2006?

As the fag-end of another year sinks into the soon to be illegal ash-tray of Orwellian fantasy: what can we say about 2006?

Monty Panesar wins Beard of the Year.
Mark Ramprakash wins Strictly Come Dancing.
S Yorks Police have just prosecuted themselves for speeding.
The Top 40 is now downloads only.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 12/28/2006 06:50:27 PM

Darfur

http://www.maedastudio.com/2006/darfur/d.html

New planning fees

From today's Echo:http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/purbeck/

Planning fees are going through roof
RESIDENTS thinking about extending their homes have just days to get planning applications in - or face new fees of at least £950, and maybe thousands.

Road layout

The new road layout at the lights by the Catholic Church is all wrong. There is nolonger two lanes, so anyone wishing to go straight on along Victoria Avenue towards the seafront has to wait behind the majority of cars queued to turn right into Rempstone Road.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 12/20/2006 11:57:04 AM

SWANAGE BLUES FESTIVAL

The Seventh Swanage Blues Festival will be held in various venues around the town from 2-4 March 2007. Admission is free and further information can be found at www.swanage-blues.org

The festival brings a lot of business into the town on what would be an otherwise very quiet weekend, and it has grown hugely since the first one in 2001.

Organising, advertising and promoting this event takes a considerable amount of my time, energy and money, and I thoroughly enjoy it.However, I am now in a wheelchair and unable to earn money to subsidise the event like I used to, so if anybody would like to help in any way, you are welcome to contact me.

Ways to help include telling friends, relatives and customers; putting up posters; giving out flyers; or putting a link on your website.

You can advertise on the festival website from only £12 a year, make a donation or you might like to sponsor an artist's performance.

I'm also looking for people who can put up a musician for a night or two.

If you can help in any way, please contact me on 01929 422338 or via the website www.swanage-blues.org

Thank you and Compliments of the Season!

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Posted by Steve Darrington to swanage view at 12/19/2006 06:12:12 PM

Durlston Country Park £3.2 m lottery win

Congratualtions to the team at Durslton for their succesful bid for a lottery grant, which heralds a bright new future for Durlston Country Park

Christmas has come early for one of Dorset’s top countryside attractions, with a £3.2 million grant set to transform the site into a world-class visitor facility..... see more at http://www.durlston.co.uk/

Jobs for Swanage?

http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/purbeck/display.var.1076994.0.2m_redevelopment_will_mean_jobs_boost.php

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 12/16/2006 08:35:04 AM

Council meeting Mon 18 Dec

The next monthly meeting of Swanage Town Council will be at the Town Hall on Monday 18th December, with Public Participation starting at 7pm.

Community Partnership meeting 20 Dec

Agenda

Town Hall, Swanage
on Wednesday, 20th December 2006

at 2.00 p.m.

1. Apologies

2. Minutes of Meeting held 19th July 2006

3. Matters Arising from the Minutes

4. To receive and approve the MCTi Draft Plan – to be presented by Ann Faulkner
(Printed copies will be available upon request)

Please note:
A public consultation & exhibition will be held on 19th January 2007– venue to be decided.

5. To set date for Advisory Forum Public Meeting

Out of favour?

Is Swanage losing popularity as a holiday resort?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 12/10/2006 08:10:16 PM

Swanage hotspot?

Can anyone remember those halcyon days when Swanage annually neared the top of the U.K. sunshine league? Does anyone wonder why these days we seem to get less recorded sunshine than our neighbouring resorts? Statistics, incidently, that are published daily in the national press. Does anyone even care? Surely, it is in all our interests for the publication of this kind of information to be accurate, especially as Swanage relies so heavily on tourism? Apart from anything else, someone who works for the town council is spending a considerable amount of time updating notice boards outside both the Town Hall and the Information Centre with erroneous statistics. The reason for these inaccuracies is clear and incredibly simple. The Met.Office recording device located in De Moulham Road, moved to this site many years ago from the roof of a local building, spends the last hour or so of each day's sunshine - wait for it - in the shade!!! This situation should be laughable, but perhaps it is another reason for Swanage's fall in popularity as a holiday resort, loss of income and properity from which has affected us all. Comments please...

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 12/10/2006 06:26:54 PM

Ferry good news?

I've lifted this off the Ferry Website and brightened up a damp grey sunday:-
"Refit Latest as of Sunday 10th December.
A break in the poor weather has enabled us to refloat the ferry in Southampton and we managed to return it to Poole under tow on the morning of Saturday 9th December. After reconnecting the ferry to the chains we plan to carry out routine safety trials and adjustments during the weekend after which we will be able to resume service, hopefully early in week commencing 11th December. We will make every effort to return to service as soon as possible."

RobO

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 12/10/2006 03:04:01 PM

The Old Grammar School Site

What will be the future of this site? The lease to the Joseph Allnatt Centres ran out in 1997 and the site was sold by Dorset County Council in part to The Welfare Dwellings Trust. Part of the site was given to Swanage Town Council. The building is not listed, and the area is within the settlement boundary. Was the use of this Town Council land ever considered by the Town Community Partnership? The WDT is an equity release private family company who have made several unsuccessful attempts at getting planning permission. However the site remains undeveloped and must be a drain on the company resources. Lloyds bank as principal lender presumably holds the deeds.
Thanks to John Winterbottom for this research.

NEW SUBJECT

If you want to raise a new topic, post your comment in this section — just click first on Comments (bottom right), then on Post a comment (bottom left of the next window), and a new heading will soon be set up, allowing others to see and add their own comments. It seems it's sometimes easier to click on 'Post anonymously' than to open an account in your name - you can always add your name to your message. We try to keep posts civilized.

Commercial Road market

Saturday 9th December, 10 - 3, music, mulled wine, shopping ...

Those were the days?

Machine-gunned in Swanage:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/ww2peopleswar/stories/62/a3526562.shtml

Take care now!

3 signs in 30 m!
Originally uploaded by m.hadley.

Take care lest you fall.....
Be thankful there are people out there to look after you. In case you didn't realise that there's a cliff where the land ends and the sea begins, now you will be reminded every few metres if you walk from Peveril Point to the top of the Downs. Just don't forget your welding goggles so the neon yellow doesn't dazzle you blind.

Swanage Residents Assn (20 Nov 06)

If you're interested in the last meeting of the Swanage Residents' Association, the draft minutes may be seen at:

http://www.swanageresidents.org.uk [click on News]

(All a bit crude and clunky, and will welcome help and advice from anyone prepared to offer it!)

Famous Swanage people

Still more.

Donald Hume: Chequebook journalism that would be worth millions today saw Hume, a black marketeer and dodgy car dealer, admitting to a gruesome murder after twice being acquitted.

He spent 17 years in Broadmoor?

And was born in Swanage.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/24/2006 07:52:03 PM

ASBO

This Tuesday 21st Nov and ASBO was issued to Scott Green aged 24 of Holmes Rd following 9 years of crime and anti-social behaviour committed by him in Swanage. The ASBO lasts for 5 years and his prohibitions include an exclusion zone in part of the town centre and his neighbourhood. He is allowed to transit the exclusion zone in his neighbourhood to get home. He cannot enter any premises from which he has been barred which now includes most pubs in the town. He cannot consume alcohol in any public place in Dorset except licensed premises. He also cannot inflict harassment alarm or distress on any person in Dorset.

That is briefly it and a leaflet drop will be made within the next couple of weeks. A press release is also planned by PDC. I disagree that ASBO's do not work. PDC with the police have been involved in this process for almost 5 years now and have experienced total success with all our ASBO's. Unfortunately, much of what is written in the press is by people with axes to grind about ASBO's or those where politics plays a role. That is not to say that all ASBO's nationally are successful but invariably those that fail are due to poor enforcement or simply poor ASBO's.

In this area ASBO's are enforced rigorously as will Scott Green's. He has had ample opportunity to address is disgraceful behaviour over the years but chose not to do so. He now faces the consequences. The numerous victims he has left in his wake are pleased that this is now the case.

Courtesy of Sgt Bleasdale

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/23/2006 05:29:35 PM

Want a say in Swanage?

There will be elections in May next year for the Town Council. If you want a say in what happens in Swanage, now's your chance. If you want to stand as an independent, just call Peter Aston at Purbeck District Council (01929 55722) or the Town Clerk, Alan Leeson at Swanage Town Council (01929 423636) and they will help you on your way. If you have particular political interests, talk to a councillor from that party. If you have any affinity with the Lib Dems, you can talk to me, Mike Hadley on 01929 477171. I can promise you that you don't have to be obsessed with national politics: I'm not. I'm just interested in trying to make Swanage a better place. I look forward to a rush of young people keen to get their voices heard...

PDC Pensions?

Does anyone have any idea what percentage of our Council Tax goes towards Purbeck D.C. employees pension funds.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/20/2006 08:37:13 PM


A lot, hopefully.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/20/2006 10:17:01 PM

Arts in Swanage

Mike has kindly included a link to the Arts in Swanage (and Purbeck)website at www.cultureswanage.blogspot.com
If you've got any snippets of information or news about the Arts in Swanage and Purbeck, please feel free to post a comment there. We'd also like to see reviews of shows and events and notices of anything interesting coming up.

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Posted by Peter John Cooper to swanage view at 11/19/2006 10:18:36 AM

Residents meeting Mon 20th Nov

For those of you who are not members of the SWANAGE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION who, as a result do not receive a copy of “THE SWANAGE INDEPENDENT Newsletter” be advised that there is an OPEN meeting on MONDAY 20th at 7-30 pm at the MOWLEM Committee Room.

RobO
-

Ferry delay

From Echo online Friday 17 November

SANDBANKS Ferry will not be back in service on Monday as planned but, weather and sea conditions permitting, should be running again by the end of next week.

