Hope Moirai build in storm resilience at their Exmouth development – otherwise they will have some very unhappy people to answer to!
Category Archives: Exmouth
Reminder: Exmouth seafront poll – most polling stations ( but not all) announced including new ones
What a disgrace that new polling stations have been announced but no-one gets polling cards to know where they should go to vote.
And how can you justify saying you will announce another polling station next week?
The poll arrangements are ludicrous and might merit a complaint to the Electoral Commission. Not to mention being examined at an Exmouth Town Council or EDDC scrutiny committee.
Poll approaching on Exmouth seafront
More information has been released about an upcoming parish poll, concerning redevelopment plans for Exmouth seafront.
It will ask voters to answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the question ‘Should Exmouth Town Council recommend to East Devon District Council that before any further planning applications are approved with regard to the Queen’s Drive development area, that additional independent consultation should be carried out in addition to that required by the applicant and the Local Planning Authority?’
East Devon District Council is proposing new buildings and leisure facilities between the old lifeboat station and The Maer.
The poll was requested by Exmouth resident Malcolm Dodd and nine other electors, and was supported by a show of hands at the annual town meeting last month.
Mr Dodd is said to have sought advice from East Devon Returning Officer Mark Williams on what would be an acceptable question for the poll.
The outcome of the poll is not legally binding on the town council or the district council, which may decide not to take any action.
The poll will take place on Wednesday, April 20, between 4pm and 9pm. All Exmouth residents who are on the electoral register can take part in the poll.
Residents are reminded that no polling cards will be sent out and that there will be no facility for postal votes.
People will need to attend their usual polling station where the polling station staff will ask them for their name and address to check that they are registered to vote. They will then be given a ballot paper to complete.
Any Exmouth resident who is aged 18 and over and who was registered on the electoral register by March 16 this year is eligible to vote.
The polling stations are at All Saints Church Hall, Brixington Community Church, Clayton House Community Centre, Holy Ghost Church Hall, Littleham Community Hall, Palmer House, St John The Evangelist Church Hall, and Withycombe Rugby Club.
There are also two new polling stations at Littlemead Methodist Church, Roundhouse Lane, and The Kennaway Centre in Victoria Road.
Details of one further polling station are awaiting confirmation and will be publicised next week.
http://www.exmouthjournal.co.uk/news/election-2015/poll_approaching_on_exmouth_seafront_1_4485164
Hugo cuts ribbon for the company that rents his constituency office to him
The Carter family were very enthusiastic members of the East Devon Business Forum.
The Carter family owns the offices that Hugo Swire rents for his constituency work along with Greendale Business Park and many other local landholdings and investments.
Hugo Swire cuts the ribbon for the completion of refurbishment work at Ladram Bay, owned by the Carters.
http://www.exmouthjournal.co.uk/news/mp_hugo_s_ribbon_cutting_date_marks_10m_facelift_1_4485032
Gremlins emerging in EDDC relocation plans
True to form, EDDC’s relocation project is not going entirely smoothly.
Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting (6 April) showed cracks already appearing, which the Leadership seemed to merrily paper over.
Long-term Exmouth councillors’ criticism of the planned design of their Town Hall renovation was treated with apparent amusement by Leader Paul Diviani and Chief Officers, Mark Williams and Richard Cohen.
Steve Gazzard (Lib Dem) said the proposed design was not flexible enough, a view echoed by his Tory counterparts, who complained of the “inadequacy of the space to be provided”, and were unhappy that “ all the memorabilia” has had to be taken down. They were also shocked at the possible prospect of having to book, or pay rent , for use of the Council Chamber.
Richard Cohen agreed that “Memorabilia is an issue”, and acknowledged the need for “an organised booking system”, and for what he called “the odd gremlin to be ironed out”. But he had no response to an exasperated Cllr Pauline Stott (Con, Exmouth), whose question showed that rather more than gremlins are involved.
It was proving very difficult, she said, to find alternative premises for staff obliged to move out so the Exmouth Town Hall renovation work could be done. (Estimated time 8-10 months, at a cost of £1m) .“How are YOU getting on with finding somewhere to move out to? I’m wondering if you have found somewhere to move out to?” she repeated.
The proposals for the Honiton newbuild office were criticised, too, with Cllr Peter Faithfull (Ind, Ottery) finding them seemingly “small and cramped”. We have no measurements..of what we are getting”, he said.
And Cllr Jill Elson (Con, Exmouth) was astonished that there was no staff café included in the Heathpark designs. Once again, this was treated as a joke, with Cllr Philip Skinner interjecting that there was always the nearby burger bar!
