Chestfield Parish Magazine
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Grasmere Pasture update from planning officer and footpath
proposals update inside this edition
Chestfield Parish Magazine
Edition 123, June 2021
Chestfield Parish Council
Correspondence to: 7 Beech Tree Avenue, Sholden, Deal CT14 0FB
Tel: 01227 773121. Email: clerk@chestfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk
Website: www.chestfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk
Page | 1
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8Chairman’s Message I was both honoured and delighted to be asked at last month’s electors meeting to carry on as your chairman for another year – a year that is filled with optimism following the relaxation of lockdown rules. Happy also that I can confirm that the parish council will soon be able to meet as a group in the very near future once again at the WI Hall, as we all return back to a life of normality following the most dreadful last fourteen months. As is usual in our first magazine of the electoral year, we have included each councillors’ brief report for the year, as well as my own summary of it. There are so many people to thank for their efforts over the past year that I think that we would have to dedicate several pages on which to do so, so I would just like to convey my sincere gratitude to everyone that has ‘done their bit’ during this difficult period – if we have learnt anything over the past year, it is that community sprit can never be broken – and no more so than in our own special village ! Regards Steve Cllr Steve Bailey, Chairman Chestfield Parish Council Maydowns Road rose beds The resident that volunteered to maintain the rose bed at the end of Maydowns Road/Chestfield Road has had to give up this role due to a change in circumstances. So we are looking for a new volunteer to do the odd weeding, a feeding in the Spring and careful pruning when required. Any receipted costs will be reimbursed. If you feel able to help with this, please do contact the Clerk. Page | 3
The Annual Electors Meeting for 2021
Due to the coronavirus pandemic we held our Annual Electors’
Meeting virtually on Zoom on Monday 29 March 2021. You can read
the full Minutes on our website.
Chairman’s Annual Report 2021
A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF THE PARISH COUNCIL
It goes without saying that this has been an unprecedented year in
the history of not just this village but the whole world, where everyone
has pulled together - no more so than our own parish council and
parishioners.
Our annual electors’ meeting originally scheduled for April 2020 was
cancelled due to the coronavirus lockdown.
Similarly, our May parish council meeting was also cancelled,
although we then dipped our toe in the water and embraced virtual
technology by holding our first virtual meeting on ‘Zoom’ on 28 June
2020 - this also became the annual meeting of the parish council,
albeit a month later than normal.
At that June meeting last year, I was again honoured to be asked to
be Parish Council Chairman for another year – but as I have said
before, although it is my name at the top of the page, every member
of your parish council is as important as the other.
It goes without saying that things have tended to slow down over the
past year in general – which I hope you will all agree serves to put
things into perspective given the world that became the ‘newer
normal’.
But we did manage to maintain an equilibrium in many ways, and I
would like to take a few minutes to highlight our successes achieved
during what has been a very trying and unpredictable year for the
Parish Council :
Following the announcement of the first lockdown in March, we
followed government guidelines in closing off the outdoor gym – I am
sure that you will agree that the mere sight of that yellow and black
hazard tape certainly gave a stark reminder of how things had
suddenly become a reality. But our efforts to combat coronavirus
didn’t stop at simply binding tape around things – did you know for
Page | 4
example that throughout the whole period our clerk Amanda has diligently been carrying out coronavirus risk assessments? Ironically, and perhaps because of the fact that many people staying were staying at home, we received an unprecedented 63 planning applications this year – a record number, and my thanks to all councillors who were involved with these, although I would like to take this opportunity to single out Cllr Fitzpatrick for all of his assistance and expertise with these. We do of course keep a very close watching brief on the emerging Grasmere Pasture new development, which is moving slowly to breaking ground – we expect works to start in the second quarter of this year – although the first aim of these efforts will almost certainly have to involve the flood attenuation issues that so clearly need a lot of thought from the developers. Whilst we are not of the mind to say “we told you so”, it does make us hark back to the Inspectorate Inquiry when we first mentioned the unsuitability of the land for the very reasons that are being experienced at the moment …. hindsight is a wonderful thing, but one can only wonder which direction the Inquiry may have taken had site inspection been carried out during a wetter, more inclement period??! We have not been able to carry out any Speedwatch checks since first lockdown, although I am pleased to announce that these will be returning in the next few weeks as lockdown eases and indeed traffic flow increases – good timing really! We have also been exploring the possibility of 20mph roads in the village – this was at the suggestion of our KCC Cllr Robert Thomas who agreed to be the scheme sponsor. As a result of direct and indirect consultation with our residents we resolved at our parish council meeting earlier this month to commission week-long 24/7 traffic data surveys for Molehill Road, Share and Coulter Road, Grasmere Road (the adopted highway section), Plantation Road and The Ridings. We will also commission another survey for Chestfield Road while doing this, not because it will be possible to get a reduction to 20mph on Chestfield Road, but to be better informed on traffic statistics for other areas of work, not least, planning applications. We are also helping to play a part (albeit small) in environmental matters around the village. Page | 5
We have so far had four new trees planted in the village and a further two residents’ requests for two more are about to be ordered. We would be happy to look into possible sites where trees could be considered, provided the relevant permissions were forthcoming. We have agreed a focus on climate change and produced an action plan that can be read in full on our website. We hope to soon have news on the planned wild-flowering of some of the highway verges, and possibly also on the actual village green in Molehill Road. This will help pollinators – something vital to our food sources. The key message to achieving net-zero is that everyone can play a part – and even a small thing helps. We have agreed a grant for the creation of a Petanque Court for use as a community facility for all residents, to be built at the Chestfield Cricket Club. This should be installed in the next couple of months, and we will add details of this to a subsequent magazine. One very contentious issue that emerged in the past year, was Canterbury City Council’s resolution to remove a parish councils’ right to call in any planning applications, and further to remove the ‘trigger of 4 or more objections’. Whilst this move has somewhat diminished the way we had previously dealt with planning applications – we will look to our Ward Councillors to act on our behalf, as it is they that will now assume the sole right of call-in. Please be assured that we will continue to work closely with our elected City Councillors in this regard – we are fortunate that we have always had a good working relationship with them, and we see no reason why this should be otherwise! A classic example of this concerned the newly granted Vattenfall Solar Farm bordering Chestfield, where we successfully negotiated a condition through our city councillor Cllr Ben Fitter-Harding that pre- works inspections of Molehill Road will be undertaken and any damage post works will be made good at the developer’s expense. One thing that we did not stop was the production of our quarterly magazine – understandably and with many of our valued volunteer distributors being deemed in the vulnerable category, the members of Chestfield Cricket Club had no hesitation in volunteering their help in delivering several rounds for the last four editions. My thanks to all involved. Page | 6
