MEETING NOTES
Place: The Warehouse, Castle Wharf Meeting Date: 29.04.03
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present: Cllr. Lindy Foster Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Cllr. Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Alan Prest British Waterways
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
1. APOLOGIES
Dr David Hilling - Inland Waterways Association,
Paul Corley - Environment Agency
Lorna Clark - DBC Planning
Cllr. Ken Coleman - DBC
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
Lorna Clarke had been ill, and would produce the notes as soon as her time permitted.
3. MATTERS ARISING - None.
4. UPDATE ON SCHOOLS PROJECT
It was agreed that the children had produced delightful work.
The five winning schools are
Two schools share joint first prize
Victoria School - Berkhamsted
St. Rose’s – Boxmoor
They receive a school personalised painted can for each school and £75 of book tokens for each school.
The three runners up are
Tring School
Potten End School
St. Thomas Moore
They receive a school personalised painted can for each school and £50 of book tokens for each school. The prizes are to be presented within the next month on a date to be agreed with the competing schools. Dacorum Borough Council and British Waterways were thanks for funding the project and for their cooperation and assistance with the many hours of work which had been involved.
It was agreed that the competition should be repeated in the coming academic year, as long as funding could be secured. A number of schools in the Borough have already expressed an interest in joining in. A small exhibition of the winners work is currently in the council chamber at Berkhamsted Civic Centre and Maria Baveta has arranged for it to be exhibited in a window of Marlows Information Centre during the middle two weeks of June.
5. UPDATE ON THE PLANTING AND CLEARANCE PROJECTS
LFW reported that the clearance of the wetland area by Broadwater Lock had been completed, but within two weeks of completion a great deal of rubbish had already re-appeared which was very disheartening. Likewise all the rubbish had been cleared from the River Bulbourne which had taken days, but this also was reappearing. LFW also reported that the daffodil planting had been completed as far as Northchurch and in a number of places throughout the town.
6. UPDATE ON THE TOW PATH
Alan Prest agreed that LFW would make an inspection of the towpath with Ralph asap to look at any defects that have arisen. The overflow under Castle Street Bridge would also be addressed.
7. INFORMATION BOXES
It was agreed that Dacorum Borough Council and British Waterways would jointly fund information boxes for each of the four towns Tring, Berkhamsted, Hemel and Kings Langley. These would hold the existing leaflets on each town and encourage tourists to stop off enjoy the facilities of each venue – they would also include information about shopping opportunities and services available with the appropriate maps.
8. ALAN PREST’S PAPER ON THE FUTURE OF CARP
Alan’s paper was welcomed and it was considered to be best way forward. Berkhamsted Council had expressed a wish to cease contributing to funding for canal based projects as they wanted to concentrate on the River Bulbourne. To move our activities forward to encompass the whole of the Borough was welcomed. The name CHILTERN CANAL PARTNERSHIP was agreed to be ideal, as it followed on the Chiltern Canal Corridor leaflet which had been so well received. Detail of AP’s paper would be further discussed at the next meeting.
9. 9. STATION ROAD RAILINGS
LFW reported that work was continuing every Sunday. All the vegetation clearance to enable the rubbing down and painting to start was completed. About a sixth of the area had so far been undercoated and top coated, but it was a long and time consuming job both for her and the offenders.
10. CASTLE STREET BRIDGE LIGHTING
It was agreed that LFW should continue to request County to replace the missing lights.
11. TOWN ENTRANCE
It was agreed that LFW should forward the ideas to Town Centres Marketing.
12. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
LFW tabled papers on the East of England Market Towns Award Scheme. The submission had to be in by midday on April 30th therefore LFW was asked to make the submission in consultation with Alan Prest on behalf of the partnership in view of the urgency.
13. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
As a number of members were not present it was agreed to arrange this by email
THE STORY OF CARP (The Canal and Riverside Partnership)
REPORT FOR THE ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
26TH MARCH 2003
To explain where CARP is today I would like to tell you a little of the history of the partnership.
When the Independent Council was first elected in 1995 there was already a canal side group led by John Cook and Peter Ginger; that group arose out of criticisms of Kingsgate. They set about raising awareness of the assets of the canal. I remember this particularly as they asked me to lead a walk and talk to them about the history of the waterway. They were a non-political council-led group but had no intention of actually doing any projects requiring capital expenditure.
When I joined the Council in 1995 I decided that if possible I wanted to give the existing group a mission actually to improve our waterways through Berkhamsted. Within British Waterways (BW) I had a staunch supporter who was immensely helpful. There were also two very active councillors Kenneth Duval and Peter Such.
After long consultation with Gino Daurat, the architect of Waitrose, the CARP lock arms were incorporated into the Waitrose design. Mark Lloyd of British Waterways supplied the arms at no cost to us and the John Lewis Partnership agreed to maintain them. We had a number of very fruitful meetings with the landscape architects and the John Lewis Partnership. The result was the very pleasant area we now enjoy.
Our original plans were for a footbridge across the Bulbourne (A Monet type wooden bridge) leading to a family picnic area on the Dacorum land just beyond and adjacent to the canal towpath. Unfortunately this proved too expensive at the time – hopefully we will achieve it in the future!
