliffhanger cafe have now been approved. It is planned to be completed by February next year. 3. Christchurch over 60s will be able to benefit from free bus travel from April 1. The statutory requirement is to provide travel within borough boundaries, but the Christchurch scheme applies to all journeys starting or ending in Christchurch Borough, on Yellow Buses, Wilts&Dorset, and More. Current holders of passes have already received letters asking them to collect their new passes, and have a new photo taken (also free) Anyone else who thinks they are eligible, or has not received their expected letter, should call the Council on 01202 495218.
1. Newsletters 2. Steamer Point 25 January			1. Can you spare about an hour, four times a year, to help your neighbours receive their quarterly Residents Association Newsletters? The Association needs volunteers (road wardens) to deliver the newsletters in the roads and buildings listed below. Also needed are two area wardens, who deliver the newsletters to the various road wardens. If you can help, or want to enquire, please phone the Secretary on 01425 271696. Bracken Way Pembroke Court (Waterford Road) Nicholas Close Clinton Close Tracey Court James Court 2. Solar panels are to be installed at the Steamer Point Nature Reserve Information Centre. The panels, which will produce enough energy for lighting and appliance use, have been installed by Mudeford company, Equinox Energy, who completed the actual installation work free of charge. A significant part of the cost of the panels themselves was covered by a grant from the Energy Saving Trust, a government body which promotes energy efficiency.
1. New bus route 2. Computer upgrade for Medical Centre 18 January			1. A new bus route is to be launched on Monday, January 23. A unique partnership between Dorset County Council, Wilts and Dorset and the Grange, Twynham and Highcliffe schools is bringing buses to parts of Christchurch other services don't reach. It will be called the 111, symbolising not only the involvement of the three schools, but also recalling the BAC 111 jet manufactured at the airport. At no extra cost to taxpayers, the experimental service will create new links to Bournemouth International Airport, and to the Sainsbury's store at Somerford. The Wilts and Dorset bus is normally used to transport students between the three schools to attend various A-level classes, but then stands idle most of the day until students need to be returned. It will operate only on schooldays, and certain journeys will not stop between the three school sites to ensure students arrive for lessons on time. The bus will not serve the usual Christchurch town centre bus stops, to avoid traffic congestion in High Street and possible delays for the students. Nonetheless, it will still serve the airport four times a day, as well as providing a link to the popular Somerford Sainsbury's from Highcliffe, and access to local shops from areas such as Hillside Drive, The Meadway, and Braemar Drive. It is also hoped the service can be expanded to include Saturdays and school holidays, at least. This will depend on bringing new partners, and other funding into the scheme. 2. A major upgrade to the Medical Centre computer system will mean that the will have no system on Wednesday 1 February (and also 2 february at the Mudeford surgery). They will be unable to do routine repeat prescriptions, issue test results, or answer non urgent enquiries. Make sure you deal with these matters before this date if necessary, or leave them until after.
A35 Cliff top cafe 13 January			Apologies for lack of recent updates. Luckily, not too much has been happening over the holiday period. The A35 is now fully open, although drivers will wonder how it took so long to complete the work. Certainly on the face of it, the changes do not seem to justify the lengthy road closure. The remaining application to build the cliff top is finally to be discussed next month. See Planning page.
(i)Request (ii) A35 delay 30 November			Will the Professor from Bournemouth University, with family near Incline Village, please contact Steve White again? Details lost following some over enthusiastic tidying up. The A35 closures are set to continue even longer, following the recent cold weather. The constant frost apparently means that resurfacing has been delayed.
Police 28 November			Following the recent spate of burglaries, the Police community support vehicle is to visit Somerfields Car Park in Wortley Road on Tuesday 29 November from 2-4 pm. It will then move outside Highcliffe Primary School from 4-6 pm. On Thursday 1 December it will be at the same venues, at the same times. They will be selling timer switches, UV marker pens, window alarms, and other crime reduction items which you may find useful. Do try and visit the unit if you can.