And Leader Paul Diviani’s remark that they were not using “stellar architects” for the new building, added no reassurance for those anticipating sound investment for public money.
More on that last point coming soon..
Exmouth Regeneration: mixed views, mostly negative
“.. One issue the business owner did have with the developments was what he described as a ‘secrecy’ surrounding the plans.
He said: “I don’t think the council has been very forthcoming. I’ve asked them what the latest position is and they’ve told me they still have nothing to tell me.
“The schemes show I am being moved, but I haven’t officially been told that. If it improves Exmouth and that involves me moving then I’m for it, but I don’t like being constantly kept in the dark and hearing things first in the paper.
“I would like to develop the site, but there’s no point when we don’t know what is happening. The business is being starved of development.” …
Exmouth: development stays on hold as court case continues
This article has not yet appeared on the website – the text is shown below the image:
“Family tourist attractions on Exmouth seafront are set to trade for another summer, after obtaining a legal stay of execution.
Owners of the businesses – Exmouth Fun Park and the neighbouring Arnold Palmer mini-golf course – say they look forward to welcoming back their loyal customers – but East Devon District Council (EDDC) faces its seafront redevelopment plans being delayed for several months.
The businesses had been due for eviction in May, having lost a county court case against EDDC in January. However, Chris Wright, tenant of the fun park, and his mother Maureen, joint tenant with Mr Wright of the golf site, continued their court fight, and in a statement have now said that with their next court hearing scheduled for November, the businesses will keep trading until then – giving them at least one extra summer season.
The statement reads: “We have enjoyed over 40 years’ trading on the seafront and have applied to renew our leases so we can continue our businesses here, where we have built up a loyal customer base.
“EDDC has opposed the renewal of our leases in favour of a redevelopment of the seafront.
“The legal process is ongoing and an application for permission to appeal the first instance judgement will be heard in November 2016.
“Until the hearing of that application, the fun park and golf course will be open as usual and we hope you will continue to support our businesses on the seafront over the summer period.”
The tenants are making an ‘oral application’ for an appeal hearing, having had a previous appeal application turned down by the Court of Appeal.
EDDC is planning new buildings and leisure facilities on Queen’s Drive, between the old lifeboat station and The Maer.
Reacting to the latest development, an EDDC spokesperson said: “The original court judgement made in January required the tenants to leave in May 2016, which would have enabled the council to move on to the site this year.
“This latest action now means that the development of the road, car park and water sports centre will not begin for some period of time until the tenants’ next application is heard.
“The tenants’ application for leave to appeal is listed for November. However, the council is applying to bring the hearing forward.
“For the regeneration of Queen’s Drive to continue, the remaining tenancies on the site need to be ended. The judicial system has twice found in favour of the council that the tenants do not have the right to remain on site as their leases have expired. “While the legal process continues, areas of the seafront will remain boarded up and the multi-million-pound all-year-round development – starting with the national watersports centre is being stalled.”
Also this week, East Devon returning officer Mark Williams has confirmed that a parish poll will take place in Exmouth on April 20, between 4pm and 9pm, asking whether Exmouth Town Council should write to EDDC calling for additional independent consultation on its plan.
There will be no polling cards or postal votes. More details will be listed on the EDDC website and at Exmouth Town Hall on 13 April”
Exmouth: independent Paul Rapley stands for beachfront ward
Independent candidate for Exmouth Littleham ward
Town Council Election
Thursday 14th April 2016
Mr Rapley’s manifesto from the East Devon Alliance website
“Why should you vote?
Currently, all councillors representing the Littleham ward are Conservative and openly support what is happening with the seafront and Plumb Park developments. Do you agree with every Conservative Party Policy? At present you have no other representation in your ward…
Exmouth Town Council and East Devon District Council do not appear to have grasped the concept of openness, transparency and accountability, where many Exmouth residents are unaware of the facts surrounding proposed development until it is too late.
The realignment of Queens Drive for example of this, the detrimental impact being the loss of existing iconic Exmouth attractions and all the associated employment, the loss of seafront car parking spaces and, most importantly, the estimated timescales of the phased development … East Devon District Council’s own estimate is 3 to 4 years!
As the ward responsible for our beachfront, is this what you want?
Why vote for me?
I am fortunate to have appreciated Exmouth both as a tourist and as a resident, having spent many family holidays here and subsequently living in Exmouth for over 8 years with my partner Jennifer, who has lived here all her life.
I am very concerned about the way our town is being developed without proper consultation; from close to home issues such as the impact of the seafront and Plumb Park developments, to wider issues such as the lack of investment in our town centre for job creation and the difficulties in securing a decent transport interchange for our town.