I was still able to lay a memorial wreath on behalf of the village at St. Johns Church on Remembrance Day, although this in itself was a very unique yet poignant service, attended by just myself and Father David, aided by two church wardens. However, this did give me an opportunity to see that the part-parish council funded repairs to the church bell had been completed. Because of the lockdown situation, we unfortunately had to cancel our planned art out-reach project, as well as our very important volunteer thank you get together events, although we most certainly hope that these will be back in our diaries for 2021. We also had to cancel the Carols Around the Christmas Tree gathering, and again let’s hope that we will once again to hold this in December. We did however, think it appropriate for us to erect the tree – I suppose it was our way of showing that you were all still firmly in our minds! Moving forward, we do have a few exciting projects in mind, and hopefully you will enjoy them also. Look out for a Seed Swap box alongside the village herb planters at the Women’s Institute hall later in 2021 – and hopefully vinyl film panels on the bus shelter near Maydowns Road to help combat any future graffiti. With regard to the flooding events throughout the parish in December 2020 and January 2021 we have now created a photo and video library of badly affected areas. I am pleased to advise that the Environment Agency has agreed to meet virtually with the parish council and present information and for us to ask wider questions. I have personally written to our Member of Parliament, Rosie Duffield voicing general concern about the introduction of new-build sites onto tired and aged infrastructure – not just in our own village but all other surrounding areas. I have requested that she broach the subject with her other ministerial colleagues within the housing and environmental areas. Shall we just say that I have received a form of reply from her office, but I feel that the whole point has been lost along the way – so I will be questioning this again, as I feel that this is an important and relevant topic that needs addressing. These have been just a few of the issues that the Parish Council has tackled this year, there are many more that I could mention, but the list would be endless! Page | 7
The question of when face to face meetings and the monthly
residents’ surgeries can resume in the WI hall remains unanswered at
present but we will keep all residents updated through our magazine
and the village noticeboards.
Believe me, and for reasons that many of you will be aware, I have
tended to rely on my fellow councillors and Amanda more than ever
this past year – for it is me that was forced to take a slight step back
from things, and for that I can only thank everyone, including many
parishioners for their messages of support.
At this point, I usually convey my thanks to all Parish Councillors (and
of course our very knowledgeable and hardworking clerk Amanda),
and lead a round of much deserved applause for them.
As every year I would also thank our army of volunteers in various
spheres for their efforts on behalf of the village this year, and for
making this the special village that is Chestfield!
But this year it will be a virtual, but heartfelt thank you for your efforts
this past year!!
Steve Bailey, Chairman, Chestfield Parish Council, 2020-2021
Chestfield Parish Council – 2021 Yearly Update from Your Councillors:
This year, once again, each Councillor has written a small description
of their duties and responsibilities, as follows:
Cllr Chris Brealy – Vice Chairman
My involvement was mainly with environmental issues and Climate change
matters. We are now keeping a photographic record of flash flooding to help
monitor how this situation is changing and I contribute to this.
I support the Clerk with meetings with KCC and CCC officers and as a result
we have planted more trees in verges. Three field maples were chosen to go
opposite The Barn PH, after consultation with neighbours. The village green
in Molehill Road is one site being put forward for a wildflower meadow and
others are being looked at.
I attended a zoom meeting concerning the Wilder Blean project and reported
back about this. It involves the reintroduction of 4 European Bison into the
Thornden and West Blean Wood with associated wildlife benefits.
I also support the Clerk with some matters of detail concerning the
Grasmere Pasture development. Most recently trying to ensure adequate
cycle path provision.
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Cllr Tricia Chapman This year has been very different for us all, but whilst many of us have been in lockdown, it is an ideal opportunity to start pruning shrubs and trees in preparation for the Spring and Summer. It is also, important to manage foliage which has spread over walls and fences onto pavements and pathways as this can obstruct walk ways and can cause slip and trip hazards. It is recommended that hedge cutting is avoided during the main bird nesting season which is from March until August. I am very much looking forward to the time when the Parish Council’s social events can resume and I will enjoy helping out and continuing to support the Chestfield village community where ever I can. Cllr Chris Ellis Lockdown has transformed Councillor work. There has been a growth in direct requests for information on protection against flooding as local residents close to me have been vulnerable in the past, also road closures and some commercial use of local house plots. Separately, I am a member of The History Society which has gained new interest as a result of the demands for home-based activities, and has become Zoom based. Interest in the future of shopping has translated into interest in the history of shopping. Cllr Patricia Gibson The Parish Council has continued its work, despite the restrictions of Covid, in many areas and has focussed particularly on planning and development issues and the impact on local services and amenities. Of particular concern, given the debate around climate change, has been the likely effect of housing developments on the increased risk of flooding. In the past I have been involved in catering for the Quiz Night, litter-picking, bulb planting and helping out with the herb garden outside the WI hall, but sadly because of the Covid restrictions these activities could not take place. The Council has operated through zoom meetings, which still feel strange to me, but I think we will have to continue in this format for some time to come. The trees that were planted last year are thriving and we still have a few more to plant when our local working group is allowed to get together. Once again, I would like to thank Amanda, our Clerk, and Steve our Chairman, for their hard work throughout the last very difficult year. Cllr Anne Loder I have now been on the Parish Council for 4 years and feel that I am much better informed not only about the Parish Council and its functions but also about Canterbury City Council and Kent County Council. My main areas of responsibility are Traffic matters, including being a Page | 9
