Present: Mr Boyce, P Simmons (Oast House), Jean Armour (Ss. Peter and Paul), Muriel Krief (Ss. Peter and Paul), Rosa Halls (Oast House), Ellen Bull (Oast House), Peter Defty (Swanscombe and Greenhithe Town Council), Mike Pratt and Alan Cremer (DBC).

In the absence of Pat Martin Mr Boyce took the chair.

1. Apologies for Absence: Pat Martin.

2. Notes from the Previous Meeting: No business was transacted at the previous meeting.

3. Health Action: Mike Pratt reported on the West Kent Health Authority Health Initiative. Health Action North Kent has selected five areas in which to create Health Action Teams. Dartford is trying to bring together the various Agencies to look at health issues. Temple Hill is trying to build a Community Centre which will replace the current church. Special problems exist in Northfleet East and West, and Swanscombe and Greenhithe which face massive new development. There is a fear that the existing population may become swamped and alienated. Special needs have been identified for the elderly who lack many services, and children and young people. A number of one-parent families have financial problems, and further health problems are caused by lack of access to transport, good food and health facilities. The group in Swanscombe and Greenhithe is chaired by Dr Alistair Thompson who also chairs the GP's committee. It is hoped that the Swanscombe and Greenhithe QED group may be able to assist by disseminating information and involving the community. Although an application for funding from the New Opportunities Budget has been refused 1.1 million pounds has been awarded from the Single Regeneration Budget. There is a plan to bring in 5 community workers of whom two will be working in Swanscombe and Greenhithe on community building. Everyone's help is required to inform as many people as possible about the Health Action Team, and to try to discover problems and deficiencies.

4. Work Programme: There was discussion concerning the mini roundabout at the bottom of Keary Road which is creating many problems. Among the most serious of these is the problem caused by the apparent moving of the chequered lines on the approach to the roundabout which has created a visibility problem with regard to approaching traffic. Mike Pratt will draft a letter for Pat Martin to be sent to Highways.

Other issues raised were those of residents not using rear access parking when it is available, and a very strong plea that Swanscombe Street should be made one way from West to East.

5. Next Edition of the Newsletter: It was agreed that the next edition of the Newsletter should be available early in 2000. It was agreed that the usual contributors be approached for articles for publication. Other suggestions for the Newsletter included soliciting opinions about the siting of new trees, requests to residents to park off-road to reduce congestion, publicity for the new fitness gym and other events occurring in the first quarter of 2000. The organisation of distribution should be started.

6. News from the Steering Group Meeting: Mike Pratt reported that heavy equipment for horticultural use, together with the necessary safety requirements, will be available to groups soon.

It was agreed that the group will once more make contact with Swan Valley Community School. The offer by Mr Ogg to host a tour of the school will be re-visited.

7. Dates of Meetings in 2000: This was agreed as January 17th 2000. Pat Martin will be consulted with regard to the dates of meetings for the rest of the year.

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