A35 progress 16 November			We have received the following report from Steve Fitzmaurice, the Hampshire County Council engineer in charge of the A35 works. Section 3: Holmsley Station Bridge to Wilverley Post: The contractor is currently completing the drainage and kerbing works. Difficult ground conditions and wet weather have affected the contractor's programme. This section is expected to be opened to traffic mid-week on w/c 21 November. Section 2: Holmsley Junction to B3058 Junction (to Bashley) Section 2 surfacing works will follow completion of Section 3 works. The anticipated start date is end of w/c 21 November. Approximately 1 weeks road closure duration is expected. Section 1: B3058 Junction (to Bashley) to Forest Lodge Junction (to Bransgore). Section 1 surfacing works will follow completion of Section 2 works. The anticipated start date is end of w/c 28 November. Approximately 1 weeks road closure duration is expected. Note: Road closures on Sections 1 and 2 will be during daytime working hours. Outside of these times, Sections 1 and 2 will be signed as Access Only during their respective closures. The main diversion route signing will remain in place until completion of the works. Completion of the works is expected mid-December.
Newsletter 10 November			The latest newsletter has been added, and the hard copies will be through your doors in due course. (You may notice a small error in the website address. It should read www.highcliffeonsea.org)
The future of Christchurch Borough 4 November			Do you want to get involved in shaping the future of the Borough? Well, now's your chance. Important decisions have to be made about the type of place Christchurch will be in the next 15-20 years. So, from 9 November to 21 December residents have the opportunity to comment on the New Statement of Community Involvement (SCI). The SCI explains how people can get involved with the decision-making process that will shape the future of the Borough and what it will be like to live, work, and play in. A consultation was run over the summer which asked for views on an earlier version of the SCI and the latest document has been put together in response to feedback received from that consultation. The SCI is a central part of the new Local Development Framework for Christchurch which replaces the old system of Local Plans. The new SCI has also been produced jointly by Christchurch and East Dorset, and will apply to both authority areas. Full copies of the SCI are now available for inspection from the following places, at the following times during the consultation period, and feedback forms will be available to record any comments: Community Services Department, Civic Offices, Bridge Street, Christchurch Monday – Thursday – 8.45am to 5.15pm; Friday 8.45am to 4.45pm Christchurch Library, Druitt Buildings, High Street, Christchurch Monday – 9.00am to 7.00pm; Tuesday 10.00am to 7.00pm; Wednesday 9.30am to 5.00pm; Thursday and Friday – 9.30am to 7.00pm; Saturday 9.00am to 4.00pm Highcliffe Library, Gordon Road, Highcliffe, Christchurch Monday – 10.00am to 7.00pm; Tuesday and Thursday – 9.30am – 5.00pm; Wednesday Closed; Friday 9.30am to 7.00pm; Saturday 9.00am to 4.00pm. Christchurch Information Centre, 49 High Street, Christchurch Monday – Friday 9.30 – 5.00pm; Saturday 9.30 – 4.30pm Steamer Point Information Centre, Highcliffe, Christchurch Monday – Sunday 9.00am – 5.00pm For further information contact: George Whalley, Planning Policy Officer, Christchurch Borough Council - Tel: 01202 495023 Email: g.whalley@christchurch.gov.uk Please note that the version currently available on the Council dorsetforyou website is not the current version. It is the pre summer consultation version, now out of date.
Dial A Bus service 24 October			The immediate future of the service has been secured following the success of the trial period. A new 10 seater bus has now been introduced, with space for 4 wheelchairs. Good news indeed.
Zig Zag path 24 October			The path from the Castle grounds to the beach was officially opened yesterday by our Mayor, Cllr Josephine Spencer. Following the ceremony, those attending were treated to hot pumpkin soup and bread.
Flu jabs news 19 October			There's an urgent message from Highcliffe Medical Centre. Due to a national shortage of the necessary vaccine, there will be NO anti 'flu jab clinic on Saturday next - October 22. The session was intended for people with surnames starting I - P. Patients should therefore attend the next planned session, sheduled for Saturday November 19. The Centre offers their apologies for the inconvenience caused.
Traffic news 19 October			Surprisingly, the A35 roadworks diversion through the village seems so far not to be causing the major problems we feared. Traffic currently appears to be moving reasonably well, and not much worse than normal.