As an Independent councillor I would be free to represent your concerns and wishes, both within the Littleham ward and in Exmouth as a whole, and without fear of a hard-line party whip telling me how to vote.
In other words, you would have a choice and an Independent voice on the town council. A voice that would represent your views without fear of influence from a political party. A voice that would represent your issues. A voice that is as concerned as you are about improving Littleham ward, and Exmouth, for everyone.
If elected I would:
consult with you, as well as with relevant local charities and campaign groups, when required;
hold open councillor surgeries throughout the year;
listen to what the residents within Littleham ward feel strongly about, and present those views to the town council;
support positive changes in our town which are endorsed by the local community;
oppose inappropriate future development plans;
push to improve standards of conduct, accountability, openness and transparency within our town council.
Exmouth Town poll omnishambles – jump through almost invisible hoops to vote!
The poll will ask if Exmouth Town Council should approach East Devon District Council (EDDC) – which is behind the plans for Exmouth seafront – calling for further independent consultation.
Hoop 1: Town Poll (Parish Poll) is on Wednesday 20th April but voting can only take place between 4pm and 9pm.
Hoop 2: Postal and proxy votes are not applicable to this vote – though many will not (yet or maybe ever) know this.
Hoop 3: People will not be sent ballot cards they must just go to their polling station – if they have seen any (as yet unpublished) voting information
Hoop 4: Not all the usual polling stations will be used. No information available (yet or maybe ever) on where it WILL be possible to vote.
Good luck Exmouthians … you are going to need it. Anyone would think ….
Cabinet Agenda – 5.30 p.m. Knowle, 6 April 2016 – a meaty mix of relocation and devolution WITH NO MEANINGFUL COSTINGS WHATSOEVER
144 pages
Minutes take up the first 31 pages
Relocation – pages 32-49
“This update is to advise on progress of the relocation plans and seek Cabinet agreement to further key actions”.
Appendix 1 – Floor plans Honiton HQ and Exmouth Town Hall refurbishment
Appendix 2 – Pegasus Life plan for Knowle Site buildings footprint
Appendix 3 – Service Delivery and Office Relocation Survey results summary
RECOMENDATIONS;
“Knowle Site:
1. Note that Pegasus Life Ltd following public consultation exercises will be submitting its application for development of the Knowle site . The projected likely date of consideration of the application is July 2016
2.Note that Sidmouth Town Council has responded positively to the Deputy Chief Executive ‘s formal proposal to transfer the remaining Knowle Park to Town Council ownership together with a commuted sum and negotiations continue Honiton Heathpark
3. Note that preparations are underway by the design team to submit a planning application for new build Council offices at
Heathpark with a view to Planning Committee consideration in September 2016
4. Note that the new HQ design is moving from concept to detailed design of space allocations for desks, meeting spaces, storage, reception area, Chamber, member area, services and external works
5. Note that construction is planned to commence in November 2016 for a period of up to 12 months, followed by Client Fit Out
Works with occupation of the new HQ targeted for February 2018
6. Note that the Deputy Chief Executive has again met with businesses and staff at the East Devon Business Centre to discuss and advise on project progress Exmouth Town Hall
7. Note that the Deputy Chief Executive and design team have met with tenants of Exmouth Town Hall to discuss their needs,
concerns and expectations regarding the refurbishment of the building and its impact on their operations including any disruption or temporary displacement
8. Note that the Council has issued Section 25 notices to end the tenancies of Town Hall tenants to be followed by negotiation of
new tenancies
9. Note that refurbishment is planned to commence in Autumn 2016 and last between 8 – 10 months, followed by Client Fit Out
Works.
Other
10. That Cabinet approve the use of £47,040 of transformation funds for the additional scope required within the Electronic
Document Management System.
11. Note that the Council has appointed Interserve to provide the Pre Construction Advisory role through a two stage
competitive tender process based upon the CFSW Framework. As part of the second stage tender process, Interserve will be
asked to provide their firm fixed price tender for the Project Works later this Year. If in the event the received tender is not
acceptable a further tendering process will be carried out.
