Approved minutes of meeting held in February 2020

Port Eynon Community Council

Minutes of monthly Council meeting held on Monday 24^th February 2020 at Knelston Primary School

Present                  Councillors: Martin Cox, Robert Fisher, Sheila Fisher, David Lewis, Steve Young.

Apologies:             Gareth Jones

In attendance       Mr.Barry Stubbings – Clerk;

1. Minutes                 Clerk confirmed that the draft minutes of the last meeting held on 20^th January 2020 had been circulated to all Councillors. The Chair expressed his thanks to Cllr. Evans for acting as clerk and preparing the record of the meeting. Cllr Young requested a minor change at Section 6 to show that the request to alter the traffic sign in Port Eynon was in fact made by Cllr. Lewis. It was proposed by Councillor Martin Cox, and seconded by Councillor Sheila Fisher that the minutes, with this correction, be accepted and this proposal was agreed by all.

• Declarations of Interest      None were declared.

• Matters Arising

SCURLAGE GREEN –

TRAFFIC SPEED – Clerk advised of response from CC&S on 4^th February regarding traffic control measures in Scurlage. After discussion it was agreed to invite the representative of C&CS to attend a Council meeting.

                                FOOTPATHS – response from C&CS, as above, was noted and agreed that Clerk should write to the developer to seek adoption.

                                SALTHOUSE LANE, PORT EYNON Clerk advised that he had received a response from C&CS Peter Beynon but it did not seem to progress matters. Agreed to invite Peter Beynon to future Council meeting.

DEFIBRILLATORS – After further consideration Council agreed to proceed with funding of two defibrillators. Clerk to advise ‘Cariad’.

• Finance 

Clerk advised of current resources available and that precept application for £6,000 had been agreed. Clerk advised that he was in receipt of invoices from Knelston School for hire of the meeting room, £200 and Membership of One voice Wales, £138. Proposed by Cllr Gareth Evans and seconded by Cllr. Steve Young that payment be made. Agreed unanimously.

 After discussion it was agreed to proceed without delay on following items of village improvement.

Two defibrillators to be sited at Overton Green (free standing solar powered); Port Eynon Youth Hostel (mains power with unit relocated from Knelston garage; Knelston village (free standing solar powered) Budget £3,000.

Timber posts around edge of Overton Green (agreement of Penrice Estate will be necessary). Budget £1,000.

Bench seats at Scurlage bus stop and War Memorial. Budget £3,000.

Repairs to Notice Boards at Port Eynon, and Knelston. Budget £500.

Replacement Notice Board at Scurlage green. Budget £1,000.

Wildfower planting at Sculage and Port Eynon village greens, and bramble clearance at Port Eynon. Budget £150

Traffic calming measures at Scurlage. Budget £3,000.

                                Total budget allocation £11,650.

Clerk confirmed that reserves together with 2020 Precept were adequate to meet these commitments.                      

• Planning  

Clerk provided a resume of applications recently considered and now approved or refused

APPLICATIONS PREVIOUSLY CONSIDERED.

2019/2543 FUL    Well Cottage, Port Eynon – Increase of roof height at rear, rooflights and patio doors.

Council considered the application and found it generally acceptable with no adverse effect on neighbours or the neighbourhood. Application granted 8^th January 2020

2019/2313 FUL    Land adjoining Dinglebank, Trumpet Lane, Knelston – New detached house and garage.

Council considered this further application for this site.Council were of the opinion that the proposals represented an over development of the site leading to a detached house which was not in accordance with the guidelines expressed in the AONB Design Guide for both overall size and for height. The resulting house would not be compatible with existing properties in Trumpet Lane. Council noted that the proposed first floor terrace would give rise to intrusive overlooking of a neighbouring property. Council noted that the plot size had been maximised by the removal of established hedgerows and replacement with close boarded fencing which is further contrary to AONB Guidelines.

Council reiterated previously expressed concerns with regard to further development being served by Trumpet Lane which is an unmade road served from a sub-standard junction with the A4118 Port Eynon Road. This junction lacks visibility for exiting traffic and is sited close to a rise in the main road such that southbound traffic is unaware of exiting vehicles.

Overall Council were of the unanimous opinion that the application should be refused. Application refused on 9^th December 2019.

2019/2493 South Gower Sports Club, Detached Gymnasium Building. Council by majority agreed this proposed addition to the Sports Club complex is in principle, acceptable .