Our next joint activity was the clearance of the old gas works railway alongside the canal, which took coal to the gas works. This was done in partnership with Dacorum Council.
Following this came the old Waitrose Canal mural delightfully produced by local school children. It has now been dismantled and put into store. It was great fun and we hope at some point to find a new site to put it on display.
We then set up CARP as a legal entity with the help of an Intermediate Labour Market placement, a very helpful company secretary. This was funded by the EU via Dacorum.
A design and feasibility study was undertaken by British Waterways on behalf of CARP, jointly funded by BW, Dacorum and Berkhamsted Town Council, again in approximately the same proportions – 50% British Waterways, 37.5% Dacorum and the final 12.5% Berkhamsted Council.
The Castle Street Bridge redevelopment with the seating and disabled access was our next major project, again funded in the same proportions. This area had been a dreadful mess for years and is now enjoyed by many people including those with disabilities.
The obvious next project was to refurbish the canal towpath so that it was suitable for wheelchairs and mothers with push chairs. The first section of towpath was refurbished with the help of another part-time Intermediate Labour Market assistant, who masterminded the engineering requirements.
Our daffodil planting came about as a result of community donations of nearly £500.
The next project was the educational plinths (I believe the accepted term is interpretation panels), conceived, written and designed by David Hilling and me and made possible by the enthusiasm of British Waterways. The painted bridge signs were designed by me and executed by Phil Speight, a well-known waterways artist. This was funded in the same proportions as the previous projects.
Our next project was the second phase of the towpath, funded in the same proportions. The second host of daffodils was Berkhamsted Town Council funded.
The idea of the waterways leaflet was fist aired in early 1998 and the first £2000 was allocated by Dacorum Council from Town Centres Marketing. BW promised £2000 in the year 2000 and Berkhamsted put in the final £1.000. David and I wrote it for CARP with assistance from Alan Prest of British Waterways and Maria Baveta on technical matters,
CARP is a partnership between local stakeholders in our waterside environment. We are thrilled with the projects we have been able to complete.
It has been accepted that support for this project on the scale that is required to make a real impact has become more and more difficult to raise. We have been delighted that so much support as been pledged to date. So far in excess of £150,000 has been raised. The CARP Committee made the decisions on the nature of the projects.
CARP IS ABSOLUTELY NON POLITICAL. British Waterways is totally non political, the borough council was labour led during the first four years of CARP and conservative led during the second four years. The Town Council was Independent led during the first four years and liberal democrat during the second four years; any claim to CARP as any kind of political achievement is totally inaccurate.
IT IS A TRIBUTE TO TRUE PARTNERSHIP WORKING.
British Waterways and Dacorum cannot be expected to put in anything like as much in the future as their commitment to the canal side Paper Trail in Dacorum, an immensely worthwhile project that is taking considerable funds. It was therefore decided that in the future we needed to look at sponsorship for our community projects. To this end we decided on a schools competition, the results of which will be exhibited widely linked with opportunities for continued investment in the canal project by the community, particularly involving young people’s activities.
British Waterways and Dacorum have funded the Schools project. Work has been carried out initially by David and me and then with a great deal of help from British Waterways and Town Centres Marketing at Dacorum Council. There will goodie bags for all participants and prizes for the winners supplied by British Waterways and Dacorum Council.
Berkhamsted Council have made available for daffodil bulbs a further £200 which has purchased 80 sacks, thanks to the generosity of the growers who let us have them at a much reduced price. The bulbs are currently being planted not only along the canal banks, but also in a number of other places where they can be enjoyed by townspeople. The planting was courtesy of the Hertfordshire Probation Service, who have also done a wonderful job clearing rubbish from the land adjacent to Broadwater Lock and the River Bulbourne. They are currently helping CARP by refurbishing the Victorian railings opposite the station. This work has needed doing for years, so we are delighted to have got it done.
We anticipate that our next project will be to continue the towpath refurbishment from Billet Lane to Northchurch. This will be jointly funded by British Waterways and Berkhamsted Town Council. We are also hoping to champion children’s public art along the waterside. This is not just a partnership between the organisations that pay, but involves the community, so please join us in making our waterways even more of an enjoyable public amenity.
Cllr. Lindy Foster Weinreb
Chair of Canal and Riverside Partnership
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 24 February 2003
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Councillor Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Councillor Kenneth Coleman Dacorum Borough Council
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Paul Corley Environment Agency
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
Lorna Clark DBC Planning
1. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
The minutes were approved.
2. MATTERS ARISING
LFW reported that bulbs had been planted all the way along the towpath to Northchurch and at two of the entrances to the town. Planting at the bank at St Peter’s Church had been cleared with Mark Bonney. KC suggested at Gravel Path outside the gates and requested an e-mail regarding the locations.
