Council Meeting – 8th January 2014

MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
HELD ON 8^TH JANUARY 2014
GREAT LONGSTONE VILLAGE HALL AT 7.30PM

Present: Cllr Wendy Long, Cllr Hugh Wright, Cllr James Cox, Cllr Peter Thompson, Sarah Stokes (Clerk), UTE and 3 parishioners.

Public comments.

Resident 1. Commented on the poor state of the bus shelter and bench areas November onwards,   the PC should be getting someone to clear the leaves at this point, as well as the other times of the year. Residents needed wellies to get to the bus shelter.

PC comments. It is difficult for someone to clear the mud/debris as cars park near the shelter. Also that within the times of the mowing/maintenance contract the leaves can be cleared from below the benches then the wind blows more in.

Resident 1. Stated that benches need replacing and the trees tidying up in the Willows. It was queried why the area in the vicinity of Haddon Hall is cleared regularly on their paths, why can’t it be done in GL.  The area was thought to be private land (UTE rep).

Resident 2. Questioned whether with the new 2 month gap in between meetings that opinions are being sent in for planning applications. The PC’s opinions count. The resident also highlighted the frightening experience residents are having on Station Rd, with coaches and cars pushing people off the road, it being particularly difficult for those who are disabled or with pushchairs.

Clerks comments.  If a planning application comes in the coming weeks following a meeting, she will email PDNPA and let them know when the next meeting is, where the application will be discussed.

Cllr Cox stated that he had sent his apologies by email for the last meeting. The Clerk asked if Cllrs could let her know/circulate to others as well, or phone, if the circumstances mean a late decision of being absent for a meeting.

The meeting opened at 7.43pm

01/14 Election of the Chairman.

Cllr Wright proposed Cllr Long chair the meeting, seconded by Cllr Thompson.

02/14 Apologies for absence.

There were no apologies.

03/14 Declarations of business interests.

Cllr Cox declared an interest in item 5.1 on the agenda, a quote from his employer. Cllr Wright declared an interest in items covering DCC.

04/14 Minutes of the meeting 13^th November 2013.

The minutes were proposed by Cllr Thompson and seconded by Cllr Cox.

05/14 Recreation Ground.

5.1 Playground.

5.1 1 Noticeboard. Awaiting dry weather.

5.1.2 Boat. Cllr Thompson  had tightened the section.

5.1.3 Quote for work on climber igloo matting,and wet pour for both swing areas.

There was much discussion on the climber igloo area with regards to levels and water staying on the surface, joints, seals, pressure cleaning to drain out first.

Other areas discussed were the paintwork getting a bit tatty, to look at in spring, to note on the monthly inspection sheet. The exterior bolts on the jumbolander were discussed, replace all (approx 100) or putting rubber caps on (different size caps required) or  cutting the bolts, the later not seen as advisable. It was resolved for the bolts to be looked at when the engineer does work on the tennis court.

Cllr Cox left the meeting at 7.55pm

The Cllrs looked at the quote for the dome climbing frame work, repair to safety surface to swings and work to village hall roof. Cllr Thompson proposed that the safety surfacing swing work be carried out, seconded by Cllr Wright with the product to be stored if any left, if appropriate once opened. Cllr Thompson proposed that the slate work on the village hall be carried out, seconded by Cllr Wright.

It was resolved for a re quote of the dome work, accommodating a pressure clean and taking out the sealing.

Cllr Cox rejoined the meeting at 8pm.

5.2 Equipment for older children. To report on progress of adaption’s for trial and removal of goal posts. Cllr Long reported that hopefully the work to the tennis court should start soon, weather permitting. The Clerk reported that there is no sign on the court, this has blown away. Sign to be placed on when work is carried out on the court. Two letters had been received from members of the tennis club, one from a local resident (against the changes to the court), the other residents letter (approve in principle, as being a good idea to convert to a more varied use). There was concern over whether the weekly sessions  11 – 1 on a Wednesday and Sunday will still be available to the tennis club).

Cllr Thompson, whose name had been highlighted in the local resident’s letter, stated that he would not approve any measures that do not include playing tennis. Resolved for the Clerk to acknowledge receipt of the letters, asking the local resident for a Secretarial contact for the resident’s letter, as this did not have a name/names.

The Clerk highlighted that the old goal posts are still on the rec. Cllr Long to look into.

