Chief Fire Officer recommends new fire station at Saughall Massie and closure of fire stations at West Kirby and Upton
Chief Fire Officer recommends new fire station at Saughall Massie and closure of fire stations at West Kirby and Upton
Dan Stephens (Chief Fire Officer) answers questions at a public consultation meeting in Saughall Massie to discuss proposals for a new fire station (20th April 2015)
There are four agenda items on the agenda of next week’s Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority public meeting that relate to the decision about the future of West Kirby Fire Station and Upton Fire Station.
First (item 3) is a petition asking for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority to “Stop the building of the Fire Station in Saughall Massie and the destruction of precious green belt land”. At the time of writing this petition on the change.org website has 321 signatures. The comments of the signatories can be read here.
According to section 11.3 of the constitution for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority:
“The presentation of a petition shall be limited to not more than 5 minutes and shall be confined to reading out or summarising the subject of the petition indicating the number and description of the signatories, and making such further supporting remarks relevant to the petition as the person presenting it shall think fit.”
Section 11.4 to 11.7 of the constitution deal with the procedure for deputations:
“11.4 Any person likely to be affected by a matter in relation to which the Authority has functions, (other than employees in relation to matters of conditions of service) may ask that a deputation should be received by a meeting of the Authority. Such a request shall be made to the Proper Officer at least seven working days before the meeting to which it relates. The person making the request shall indicate the matter to which the request relates, the number (which shall not be more than five names and addresses of the persons who will form the deputation, and the member or members of the deputation who will speak for them).
11.5 On being called by the Person Presiding, the person or persons speaking for the deputation may make, during a period not exceeding five minutes, such remarks as she/he or they think fit, providing that the remarks shall relate to the matter indicated.
11.6 The Members of the Authority may, during a further period not exceeding five minutes for each deputation, ask questions of the members of the deputation. Such questions shall be asked and
answered without discussion.
11.7 Petitions shall be presented, and deputations received in the order in which notice of them is received by the Proper Officer, without making any distinction between petitions and deputations.”
This agenda item comprises of a report detailing the Chief Fire Officer’s recommendations to councillors (the following is quoted from the report and is the Chief Fire Officer’s recommendation (Wirral MBC stands for Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council and fire appliance means fire engine):
“a. approve the merger of Upton and West Kirby fire stations at a new station on Saughall Massie Road, subject to agreement from Wirral MBC to transfer ownership of the land to the Authority and the granting of planning permission;
b. approve the relocation of the West Kirby fire appliance to Upton to be crewed wholetime retained as an interim measure prior to the construction of the new station
c. amend the capital programme to incorporate the Saughall Massie fire station scheme; and
d. give delegated authority to the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) to continue discussions with partners, including Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service, with a view to sharing the new building.”
There are of course other options that are in theory available to councillors (but I’ll make it clear these are options which the Chief Fire Officer doesn’t recommend). These other options include the outright closure of West Kirby Fire Station and the relocation of the West Kirby fire engine to Upton Fire Station.
Due to the sheer volume of responses to this consultation, whatever I write below is going to leave something out. However I will do my best to summarise some of the responses to the consultation.
The people of Saughall Massie are opposed to a fire station being built at the proposed site (currently owned by Wirral Council) on Saughall Massie Road. There are a variety of reasons given ranging from traffic, green belt issues, noise/disturbance and concerns that building on the Saughall Massie Road site is inadvisable due to regular flooding.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service paid Opinion Research Services £19,195.00 (a spin out company of Swansea University) to do a report for the consultation. Their 49 page report details the results of a range of polling techniques including focus groups, a forum and a postal residents survey.
The deliberative forum for Saughall Massie found opposition to a new fire station there. Most of the group they asked from Upton were also opposed to the use of a greenbelt site at Saughall Massie, but at the same time supported a new fire station in the Saughall Massie area. The West Kirby group & the all Wirral forum were in favour of the Saughall Massie site being used for a new fire station. However ORS does state “deliberative forums cannot be certified as statistically representative samples of public opinion”.
A postal questionnaire was also sent out by ORS to 10,000 households (5,000 to the West Kirby Fire Station area and 5,000 to the Upton Fire Station area). Out of the 1,351 postal questionnaires that were returned a majority in both Upton (51%) and West Kirby (70%) areas went for option one (merging Upton and West Kirby fire stations by building a new fire station in Saughall Massie).
However these findings come with caveats as ORS also state:
“However, consultation is not a numbers game, in which the majority view necessarily prevails (like in a referendum), so the Fire Authority will wish to consider carefully all the arguments, evidence and considerations relevant to this case before taking its decision based upon its assessment of the public good.”
“As a resident of West Kirby and a mother of three young children I object to the proposals to close West Kirby fire station.
This is a ridiculous and dangerous proposal and directly increases the risk of death, from a house fire, to my family.”
“Also please provide a credible reason as to why, in a democratic and fair society, the residents of Saughall Massie’s overwhelming feelings of resistance to this proposed fire station are being overridden by the local Labour Council when equal or lesser feelings of resistance by those in Greasby were considered in full and their request to reject the proposed building of this facility (on a brown field site) was granted.”
“I live next to Saughall Massie Road and during the morning and evening “rush hours” it’s very heavily congested to a far greater extent than other local roads at these times. ”
“I object to the proposed fire station in Saughall Massie because:-
lives could be lost as Saughall Massie Road is already congested. Between 8am and 9.30am Mon-Fri – severe congestion
no open space for dogs & horses to run free
our properties will de-value
damage to wildlife habitats”
“Re Fire Station Saughall Massie Road
I would like to register my disapproval at the above. Building on Greenbelt land is out of order.”
“I would hope that you agree that Monday night’s fiasco did not satisfy the criteria as a meaningful consultation exercise. Having said that, you must be aware that the overwhelming views of the residents, both inside and on the pavement outside, was that this development does not take place at all within our precious ‘Green Belt’.”
“Proposal for a fire station, Saughall Massie, Wirral
I am writing to express my concerns over the proposal to build a fire station on the greenbelt land at Saughall Massie. I live directly opposite the suggested site and am disappointed to learn of this proposal which I personally use at least twice a day to both exercise my dog and meet up with other local residents. There is also a great deal of wildlife and the beautiful Jenny’s Wood. There are water voles, bats, owls to name a few and I am sure that many of these beautiful creatures will be affected by this build if it goes ahead.
I wish to register that I am totally opposed to the build and wish my feelings to be noted.”
The Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority will make a decision on the future of the fire stations at Upton and West Kirby at a public meeting starting at 1.00pm on Tuesday 30th June 2015 in the Liverpool Suite, ground floor, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters, Bridle Road, Bootle, L30 4YD. The agenda and reports for that meeting can be found on their website.
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Wirral Council planning on green belt fire station “there would be some planning policy issues”
Wirral Council planning on green belt fire station “there would be some planning policy issues”
Dan Stephens (Chief Fire Officer) answers questions at a public consultation meeting in Saughall Massie to discuss proposals for a new fire station (20th April 2015)
Continuing from Wednesday’s blog post headlined Wirral Council planning on green belt fire station “inappropriate development” & “potential for significant harm”, I thought people might be interested in more of the emails that went between Wirral Council and the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service about the plans for a fire station in Wirral West as it seems that detailed discussions were going on behind the scenes both at officer level at Wirral Council & Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, as well as discussions with councillors too.
Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 29 April 2014 13:02 To: ‘Ball, David, S.’ Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony Subject: RE: Greasby sites
Very helpful. Thank you all
No need to explore further at present
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David S Sent: 29 April 2014 12:58 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony Subject FW: Greasby sites
Kieran,
Here is the view on this site from my Forward Planning team. It seems that there would be some planning policy issues here but I can explore it further if you want me to.
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Entwhistle, John C. Sent: 29 April 2014 12:56 To: Ball, David S. Subject: RE: Greasby sites
David – the land on the opposite site of Frankby road to St John the Divine is in the Green Belt so a fire station would be inappropriate development and very special circumstances would have to be demonstrated. However there is potential for significant harm to the Green Belt in this location because of its role in maintaining separation between Greasby and Frankby.
John Entwistle Principal Forward Planning Officer,
Forward Planning,
Regeneration and Environment,
Wirral Council,
Town Hall, Brighton Street
Wallasey, Merseyside
CH44 8ED
Telephone: 0151 691 8221
email: johnentwistle@wirral.gov.uk
Fax: 0151 691 8273
Visit our website www.wirral.gov.uk
Please save paper and print out only what is necessary.