Member of the Speedwatch Team, the Environment particularly where it involves Chestfield. I am also interested in Footpaths and Public Rights of way etc., rather more passively as I am not as mobile as I used to be! Cllr Robert (Bob) Todd This is now my fourth year on the council and though this has been a rather different year for us all, we have managed to maintain much of the routine parish business though sometimes in different ways. I continue to attend workshops. This year’s highlight was flood warden training which seemed appropriate after the weather we had at the end of 2020 and beginning of 2021. It has meant I am coming to know another side of Chestfield Parish, the waterways. I also undertook the upkeep of various benches in the parish and I am still looking to find the perfect no-maintenance treatment, expert knowledge always welcome. Cllr David Fitzpatrick I have now been on the Parish Council for 3 years and I have spent most of my time reviewing and commenting on many planning applications. There has been a record this year with 62 applications validated between May 2020 and March 2021. I am now currently working with my other councillors to try and sort out the flooding in the Chestfield area due to climate change, together with surface water and foul drainage issues. Cllr Lorraine East What a strange year we found ourselves in. All major events cancelled but not for the Parish Council who have still been busy behind the scenes. I undertook Flood Warden training with Cllr Bob Todd and together we are your flood wardens for Chestfield. Flood wardens play an important role in the warning and prevention of flooding within our community, helping and preparing those that are at risk of flooding. We have certainly seen some flooding in the previous months. As a Parish Council we have our own flood action plan which is acted upon and kept up to date. From a Net Zero Environment meeting 0ne of the key messages was that even a small change can make a difference. We have set up a working group to explore what actions we as a parish council can consider to improve bio-diversity and help reduce the carbon footprint. Bulb planting, tree planting, seed swap, wildflower gardens, bee-bombs. Lots of things planned so keep an eye on the Parish magazine for more information on this. All our meetings are now help on zoom and residents are welcome to join us and we would love to hear from you if you have ideas or concerns you would like us to look into. Looking forward with positivity after a challenging start to the year. Page | 10
Grasmere Pasture update CA/17/00469/OUT - Grasmere Gardens, Land South of The Ridgeway, Outline application for a mixed use development of up to 300 residential dwellings and 3,500 sqm of employment floorspace We have been given the following update from the Canterbury City Council’s Planner and lead case officer for this development on 06 May 2021: Grasmere Update Note The Grasmere site is a strategic site allocated in the Canterbury District Local Plan 2017 to deliver housing and employment space. Although refused by the Canterbury City Council, planning permission was granted by the Planning Inspector in 2019 at the appeal. Inspector granted planning permission and recognised the importance of further details, including highways, access, private right of ways, drainage and open space details, being provided at a later stage through planning conditions. The developer has now submitted details with respect to the construction management plan and phasing of the development (CA/21/00226), drainage details (CA/21/00486) and sustainability strategy (CA/21/01028). These applications are currently under consideration. You may have seen the activity on the site recently, the developer informed us that some archaeology and ecology investigation works were carried out. The developer informed us that they are intending to commence with Phase 1 of the development this summer. Future reserved matters application setting out the detailed design for the rest of the development are planned for submission in the late spring of 2021. Once the application is submitted, residents will have an opportunity to comment. Separately, the developer has submitted applications to Kent County Council under Section 278 of the Highways Act to carry out improvement works to public highways. Page | 11
Diversion of part of Public Footpaths CW88 and CW89 within the Grasmere Pasture site As the parish council previously noted in its representation to the proposed diversions of CW88 and CW89 within Grasmere Pasture, the proposal is for these routes to remain footpaths only and to not become shared footpaths/cycleways. A shared user route normally requires a substantial width (around 5 metres) to allow for segregation between the footpath and the cycle path. However, in this development this was not possible due to the space required. As the current status of the routes are footpaths then the developer is only required to maintain public access by foot and any upgrades are not required. However, the KCC PROW team has spoken to the developer and they provided a plan, that is shown on the front cover of this magazine, indicating the shared surfaces which will accommodate vehicles, cyclist and pedestrians. There is also a S106 obligation to undertake works to introduce a shared footpath/cycle route on Reeves Way. For the parish council’s request for improvements to The Ridgeway CW40. This currently is a 2m wide concrete surface which gets very wet. Whilst this is not part of the proposed diversion, the KCC PROW officer spoke to colleagues regarding the £44k contribution by the developer for surface improvements and visited the site to inspect the route. It is proposed that this money will be used to clear the route to a width of 3.0 metres and resurfaced, as well as drainage ditches cleared in an aim to reduce the surface water issues. However, it is likely that this will occur following the development. Finally, a proposed section of CW88 will have a ramp installed due to the potential drainage issues at that area, with the developer requested to build up the levels and install pipes etc if deemed necessary for drainage. The exact specifications of the ramp are to be agreed with the developer but it will be appropriate for use by the public on foot. KCC will also ask the developer to consider adequate protection around the attenuation basins and swales. It would appear that the developer has proposed a suitable alternative for the footpaths affected by the development which will continue to allow appropriate access to the public on foot, and as such any legal tests have been met. As such, KCC will recommend that an order for the diversion of these routes is made by Canterbury CC (who KCC is working on behalf of). Page | 12
Concerns Over Dog Thefts:
Kent Police are aware of the recent concerns raised by residents about
the number of dog thefts in the local community based on social media
coverage of the issue. Our PCSO can reassure all local residents that
there have not been any recorded incidents of dog thefts in the
Chestfield, Herne Bay or Whitstable areas in general for the entire year
of 2020 and up to 31 March 2021.
As a preventative measure Kent Police have PCSOs who make regular
patrols through Chestfield both on foot and in marked police vehicles
creating a visible precence to deter such incidents happening in our local
community. Kent Police strongly encourage all residents to report any
suspicous behaviour, theft attempts or a theft itself using 999 in
emergencies or via 101 when not an emergency. Report crimes and
incidents as well as non-injury road traffic collisions ONLINE directly
to Kent Police through www.kent.police.uk/contactus . Once a report is
made online, the user receives a unique reference number and a return
email confirming receipt.