2019/2811/PRE A Pre-App for detached dwelling at Scurlage Farm Scurlage SA3 1BA

Councillors referred to their consideration of an earlier application and concerns re; increased surface water run-off but considered that the increased amenity space and smaller footprint of the proposed property sufficient for them to support the application.

2019/2794/FUL  Milestone Court Scurlage SA3 1AX Proposed detached dwelling.

Overall Council were unanimously of the opinion that the proposed development was not in accordance with local planning policy, was of excessive size and constituted over development of a small backland site.

2018/2279/FUL granted 12/12/2018 Murmur y Llanw, Overton Lane Port Eynon SA3 1NR

Discharge of condition 3 of Planning permission.

2020/0044/TEM Moor Corner Farm Port Eynon Swansea SA3 1NJ Use of land for the siting of 5 Touring caravans from Good Friday (whichever is the earlier) or the 1^st April t 31^st October 2020 (inclusive) and Good Friday (whichever is the earlier0 1^st April to 31^st October 2021 (inclusive).

Council considered the application and recommended approval.

2019/2945/FUL Highfield Port Eynon SA3 1NL Extend the use of the garage to operate gin tasting/making classes with first floor accommodation above to accommodate staff/owners and use of 4 bedrooms of the main dwelling house as a Bed and Breakfast.

Council considered the application and recommended approval.

NEW APPLICATIONS

2019/2541 PRE – Land South of Highwinds, Port Eynon, Development of a Holiday Park. Council noted the application and were of the opinion that it was contrary to the Local Development plan and planning policy for Gower AONB. Concern was raised as to the precedent that would be set if approved, noting that there would be substantial loss of active prime agricultural land, the development would impinge on the skyline of hills surrounding Port Eynon village. The size of the planned development would place considerable stress on the infrastructure of the area. Council unanimously voted that the proposal should be refused.

2020/0172 FUL – No 1 Frogmoor Cottages, Frogmoor Lane. Single storey rear extension.

Council considered the details of the application for a minor infill extension to the rear of the cottage and agreed unanimously that approval should be recommended.

2020/0021 ELD – Plot 90 Highfield Holiday park, Port Eynon. Replacement of caravan with a log cabin. Council noted that this was a retrospective application and were of the opinion that a certificate could be granted.

• Highways, Footpaths and Environment

Cllr. Lewis again raised concern over the traffic sign on the approach to port eynon and the deep hole in the edge of the carriageway at St Cattwg’s church.

Cllr. Young repeated his concerns over the boardwalk from Port Eynon to Horton which is hazardous to pedestrians when it is wet. He advised that a serious accident had recently occurred which necessitated the attendance of the air ambulance.  As a corollary he requested the Clerk to make enquiries of the First Responder Unit as to why they do not appear to be reacting to accidents of this nature or to routine medical emergencies.

With the approach of a new holiday season Council expressed again their commitment to replacing the beach litter bins and to engaging local businesses in a plastic free village.

• Correspondence

Clerk advised that he had received no correspondence of note.

• Communications, Notice Boards, Etc

Cllr. Evans reported that the Notice Board at St Cattwg’s church had been blown or knocked down. He had approached Cllr. Jones to carry out repairs..

• Village Halls

Port Eynon – Cllr. Robert Fisher advised that he had written to the VHMC and to Highfields Holiday Park regarding the boundary encroachment but had received no response.

Llanddewi – Chair advised that he was still unable to contact Mr Walters.

1. Knelston Burial Ground.

Clerk advised, on behalf of the Trustees, that there was nothing to report.

1. Any Other Business            

There was no further business.

Next meeting – Monday 23^rd March 2020, 7 pm. At Knelston School.

There being no further business to discuss the Chair thanked all in attendance and the meeting adjourned at 9: 00 pm.

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Barry Stubbings (Clerk)                                                                                                       Robert Fisher (Chair)

10^th March 2020

Port Eynon Community Council did not meet in December 2019

Approved Minutes of Council meeting November 2019

Port Eynon Community Council

Minutes of monthly Council meeting held on Monday 18^th November 2019 at Knelston Primary School

Present                  Councillors: Martin Cox, Gareth Evans, Robert Fisher, David Lewis

Apologies:             Sheila Fisher, Gareth Jones

In attendance       Mr.Barry Stubbings – Clerk;

1. Minutes                 Clerk confirmed that the draft minutes of the last meeting held on 14^th October 2019 had been circulated to all Councillors; also that the confirmed minutes of the September council meeting had been displayed on the Council notice boards and posted on the web site.. It was proposed by Councillor Martin Cox, and seconded by Councillor Gareth Evans that the minutes be accepted and this proposal was agreed by all.

