Arno's Park Action Group
APAG meeting minutes
Wed 27th August 2008
General
PRESENT
Ken Taylor (KT), Becky Thoburn (BT), Jackie Norman (JN) - chair, Peter Main (PM), Jackie Freeman (JF) – minutes
Apologies
Barry McLeod (BM), Steve Pearce (SP), Emma Channon (EC), Rachel Schofield, Howard Millbank, Paula Perry (PP), Richard Fletcher (RF)
Next Meeting
PLEASE NOTE THE NEXT MEETING is now
Mon Oct 6th at 7.30pm at Arno’s Park Hotel
Minutes
Treasurer (KT)
FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES & MATTERS ARISING:
KT still awaiting name of independent party to carry out annual audit (SP to nominate) of accounts, prior to AGM.
3 - Secretary (JF):
Agreed to try and distribute agenda at least 2 weeks prior to meeting..
4 - Fund Raising Team Publicity:
Fund Raising Team (BMRF)
YANSET (Yanley & North Somerset Environmental Company) BM chasing feedback on the reasons for rejection.
Heritage Bid
All letters asking for support have gone out, some replies either asking for more information or in support, replies thanking for support done. No news from RF re the bid. JF to enquire whether any help is needed as deadline is close.
Open Spaces / Section 106 funding
No news re this bid. JF to enquire whether any help is needed.
Other Fundraising Opportunities:
BM to met with Andy Thomas in July and has other new opportunities to look into
Marks & Spencer Green Bag scheme still to be investigated as a source of funding.
BMX Park
BM has spoken to Claire Adams (CA) (community park manager (east)) who assures us that a risk assessment will be completed on the BMX track (as well as the whole site) by the end of August. She was interested to hear whether APAG had any views on whether or not the area should be fenced off. Any comments? Please forward to JF to collate for BM.
Bench(es and Bins!
CA has spoken to the Downs ranger (Gordon Milward) who has confirmed that a bench is available to be used in Arno's Park. She is checking that installation costs can be met by the Council. She is also aware that, before leaving, John Threadgold ordered some new benches for the park, including the one for the top of the hill. JN confirmed that Peter Wilkinson (Parks service manager) had apologised for delay and confirmed that bins and benches will/had been ordered and will be fitted.
Concern was raised regarding the time people are putting into the bid process – we may need more individuals to help - and whether the Council will still match fund in light of their Green Spaces Strategy planning. JF to ask BM/RF for comments.
YANSET (Yanley & North Somerset Environmental Company) BM chasing feedback on the reasons for rejection.
Heritage Bid
All letters asking for support have gone out, some replies either asking for more information or in support, replies thanking for support done. No news from RF re the bid. JF to enquire whether any help is needed as deadline is close.
Open Spaces / Section 106 funding
No news re this bid. JF to enquire whether any help is needed.
Other Fundraising Opportunities:
BM to met with Andy Thomas in July and has other new opportunities to look into
Marks & Spencer Green Bag scheme still to be investigated as a source of funding.
BMX Park
BM has spoken to Claire Adams (CA) (community park manager (east)) who assures us that a risk assessment will be completed on the BMX track (as well as the whole site) by the end of August. She was interested to hear whether APAG had any views on whether or not the area should be fenced off. Any comments? Please forward to JF to collate for BM.
Bench(es and Bins!
CA has spoken to the Downs ranger (Gordon Milward) who has confirmed that a bench is available to be used in Arno's Park. She is checking that installation costs can be met by the Council. She is also aware that, before leaving, John Threadgold ordered some new benches for the park, including the one for the top of the hill. JN confirmed that Peter Wilkinson (Parks service manager) had apologised for delay and confirmed that bins and benches will/had been ordered and will be fitted.
Concern was raised regarding the time people are putting into the bid process – we may need more individuals to help - and whether the Council will still match fund in light of their Green Spaces Strategy planning. JF to ask BM/RF for comments.
