Page 8 - AOSERA SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2023

ESTATE SOAKAWAYS REMINDER
Residents should be aware that the Estate does not have drains for taking away surface water. With the recent heavy downfalls it has been more apparent that certain roads are showing signs of flooding. Our contractors carry out regular maintenance on the soakaways clearing leaves and emptying the sumps. We would ask that if you are observe areas of extensive flooding that you take photos and send to the office. This will give the Board the opportunity of assessing and monitoring the situation.
GARDENING UPDATE
Whilst the Board has always maintained it will help those who become unable to do so, we do ask those who can to help keep the Estate looking nice to reduce the work undertaken by our gardening contractors.
Since the previous financial year, their rates have increased by 10%, the first increase for three years which was expected. We still believe we receive very competitive rates and as such have no immediate requirement to review the contract. However, at some point we may have to look at their weekly tasks and
what is achievable to keep on top of their growing workload.
If your neighbour is struggling to maintain their verge and if you are able to, perhaps you could consider helping with cutting their verge or some weeding. Not only is this neighbourly but also helps to maintain the Estate in a manner we all appreciate whilst keeping the costs down.
The Board has considered setting up a small group of volunteers who may be interested in helping others; if this is of interest to you, please contact the office who will put you in touch with one of the Directors for a chat.
Property owners are reminded to ensure that any skips used for building work should be placed on owners’ property wherever possible, in preference to roads and verges. If placing a skip
on estate roads is the only option, this must have the board’s approval prior to any work undertaken. Owners must ensure skips have lights and any resulting damage to roads will be reinstated by the member.
Newsletter Summer 2023
page 8