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 29 April 2014 12:19 To: Entwhistle, John C. Subject: FW: Greasby sites Importance: High
John,
Do we know anything about this site?
Would a fire station be an acceptable use?
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Timmins, Kieran [mailto:KieranTimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 29 April 2014 08:54 To: Ball, David S. Subject: Greasby sites
Hi David
Do you know anything about land sited on Frankby road opposite St John the divine church? Is that a possible fire station site?
Cheers
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Halpin, Colleen S. on behalf of Armstrong, David Sent: 07 May 2014 16:49 To: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Dear Kieran
Did Tony provide you with the contact for the Woodland Trust?
Any outstanding issues re us moving into Birkenhead Fire Station?
Regards
David Armstrong
Head of Universal Services CYPD
And Assistant Chief Executive
Colleen Halpin
PA to Director of Children’s Services
Children and Young People’s Department
Wirral Council
Tel: 0151 666 4288
Fax: 0151 666 4338
E-mail: colleenhalpin@wirral.gov.uk
www.wirral.gov.uk
From: Timmins, Kieran [mailto:KieranTimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 29 April 2014 06:36 To: Armstrong, David Subject: Greasby Sites
HI David
Can you send me your contact details for the woodland trust (did you have any joy with them?).
Many thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 07 May 2014 17:53 To: Armstrong, David Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Hi David
Tony hasn’t had a chance to send details yet. Be grateful if you could follow up.
Colin, Can you update us on current position on Birkenhead.
Thanks
Kieran
Timmins, Kieran
From: Halpin, Colleen S. on behalf of Armstrong, David Sent: 07 May 2014 16:49 To: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Dear Kieran
Did Tony provide you with the contact for the Woodland Trust?
Any outstanding issues re us moving into Birkenhead Fire Station?
Regards
David Armstrong
Head of Universal Services CYPD
And Assistant Chief Executive
Colleen Halpin
PA to Director of Children’s Services
Children and Young People’s Department
Wirral Council
Tel: 0151 666 4288
Fax: 0151 666 4338
E-mail: colleenhalpin@wirral.gov.uk
www.wirral.gov.uk
From: Timmins, Kieran [mailto:KieranTimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 29 April 2014 06:36 To: Armstrong, David Subject: Greasby Sites
HI David
Can you send me your contact details for the woodland trust (did you have any joy with them?).
Many thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
From: Simpson, Tony Sent: 16 May 2014 11:37 To: Armstrong, David; Schofield, Colin, Timmins, Kieran Cc: Royle, Jeannette E. Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
DavidSmith@woodlandtrust.org.uk]
Regards
Tony
From:/B> Lloyd, Tina A. On Behalf Of Armstrong, David Sent: 15 May 2014 15:37 To: ‘Schofield, Colin’; Timmins, Kieran; Armstrong, David Cc: Simpson, Tony; Royle, Jeannette E. Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Re Birkenhead – I have now signed off a draft report for Cabinet Member approval ASAP. That should allow the other documents to be completed.
Thanks
Tina Lloyd on behalf of
David Armstrong
Head of Universal Services CYPD
and Assistant Chief Executive
Wirral Council
Tel: 0151 666 4313
Fax: 0151 666 4338
email: tinalloyd@wirral.gov.uk
Visit our website: www.wirral.gov.uk
From: Schofield, Colin [mailto:ColinSchofield@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 07 May 2014 18:02 To: Timmins, Kieran; Armstrong, David Subject: Re: Greasby Sites
Kieran
Re Birkenhead, draft lease & associated documents are with Dawn to pass to Wirral’s legal team for consideration.
Need to sort out ICT connections but move in date shouldn’t be too far away.
Regards
Col
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 05:53 PM To: Armstrong, David Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Hi David
Tony hasn’t had a chance to send details yet. Be grateful if you could follow up.
Colin, Can you update us on current position on Birkenhead.
Thanks
Kieran
From: Halpin, Colleen S. [ColleenHalpin@wirral.gov.uk] on behalf of Armstrong, David [davidarmstrong@wirral.gov.uk] Sent: 07 May 2014 16:48 To: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Dear Kieran
Did Tony provide you with the contact for the Woodland Trust?
Any outstanding issues re us moving into Birkenhead Fire Station?
Regards
David Armstrong
Head of Universal Services CYPD
And Assistant Chief Executive
Colleen Halpin
PA to Director of Children’s Services
Children and Young People’s Department
Wirral Council
Tel: 0151 666 4288
Fax: 0151 666 4338
E-mail: colleenhalpin@wirral.gov.uk
www.wirral.gov.uk
From: Timmins, Kieran [mailto:KieranTimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 29 April 2014 06:36 To: Armstrong, David Subject: Greasby Sites
HI David
Can you send me your contact details for the woodland trust (did you have any joy with them?).
Many thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
Timmins, Kieran
From: Simpson, Tony Sent: 16 May 2014 11:37 To: Armstrong, David; Schofield, Colin, Timmins, Kieran Cc: Royle, Jeannette E. Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
DavidSmith@woodlandtrust.org.uk]
Regards
Tony
From:/B> Lloyd, Tina A. On Behalf Of Armstrong, David Sent: 15 May 2014 15:37 To: ‘Schofield, Colin’; Timmins, Kieran; Armstrong, David Cc: Simpson, Tony; Royle, Jeannette E. Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Re Birkenhead – I have now signed off a draft report for Cabinet Member approval ASAP. That should allow the other documents to be completed.
Thanks
Tina Lloyd on behalf of
David Armstrong
Head of Universal Services CYPD
and Assistant Chief Executive
Wirral Council
Tel: 0151 666 4313
Fax: 0151 666 4338
email: tinalloyd@wirral.gov.uk
Visit our website: www.wirral.gov.uk
From: Schofield, Colin [mailto:ColinSchofield@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 07 May 2014 18:02 To: Timmins, Kieran; Armstrong, David Subject: Re: Greasby Sites
Kieran
Re Birkenhead, draft lease & associated documents are with Dawn to pass to Wirral’s legal team for consideration.
Need to sort out ICT connections but move in date shouldn’t be too far away.
Regards
Col
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 05:53 PM To: Armstrong, David Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Hi David
Tony hasn’t had a chance to send details yet. Be grateful if you could follow up.
Colin, Can you update us on current position on Birkenhead.
Thanks
Kieran
From: Halpin, Colleen S. [ColleenHalpin@wirral.gov.uk] on behalf of Armstrong, David [davidarmstrong@wirral.gov.uk] Sent: 07 May 2014 16:48 To: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Greasby Sites
Dear Kieran
Did Tony provide you with the contact for the Woodland Trust?
Any outstanding issues re us moving into Birkenhead Fire Station?
Regards
David Armstrong
Head of Universal Services CYPD
And Assistant Chief Executive
Colleen Halpin
PA to Director of Children’s Services
Children and Young People’s Department
Wirral Council
Tel: 0151 666 4288
Fax: 0151 666 4338
E-mail: colleenhalpin@wirral.gov.uk
www.wirral.gov.uk
From: Timmins, Kieran [mailto:KieranTimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 29 April 2014 06:36 To: Armstrong, David Subject: Greasby Sites
HI David
Can you send me your contact details for the woodland trust (did you have any joy with them?).
Many thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 16 May 2014 13:27 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: GREASBY
Colin,
This work is in progress and we should have something by next Tuesday.
David
DAVID BALL Head of Regeneration and Planning Regeneration and Environment Department Wirral Council
From: Schofield, Colin [mailto:ColinSchofield@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 16 May 2014 08:48 To: Ball, David S. Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: GREASBY
Hi David
Following on from when we spoke last week, I recall you were going to get someone to look at the land at Upton By-pass/Saughall Massie Road to see if there was any potential for us to consider it as a site for the new merged Upton/West Kirby fire station. I think you also suggested that you’d get someone to produce a plan showing any ‘spare land’ in the Greasby area (back to the By-pass) so we can continue to seek out a potential site for the new station.
I was just wondering if you had any news on either of these please?