• Declarations of Interest      None were declared.

• Matters Arising

SCURLAGE GREEN –

TRAFFIC SPEED – Clerk tabled a draft of letter to C&CS Chief Executive calling for action and all agreed on the letter being sent.

                                FOOTPATHS – call for action was also included in the above letter.

                                SALTHOUSE LANE, PORT EYNON Clerk to make contact with Peter Beynon and AONB taskforce to have undergrowth cleared and to make marker posts visible, also to regrade the lane surface. All matters previously promised and now long overdue.

DEFIBRILLATORS – No further consideration .

• Finance 

Budgetted expenditure was presently:

                                                Port Eynon Village Green works- £2,000

                                                Scurlage Village Green works – £2,000

                                                Scurlage traffic speed management – £3,000

Clerk confirmed that there were adequate resources to meet these commitments.                           

• Planning  

Clerk provided a resume of applications recently considered and now approved or refused

2019/1556 Llais y Don, Overton lane, SA3 1NR – Extensions, Porches, canopy and front patio area.

Council noted that the proposal amounted to considerable reconfiguration and extension of the existing building. Reference was made to a detailed objection from owners of the neighbouring property. Council expressed concern over the extent of the additions to the present property and in particular, to the proximity of the side extension to the property boundary. Council further noted the incorporation of flat roof areas which would not be consistent with the Gower AONB Design Guides. Overall Council concluded by majority that the application could be recommended for approval provided the above concerns could be addressed.

Application approved on 5^th November 2019.

2019/2027TCA Box Boat Cottage, Port Eynon – To lop and crown lift one cedar tree. Council had no recommendations.

2019/ 2080 PRE-App  Manzell Kuchak, Port Eynon  – Two storey side extension and single storey rear extension.

Council considered the application which was for extension and improvement of an existing holiday cottage. Council noted that there was no provision for parking at the existing property and there would be none after the improvements are carried out. Car parking in the immediate area is already problematic. Council further noted that the proposed fenestration would appear to not be compatible with the AONB design guide and expressed reservations over the proposed balcony.

Overall Council recommended that the application be refused.

Decided on 8^th October and given a ‘MIXED’ response.

NEW APPLICATIONS

2019/2543 FUL    Well Cottage, Port Eynon – Increase of roof height at rear, rooflights and patio doors.

Council considered the application and found it generally acceptable with no adverse effect on neighbours or the neighbourhood.

2019/2313 FUL    Land adjoining Dinglebank, Trumpet Lane, Knelston – New detached house and garage.

Council considered this further application for this site.Council were of the opinion that the proposals represented an over development of the site leading to a detached house which was not in accordance with the guidelines expressed in the AONB Design Guide for both overall size and for height. The resulting house would not be compatible with existing properties in Trumpet Lane. Council noted that the proposed first floor terrace would give rise to intrusive overlooking of a neighbouring property. Council noted that the plot size had been maximised by the removal of established hedgerows and replacement with close boarded fencing which is further contrary to AONB Guidelines.

Council reiterated previously expressed concerns with regard to further development being served by Trumpet Lane which is an unmade road served from a sub-standard junction with the A4118 Port Eynon Road. This junction lacks visibility for exiting traffic and is sited close to a rise in the main road such that southbound traffic is unaware of exiting vehicles.

Overall Council were of the unanimous opinion that the application should be refused.

• Highways and Footpaths

Councillors raised concern over the area at the rear of Borfa House, Port Eynon where the unmade surface had deteriorated to such an extent that it presented a severe hazard for pedestrians, particularly as there was no lighting in the area.  Numerous deep potholes were present which could easily lead to severe injuries to the public. It was noted that this area was a main pedestrian route serving the eastern part of Port Eynon and had become a parking area well used by tourists in the day time and by patrons of the Ship Inn in the evenings. Council noted that the popularity of this area for parking had risen in the recent past due to uncertainties around the cost and use of the main public car park.  Clerk to again raise with C&CS Peter Beynon.