Special Dance show

Kathakali

This is something really special. REGHU NADHAN will be giving a Kathakali dance demonstration.

The session will he held at the Catholic Church Hall, Rempston Road, Swanage Saturday 18th Nov, starting at 7.30pm. there will be a charge of £3.50 for this event but will be a complimentary glass of wine.

See:
http://www.cultureswanage.blogspot.com/
or:
http://www.reghunadhan.com/

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/17/2006 05:53:07 AM

Rumours

The Rumour Mill - don' ya just luv it?

Dorset County Council are considering dredging our boundary rivers - and if necessary importing water - to make us a real island.
Then they're going to rename us The Isle of White.

Alledegly.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/16/2006 05:41:41 PM

Thieves steal from Christian Centre

THIEVES have stolen money destined for breast cancer and homeless charities from a Christian bookshop in Swanage.The burglary happened some time between closing time on Saturday November 4, and Monday morning at the Swanage Christian Centre on Commercial Road.A portable safe was taken from the upstairs bookshop, containing money destined for various good causes. It has been heart-breaking for staff.If you have any information, call the Police on 01202 222222."

NEW SUBJECT

If you want to raise a new topic, post your comment in this section — just click first on Comments (bottom right), then on Post a comment (bottom left of the next window), and a new heading will soon be set up, allowing others to see and add their own comments. It seems it's sometimes easier to click on 'Post anonymously' than to open an account in your name - you can always add your name to your message. We try to keep posts civilized.

Occupancy Flat?

Second home/flat owners are blamed for many of the problems faced by some Swanage folk. It seems to me a great pity that many of these absentee landlords are precluded from letting their accommodation to holiday makers because of strict terms outlawing sub letting in their leases. Should such clauses be outlawed?

Mowlem art sale: Sat 11th Nov

mowlem11+
Originally uploaded by m.hadley.

On the eleventh of November, eleven+ Purbeck artists are bringing something bright and new to The Mowlem on Swanage seafront. Purbeck has a long history of art, craft and design, and the eleven+ event brings a selection of affordable art to the centre of Swanage. This exciting one-day fair includes food and refreshments, children’s activities and a fantastic sea view. Open from 11.30am to 8.30pm, including wine and music in the evening.

As the areas newest art fair, eleven+ includes work from Sarah Wootton, Tony Viney, Peter Boyce Tomkins, Antonia Phillips, Aline Johnson, Richard Jeffery, Heather Gibbons, Nina Camplin, Chris Burke, Carlotta Barrow, Mary Baker and Paul Angel.

if, like us, you want to see the mowlem in regular use as an art venue, please come along and support this event!

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Posted by Paul Angel to swanage view at 11/01/2006 10:35:38 PM

Peerages

At 9:42 PM, Anonymous said...

so 5 ministers probed in cash for honours row, ummmm did I get that from tory central office? no I dont think so comments please on a postage stamp!


At 8:55 PM, Anonymous said...

Dear Mr Postman
if you decide to post the above comment could you post this on the same thread.

Police widen the loans for peerages investigation to include all parties.
By all I assume they mean Con, Lib, Lab.

Cheers.

Questions

The Times Business Section have polled their Power 100 panel of City businessmen to ask what UK PLC really thinks about some important questions of our time. A few snippets...

Should the Government use taxes to fight the threat of climate change?
81% YES, 19% No

Should the government reconsider membership of the Euro?
17% YES, 81% NO

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/09/2006 09:11:58 PM

Celebrations

Conservatives send Vaisakhi, Passover and Easter messages

As the holidays begin with their extra significance for practising Christians, Jews and Sikhs, Francis Maude, Chairman of the Conservative Party, has sent a message to the country.

He expressed his "good wishes and that of the Conservative Party for peaceful and happy celebrations to all of our citizens who are celebrating the great festivals of Easter, Pesach and Vaisakhi."

That does come from the consevative cental office.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/09/2006 09:06:50 PM

Keeping Swanage Afloat?

Bob Green asks in this weeks Advertiser "why there is no marina or even a call for it in Swanage"?

PLANNING BIAS ?

The computerised picture of the new block of flats, to be known as ‘Gannett’s Park’ (see Advertiser page 23 Corben & Son) are quite striking in their design, being totally different from any of the surrounding properties, yet in a very conspicuous location.

Which begs the question, why there has been such bias against the designs put forward for the Pierhead, a much less prominent location, but agreeably more important ? Gannetts Park will be completed during the time the planners are nit picking over what most thought to be an excellent design for the Pierhead.

RobO

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 11/03/2006 02:00:43 PM

11/11: Mowlem art sale

art @ the mowlem

On the eleventh of November, eleven+ Purbeck artists are bringing something bright and new to The Mowlem on Swanage seafront. Purbeck has a long history of art, craft and design, and the eleven+ event brings a selection of affordable art to the centre of Swanage. This exciting one-day fair includes food and refreshments, children’s activities and a fantastic sea view. Open from 11.30am to 8.30pm, including wine and music in the evening.

As the areas newest art fair, eleven+ includes work from Sarah Wootton, Tony Viney, Peter Boyce Tomkins, Antonia Phillips, Aline Johnson, Richard Jeffery, Heather Gibbons, Nina Camplin, Chris Burke, Carlotta Barrow, Mary Baker and Paul Angel.

if, like us, you want to see the mowlem in regular use as an art venue, please come along and support this event!

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Posted by Paul Angel to swanage view at 11/01/2006 10:35:38 PM

Speed cameras

At 6:06 PM, Anonymous said...

Figures are, I understand, available on how much it costs to maintain speed cameras in Dorset and how much revenue each one produces. These cameras and the mobile ones are run by a so-called partnership quango. The other day when I was driving north and pulling out on to the main road near the pub at Almber on the A30 there was one of this safety partnership's vans to my left, quite effectively blocking my view of traffic coming from the Bere Regis direction, at a time of poor visibility, at what is a difficult junction at the best of times. Safety? Surely not. Profit-driven taxing quango, yes.

Added value?

have you heard that this labour govt is to employ inspectors to visit peoples houses to see if they have increased the value of their homes by adding patios conservatories and even double glazing big fines if you do not alow access

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 10/25/2006 09:29:58 PM

Money pits?

Have you heard that the gov't are looking for towns to volunteer to store radioactive waste.
With all the quarries around here, aren't we the perfect choice?
With it come Millions in funding.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 10/25/2006 04:46:36 PM

H F in Swanage

Anon asks: I am wanting to identify the location of the (Christian) Holiday Fellowship that once existed in Swanage. Can you help with location, date of closing, etc?

Swanage future: the Community Partnership

2/11/06 Notice of Postponement – 7th November 2006

The Town Partnership meeting scheduled for 7th November 2006 has been postponed.
A meeting will now be rescheduled as soon as the “Draft” MCTi Plan is complete. You can view the latest position on line at http://swanagemcti.tripod.com


UPDATE 31 Oct. The expected Report (now evidently called the Draft Plan) has been delayed and will NOT be presented at the 7 November meeting as expected and discussed below. I don't know the reasons for this.

Those who were involved with consultation for the Swanage Town & Community Partnership (or are interested in the future of the area) may be interested in attending a public meeting at 10.00 am on Tuesday 7th November at the Town Hall, Swanage. The purpose of the meeting is to receive the (long awaited) report of what is now called the MCTI (Market and Coastal Towns Initiative) report, which should — I understand — summarise all the findings of the consultation process and subsequent activity. This information will then form part of the consultation process of the Local Development Plan (the so-called 'core strategy' document) now out for review (consultation closes 10 November). More on the first 'draft' report of the Partnership at http://www.swanagecommunityplan.blogspot.com/

Swanage One-way

Because of the number of complaints received Church Hill won't be altered.

The Council are now considering reversing the High Street from Court Hill to the Library.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 10/20/2006 07:22:56 PM

Swanage Bay Sails?

Anon asks: Has anyone heard the rumours that the Swanage Bay view complex is up for sale?

Toy Town?

Anon said:


Has anyone else noticed a strange phenomona.I got round Swanage at over 10 mph today.It was a joy.As that's so rare why not give the town a 10mph speed limit?

Access for all

At 4:27 PM, Steve Darrington said...
Further to my request to attend a council meeting in my wheelchair, may I thank Swanage Town Council for arranging the next meeting where I can get to it. It is also an opportunity for anybody else who has limited mobility and can't get up those Town Hall steps, to see what a meeting is like!SWANAGE TOWN COUNCILThe nextCOUNCIL MEETINGwill be held at theSWANAGE BAY VIEW HOLIDAY PARK, PANORAMA ROAD onMONDAY30th October 2006at7.15 p.m.The Meeting will be preceded by PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIMEwhich will commenceat7.00 p.m.

Purbeck Film Festival

I've just been reading the pamphlet for the Purbeck Film Festival and yet again they seem to have an excellent range of films in an excellent array of venues.

In Swanage they are using the Catholic Hall, the Look Out and California Barn, then there's Studland Village Hall, Langton, Worth etc.

What about the Mowlem?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 10/08/2006 12:57:37 PM

Tory trauma?

Listening to David Blair's speech I found myself rather confused.
Not only had I used the wrong - politically correct - last name - I think the clone has adopted the last name of Cameron.
He sounded like he loves people on benefits, people from foreign lands who come here to do the jobs we're too lazy to do, and he's going to increase the spending on the NHS even further.
I'm not saying that I beleive him, but what are all the rusty old Tories going to do?

As an aside, much of the Tory media is making something out of Labour being a bunch of Scots.
Cameron - that's a good old english name - isn't it?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 10/05/2006 10:42:18 PM

Ice rink for next summer?