The following article sourced from the Kennel Club gives advice on
Protecting against dog theft:
During the coronavirus pandemic, there’s
not only been an unprecedented rise in
demand for puppies, but also a worring
increase in the number of dog thefts
reported by the media. Owners should
remain vigialnt to keep their dog safe –
pandemic or no pandemic.
The Kennel Club encourages dog
owners to protect their dogs with six tips
below:
1. Be extra vigilant – The first thing to do is simply be alert – recognise
that dog theft may be on the rise and be extra vigilant. Make sure
you are always aware of your dogn’s whereabouts, whether you’re
home or out and about. If a stranger approaches you with suspicious
questions about your dog, its price or your address, be cautious with
the information that you share.
Page | 132. Microchip – Ensure that your dog is microchipped and that your details, including your address and phone number, as up to date with a microchip database such as Petlog. Correct microchipping information means that stolen or lost dogs which are found can be quickly reunited with their owners. Make sure your dog is wearing a tag on its collar with your up to date contact details too. 3. Secure your property – Many owners let their dogs roam in their garden, including breeders with litters of puppies. While this is a great set-up for dogs, it can be an easy access point for thieves and dogs may escape and stray from the property. If you are keeping your dog outside, don’t leave them unsupervised. Always make sure your garden and house is secure, keeping your dog but intruders out. Lock your back gate. 4. Keep your dog safe in public spaces – If you are taking your dog for a walk, make sure you can always see them and that they are reliaby trained to come back to you when called. Never leave dogs tied up outside a shop or other public spaces and choose dog-friendly establishments when going out. Don’t leave dogs alone in a car either, to prevent then from being stolen as well as suffering from over-heating. 5. Report any suspicious activities - To protect your dog as well as other dogs, report any suspicious activity to the police, whether it concerns your own dog and property, or you witness it. 6. Keep up to date photos of your dog – Having recent photos of your dog, including their size and any distinguishing features, can help to track the down, and also helps to prove ownership if necessary. It’s also a good idea to keep your dog’s important documents, like insurance and microchip number number, somewhere safe so you can easily locate them in an emergency. We hope these tips will help keep your dog safe, but if they do go missing or are stolen it’s crucial to act quickly. Immediately report the crime to the police and ensure you are given a crime reference number – and that your dog is correctly reported as stolen, not lost. Notify your microchip provider and alert your local authority dog warden if there is one, as well as nearby rescue centres and vets. Social media can also be a helpful tool to spread the word quickly. Page | 14
Overgrown Hedges and Overhanging Branches near Highways
Please may we remind residents to cut back overgrown vegetation
when and where required. May we also remind householders of their
responsibilities for keeping roadside verges tidy. It would be greatly
appreciated if you could ensure that any trees and hedges that are
bordering the Highway are maintained and cut back to your boundary
to benefit all Highway users. This will prevent the need for KCC
Highways & Transportation writing to you requesting that you cut
back your vegetation.
Your requirements are:
If the boundary of your property borders the footway, then
please be aware that:
▪ The full width of the footway/pavement must be available for use
by pedestrians.
▪ As well, there must be a minimum height clearance over the
footway/pavement of 2.1 metres / 7 feet for any vegetation.
If the boundary of your property borders the carriageway, then
please be aware that:
▪ For vegetation over-hanging the road, there must be a minimum
height clearance of 5 metres / 16 feet, to accommodate any
buses and HGV’s using the road.
▪ If your property is rural, then vegetation should be 0.45 metres /
1’6” feet behind the edge of the road and all signs need to be
kept clear of foliage for at least 20 metres.
If Kent County Council needs to arrange clearance of residents’
overgrown hedges, overhanging branches or private verge clearance
which are causing inconvenience to pedestrians and other road users
the householder will be invoiced for any expenses incurred.
Page | 15Bonfires and the law
Essentially, it is a common misconception that laws disallow garden
bonfires or give times they can be lit - there aren't. However, where a
neighbour is causing a problem by burning rubbish, the law is on your side.
Under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990, a statutory nuisance
includes 'smoke, fumes or gases emitted from premises so as to be
prejudicial to health or a nuisance'. To be considered a statutory nuisance, a
bonfire would have to be a persistent problem, interfering a great deal with
your wellbeing, comfort and enjoyment of your property. If a bonfire of
industrial or commercial waste is giving off black smoke it is dealt with under
the Clean Air Act 1993.
Burning garden waste produces smoke, especially if the waste is damp and
allowed to smoulder. Burning plastic, rubber or painted materials causes an
unpleasant smell and also produces a range of poisonous substances.
Smoke from bonfires can cause health problems for asthmatics, bronchitis
sufferers, people with heart conditions and children.
Action you can take to help
o Speak to your neighbour politely; they may not know they are causing a
problem.
o Keep a written record of dates and times when the bonfire is alight and
how it affects you.
o Always keep a record of all conversations and letters.
o Contact Canterbury City Council if the bonfires continue.
What you can do if you have to burn rubbish
o Only burn dry material.
o Never burn household rubbish, rubber tyres, mattresses or anything
containing plastic, foam or paint.
o Never use engine oil, methylated spirits or petrol to light a fire.
o Do not burn on damp, still days because smoke hangs in the air.
o Do not light fires at the weekend or on bank holidays when people want
to enjoy their gardens.
o Be careful if it is windy, because smoke may be blown into neighbours
gardens and across roads.
o Never leave a fire unattended or leave it to smoulder. Pour water on it if
necessary to put it out.
o If a bonfire is the most practical way to get rid of dry garden waste, warn
your neighbours in advance!
By law, the city council must investigate all the complaints they receive. If a
statutory nuisance is witnessed, they can serve an abatement notice. If the
person does not follow the notice, they could go to court. When assessing
whether a statutory nuisance exists, officers will look at the type and amount
of smoke produce, the time of day or night it happens, how long the fire is
Page | 16alight and how often it happens. If the fire is only occasional, it is unlikely to
be considered a nuisance.
The city council can also:
o Offer advice on what to do to deal with your problem.
o Keep your details confidential.
o Write to the person causing the problem.
o Write to you and ask you to keep a diary of the problem.
o Consider legal action against those people who continue to be
unreasonable.