Concern was raised with regard to the disabled car park area at the roundabout which was again suffering from frequent build up of sand and from the boundary wall which presented a dangerous unprotected drop for pedestrians.

Concern was raised with regard to the surface drain on the side of the A4118 just before St Cattwg’s church. Repairs had been ongoing for some time but there was concern that on completion there would remain a deep open drain which would be hazardous to pedestrians.

• Correspondence

Clerk advised that he had received further correspondence from Mrs Walker concerning the green at Overton. In particular that the marker stones were no longer proving a deterrent to vehicles to park on the green. Councillor Evans advised that he would re-visit the area to see if improvements could be made.

Clerk advised that he had received letters from three residents in Knelston concerning the planning application for land adjacent to Dinglebank. These were considered with the application as above.

• Communications, Notice Boards, Etc

Again, no matters for consideration.

• Village Halls

Port Eynon – Cllr. Robert Fisher advised that he had written to the VHMC regarding the boundary encroachment from a caravan pitch and had emphasised that this was a matter that should be considered under the regulations for a party wall. A copy of letter was tabled for information of Councillors.

Llanddewi – Chair advised that he had been unable to contact Mr Walters.

1. Knelston Burial Ground.

Clerk advised, on behalf of the Trustees, that there was nothing to report.

1. Any Other Business            

Councillor Evans advised of his recent experience in the main car park at Port Eynon. He  was recently in the car park at approximately 8:30 pm and observed the gates being closed and possibly locked. He had to hastily exit the car park. He advised that it was his understanding that the car park was to remain open until 11 pm. But noted that the sign on the gate indicated hours of 8 am to 8:30 pm. The notice board on the toilet block advised hours of 8 am to 9 pm. He questioned what course of action was to be taken by a resident if they found their car locked in the car park, noting that there were no contact details given on the gates or the notice boards. Clerk was requested to raise with C&CS Peter Beynon.

Councillor Evans drew attention to previous discussions concerning the village green area in Port Eynon and wondered if this matter could be further addressed with a view leasing the area to preserve it for community use.

Next meeting – Unless there were urgent issues Council agreed not to meet in December and that next scheduled meeting would be Monday 18^th January, 7 pm. At Knelston School.

There being no further business to discuss the Chair thanked all in attendance and the meeting adjourned at 9: 00 pm.

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Barry Stubbings (Clerk)                                                                                                       Robert Fisher (Chair)

18^th January 2020

Approved minutes of Council Meeting October 2019

Port Eynon Community Council

Minutes of monthly Council meeting held on Monday 14^th October 2019 at Knelston Primary School

Present                  Councillors: Martin Cox, Gareth Evans, Robert Fisher, Sheila Fisher, Gareth Jones David Lewis and Steve Young.

Apologies:             none

In attendance       Mr.Barry Stubbings – Clerk;

                                Residents of Scurlage –  Mr. Graham Howarth and Mrs Tracey Howarth

Chair                       Councillor Robert Fisher took the Chair and invited those members of the public present to address the meeting.

                                Mr. & Mrs. Howarth, on behalf of all residents in Scurlage, expressed concern over the lack of control of vehicle speed on the A4118 Port Eynon Road. They explained that they had organised a petition of residents and that this petition had been presented to the local Member of parliament Ms Antonia Antoniazza. Subsequently they had met at Scurlage with Mr. Lyn Jones of Swansea City Council and pointed out the hazardous stretch of road which included blind junctions at Berry road and Muddy Gap, bus stops on each side of the road, and in the summer months an ad hoc junction serving the Scurlage Farm shop via a field gate. They also stressed that the opposed service bus stops were used by numerous school busses.

                                The Chair responded to say that the Community Council had been pressing for many years for physical traffic calming measures to be introduced to reduce traffic speed and had offered to contribute to the cost of such measures from their limited budget. He further advised that their had been no response from the City Council to complaints from the Community Council and no contact with regard to this resident’s petition other than to advise that the same had been received.

                                Mr & Mrs Howarth thanked the Council for the sympathetic hearing they had received and all agreed to share any further developments. Mr & Mrs Howarth then left the meeting.

                                The Chair commenced the business of the regular Council Meeting.