Regards
Colin
Colin Schofield Regional Project Director North West Fire & Rescue Services PFI Project c/o Merseyside F&RS HQ Bridle Road Bootle Merseyside L30 4YD tel 0151 296 4203 mob 07780 997933 fax 0151 296 4224 email colinschofield@merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 19 May 2014 10:41 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites Attachments: Land Corner Saughall Massie Road 1_2500.pdf; Land North Upton Cricket Club 1_2500.pdf
Colin,
Confidential
Further to our recent conversation and the e-mail exchange last week, please find attached and below some thoughts from my Planning Policy Team about potential sites. Unfortunately, as you will read, there are a number of constraints to these sites but we are having difficulty identifying suitable sites in the Greasby area.
Happy to discuss!
David DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Austin, Hannah Sent: 19 May 2014 10:17 To: Ball, David S. CC: Fraser, Andrew S. Subject: Potential Fire Station Sites
David,
Further to your discussion with Andrew on Friday, please find attached site plans of two potential sites for the relocation of Upton Fire Station. We examined the whole area and these are the only sites that we consider have potential, in addition to the site already being considered. It should be noted, however, that these are still subject to significant constraints. The land at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a Council-owned densely wooded site with access constraints. It is likely that there would be significant highways issues at the junction with Upton By-Pass. The land to the north of Upton Cricket Club is also subject to access constraints and is currently used for horse grazing. It has been submitted through the Call for Sites exercise for consideration for housing. Both sites are also less than 1 mile away from the existing station in Upton.
In terms of Green Belt sites, this type of development would be considered inappropriate and very special circumstances would need to be demonstrated to justify development. The capacity to accommodate fire engines on Frankby Road and the western part of Saughall Massie Road may also act as a constraint to development in Greasby/Saughall Massie.
I hope this helps. If you need anything else please let me know.
Kind regards
Hannah Austin Senior Planning Officer
Wirral Council
Regeneration and Planning Service, North Annexe, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Tel: 0151 691 8192
Email: hannahaustin@wirral.gov.uk
Fax: 0151 691 8188
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David, S. Sent: 19 May 2014 13:02 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info) Attachments: Land Corner Saughall Massie Road 1_2500.pdf; Land North Upton Cricket Club 1_2500.pdf
Colin,
CONFIDENTIAL
Update on sites!
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Fraser, Andrew S. Sent: 19 May 2014 11:36 To: Ball, David S. Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
David.
Just to say that the site at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a designated Urban Greenspace but although highly visible it does not really function as an accessible public open space and Overchurch Park is within 400m to the north, albeit on the other side of the bypass. The visual landscaping impact alongside the bypass could however be retained without retaining the whole of the rest of the site (although this is still likely to be controversial!). The highways issues are however likely to be overriding.
Thanks
Andrew Fraser, Forward Planning Manager
Regeneration and Planning Service
Tel: 0151 691 8218 Fax: 0151 691 8188
From: Austin, Hannah Sent: 19 May 2014 10:17 To: Ball, David S. CC: Fraser, Andrew S. Subject: Potential Fire Station Sites
David,
Further to your discussion with Andrew on Friday, please find attached site plans of two potential sites for the relocation of Upton Fire Station. We examined the whole area and these are the only sites that we consider have potential, in addition to the site already being considered. It should be noted, however, that these are still subject to significant constraints. The land at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a Council-owned densely wooded site with access constraints. It is likely that there would be significant highways issues at the junction with Upton By-Pass. The land to the north of Upton Cricket Club is also subject to access constraints and is currently used for horse grazing. It has been submitted through the Call for Sites exercise for consideration for housing. Both sites are also less than 1 mile away from the existing station in Upton.
In terms of Green Belt sites, this type of development would be considered inappropriate and very special circumstances would need to be demonstrated to justify development. The capacity to accommodate fire engines on Frankby Road and the western part of Saughall Massie Road may also act as a constraint to development in Greasby/Saughall Massie.
I hope this helps. If you need anything else please let me know.
Kind regards
Hannah Austin Senior Planning Officer
Wirral Council
Regeneration and Planning Service, North Annexe, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Tel: 0151 691 8192
Email: hannahaustin@wirral.gov.uk
Fax: 0151 691 8188
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 19 May 2014 15:46 To: ‘Ball, David S.’ Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info)
Thanks again David
Would be grateful if colleagues able to give any more details on concerns on the highway’s issues. We tend to find that
a) Fire stations are a lot quieter than people imagine and rarely respond under blue lights
b) Quite often appliances respond when they are off site doing home fire safety checks etc
Thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David, S. Sent: 19 May 2014 13:02 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info) Attachments: Land Corner Saughall Massie Road 1_2500.pdf; Land North Upton Cricket Club 1_2500.pdf
Colin,
CONFIDENTIAL
Update on sites!
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Fraser, Andrew S. Sent: 19 May 2014 11:36 To: Ball, David S. Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
David.
Just to say that the site at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a designated Urban Greenspace but although highly visible it does not really function as an accessible public open space and Overchurch Park is within 400m to the north, albeit on the other side of the bypass. The visual landscaping impact alongside the bypass could however be retained without retaining the whole of the rest of the site (although this is still likely to be controversial!). The highways issues are however likely to be overriding.
Thanks
Andrew Fraser, Forward Planning Manager
Regeneration and Planning Service
Tel: 0151 691 8218 Fax: 0151 691 8188
From: Austin, Hannah Sent: 19 May 2014 10:17 To: Ball, David S. CC: Fraser, Andrew S. Subject: Potential Fire Station Sites
David,
Further to your discussion with Andrew on Friday, please find attached site plans of two potential sites for the relocation of Upton Fire Station. We examined the whole area and these are the only sites that we consider have potential, in addition to the site already being considered. It should be noted, however, that these are still subject to significant constraints. The land at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a Council-owned densely wooded site with access constraints. It is likely that there would be significant highways issues at the junction with Upton By-Pass. The land to the north of Upton Cricket Club is also subject to access constraints and is currently used for horse grazing. It has been submitted through the Call for Sites exercise for consideration for housing. Both sites are also less than 1 mile away from the existing station in Upton.
In terms of Green Belt sites, this type of development would be considered inappropriate and very special circumstances would need to be demonstrated to justify development. The capacity to accommodate fire engines on Frankby Road and the western part of Saughall Massie Road may also act as a constraint to development in Greasby/Saughall Massie.
I hope this helps. If you need anything else please let me know.
Kind regards
Hannah Austin Senior Planning Officer
Wirral Council
Regeneration and Planning Service, North Annexe, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Tel: 0151 691 8192
Email: hannahaustin@wirral.gov.uk
Fax: 0151 691 8188
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 20 May 2014 08:01 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
Kieran,
I will look into the highway issues in more detail.
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 19 May 2014 15:46 To: ‘Ball, David S.’ Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info)
Thanks again David
Would be grateful if colleagues able to give any more details on concerns on the highway’s issues. We tend to find that
a) Fire stations are a lot quieter than people imagine and rarely respond under blue lights
b) Quite often appliances respond when they are off site doing home fire safety checks etc
Thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David, S. Sent: 19 May 2014 13:02 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info) Attachments: Land Corner Saughall Massie Road 1_2500.pdf; Land North Upton Cricket Club 1_2500.pdf
Colin,
CONFIDENTIAL
Update on sites!
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Fraser, Andrew S. Sent: 19 May 2014 11:36 To: Ball, David S. Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
David.
Just to say that the site at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a designated Urban Greenspace but although highly visible it does not really function as an accessible public open space and Overchurch Park is within 400m to the north, albeit on the other side of the bypass. The visual landscaping impact alongside the bypass could however be retained without retaining the whole of the rest of the site (although this is still likely to be controversial!). The highways issues are however likely to be overriding.
Thanks
Andrew Fraser, Forward Planning Manager
Regeneration and Planning Service
Tel: 0151 691 8218 Fax: 0151 691 8188
From: Austin, Hannah Sent: 19 May 2014 10:17 To: Ball, David S. CC: Fraser, Andrew S. Subject: Potential Fire Station Sites
David,
Further to your discussion with Andrew on Friday, please find attached site plans of two potential sites for the relocation of Upton Fire Station. We examined the whole area and these are the only sites that we consider have potential, in addition to the site already being considered. It should be noted, however, that these are still subject to significant constraints. The land at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a Council-owned densely wooded site with access constraints. It is likely that there would be significant highways issues at the junction with Upton By-Pass. The land to the north of Upton Cricket Club is also subject to access constraints and is currently used for horse grazing. It has been submitted through the Call for Sites exercise for consideration for housing. Both sites are also less than 1 mile away from the existing station in Upton.