From Echo online

Get skates on to support rink at the carnival
By Andy Davey

SPONSORS will need to get their skates on if they want to help a Purbeck carnival bring an artificial ice rink to Swanage next summer.Swanage Regatta and Carnival has already raised £1,355 for the rink, which is covered in a kind of plastic ice that will not melt in the July heat.But sponsors have until November 30 to help the group reach its target of £5,700 so it can hire the 35ft square temporary rink for carnival week.
To find out more or to make a donation telephone Mrs Mason on 07751 559093.

Essex Pearl?

At 1:00 PM, Anonymous said...
Which way should Swanage go? This question appears on Swanageview from time to time. Here is a little addition.I was in Essex recently and visited Clacton-on-Sea and Frinton-on-Sea to see what they are like. They are close together geographically but very different. Which would you like Swanage to be like? Clacton has two theatres, numerous amusement arcades and other places of entertainment. It is also very run down and seedy and has a general air of poverty. There are boarded up windows in commercial premises on the seafront and a lot of run down buildings generally. By contrast Frinton allows no commercial development on the sea front. There are no arcades. It has only one pub and the council is resisting an application to open its first takeaway food outlet. Entertainment appears to be limited to a quiet evening in the war memorial club's members bar. However, it looks very prosperous compared to its neighbour. There are no empty shops in the high street and no sign of tourist tourist tat either. The place looks wealthy. The general impression I formed was that a town with lots of tourism facilies that should be "vibrant" is dead on its feet but one where the height of excitement is a mug of ovaltine is doing OK. My conclusion was that the less a town does to entertain its visitors the more money the town as a whole makes. Can the "modernising" tendency explain this.

Crap circles

I see that on the grass verge at the top of Taunton Road someone has sprayed white circles where owners have let their dog/s mess. Wonder if this will have any effect on those owners who couldn't care less. At least it gives people a chance to see what they might be treading in.

No loos is bad news

Good to see Swanage with so many people about. But the toilets on the stone quay were closed. More than one visitor was heard to say: "Last time I come here."
Come on Town Council! Get your act together!

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Posted by Man about town to swanage view at 10/01/2006 01:53:30 PM

Cor! Strategy!

Read it here:
http://www.purbeck.gov.uk/pdf/06-09-25%20Core.Strategy.Preferred.Options.Consultation%20doc2.pdf
More details at PDC website:
http://www.purbeck.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=8705

Need funding?

Need funding for a special project?

I have been approached by the Scarman Trust, who have funds available for projects that will enhance the community. These are promoted under the banner of "Community Champions".

There are a number of criteria for eligibility, but key factors are that the amount needed must be no more than £2000 and that it can't be to support the work of an existing group, or to continue existing activities.

So if you have a new idea that could benefit our community, and you think you may qualify, please get in touch and I'll provide more details. Tel: 01929 427277 or mail@mikehadley.net

Council meeting 25 Sept

Among other things:

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME:

- Safe bathing: question asked about extending the safe bathing zone: answer - is being discussed with PDC. Also reviewing the 5 knot marker buoys, both for uniformity and position
- Institute Road: can someone do something about the damaged pavements? DCC Councillor Hiett was present and agreed to pursue. Discussion ensued about enforcement of loading bay, stopping people parking on pavements; suggestion made that Loading Bay should be marked in yellow paint, and say Trade Vehicles Only.
- Jurassic Coast signs: temporary metal signs didn't get placed this summer; stone ones in preparation
- Bike racks on Quay: have been put in wrong place

IMPORTANT

- Local Development Plan: this PDC document comes out on 29 September,for publlic consultation until 10 November, will determine strategy for all of us for next 20 YEARS. Can be viewed at PDC offices, in libraries and on PDC website (from 29/9).

OTHER ITEMS

- Britain in bloom: Swanage won a Silver Award in the RHS Britain in Bloom contest, in the Coastal Resorts category; Durlston Country Park won a Conservation and Environment Award for its work

- Funding opportunity: A charity (the Scarman Trust) has some funds available for community projects. Please contact Mike Hadley (427277 or mail@mikehadley) or the Town Clerk for more details.

God retires to Swanage

According to the recent Radio 4 play, Angelophany, God has retired to a bungalow in Swanage.....famous for its awad-winning beaches, etc

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio/noscript.shtml?
/radio/aod/radio4_aod.shtml?radio4/afternoonplay_fri

First Jonathan Ross, now Him. Who next?

NEW SUBJECT

If you want to raise a new topic, post your comment in this section — just click first on Comments (bottom right), then on Post a comment (bottom left of the next window), and a new heading will soon be set up, allowing others to see and add their own comments. It seems it's sometimes easier to click on 'Post anonymously' than to open an account in your name - you can always add your name to your message. We try to keep posts civilized.

Mmm

Sunday morning in Swanage - cars full of unsmiling young men who look like they're on a mission, drivers exchanging information with each other through their open windows (not on mobiles). They don't look like they're wondering which church to go to!
I do hope all is well.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/24/2006 12:38:22 PM

Business in Swanage

(from Swanage Advertiser, September 21, page 4)

INVITATION TO AN OPEN FORUM MEETING
from Paul Brown, Chairman of the Swanage & District Chamber of Trade at the
SWANAGE CONSERVATIVE CLUB on WEDNESDAY 27th SEPTEMBER at 7.30pm

What do you need to improve the future of your business? What are the Plans? What are the opportunities?
All local businesses welcome

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/23/2006 08:10:49 PM

Swallows ahoy

KEEP YOUR HEAD DOWN OR YOU MAY BE SWOLLOWED

At about noon today, Saturday 23rd September, I took some garden rubbish to the Panorama Recycle Centre and had to stop and watch the swallows heading south at low level, skimming low of the hedges taking in their last flies. I counted 10 to 15 a minute heading towards the sun !

RobO

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/23/2006 01:20:59 PM

Town Council

anything happen at the STC meeting last night?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/21/2006 10:43:37 AM

Volunteer Drivers

Anonymous asks: My neighbour is in a wheelchair and is unable to travel by bus to Wareham to link up with the train on the rare occasions she needs to do so. Taxi fare is £19 one way. We don't dispute the right for taxi drivers to make a living, but she is on benefit and gets no extra financial help.Are there any Swanage voluntary organisations or drivers who might assist for a little less money?

Gourmet Swanage?

The Which? Good Food Guide 2007 is published today. Congratulations to the Cauldron Bistro on the hard work gone into achieving the well deserved accolade “also recommended” (i.e. not quite getting 1 out of 10). Shell Bay in Studland was another also ran. Locally, Poole boasts a restaurant with a score of 3/10, as does Christchurch, and Bournemouth has a 4/10. Looking to our coastal competitors Lymington and Lyme Regis get a 2/10; West Bay and Looe 3/10; St Mawes has a 3/10, and St Ives has 3 and 4/10 restaurants. Padstow has two 2’s, a 5, and a 6/10.

All about Swanage

I think I was bored, but has anyone seen this:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/dorset/content/articles/2005/06/16/coast05walks_start_walk.shtml

I think it's pretty good

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/17/2006 09:23:05 PM

More fuel you

Article in today's - 17-9 - Observer, whoops, that could get a few backs up.
Sorry, back to the article.Sugar Cane and Palm Trees could be the answer to global warming.

A friend of mine commented; 'why can't these idiots find something that is a total pest that can save the world. Brambles, tonnes of them around'.
Stinging nettles, I replied.
Any other suggestions?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/17/2006 06:08:44 PM

Padstow Lifeboat

If we get a new lifeboat station in Swanage I hope it looks as good as the one shortly to open in Padstow.

Pavements blocked

The centre of Swanage is plagued with advertising boards blocking the pavements. People have to step into the street to avoid them. Shop and restaurant owners are not using common sense.
May I suggest an amount of clear pavement is maintained at all times? About the width of a double-buggy perhaps?

--
Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/14/2006 04:47:29 PM

Obesity?

There's loads these days about how obese the population is and how it is a major health problem....and I was thinking about that sitting waiting in Poole hospital the other day.
And counting, roughly, how many of the staff wandering - it seemed to me they appeared to be going nowhere in no great rush - around the building were fattish, fat, very fat, grossly fat and so on.
And thinking. If obesity is such a health problem why doesn't the health service start with some of its staff?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/14/2006 03:13:29 PM

Mushrooms

Is anyone interested in exchanging information on local edible fungi finds? I just love to cook with wild mushrooms, but find the time involved in locating them less fun than the dog does. I'll start you off with honey fungus (pictured) picked at King's Wood near Rempstone 14/9/06.

Residents' car park

Recently got harangued by a motorist as they drove through the "no entry" signs at the southern end of the residents car park so that they could could get into the other car park, from other persons around at the time it seems like a very regular occurrence.
Thinks, is this a money spinner for the council, camera, £30 ticket, you know the kind of stuff; or will pedestrians such as myself run the risk of being knocked down as all the cars dart through regardless.

--
Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 9/11/2006 10:49:47 PM

Pier pressure

I hear someone smashed all the glass in the shelter at the end of the Pier. If anyone reading this has any ideas who might be responsible, do please tell the police.

Disabled access

Swanage Access Guide

I am compiling information for a printed Access Guide to help disabled people in Swanage, both resident and visitors, if anybody would like to contribute information. The Guide will initially cover the town centre and the routes in and out, businesses that offer disabled access or assistance, and those that visit or deliver. There will also be a map showing drop crossing points and how to get around in a wheelchair or on a travel scooter that can’t climb kerbs.

I’ve come across a snag - Ordnance Survey wants up to £1,500 for permission to use a map of the town in the guide. Anybody got experience of getting round this, or ideas for raising the money?