12. Note that there continues to be ongoing detailed engagement with staff and tenants regarding space allocation, twin site
facilities, team locations, internal design, fit out and operational requirements
13. Note that Members have received a presentation on new offices design and layout. Further presentations and discussion will be arranged as the project moves forward
14. Agree SMT’s decision to locate Housing Services in the main as well as availability of other front facing provision (Benefits,
Environmental Health, Planning) on the basis of the findings of the Service Delivery and Office Relocation Survey with
residents (attached at Appendix 3)
15. Note the successful recruitment of a Relocation Facilities Manager post to prepare and oversee the physical relocation of staff and resources”
FOLLOWED BY LOTS AND LOTS OF BUMPH ABOUT WHAT AN EXCELLENT IDEA RELOCATION IS – BUT WITH ALMOST NO NUMBERS …
Devolution – pages 50 – 92
Click to access 060416-combined-cabinet-agendasm.pdf
“To update members on progress of the Devolution Prospectus”
Appendix 1 – Governance Workshop Notes
Appendix 2 – Governance Workshop slides
Appendix 3 – Briefing key messages
Appendix 4 – HoSW Prospectus for Productivity presentation
Appendix 5 – HoSW Productivity Plan Workshop Meeting notes
FOLLOWED BY LOTS AND LOTS OF SLIDES ALL SHOWING WHAT A WONDERFUL THING DEVOLUTION IS – BUT WITH ALMOST NO NUMBERS …
AND ENDING WITH THIS WONDERFUL EXAMPLE OF ALMOST TOTALLY MEANINGLESS LEP JARGON:
“Conclusions and next steps
The key step was felt to be the development of a vision and criteria to drive the development of the productivity plan and the
work streams within the devolution prospectus. Building on the 6 golden opportunities exploring
a) what will move us forward rapidly
b) what will stop us moving backwards
Need this vision to be developed and agreed by our Leaders before we do too much more work within the theme areas.
Recognise that we need to keep the pace.
Twin track process:
The Productivity Plan being the longer term vision of transformation irrespective of what devolution deal we obtain. It will be an overarching plan that will drive ambition for the area.
Devolution – will work rapidly with government to agree a Heads of Terms similar to the East Anglia devolution
model and push for an early deal.
We could commission our universities to undertake some research to explore the options for transformational change in our area to inform the development.
Action:
The PMO will be asked to develop a Next Steps document for comment on the development of the vision, criteria, and the framework and resources required to deliver a shared plan.”
Exmouth seafront tenant loses appeal but doesn’t give up
“SUPPORTERS of the regeneration of Exmouth [aka mostly EDDC and developers] seafront were celebrating a partial victory today.
The redevelopment of the town’s Queen’s Drive site has been given a major boost following a court ruling in relation to the Fun Park and Golf sites on the seafront.
The project is still in its early phases in and specific development will be the subject of public consultation preceding any planning applications.
The tenants of the Fun Park and Golf sites submitted an application for leave to appeal the original County Court decision made in January, which had awarded full possession of these two sites to the council.
The tenant has now applied for an oral application for an appeal hearing.
Councillor Andrew Moulding, deputy leader of East Devon District Council and chairman of Exmouth Regeneration Board, said: “This is an important step in the ongoing legal process in relation to the Queen’s Drive site and we are encouraged by the decision issued on 17 March.
” We are disappointed to hear that the tenant has requested an oral application hearing for an appeal as his actions are causing further delay to the delivery of new road and car park, a £4m Watersports centre and further seafront regeneration on the Queen’s Drive site.
” Our developer partners remain committed to this important seafront site for the benefit of the people of Exmouth.”
The council, which owns the Queen’s Drive area, is committed to redevelop the seafront site and during 2015 had already negotiated with some of the tenants to leave the site following the serving of formal notices.
Exmouth seafront and beach huts: citizens meeting on 14 March at 7 pm
From Facebook:
… Hi Exmouth residents. You may have notices that Exmouth Town Council and EDDC are trying to destroy Exmouth Seafront by building a shopping an leisure complex on the actual seafront. Not only will it include another cinema, but apartments which locals will not be able to afford. On top of this they want to build a water sports complex in an area of the beach that has no swimming due to the strong current. It also means the loss of two blocks of Beach Huts on top of those of us who cannot afford the rise, so have had to give up our huts.
If you feel as strongly as I do about the complete incompetence of both councils on consultation over which many locals do not want, or will be able to be a part of there is a meeting at the
Telfer Building
at Exmouth Community College on
14th March at 7pm.
Please attend if you can to voice your concerns.
“EDDC falls foul of its own policies”
“Exmouth Splash – FacebookPublic Opinion & Discussion Page
A little while ago we reported that EDDC had decided to make permanent a trial that restricted the right to speak at public meetings.
Thanks to one alert Exmouth resident, it was noticed that on the list of speakers in the planning matters relating to Queens Drive, two names had appeared to speak in support. One was Ian MacQueen chairman of Exmouth Chamber of Commerce who is also on the Exmouth Regeneration panel. The second name didn’t ring any bells locally.
One of the conditions now set by EDDC for speakers is that they must have previously submitted a written comment on the application. Nobody could find any such written representation from Mr MacQueen or the second party. In fact there were no comments in support from anyone.
