Code of Conduct - Living on the Summerley Private Estate
We do not make rules on the Summerley Private Estate. We are all bound by various Covenants on our houses, some of which are common to all and some of which vary. But that’s just about the extent of what is legally enforceable. However it is a friendly, neighbourly estate and this note sets out the guidelines to happy, communal living that have successfully evolved over the years. SPERA keeps it up to date by reviewing it, and reaffirming support for it, at every AGM and issuing it to all new residents as part of the welcome pack.
Parking
The Covenants concerning roads make it clear that residents may not obstruct the roads in any way. Parking can cause problems for neighbours and therefore we try for no parking on the roads anywhere, ever. This avoids congestion where the roads are narrow. More important it allows us to spot the non-residents’ cars that we want to ban. And it’s a simple rule. If you find that you are unable to comply - for example if you have more visitors than can park on your driveway and you cannot make alternative arrangements – please keep neighbours informed by putting a note in the car and, if appropriate, inform the gateman.
Security and residents’ car stickers
The main role of gate security is to deter non-residents from entering the estate and parking for beach access. This is far from easy and residents can help by displaying a SPERA sticker in their cars.
Speed
It is pretty unanimous year after year that residents want a 20 mph limit on the estate roads. The roads are often narrow and travelling too fast is dangerous. People feel strongly about this and the car numbers of persistent offenders will be taken and reported to the SPERA committee who will decide what action may be appropriate.
Pedestrians
As footways are limited on the estate, pedestrians have to use the roads so, motorists, please give them all the courtesy you would expect if you were walking. The estate can be quite dark at night so pedestrians are urged to use a torch if they are unsure of the road.
Verges
Each resident is responsible for maintaining the verges outside his or her house. The minimum is to keep the grass cut, the hedge trimmed and weeds down. There is no maximum – we all benefit from your beautifying. The only limit is to be considerate with trees – what will the roots do, what shade will they create etc?
Surface water drainage is poor on this estate. We are therefore cautious in allowing more kerbs on the estate roads – since they can exacerbate the puddling - unless adequate provision is made for drainage. Any works on the roads will need authorisation from SPERA and the written agreement of L E Walwin & Partners (LEWP).
Décor, state of repair of the houses
A tricky one this. Poorly maintained houses detract severely from the attractiveness of the estate and from all of our property values. On the other hand, an Englishman’s home is his castle. How do we get the right balance? We do not (as yet) have any formal procedures – residents should simply be aware that their neighbours care.
Dogs
This is a dog-friendly estate. Dogs are allowed on the beaches here. If you own a dog there are obvious things. Clearing up faeces is the owner’s responsibility and dog bins are provided on the sea front. Please keep your dog out of other people’s gardens. When walking your dog on the estate please keep it on a lead.
Boats, launch ramps and such
This is a marine estate. Boat-friendly. By agreement with LEWP, residents who want a key to the launch ramps (two ramps, same key) can obtain one from the SPERA Committee member in charge. There is a deposit to be paid and an agreement to be signed. But not everyone has a boat and they can be a nuisance. Please use the launch ramps responsibly – for example don’t block the roads or leave equipment at the ramp while you are boating. And please don’t keep an unsightly boat outside the house.
Vans, caravans and business use of premises
Another tricky one. Vans and caravans parked in view outside houses can be offensive. Frequent deliveries of goods by truck, the same. On the other hand some residents use vans either commercially or privately. In general, be aware of the impact on the neighbourhood of what you do and try not to let it be a nuisance. In particular:-
Caravans are unpopular. The Covenants clearly state that caravans are not permitted on the estate.
Vans are no more popular although they are not specifically banned. But, out of sight out of mind - parking behind a fence, hedge or other screen helps.
Business use of premises is banned both by the Covenants and by local council planning regulations. Action will be taken, and has been taken in the past, against obvious offenders.
The relationship with L E Walwin & Partners
Summerley Private Estate is a bit unusual in that the residents do not own the common parts of the estate. This can sometimes lead to confusion as to who does what (or who can do what). We have discussed this with Jacqui Shilton of LEWP and we are pleased to include below her explanation of the issues.
Live and let live
And finally – the general good neighbours rule. This IS a friendly estate. People here tend to be pretty outgoing and live life fully. And good luck to us. But we all must be aware of how we impact on our neighbours. Common sense really – keep intrusive noise down, don’t let barbecue or bonfire smoke be a nuisance, tell neighbours when you’re doing anything odd like partying late. And if your neighbour is being a nuisance then don’t suffer in silence – tell him or her (politely of course). By the same token, if your neighbour complains, don’t get cross, just discuss the issues and amend your behaviour if required. Jaw-jaw is better than war-war.
SPERA Committee
23 March 2006
Jacqui Shilton of LEWP
SPERA’s guidelines “Living on the Summerley Private Estate” are very helpful in clarifying issues affecting residents. I am pleased to be able to contribute an explanation of LEWP’s role in respect of the Estate.
LEWP have legal title to the common areas, notably the roads. LEWP are required to carry out the maintenance of the roads and common areas and the residents have to pay for this. By buying a house on the estate a houseowner has agreed to his or her share of these costs.
Some years ago it was agreed that SPERA should be formed to take on the task of organising road maintenance and duties regarding the Estate for LEWP. SPERA collects an annual membership fee (which includes the maintenance charges) and carries out the works. There is an agreement with LEWP giving SPERA the authority to do this. Non paying residents have been taken to court in the past and ordered to pay their share of the maintenance charges.
LEWP have agreed also to consider any reasonable request from SPERA to enforce compliance with residents’ obligations under their Covenants provided that the cost of any enforcement is borne by the residents.
Access to the beach
Access to the beach is across land owned by LEWP. Access is controlled by LEWP and the use of the ramps by residents does not confer a right of way from LEWP. The use of the ramp keys will be available most times of the year from SPERA with the agreement of LEWP. Ramp access may be closed by LEWP on certain days.
Building and development
The Covenants on each property also concern amongst other things the question of further development of a site. SPERA does not have any remit to involve itself in this and requests in these matters should be made to LEWP direct.
Jacqui Shilton
L E Walwin & Partners
01243 583888