Ideas or suggestions to s.darrington@btopenworld.com

Thank you.

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Posted by Steve Darrington to swanage view at 8/28/2006 10:52:05 AM

Mowlem metamorphosis

Starting thread again as previous attempt to summarise comments seem to have caused more problems than it solved....

The square

is it true that at mondays councill meeting one councillor actually stood up and BLAMED the motorbike fraternity for leaking oil in the square and thats what makes it look a mess, and not the chip shops or the councill inability to clean it regularly?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 8/22/2006 01:41:36 AM

Swanage reconnected

Duncan said:
What some debaters on this blog seem to be missing is the prospect (still a few years off) of the reconnection of the railway.This will enable high spenders to come down for a day in mid November, to eat at the new expensive restaurant, buy the higher value goods in the new upmarket shops and stay overnight in the boutique hotels. No I'm not being sarcastic. As roads will inevitably be priced to discourage driving and rail fairs are high it stands to reason that the users of the new service to the jurassic coast will have money. we need Swanage to be ready. Thats why there MUST be change here and it needs to start soon. Those who advocate Swanage staying as it is can't have realised that change is inevitable. Surely those who have been here for more then ten years can't have missed all the changes in that time, let alone the 40 years I've had. Swanage is lovely. The only sensible debate is how we plan and manage the evolution of this town to retain the best of it.Duncan

Mowlem

Not sure if this will help or not, but I've resurrected the 'Mowlem metamorphosis' thread and emrged with 'Mowlem again, again' to try to keep all comments together.
(The Postman)

Posted by Mr. Paul Angel

Everyone (including me) has had a moan about the state of the Mowlem, especially the disgusting mock-victorian bars, so i decided to have a moan to Hall & Woodhouse, who share responsibility with the trustees (as far as I know). Here was their very positive reply:
"PaulGood news!There is a major internal and external upgrade planned for the Mowlem in 2007. I couldn't agree more that it is currently not doing itself justice.Thanks for your feedback.RegardsNick SellickArea Manager".
Now I think that's great, and even better if they consult local people about the new look they could go for. So I thought we could have a conversation here!My opinion: Go for a clean contemporary look with the bar that sticks out clad in oak, the signs modern and maybe backlit, the glass should be cleaned up and left as glass, the lower area where you can sit outside should have some decent benches and lighting, the interior should be white and have local art in it in a changing display, and they should reflect the modern building, the coastal location and the local art scene...What does anybody else think - BE POSITIVE!

posted by nick storer @ 5:47 PM 12 comments
12 Comments:

At 6:09 PM, nick storer said...

I believe it is very hard for an organisation to change, especially when they need to work with a board of trustees. Presumably they will keep the same demoralised management. Solution, simply put the bar and restaurant separately out to tender. Award the franchise to the best, (not necessarily the highest bidder).
Also clad the outside pillars which support the restaurant above, perhaps with the oak. Put in disabled loos. Make the tunnel area a food court cum gallery. Laminate a colour onto all the glass, I would favour metalic green. Get the cinema manager to advertise his program in the likes of the Guardian (if the REX can be bothered for goodness sake so should the Mowlem). Get rid of the chavs and hoodies that hang around outside and disrupt the films inside. The restaurant bar needs most urgent attention.

At 6:19 PM, nick storer said...

soz but two more points:
1) Sort out the website, you can't even get this weeks film details...
2) Other Towns had equally challenging theatre buildings which they can now celebrate. Think of the makeovers at the Lighthouse in Poole and the de La Warre Pavilion in Bexhill.

At 8:04 PM, The Postman said...

Would love to be positive. But the only way for fresh thinking is to get new people looking at it. Presumably the present people think what they have and do is wonderful -- so why would they change?

At 9:00 PM, Steve Darrington said...

"The man who thinks he can, and the man who thinks he can't, are both right"

To presume that the people running the Mowlem think what they do is wonderful and therefore would never consider change, is to deny them the benefit of your vision!

Why not use this site to make suggestions? I'm sure that they are read by the relevant people at the very least.

At 2:42 PM, Anonymous said...

The consensus is that they do a very good job but unfortunately its the wrong job.

At 10:18 AM, Paul Angel said...

Hall & Woodhouse have just signed a new lease on the restaurant and Bars apparantly, so there won't be a change of franchise there. The fact that I sent a rather grumpy email about the state of the place and that they replied does strike me as positive, though!
The management of the Mowlem theatre does need a kick up the bum, though... I wonder if the problem is that they make enough money to tick over from the rents and leases on shops and bars, so no real effort to attract theatre and cinema goers. They need a proper plan in place (and publicly in place) to improve the quality of the cinema and theatre experience and the nonexistant PR. At the moment it feels like a visit to a badly run village hall! My father rescued and ran the Tivoli in Wimborne for 10 years, so I speak with some experience of how things can be done well!

Don't know how you discourage the chavs - play classical music in tyhe foyers and the chav-hut outside?

At 8:53 PM, Anonymous said...

Thinking of the makeovers at Pool and Bexhill, where did the money come from? Where does the money come from that funds the work at the Mowlem and why are they not awarded huge grants like the others? Why is there no financial support from the town council for a facility as important as a theatre? When the water company offered to turn the plant compound of their building site (where the mock amphitheatre now stands) into a leisure centre, why was that blocked? Who owns the leisure centre that is conveniently located near the caravan park? And who owns the caravan park? Who decides what the money is spent on, regardless of where it comes from? How much does it cost to run a public building? What can be done to increase income, so that the suggested improvements can happen? Is there anyone who can see the value of investing in the arts so that the vital facelift can be done? Was it a mistake to knock down the Victorian building in the first place? Until the chavs are kicked into touch, no-one will want to put anything worth having in a public place. Presumably those with all the bright ideas have no clue about any of the above. Put your hand in your pocket and do something useful with it. Lobby funding bodies to support local arts. Ideas and suggestions are worthless without hard bankable cash. Nothing happens without hard bankable cash. There are some very generous people in Swanage but the kind of work that it really needs has many more noughts after it than those generous people are able to afford.

At 10:03 PM, Cheesemeister said...

I realise this could be dangereous but I am going to stick my neck out and tell you that I am the Chief Theatre Technician at the Mowlem. I absolutely love my job and it pays my bills. I do not have other jobs I can take at the drop of a hat so bear that in mind when you formulate your questions. I will not sully my name with replies to flames, belligerence or ill-considered comments. I will treat you exactly as I would if I met you in person. I don't bite (often) and if you see me in the bar be nice to me, engage me in conversation and intelligent discussion, or just tell me a decent joke. Drinks are always welcome.

I like some of your ideas and I agree with some comments. Personally, I would like to have some architectural lighting in the foyer area when that gets to the top of the list. I have some very creative ideas on how to spend lots of money. That we don't have.

To Paul Angel. You obviously have seen some great ideas from conception to fruition. I have worked at the Tivoli myself when I took a tour there; it is a fabulous theatre front of house and there have been some admirable technical improvements too. Please share your ideas! Examples of real ideas that have worked, or even failed, are worth ten times the weight of off the cuff remarks.

I agree with all the remarks about the hoodies and chavs. They are the bane of my life and even more so of the life of Brian. He's not the Messiah, he's the theatre's Administrator (we do not have a manager, but I'll save that explanation for some other time).

As regards the facelift, my personal taste in architecture does not accommodate buildings typical of the 1960's style. I might add that the internal design is also dreadful and I do not believe it was designed by someone who had ever even been to a theatre let alone tried to put on a show: a loading bay on the first floor? What on earth were they thinking? Did any of you see us doing the get-in or get-out when "Dead Easy" was on? However, a rebuild that rectifies the biggest gaffs in theatre architecture will cost millions and we have to improve what we have before anyone will see the theatre as worthy of such huge investment.

Before you give me earache about the bar or the foyer, remember that as the Chief Technician, my area of influence is mainly the technical aspects of the theatre. I can sympathise till we all end up in a big sloppy group hug but frankly my time is already overstretched with maintaining and improving the technical aspects of the theatre to a standard I would be proud of.

One of the most important lessons I learned when changing careers from IT to professional theatre was being able to work with what you've got and that imperfect punctuality is always preferred in this business to perfect lateness. There isn't a theatre technician in the world who is happy with the facilities available. At least, not one with whom I wish to be associated. Furthermore, lateness of delivery in both live and recorded entertainment is measured in minutes, seconds and fractions of a second, not months, days and hours as it is in IT.

Well that's my opener. I'll come back when time allows.

At 1:14 PM, Anonymous said...

Someone asked about funding. There is a very simple reason why the Mowlem does not get lottery or other public funding. A basic condition of public funding is that the people running the organisations it goes to must be accountable. The Mowlem trustees are not accountable and have absolutely no intention of making themselves accountable. They would rather be kings in a threadbare castle than have to stand for election. Its quite obvious they would rather let it fall into the sea then let the people of Swanage decide how our main cultural asset is run.

At 7:40 PM, Anonymous said...

Hard to be positive. We wanted to plan an evening out for a couple of families, so to be sure of getting seats we tried to book tickets, to be told 'we don't sell tickets in advance'. What sort of blinkered moronic organisation is that?! Certainly doesn't seem like one that actually wants to sell tickets and make money out of running any sort of business. And why will they sell theatre tickets in advance but not film tickets? Time for the trustees to hand over to people with half a commercial brain.

At 2:48 AM, Cheesemeister said...