EDDC were contacted by a number of pteople who questioned why these two speakers were on the list to speak in what appeared to be a clear contravention of the new EDDC rules.
The two individuals were removed from the speakers list but we have no explanation as to how ever they got on the list (yet- we will ask).
Cllr Moulding was also on the list to speak but this too seemed to be without complying with the new rules. He was allowed to speak – the explanation being that it was at the chairman’s discretion. Although this seems fundamentally wrong to give the applicant (EDDC) more than the one permitted opportunity to speak, Cllr Moulding’s apparent comments about the swan ponds being nothing more than holes in the ground may well have helped the case for opposing the applications!”
Pensioner holds up Southend seafront development for 10 years …
“Florence Hall has rejected several offers to leave her Southend-on-Sea home despite being the only remaining resident in her block. The 75-year-old bought her house in 1964 with her late husband.”
“Campaigners pursue judicial review over sale of sea-front land by council”
Campaigners have applied for a judicial review of Canterbury City Council’s decision to enter a contract for the sale, subject to planning permission, of seafront land in Whitstable.
The claimants, the Oval Chalet Preservation Community Group (OCPCG) and the Whistable Society, lodged their application in the Administrative Court last week (17 February).
They are advancing five grounds of challenge:
1. Failure to comply with the legal requirements for the disposal of open space land;
2. Entering into a contract that failed to fully accord with the expressed instruction of the council’s executive committee;
3. Excessive secrecy of the resolution-making meeting;
4. Failure to obtain best value for the land sold; and
5. Breach of the public sector equality duty in regard to disabled access to the site.
Angela Boddy, the Chair of the Whitstable Society, said: “Together with the OCPCG, we have tried to sort this out with the council, but to no avail. We have had no alternative but to ask the court to intervene.”
She added: “The council’s head of legal services, Sarah Bowman, told councillors last week that she is likely to spend over £20,000 on barrister fees to fight our claim, so nobody should assume we will win our case quickly or easily.”
More background:
http://www.kentonline.co.uk/whitstable/news/seaside-land-sale-faces-high-91311/
http://www.canterburytimes.co.uk/Campaigners-demand-site-review/story-28789369-detail/story.html
Exmouth seafront demo: Wednesday 24th February at 5.45pm,
Campaign group Save Exmouth Seafront will hold a demo outside The Knowle over development plans.
Louise MacAllister, spokesperson for the group highly critical of the £18m Queen’s Drive project, said many of their questions about “remain unanswered” by East Devon District Council.
It’s despite EDDC recently publishing information in the form of a Q&A on their website.
Louise will lead the demo outside the council offices in Sidmouth on Wednesday 24th February at 5.45pm, as district councillors arrive ahead of a full council meeting.
The group will then field some of the “unanswered” questions at the district authority during the public speaking section of the meeting.
“Previous questions asked by the campaign group have remained unanswered …”
http://www.exeterexpressandecho.co.uk/Save-Exmouth-Seafront-hold-demo-ahead-council/story-28784552-detail/story.html
The privatisation of public spaces – a fast-growing threat
” … Our parks are in the midst of a funding crisis which will almost certainly see the commercial world take another step inside our public space. Despite the widely recognised benefits that parks provide – in terms of health and wellbeing, social cohesion and biodiversity, as well as protection against flooding and defence against pollution – there is no national body to protect them and no statutory requirement for councils to pay for them.
Local authorities have subsequently announced huge cuts to park budgets – 50% in Liverpool, and more than 60% in Newcastle. Others seek alternative sources of funding that threaten the integrity of public space, like Go Ape or Winter Wonderland. These range from the mildly irritating – the Chinook helicopter that hovered over my nearest park filming James Bond for several hours in the middle of the night last summer – to the potentially devastating, such as in Bexley, where the council is selling off at least four of its open spaces.
More will follow. Our parks are in the midst of a funding crisis which will almost certainly see the commercial world take another step inside our public space. Despite the widely recognised benefits that parks provide – in terms of health and wellbeing, social cohesion and biodiversity, as well as protection against flooding and defence against pollution – there is no national body to protect them and no statutory requirement for councils to pay for them.
Local authorities have subsequently announced huge cuts to park budgets – 50% in Liverpool, and more than 60% in Newcastle. Others seek alternative sources of funding that threaten the integrity of public space, like Go Ape or Winter Wonderland. These range from the mildly irritating – the Chinook helicopter that hovered over my nearest park filming James Bond for several hours in the middle of the night last summer – to the potentially devastating, such as in Bexley, where the council is selling off at least four of its open spaces. …”
“Seafront campaign group issues set of questions from seafront users in response to EDDC’s own Q&As”
PRESS RELEASE
15 February 2016
“The Save Exmouth Seafront Campaign Group (SES) welcomed the news in January 2016, that East Devon District Council (EDDC) pledged to publish a set of question and answers in relation to the Queen’s Drive Development.