3. UPDATE ON SCHOOLS PROJECT
A copy of the letter sent to schools was circulated. Junior schools were being phoned and visited. LFW asked KC if the Waitrose mural could be resurrected for the display at the Council Chamber in Hemel Hempstead. KC thought it might be too big. LFW would investigate whether Peter Such has photographs. Action:LFW, DH, SS
4. UPDATE ON PLANTING AND CLEARANCE PROJECTS
LFW reported that she had organised the clearance of the area around Broadwater Lock, the area by the railings at Station Road, and the river between the Lower Kings Road bridge and the culvert with the help of the Probation Service. There were 30 bags of debris for collection. CC would investigate its removal and see whether the Borough Council could make a chipper available. The Town Warden could assist. It would now be possible to spray the Japanese Knotweed. AP would liaise with Martin Routledge and Barry Bradding. SS congratulated LFW on her efforts. Action: AP, LFW, CC
5. UPDATE ON THE TOWPATH (EXISTING AND FUTURE PLANS)
LFW reported that the Town Council would pay the other half of the cost of the work, but she had a reservation that the previous stretch needed to be made good as it was impassable in places. She would arrange to meet Barry Bradding on site along with KC. It was agreed that it would be useful for BB’s replacement, Ralph Gregory, to accompany them, and that he should be invited to a future CARP meeting.
SS expressed concern that LFW had to find out about problems and that British Waterways had no regular regimen for monitoring. AP pointed out that the towpath was examined, but much depended on the previous few days’ weather. It was more difficult to obtain partnership funding for ongoing repairs and maintenance than for capital works.
LFW said some problems were due to mooring pins being put in badly and the solution might be to install mooring rings. Also water levels rise in Berkhamsted lock pound and flow over the towpath. AP replied that the water management issues were complex and measures in this area, such as raising the edge of the towpath could have adverse effects elsewhere.
SS raised the issue of accessibility and it was agreed to bring this up at the Access Committee. AP said the emphasis was on the physically disabled but there was growing awareness of the needs of the visually handicapped. Only a small proportion can read Braille.
6. CASTLE STREET BRIDGE LIGHTING
KC would keep nagging Mike Bishop.
7. CANAL FIELDS MEETING
The meeting would take place on 25 February. PC apologised that he would be unable to attend.
8. DISPOSAL OF CANALSIDE RUBBISH
After some initial confusion regarding responsibility for the overflowing bins LFW had spoken to Andrew Bowman who had installed them and would arrange to have them emptied. A boarded rubbish disposal point is needed for boaters. AP agreed to find a contact at the Residential Boat Owners Association regarding boat owners and Council Tax. Action: AP
9. RAILINGS OPPOSITE THE STATION
The Town Warden is in touch with Brian Scott re the supply of materials and the Probation Service would carry out the work.
10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
LFW referred to a recent LibDem newsletter which took credit for the canalside improvements without mentioning CARP or recognising the contribution from the various partners. LFW went through the history of CARP, its achievements and the respective contributions to the costs. It was a non-political organisation. AP confirmed that at meetings he was unaware of party affiliations.
RJ asked about the land owned by Tesco’s at Stag Lane, and LFW commented that the Borough Council was firmly against development.
11. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 10.00 a.m. on Thursday 27 March 2003 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre.
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 21 January 2003
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Councillor Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Councillor Kenneth Coleman Dacorum Borough Council
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Paul Corley Environment Agency
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
Lorna Clark DBC Planning
No agenda was circulated as the meeting was an update on the issues raised at the 20 November meeting.
LFW expressed her thanks for the presentations made to the Carp Environment meeting in December.
Heritage Site Status – AP has still to check out SS’s query. SS had given a presentation. Maria Bavetta has been inundated with requests for the canal leaflet and Berkhamsted Library has requested more. AP would investigate whether he could assist. Action: AP
Residential Boats
AP felt the issue was in hand. British Waterways had had success regarding similar problems in Croxley Green. LC circulated an article from Canal Boat and Inland Waterways which described action taken on the Grand Union Canal South. A possible site for provision of facilities had been identified at the footbridge near Waitrose. KC and Councillor Peter Ginger were aware. It was agreed that a small group be convened to deal with the issue. The Environment Agency may also be involved depending what substances were involved. AP has asked Andy Wright, the patrol officer to put notices on all boats in Berkhamsted asking owners to inform BW about any offences.
Waterways Competition/Launch
A number of meetings had taken place. LFW has sent out letters to all schools within walking distance of the waterways within Dacorum. Examples of the project materials were circulated. LFW and DH will visit all the middle and secondary schools and Maria and Caroline will visit the junior schools. SS volunteered to help with visits to schools in Berkhamsted. Action: LFW, DH, SS
Next Project
LFW reported that there was a strong possibility that money would be raised to complete the towpath improvements. However there were problems on the existing sections where further works had been carried out : puddling where inspection chambers had been put in and where the bank had been reinstated. AP agreed to investigate. It was agreed that LFW would contact Gordon Yearwood, the previous Carp project assistant who is a qualified engineer. Action: AP, LFW
Future of CARP
SS quoted an “Action” from the Borough Council’s Draft Cultural Strategy which he felt had implications for future work. CC commented about the potential funding problems facing the Borough Council. This would have a knock-on effect on the Town Council. LFW pointed out that the schools project is intended to raise the profile and hopefully raise sponsorship.