We are not allowed to. We are also obliged to open the box office 45 minutes before a film. No earlier. No later. If there are two customers or more, we are obliged to show the film. If there is only one customer we are obliged to refund the customer and tell them to come back another time. There are mystery customers, though they don't all make good spies and some are recognisable. These obligations are the terms of our contract. If we break the terms of our contract, they stop supplying films and reserve the right not to supply films already arranged.
With theatre, the contact is with the production company, which is usually far less restrictive than commercial film. Why is this do you wonder? It's all about protection of revenue and branding. Throughout the entire supply chain there is far more money to be made per seat from a big multiplex with their computerised automated projectors requiring one projectionist for many films than at a small theatre that runs on two projectors of pre-war design (but post-war manufacture) requiring full-time attendance for the entire film.

At 7:42 AM, Anonymous said...

Well done Cheesemeister! For far too long the workings of the Mowlem have been shrouded in mystery. Your explanations are most welcome. Have you considered going to a meeting of Swanage's finest, STRATA? Social at the Quarr Gallery this Wednesday 16 August.

posted by The Postman @ 12:24 PM 18 comments
18 Comments:

At 12:47 PM, Anonymous said...

If attending the STRATA social pleaes remember to bring a bottle.

At 6:00 PM, Anonymous said...

STRATA?

At 11:36 PM, Cheesemeister said...

Thank you for the invitation. It sounds most intriguing and I accept.

At 5:27 PM, Cheesemeister said...

Just to revisit the funding issue. The Mowlem trustees are answerable to the Charities Commission are they not? I honestly don't know. To whom were the funds made available at other charity-run theatres? If they are an unincorporated body (I believe that's the term used) then they must have trustees whose function has some parallels with that of company directors.
If the trustees are the ones made responsible for ensuring allowances from public funds are correctly allocated (and in a charity, who else could it be), to whom are those trustees accountable. How do other charities make themselves accountable?
It doesn't help move the discussion forward to make criticisms about accountability without being clear on whom is, or should be, accountable to whom and by what mechanism.
How is this accountablility enforced? In the affairs of accountability for public funds, there probably exists a law or two. Does someone knowledgable in such matters read this blog or do the readers know someone who can set the record straight? Some real examples of other organisations would be of benefit, to show how accountibility works in the real world outside of the statute books.
Through informed discussion and debate we seek to view the world through someone else's eyes; and hence enlightenment.

At 6:16 PM, Anonymous said...

Go to www.charity-commission.gov.uk and find your way to the Mowlem's entry. You will find that its objects are defined as:

LIBRARY AND READING ROOM FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE INHABITANTS OF SWANAGE AND IN PARTICULAR FOR USE FOR MEETINGS, LECTURES AND CLASSES OR FOR OTHER FORMS OF RECREATION AND LEISURE TIME OCCUPATION WITH THE OBJECT OF PROVIDING FURTHER EDUCATION AND IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS OF LIFE FOR THE SAID INHABITANTS.

This is the job they do, but as has been pointed out its the wrong job when what we need is an art centre. All they have to provide is meeting room. That is all that they are responsible to the charity commission for. No more. So long as the room is available they can do as they like with the rest of the building and are not accountable to anyone.

At 7:05 PM, Anonymous said...

How many books are there in the library? Where's the reading room? And when can you use it?

At 10:38 PM, Cheesemeister said...

There is no library that I am aware of and there is no reading room named as such. The nearest I can see to a reading room would be the Community Room, which is available for booking via the box office.

To spell out the meaning that is being inferred from the information with regards to funding:
o The trustees of the Mowlem are accountable to the Charity Commission for providing a library and a reading room with emphasis on meetings and such.
o The theatre (indeed everything but the Communuity Room) is not explicitly part of the charity's objects and therefore the Charity Commission has no say in the use of those spaces.
o This being the case, no-one has legal recourse for controlling how public funds are spent on the theatre et cetera and thus public funds can not be made available for them.

Please highlight any mistakes in the above.

The use of the term "Arts Centre" is open to interpretation and the general feeling within this part of the community is that the interpretation taken lacks conviction, to put it mildly.
Provision of a theatre and cinema, perhaps even the bar, could have been covered by the rather vague phrase "or for other forms of recreation and leisure time occupation with the object of providing further education and improving the conditions of life for the said inhabitants", except that none of those spaces are explicitly named so fall outside the charity's object. I am guessing that this phrase prompted adoption of the name "arts centre". Again, the feeling here is that the object is too vague, allows interpretation that has proven impossible to rebut and could be said to be a barrier to receiving funding from public monies.
Is that latitude of interpretation really what makes funding bodies refuse funding?
My argument would be that a theatre and a cinema do fulfil that part of the object but I can see how, in noting that the "reading room" is the only space explicitly named, public bodies would argue that those other spaces do not qualify for funding.

Hmm. A knotty problem indeed.

Are charities allowed to change their object?

I'm posting this now for people to comment further. In the meantime I shall do some research to see what the Charity Commission has to say on the matter of changing a charity's objects. Unless someone else already knows and can give us a digest.

At 11:04 PM, Anonymous said...

Changing a charity's objects depends, of course, on the trustees wanting a change. One might well conclude from the fact that this has not been done, that the trustees here would rather not bother.

It is instructive to read the material of other art centres, for example Bridport and contrast them with the local situation. They do funny things like have members who elect their trustees and have a limit on how long they can serve. Suggest that to Mr Bale and see what the reaction is. Ask him why we can't all join the Mowlem and elect the trustees. Its a simple enough expectation to have for an organisation wanting public funding.

At 11:12 PM, Anonymous said...

You could also ask our district and county councillors why Bridport Art Centre receives £50,000 of local authority funding and the Mowlem gets zilch.

At 11:18 PM, Anonymous said...

The Mowlem trustees, according to the information furnished by the charity commission are:
MR P W HUNTSMAN
MR ROY SMITH
MR DAVID BALE BSC
MRS JANICE JUNE POND
MR JOHN GORDON LAZENBURY
MRS LINDA MARY BURGESS
MR PAUL BRIAN GROVER
MR ROGER WILLIAM WILCOX
MRS SUZANNE HAW
MRS GLORIA MARSH

This may not be up to date of course. There is a recent list on a notice board in the Mowlem. Perhaps some of them could tell us how they see their role in the cultural life of the town.

At 1:08 AM, Cheesemeister said...

Here's what the Charities Commission has to say on amending a governing document, within which are the charity's objects.
In summary, the power and conditions for making amendments to a governing document are set out in said document. When they are not, the charity must request permission from the Charities Commission.
How does one inspect a charity's governing document?
Charities must also consider if another charity in the vicinity already has the same objects. I recall someone else telling us, perhaps on a different post, that the Tithe Barn Museum has "arts centre" amongst their objects. I haven't seen what they do but I think it ought to be possible for the Mowlem to function as an arts centre without duplicating the efforts of the Tithe Barn. Could the duplication of "arts centre" be the main argument put forward for not changing the Mowlem's object? I think I already know some opinions on that. Is that also the majority view here?
Openness seems to be what this part of the community want, and democracy. The example of Bridport shows what openness and democracy can achieve. How does one force a change toward openness and democracy on anyone? On any group of people? Is "force" the most effective manner? Wherein lies the leverage you seek? I don't think I have answers to those questions and it is too late in the night for me to start formulating any theories.
Anonymous highlighted the success of the model used in Bridport, which also happens to appeal to my own firm belief in the democratic process. I could, as Anonymous said, "Suggest that to Mr Bale and see what the reaction is. Ask him why we can't all join the Mowlem and elect the trustees." Anonymous clearly already knows the outcome. So what will that approach achieve? Anonymous must already know the answer to that too. So why suggest that, Anonymous? Did it move us forward at all? No it did not. If this is just going to be a forum for unhelpful sneering remarks, why should I bother to take the time with you?
Let us put an end to such nonsense. I understand that David's manner may rub you up the wrong way. That is a common thread shown here. That's just life. Deal with it, put it aside, and share more of your knowledge and intellect, for they are of far greater value to the debate.

At 10:07 AM, Anonymous said...

Copies of governing documents can be obtained from the charity commission, although they may charge for this.

To the best of my knowledge the present form of organisation was devised at the time when local government reorganisation was in the air and there was a panic about assets in Swanage coming under the control of a district council whose offices were in Wareham, hence, for example the fact that Swanage car parks are owned by the town council. The architect of this piece of municipal paranoia was David Bale's father which goes some way to explaining David's "my bat, my ball" approach and the frustration this causes. Ironically of course a PDC councillor is a trustee.

At 10:09 AM, Anonymous said...

Someone said "You could also ask our district and county councillors why Bridport Art Centre receives £50,000 of local authority funding and the Mowlem gets zilch. " Presumably the Bridport Art Centre is a public institution accountable for its activities -- whereas the Mowlem does what it likes regardless of public opinion and need. When or if it makes itself more accountable and responsive to the public, then it might deserve public money.

At 12:56 PM, Cheesemeister said...

I find that news very interesting. If Mr Bale senior was a trustee too, criticism of the way things are run would strike a sensitive nerve. This would indicate that browbeating can only serve to put more bricks in the wall. Or, like a non-Newtonian fluid: the harder you strike, the more solid it becomes.
A non-Newtonian fluid is still a fluid.
Many of the trustees have professional backgrounds such as engineering, accountancy, law and medicine. How best to approach professional thinking people? It looks as though most here know what results from barbaric sabre rattling. I am an engineer myself, and what works for me is someone who is prepared to find common understanding by engaging my intellect. What approaches have been tried so far, with what degree of success, and what others remain to be tried?

At 4:30 PM, Anonymous said...

So what or who is STRATA?

At 5:07 PM, Keith Roker said...

Strata is a recently formed organisation which aims to promote and develop the arts in Swanage and bring funding for the arts into the town. It is still at a formative stage and welcomes mew members who would like to get involved in this.

