2024 AGM Minutes

MINUTES OF THE SSNA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Monday 13th May, 2024 held 2.00pm at Christ Church

1. Apologies for absence: Joan Hunt, Steve Morton, Penny Pemberton, Chris and Geoff West,

2. Minutes of AGM held via Zoom on 9th May 2023, see separate copy: agreed.

3. 2023 Accounts see separate copy: agreed. Colin explained that the income in the last two years included a generous grant from Subsea7. However, there is no certainty of this continuing. Colin asked if anyone would offer to take on the vacant role of treasurer.

4. 2023 Annual Report see separate copy. Colin gave a summary of the report and reflected on the various ways that the SSNA has supported the South Sutton community since its inception. Various issues were discussed including encouragement for the idea of a termly afternoon drop-in session to develop more social interaction for members.

Councillor Richard Clifton offered an update on the Devonshire Avenue Nature Area where there is an issue as so many children living in that area have no gardens to play in. Others are concerned about the biodiversity which the Nature Area protects. This has led to the creation of a Friends of the Devonshire Avenue Nature Area to discuss the issues. The group are keen to welcome more “friends”. The Council are replacing the current signage.

Another issue Councillor Clifton referred to was the low attendance at the Crime Ward Consultation (next one is 26th June at Devonshire Primary School). Colin Iddles suggested that there is insufficient notice and advertisement of the event. Richard Clifton said that the police find it difficult to set dates in advance of their rotas being settled. He pointed out that the lack of interest by residents perhaps erroneously gave the impression that South Sutton had a very low crime rate.

Susan Shivdasani asked about the reference to the SSNA “helping social cohesion” with reference to Hong Kong residents’ needs. Colin gave examples of various ways the SSNA has supported local initiatives including the arrival of refugees from Ukraine. The newsletters and website will continue to encourage social cohesion.

There was some discussion about the state of the critical care hospital project. So far no planning application has been received. The Government website still has it listed but the Council has had no information. The current demolition of buildings on the site is to encourage investment for the Cancer Hub. The planning application for the Cancer Hub is expected soon. Ann Morton pointed out that various interests are involved including the NHS etc. Colin Iddles pointed out that it may be significant that St George’s and St Helier Trusts now have the same Head.

Colin reminded the members of the need for more committee members.

5. Election of committee members: agreed with no new applicants.

The meeting was followed by a much-appreciated cream tea and a welcome opportunity to socialise.

A Wakeham 24 May 2024