Prior to the start of the meeting members new and old where issued with the new membership cards it was nice to see the large number of people who attended especial the numerous new faces who are very welcome.

The meeting began with a short run through of the inspectors report on the refusal of ‘Crossag Farm Development’ by our treasurer Mr David Allesbrook the discussion was then thrown open to the floor by our Chairman Mrs Gill Roy, the general consensus was approval with the findings, especial on the question of a need for a by-pass, new school and recreation areas before the building of new houses, members where also concerned that although a lot had been said by government about first time buyers and public sector houses, the fact that the plan included 90 large private dwellings to be built first seemed to have been avoided by government. Therefore satisfying the needs of the developer first.
This discussion led on to the up coming ‘Area Plan’ and a small number of members pointed out that they already received their leaflets today, it was pointed out that there was already the 7/91 southern sector plan which Government seem to treat as not relevant, members were advised to take this opportunity to put forward there views on the new plan, it was put forward that there was also a need for a ‘Village Plan’ which appears to be being resisted by Government, one member pointed out that there is in fact no defined boundaries for Ballasalla village.

The meeting then moved on to the Select Committee looking into planning, this involves the development at ‘Poachers Pocket’ we were informed about the situation by Graham Cregeen MHK for Malew and Santon who promoted the inquiry through Tynwald. On the subject of the ‘Poachers Pocket’ much concern was stated about the destruction of some 40+ large trees on the site, the last having been removed on Boxing Day 2007. It was also stated that this would not be the last as due to earth movement a number of others have died or will be dead in the near future, a concern in the lack of action by the Forestry department and others was expressed all members.

The introduction of our now operating website www.badra.org was welcomed and after a few words by Mr Eddie Power on its operation and a request for suggestions via email on the website or personally.

It was also put forward that we are to produce a bi-yearly BADRA periodical, and that articles, stories, and advertising is welcomed.

The meeting moved to other business.
Mr Colin Jackson informed members that he will be doing an inspection of footpaths around the area as they are in a very poor condition and would welcome any information members are aware of, it was also pointed out that a number of public hedges are also in an untidy and in some places obstructing the pavements and highways.

Finally the introduction of a Dentist in the village was welcomed, but some concern was expressed as to weither after his 18-month NHS contract expires weither it would be continued, it was the hope of all that it would.

The meeting closed after two and half hours of help full and lively discussion, and many thanks to all who attended and welcome to the new members.

The next meeting will be announced on the website and in the local shops and press.