In terms of Green Belt sites, this type of development would be considered inappropriate and very special circumstances would need to be demonstrated to justify development. The capacity to accommodate fire engines on Frankby Road and the western part of Saughall Massie Road may also act as a constraint to development in Greasby/Saughall Massie.
I hope this helps. If you need anything else please let me know.
Kind regards
Hannah Austin Senior Planning Officer
Wirral Council
Regeneration and Planning Service, North Annexe, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Tel: 0151 691 8192
Email: hannahaustin@wirral.gov.uk
Fax: 0151 691 8188
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 25 June 2014 08:11 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
Colin,
Apologies for the delay in replying as things have been very busy of late.
On an initial look and taking into account your comments in your e-mail of 19 may, I think we could look at this positively subject to detailed design.
I hope this helps.
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Schofield, Colin [mailto:ColinSchofield@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 25 June 2014 07:55 To: Ball, David S. Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info] Importance: High
Hi David
Do you have any further update on this please?
I understand that Dan Stephens is meeting Councillor Phil Davies on Tuesday & I need to update him before that meeting.
Regards
Colin
From: Schofield, Colin Sent: 04 June 2014 07:58 To: ‘Ball, David S.’ Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
David
Is there any further news on the highways issues please?
Regards
Colin
Colin Schofield Regional Project Director North West Fire & Rescue Services PFI Project c/o Merseyside F&RS HQ Bridle Road Bootle Merseyside L30 4YD tel 0151 296 4203 mob 07780 997933 fax 0151 296 4224 email colinschofield@merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 20 May 2014 08:01 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
Kieran,
I will look into the highway issues in more detail.
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 19 May 2014 15:46 To: ‘Ball, David S.’ Cc: Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info)
Thanks again David
Would be grateful if colleagues able to give any more details on concerns on the highway’s issues. We tend to find that
a) Fire stations are a lot quieter than people imagine and rarely respond under blue lights
b) Quite often appliances respond when they are off site doing home fire safety checks etc
Thanks
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David, S. Sent: 19 May 2014 13:02 To: Schofield, Colin Cc: Timmins, Kieran Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites (further info) Attachments: Land Corner Saughall Massie Road 1_2500.pdf; Land North Upton Cricket Club 1_2500.pdf
Colin,
CONFIDENTIAL
Update on sites!
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Fraser, Andrew S. Sent: 19 May 2014 11:36 To: Ball, David S. Subject: FW: Potential Fire Station Sites [further info]
David.
Just to say that the site at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a designated Urban Greenspace but although highly visible it does not really function as an accessible public open space and Overchurch Park is within 400m to the north, albeit on the other side of the bypass. The visual landscaping impact alongside the bypass could however be retained without retaining the whole of the rest of the site (although this is still likely to be controversial!). The highways issues are however likely to be overriding.
Thanks
Andrew Fraser, Forward Planning Manager
Regeneration and Planning Service
Tel: 0151 691 8218 Fax: 0151 691 8188
From: Austin, Hannah Sent: 19 May 2014 10:17 To: Ball, David S. CC: Fraser, Andrew S. Subject: Potential Fire Station Sites
David,
Further to your discussion with Andrew on Friday, please find attached site plans of two potential sites for the relocation of Upton Fire Station. We examined the whole area and these are the only sites that we consider have potential, in addition to the site already being considered. It should be noted, however, that these are still subject to significant constraints. The land at the corner of Saughall Massie Road is a Council-owned densely wooded site with access constraints. It is likely that there would be significant highways issues at the junction with Upton By-Pass. The land to the north of Upton Cricket Club is also subject to access constraints and is currently used for horse grazing. It has been submitted through the Call for Sites exercise for consideration for housing. Both sites are also less than 1 mile away from the existing station in Upton.
In terms of Green Belt sites, this type of development would be considered inappropriate and very special circumstances would need to be demonstrated to justify development. The capacity to accommodate fire engines on Frankby Road and the western part of Saughall Massie Road may also act as a constraint to development in Greasby/Saughall Massie.
I hope this helps. If you need anything else please let me know.
Kind regards
Hannah Austin Senior Planning Officer
Wirral Council
Regeneration and Planning Service, North Annexe, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Tel: 0151 691 8192
Email: hannahaustin@wirral.gov.uk
Fax: 0151 691 8188
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 July 2014 08:06 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony; Blott, Joe R. Subject: Potential fire station sites in Wirral
Kieran,
Joe Blott, one of our Strategic Directors has asked me to contact you following the recent meeting that Dan Stevens had with the leader of the Council. I understand that one of the discussion points was the various sites that we have been discussing over the past few months for a potential new fire station.
I understand that there may be a need to consolidate all the correspondence and to come to a view if any of these sites are possible locations and if there is a preferred site fro the Council to let you know whether it is available (if we own it) and what the planning considerations may be. I know that we (Asset Management and me from a planning perspective) have discussed a number of sites but would it be useful to meet to come to a considered position on this matter?
Please can you let me know what would be best?
Thanks,
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 09 July 2014 17:02 To: ‘Ball, David S.’ Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony; Blott, Joe R; ColinSchofield@merseyfire.gov.uk;NyreeCollinson@merseyfire.gov.uk Subject: RE: Potential fire station sites in Wirral
Hi David
That’s very timely as I was just discussing with Colin holding a meeting to review the site options and it would make a lot of sense to do that jointly with your input. I’ll get a meeting set up with Colin Schofield, myself and (is it just) you from the Wirral side?
Under separate cover I’ll send a copy of a short note I did for Dan trying to summarise where we are up to which might be useful for all
Best wishes
Kieran
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 July 2014 08:06 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony; Blott, Joe R. Subject: Potential fire station sites in Wirral
Kieran,
Joe Blott, one of our Strategic Directors has asked me to contact you following the recent meeting that Dan Stevens had with the leader of the Council. I understand that one of the discussion points was the various sites that we have been discussing over the past few months for a potential new fire station.
I understand that there may be a need to consolidate all the correspondence and to come to a view if any of these sites are possible locations and if there is a preferred site fro the Council to let you know whether it is available (if we own it) and what the planning considerations may be. I know that we (Asset Management and me from a planning perspective) have discussed a number of sites but would it be useful to meet to come to a considered position on this matter?
Please can you let me know what would be best?
Thanks,
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 09 July 2014 17:07 To: ‘Ball, David S.’ Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony; Blott, Joe R; ColinSchofield@merseyfire.gov.uk;NyreeCollinson@merseyfire.gov.uk Subject: RE: Potential fire station sites in Wirral Attachments: summary of greasby sites update june 25.xlsx
Hi David,
Further to previous email see notes below and attachment which were provided for Chief Exec’s meeting
a) Sites discounted early
Two sites were considered at an early stage and discounted. One was a junior school on Mill Lane – there were concerns about access and no indications that school was willing to give up land. The second was a farm site on Arrowe road – No indications if land was for sale
b) Sites considered in more detail
Since then 6 sites have been considered in more detail. They have been identified by a mix of estates team detective work, suggestions by colleagues and suggestions by Wirral officers. The sites are analysed in more detail in the attached appendix. As it stands there are two “runners” left:-
Saughall Massie Road/Upton By Pass. This is owned by Wirral and looks quite positive based on recent correspondence despite being urban greenspace. It may be a little father from Greasby than planned but access good
The Library/Community hall site in middle of Greasby. However this site not suitable for ambulance services and we would have to deal with multiple partners. Locality is a political hot potato with large public outcry about supermarket development.
c) Latest Developments
Estates team have been liaising with various professional advisers to see if they had any information. We have heard rumours of one potential larger development being put together near Greasby. We are awaiting more details and location
Have also formally instructed Hardie Brack to look for sites and their report is awaited. We believe they may have identified three or four potential plots which we understand all to be farmland that might be for sale.
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 July 2014 08:06 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony; Blott, Joe R. Subject: Potential fire station sites in Wirral
Kieran,
Joe Blott, one of our Strategic Directors has asked me to contact you following the recent meeting that Dan Stevens had with the leader of the Council. I understand that one of the discussion points was the various sites that we have been discussing over the past few months for a potential new fire station.
I understand that there may be a need to consolidate all the correspondence and to come to a view if any of these sites are possible locations and if there is a preferred site fro the Council to let you know whether it is available (if we own it) and what the planning considerations may be. I know that we (Asset Management and me from a planning perspective) have discussed a number of sites but would it be useful to meet to come to a considered position on this matter?
Please can you let me know what would be best?