AP felt the future lay in identifying specific projects and seeking external funding through partnerships. Schemes were being developed in Tring, Watford and Rickmansworth involving the Countryside Agency (Rural Transport) and Groundwork.
There would need to be a reconstituted group. Arrangements might be on the lines of those in Rickmansworth. A reconstituted CARP might meet a couple of times a year and feed into a wider body which would form a steering group. SS asked if it would be worthwhile combining with Rickmansworth and Watford, but AP felt Dacorum had such a long stretch of canal it should be separate. It would be necessary to identify sources of funds. AP would try to complete the document he has started. The first stage would be to prepare a draft strategy for Dacorum and circulate it. Parish Councils should be consulted. LFW requested ideas by the beginning of April. Action: AP, LFW
Other Matters
Daffodils: LFW has obtained 80 sacks of bulbs for £200 and arranged for planting to be carried out by the probation service – it however need supervision each weekend by a carp member,
Lights: KC reported that a German supplier has been found.
Railings: LF reported that the insurance issue was solved. British Waterways needs to clear scrub before work can begin. Action: LFW, British Waterways
Information boxes: AP had obtained quotes from Stone. Action: AP, LFW
Plaques and bridge signs: LFW reported that Manchester City Council have been in touch and want to use the same sources. AP said the Milton Keynes Canal Officer had been looking at the towpath improvements and plinths and was going to recommend a similar project.
Any Other Business
AP reported that the week commencing 7 April is Waterway Cleanup week and BW are looking for projects to improve problem areas.
SS thought boat shows were a good way of raising awareness and asked about organising one. AP said they were costly to put on, needed a lot of preparation and need to be commercial – Tring raised £10,000. SS wondered if the Lions could be involved. It was agreed that it may be worth thinking about for 2004.
DH suggested that CARP or its successor could have a display stand. The winning entries in the competition will be taken round waterways festivals.
9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 10.00 a.m. on Monday 24 February 2002 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre.
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 11 December 2002
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Councillor Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Councillor Betty Patterson Berkhamsted Town Council
Councillor Ken Coleman Berkhamsted Town Council
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Paul Holton British Waterways
Paul Corley Environment Agency
Sarah Bentley Chilterns Chalk Streams
Pauline Oliver Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust
Ruth Chapman DBC Community Services
Nick Graham DBC Community Services
Claire Covington DBC Community Services
1. APOLOGIES
Apologies were received from Lorna Clark.
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
Circulated but not agreed as the purpose of the meeting was to discuss the proposed management of Canal Fields and the area along the River Bulbourne.
3. MATTERS ARISING NOT ON THE AGENDA
None raised.
4. OUTLINE OF PROPOSED MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR CANAL FIELDS
NG introduced the outline management plan for Canal Fields, this is a pilot for what will be a series of management plans for all the significant parks and open spaces managed by Dacorum Borough Council. A vision and plan of the site was circulated. It divides Canal Fields into 3 main compartments.
Compartment 1 : Area beyond the Park Street bridge
Proposed wildflower meadow
Compartment 2 : Car park to Park Street bridge
To be managed for amenity use. Play area to remain in its current location, levels to be raised to improve drainage and the size of play area to be increased.
Compartment 3 : Canal to River Bulbourne
Proposed wildflower meadow, selection of species dependent on light levels. This area includes the hedgerow along the towpath (ownership to be confirmed) where new planting can only take place once the weed growth has been controlled. There are a number of gaps in the hedge, which could either be filled or left as access into the open space. The brambles and nettles along the river edge will also need to be removed prior to the planting of bog species. It may take several years of mechanical removal, depending on the resources available, before these areas can be developed.
LFW mentioned the area of daffodil planting by the Waitrose bridge, LFW to provide a plan highlighting this area for inclusion in the draft plan.
NG is aiming to produce the draft plan by the end of January, when copies will be available to members of the public, CARP and Berkhamsted Town Council. It is envisaged that the proposals will be implemented gradually to enable people to become accustomed to the change in management regime.
5. PROPOSED TREE MANAGEMENT
RC outlined the proposals and options for tree works in Canal Fields
Newly planted redwoods
In the wrong position, partly obstructing the area used for ball games. These will be reviewed, suggest retaining the specimens by the path, removing the trees likely to fail, and perhaps moving some of those in the ball game area.
Silver birches by the railway line
Densely planted, however form a screen for the railway line. No management proposed for these, suggest removing 3 or 4 specimens by the bridge which are in poor condition. This will open up the area, improve the condition of the grass and create a view from the foobridge. Before any work is undertaken the work will be publicised through a press release and notices in Canal Fields.
Willows along river edge
Propose coppicing in blocks (as the trees form in natural groups) over an approximate 20 year period and including two blocks in the first five year management plan. Coppicing the trees will create a better screen for Waitrose as the foliage regrowth will be at a more suitable height.
LFW particularly concerned with the group by Waitrose. The Environment Agency has done some work along the river in previous years. BP asked if the growth from the willow fencing could be removed in the first phase of work.
Old swimming pool site
These trees are fine at present, not sufficiently mature to require any work. The recently planted inner line failed, probably due to the rubble beneath the top soil.
