Agenda item

(KBF21)

(Report KBF21 refers)

The Kings Barton Implementation Officer introduced the report (Report KBF21 refers) which provided the Forum with an update on progress and future works. The following key points were noted:

• The most recent data showed that there were 171 occupations at Phase 1B. It was anticipated that 200 occupations would be achieved by Summer 2019. Overall, feedback from residents was positive although some issues had been raised regarding connectivity from both within the development and externally to it.

• The requirement for a community development worker was to be triggered at 200 occupations and in anticipation of that milestone; a job description has been drafted. A further update on this would be provided at the next Forum.

• The Forum was advised that the Barton Farm Academy Head Teacher had offered to attend a future forum to discuss their plans and ethos for the school. It was anticipated that the school would be opening in September 2020.

• Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council were in the process of adopting their “Movement strategy”. This was a significant document and would form part of the discussions at the next Forum meeting.

• It was anticipated that first occupations of Phase 1a would begin in July 2019. A submission of a planning application for Phase 2a was anticipated for the Summer 2019, copies of the display boards were provided with the update report.   

• Regarding Barton Meadows, an update concerning the activity of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust was provided which included a number of community activities.

• Finally, Officers suggested that the Forum may wish to undertake a site visit prior to the next meeting and if agreed, Officers would seek a suitable date for this.

The Chairman asked if any member of the public wished to ask any questions regarding the Officers update.  A number of questions were raised and responded to as follows:

• Following a question concerning the operation of the Traffic lights on Andover Road at the southern end of the site, Mr Westwood from Cala Homes explained that it was hoped that these would be operational in April following the resurfacing of the paths.

• Following from an earlier question concerning the installation of a footpath to link up with Buriton Road, Officers were asked for further information. The Forum was advised that they had met with the Head Teacher of Henry Beaufort School. The School had stated that they were currently anticipating a need to expand and estimated they had insufficient outdoor space.

• Mr Tucker from the Residents Association asked for further information regarding footpaths and cycle ways. The Forum were advised that this would be best dealt with at the next meeting during the planned discussion concerning Highways and Transport issues.

Following questions, Members’ debated the report and in conclusion it was confirmed that:

• There was general support to discuss Highways and Transport issues at the next meeting.
• There was general agreement to undertake a site visit before the meeting.
• Members’ also felt that further discussions concerning alternative options should be had with Henry Beaufort School.

RESOLVED:

                        That the content of the report is noted.