Recycling - You can turn garden waste into compost in your own garden, or
the city council can take it away to be composted. Obtain more information
on home composting at http://www.recyclenow.com/compost . You can also
get rid of garden waste and household waste at the recycling centres in
Westbrook Lane, Herne Bay and Vauxhall Road, Canterbury. For more
information on recycling, please call 01227 862211.
Canterbury City Council’s Environmental Protection Section is open
between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. If you need help or advice
relating to bonfires, contact them by phone: 01227 862 202, or by e-
mail: pollution@canterbury.gov.uk or by completing an online complaint
form. In person or in writing at: Environmental Protection Section,
Canterbury City Council, Military Road, Canterbury CT1 1YW.
Plea for more speedwatch volunteers
If anybody can spare an hour or more once a month to monitor and
record speeding vehicles through the village we’d love to hear from
you – Contact the Clerk for more information of what’s involved to join
our friendly and dedicated team. An online registration and short
training video need to be done first off.
To receive current parish council meeting Agenda and Minutes
electronically, please provide your email address to the Clerk. Minutes also
include our planning appendix which lists the local planning applications –
those current at the time of the meeting and decisions made by CCC.
Coronavirus support
A reminder about The Kent Together service which is for anyone in Kent
who is in urgent need of help during the coronavirus outbreak - If you
are vulnerable and have an urgent need that cannot be met through existing
support networks, contact the Kent Together helpline by calling on 03000 41
92 92 or at www.kent.gov.uk/KentTogether . It is a 24-hour service.
Page | 17Parish Council Flood Wardens
Cllr Bob Todd and Cllr Lorraine East are flood wardens for the village.
They have been looking at potential hazards, and visually inspecting sluice
gates and drains in Chestfield, and any problems will be reported to the
Environment Agency. Chestfield is a large area and if any residents spot any
potential hazards (such as fallen trees or debris or blockages in The
Swalecliffe Brook) you may contact either of them so that they can be
onwardly reported. (Contact Cllr Lorraine East on 07798883391 or by email
to lorraineeast@btinternet.com or Cllr Bob Todd by email to
bobtodd50@gmail.com
Sorry we cannot report soggy gardens but real flood hazards only please.
Flood Wardens may also know about our disabled and elderly and
vulnerable in case of any flood risk incidents. If you consider yourself to be
at risk please also contact either Lorraine of Bob with your details and your
circumstances. (Your personal details will only be used for this purpose.)
The Environment Agency has also provided them with a leaflet called ‘living
on the edge’ for riparian owners. If anybody would like one again please
contact Bob or Lorraine.
Virtual meeting with the Environment Agency on 28 April 2021
There was fast flow and flooding of Swalecliffe Brook during 26-28
December 2020 that flooded Grasmere Pasture and the Chestfield
Cricket Club and the bottom of Radfall Road and other areas of the
village and a further flooding event took place on 14 January 2021.
The Environment Agency offered a virtual meeting with the parish
council on 28 April 2021, together with the cricket club manager.
o The 2020 winter was wetter than average with 168% more rainfall
than the average. This was a similar situation across all of East Kent.
o The Swalecliffe Brook discharges out to sea so there are tidal
elements to contend with.
o The river was not obstructed during the two flood events of 26
January 2020 and 14 January 2021. The main difference between the
two events was that there was a significant amount of rainfall over a
very short period of time.
o The EA is putting in a funding bid for central government funding for
next year’s programme to be able to undertake an update to the flood
modelling. They are adding new data and photos to assist this. The
EA is to send questionnaires shortly to all households and businesses
along the Swalecliffe Brook to help with the update to flood modelling.
Page | 18Then based on how many and who is at risk, viable options to lessen
flood risk will be determined.
o Previously only residential properties were considered in flood risk –
from this year the EA can include businesses.
o The EA has to compete for funding on a national basis for central
government funding. Improvement options may include storing water
upstream; diverting water around; flood walls; and/or property
resilience for individual properties such as flood-proof doors, covers
on airbricks, etc.
o The EA is continuing to improve its flood warning service.
o For the sluice gates at Swalecliffe - The cricket club suffers from
either backed up water – or the torrents coming from the Canterbury
area side. There is an improvement to be implement and provide a
spare culvert – subject to planning permission and Marine
Management Organisation permission – CCC is leading on this, and
the timescale construction of the spare culvert is within the next two
years. CCC does deal with the shingle build up at this point too.
o The EA has Catchment Flood Management Plans. Swalecliffe Brook
falls under “Policy 4” whereby the EA is managing but may have to do
more to cope with climate change.
o Field teams do go out on site during flood alerts, and for example,
check flows, check for blockages, etc.
o The EA commissions ariel photos for large catchment events, for
example, the river Stour, to establish where the water is on the
ground.
The Environment Agency has also offered a face to face in-person
meeting at the cricket club too in June 2021. This will be attended by
EA reps, cricket club representatives, CCC Cllr Fitter-Harding, and
Chestfield Parish Council.
Useful links:
Incident Hotline – 0800 80 70 60
Flood warning service – https://www.fws.environment-agency-
gov.uk/app/olr/register
Riperian Ownership – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/owning-a-watercourse
Canterbury City Council – flooding@Canterbury.gov.uk
Page | 19Information from Kent Wildlife Trust: West Blean and Thornden Woods:
Dear Horse rider and stable owner,
Forthcoming changes to Kent Wildlife Trust’s West Blean and Thornden
Woods nature reserve will have an impact on how all visitors use the site.
For horse riders this, unfortunately, means no more access on horseback
will be permitted from the 31st August 2021.
The Wilder Blean is a joint project between Kent Wildlife Trust and Wildwood
Trust, the project will promote stronger habitats by restoring natural
processes that are able to withstand the current climate crisis and species
decline, and in the long run, reverse it.
In the UK, lack of woodland management is one of the eight biggest drivers
of species decline. Wilder Blean aims to bring transformational change
through a controlled trial with bison; a missing keystone species that is able
to naturally manage woodlands.