SB raised the area beyond the Park Street bridge on the river side of the Canal, and asked if the trees in this area could be cleared to improve the quality of the water.
RC offered to meet with interested members of CARP after Christmas to look at the tree proposals on site. LFW, BP, PC and SB asked to be included.
6. WETLAND AREA BY BROADWATER LOCK
PO outlined the options for this area, which is owned by BW.
Option 1
Maintain it as a damp and shady area with minimum intervention – tidy the trees, coppice where appropriate, remove the rubbish and weed growth from the understorey.
Option 2
Remove the trees and create a new wildlife meadow, planted with tall, colourful species that will look attractive from the lock. Introduce reed species for nesting birds. If this option is chosen, work could not start until after the treatment of the knotweed is completed in 3 or 4 years time.
There was some discussion as to how this work could be funded, as budgets cannot be guaranteed for this timescale. It was felt that there would be a number of grants available for this type of project.
7. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
LFW asked if information leaflets and interpretation boards for the environmental elements of Canal Fields could be explored. RC said that the management plan will include a section which could be used as an information leaflet.
An area by the football club was identified as being in poor condition with a lot of rubbish, it was suggested that CARP could write to the club to ask them to tidy the area Action: LFW
LFW asked if the proposals previously circulated by PO and SB could be included within the management plan. RC agreed that these could be referred to in the document and included as appendices.
SB will be leaving the Chalk Streams Project in mid February to join the AONB in Dorset. Her post will be filled and work on the proposals for the Bulbourne through Berkhamsted will continue.
8. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 4.30pm on Tuesday 21st January 2003 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre.
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 20 November 2002
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Councillor Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Paul Corley Environment Agency
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
Lorna Clark DBC Planning
1. APOLOGIES
Apologies were received from Councillor Kenneth Coleman and Pauline Oliver.
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
The minutes were agreed.
3. MATTERS ARISING NOT ON THE AGENDA
SS queried a reference to heritage site status for the canal in the Town Council’s Statement of Aims and Objectives. AP thought it might have originated in 1999 when British Waterways were seeking World Heritage Site status for the whole canal network. He agreed to check this. Action: AP
LF was concerned that with the closure of Bridgewater Boats there was no sanitary station for residential boats in Berkhamsted and the nearest facilities at Cow Roast and Winkwell would be rendered inaccessible during works stoppages. AP agreed to ensure co-ordination. Possible pollution of the canal was feared. Difficulties of dealing with the problem were discussed. Action: AP
4. WATERWAYS COMPETITION/LAUNCH
LF reported that she and DH visiting secondary schools and Maria and Caroline would visit junior schools. Material prepared by herself and DH and by WOW would be distributed before Christmas and visits would take place at the start of the Spring Term. The competition closing date would be 28 March 2003, and the launch would take place on 9 April. It was agreed that Dave Fletcher, the editors of Canal Boat and Waterways World magazines, and heads of a junior and senior school should be invited to be judges.
5. NEXT PROJECT
Towpath Improvements
LF reported that she and AP had walked the towpath following a wet spell and it was not in a good state. It would not be appropriate to fix the worst sections and the whole stretch would need to be done. The length had been remeasured and the cost reduced to £21,000. Dacorum could not contribute and Berkhamsted Town Council would not contribute unless the Borough Council did. LF would seek contributions from local firms. CC explained the Council’s difficult situation: funding for one project often meant others would be cut. LF also suggested use of Section 106 agreements. Action: LFW
6. FUTURE OF CARP
AP felt the future lay in identifying specific projects and seeking external funding. Local authorities all along the canal were suffering from a lack of funds. British Waterways was obtaining a lot of funding from local heritage initiatives such as interpretive projects from Heritage Lottery funding. LF pointed out that applying for such funding was a specialist activity and the difficulties were illustrated by the problems encountered by the Wendover Arm Trust. DH agreed to identify any expertise in the Inland Waterways Association. LF suggested contacting large companies based in Dacorum. It would be important to make the project relevant to them – e.g. Dixons for an internet canal access point. A different style of thinking would be required. It was agreed that AP would prepare a paper for future consideration. Action: AP, DH, LFW
7. STATION ROAD RAILINGS
LF reported that the problem was solved. The Probation Service had agreed to organise the painting and CC would cover the cost of materials. British Waterways would cut back the vegetation. CC raised the issue of insurance and LF agreed to check with the Probation Service. Action: LFW, CC, and British Waterways
8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
RJ reported a broken light on Station Road. LF to e-mail KC. Action: LFW
AP reported some changes to supervisory responsibilities with Barry Bradding being replaced by Ralph Gregory. It was agreed that LF would write to convey CARP’s thanks to Barry closer to his transfer date of 1 April 2003. Also Liz Kelly would not be returning.
9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 4.30pm on Tuesday 10 December 2002 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre (concentrating on the environment).
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 15 October 2002
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Councillor Kenneth Coleman Dacorum Borough Council
Councillor Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Pauline Oliver Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust
Paul Corley Environment Agency
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
Lorna Clark DBC Planning
1. APOLOGIES
None.