Thanks,
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 July 2014 17:31 To: Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David; Simpson, Tony, Blott, Joe R; Schofield, Colin; Collinson, Nyree Subject: RE: Potential fire station sites in Wirral
Kieran
I suggest me on the planning side and David and/or Tony on the assets side.
David
Sent from my HTC
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 25 July 2014 14:10 To: Timmins, Kieran; Schofield, Colin Subject: Fire Station -CONFIDENTIAL
Kieran and Colin,
It was good to see you this morning.
I have had the opportunity to speak with colleagues at officer level regarding the thoughts for the centre of Greasby and they are all supportive of the principle. I am now pulling together relevant space details and there are a number of options here which will be helpful. I will forward these as soon as I have them.
I will speak to David Armstrong on Monday about the land issues and will begin to sound out Cabinet Members around the middle of next week,
I will keep you advised.
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 25 July 2014 22:01 To: Ball, David S.; Schofield, Colin Cc: Garrigan, Phil; Stephens, Dan Subject: RE: Fire Station – CONFIDENTIAL
Hi David
Thank you very much for your efforts and pragmatic advice. This seems a really exciting development and one the whole management team are really keen on.
We look forward to working with you to deliver …… Operation Reading by Firelight begins!
Thanks
Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 25 July 2014 14:09 To: Timmins, Kieran; Schofield, Colin Subject: Fire Station -CONFIDENTIAL
Kieran and Colin,
It was good to see you this morning.
I have had the opportunity to speak with colleagues at officer level regarding the thoughts for the centre of Greasby and they are all supportive of the principle. I am now pulling together relevant space details and there are a number of options here which will be helpful. I will forward these as soon as I have them.
I will speak to David Armstrong on Monday about the land issues and will begin to sound out Cabinet Members around the middle of next week,
I will keep you advised.
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 25 July 2014 22:06 To: Timmins, Kieran Subject: Re: Fire Station -CONFIDENTIAL
Kieran
You are welcome.
Let’s hope we succeed.
David
Sent from my HTC
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Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 04 August 2014 14:28 To: Timmins, Kieran Subject: RE: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby
Kieran,
Thanks!
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Timmins, Kieran [mailto:KieranTimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 04 August 2014 14:23 To: Ball, David S. Subject: FW: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby.
Hi David…… see Dan’s correspondence with Ester Mcvey below…..
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
From: Stephens, Dan Sent: 04 August 2014 14:17 To: Strategic Management Group Subject: FW: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby.
Colleagues,
For your information.
Regards,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: Stephens, Dan Sent: 04 August 2014 14:16 To: ‘RIMMER, Andrew’ Cc: Wainwright, Sandra Subject: RE: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby.
Andrew,
We are, in conjunction with Wirral, exploring the possibility of a joint development on the site of the existing Library and Community Centre situated in between the Red Cat and Medical Centre on Frankby Road.
This would be an ideal location from an operational response perspective. The joint development may consist of a fire station, library and community facilities in an integrated building. It is possible North West Ambulance Service may also be interested in the development but that is by no means certain and would be subject to confirmation.
This proposal is at a relatively early stage and not all potential partners have yet been approached. Whilst I have a degree of confidence that such a development is deliverable I would ask that any response to constituents over this issue is heavily caveated to that effect.
My suggestion would be to respond along the lines of ‘Considerations are now focused on a site in the centre of Greasby in Wirral ownership. Whilst discussions are at a very early stage, the debate has been around delivering a shared public services facility that would add significant value to the community’.
Thanks,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: RIMMER, Andrew [mailto:andrew.rimmer@parliament.uk] Sent: 04 August 2014 10:52 To: Stephens, Dan Cc: Wainwright, Sandrea Subject: RE: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby. Importance: High
Sent on behalf of Esther McVey MP
Dear Dan
Further to your telephone call with Esther and email correspondence below regarding Fire Station proposals in Wirral West, would it be possible to update us on consideration of a site in Greasby so we have the latest information. It was one of the issues raised on Friday at the Over 60s Fair MFRS attended at Hoylake Community Centre.
Many thanks for your help.
Kind regards
Andrew
Andrew Rimmer
Office of Esther McVey MP
From:“Stephens,Dan” Date:8 May 2014 19:35:53 BST To:“MCVEY, Esther (2nd Mailbox)” Subject: RE: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby.
Dear Esther,
For ease of reply I have inserted responses to your questions in the body of the e-mail below.
If it assists I can meet with you or give you a call when it is convenient for you to update you on progress?
Thanks,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: MCVEY, Esther (2nd Mailbox) [mailto:officeofesthermcveymp@parliament.uk] Sent: 08 May 2014 14:14 To: Stephens, Dan Subject: FW: Update on station proposals for Upton and West Kirby
Dear Dan
Please could I ask for a quick update on decisions over stations in Wirral West following contact from constituents. Specifically
Have MFS identified land as yet in Greasby? – Not as yet. We are exploring the possibility of acquiring a site on the Greasby Frankby border and also a site at the junction of the Upton Bypass and Saughall Massie Road. As you are probably aware there are very few available plots of land in the area which would be appropriate for a fire (and possibly ambulance) station
If so when will any consultation process commence? – If we are able to acquire a site we will report this to the next scheduled Authority meeting and request approval to undertake a 12 week public consultation process immediately thereafter. I can send you the process we are utilising for the proposed merger in Knowsley (Huyton with Whiston) which was approved at the Authority meeting on 6th May if that would assist?
If not, what would the likely timescale be to implement alternative proposals and when would any consultation start? – If it becomes obvious that we will not be able to acquire a suitable site for a merger then we will report back to the Authority and advise them of the alternative options to a merger which on the Wirral would be the outright closure of West Kirby. Subject to Authority approval we would then undertake a 12 week consultation process immediately thereafter. Clearly this is the very last outcome we would want so we will explore every land option possible even if that requires consideration of alternative sites (hence the Upton Bypass and Saughall Massie Road reference above)
Many thanks in advance for an update on this matter.
With my best wishes
Esther McVey MP officeofesthermcveymp@parliament.uk
The Parade, Hoylake Community Centre
Hoyle Road, Hoylake
Wirral
CH47 3AG
UK Parliament Disclaimer:
This e-mail is confidential to the intended recipient. If you have received it in error, please notify the sender and delete it from your system. Any unauthorised use, disclosure, or copying is not permitted. This e-mail has been checked for viruses, but no liability is accepted for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this e-mail.
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
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http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
UK Parliament Disclaimer:
This e-mail is confidential to the intended recipient. If you have received it in error, please notify the sender and delete it from your system. Any unauthorised use, disclosure, or copying is not permitted. This e-mail has been checked for viruses, but no liability is accepted for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this e-mail.
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
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This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 September 2014 09:25 To: Stephens, Dan; Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Dan and Kieran,
I saw Lesley Rennie last Friday and she did mention to me the meeting was taking place.
I was in meetings yesterday afternoon so only picked up the e-mail last night. Thanks for the update. I shall wait and see if Lesley can change their minds about this location or not. In the meantime I will not look at this any further until I have some view from the Councillors. I hope there is a positive outcome.
I have copied David Armstrong into this e-mail so he is aware of the latest situation.
Regards,
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Stephens, Dan [mailto:DanStephens@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 08 September 2014 18:57 To: Timmins, Kieran; Ball, David S. Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Thanks Kieran,
David – to confirm Tom and Wendy were very clear that they would oppose the proposal. I will however speak to Lesley Rennie to establish how likely they would be to change their position given the alternative.
Regards,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 08 September 2014 18:07 To: davidball@wiral.gov.uk Cc: Stephens, Dan Subject: Greasby Councillors
HI David
Not sure if you got the message earlier – Tried to catch you on the phone before you went to council meeting.
Dan met Greasby councillors today – Wendy Clements and Tom Anderson (I think). This as at request of Lesley rennie. They do not appear to like the idea of a fire station in Greasby and their initial thought is to oppose the plan based on the conversation today. Dan explained that the alternative option was the closure of West Kirby outright which was also not platable and may cause them to reconsider. However it appeared that their initial view is to oppose.
Can you give me a buzz on 07855 207571 if you want to discuss
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 09 September 2014 09:28 To: ‘Ball, David S.’; Stephens, Dan Cc: Armstrong, David; Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
HI David
I think we would like to initiate discussions with the community hall in any case. The issue we have is that as firefighters retire we can’t staff all the appliances and with two years to deliver a new station its important we don’t lose any time.
