Notes of the Wimbledon Civic Forum Annual General meeting held on 22 February 2007 at Wimbledon College of Art Foyer

1. The meeting was chaired by Stephen Hammond MP

2. The meeting received the Executive Committee’s report, see below.

3. The Accounts for 2005 and 2006 were presented and received

4. Additional members were were elected to the Governing Council, as follows:
Ian Smith, Ann Bamford, Sue Cooke and Michael Curtois.

5. The officers of the Forum were confirmed as
Honorary president - Stephen Hammond MP
Honorary Secretary - Andy Ray
Hon Treasurer - Colin McDermott
Executive committee:
Marcus Beale (chairman)
Ken Wilshire
Tony Tsoukkas
Ian Smith

6. Strover Leader were reappointed as auditors.

7. Topics for forums were discussed:
Olympics 2012 - Wimbledon Town Centre
Secondary Schools in Wimbledon
Shrinking Economies and sustainability
Getting the most out of the planning system
Transport
Physical and mental well-being of Children.
The executive committee were tasked to set dates for these forums.

8. Stephen Hammond introduced the idea of strategic local think-tanks, concentrating on a vision for Wimbledon in 2012 and 2025. These would collaborate with existing groups looking at the town centre, such as the Wimbledon Town Centre Working Group, the Wimbledon Business Forum, and the Wimbledon Society, to bring some strategic vision to the town centre. Those wishing to participate in the think tanks should contact Stephen Hammond. The groups will be of approximately 5 people, and will meet every two months.

9. A period of general discussion followed. Topics raised included
Sustainability and shrinking economies: the growth of population in the south east
Transport and the Olympics: Sustrans and green routes, green chain and cycling train to the All England Club
Young people: the lack of wholesome things for teenagers to do
Perceptions on RELATE on marriage counselling
Timing of forums: it was felt that the 6.30 start is too soon, but 8.00 is for some people too late
Planning: a review of planning processes is being undertaken.

10. The meeting closed at 8pm.

Links:
Executive report to the governing council 2007
Wimbledon Civic Forum Accounts for 2005, 2006.