A35 road works - change of plan 12 October			Many apologies for previous information about the A35 plans, but Hampshire County Council now have given us completely different information to that previously provided. It is not good news. As from Monday next (17 October) the A35 will be completely closed, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for a minimum of four weeks. It could be more, depending on what they find when work on the old railway bridge at Holmsley starts. Even after that work is complete, further closures will be necessary relating to resurfacing work, although at that stage it is expected that the road will be open at weekends. As Highcliffe is on the official diversion, we can expect major traffic problems in the village for many weeks to come.
Newsletter 12 October			Many apologies for the delay, but the Autumn Newsletter has finally been added.
Wortley Road development 21 September			With encouragement from councillors, the Association and other interested parties, petitioned the Council to lodge an application for a Judicial Review against the Planning Inspectorate's decision to grant the McCarthy and Stone appeal. When the petition was duly delivered to a recent Council meeting, the councillors then decided not to proceed with the application on financial grounds, fearing that the action might lead to protracted and expensive legal actions. The meeting apparently felt that there was little chance of the appeal succeeding in the end.
News from yesterday's quarterly meeting 13 September			Dorset Chief Constable, Martin Baker, along with Christchurch's Inspector Andrew Earley gave a talk in which they Highcliffe has no problems, and is a very place place to live. They also said that while Highcliffe Police Station is occasionally open, it is not manned (?). Residents will be having their own opinions about the officers' statements. Fears of the early demise of the new Dial-A-Bus service were a little premature, as we heard that the trial would run for its planned 3 months before a decision is made. But use it or lose it seems to be the message. More publicity is planned for the service. The Number 121 bus service to Sainsbury's is being withdrawn, following teh ithdrawal of Hampshire County Council subsidy. CBC are planning to install a school time pedestrian crossing in Hinton Wood Avenue toaid children cross what can be a dangerous road. The bad news is that it will probably be 5 years in coming.
HRA Executive Committee 13 September			Unfortunately, our Secretary Sarah Meaden has reluctantly had to resign for family reasons. We wish her well, and thank her for the enormous amount of work she has done during her tenure. However, we are lucky to have John Michael Smith, who has stepped into the breach. John already has a record of fighting unsuitable development in Highcliffe, and for working to improve the village community and environment. He will be a great asset, and we welcome him. The changes are reflected on the list of Committee members.
Wortley Road development 13 September			Although there may only be a slim chance of success, local residents and members of the Association have petitioned the Council to lodge an application for a Judicial Review against the Planning Inspectorate's decision to grant the McCarthy and Stone appeal, allowing them to proceed with their intention to build the huge block of sheltered apartments on the site of four family homes in Wortley Road. Watch this space.
HRA Executive Committee 21 July			There have been several changes recently to the Association Committee. John Crosswell, Dennis Gemmell, and Ivy Bishop have all left due to poor health. We thank them all for their long service, and their many efforts on behalf of Highcliffe residents. They will all be missed. We welcome Christine Wright, who takes over as Chief Road Warden. The changes are reflected on the list of Committee members.
46-52 Wortley Road - Public Inquiry 18 July			Well done and thank you to everyone who made the effort to attend the Public Inquiry last week. The numbers were very impressive, and showed the Inspector the strength of feeling against this proposed development. Now we must wait until at least the end of August to discover if our eforts have been successful.
Dial A Bus Service 18 July			Christchurch Dial-A-Bus is being set up to provide wheelchair access for elderley and disabled people. The service will start in September. They will collect you from your home on a Friday between 10am and 11:30am, and take you to Christchurch. The return journey will be at approximately 1:30pm. If you are interested in using this service, contact Natalie Murray, Community Strategy Officer at CBC - 01202 495000
46-52 Wortley Road - Public Inquiry 8 July			The Public Inquiry is at the Civic Offices on Tuesday and Wednesday next (12-13 July). As many people have shown an interest in attending for at least part of the Inquiry (not forgetting to sign the attendance register) The Association has organised free bus services to the Civic Offices for anyone requiring tranport. Times as follows. Tuesday 12 July Departing from Somerfield car park 09:00am, 10:00am, 11:00am, 2:00pm, 3:00pm Departing from Civic Offices 09:30am, 10:30am, 12:00am, 2:30pm, 5:00pm Wednesday 13 July Departing from Somerfield car park 09:00am, 10:00am, 11:00am Departing from Civic Offices 09:30am, 10:30am, 12:00am. Ask the driver for afternoon times - depends on demand.
