The main topic discussed at August's meeting was the planning application for the construction of a single storey extension to the front of St James C of E Primary School to form a children's centre on behalf of Surrey County Council. The centre would comprise a play and learn area, office, store, WC and lobby. The supporting statement with the application explained that the children's centre is part of a Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) driven programme to provide a children's centre for every community by 2010. The aim is to improve outcomes for all young children, and in particular, to close the gap between the outcomes for the most disadvantaged children. The centre would be run by two part-time staff and provide support and advice for parents in Elstead and surrounding villages. No extra parking was planned and the centre would not increase the pupil numbers within the School. Councillors were concerned that the extra traffic generated by people attending the centre would negatively impact on the traffic density already very congested around the school at drop off and pick up times. The Chairman was asked to write a letter outlining the Council's concerns to the Headmistress, Ann Tann.

Work at the allotment continues, with the land divided into plots and sprayed. The Council paid tribute to Derek Pride and his grandson Tom for giving up their time to plough the land.

An application from Councillor Pat Murphy, in his capacity as Secretary to the Elstead (Thursley Road) Recreational Trust, to erect a small storage shed adjacent to the Pavilion was accepted without much comment. The storage shed is needed to accommodate play equipment belonging to the Peter Pan pre-school and ground care materials.

Councillor Roger Holroyd agreed to continue to be the Council's representative for the SCC Local Committee (Waverley) Haslemere & Western Villages Transportation Task Group. The role is important because he will continue to raise the issue of the need to install a safe crossing point on the Milford Road, especially given the number of children needing to cross the road on their way to and from school.

Elstead Sharks Junior Football Club submitted a request for funding to help them buy equipment for the 2009/10 season. The Council decided to put the club in touch with  Waverley Borough Council Small Grants Officer for advice on extra funding and also suggested an approach to the Football Foundation. If unsuccessful, the Council would look at the application again. The general feeling was that all the effort put in by parents and volunteers to encourage youth sport was commendable and to be encouraged. They can use both recreation grounds free of charge and the floodlights may be used for practice within stipulated hours.

Three recycled plastic benches have been ordered for the Thursley Road Recreation Ground. The Council is still hoping that local businesses will consider sponsoring a bench or individuals may like to fund a bench with a personal memorial plaque so that we can increase the total to six.

The next meeting is at 7.30 pm on 19^th October 2009 at the URC Hall, Milford Road, Elstead. The public is welcome and anyone wishing to raise a matter relating to Council business is able to do so at 8 pm. See you there!