5 - Head of Dog
No feedback. The group wishes to thank all the dog walkers who regularly clear up after their, and others, dogs as well as regularly sweep up the broken glass/generally tidy the park whilst out walking their dogs.
6 - PR / Publicity: (SPe)
PR / Publicity: (SPe)
Nothing heard back from Ghislaine re possibly investigating the use of the apostrophe in Arno's. KT willing to investigate if we are successful in the heritage bid funding.
Website
Last quarters bill was £20. Funday summary & photos on website.
KT thought that contact details were not easy to find – agreed to make it easier/upload APAG’s useful numbers card.
Advance notice was given re the Webmaster fee increase from Jan 2009 (APAG to decide if this was acceptable and let the Webmaster know).
It was noted that the transfer of items to the webmaster needed to speed up. BT to discuss with SPe re workload and to consider (to ease this) whether, if 3 committee members agree then, items could be uploaded without needing SPe approval.
KT reminded us that it had been agreed previously to include a short summary of who the committee members were/positions held. All to write a few sentences and send to JF to collate.
Nothing heard back from Ghislaine re possibly investigating the use of the apostrophe in Arno's. KT willing to investigate if we are successful in the heritage bid funding.
Website
Last quarters bill was £20. Funday summary & photos on website.
KT thought that contact details were not easy to find – agreed to make it easier/upload APAG’s useful numbers card.
Advance notice was given re the Webmaster fee increase from Jan 2009 (APAG to decide if this was acceptable and let the Webmaster know).
It was noted that the transfer of items to the webmaster needed to speed up. BT to discuss with SPe re workload and to consider (to ease this) whether, if 3 committee members agree then, items could be uploaded without needing SPe approval.
KT reminded us that it had been agreed previously to include a short summary of who the committee members were/positions held. All to write a few sentences and send to JF to collate.
7 - Youth links: Position Vacant still
Youth links: Position Vacant still
APAG still keen to investigate the feasibility of a youth focus day but agreed weather needs to improve! JF still to investigate costs of mobile rock climbing tower and mobile skate park.
John Knowlson (Parks play space) BCC has attempted to get a net for the basket ball post. However the nets available fail the standard for finger entrapment for outside spaces and the equipment is so old that they can no longer get a net from the manufacturer.
APAG still keen to investigate the feasibility of a youth focus day but agreed weather needs to improve! JF still to investigate costs of mobile rock climbing tower and mobile skate park.
John Knowlson (Parks play space) BCC has attempted to get a net for the basket ball post. However the nets available fail the standard for finger entrapment for outside spaces and the equipment is so old that they can no longer get a net from the manufacturer.
9 - Cemetery links / development: PM
Cemetery links / development: Peter Main (PM)
Nothing has been heard back re the ownership/maps/boundary issues to clarify park/cemetery land.
Angels of Arnos tour of the cemetery attended by KT
Cemetery open day (historical and ecological interest): 13th Sept
Representatives from the Indian High Commission are due to visit in Sept
Many thanks to RS for feedback from Cemetery Trust:
RS clarified that the cemetery/park gate should be in place by January. No need for a boundary clearing day as contractors keen to clear in preparation for the fence.
The Cemetery Trust will reach a decision re the area of land at the back of the cemetery (natural pond and steep woodland behind) in January. BT has discussed with RS some possible uses if it was 'given' to the Park. KT was asked to investigate whether there was/is an orchard there. BT to confirm with RS re timescale as ideally we need a decision before the fence is erected!
One of the regular volunteers at Arnos Vale, and another member of the public, have reported that they had seen an adder near the path to the Park. Signs have been put in the Cemetery and all agreed that the safety advice should also be put on our website.