46-52 Wortley Road 8 July			The petition against this proposed development, even though only open for a short while, has already been signed by over 3000 people. Thank you for making your views clear on McCarthy & Stone's plans. It can do nothing but good at next weeks Inquiry.
Members email addresses 30 June			A few weeks ago, many of you provided the Association Secretary with your email addresses, stating that you were happy to be contacted by that method. Unfortunately, for an as yet unexplained reason, a large number of the addresses generate 'unknown' or 'undeliverable' responses when attemping to send an email to them. If you provided your email address, you should have received two recent emails from the Association (one about the Wortley Road petition, and one about the Wortley Road Inquiry). If you have not received these emails, we have a problem that needs correcting. Please email this address stating your name and address. This will confirm your email address, and we can correct our distribution list appropriately.
46-52 Wortley Road - petition 20 June			We do not yet have enough people to man the tables in Lymington Road on coming Saturdays. * Permission for siting of the tables for the Petition has been obtained. One outside the former Pine Shop, and the other outside the old Lloyds Bank building, next to Highcliffe Garage - the used car showroom. * Each table to be manned by two people in shifts from 10-12, 12-2 & 2- 4 0n the Saturdays 18th and 25th June and 2nd July; There were not enough volunteers on the 18th and there are insufficient numbers for the remaining Saturdays. Please contact Richard Carr on 01425 276 350 to agree a slot as we desperately need to get the number of signatures up as it is still below 1,000; a lower response than to the Mandate! The Chairman has volunteered for the first shift on July 2nd anddoes not want to be there on his own!
Planning Consultation display boards 20 June			The display boards will simply be there to alert people to the consultation, and to give them information about where they can view the documents and how they can comment. Organisations such as the residents associations will also be sent their own copies of the documents for them to comment on. There are 4 documents (SCI, Christchurch Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal, Shop Fronts Design Guide and the Land West of the High Street Development Framework) . Timetable for consultation display: * Sainsburys: Mon 20th June - Sun 26th June * Co-op: Mon 27th June - Sun 3rd July * Xch Library: Mon 4th July - Sun 10th July * Highcliffe Library: Mon 11th July - Sun 17th July * Christchurch Information Centre: Mon18th July - Sun 24th July
AGM 9 June			Don't forget that next Monday sees the Association AGM and Members Meeting. The first item on the agenda is a talk by Robert Gayton from the South and East NHS Primary Care Trust. He will explain how the system works, and will be answering your questions.
June magazine 6 June			Here is an online copy on the HRA June magazine
46-52 Wortley Road 1 June			The official launch of the petition against the huge development at 46-52 Wortley Road will be made by MP Christopher Chope. Please be at the Recreation Ground on Saturday 11 June, for the 11:30am ceremony. (See the Planning page for a copy of the petition.)
Email to members 1 June			The email to members containing the petition against the Wortley Road development inadvertently listed members individual email addresses. Many many apologies for this. The addresses were supposed to be hidden behind a distribution list name (HRA Members) but for some as yet unexplained reason it did not work properly. Again - many apologies, and it won't happen again.
VJ Day Street Party 25 May			The Highcliffe Carnival Committee are organising a street party for the children of the village on Sunday 10 July. If you can help in any way (1940's food, supervising, decorating the street, serving drinks, etc, etc) please call Jason dean 01425 270455 or Vic House 01425 276990
Diamond Jubilee 14 May			The Association was formed in 1945, and the committee would very much like to hear from members on appropriate ways this milestone could be celebrated. Please let us have your ideas. (Contact details above.)
Cliff top cafe plans 14 May			There is at least one other planning application being made with regard to the cafe. The design that came second in the earlier competition has been amended, and will also be considered by CBC
New Council website 14 May			We would like your views on the new Dorset4You website, which replaces the old Christchurch Council site. Tell us what you think using the email form above.