European bison are being used in this project because they are ecosystem
engineers, meaning that they are able to change their environment through
their natural behaviours. Bison can change woodlands in a way that no other
animal can, they eat bark and create dust baths, both of which have benefits
for many plants and animals. These functions have been missing from UK
woodlands for thousands of years, bringing them back can help restore an
abundance of wildlife.
The project is split into three sections of the woods:
1. The 200-hectare bison area, which will have Exmoor ponies in too and no
public access.
2. Free roaming livestock area, which will have longhorn cattle and Exmoor
ponies (with Iron-age pigs able to move throughout both areas) This covers
the entire rest of the site to the east of Thornden Wood Road.
3. A control area with no animals, where traditional woodland management will
continue to the west of Thornden Wood Road.
This will enable us to monitor the effectiveness of each area in terms of its
benefits to wildlife whilst allowing access for the widest range of site users.
To ensure the bison are kept safely away from the public fences will be
erected, at some points either side of the two main public footpaths. At these
points the paths are perhaps only three meters wide with ditches, banks and
dense scrub either side. This will mean limited space for the public and free
roaming animals to pass each other.
In addition, to ensure that our livestock cannot wander off from the site, cattle
grids will be installed at all main entrance and exit points which is the best way
to prevent gates accidentally being left open. Where footpaths enter the site,
we will be installing kissing gates to prevent our animals leaving the site.
Page | 20We have been in talks with Alan Hiscox the Safety Director at the British Horse Society, his staff and our project partners, Wildwood to discuss the potential for safe horse riding on the site within the above constraints. After several conversations, sharing of site maps and an on-site meeting with Alan and his colleagues, we, KWT came to the conclusion that continued horse riding through this area would pose an unacceptable safety risk. Therefore, we have made the difficult decision to stop horse riding on site. While there are no official bridleways across West Blean and Thornden woods, having hosted horse riders informally up until now we know that this will be a significant change and disappointing news, but it is a decision based on safety for all site users including wildlife. There are other sites very nearby such as Clowes wood owned and managed by Forest England that can be accessed for horse riding. We have spoken with Forest England and have been assured that any additional riders would be very welcome there through the TROT agreement. We therefore hope you will be able to ride in this area in future. We will also remain in contact with the British Horse Society who are working with Kent County Council to improve road safety across the county for horse riders, and will publicly support this initiative whenever possible. We do hope that you will still frequent the site as a pedestrian in the future and enjoy the wildlife that it has to offer. We will be updating the information for all users in the notice boards on site in the coming weeks. All users will be affected by the project in some way. We thank you for your understanding which will help achieve our vision of a Wilder Kent. Yours sincerely, Evan Bowen-Jones, Chief Executive - Kent Wildlife Trust Additional Info: https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/wilderblean https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/west-blean-and- thornden-woods A ‘seed swap shed’ for residents to use The parish council has discussed a ‘seed swap shed’ for residents to use. Residents swap seeds in envelopes or small pots with each other. The Womens Institute is supportive of this and we hope to progress this project outside the WI hall in due course when the pandemic allows. Page | 21
A reminder of our Community Herbs planters at the WI Hall
Don’t forget to spice up your cooking by helping yourself to a few
herbs from the community herb boxes in front of the Women’s
Institute hall on Chestfield Road. Please just take what you need and
just cut or tear the leaves rather than the stems as well.
The following may be helpful:
Fresh Herbs Taste Dish Notes
Basil Cross between Tomato, mushrooms, Add at the end of
licorice and potatoes, chicken, the cooking time
cloves vinaigrettes
Chives Delicate onion Eggs, potatoes, salads, Use as a garnish
flavour sauces, vinaigrettes
Coriander An aromatic Associated most with For maximum
Mediterranean Asian and Central and flavour, it is best
plant of the South American cooking. added to dishes
parsley family. All parts of the plant are just before serving
Tart, lemon/lime edible, but the fresh
taste, soapy leaves and the dried
seeds are the parts most
traditionally used in
cooking.
Dill Tangy, pungent Seen a lot in Can use the
Mediterranean cooking seeds and the
greens
Marjoram Similar to Stuffing, beans, carrots, Great with fish,
Oregano but salds, egg dishes lamb and
sweeter vegetable dishes
Mint Strong, can be a Lamb, fish and salad Can be used in
peppery flavour dishes sweet and
savoury dishes
Myrtle Leaves have a The black berries can be Leaves can also
similar flavour to used to give a Middle be added to pork
allspice Eastern flavour to lamb dishes
dishes
Oregano Earthy, similar Meat, tomato sauces and Keeps its flavour
to marjoram matches nicely with when dried
lemon
Parsley Clean flavour Works well with almost Use only fresh
all savoury dishes
Page | 22Rosemary Strong, piney Great with chicken, Can easily
beans, breads overpower a dish
Sage Strong. Pork, chicken, sauces, Can easily
Dry sage has a stuffings overpower a dish
different flavour
Sorrel Sharp, citrus Perfect for adding a bit of
flavour bite to salads
Tarragon Anise flavour Tomato, mushrooms, Use alone
potatoes, chicken,
vinaigrettes
Thyme Minty, light Use whole sprigs in Thyme is also
lemon flavour soups, stews, cooked good in herbal
pork with cider and apple teas to help
dishes. alleviate the
Use leaves in almost any common cold.
savory dish.
Possible 20mph speed limits for some of Chestfield’s roads
The possibility of reducing speed limits on some of Chestfield’s roads
has been reported at recent parish council meetings and consultation
was undertaken with residents through the magazine and directly by a
leaflet drop to 301 properties.
UPDATE: At the 21 March 2021 parish council meeting, Cllrs resolved
that it was worth doing week-long surveys to produce evidence and then
make a decision on whether to proceed to the next stage, with KCC
agreement. Although there cannot be a reduction to 20mph along
Chestfield Road there is benefit in adding Chestfield Road to the survey
list to collect traffic data that may be useful for future planning
applications in particular.
An order has commisioned the KCC traffic data surveys for:
Grasmere Road (adopted section from Chestfield Rd to the bridge).