Bristol Primary Care Trust are working with the cemetery on a project to extend the path from the War Cross 1 day a week. The path will be around 1-2 meters wide with a flat surface and contain steps at the park entrance. They are not able to make it wheelchair accessible because of the steep slope near the park but may find a solution to enable wheels of bikes or buggies to run alongside the steps. The cemetery trust have asked for a meeting to discuss proper signage. JF to ask RF whether funding was possible through the heritage bid (if we are successful). BM to contact RS re meeting to discuss funding applications.
A new estate manager will be starting on Sept 8th, and the Trust are looking for a new Chair (of the trust). PM confirmed that he is still happy to continue to be our Cemetery liason person. JF to let RS know.
No one aware of any flashers in the park/seen any signs.
Nothing has been heard back re the ownership/maps/boundary issues to clarify park/cemetery land.
Angels of Arnos tour of the cemetery attended by KT
Cemetery open day (historical and ecological interest): 13th Sept
Representatives from the Indian High Commission are due to visit in Sept
Many thanks to RS for feedback from Cemetery Trust:
RS clarified that the cemetery/park gate should be in place by January. No need for a boundary clearing day as contractors keen to clear in preparation for the fence.
The Cemetery Trust will reach a decision re the area of land at the back of the cemetery (natural pond and steep woodland behind) in January. BT has discussed with RS some possible uses if it was 'given' to the Park. KT was asked to investigate whether there was/is an orchard there. BT to confirm with RS re timescale as ideally we need a decision before the fence is erected!
One of the regular volunteers at Arnos Vale, and another member of the public, have reported that they had seen an adder near the path to the Park. Signs have been put in the Cemetery and all agreed that the safety advice should also be put on our website.
Bristol Primary Care Trust are working with the cemetery on a project to extend the path from the War Cross 1 day a week. The path will be around 1-2 meters wide with a flat surface and contain steps at the park entrance. They are not able to make it wheelchair accessible because of the steep slope near the park but may find a solution to enable wheels of bikes or buggies to run alongside the steps. The cemetery trust have asked for a meeting to discuss proper signage. JF to ask RF whether funding was possible through the heritage bid (if we are successful). BM to contact RS re meeting to discuss funding applications.
A new estate manager will be starting on Sept 8th, and the Trust are looking for a new Chair (of the trust). PM confirmed that he is still happy to continue to be our Cemetery liason person. JF to let RS know.
No one aware of any flashers in the park/seen any signs.
10 - Neighbourhood Partnerships
No Update
11 - Environmental Report
BT/JN have chased BCC for responses to items previously agreed to:
Path from Withleigh/Somerset Rd through the park: The path is on the priority list for this year and will be repaired this year. Claire Adams (community park manager) will let us know the date when the work will take place.
Concrete pond/skate area: BCC are still waiting to hear re who owns this but are in the process of putting it on contract for cleaning.
Repairs to the wall near HTV studios have commenced.
Natural play spaces: There are plans (by BCC) to create a more natural playground when the playground is revised in the near future. BCC no longer has plans to create informal play spaces within the woods but is aware that some people are already doing this (ie. kids with bikes). APAG could arrange an adult action day to create such spaces.
BT to contact Events team and Chris Rogers (possible Environmental Lawyer re waiver) re insurance/health & safety issues re park event to create natural play areas. Bat / bird boxes: PP has contacted local schools. Head of St Anne's Jnr school keen to be involved. Plan to get the children making the bat/bird boxes this term. ?BTCV to help put up (SP to ask) at right time. BT may organise an event day if dates coincide and will contact Events Team.
BCC Green Space Strategy
Some members have attended these meetings. More are planned -1 general one to look at Brislington green spaces and 1 more specifically looking at Arnos Park. Meetings are held at Wicklea Community Centre, dates to be announced. JF to circulate once known.
Concerns were raised that not all user groups were being represented eg local nurseries/dog walkers etc. JN commented that councillors had been asked to comment on who should be invited and they assumed all had been. To ask RF how we can make sure that all who should be involved, are involved.
Path from Withleigh/Somerset Rd through the park: The path is on the priority list for this year and will be repaired this year. Claire Adams (community park manager) will let us know the date when the work will take place.