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
Item 7 – Leaflet Boxes
SS pointed out that the minutes failed to record the request for a notice board next to the leaflet boxes. It was agreed that since the boxes would contain information relating to the town, the Town Council’s notice board should be provided. The Town Clerk would liaise with British Waterways regarding costs.
3. MATTERS ARISING NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
4. CANAL LEAFLET
LF reported that there have been lots of requests for the leaflet.
5. WATERWAYS COMPETITION
LF outlined the revised plans for the launch, resulting from two meetings, one at The Bridge with Maria Bavetta and the other with British Waterways’ Local Education Officer.
Instead of being Dacorum–wide, the competition would be confined to schools within walking distance of the canal (DH is drawing up a list). These schools would be visited to enthuse them to take part.
The Education Officer (Elizabeth Johnston) suggested a simplified competition:
Key Stages 1 and 2 making, doing, creating boats with materials from British Waterways;
Roses and Castles – LF and DH to obtain materials
MAPIT – create models of canal and river through Dacorum
Key Stages 3 and 4 Our canal in 2050 – about any part of the canal in any subject or medium.
Members of the group supported the new approach.
5. JAPANESE KNOTWEED AT BROADWATER LOCK
AP reiterated that the contractor is working his way along the canal.
6. NEXT PROJECT
Towpath Improvements
LF reported that the Borough Council would not be able to contribute so the Town Council and British Waterways would have to split the cost 50/50. She had sounded out Town Councillors and there was no clear backing. LF raised the option of upgrading the worst sections, e.g. around the locks, which would cost less. AP felt it was important to make the towpath fully accessible, meeting minimum standards for width etc. Members of the group were asked to e-mail their views to LF before the next meeting. Action: All
The location of the boundary with Northchurch needed to be established, and the precise length measured. Action: AP, LF, Barry Bradding
Leaflet boxes
The ones in Stone had been made at a local boatyard, which would be prepared to make them for Berkhamsted. AP agreed to get a price for making them at Bulbourne Works. Action: AP
Town Entrance Feature
KC had provided a Highways contact, who had indicated there were unlikely to be objections to the proposal. LF had asked for confirmation in writing. LC pointed out that planning permission would be required.
7. NATURE CONSERVATION
PO circulated options for various parts of the area around Lower Kings Road Bridge, along with costs of plants, seed mixes etc. It was agreed that members should study the information and discuss it at the next meeting.
8. WILLOWS
CC reported that the work has been completed.
9. CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA CANAL FIELDS
The existing and possible relocation sites are both in the floodplain. No further work was required from PC.
11. STATION ROAD RAILINGS
KC reported that no one owns the railings. The last person to do anything about them was a former mayor, David Sherratt, who personally arranged for them to be painted, probably out of the Mayor’s expenses. LF could get the Probation Service to organise the painting if the cost of materials were covered.
12. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
AP raised the future structure of CARP under Item 5. As it extended to other areas in Dacorum a new organisation would be required. In response to LF’s suggestion, he did not think a corridor study was appropriate. It was agreed that LF, KC, AP, CC, and LC should discuss arrangements before the next meeting. Action: LF, KC, AP, CC, LC
CC raised the Draft Management Plan for Canal Fields. It was agreed that the December meeting should be devoted to the environment and Betty Patterson, Sara Bentley and Paul Holton (British Waterways) should be invited.
13. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 5.30pm on Wednesday 20 November 2002 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre (concentrating on the future of CARP.
Following meeting: 4.30pm on Tuesday 10 December 2002 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre (concentrating on the environment).
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 10 September 2002
Subject: CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Councillor Kenneth Coleman Dacorum Borough Council
Councillor Stanley Sharpe Berkhamsted Town Council
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Pauline Oliver Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust
Sara Bentley Chilterns Chalk Streams Project
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
Lorna Clark DBC Planning
Also present: Alan Arnold
1. APOLOGIES
Apologies were received from Councillor Betty Paterson. Paul Corley had indicated his unavailability at the previous meeting.
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
The minutes were agreed apart from the failure to record Pauline Oliver’s apologies.
3. MATTERS ARISING NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
4. COMPLETION OF MILLENNIUM PROJECT
It was agreed following that the Citizen’s Association’s wishes regarding the plaques be respected since it is their award.
5. CANAL LEAFLET
Copies of the leaflet were circulated.
LF outlined the plans for the launch, resulting from her meeting with Maria Bavetta. It would be launched to schools and colleges on 6 November 2002, and tied to a competition involving projects related to any discipline at any level, the results of which would be displayed at a public celebration of CARP early in April 2003.
MB would supply prizes for the best entries and a marquee for the event. Businessmen would be invited with a view to raising sponsorship for future canal projects across Dacorum. The closing date for entries will be 1 April 2003. A judge or judges will need to be selected. Members of the Group were asked to consider whether April 4 or April 11 2003 should be the launch date and report back to the next meeting. Action: All
SS observed that several different levels would be involved and that school curricula were very closely planned. A lot of detailed work with the schools would be required. KC was happy with the proposal. DH had spoken to a member of Wild Over Waterways (WOW) which has prepared a school curriculum pack on canals. She had asked to be kept informed of progress in Berkhamsted. It was agreed that AP would contact WOW and report back to a working group consisting of LF, DH, KC, and SS, who would progress the launch ideas. Action: LF, DH, KC, SS, AP
SS suggested that Jonathan Foster would be a useful contact, given the success of the Environmental Fair. LF to e-mail JF. Action: LF
PO offered to promote the event through the Wildlife Trust’s magazine. Action: PO
6. JAPANESE KNOTWEED AT BROADWATER LOCK
AP confirmed that the contractor is working his way along the canal and should reach the site in late September/early October.