However the questions and answers, which have now been published online and in local media, are disappointingly vague and fail to address key concerns. The questions EDDC answered were not truly representative of the concerns of seafront users. As such SES has compiled a list of questions that they would like to see answered by EDDC, to actually address the concerns of those who use the seafront.
Louise MacAllister, SES spokesperson, stated that “SES would like to challenge EDDC to answer the questions which we have compiled, from seafront users, and the recurring themes found within the Seafront Survey of 2015.
The entirety of plans for Queen’s Drive have been shrouded in secrecy all along, understandably this only increases the anger of seafront users towards EDDC and the imposition of a largely unwanted seafront development.
While EDDC claim to listen to the public’s views, they have to date, failed to acknowledge the findings of the Seafront Survey, simply brushing off the thoughts and feelings of the public. To give honest answers to these questions would at least demonstrate that EDDC are listening to the public as they claim to be”.
SES would also like to point out that since the release of EDDC’s Q&As, it has been revealed that although EDDC linked Nando’s to the development, Nando’s have no intention of opening a branch in Exmouth. SES are concerned that if the Q&As have misled the public in this respect, what else within the Q&A document is mis-representing what is actually planned?”
QUESTIONS
Save Exmouth Seafront
Questions about the Queen’s Drive re-development:
Compiled by Exmouth residents and seafront visitors
Consultation
There are many paragraphs in East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) double page spread which explain who EDDC previously consulted and how. So why does EDDC appear to be deliberately misleading readers by omitting to disclose the actual results of that consultation? Why are the public being misled on this issue? Those previous consultations netted very few responses and, of those that did respond the majority did not support the proposed changes. Will EDDC accept the challenge to immediately issue to local media an honest version of those results.
In light of the small consultation numbers, why will EDDC not commit to undertaking a further independent consultation, and as soon as possible?
Does EDDC recognise that the initial consultation was misleading in stating ‘NO permanent residential’ and overstating the potential for children’s outdoor space, and that therefore further independent consultation should be undertaken?
Regeneration and project management
Why, if EDDC is set on ‘regenerating’ Exmouth, are they concentrating on altering a large part of our seafront, and creating in effect a separate ‘estate’ of shops, flats and restaurants, instead of regenerating Exmouth town centre, which many recognise as an area in far more need of ‘regeneration’?
Where is the evidence of need for the ‘regeneration’ of Exmouth’s seafront?
Where is the proof of how much extra income would be generated for the town, (as opposed to EDDC)?
When will there be a café at Orcombe Point? This has been raised time and again for years. Why is this not taking priority?
What is the rationale behind forcing the closure of existing businesses now, when the development is in 3 stages, especially the incredibly popular Model Railway/Carriage Café site which had to close last September?
Why is the leader of Exmouth’s regeneration a councillor, living at least half an hour’s drive away, with no known connection to the town? How can he act in the best interests of a town to which he has no connection?
Has EDDC made plans to support local tourism through the many years of ‘redevelopment’ in which many regular visitors will leave, and possibly not return?
If this project goes ahead, and the businesses that open on the Queen’s Drive fail, will EDDC bail them out with public money as it did with Ocean, which, unlike the independently trading is subsidised by EDDC?
Developers and investors
What is the ‘market research’ undertaken to ascertain demand for a cinema, and who undertook this research? Does it demonstrate that the existing cinema will remain a viable and thriving business? When will the findings of this market research be made public?
With so much at stake for the future of Exmouth’s seafront, why would EDDC risk the likelihood of completion of the replacement scheme, by being in talks with Moirai as the preferred developer, when Moirai have filed for bankruptcy and recently had swathes of their company struck off the Companies House Register? Moirai do not have any track record of excellence or even completion of previous projects.
With the credibility of the preferred developers in question, what will happen if they become unable to complete the project?
Businesses
What will be the criteria for leases to be given to those wanting to take on a lease on the development?
Will EDDC commit not to discriminate in any way against existing seafront businesses, should they wish to take on a lease on the development?
Does EDDC recognise the importance of local knowledge in running businesses on the seafront, especially when it comes to challenging Winter conditions?
Will the development include fast food outlets?
What evidence has been obtained or proposed to suggest that existing food outlets, primarily in the town, will not be adversely affected by drawing people away?
Similarly, what evidence has been obtained or proposed to suggest demand for the eight food outlets on Queen’s Drive?
