Notes of the meeting held at Merton Civic Centre on 4 October  2001

Present
Steve Clark, head of planning, LB Merton
Marcus Beale, Wimbledon Civic Forum
Luc Moens, Wimbledon Civic Forum

The notes of the previous meeting were agreed as a correct record.

RAYNES PARK

Library.  Chosen developers have withdrawn their application, which was recommended for approval - some problem with the contract.  A new application would have to be made for the project to proceed.  In the mean time the library will continue to be run as normal.

There are continued pressures for A3 [pub/restaurant] uses in Raynes Park.  The UDP has a rule saying no more than 35% A3 uses in a shop frontage, this level has been reached in Wimbledon Village for example, but there is more way to go in Raynes Park.  A3 uses are usually opposed by residents -  objections must be on local issues.  Could the threshold be reduced for Raynes Park?  No, the government inspector was against the threshold in he first place so unlikely to be acceptable even if possible to review UDP.

WIMBLEDON

P3 development on the Broadway continues.  Lyon House is down.  A recreational and leisure use is proposed above the shops - now to be a health and fitness centre instead of a nightclub.

Odeon site has been sold to IPD who are currently based in Camp View.  They will redevelop as offices. IPD have written to WCF UDTF who have replied offering assistance should they need it with public consultation.

Alt Grove.  The public inquiry has taken place.  Should hear in 2-3 weeks time.


Station site.  Railtrack  the land to the south of the Station  will be relinquished shortly - no longer needed for operational requirements.  Merton will draw up planning brief at the appropriate time if  the land is sold.


Station Precinct - no news

Bus route 93 - TFL proposals for bus priorities - they are currently looking at alternative proposals - revised plans.  Some in favour some against - 93  increased frequency and to run through the night.  Consultation is with he residents associations.  Traffic lights - enforcement of traffic lights - LM emphasised must be enforced for the system to work - this is a matter for the police.

Civic Hall - asked for an extension.

WIMBLEDON PARK

Fairly static - cycle racks put back to transportation people.  Underground have a policy of cycle racks outside tube stations 

The re development of the old garage on Arthur Road is on site.  This should help to maintain vitality in the area.

Safeway proposals for Plough Lane are with the government, and have been for 2 years.  There should be a decision by end of October.

MERTON PRIORY.

Countryside have appointed new architects Fielden Clegg - expect to see plans in 1-2 weeks.  The direction from the mayor of London was to refuse the outline planning application because of insufficient affordable housing.  Asking for 50% instead of 25%.  may need an independent valuer to assess the scheme's viability - although it is a cheap way for government to get affordable housing it must be paid for by he development.