LF had noticed members of the public pulling pieces from the knotweed and dropping them, thus spreading the problem. It was agreed that the Town Council should be approached regarding a warning sign. Action: LF
7. NEXT PROJECT
Towpath
LF asked AP to have another look at the section proposed for towpath improvements, as she didn’t think it required the depth of work needed for other sections. It was agreed that the Billet Lane access was not too bad. AP agreed to check the section again, but felt improvements would benefit wheelchair users and people with prams. Improving the towpath would complete to this phase of the project to a consistent standard and CARP could then move on. There was no chance of British Waterways doing a more limited upgrading. Action: AP
Town Entrance Feature
LF reported on her investigations into the entrance feature at Stone, Staffordshire and circulated copies of a photograph. She introduced Alan Arnold who had offered to design the boat and supervise construction at a local school. The only cost would be materials (£1,500). The boat could be named “Graham Greene”. LF indicated that signage would not add much to the cost. The dimensions would be approximately 14’ by 6’ 10”.
SS commented that we needed to see a visual representation. LF said the Stone Town Clerk would be sending all the details to Colin Westwood. CC raised the issue of Highways approval, and KC asked where the sign would be placed at the western end of the town. LF didn’t think that the proposal would be more of an obstruction than the existing sign, and pointed out that Tring had a new colourful sign. DH asked about vandalism. LF said there had been no problems at Stone. AA said it would be constructed to be completely secure. It was agreed that LF would obtain information, prepare a mock-up, and sound out Highways. Action: LF
Leaflet boxes
LF circulated photographs of boxes in Stone which were fabricated by a local boatyard. AP would investigate whether they could be made at British Waterways’ workshops at Bulbourne. A notice on the boxes would say what they contained. RJ asked who would be responsible for stocking the boxes with leaflets. LF said it would be the Berkhamsted Town Warden. Action: AP
Signs On BridgesLF stated it was imperative that the signs are fixed or the money spent on them would have been wasted. AP would talk again to Barry Bradding. Action: AP
8. NATURE CONSERVATION
PO would give a presentation to the next meeting. Action: PO
SB circulated a sheet indicating proposals for action along the Bulbourne, drawn up in conjunction with LF and Betty Patterson. The river had been neglected and the Chalk Streams Project sought to improve habitats, restore character and raise awareness of this endangered feature.
A question was raised about a wire fence between the towpath and the river in Area 5. LF would get Colin Westwood to investigate. Action:LF
Regarding implementation and funding, SB stated that the Countryside Management Service were keen to be involved. The Environment Agency currently had funds available, and the Wild Trout Trust provides grants for improving wild fisheries, and is looking for more urban projects. Costs will be in the range £5k – 20k for the smaller schemes, with the largest, Area 4, costing £30k – 70k.
LF referred to the Wetland area which had the highest community profile. It should be possible to devise a good scheme in the 3 years it would take for the knotweed to be cleared.
KC asked whether the scheme would affect low flows. SB said this was natural behaviour for chalk streams. LF asked whether it would help in changing abstraction licences which were granted when the water table was 3 metres higher. SB reported that the alleviation of low flows scheme would be implemented in 2005 and abstraction from New Ground Pumping Station would be reduced, which should improve the situation. The Environment Agency is commencing Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS). The Colne is high on the priority list. This will provide an opportunity to alter the licences. The EU Water Framework Directive sets ambitious targets and there will eventually be legislation to back reducing abstraction.
9. WILLOWS
AP reported that Mark Tinning would carry the works out this week.
10. CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA
AP circulated colour photocopies of the flood plain map. LF asked LC chase Paul Corley for the paper he had promised. Action: LC, PC
11. STATION ROAD RAILINGS
KC had nothing to report, but would chase up the County for the next meeting. Action: KC
12. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
SS asked about leaflet distribution. AP would be distributing them to local offices and boatyards, as well as other BW locations. Maria Bavetta was distributing them to about 50 outlets. RJ would find out the circulation of the Citizen’s Association magazine. The Town Council had about 2,000 copies. DH would try to have a reference included in the IWA magazine. Action: DH, RJ
SB mentioned the Water Vole Survey taking place on Thursday 12 September, and work on the creation of an Access For All route linking the Bulbourne and the Bourne Gutter.
LF referred to rubbish on the towpath and the lack of facilities for boaters. Talks with the football club had fizzled out. A flat moored in a central position was suggested, but there were concerns about the visual impact. An alternative was more frequent emptying of existing bins. KC said a path was planned from the canalside to the Northbridge Road Household Waste Site. AP agreed that the existing facilities at Cow Roast and Apsley were too far apart and would investigate. Action: AP
PO advised of her new e-mail address: Pauline.Oliver@hmwt.org
13. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 5.30pm on Tuesday 15 October 2002 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre.