Molehill Road – from Chestfield Road to The Revel
Plantation Road
Share and Coulter Road
The Ridings and Polo Way.
plus Chestfield Road (for information only)
The surveys should be undertaken in late June/July when it is not school
holidays and when all coronavirus restrictions should be eased by the
government and then the data collated should be a return to normality.
Page | 23Gardening for a Wilder Kent – water for wildlife – another article in a series from Val Rea, Kent Wildlife Trust volunteer advisor. Ask anyone who gardens for wildlife and they will tell you that installing a pond is one of the best things you can do. There is a mass of information on how to do this, including on the Kent Wildlife Trust website. Here I am going to write about other, easier ways of providing water for wildlife. The birds and the bees Birds need water all year round – a beautiful stone bird bath or just a shallow dish on the lawn. Keep it topped up and the birds will find it. But because you will attract so many birds there is a real danger of disease being spread amongst them, so regular cleaning is vital. The RSPB give clear advice on this at: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and- wildlife/advice/how-you-can-help-birds/birds-and-water/ And not only birds – you may find honey bees and other insects drinking from your bird bath, and often drowning themselves. Another dish, full of pebbles with water not quite covering them, provides a much safer watering hole. Incidentally, honey bees don’t actually ‘drink’ water – but they carry it back to the hive to help keep their brood cool and to moisten their stored honey. Hoverfly lagoons Some of you will have heard Prof Dave Goulson speak, or read his books – I do recommend The Garden Jungle. In it, he explains how to make lagoons for hoverfly larva. ‘All you need is a waterproof container, some organic matter, such as lawn clippings or fallen leaves,and a few small sticks. You place the organic matter in the container, fill it with water, shove in the sticks so that they protrude from the top (allowing the full-grown larvae to climb out), and place the whole lot in a quiet corner of the garden’. You may find that, like me, you have inadvertently created these behind the dustbins or the shed where a discarded container has filled with water and leaf mulch. Page | 24
There are over 240 species of hoverfly in England – not all with an aquatic phase – but they are all brilliant pollinators for your fruit and veg. And though some look like wasps – they don’t sting. Drought-tolerant plants Many of us are turning to drought-tolerant plants to cope with our increasingly dry summers. All the Mediterranean herbs – lavender, thyme, sage, rosemary, marjoram – can withstand dry summers, but they hate being wet in winter, so need to be grown in well drained soil or pots. If you already have established plants, May is the month to take cuttings from them which you could share with neighbours at your next plant sale. Cuttings and new plants will need watering until they are established. As a bonus, each of these herbs provides nectar for butterflies, bees, hoverflies and other beneficial insects. Oh, and another bonus is, you can cook with them! To help you garden for a Wilder Kent, we are running some study days and open gardens – check out the web site for details: https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/explore/education/wildlife-study- days Happy gardening! Val Rea, Kent Wildlife Trust volunteer advisor. Page | 25
Letters and Jokes page all contributions welcomed Why did the wedding cake need a tissue? Because it was in tiers. Did you hear about the greedy clock? It went back four seconds. Which Spice Girl can carry the most petrol? Geri can. How do you light up a football stadium? With a football match. I keep having a nightmare where I’m a marquee, then one where I’m a tepee. The doctor says I’m too tense.What do you call it when a hen looks at a lettuce? A chicken Caesar salad. What do you call a deer with no eyes? No idea. What do you call a reindeer with no eyes and no legs? Still no idea. DAD: It said on the news that an actress has stabbed someone. Think her name was Reese. Mum: Witherspoon? Dad: No, with a knife. I accidentally handed my wife the superglue instead of her lipstick. She still isn’t talking to me. My dog can do magic tricks. He’s a Labracadadbrador. I refused to believe that my dad was stealing from his job as a road worker. But when I went round to his house all the signs were there. Why do you never hear a psychiatrist go to the loo? Because the ‘P’ is silent. Two TV aerials got married. The ceremony was boring but the reception was great. Why did the Mexican man push his wife off a cliff? Tequila. I once bought a dog from a blacksmith. As soon as I got it home, it made a bolt for the door. Page | 26
Recycling Word Search
R R E C Y C L E V B I L M O
E G P O U I R S L W I U F B
P P N E N V I R O N M E N T
A L U I Q E K L E E B W R W
P A I B G A S C R O T E K N
S S Z C S A U U T F P S D E
W T A W Y D K T E A W Q A E
E I S T E X L C P R B J E W
N C R R S E U V A E G H C C
K G F Y S O C G N P Z L N X
BOTTLES ENVIRONMENT NEWSPAPER
PACKAGING PAPER PLASTIC
RECYCLE REDUCE REUSE
WASTE
Page | 27Visually impaired?
Why not join the Kent Association
for the Blind friendly Club!
Free transport is available.
The Whitstable and Tankerton Club meets weekly every
Tuesday at Swalecliffe Community Centre, St John’s
Road, Whitstable from 2pm to 4pm. For more information
contact Bernie Kooiman by email to bernie68@rocketmail.com
Kent Association for the Blind | www.kab.org.uk
51 London Road | Canterbury | Kent | CT2 8LF | T: 01227 763366 |
Registered Charity No. 1062354 | Company 03339912. www.kab.org.uk
Supporting sight impaired people to live independent lives
Lifeline.canterbury.gov.uk
01227 862 540
A lifeline alarm, worn on your wrist or as a pendant, is a service
provided in East Kent by Canterbury City Council's CCTV control
room, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Having a lifeline alarm
would help you or a family member feel safe and independent in the
home. To book your free demonstration or to make an enquiry please
call 01227 862540 or visit www.lifeline.canterbury.gov.uk
Did you know that there is an assisted collection for dustbins if you
are unable to put your bins out for collection yourself? Call 0800
0319 091 and you will be sent a sticker to put on your bins that says
an assisted collection is required.