Meetings are held at 7.30pm on the first wednesday of each month at Quarr gallery, 17 High Street. More information is available there, for example about projects we would like to develop. The initial membership was concentrated on the visual arts but we would like to broaden this. If anyone would like to be on the email circulation list they can let me have their address at the gallery or post it here and I will add them.

At 2:45 PM, The Postman said...

Well, well..from the Echo online today 17 August:

Curtain up for refit
By Eric Randolph

THE ageing Mowlem Theatre is finally getting the six-figure makeover long-awaited by residents in Swanage.

Owners and trustees are staying tight-lipped about the details, but have confirmed it will be a complete overhaul for the building's 40th anniversary, which could start as early as January.

Nick Sellick, area manager of Hall and Woodhouse, which runs the complex's bars and restaurant, said: "It will be a major refurbishment internally, both upstairs and downstairs. There will be a new entrance and the exterior will be redecorated."

Detailed plans are due to appear in September. Owners say they are "mulling over two or three different ideas."
continued...

At 2:46 PM, Anonymous said...

Let's hope a makeover looks at function and attitude not just cosmetics...


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Mowlem Metamorphosis?

Posted by Mr. Paul Angel

Everyone (including me) has had a moan about the state of the Mowlem, especially the disgusting mock-victorian bars, so i decided to have a moan to Hall & Woodhouse, who share responsibility with the trustees (as far as I know). Here was their very positive reply:
"PaulGood news!There is a major internal and external upgrade planned for the Mowlem in 2007. I couldn't agree more that it is currently not doing itself justice.Thanks for your feedback.RegardsNick SellickArea Manager".
Now I think that's great, and even better if they consult local people about the new look they could go for. So I thought we could have a conversation here!My opinion: Go for a clean contemporary look with the bar that sticks out clad in oak, the signs modern and maybe backlit, the glass should be cleaned up and left as glass, the lower area where you can sit outside should have some decent benches and lighting, the interior should be white and have local art in it in a changing display, and they should reflect the modern building, the coastal location and the local art scene...What does anybody else think - BE POSITIVE!

posted by nick storer @ 5:47 PM 12 comments
12 Comments:

At 6:09 PM, nick storer said...

I believe it is very hard for an organisation to change, especially when they need to work with a board of trustees. Presumably they will keep the same demoralised management. Solution, simply put the bar and restaurant separately out to tender. Award the franchise to the best, (not necessarily the highest bidder).
Also clad the outside pillars which support the restaurant above, perhaps with the oak. Put in disabled loos. Make the tunnel area a food court cum gallery. Laminate a colour onto all the glass, I would favour metalic green. Get the cinema manager to advertise his program in the likes of the Guardian (if the REX can be bothered for goodness sake so should the Mowlem). Get rid of the chavs and hoodies that hang around outside and disrupt the films inside. The restaurant bar needs most urgent attention.

At 6:19 PM, nick storer said...

soz but two more points:
1) Sort out the website, you can't even get this weeks film details...
2) Other Towns had equally challenging theatre buildings which they can now celebrate. Think of the makeovers at the Lighthouse in Poole and the de La Warre Pavilion in Bexhill.

At 8:04 PM, The Postman said...

Would love to be positive. But the only way for fresh thinking is to get new people looking at it. Presumably the present people think what they have and do is wonderful -- so why would they change?

At 9:00 PM, Steve Darrington said...

"The man who thinks he can, and the man who thinks he can't, are both right"

To presume that the people running the Mowlem think what they do is wonderful and therefore would never consider change, is to deny them the benefit of your vision!

Why not use this site to make suggestions? I'm sure that they are read by the relevant people at the very least.

At 2:42 PM, Anonymous said...

The consensus is that they do a very good job but unfortunately its the wrong job.

At 10:18 AM, Paul Angel said...

Hall & Woodhouse have just signed a new lease on the restaurant and Bars apparantly, so there won't be a change of franchise there. The fact that I sent a rather grumpy email about the state of the place and that they replied does strike me as positive, though!
The management of the Mowlem theatre does need a kick up the bum, though... I wonder if the problem is that they make enough money to tick over from the rents and leases on shops and bars, so no real effort to attract theatre and cinema goers. They need a proper plan in place (and publicly in place) to improve the quality of the cinema and theatre experience and the nonexistant PR. At the moment it feels like a visit to a badly run village hall! My father rescued and ran the Tivoli in Wimborne for 10 years, so I speak with some experience of how things can be done well!

Don't know how you discourage the chavs - play classical music in tyhe foyers and the chav-hut outside?

At 8:53 PM, Anonymous said...

Thinking of the makeovers at Pool and Bexhill, where did the money come from? Where does the money come from that funds the work at the Mowlem and why are they not awarded huge grants like the others? Why is there no financial support from the town council for a facility as important as a theatre? When the water company offered to turn the plant compound of their building site (where the mock amphitheatre now stands) into a leisure centre, why was that blocked? Who owns the leisure centre that is conveniently located near the caravan park? And who owns the caravan park? Who decides what the money is spent on, regardless of where it comes from? How much does it cost to run a public building? What can be done to increase income, so that the suggested improvements can happen? Is there anyone who can see the value of investing in the arts so that the vital facelift can be done? Was it a mistake to knock down the Victorian building in the first place? Until the chavs are kicked into touch, no-one will want to put anything worth having in a public place. Presumably those with all the bright ideas have no clue about any of the above. Put your hand in your pocket and do something useful with it. Lobby funding bodies to support local arts. Ideas and suggestions are worthless without hard bankable cash. Nothing happens without hard bankable cash. There are some very generous people in Swanage but the kind of work that it really needs has many more noughts after it than those generous people are able to afford.

At 10:03 PM, Cheesemeister said...

I realise this could be dangereous but I am going to stick my neck out and tell you that I am the Chief Theatre Technician at the Mowlem. I absolutely love my job and it pays my bills. I do not have other jobs I can take at the drop of a hat so bear that in mind when you formulate your questions. I will not sully my name with replies to flames, belligerence or ill-considered comments. I will treat you exactly as I would if I met you in person. I don't bite (often) and if you see me in the bar be nice to me, engage me in conversation and intelligent discussion, or just tell me a decent joke. Drinks are always welcome.

I like some of your ideas and I agree with some comments. Personally, I would like to have some architectural lighting in the foyer area when that gets to the top of the list. I have some very creative ideas on how to spend lots of money. That we don't have.

To Paul Angel. You obviously have seen some great ideas from conception to fruition. I have worked at the Tivoli myself when I took a tour there; it is a fabulous theatre front of house and there have been some admirable technical improvements too. Please share your ideas! Examples of real ideas that have worked, or even failed, are worth ten times the weight of off the cuff remarks.

I agree with all the remarks about the hoodies and chavs. They are the bane of my life and even more so of the life of Brian. He's not the Messiah, he's the theatre's Administrator (we do not have a manager, but I'll save that explanation for some other time).

As regards the facelift, my personal taste in architecture does not accommodate buildings typical of the 1960's style. I might add that the internal design is also dreadful and I do not believe it was designed by someone who had ever even been to a theatre let alone tried to put on a show: a loading bay on the first floor? What on earth were they thinking? Did any of you see us doing the get-in or get-out when "Dead Easy" was on? However, a rebuild that rectifies the biggest gaffs in theatre architecture will cost millions and we have to improve what we have before anyone will see the theatre as worthy of such huge investment.

Before you give me earache about the bar or the foyer, remember that as the Chief Technician, my area of influence is mainly the technical aspects of the theatre. I can sympathise till we all end up in a big sloppy group hug but frankly my time is already overstretched with maintaining and improving the technical aspects of the theatre to a standard I would be proud of.

One of the most important lessons I learned when changing careers from IT to professional theatre was being able to work with what you've got and that imperfect punctuality is always preferred in this business to perfect lateness. There isn't a theatre technician in the world who is happy with the facilities available. At least, not one with whom I wish to be associated. Furthermore, lateness of delivery in both live and recorded entertainment is measured in minutes, seconds and fractions of a second, not months, days and hours as it is in IT.

Well that's my opener. I'll come back when time allows.

At 1:14 PM, Anonymous said...

Someone asked about funding. There is a very simple reason why the Mowlem does not get lottery or other public funding. A basic condition of public funding is that the people running the organisations it goes to must be accountable. The Mowlem trustees are not accountable and have absolutely no intention of making themselves accountable. They would rather be kings in a threadbare castle than have to stand for election. Its quite obvious they would rather let it fall into the sea then let the people of Swanage decide how our main cultural asset is run.

At 7:40 PM, Anonymous said...

Hard to be positive. We wanted to plan an evening out for a couple of families, so to be sure of getting seats we tried to book tickets, to be told 'we don't sell tickets in advance'. What sort of blinkered moronic organisation is that?! Certainly doesn't seem like one that actually wants to sell tickets and make money out of running any sort of business. And why will they sell theatre tickets in advance but not film tickets? Time for the trustees to hand over to people with half a commercial brain.

At 2:48 AM, Cheesemeister said...

We are not allowed to. We are also obliged to open the box office 45 minutes before a film. No earlier. No later. If there are two customers or more, we are obliged to show the film. If there is only one customer we are obliged to refund the customer and tell them to come back another time. There are mystery customers, though they don't all make good spies and some are recognisable. These obligations are the terms of our contract. If we break the terms of our contract, they stop supplying films and reserve the right not to supply films already arranged.
With theatre, the contact is with the production company, which is usually far less restrictive than commercial film. Why is this do you wonder? It's all about protection of revenue and branding. Throughout the entire supply chain there is far more money to be made per seat from a big multiplex with their computerised automated projectors requiring one projectionist for many films than at a small theatre that runs on two projectors of pre-war design (but post-war manufacture) requiring full-time attendance for the entire film.