What are the 175 jobs to be created in the ‘wider development’?
Environment
How does EDDC intend to meet the habitat regulations with respect to the development?
In light of the challenging Winter conditions on The Queen’s Drive, does EDDC recognise that a development of this nature would be better placed on an out of town location such as the Liverton Business Park, which could potentially have dual access from Concorde Road?
Accessibility
Will the development include improving wheelchair/pram access to beach and amenities?
Families
What are the three generational, all weather leisure activities provided in the new development (apart from eating)?
What is the justification for the reduction in space for children’s play from 14,500 square feet, to just 3430 square feet, as per EDDC’s response to an FOI request on 27th August 2015.
Free Play and Water Play
Free play and water play is a much vaunted aspect of the development, indeed the original consultation called the development ‘The Splash’, suggesting it would be predominantly water play. Yet there is to date no details around this. Why not? It must by now be possible to offer some detail and for the people to evaluate if this is worth the otherwise unwelcome features suggested?
Why did the ‘Splash’ title disappear, to be replaced by the ‘Queen’s Drive Development’?
Water Sports Centre
Is the water sports centre going to be a private members club?
What evidence is there to suggest that the location of the proposed water sports centre is in fact safe, especially for novices? Has a safety study been carried out?
Will this be a centre actually offering a range of water sports for all, or will this be a kite-surfing centre?
What efforts have there been to ensure there is a viable desire for watching kite surfing festivals that warrants a new, large, dedicated building?
If such efforts have been made, when will the results be made public?
Why is it necessary to spoil an open aspect sea front promenade, that is appreciated by many, for the unproven benefit to a few?
Why did EDDC make so little effort to preserve an existing Spinnakers water sports centre in the docks area? This is a safer area and did incorporate facilities for experienced and trainee sailors.
What are the 45 jobs to be created at the water sports centre?
Visitors and other seafront users
What evidence is available to prove the current numbers of people visiting Exmouth seafront and beach?
What evidence is there that the ‘Queen’s Drive Development will attract even more people to Exmouth seafront and beach’? (As stated by EDDC’s question and answers – question 6).
Dogs
Does the council recognise that for many people, they come to Exmouth seafront because it is dog friendly? And therefore will there be a dog friendly café in any future development?
Exmouth “regeneration”: ” You couldn’t make it up” – but EDDC just did!
“You couldn’t make it up” – but EDDC just did with Exmouth Q and A:
“Nando’s have “no plans” to open up a branch in Exmouth, despite being linked to the future seafront development in a council Q&A.
The popular Portuguese restaurant was listed by East Devon District Council, alongside La Tasca and Pizza Express, as being examples of restaurants that could open in the £18m Queen’s Drive redevelopment project.
But before East Devon piri-piri and chicken fans could get excited, the chain quickly shot down any further speculation.
They say their nearest branch for Exmouth diners will continue to be Exeter.
East Devon District Council has since defended its decision to include the names of three operators in connection with the project.
A spokesperson for the authority said: “It was clear in the responses to the Q and A that Pizza Express, La Tasca and Nando’s were given purely as examples of the type of restaurants that like to attach themselves to multiplex cinema developments.”
Adding: “We think it is helpful to give people some sense of the style of restaurant offer that might be available.”
La Tasca and Pizza Express are yet to comment on their own involvement.”
Moirai expands further in Swindon – free skate park may be at risk
“Moirai Capital Investments are seeking approval for their 31 acre (12.5ha) leisure development which will be built adjacent to and around the newly refurbished Oasis Leisure Centre at North Star.
But although the outline plans mention a skate park – at the moment it is not clear whether it will be a free to use outdoor one to replace the current facility on the site or an indoor paid-for one.
A campaign to save the free outdoor facility has been launched by Diana Kirk of ATBSkate Warehouse at Hawksworth but she believes that their pleas are being ignored as it appears on the plans that it will be an indoor site. You can sign the petition, which so far has over 1,o00 signatures at:
http://www.bit.ly/oasis-skate …
… The plans submitted by Moirai include:
• Up to 50,000 square metres of mixed leisure including a cinema, 5,000 seat entertainment arena, ski centre and other leisure uses which could include a crazy golf centre, comedy club, laser tag and skate park;
• Up to 12,000sqm of restaurants and cafes
• Up to 12,000sqm retail space, with a minimum of 9,000sqm of sports retailing;
• Up to 9,000sqm for a hotel.
The vast £120 million leisure scheme will be one of the largest projects of its type in the UK.
Moirai chairman Martin Barber said: “This is a crucial step in the process of delivering this major development. Getting to this point has been complex, with consideration given to the best possible layout for the project, but also to address issues such as traffic management and the potential environmental impact of the development.”