Page | 28TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR THE HEALTH CENTRES
Whitstable Medical Practice (Harbour Street) : 01227 284320
Chestfield Medical Centre: 01227 795130
Estuary View Medical Centre 01227 284300 (Main Number)
For Out of Hours medical advice please call: NHS 111
Emergencies that are out of hours (other than 999) ring NHS 111
For Commuters: Whitstable Medical Practice offer early morning and late
evening appointments starting at 7am and evening appointments until
7.30pm. Appointments are available on various days at all of the Practice’s
sites (Chestfield Medical Centre, Whitstable Health Centre, Estuary View
Medical Centre) – book by calling the surgery where you are registered.
NHS Patient transport service - for people who cannot get to hospital or
clinic appointment because of their medical or physical condition - bookings
number 0800 096 0211 (open 24/7) For further information about patient
transport, including alternatives for people who are not eligible for patient
transport, visit www.km-pts.co.uk
Bus timetables are available from Traveline. Ring 0871 200 2233 for
details or visit the web site www.travelinesoutheast.org.uk
FREE BUS SERVICE to Estuary View – runs from Tesco, Whitstable /
The Plough at Swalecliffe / Priest & Sow Corner, Tankerton / Tankerton
Circus / Town Centre Horsebridge / Top of Borstal Hill. Starts at 9.30am
Transport by bus
The following web sites may be useful to you:
o https://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/travelling-around-kent/bus-
travel/plan-your-bus-journey
o https://www.stagecoachbus.com/plan-a-journey
o https://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/travelling-around-kent/bus-
travel/plan-your-bus-journey
o https://www.stagecoachbus.com/maps#tab2
Mini bus service and local volunteer transport schemes
1. Red Zebra volunteer car service – Red Zebra based in Whitstable,
has been set up in Whitstable through the city council. See
http://www.redzebra.org.uk/volunteer-car-scheme/
The scheme is for people who find it difficult to use public transport either
through age or a need for special assistance. It is aimed at helping people
get to essential health appointments and where resources permit, shopping
and social trips may also be possible. The scheme offers a return journey
and you will not be charged for waiting time, which is up to a maximum of
two hours. A longer wait e.g. a drop-off in the morning and collection in the
afternoon, will mean a double charge.
Page | 29There are charges to cover the cost of running the scheme and petrol
mileage, these are:
o annual subscription of £10 (or £15 for a couple)
o £2 administration charge per trip
o 45p per mile
All volunteer drivers are DBS checked and insured, and a driver who is able
to carry and assist with a wheelchair etc can be arranged. To arrange your
journey telephone Red Zebra in advance on: 01227 271111 - volunteers are
available to take your calls Monday – Friday between 10am–12.30pm.
2. Kent Karrier dial-a-ride service - will take you from your home to
set locations, such as the nearest town centre or supermarket. Group
bookings, airport runs and a shopping service are also available. All services
are operated with wheelchair accessible vehicles and our experienced
drivers will give you all the help you need. You are eligible to join if:
o you have a medical condition that makes travelling on public
transport difficult OR you live in a rural area more than 500 metres
from a bus route or railway station
o you are aged 85+.
You must join the scheme to be able to use it. It costs £5 per year and a
small fare for each journey.
Concessionary fare passes are not valid for travel on Kent Karrier services.
Carers or companions can also travel. They don't need to be members but
companions will need to pay the journey fare and carers can travel for free.
Download the Kent Karrier application form at
https://www.kent.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/4761/Kent-Karrier-
membership-Form.pdf , complete it and post back to: Kent Karrier
Membership, Public Transport, Kent County Council, PO Box 441, Aylesford,
ME6 9HJ. If you have any questions please call 03000 413567.
The information leaflets by district at the following weblink show you a
timetable for your area, where you can travel and who to contact to book a
journey: https://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/travelling-around-
kent/community-transport/kent-karrier#tab-4
3. Thanet Community Transport DIAL-A-RIDE - A door to door
service for the disabled and elderly for individuals, typically used for medical
appointments, shopping trips, days out and holidays. TELEPHONE: 01843
602030 or EMAIL: transport@transportinthanet.co.uk. ADDRESS: Thanet
Community Transport Association, Unit 2, The Lead Centre, Dane Valley
Road, St Peters, Broadstairs, CT10 3JJ. More information on their website:
http://transportinthanet.co.uk/
Page | 30ST JOSEPH’S CHURCH Chestfield Road, Chestfield, Kent, CT5 3LD.
Father Philip Glandfield – Tel 01227 272758. Email whitstable@rcaos.org.uk
Website www.rcourladywhitstable.org.uk
SATURDAY (First Mass of Sunday) :
6:00pm Mass at Our Lady Immaculate, Northwood Road, Whitstable
SUNDAY :
8:30am Mass at St Joseph’s, Chestfield
10:30am Mass at Our Lady Immaculate, Whitstable
Note: Above details are for usual times, etc but may, of course be
subject to change due to funerals, holidays, etc.... details for each week
can be found on: www.rcourladyimmaculate.org.uk
ST JOHN’S PARISH CHURCH Swalecliffe Court Drive.
Revd Simon Tillotson (Interim Priest in Charge)
Tel: 07833 448287 or 01227 272308
Email: swalecliffestjohns@gmail.com or simon@teamvicar.org
SUNDAYS:
11.15 am Morning Worship (with Communion every 4th Sunday)
WEDNESDAYS:
10am Holy Communion, St John's Church Centre, St John's Road
For details of these and other events please see the parish church website:
www.swalecliffestjohns.co.uk
For information about our children's and families ministry contact Jane Myhill
(jane.myhill@btinternet.com or telephone 07761 963971
SWALECLIFFE FREE CHURCH (BAPTIST)
Swalecliffe Free Church (Baptist) Herne Bay Road, Swalecliffe, CT5 2LR
Minister: Rev Tom Fisk. Phone no: 01227 274697.
All are welcome to our weekly Sunday services which start at 10.30am.
Email: sfcminister@outlook.com
Communion is served on the second Sunday of each month.
Further details of events at: www.swalecliffe-free-church.com
RIVERSIDE CHURCH Thanet Way (next to Amphenol) CT5 3JQ
Pastors Simon & Keely Bateson
Sunday morning services start at 10:30
Further details, including other meetings at www.riversideuk.org
Page | 31You can also read