Unless that causes any major problems would you be agreeable to proceed. If nothing else at least we can work up properly what is proposed as a joint service hub that may help win hearts and minds!
What do you think?
Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 September 2014 09:25 To: Stephens, Dan; Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Dan and Kieran,
I saw Lesley Rennie last Friday and she did mention to me the meeting was taking place.
I was in meetings yesterday afternoon so only picked up the e-mail last night. Thanks for the update. I shall wait and see if Lesley can change their minds about this location or not. In the meantime I will not look at this any further until I have some view from the Councillors. I hope there is a positive outcome.
I have copied David Armstrong into this e-mail so he is aware of the latest situation.
Regards,
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From:; Stephens, Dan [mailto:DanStephens@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 08 September 2014 18:57 To: Timmins, Kieran; Ball, David S. Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Thanks Kieran,
David – to confirm Tom and Wendy were very clear that they would oppose the proposal. I will however speak to Lesley Rennie to establish how likely they would be to change their position given the alternative.
Regards,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 08 September 2014 18:07 To: davidball@wiral.gov.uk Cc: Stephens, Dan Subject: Greasby Councillors
HI David
Not sure if you got the message earlier – Tried to catch you on the phone before you went to council meeting.
Dan met Greasby councillors today – Wendy Clements and Tom Anderson (I think). This as at request of Lesley rennie. They do not appear to like the idea of a fire station in Greasby and their initial thought is to oppose the plan based on the conversation today. Dan explained that the alternative option was the closure of West Kirby outright which was also not platable and may cause them to reconsider. However it appeared that their initial view is to oppose.
Can you give me a buzz on 07855 207571 if you want to discuss
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 September 2014 10:30 To: Stephens, Dan; Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David; Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Dan,
I have just e-mailed Graham Burgess and David Armstrong on this matter and await their comments.
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Stephens, Dan [mailto:DanStephens@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 09 September 2014 09:50 To: Timmins, Keran; Ball, David S. Cc: Armstrong, David; Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
David,
Can I suggest we have a meeting to discuss our options and possibly include Graham, Phil Davies and even Jeff Green please?
The alternative to a merger of West Kirby and Upton fire stations in an outright closure of West Kirby which we would move to public consultation on imminently. That will undoubtedly result in a degree of political impact and I would want us all to be on the same page in terms of a collective position.
Thanks,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 09 September 2014 09:28 To: ‘Ball, David S.’; Stephens, Dan Cc: Armstrong, David; Schofield, Colin Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
HI David
I think we would like to initiate discussions with the community hall in any case. The issue we have is that as firefighters retire we can’t staff all the appliances and with two years to deliver a new station its important we don’t lose any time.
Unless that causes any major problems would you be agreeable to proceed. If nothing else at least we can work up properly what is proposed as a joint service hub that may help win hearts and minds!
What do you think?
Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 09 September 2014 09:25 To: Stephens, Dan; Timmins, Kieran Cc: Armstrong, David Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Dan and Kieran,
I saw Lesley Rennie last Friday and she did mention to me the meeting was taking place.
I was in meetings yesterday afternoon so only picked up the e-mail last night. Thanks for the update. I shall wait and see if Lesley can change their minds about this location or not. In the meantime I will not look at this any further until I have some view from the Councillors. I hope there is a positive outcome.
I have copied David Armstrong into this e-mail so he is aware of the latest situation.
Regards,
David
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
From: Stephens, Dan [mailto:DanStephens@merseyfire.gov.uk] Sent: 08 September 2014 18:57 To: Timmins, Kieran; Ball, David S. Subject: RE: Greasby Councillors
Thanks Kieran,
David – to confirm Tom and Wendy were very clear that they would oppose the proposal. I will however speak to Lesley Rennie to establish how likely they would be to change their position given the alternative.
Regards,
Dan Stephens,
Chief Fire Officer,
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service,
Bridle Road,
Bootle,
Merseyside,
L30 4YD
0151 296 4102
07967371690
dan.stephens@mfrs.cjsm.net
From: Timmins, Kieran Sent: 08 September 2014 18:07 To: davidball@wiral.gov.uk Cc: Stephens, Dan Subject: Greasby Councillors
HI David
Not sure if you got the message earlier – Tried to catch you on the phone before you went to council meeting.
Dan met Greasby councillors today – Wendy Clements and Tom Anderson (I think). This as at request of Lesley rennie. They do not appear to like the idea of a fire station in Greasby and their initial thought is to oppose the plan based on the conversation today. Dan explained that the alternative option was the closure of West Kirby outright which was also not platable and may cause them to reconsider. However it appeared that their initial view is to oppose.
Can you give me a buzz on 07855 207571 if you want to discuss
Kieran Timmins
Deputy Chief Executive
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority
Fire Service HQ
Bridle Road
Bootle
L30 4YD
Tel: 0151 296 4202
Fax: 0151 296 4224
kierantimmins@merseyfire.gov.uk
www.merseyfire.gov.uk
This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the originator of the message.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, (MFRS) .
Incoming and outgoing emails may be monitored in line with current legislation.
Steps have been taken to ensure that this email and attachments are free from any virus. In keeping with good computing practice the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free.
http://www.merseyfire.gov.uk/
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.clearswift.com
Timmins, Kieran
From: Ball, David S. Sent: 10 September 2014 13:54 To: Stephens, Dan; Timmins, Kieran Subject: Meeting on friday re greasby and west Kirby
Dan/Kieran,
Just to confirm that David Armstrong and I will be attending the meeting at 4pm on Friday afternoon.
DAVID BALL
Head of Regeneration and Planning
Regeneration and Environment Department
Wirral Council
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.
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Wirral Council U-turn on refusal of request for information after complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office
Wirral Council U-turn on refusal of request for information after complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office
Last year, during the 2013/14 audit I requested various information on various payments Wirral Council has made to legal firms. One of these was an invoice for £700 for conveyancing done by DLA Piper UK LLP (a copy of which is below).
Wirral Council invoice DLA Piper UK LLP conveyance £700 7th August 2013
As you can see above it’s for a BACS payment (although the payments over £500 list this as a CHAPS payment) for £700, split into £200 for a contribution towards sewers (although the rest of what the £200 is for can’t be made out due to bad handwriting) and £500 to do with the purchase of the freehold title.
If you look at the image above you’ll find the address of the property is blacked out. Section 15 of the Audit Commission Act 1998 allow Wirral Council to redact information if it relates to a member of their staff (or payments or other benefits made to their staff connected with their employment) or to withhold personal information if the external auditor agrees to it.
So going back to the PR1 form above I wanted to know what the address that this £700 for conveyancing spent by Wirral Council was, so back on the 26th January 2015 I asked using the Freedom of Information Act for the address.
By the 24th February 2015, having received no reply to my request of the 26th January 2015 within the 20 days Wirral Council have to respond to FOI requests, I requested an internal review because of the lack of response.
She then went on to refuse the request using an exception in Regulation 12(5)(e) which states:
“the confidentiality of commercial or industrial information where such confidentiality is provided by law to protect a legitimate economic interest;”
The reasons she gave for refusing the request were:
“in that a public authority may refuse to disclose information to the extent that its disclosure would adversely affect the confidentiality of commercial or industrial information where such confidentiality is provided by law to protect a legitimate economic interest. I have had regard to the guidance issued by the Information Commissioner’s Office, “Confidentiality of commercial or industrial information (regulation 12 (5) (e) Version 1.2. I consider that the following applies to the requested information in the context of the other information included in the payment requisition fund:-
The information is commercial or industrial in nature
Confidentiality is provided by law
The confidentiality is protecting a legitimate economic interest
The confidentiality would be adversely affected by disclosure.
I consider that the information relates to the commercial activity of a third party. I also consider that confidentiality is provided by law in that it is imposed on the Council as a public authority by the common law of confidence and contractual obligation. I consider that the confidentiality is protecting a legitimate economic interest. The First Tier Tribunal (Information Rights) confirmed in Elmbridge Borough Council v. Information Commissioner and Gladedale Group Ltd (EA/2010/0106, 4 January 2011) that to satisfy this element of the test, disclosure of the confidential information would have to adversely affect a legitimate economic interest of the person the confidentiality is designed to protect. I consider that disclosure of the requested information would adversely affect the legitimate economic interest of the third party and also that of the Council.
This exception is subject to the public interest test.