1. Minutes                 Clerk confirmed that the draft minutes of the last meeting held on 14^th September 2019 had been circulated to all Councillors; also that the confirmed minutes of the July council meeting had been displayed on the Council notice boards and posted on the web site. Minor corrections were made. It was proposed by Councillor Gareth Evans, and seconded by Councillor Martin Cox that the minutes be accepted and this proposal was agreed by all.

• Declarations of Interest      None were declared.

• Matters Arising

SCURLAGE GREEN –

Bench seat – Clerk advised that he had received no response from C&CS Highways Dept concerning the removal of the bench seat.

Traffic speed – Clerk advised that he had written to C&CS Highways Dept. on traffic calming and possible provision of ‘Gateway’ signage for the village. He had sent a reminder and copied correspondence to Cllr. Richard Lewis but again was yet to receive any response. Cllr.Young advised that he was being pressed by many residents to take action to have ‘speed bumps’ installed. Clerk advised that he had been in contact with C&CS and requested the installation of speed monitoring strips in the vicinity of the junction with Berry lane.

                                FOOTPATHS –Cllr Steve Young advised that the footpath thro’ to the Sports Ground had been cleaned but a long term solution was still required.

It was agreed that Clerk should address all of the above long standing issues to the Council Chief Executive.

DEFIBRILLATORS –Clerk advised that the Council’s application for lottery funding had been declined with an indication that community support had not been demonstrated.

• Finance 

Committed expenditure was presently:

                                                Port Eynon Village Green works- £2,000

                                                Scurlage Village Green works – £2,000

                                                Scurlage traffic speed management – £3,000

Clerk confirmed that there were adequate resources to meet these commitments.                           

• Planning  

Clerk provided a resume of applications recently considered and now approved or refused

2019/1556 Llais y Don, Overton lane, SA3 1NR – Extensions, Porches, canopy and front patio area.

Council noted that the proposal amounted to considerable reconfiguration and extension of the existing building. Reference was made to a detailed objection from owners of the neighbouring property. Council expressed concern over the extent of the additions to the present property and in particular, to the proximity of the side extension to the property boundary. Council further noted the incorporation of flat roof areas which would not be consistent with the Gower AONB Design Guides. Overall Council concluded by majority that the application could be recommended for approval provided the above concerns could be addressed.

Application approved on 5^th November 2019.

2019/1982 Milestone Court, Scurlage, SA3 1AX – Proposed new dwelling house and attached Garage.

Council considered the application and noted that a previous application for a detached house at this location had already been granted, but an application for a pair of semi detached dwellings had been rejected. It was noted that this application increased the size of the proposed dwelling but now integrated the previously detached garage with the main house. Council expressed concern over the size of the dwelling which seemed inappropriate to what was effectively a ‘backland site’. In view of the previously granted application Council reluctantly accepted the modifications now presented. Application refused on 1^st October as representing over development of the site and being inappropriate.

 NEW APPLICATIONS

2019/2027TCA Box Boat Cottage, Port Eynon – To lop and crown lift one cedar tree. Council had no recommendations.

2019/ 2080  Manzell Kuchak, Port Eynon  – Two storey side extension and single storey rear extension.

Council considered the application which was for extension and improvement of an existing holiday cottage. Council noted that there was no provision for parking at the existing property and there would be none after the improvements are carried out. Car parking in the immediate area is already problematic. Council further noted that the proposed fenestration would appear to not be compatible with the AONB design guide and expressed reservations over the proposed balcony.

Overall Council recommended that the application be refused.

• Highways and Footpaths

No new matters considered.

• Correspondence

Clerk advised of no issues for consideration

• Communications, Notice Boards, Etc

Again, no matters for consideration.

• Village Halls

Port Eynon – Cllr. Robert Fisher advised that he had written to the VHMC regarding the boundary encroachment from a caravan pitch and had emphasised that this was a matter that should be considered under the regulations for a party wall.

Llanddewi – Nothing to report.

1. Knelston Burial Ground.

Clerk advised, on behalf of the Trustees, that there was nothing to report.

1. Any Other Business            

Cllr. Sheila Fisher advised that arrangements had been made for a brief service of rememberance at the Scurlage Green Memorial on Monday 11^th November. All were welcome to attend and clerk agreed to publicise on Council notice boards and web site.

