The South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee met on Thursday 11 June 2026, appointing Councillor Lorraine Dunstan as Chair and Councillor Griseldis Kirsch as Vice-Chair for the 2026/27 municipal year. The committee also approved several traffic management orders to introduce double yellow lines and school keep clear markings in various locations, and a community grant of £3,000 to New Era Community Projects CIC for their Reach for the Sky initiative.

Appointment of Chair and Vice-Chair

Councillor Lorraine Dunstan was appointed Chair and Councillor Griseldis Kirsch was appointed Vice-Chair of the South of the Borough Neighbourhood Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year.

Objections to Double Yellow Lines and Parking Restrictions

The committee considered objections to proposed traffic management orders across several locations.

• Elmcroft Drive: Double yellow lines were approved for the bend of Elmcroft Drive to improve road safety and visibility, despite some resident objections citing a lack of demonstrated need and potential impact on parking. The committee decided to set aside these objections.
• Bridge Road junction with Leatherhead Road: This item was deferred to the next meeting due to issues with the proposed length of the restrictions.
• Compton Crescent: Double yellow lines were approved for proposed locations along Compton Crescent. While some residents objected due to the loss of parking, the committee prioritised safety concerns, particularly regarding access for emergency vehicles, and set aside the objections. Councillor Andreas Kirsch noted that emergency services had previously experienced difficulties accessing the area due to parking.
• Marston Avenue: This item was withdrawn as objections were upheld due to a consultation error. A new report is expected in September.
• Knollmead: An amended proposal for Knollmead was approved, which includes double yellow lines and school keep clear markings. The original proposal for double yellow lines on both sides of the road was modified to include single yellow lines on one side, restricted to school drop-off and collection times (8:30-9:30 am and 2:30-3:30 pm), and the erection of two no idling signs. This amendment was made following consultation with residents and the management of the community centre, addressing concerns about parking loss and access for allotments and disabled visitors.

Community Grant Application

A Neighbourhood Community Grant of £3,000 was approved for New Era Community Projects CIC to support their Reach for the Sky project. This project aims to provide inclusive physical activity and well-being sessions for young carers aged 5-12 and their families in the south of the borough. The funding will help cover hall hire, activity staff, equipment, refreshments, and volunteer support.

Neighbourhood Working Arrangements 2026-2030

The committee resolved not to establish a Planning Sub-Committee for the 2026-30 municipal term, opting to deal with planning applications within the main committee meetings. A guillotine of 10:30 pm was agreed to be applied to all future meetings, with the ability for the committee to waive this deadline if necessary.

Councillor Ward Funding (CWF)

The committee agreed to continue with the existing arrangement for Councillor Ward Funding for the Municipal Year 2026/27, allowing individual councillors to allocate up to £2,000 of CWF for local projects within their wards.

Neighbourhood Manager's Report

Richard Dean, the Neighbourhood Manager, provided his final report before retirement. He highlighted the success of the recent Celebrate Chessington event and appealed for volunteers to assist with planning next year's event. He also drew attention to a public event organised by UK Power Networks regarding upcoming works.

Urgent Items

No urgent items were brought before the committee.

Works Programme

The committee noted the Work Programme for the next quarter.

Thanks to Richard Dean

The committee, along with representatives from the Chessington District Residents Association (CDRA), expressed their gratitude to Richard Dean for his support and dedication during his tenure as Neighbourhood Manager, wishing him a happy retirement.