Coun Garry Perkins, Swindon Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Skills said: “The application represents another step in this exciting project. I am satisfied that now Moirai have put together a proposal that matches the council’s ambitions; I look forward to hearing more as they get closer to turning these plans into a reality .
“These are only the outline plans and until we see the detailed ones it is difficult to say what form the skate park will take, but at least it is part of the plans at the moment.”
It is believed that many visitors to the facility will arrive by train, as Swindon’s station is only a short distance away. Forward Swindon has completed a feasibility study for a new pedestrian crossing over the mainline, adjacent to the station, connecting the north and south parts of the town centre. Seeking funding for the crossing is the next stage.
Chris Hitchings, director of development at Forward Swindon, said: “Swindon is well connected to a huge, affluent catchment. The arena and ski centre, for example, will provide Swindon with high profile destinations to compete with the likes of Cardiff, Bristol and Milton Keynes.”
How a contract between Swindon Borough Council and Moirai Capital Investments changed over time
An article about how a contract between Swindon Borough Council and Moirai Capital Investments for the development of the Oasis leisure facility changed over time
From a blog written in 2014:
“Given the importance of the Oasis example to the council’s plans for the future of the leisure centres, I think we should try to find out what is actually going on there. Here are some facts:
• The agreement between SBC and Moirai was signed in March 2012. In January 2013, the lease was varied at the request of Moirai. The revised terms included the following:
• Moirai’s obligation to provide a minimum area of development on the Oasis site was lifted.
• SBC gave up its option to purchase back the Oasis if no development takes place.
• Should recovery of debt be required as a result of loan default, the bank would be able to sell the lease into the open market.
• In January 2011 the Council invited expressions of interest to build a new leisure centre based on the former Clares site. The plan originally submitted by Moirai showed a ski centre, 7,500 seat arena and hotel on the Clares site.
However, in March 2013, Moirai presented a revised plan for the site, moving the arena (reduced to 6,500 seats) to the south side of the Oasis and apparently leaving half the Clares site vacant.
• Moirai said an application for outline planning application would be submitted in June 2013 (it had previously been expected in March that year).
• At the beginning of May 2014, the application had still not appeared on the council’s planning pages. An application for outline planning permission is now expected later in 2014.
• Oasis Operations Ltd, a management company set up by Moirai, was declared insolvent in 2013 (The London Gazette). The directors, who had resigned earlier in the year, are currently named by online data company Companycheck as directors of other Moirai companies.
• According to Companycheck, at the beginning of May 2014 two of the Moirai companies, Oasis Waterpark Ltd and Moirai Capital Investments (Swindon) Ltd, had recommended credit limits of £0.00. Companycheck could not assign them a risk score as it was too long since they filed audited accounts.
On 8 May 2014 Oasis Waterpark Ltd. had filed accounts and the credit limit has been raised to £25,000 with a credit score of 40 out of 100.
According to the lease variation referred to above, Oasis Waterpark Ltd is the company with the lease on the Oasis.
the time the agreement was signed in March 2012, Mr Martin Barber was described as the Chairman of Moirai. Mr Barber’s directorship of Moirai Capital Investments Ltd ended on 17 February 2014. (CompanyCheck)
• Mr Barber said in March 2012: “We are ready to press forward enthusiastically with the first phase, the refurbishment of the Oasis Leisure Centre. . . We have already plans in hand for the replacement of the Dome”.
…
I don’t know anything about finance, and I do not know what is going on at the Oasis. Clearly these little gobbets of information do not present anything like the whole picture, and they may well be misleading.
However, I question whether, as early as March 2013, when the Council report included the option of “an Oasis type deal”, the council should not have been keeping a closer eye on developments at the Oasis.
I question whether Swindon people should feel confident that the Oasis provides an encouraging model for the future of their leisure centres and golf courses.
In the light of the lease variation agreed in January 2013, I question whether Swindon people can have any confidence that the terms of a lease agreed with a private sector operator to take over the leisure centres and golf courses will not be altered in future at the request of the leaseholder.
And I question whether the Oasis model suggests that Swindon Borough Council is professionally equipped to make a deal with private sector operators over the future of the leisure centres and golf courses which will be to the advantage of the town.”
We also note that several other Moirai companies have appeared in the London Gazette notices of being struck off. Sometimes this is because compulsory information required of companies has not been filed within proper time limits, sometimes it isn’t.
It is usually considered preferable for a company’s reputation and the reputation of its directors to (a) file accounts on time and/or (b) voluntarily wind up a company rather than have it struck off.
East Devon Watch 