Cllr Steve Young advised that he had been approached by residents in Monksland road concerning the dangers presented to children who were attending evening coaching sessions at the sports Club. After discussion it was agreed that children should be encouraged to use the footpath link alongside Monksland Court and not the main road. Council would look into the possibility of improving this link to remove unnecessary vegetation and provide solar powered bollard lighting.

Next meeting – Monday 18^th November, 7 pm. At Knelston School.

There being no further business to discuss the Chair thanked all in attendance and the meeting adjourned at 9: 00 pm.

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Barry Stubbings (Clerk)                                                                                                       Robert Fisher (Chair)

18^th Nov 2019

Confirmed minutes of Council meeting September 2019

Port Eynon Community Council

Minutes of monthly Council meeting held on Monday 9^th September 2019 at Knelston Primary School

Present                  Councillors: Martin Cox, Robert Fisher, Sheila Fisher, Gareth Evans, Gareth Jones and Steven Young.

Apologies:             Councillors: David Lewis

In attendance       Mr.Barry Stubbings – Clerk;                             

Chair                       Councillor Robert Fisher took the Chair.

1. Minutes                 Clerk confirmed that the draft minutes of the last meeting held on 15^th July 2019 had been circulated to all Councillors; also that the confirmed minutes of the June council meeting had been displayed on the Council notice boards and posted on the web site. It was proposed by Councillor Martin Cox, and seconded by Councillor Gareth Evans that the minutes be accepted and this proposal was agreed by all.

• Declarations of Interest      None so declared.

• Matters Arising

SCURLAGE GREEN –

Bench seat – Clerk advised that he had received no response from C&CS Highways Dept concerning the removal of the bench seat.

Traffic speed – Clerk advised that he had written to C&CS Highways Dept. on traffic calming and possible provision of ‘Gateway’ signage for the village. He had sent a reminder and copied correspondence to Cllr. Richard Lewis but again was yet to receive any response. Cllr.Young advised that he was being pressed by many residents to take action to have ‘speed bumps’ installed. Clerk advised that he had been in contact with C&CS and requested the installation of speed monitoring strips in the vicinity of the junction with Berry lane.

                                FOOTPATHS –Cllr Steve Young advised that the footpath thro’ to the Sports Ground had been cleaned but a long term solution was still required.

DEFIBRILLATORS –Clerk advised that he had made an application to Lotteries Fund for Wales for a grant of £7,500 for four defibrillators accompanied by a commitment of Council funds up to £1,000 for installation costs and training. He had received acknowledgement of the application.

NOTICE BOARD AT KNELSTON – Clerk advised that he was in receipt of new MMT notice board to replace the present board at the burial ground and would install as soon as he could.

• Finance 

Committed expenditure was presently:

                                                Port Eynon Village Green works- £2,000

                                                Scurlage Village Green works – £2,000

                                                Scurlage traffic speed management – £3,000

                                                Defibrillators – £9,000 (with possible grant aid of £7,500)

                                                New notice board at Knelston burial ground – £675

                                                Annual membership of One Voice Wales – £133

Clerk confirmed that there were adequate resources to meet these commitments.                           

• Planning  

Clerk provided a resume of applications recently considered and now approved or refused

2019/1419 Land North of 2 Frogmoor Cottages, Frog Moor lane. Conversion of garage to a two bedroom holiday cottage

Council noted that there was a previous application in 2018 (2018/1267) for conversion of the same garage building into a two bedroom holiday home and that this was refused. The existing building was considered to be unsuitable for conversion and the resultant building would be of inappropriate scale and design.

Council noted that the present garage building was no longer associated with the adjacent cottages and that it was significantly isolated in an adjoining field and had no apparent usage or purpose. Council were of the opinion that the present appearance of the building was incongruous. Council considered that the proposed conversion would serve to improve the usage and appearance of the building. Council agreed by majority to support the application.

Application refused on 19^th June 2019 as existing building is not appropriate for conversion and resultant building would be an inappropriate suburban form.

2019/1587 PRE. Conversion of office building to a two bedroom dwelling

Council noted that the building in question was originally constructed as a pharmacy to serve what was then an adjacent doctor’s surgery building. It has latterly been in use as commercial office premises. The building is located in a residential context on a small infill site and in close proximity to the adjacent residential bungalow. Council were of the opinion that the present building was inappropriate to its residential surroundings and that the proposed conversion would offer significant visual improvement. Concern was expressed that the resultant accommodation was very limited for its purpose as a self-contained residential dwelling. Overall Council, by majority, recommended that the application be granted.

