Present: David Meade (Chair), Steve Weiss (Innogy), Justin Bettey (Dartford Borough Council), Barbara Judge (United Nations Association), Sharon Aktins (Technical Officer DBC)

1) Apologies for Absence: John Prance.

2) Notes from the Previous Meeting: These were agreed.

3) Matters arising from the Notes:

Residents welcome pack: JB has contacted JG who will be forwarding the latest information on the resident packs. JB informed the group that the Borough Council is considering production of a "Community Pack". There is no confirmation that this will go ahead, but JB has already stated to the Council that Environmental/QED information should be included.

QED leaflet on Composting: JB has distributed leaflets to local DIY stores and Garden Centres.

4) Environment Monitoring/Quality Indicators:

Air Quality: Sharon Aktins was present at the meeting to introduce herself to the group and to also answer questions with regards the Stage 3 Air Quality Report. The group and SA covered most areas of the report including monitoring techniques, collection methods, calibration, consultation, mitigation possibilities and data presentation.

Contaminated Land: SA also answered questions with regards to the Contaminated Land Strategy. DM will be responding to the Strategy with comments. The group thanked SA for attending the meeting and giving answers to questions.

Bi-annual Environmental Reports: JB explained to the group that there will be no further bi-annual environmental reports as the information reported in them is being reported and conveyed within existing documents, including the LA21 Strategy, Contaminated Land Strategy, Air Quality Strategies and the Local Plan. JB also explained that the resources of the Scientific Officer were limited and that the bi-annual report can cause duplication of work.

5) Dartford Festival:

It was decided that the project that is best suited for the Festival is a "Whatís In Your Bin" demonstration. This would involve a cutaway wheely bin with a Perspex liner over the front. This bin would be filled with layers of waste which are representational of the waste generated by the average householder. Next to each type of waste will be a description of what happens to that waste i.e goes to landfill, is recycled etc. JB informed the group that KCC via a supplier would be providing a composting bin with related literature for the Festival. JB will be arranging this. JB will be arranging a special Festival meeting on either the 22nd or 24th of May to plan the necessary arrangements. He will confirm by phone this week.

Grey water" developer: JB has managed to get hold of diagrams detailing the Grey water Process and will forward these to DM & SW. It maybe possible to use these at the Festival and this will be discusses at the Festival meeting.

6) Planning Applications:

DM raised one planning application, which JB was to investigate:

01/00320/REM. This was reference to Pit 10 landfill site. The application stated that the Local Authority requires analysis of the sub-soil to be used on the site prior to landscaping. This consent will act as a precaution to prevent contaminated soil being used on site.

7) Any Other Business

Waste Management: The group requested that they would appreciate John Prance updating them on the status of "Alternate Weekly Waste Collections", and also the position on recycling of materials such as textiles and plastics within the Borough.

Fly Tipping: SW stated that he has noticed an increase in fly tipping within the Borough over the last two months. He wondered if there was any particular reason for this.

8) Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 27th June 2001at the Civic Centre to commence at 7.00pm.

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