Cliff top cafe plans 8 May			The winning design for a cafe to replace the old Crows Nest establishment has been passed by the Council Planning Committee. The vote was by a majority, and reservations were made, including doubt that the South West Regional Government would approve the building
Your help is urgently needed 27 April			The Association badly needs your help. We need two Area Wardens, and Road Wardens for the following roads: Bracken Way Lymington Road (part) Ringwood Road (part) Tracey Court James Court James Court Regent House Chewton Common Road (part) Wellington Avenue This is NOT a big job! It take no more than an hour (four times a year), and in many cases it takes much less. PLEASE help if you can. To volunteer or to find out more about what's involved - please call Ivy Bishop on 01425 279457
Highcliffe Policing 30 March			Here's some good news. Superindendant Hart, the Eastern Divisional Commander of Dorset Police, has announced that Highcliffe Police Station will reopen for normal business on April 11. The station will be open five days a week, from 9:00 to 13:00. There are also plans to relocate the Station to a more central position the village. (It will be interesting to discover where they intend it going.) Also, a new system of community policing is to be started (hopefully from May 2). Highcliffe, Mudeford, and Burton will become a Beat Team area, with its own designated Sargeant, Beat Officers, and Community Beat Officers. It is intended that this will lead to a more recognisable local police team, who will be more in touch with the community.
Good Citizen Awards 25 March			I gave you false information on March 21. While Denis Osgood did indeed come runner up in the recent Christchurch Good Citizen Awards, it was not in the category I stated. It was in the category Community Event or Project. It seems Denis was nominated in more than one category - unsurprisingly, after his years of service to the community in so many ways.
Good Citizen Awards 23 March			Denis Osgood, long time Chairman of the Association, and heavily involved in many of the good things that have happened in Highcliffe over many many years, was runner up in the the Pride of Place category of the recent Good Citizen Awards. Denis came second only to Julie Petrie, driving force behind FROGS, the highly successful community group.
Prize winner 23 March			The Where is this building? competition in the recent Newsletter was won by Mr Peter Adams of Waterford Road, who received a Stewarts voucher as his prize. The building was in Montegu Road, and was called Mountjoy. It later became the Chewton Court Hotel, before making way for Marryatt Court, which now stands on the site. Thanks to everyone who entered, and thanks to Reg Stones for providing the old photo used in the competition.
Help needed 5 March			The Association badly needs help. We need two Area Wardens and Road Wardens for the following roads: Bracken Way Lymington Road (part) Ringwood Road (part) Tracey Court James Court Stanley Road James Court Regent House Chewton Common Road (part) Wellington Avenue This is not such a big job as it might seem. The Association does not have members at every address, so delivery of the quarterly newsletter (the Spring delivery is combined with collection of the annual subscription) takes no more than an hour, and in the case of the various Courts, it takes much less. To volunteer or to find out more about what's involved - please call Ivy Bishop on 01425 279457
Travellers gone 4 March			The so called 'travellers' who invaded the Crow's Nest car park last weekend have obeyed the Council's eviction notice, and moved on. Needless to say, they lft behind a great deal of mess and rubbish, and also threw large quantities over the cliff edge.
Over development on a grand scale? 3 March			Anyone wishing to object to the huge development of 55 assisted living apartments, plus staff accomodation, and communal facilities, etc, etc only has until March 15 to do so. The site for this 4 storey monster is at 46-52 Wortley Road - four family houses to be replaced by a huge block of flats! The proposal is contained in two applications, and letters of objection need to quote both numbers. They are 8/05/0092 and 8/05/0093. Letters to go to: Christchurch Borough Council Civic Offices Bridge Street Christchurch BH23 1AZ Some good ideas for justifying your objection can be found on the NEWS page of the Highcliffe community website.
Suspicious activity 3 March			Suspicious males have been entering gardens in the Westfield Gardens area this week, without permission and without even knocking on doors first. If you see anyone acting in such a way the police area advising using 999 to report it. Some of the males were in a silver Ford Cavalier F872 SRV, so keep an eye open for that as well.