Application refused on 24^th July as an inappropriate form of development which could be considered as detrimental to the character and appearance of the settlement.

NEW APPLICATIONS

2019/1156 Llais y Don, Overton lane, SA3 1NR – Extensions, Porches, canopy and front patio area.

Council noted that the proposal amounted to considerable reconfiguration and extension of the existing building. Reference was made to a detailed objection from owners of the neighbouring property. Council expressed concern over the extent of the additions to the present property and in particular, to the proximity of the side extension to the property boundary. Council further noted the incorporation of flat roof areas which would not be consistent with the Gower AONB Design Guides. Overall Council concluded by majority that the application could be recommended for approval provided the above concerns could be addressed.

2019/1982 Milestone Court, Scurlage, SA3 1AX – Proposed new dwelling house and attached Garage.

Council considered the application and noted that a previous application for a detached house at this location had already been granted, but an application for a pair of semi detached dwellings had been rejected. It was noted that this application increased the size of the proposed dwelling but now integrated the previously detached garage with the main house. Council expressed concern over the size of the dwelling which seemed inappropriate to what was effectively a ‘backland site’. In view of the previously granted application Council reluctantly accepted the modifications now presented.

• Highways and Footpaths

Cllr. Lewis drew attention to the apparent disregard of motorists to the traffic control measures on Port Eynon hill. Present signage requires descending vehicles to give way to ascending vehicles. After discussion it was agreed that the relevant traffic sign should be relocated at a level corresponding to driver’s eye level. Inspection at site had confirmed that this was feasible at the present sign location. Clerk to write to C&CS Highways.

Cllrs Evans and Lewis drew attention to vehicles parking on the access lane to the Youth Hostel at Port Eynon. It was apparent that regular visitors were persistently avoiding parking in the car park and leaving vehicles on the access track. A Council Enforcement officer had periodically attempted to exercise control by issuance of parking tickets but this was having little effect. The question was raised as to whether this was a public highway. A similar situation existed for the parking area at the rear of Borva House.

Cllrs Young and Evans again raised issues concerning the ‘Inner Green’ area at Scurlage and the extent of fly tipping and abandoned or temporarily disused vehicles. Clerk confirmed that the matter had been referred to Sketty Housing Association.

• Correspondence

Clerk advised receipt of:

Notification from C&CS Transport re new bus time tables introduced by NAT bus Company.

Complaint on 6^th September from resident concerning works by Dwr Cymru at Overton Green and subsequent inadequate reinstatement work. Cllr. Evans advised that he was aware of the problem and had been in lengthy discussion with DWr Cymru and their contractors. A further delivery of top soil was now awaited following which the large stones around the green could be repositioned.

Complaint in July from visitors to Port Eynon concerning the poor cleanliness and maintenance of the public toilets and the general cleanliness of the beach. Clerk advised that the complaint had immediately been referred to C&CS Foreshore Officer, Peter Beynon.

Circular advising of activities of Gower Hedgerow Hub.

• Communications, Notice Boards, Etc

See previous note.

• Village Halls

Port Eynon – Cllr. Robert Fisher advised that at the VEHMC last meeting the Committee continued to discuss  the matters of wayleave payments from WPD, and the ownership of the land. Chair advised that he had found it necessary to write to the committee to clarify mistakes and omissions in the meeting minutes.

Llanddewi – Nothing to report.

1. Knelston Burial Ground.

Clerk advised, on behalf of the Trustees, that there was nothing to report.

1. Any Other Business            

Cllr. Sheila Fisher raised concern that the footpaths and verges in Scurlage had not received routine spraying to control weeds.

Cllr Steve Young drew attention the overgrown state of the bridleway between Llanddewi and Kings Hall.

Cllr Martin Cox drew attention to the signage at the Port Eynon Public Car park which appeared to act as a deterrent to evening parking as users could not be sure that vehicles would not be trapped inside the car park. Question swere raised as to whom had placed the current signage and why the park should be closed before 11 pm.

Next meeting – Monday 14^th October, 7 pm. At Knelston School.

There being no further business to discuss the Chair thanked all in attendance and the meeting adjourned at 9: 00 pm.

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Barry Stubbings (Clerk)                                                                                                       Robert Fisher (Chair)

20^th Sept 2019