Concrete pond/skate area: BCC are still waiting to hear re who owns this but are in the process of putting it on contract for cleaning.
Repairs to the wall near HTV studios have commenced.
Natural play spaces: There are plans (by BCC) to create a more natural playground when the playground is revised in the near future. BCC no longer has plans to create informal play spaces within the woods but is aware that some people are already doing this (ie. kids with bikes). APAG could arrange an adult action day to create such spaces.
BT to contact Events team and Chris Rogers (possible Environmental Lawyer re waiver) re insurance/health & safety issues re park event to create natural play areas. Bat / bird boxes: PP has contacted local schools. Head of St Anne's Jnr school keen to be involved. Plan to get the children making the bat/bird boxes this term. ?BTCV to help put up (SP to ask) at right time. BT may organise an event day if dates coincide and will contact Events Team.
BCC Green Space Strategy
Some members have attended these meetings. More are planned -1 general one to look at Brislington green spaces and 1 more specifically looking at Arnos Park. Meetings are held at Wicklea Community Centre, dates to be announced. JF to circulate once known.
Concerns were raised that not all user groups were being represented eg local nurseries/dog walkers etc. JN commented that councillors had been asked to comment on who should be invited and they assumed all had been. To ask RF how we can make sure that all who should be involved, are involved.
12 - AOB
Event co-ordination team: Emma Channon (EC)/Steve Pearce (SP)
Funday feedback should have been minuted last meeting. Summary below/JF to circulate.
Emma/Steve would like to thank all those who helped both on the day and with the organising.. They would like it minuted that they were still short of volunteers on the day however.
Spent: £228 on inflatable and PA equipment hire. NB we are still awaiting BCC to refund insurance/licence fee (KT to chase)
Income: £243 from Donations (Police, Lopresti, Sandwich Run, general public, Puddleducks
£39.50 from face painting/tattoos
£67.20 from cakes/soft drinks
£112.30 from inflatables
Profit of £271. Income this year was less due to cancellation of Gladiator Duel Inflatable, which normally brings more revenue that expenditure and there was no raffle which normally brings around £300. However, the purpose of all events is to 'self fund' and we did this with an excess. The Bouncy Castle fell short as we limited the numbers on each 5 minutes for Health and Safety reasons. The money we now have in the APAG accounts should cover any event cancellation which the insurance excess will not cover.
Cake & Craft day – informal get together of local mums/young children. 20 children in 2 hours. BT to discuss with events team re risk assessment/indemnity needed.
Scrapstore Membership – planning to become a temporary member rather than annual in future as cheaper.
Funday feedback should have been minuted last meeting. Summary below/JF to circulate.
Emma/Steve would like to thank all those who helped both on the day and with the organising.. They would like it minuted that they were still short of volunteers on the day however.
Spent: £228 on inflatable and PA equipment hire. NB we are still awaiting BCC to refund insurance/licence fee (KT to chase)
Income: £243 from Donations (Police, Lopresti, Sandwich Run, general public, Puddleducks
£39.50 from face painting/tattoos
£67.20 from cakes/soft drinks
£112.30 from inflatables
Profit of £271. Income this year was less due to cancellation of Gladiator Duel Inflatable, which normally brings more revenue that expenditure and there was no raffle which normally brings around £300. However, the purpose of all events is to 'self fund' and we did this with an excess. The Bouncy Castle fell short as we limited the numbers on each 5 minutes for Health and Safety reasons. The money we now have in the APAG accounts should cover any event cancellation which the insurance excess will not cover.
Cake & Craft day – informal get together of local mums/young children. 20 children in 2 hours. BT to discuss with events team re risk assessment/indemnity needed.
Scrapstore Membership – planning to become a temporary member rather than annual in future as cheaper.
Date of next meeting: Monday 6th October at 7.30pm – Arno's Court Hotel.