Present: Richard Masterman (Chair), Sue Jones, Wendy Gunter (Treasurer), Martin Pasek, Mike Powell, Lewis Evans, Gordon Goldsmith
Apologies: Rob Loxton
Previous Minutes:
Meeting date 5th December 2023: Previously approved.
Actions from previous meeting
Items to be addressed as the agenda.
Chair Report
Items to be addressed as the agenda.
Site Representative
- Council.
- Some confusion had arisen over duplicate tenancy bills issued by the Council who had subsequently apologised for the error. Only one should have been issued.
However, plot holders are reminded that if they have not received a bill from the Council for the 2024, then they should notify the Council to avoid possible complications regarding non-payment of rent. This situation might arise with a change of address, for instance. Sue stated that she was aware of six plot holders who haven’t yet received their invoice.
- Disappointingly, despite email and voicemail messages to the Allotment Officer no replies have been forthcoming regarding several important issues.
- PPAA
As agenda
Treasurer’s report
- Wendy reported that the £5.00 PPAA annual subscription had been received from some plot holders and requested all bank transfers be labelled with the plot holder’s name, plot number and “subs.” A reminder notice has been published on the website.
Site Security
- Richard has forwarded to the Allotment Officer contractor Risk Assessment and site services drawings regarding extra security measures for the south gate (polytunnel). No response has been received and it was noted that a previous email had given approval so work will now be implemented.
- The contractor will be asked for a proposal to modify the key access for the egress side of the north gate (Western Ave) to improve usability and to supply a new handle for the 4-wheel trolley. Richard to discuss with the contractor.
- A wildlife camera has been trialled near the polytunnel and various images were viewed including a persistent fox and multiple squirrel/wood pigeon. Day and night picture quality was considered acceptable and it was agreed to continue with a few adjustments, principally to focus the camera on the south gate and to find a more secure location.
- A second camera will be procured for the north gate.
Plot Inspections
- No response has been received from the Council regarding the plot termination referrals. Richard to enquire if the Council have taken any action.
Plot Vacancies, letting and structure applications.
- Sue reported that there are currently four vacant plots but the waiting list from the Council is out of date.
Poly tunnel allocations 2024
- 6 grow beds will become available in February 2024. Plot holders who are interested in entering the draw for a bed must apply via the allotment Gmail by the end of January. Outgoing occupants need to be clear by the end of January.
- Those interested should contact PPAA Committee
- The woodwork for the 6 original beds is in poor state. Sue to investigate rebuilding.
- Dan Phillips has agreed to continue to coordinate the polytunnel group.
Shop
- Seed potatoes have been ordered. A notice will be posted on the site notice boards and website giving details and inviting expressions of interest from plot holders.
Any Other Business
- It was noted that the Community Gardens run by Grow Cardiff are investigating a partnership with Cardiff Salad Garden to assist with scheme management. Both parties are developing a joint plan in conjunction with the Council which will be shared with the Committee in due course. The Committee have requested procedural guidance from the Council.
- The 2024 AGM will be scheduled for April/May dependant on formalisation of PPAA accounts.
- Richard to contact Dan Phillips to ask if he is interested in coordinating a plant sale as he did for 2023.
Date of next meeting
19:00 Tuesday 6th February 2024 at Butcher’s Arms Canton.