Your mandate 16 February			With the forthcoming Newsletter, you will receive a questionaire (and a prepaid reply envelope). This is to help the Executive Committee ensure that it is correctly representing the views of the members. The mandate questionaire is also available from this website, and can be found on the Mandate page.
Good Citizen Awards 11 February			The Christchurch Good Citizen Award scheme aims to recognise and reward people and groups that have made a diffence to their community. If you want to nominate a person or group you think deserves some recognition, print down the form below, and send it off to the address on the form. Be aware that the award ceremony is in March, so you don't have much time. Microsoft WORD format Adobe Acrobat PDF format
Your Mandate 7 February			The latest copy of the Newsletter, which will soon be coming through your door, includes a a mandate which we ask you read carefully, complete appropriately, and return to us - post free. The committee needs to know the opinion of Association members, to ensure that the hard work they put in is appropriate to members views, so please take the time to complete the form.
Clifftop cafe 27 January			If you haven't yet seen the pictures of the winning design for the cliff top cafe, take a look at these artists impressions. Picture one - Picture two. More details in the forthcoming newsletter. The winning architect, and others involved in the proposed cafe, will presenting on the subject at the HRA Quarterly Meeting on Monday 14 March, in St Mark's Church Hall, starting at 7:30pm.
South East Structure Plan 21 January			Responses to the proposals for the future of South East Dorset, as detailed in the document Looking to the Future: South East Dorset in 2006 must be received by the end of January. It is vital that as many people as possible complete the necessary form and respond in the timeframe. Highcliffe and Christchurch are included in the same area as Bournemouth and Poole, and could easily lose out to their bigger neighbours if we don't all make our views known. To help you, we are providing the forms here. Microsoft DOC format Acrobat PDF format
Montagu Road			Following an appeal by the developers, an inquiry into the rejected development plans for this site was organised at short notice. Below is the Association's evidence as presented by our representative. Microsoft DOC format Acrobat PDF format
Denis Osgood			After resigning as Association Chairman some months ago, due to ill health, Denis has decided the time has now come to leave the Committee altogether, hopefully to concentrate on his own wellbeing. But knowing Denis, it would be a surprise if he resists the temptation to involve himself in helping others in some way. Denis has done so much for Highcliffe, over so many years, he will be sorely missed by both the Resident's Association, and the whole village. We wish him well.
Cliffs at Naish			Be aware that after recent bad weather the cliffs below Naish are very unstable, and are moving. Please take great care when walking in that area. We recommend avoiding it at present.
YOUR heart - February 12			Who looks after YOUR Heart? A series of short talks by health professionals. Plus: get your blood pressure checked; talk to a dietician; find out about Smokestop; consider fun ways to exercise. Give your heart some care!
Professional advice required			The Association committee are looking for local people with professional expertise who would be willing to be consulted on an occasional ad-hoc basis. Paying for such advice (as has been necessary with recent planning matters for example) makes serious inroads into Association funds, and it has been suggested that with the numbers of members we have, there may well be people who would be willing to share their expertise with the Committee when necessary. If you are willing to be consulted in this way, please contact the Secretary (details above).
Carnival 2004			The Highcliffe On Sea Carnival 2004 was a major success, with large crowds coming to see the 40 plus organisations that took part in the parade, not including the highly entertaining Gugge Band, the Ringwood Pipe Band, and the New Forest Plonkers. Congratulations to everyone who took part, and to the organising committee. The sum raised for charity has not yet been finallised, but estimates in excess of £3000 are currently being projeted. Watch this space.
Sewards inquiry			The Public Inquiry was held on November 9, 10, and 11, at the Civic Offices. Here is the evidence the Residents Association presented to the Inquiry. Microsoft DOC format Acrobat PDF format
Your mandate (coming very soon )			The Association's committee represents you, the residents of Highcliffe, and needs to know if it has your mandate in it's efforts to maintain the character of the village. Please read the mandate and give us your response. There are several ways in which to respond. Just choose the method which suits you best. Microsoft DOC format Acrobat PDF format