At 7:42 AM, Anonymous said...

Well done Cheesemeister! For far too long the workings of the Mowlem have been shrouded in mystery. Your explanations are most welcome. Have you considered going to a meeting of Swanage's finest, STRATA? Social at the Quarr Gallery this Wednesday 16 August.


Post a Comment

Positively Lobster Potty

peveril said...
Well done - the Lobster Pot (below the Grand Hotel) gets a good review in today's Guardian Weekend (19 August).More positive reporting and news items like this is what Swanage needs to reinvent itself:

"The Lobster PotSheps Hollow, Swanage, Dorset (no telephone)
Walk left along Swanage seafront, away from the crowds, and nestled between rows of painted beach huts is this gem. Organic delights are served on the terrace, such as Dorset ploughman's (with home-made pâté), locally smoked trout, crab salad, panini and all manner of home-made cakes." Review by Guardian reader Emma Fernandez, Swanage.

Please?

Can we try to keep posts civilized? There seems to be an increasing tendency to insult people who may have different opinions to your own. Speaking for myself, it just makes me skip the post and move on — so the more agressive the post, perhaps the less chance there is of your point being heard.

Stand up and be counted?

There are too many anonymous comments on this blog. How about making everybody register so they can't hide?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 8/18/2006 02:35:23 PM

Swanage Bay Users Association

A group has been started to represent the views of people with an interest (whether commercial, social or other) in what goes on in and around Swanage Bay. It's early days (and may even prove unnecessary, as there is a council committee that is responsible for many of the same issues)but if you are interested, look at:

http://swanagebayusersassociation.blogspot.com/

Grammar School site?

Can anyone throw any light on the rumour that Planning Permission has now been granted for the building on the Old Grammar School site?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 8/16/2006 05:15:57 PM

STRATA

So what or who is STRATA?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 8/16/2006 04:30:38 PM

how lucky we are

Biggers said...
If this forum is representative of the real local issues of Swanage (litter, ugly buildings, inactive town council) which I'm sure are all very valid then I think you should step back and say "my god how lucky we are".I'm a regular visitor to the town coming from the suburbs of London. I come here for the natural beauty and peace of the place - if you came to stay in my town (which is one of the nicer suburbs) you'd be racing back to Swanage in time for tea!So why not say what's the best building / thing in town. My top 3 have to be (1) Ballard Down - the climb up there and view back down (2) The new beach (3) The chips in the square (and I do use the litter bins)

Chamber of Trade

Can somebody please tell me what the Chamber of Commerce actually contributes to the town?
"Everyone with an interest in improving the future for business in and around the Swanage area is very welcome at any of our meetings." says their April 2006 minutes, the latest on the website.
But what has the Chamber actually done?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 8/12/2006 07:26:06 AM

Regatta weak?

David H said...
Isn't about time we hit the regatta week on the head? Make it something that lasts three months with fireworks every weekend and organised activities all Summer? No offence to the many volunteers that help, but this is going down hill. We used to have Swanage Summer Time Radio, but now the carnival doesn't even have a web site...What people want is crabbing/sand castle/cryptic treasure hunt competition every day of the holiday. Plus big events to bring in crowds like races and stuff. Swanage can do much better.

School's out

Does anybody own the local 12 year olds or are they like the lost boys? They always seem to be around smoking, spitting e.t.c. They make the town look messy. Somebody must know who they are? Anyway they're very bored and take it out on my street otherwise known to them as smokers alley (Institute Road). The police are aware so to avoid them getting asbo's if anyone knows their parents tell them they need activities. By the way our local binman has hurt his back hence why our alley looks like Beirut so if anyone knows a binman my wheelie needs emptying its full of maggots.

Mr Royston Vasey

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 8/02/2006 08:54:07 AM

Where's Swanage going?

There is another consideration that may need a thread of its own. Is Swanage moving upmarket? All these takeaways serving day trippers and campers/caravaners rose in importance and number as the traditional holiday market declined back in the 60s and 70s and Swanage, like other resorts, responded by cheapening its product There are signs that this has reversed, for example with Nick finding it worthwhile to offer oysters. As well as short breaks we seem to attract lots of people for their second or third holiday in the spring or autumn. Has anyone else notcied this?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/29/2006 02:36:49 PM

Paul Nash in Swanage

Swanage Quay by Paul Nash
Originally uploaded by m.hadley.

Paul Nash in Swanage

Can you tell us more about Paul Nash please

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Posted by David H to swanage view at 7/28/2006 10:35:48 AM

posted by The Postman @ 8:21 PM 2 comments
2 Comments:

At 8:24 PM, The Postman said...

There's a good book called 'Paul Nash in Swanage" by local author Pennie Denton. I'm sure the Bookshop opposite Somerfields will have it or can get it.

At 8:25 PM, The Postman said...

Let me start with a plug for "Paul Nash in Swanage -Seaside Surrealism". by Swanage writer Pennie Denton.

This is what the Tate says about him:

"Paul Nash (1889-1946) is one of the most important artists of the first half of the twentieth century and the most evocative landscape painter of his generation. He is best known for his work as an official war artist, producing some of the most memorable images of both the First and Second World Wars.

Nash was also a pioneer of modernism in Britain, promoting the avant-garde European styles of abstraction and Surrealism in the 1920s and 1930s. In 1933 he co-founded the influential modern art movement Unit One with fellow artists Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth, and the critic Herbert Read. It was a short-lived but important move towards the revitalisation of English art in the inter-war period.

Nash, however, found his personal inspiration in the English landscape and he saw himself in the tradition of English mystical painters William Blake and Samuel Palmer. He was particularly drawn to landscapes with a sense of ancient history: grassy burial mounds, Iron Age hill forts and the standing stones at Avebury and Stonehenge. For him these sites had a talismanic quality which he called genius loci, or 'the spirit of a place', and he painted them repeatedly."

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/28/2006 12:47:01 PM

Swanage eyesores?

As a bit of summer fun - would anyone like to add to the list of really ugly buildings and eysores in Swanage ? To start the list I nominate The Mowlem, the Post Office, and the Library.

I dont suppose anything will happen, but it might be an indication of what the locals feel about the appearance of their town.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/25/2006 01:51:43 PM

Poole/Swanage row

The former'Red Lion Row', from Poole Quay to Swanage is scheduled, I believe, for Monday 7 August.

About this site

Re: some recent comments

1/"More pictures would be great, but put them in comments, not the front page."

-- I don't think this is possible.I think photos have to be posted by facilitators and have to go as a main topic (but I might be wrong: will explore some day). I post photos to www.flickr.com first, then to the blog. Others might like to try, see if it works for you.

2/ "A new comment alert would be ideal."

-- again, I don't think this is possible, but do explore the "blogger.com" site, you may find a way and can then tell everyone else

3/ There are bound to be ways of making this site better/more useful-- or even perhaps a better blog provider: if you have ideas/solutuions, post them please

Bay swim

Congratulations to Katie Barlow, swimming from Peveril Point to Ballard Head, in 55 minutes on Tuesday 11th July (with an escort boat). Who's next?

Swanage Advertiser

One can perhaps get an idea of how much the owners of the Advrtiser care about local news when you see how many titles they own!

Media titles owned by Newsquest Media Group
Website: http://www.newsquest.co.uk

NEW SUBJECT

If you want to raise a new topic, post your comment in this section — just click first on Comments (bottom right), then on Post a comment (bottom left of the next window), and a new heading will soon be set up, allowing others to see and add their own comments. It seems it's sometimes easier to click on 'Post anonymously' than to open an account in your name - you can always add your name to your message.

Foreign Visitors

Have you all noticed the increased number of American, Australians and French tourists this year? The world wide marketing for the Jurassic Coast seems to be working.

Problems Facing Coastal Towns

Follow the link below to listen again to the chair of the select committee charged with examining the problems faced by coastal towns.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/youandyours/listenagain/tuesday.shtml

Caravan Park

What's this about the town council caravan park? There was something in the paper in weymouth that the council had been told it shouldnt be selling caravams amd taking commisions on the deals and that the council might have not only to hand over the running of the bar and catering for someone else to run, which its done, but to do the same with the whole caravan park. what's going on? have I missed this being written up locally?

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/20/2006 11:53:10 AM

Mowlem Metamorphosis?

Posted by Mr. Paul Angel

Everyone (including me) has had a moan about the state of the Mowlem, especially the disgusting mock-victorian bars, so i decided to have a moan to Hall & Woodhouse, who share responsibility with the trustees (as far as I know). Here was their very positive reply:
"PaulGood news!There is a major internal and external upgrade planned for the Mowlem in 2007. I couldn't agree more that it is currently not doing itself justice.Thanks for your feedback.RegardsNick SellickArea Manager".
Now I think that's great, and even better if they consult local people about the new look they could go for. So I thought we could have a conversation here!My opinion: Go for a clean contemporary look with the bar that sticks out clad in oak, the signs modern and maybe backlit, the glass should be cleaned up and left as glass, the lower area where you can sit outside should have some decent benches and lighting, the interior should be white and have local art in it in a changing display, and they should reflect the modern building, the coastal location and the local art scene...What does anybody else think - BE POSITIVE!

Beach bozos

I see the wooden steps leading down to the beach at Sheps Hollow have been removed,making it difficult for people to get up or down. I gather this has happened twice now, for use as firewood by a few inconsiderate morons. Presumably it's the same people leaving glass bottles (and broken bottles)on the beach. How dense and uncaring do people have to be not to realise that this might seriously injure someone? I see in the Echo that on Ballard Estate a house recently had its fence kicked in and wood was also taken from a bungalow under construction.
[http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/purbeck/display.var.835548.0.youths_leave_trail_of_litter_and_vandalism.php]

What can be done? Perhaps if someone sees this going on they could call the police and maybe take photos with their mobile if they have one.