CANAL AND RIVERSIDE PARTNERSHIP
COUNCIL CHAMBER
BERKHAMSTED CIVIC CENTRE
MEETING NOTES
Place: Berkhamsted Civic Centre Meeting Date: 16 July 2002
Present:
Councillor Lindy Foster-Weinreb Berkhamsted Town Council (Chair)
Dr David Hilling Inland Waterways Association
Rita Jones Berkhamsted Citizens’ Association
Alan Prest British Waterways
Paul Corley Environment Agency
Claire Covington DBC Community and Leisure
Lorna Clark DBC Planning
1. APOLOGIES
Apologies were received from Councillors Kenneth Coleman, Stanley Sharpe and Geraldine Corry.
2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
The minutes were agreed apart from two errors in Section 7 which should read Broadwater Lock rather than Breakwater Lock and Japanese Knotweed rather than Japanese Knotted (a demonstration of the dangers of injudicious use of Spellcheck).
3. MATTERS ARISING NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
4. COMPLETION OF MILLENNIUM PROJECT
RJ reported that the Citizens’ Association would be prepared to provide plaques on four of the plinths (one at each end, and others at Waitrose and The Moor). It was confirmed that metal plaques were intended. It was agreed following LF’s suggestion that Janet Tilton of Qualcast be contacted to see whether they would be prepared to sponsor the plaques in exchange for recognition. Action: LF
5. CANAL LEAFLET
The final version was circulated with some corrections. It was agreed that white paper was preferable. Those present signed their agreement to hand the documents to the printers.
6. JAPANESE KNOTWEED AT BROADWATER LOCK
AP confirmed that treatment of the knotweed is contracted for September.
7. NATURE CONSERVATION
In the absence of Pauline Oliver (Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust) discussion was held over to the next meeting.
8. NEXT PROJECT
AP announced that inspection had shown that the towpath bank did not require extensive piling as had been feared – only a few coping stones were missing. The towpath improvements could therefore be extended to Northchurch Lock. The length of 400 metres would cost £24,000 (£60/metre). AP would be able to programme it in to his Minor Works budget, provided matching funding was available. LF would approach the Town Council. CC agreed to speak to Mike Kember. LF said that MK had previously requested a presentation on CARP’s achievements. It was agreed that this should be the next project. Action: CC
LF put forward another suggestion. She had been impressed by the way Stone in Staffordshire marketed itself as a canal town and by the quality of canalside development. She had investigated the cost of replacing the brick gateways near Hall Park with a metal mock-up of a butty boat and a sign saying, for example, “Welcome to the home of the Canal Duke” (£ 1,000). It was agreed that LF should investigate further and get it on the Town Council’s agenda. AP would investigate Arts Council grants. Action: LF, AP
9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
AP reported that the Bank Mill Lane steps had been changed to a ramp, although space restrictions prevented full access for all standards from being met.
LF expressed her thanks to Andy Bowman who had cleared out the gully at Ravens Lane without being asked. It was agreed that LF would write on behalf of CARP. Action: LF
LF asked whether the overhanging boughs from the willows in the grounds of the old people’s home could be removed, as they were a hazard to navigation. CC would liaise with AP to agree who would carry out the works. Action: CC, AP
LF also referred to a letter from Laura MacGillivary regarding the felling of trees in Canal Fields and their proposed replacement with redwoods. AP, DH and PC felt these were inappropriate species for the canalside. It was agreed that LF should draft a letter regretting the lack of consultation and expressing the views of the non-Dacorum members of CARP. Action: LF
Children’s Playground, Canal Fields
PC circulated a map showing areas liaible to flood. CC said it would only be moved if the drainage could not be improved. AP agreed to arrange for colour photocopies of the map and their circulation.
Action: AP
Maria Bavetta was organising the launch of the leaflet and it was agreed that this should take place on Monday, September 9 2002 at 3 p.m.
LF suggested and it was agreed that Sara Bentley who had prepared the Chalk Streams Project Resource Education Pack should be invited to a future meeting to advise on the development of a similar resource for the canal.
RJ indicated that the railings facing the station badly need repainting. LF agreed to contact KC as it was a Highways matter. Action: LF, KC
AP advised that a Berkhamsted fingerpost sign is lying at Tringford. It could not be returned to its original location due to the presence of underground services, but could be adapted to other locations. It was agreed that siting next to the nearby plinth would be appropriate. LF, CC and Barry Bradding would meet to decide the precise position. Action: LF, CC
LF raised the issue of Berkhamsted Boats imminent closure and the lack of rubbish disposal points for boaters. There was a possible site on the triangle of land outside the football club ground. DH offered to raise the issue with the IWA. Action: DH
LF circulated a letter from Graham Winwright. It was agreed that a team from CARP consisting of LF, DH, AP, and CC should seek a meeting to discuss the way forward. Action: LF
10. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting was confirmed for 5.30pm on Tuesday 10 September 2002 at Berkhamsted Civic Centre.