Public interest factors in favour of disclosure
Promotion of transparency and accountability of public authorities
Public interest factors in maintaining the exception
Disclosure would adversely affect the legitimate economic interest of a third party and interfere with commercial bargaining in the context of existing or future negotiations
Disclosure of the requested information would also affect the bargaining position of the Council with third parties.
I consider that in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exception outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. I am therefore refusing your request for information on the basis that the exception contained in Regulation 12 (5) (e) of the EIR applies.”
On the 25th March 2015 I appealed Wirral Council’s refusal to the Information Commissioner’s Office.
Today Wirral Council reversed their position and stated:
“Following your complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office, the Council has decided to reverse its position, having previously relied on the exception contained in Regulation 12 (5) (e) of the Environmental Information Regulations 2004. I do not consider that releasing the information would now adversely affect the legitimate economic interest of a third party. The address of the property, which you have requested is 13 Thorneycroft Street, Birkenhead. I have copied this response to the Information Commissioner’s Office.”
Now I know the address is 13 Thorneycroft Street, Birkenhead, I know what this payment for conveyancing is for. The properties in this road as far as I remember had been demolished by the date that this payment to DLA Piper UK LLP for conveyancing happened in August 2013.
In August 2013, Keepmoat were granted planning permission for 125 new houses here and have since built them and sold them on. In fact 13 Thorneycroft Street, Birkenhead doesn’t exist any more, it’s either part of the public open space at the back of the Laird Street Baptist Church or an off-street car parking space for one of the new properties.
So what was the “legitimate interest of a third party” that Wirral Council claimed it was protecting by not supplying the address? How on earth does giving this address interfere with Wirral Council’s “commercial bargaining in the context of existing or future negotiations”?
Cllr Jean Stapleton tells Conservatives to “get their priorities right for humanity’s sake” on fire station merger
Cllr Jean Stapleton tells Conservatives to “get their priorities right for humanity’s sake” on fire station merger
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Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority meeting of 29th January 2015 (agenda item 5 West Wirral Operational Response Considerations (Post Consultation))
Councillor Jean Stapleton speaking at the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority meeting of 29th January 2015 about opposition to a proposed fire station at Saughall Massie
CLLR JEAN STAPLETON (Lead Member for Finance, Assets and Efficiencies) representing Wirral Council: I would definitely go with the Chief’s recommendation and I concur with Councillor Rennie but I would suggest also Lesley you might have a word with your colleagues in West Wirral because there’s an opportunity for them here to show some political leadership in the community to help them, I hate to say but get their priorities right for humanity’s sake! Continue reading “Cllr Jean Stapleton tells Conservatives to "get their priorities right for humanity's sake" on fire station merger”
EXCLUSIVE: 155 invoices paid by Wirral Council in 2013/14 for legal services, external audit, physiotherapy and psychological assessments
EXCLUSIVE: 155 invoices paid by Wirral Council in 2013/14 for legal services, external audit, physiotherapy and psychological assessments
Below are 155 of the invoices I requested during the 2013/14 audit. They range from invoices to the Council’s external auditor Grant Thornton UK LLP, criminal work, a couple of judicial reviews, appealing an ICO decision notice to the First Tier Tribunal (Information Rights) as well as a lot of times Wirral Council have taken parents to court about their children. Some of these invoices I’ve previously written about on this blog, such as about the invoice about appealing the ICO decision notice. Turns out now I look at it more carefully there was a further invoice for £1,008 from February 2014 in that matter too.
Some of the others I’ve already on the blog as I received them in August 2014. However I didn’t publish them in August because I’ve had to go through a process of blacking out all the names (and partial names) of children and parents.
Added in green to many invoices are the representative (where known) from the list of payments in 2013/14 greater than £500. I’ve also added back in (on some) text which has been obscured by information blacked out on double-sided pages and bled through.
There is an index to all 155 invoices that can be downloaded here. I’ve tried to use the following file format when naming each file “Wirral Council invoice” followed by representative/organisation, amount, date, page number where there are multiple pages for the same invoice followed by invoice number.
Invoices 73 & 74 aren’t published here as they were cancelled and replaced by invoices 75 & 76. There is another batch of invoices I have yet to scan in, which is a mix of invoices for legal services and other general invoices. Below you should find all 155 invoices.
Wirral Council invoice Capita Health and Wellbeing Limited £520 Page 1 of 3 18th March 2013 1Wirral Council invoice Capita Health and Wellbeing Limited £520 Page 2 of 3 18th March 2013 1Wirral Council invoice Capita Health and Wellbeing Limited £520 Page 3 of 3 18th March 2013 1Wirral Council invoice The Lucy Faithfull Foundation £699.31 28th March 2013 2Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings £10,344 page 1 of 2 15th March 2013 3
Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings £1,320 18th March 2013 6
Wirral Council invoice Forepsych Limited psychological assessment report £688.35 3rd February 2013 11Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings £576 2nd April 2013 12Wirral Council invoice Remy Zentar St Johns Buildings £1,800 27th March 2013 13Wirral Council invoice Sharpe Pritchard £25,698 31st March 2013 Page 1 of 2 14Wirral Council invoice Sharpe Pritchard £25,698 31st March 2013 Page 2 of 2 14Wirral Council invoice Gail A Owen St Johns Buildings £2,928 9th April 2013 15Wirral Council invoice Nicola Miles 7 Harrington St Chambers £2,130 9th April 2013 16Wirral Council invoice Kate Burnell St Johns Buildings 9th April 2013 £792 17Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 11th April 2013 £864 18Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 16th April 2013 £720 19Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 16th April 2013 £1,032 20Wirral Council invoice Dr Jennifer Ashcroft JJ Ashcroft Clinical Psychology Services Ltd 7th April 2013 £900.75 21Wirral Council invoice Gail A Owen St Johns Buildings 26th April 2013 £591.36 22Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 20th April 2013 £600 23Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Bellamy St Johns Buildings 25th April 2013 £511.68 24Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Buildings 26th April 2013 £528 25Wirral Council invoice Tim D N Kenward 7 Harrington St Chambers 19th April 2013 Page 1 of 2 £900 26Wirral Council invoice Tim D N Kenward 7 Harrington St Chambers 19th April 2013 Page 2 of 2 £900 26Wirral Council invoice Remy Zentar St Johns Buildings 23rd April 2013 £936 27Wirral Council invoice Susan Edwards St Johns Buildings 2nd May 2013 £672 28Wirral Council invoice DMM Psychology Ltd 8th March 2013 £1660.80 29Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Buildings 8th May 2013 £823.68 30Wirral Council invoice Rebecca Smith St Johns Buildings 8th May 2013 £720 31Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 9th May 2013 £1200 32Wirral Council invoice Rebecca Smith St Johns Buildings 9th May 2013 £720 33Wirral Council invoice Benjamin Lawrence St Johns Buildings 13th May 2013 £787.50 34Wirral Council invoice Advanced Childcare Assessments Limited 30th April 2013 £2,641.20 35Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 15th May 2013 Page 1 of 2 £528 36Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 15th May 2013 Page 2 of 2 £528 36Wirral Council invoice Louis Browne Exchange Chambers 15th May 2013 £3445.74 37Wirral Council invoice Claire Grundy St Johns Buildings 14th May 2013 £1800 38Wirral Council invoice Sharpe Pritchard 17th May 2013 £640 39Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Building 17th May 2013 £1200 40Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Building 17th May 2013 £528 41Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Building 21st May 2013 £576 42Wirral Council invoice Cerys Williams St Johns Building 22nd May 2013 £2454.72 43Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Building 24th May 2013 £768 44Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Building 28th May 2013 £811.29 Page 1 of 2 45Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Building 28th May 2013 £811.29 Page 2 of 2 45Wirral Council invoice Simon Maddison St Johns Building 23rd May 2013 £1260 46Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Buildings 31st May 2013 £607.48 47Wirral Council invoice Document Technology Limited 10th May 2013 £569.58 48Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 4th June 2013 £849.60 49Wirral Council invoice Susan Edwards St Johns Buildings 10th June 2013 £993.60 50Wirral Council invoice Ginette Fitzharris St Johns Buildings 11th June 