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/17/2006 04:53:11 PM

Price check?

Can anybody recommend a good website that will help me to compare prices of everyday items over the last 50 years please?

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Posted by Steve Darrington to swanage view at 7/17/2006 08:25:14 AM

Jazz weekend?

Why was the posting about the Jazz Festival removed?

Jazz weekend?
7 Jul 2006 by The Postman
Am I right to deduce from the number of jazz-theme paintings in some galleries that the Jazz weekend is upon us? If anyone with any knowledge of this would care to let anyone know, please post a comment here.

swanage view - http://swanageview.blogspot.com

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/16/2006 07:51:22 PM

Second homes?

Wow all you holiday home people better watch out now is there not a new lawa saying that unocuppied homes can be seized to house people, with no right of appeal, another crushing blow for all the hard workers !

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Posted by Anonymous to swanage view at 7/13/2006 11:16:17 PM

Free Broadband?

Could someone in the know enlighten
us about WiFi access from the set up at
the Town Hall please.
(Questian from Anonymous)

Half full or half empty?

Have you noticed how quiet the pubs have been this year? (not just in the hot weather) Are people socialising elsewhere? And is this because drinks are so expensive in the pubs nowadays, compared with supermarket prices? If you do go to a pub for a drink or a meal, do you feel you get value for money?

PIER HEAD UPDATE

APPEAL WITHDRAWN

This has been a difficult decision, but, we have decided to withdraw from the appeal scheduled for July 11th. I quote from the Architects letter to PDC: "All parties are agreed that the latest Design, which was Refused Planning Permission at the Planning Board on Thursday 29th June 2006, represents a distinctly better option for the Pier Head Site (than the previous), which makes the examination of the Original Scheme at Appeal a somewhat pointless exercise.
Obviously my Client and myself were truly shattered and distraught by the Refusal by the Planning Board of our Latest Scheme which has received so much Local support from all sections of the community most particularly Swanage Town Council, The Residents Association, Swanage Building Preservation Society, and was roundly praised by South West Design Review Panel." The hope is that a negotiated amended proposal can be urgently agreed with the Planning Officers and put before the committee. This was supported by the comments of planning committee chairman John Hyde directing the officers to "try and negotiate suitable modifications" for a solution. It was also backed up by Bill Trite, leader of Purbeck District Council who said: "It's not a matter of being a stick in the mud, we just need a proposal on a slightly smaller scale."

England Flagging?

Will those who polluted Ballard Down with a large white peice of cloth with a red cross on it now remove it.

Smash and Crab

Has anyone else heard that there are two cash points in Swanage where frauds have taken place and people have had their accounts cleared of money?

Pier Head Update

***Planning Officer savages new plans
(see page 16) at:
http://www.purbeck.gov.uk/pdf/RECS%20JUNE06.pdf
***Swanage Town Council have recommended approval: On June 9th the Parish Council discussed the proposals, and without a single vote against, recommended PDC should pass the plans.
***South West Design review Panel: Purbeck District Council referred the application to the prestigious South West Design Rewiew Panel. You can read their report at:www.pierhead.plus.com/SWAP.htm

Dead Easy at The Mowlem

'Dead Easy' - The Premier of a new play at the Mowlem, running 10-15th July, by west end theatre playwright Jeremy Paul. Tickets on sale at box office or at the Advertiser Commercial Lane.

NEW SUBJECT

If you want to raise a new topic, post your comment in this section — just click first on Comments (bottom right), then on Post a comment (bottom left of the next window), and a new heading will soon be set up, allowing others to see and add their own comments. It seems it's sometimes easier to click on 'Post anonymously' than to open an account in your name - you can always add your name to your message.

Swanage Residents Assn 17May minutes

Swanage Residents' Association
Meeting held at 7.30 pm on Wednesday 17th May in Catholic Hall, Rempstone Road

1. The SRA Chairman, John Leach, chaired the meeting. Committee members present were: Stewart Borrett, Robert Owen, Rowland Hughes, Councillor Colin Bright and Councillor Mike Hadley; Apologies: Councillor Cherry Bartlett, David Price-Hughes, and Mr. & Mrs.Postlethwaite

2. Pier Head development
Barry Chapman (Architect) and Nick Storer presented new design proposals
for the site. BC explained their awareness of the importance of the site for Swanage and their desire to develop a building that harmonised with existing buildings and the landscape while looking forward to the future in terms of design, function and materials. He explained how the Old Rookery would remain unchanged; how the roof line would be lower than that of the Rookery (and of the previous scheme); that the intention was to provide retail/accommodation units that could offer life/work balance and entertainment opportunities for the community in the form of restaurants and a gallery.
Questions raised (and answers provided) included:
Q - How can architect dictate use of building? A - Only by making top floors more attractive for living environments
Q - How can architect avoid glare from roof? A - Aware of issue, will consider materials carefully to provide matt effect.
Q - How can architect avoid light pollution, from a building with so much glass? A - Aware of the issue, roofs will overhang to prevent upward light loss; hope to exploit technology, such as photo-voltaic opaque glass to function as blinds
Q - How this scheme better than previous? A - better sight lines from and around all points; no turrets (disliked by some); slightly smaller footprint; slightly less accommodation; less overlooking
Q - What about Rowing Club? A- Tried to accommodate, but not able to. Believe they are still exploring possibilities across the road.

3. Annual Report
John Leach explained actions of last year were largely detailed in latest edition of the newsletter "The Independent". Two meetings held last year: one with PC Clapp about policing in Swanage; one attempting (unsuccessfully) to clarify the position of the Town Partnership. He also explained he had written a number of letters on behalf of the SRA: about wheelie bins; Seacourt development; the Grammar School; Dorset schools; Ambulances; Advertising 'A' boards; the Swanage Partnership

He noted the same problem of lack of volunteers to join the committee.

4. Treasurer's Report
JL noted that copies of last year's Accounts were available at the meeting, and summarised that there had been a net deficit over the year of £425 (Income: £1023, Expenditure (mainly newsletters; meeting advertising and halls): £1448.52), which it is hoped would be remedied by the modest increase in membership to £3. Balance: £1481.44 JL thanked Rachel Kerley for her continuing efforts - and repeated her plea for someone to take on this role. There were no takers.

5. Election of Officers
As constitutionally required, JL resigned his office. Only to be nominated again, and to accept. Other officers were asked if they were prepared to be re-elected, agreed, and were.

6. Minutes of the Open Meeting 17 October 2005
Minutes circulated at this meeting, and have also been published on www.swanageresidents.org.uk and www.swanageview.co.uk, as well as
circulated to all committee members. Many of the topics addressed have been covered in the Independent newsletter.

Matters arising:

Parish Plan (Swanage & Community Partnership): JL noted he has attended Partnership meetings, but remains disappointed at the lack of communication and the public reporting on progress. Was told by Chairman no report would be published until the end of 2006.The meeting discussed the apparent confusion on funding. Councillor Colin Bright reported that at the last meeting, the Chairman, Ann Faulkner had said quite categorically, that funding was to cease and was "unlikely to continue beyond December" Yet at the recent Parish Assembly, the Town Clerk had been adamant that government funding would continue, as would Town Council support (in terms of rooms/admin). It
was suggested that the confusion might be owing to one tranche of funding ending in December, although more should be forthcoming. John Wootton also asked what the money had been spent on (referring to figures that have been suggested of about £40,000)?

The Association will continue to try to establish what is going on.

7. Activity of Residents' Association?
JL noted that there had been some responses to the question raised about how active the Association should be, and asked for more responses before people left (via the ballot box provided).

8. Alcohol license application, premises in Lower High Street
Robert Owen raised the matter of an off-sales application for a small take-away snack bar opposite Jenkins, seeking a licence to sell alcohol until midnight. He argued that this was unnecessary and could only lead to trouble, in an area that already suffers considerably. There was discussion about the fact that licensing is now in the hands of the Purbeck District Council. Councillor (and District Councillor) Colin Bright pointed out that government's recent law change presumes that any premises may have an alcohol licence unless there is good reason why it may not. Robin Brasher noted there are four key criteria for rejection: the prevention of harm to children; the prevention of public nuisance; the prevention of crime and disorder; and public safety. Councillor Mike Hadley also noted that (as acting Mayor Gary Suttle had said at the Parish Assembly) apparently the law provided for greater notice to be taken by anyone objecting to any problems arising.

There seemed to be general consensus that Robert Owen may indicate to the Purbeck Task Group that the SRA has concerns about this application.


9. AOB
a/ Civic Service Sunday 25th June 2006 at St Mary's Church. Please advise JL if wish to attend
b/ Beach Opening: Councillor Colin Bright reported that there was to be an official "beach recharge" ceremony in the area of the Ocean Bay Restaurant, at 10.30 am, Saturday 27 May.
c/ Bay View Caravan Park: Robin Brasher reported that the restaurant had applied for a licence to sell alcohol between 8 am and 12 midnight. Councillor Colin Bright noted that this function was now no longer operated by Swanage Town Council.

10 Next meetings:
Committee meetings: TBA
Quarterly meetings: TBA

11 Thanks
John Leach thanked (16 or so) residents for coming (despite the rain and a football match) and thanked Phylis Denton and her daughter for preparing refreshments.
Minutes: Mike Hadley (E&OE!)
Footnote

Ballot box result!!
1) Should the Residents Association be - more aggressive 1 vote
2) Should the Residents Association be - much the same 10 votes
3) Should the Residents Association be - less active 0 votes
Above from over 300 questionnaires sent out.