2013 £799.68 51Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 13th June 2013 £2,208.96 52Wirral Council invoice Grant Thornton UK LLP 14th June 2013 £63,504 53Wirral Council invoice Catherine Rimmer St Johns Buildings 17th June 2013 £504 54Wirral Council invoice Stephen J Bedford St Johns Buildings 17th June 2013 £1,584 55Wirral Council invoice Stephen J Bedford St Johns Buildings 19th June 2013 £1,584 56Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 25th June 2013 £552 57Wirral Council invoice The Association of Electoral Administration 14th May 2013 £3,556.25 58Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 1st July 2013 £960 59Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 1st July 2013 £4,910.40 Page 1 of 2 60Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 1st July 2013 £4,910.40 Page 2 of 2 60Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Buildings 1st July 2013 £523.20 61Wirral Council invoice Tim D N Kenward 7 Harrington St Chambers 19th June 2013 Page 1 of 2 £3,660 62Wirral Council invoice Tim D N Kenward 7 Harrington St Chambers 19th June 2013 Page 2 of 2 £3,660 62Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 3rd July 2013 £849.60 63Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 28th May 2013 £3,264 Page 1 of 2 64Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 28th May 2013 £3,264 Page 2 of 2 64Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 12th July 2013 65 £1,440 65Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 12th July 2013 £552 66Wirral Council invoice Gaynor Lloyd St Johns Buildings 12th July 2013 £1822.08 67Wirral Council invoice Sharpe Pritchard 18th July 2013 £10,080 68Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 25th July 2013 £696 69Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 25th July 2013 page 1 of 2 £7344 70Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 25th July 2013 page 2 of 2 £7344 70Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Manning Arden Chambers 26th July 2013 £1,800 71Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Manning Arden Chambers 26th July 2013 £1,800 72Wirral Council invoice Helen Roberts Forensic Clinical Psychologist 1st August 2013 £821.10 75Wirral Council invoice Helen Roberts Forensic Clinical Psychologist 1st August 2013 £590.50 76Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 7th August 2013 £1392 77Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Buildings 5th August 2013 £639.36 78Wirral Council invoice Gaynor Lloyd St Johns Buildings 12th August 2013 £1822.08 79Wirral Council invoice Helen Wilson St Johns Buildings 12th August 2013 £2016 80Wirral Council invoice Ginette Fitzharris St Johns Buildings 19th August 2013 £528 81Wirral Council invoice Ginette Fitzharris St Johns Buildings 15th August 2013 £511.68 82Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 22nd August 2013 £864 83Wirral Council invoice Helen Wilson St Johns Buildings 21st August 2013 £703.68 84Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 4th September 2013 £576 85Wirral Council invoice Grant Thornton UK LLP 12th September 2013 £63504 86Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 11th September 2013 £687.36 87Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 11th September 2013 £1992 88Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 16th September 2013 Page 1 of 2 £1296 89Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 16th September 2013 Page 2 of 2 £1296 89Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 16th September 2013 £1230.72 90Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 17th September 2013 £655.68 91Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 25th September 2013 £561.60 92Wirral Council invoice Paul Burns Exchange Chambers 23rd September 2013 £930 93Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 30th September 2013 £720 94Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 2nd October 2013 £912 95Wirral Council invoice Benjamin William Jones St Johns Buildings 1st October 2013 £900 96Wirral Council invoice Ginette Fitzharris St Johns Buildings 7th October 2013 £511.68 97Wirral Council invoice Kate Burnell St Johns Buildings 10th October 2013 £1248 98Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 14th October 2013 £720 99Wirral Council invoice Cater Walsh Media Services Ltd 25th October 2013 £528 100Wirral Council invoice Sara A Mann St Johns Buildings 21st October 2013 £831.36 101Wirral Council invoice Ginette Fitzharris St Johns Buildings 21st October 2013 £576 102Wirral Council invoice Ginette Fitzharris St Johns Buildings 21st October 2013 £753.60 103Wirral Council invoice Helen Wilson St Johns Buildings 30th October 2013 £3235.20 104Wirral Council invoice Kate Burnell St Johns Buildings 30th October 2013 £1113.60 105Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 31st October 2013 £1128 106Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 30th October 2013 £528 107Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 1st November 2013 £864 108Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 11th November 2013 £993.60 109Wirral Council invoice Susan Edwards St Johns Buildings 8th November 2013 £591.36 110Wirral Council invoice David V Glasgow 30th October 2013 £740.37 111Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 13th November 2013 £576 112Wirral Council invoice Helen Wilson St Johns Buildings 18th November 2013 £753.60 113Wirral Council invoice Christine Johnson Atlantic Chambers 22nd November 2013 £2940 114Wirral Council invoice Paul Burns Exchange Chambers 22nd November 2013 Page 1 of 2 £4210 115Wirral Council invoice Paul Burns Exchange Chambers 22nd November 2013 Page 2 of 2 £4210 115Wirral Council invoice Susan Edwards St Johns Buildings 25th November 2013 £696 116Wirral Council invoice Robin Hopkins kbw 12th November 2013 £1872 117Wirral Council invoice Wilkin Chapman LLP 16th October 2013 £1598.40 118Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 21st November 2013 £576 119Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 26th November 2013 £1272 120Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 11th December 2013 Page 1 of 2 £3473.28 121Wirral Council invoice Jonathan Taylor St Johns Buildings 11th December 2013 Page 2 of 2 £3473.28 121Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 3rd December 2013 £2399.04 122Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 4th December 2013 £672 123Wirral Council invoice Susan Edwards St Johns Buildings 27th November 2013 £504 124Wirral Council invoice Grant Thornton UK LLP 12th December 2013 £51120 125Wirral Council invoice Ruth Stockley Kings Chambers 19th November 2013 £607.50 126Wirral Council invoice Cerys Williams St Johns Buildings 7th January 2014 £528 127Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 8th January 2014 Page 1 of 3 £5096.64 128Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 8th January 2014 Page 2 of 3 £5096.64 128Wirral Council invoice Jennifer Lesley Scully St Johns Buildings 8th January 2014 Page 3 of 3 £5096.64 128Wirral Council invoice Nigel Lawrence 7 Harrington Street Chambers 11th December 2013 £27185.90 129Wirral Council invoice Tim D N Kenward 7 Harrington Street Chambers 7th January 2014 £2220 130Wirral Council invoice Grant Thornton UK LLP 11th December 2013 £63504 131Wirral Council invoice Damien Sanders St Johns Buildings 15th January 2014 £600 132Wirral Council invoice Leona Harrison St Johns Buildings 15th January 2014 £1536 133Wirral Council invoice Michael J Kennedy St Johns Buildings 15th January 2014 £672 134Wirral Council invoice Catherine Rimmer St Johns Buildings 20th January 2014 £720 135Wirral Council invoice Helen Wilson St Johns Buildings 21st January 2014 £912 136Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 17th January 2014 £951.36 137Wirral Council invoice James Gatenby St Johns Buildings 20th January 2014 £607.68 138Wirral Council invoice Helen Wilson St Johns Buildings 23rd January 2014 £816 139Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 23rd January 2014 £696 140Wirral Council invoice Anthony Gill Kings Chambers 28th January 2014 £1860 141Wirral Council invoice Sweet & Maxwell Ltd 2nd January 2014 £1041.60 142Wirral Council invoice Andrew Haggis St Johns Buildings 14th February 2014 £720 143Wirral Council invoice Kate Burnell St Johns Buildings 18th February 2014 £511.68 144Wirral Council invoice Peta M L Harrison St Johns Buildings 18th February 2014 £888 145Wirral Council invoice Weightmans LLP 25th February 2014 £1360.80 146Wirral Council invoice Damien Sanders St Johns Buildings 26th February 2014 £528 147Wirral Council invoice Paul Burns Exchange Chambers 19th February 2014 Page 1 of 3 £1120 148Wirral Council invoice Paul Burns Exchange Chambers 19th February 2014 Page 2 of 3 £1120 148Wirral Council invoice Paul Burns Exchange Chambers 19th February 2014 Page 3 of 3 £1120 148Wirral Council invoice Robin Hopkins KBW 10th February 2014 £1008 149Wirral Council invoice Joanne Jade Abraham St Johns Buildings 5th March 2014 £543.36 150Wirral Council invoice Weightmans LLP 30th January 2014 £4982.40 151Wirral Council invoice Lexis Nexis Butterworths 3rd March 2014 £1659 152Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 10th March 2014 £528 153Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 10th March 2014 £600 154Wirral Council invoice Sharpe Pritchard 31st January 2014 £6468 155Wirral Council invoice Cerys Williams St Johns Buildings 13th March 2014 £816 156Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 18th March 2014 Page 1 of 2 £1296 157Wirral Council invoice Mark Senior St Johns Buildings 18th March 2014 Page 2 of 2 £1296 157
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