5.3 Maintenance on rec.

5.3 1 Tree work. The Clerk reported that the tree work is planned for January. A quote had been received from the tree surgeon doing the other work, for the lime tree. Cllr Thompson proposed going ahead with lime tree, seconded by Cllr Long. Clerk to contact the tree surgeon.

5.3.2 Hedges. B Cardona had requested doing the hedge behind the tennis court in January. The Cllrs agreed to this. Clerk to let B Cardona know. Adjacent fence panel to hedge, to be discussed at the next meeting re its removal. The hedge at the bottom corner of the rec, adjacent the meadows housing. Clerk to write to the adjacent residents.

5.3.3 Strimming near tennis court. The Clerk had met up with a member of GLCC re the area requiring strimming, the Clerk reported that as the months have passed, the need for strimming has diminished as the nettles etc have flattened, however it has opened up a bigger job. In between the two beech hedges the area has overhanging foliage/branches from the neighbouring property. Clerk to write to the property. Area to be looked at once debris from garden removed.

5.4 Access on to rec from Spring Bank. Cllr Wright presented a schedule of work/drawings/photos with the aim of widening the existing gap adjacent to the gatepost to permit pushchairs and wheelchairs on to and off the rec. The drawings demonstrated what could be achieved by looking at the existing and proposed.  The gap would have paving, otherwise would be muddy, as the area is banked up with soil this would need to be removed to allow for the opening . It was proposed by Cllr Long for the Clerk to initially contact PDNPA re permission/grants/comments, then to gain quotes for the work, this seconded by Cllr Thompson.

06/14Village Greens                     

6.1 Lease for area near to the bus shelter. PDNPA had sent letter/s stating that they would like to terminate the lease. The lease was for 42 years, from January 1971. It was proposed for the Clerk to write back to PDNPA accepting the termination of the lease, with the Authority serving written notice  July 2014 to expire July 2015. With all in favour.  PDNPA also informed the PC that work will be carried out in the Willows January onwards.

6.2 Bus shelter ownership. DCC had sent  letters referring to the ownership.  A map showing the extent of the highway boundary was received, including the bus shelter situated on public highway. DCC highlighted in their letter that DCC accepted the gift of the GL bus shelter in 1949 (supporting documents were attached). DCC stated that they no longer take on the responsibility for bus shelters apart from those inherited, such as GL. Resolved for the Clerk to write to DCC stating that the PC do not wish to take on the responsibility of the bus shelter, with all in favour.

6.3 Tree work. Tree surgeon plans to trim trees in January. The Clerk had asked A Slack to look into a tree similar to that of the jubilee one, this would be around £40. Clerk to ask A Slack to purchase a tree up to £60 (reimbursed by PDNPA). Clerk to ask tree surgeon working on other areas for a price to take dead tree out/grind down to the left of the war memorial, Clerk advised of figure. To note the new tree to be planted  further away from the edging/access.

6.4 Chains around war memorial. Clerk to gain suitable long term paint and painter quote.

6.5 West Green shrub area. B Cardona removing shrubs in January, weather permitting. PDNPA had offered to help with a planting scheme for low level shrubs. Resolved to ask the village Horticultural Society to come up with a planting scheme, Cllr Wright to organise.

6.6 Maintenance plan for benches. There was much discussion on the benches within the village; sponsorship to maintain a bench – plaque/s on; local firms sponsoring a bench; contact those in memory when bench comes in a state of disrepair, recycled benches, Pc donated benches. Resolved for Clerk to compile a list of all PC benches in the village and to gain a quote from a carpenter for annual maintenance, based on prioritising so many per year (carpenter to look at identifying those beyond repair to be removed/replaced, and those in need of a stain first).

07/14 Burial Grounds and Fearnehough yard.

7.1 Ivy and wall.  No report.

08/14 Footpaths/roads

8.1 Verge Station Rd. Verges to be monitored/await DDDC in Spring. State of footway opposite Thornbridge Manor discussed, grass growing over path, very narrow path. Clerk to contact DDDC.

8.2 Resurfacing footpath between Grisedale Rd and Glebe Ave. Work had commenced on the path. To note the work had stopped temporarily due to a broken lorry and a broken neighbours post. Location for the grit bin, next meeting.

8.3 PDNPA. Footpath/gate work. Clerk reported that work to the gates from Station Rd footpath, towards L Longstone had been completed. No progress at Stancil Dale. Clerk to contact PDNPA thanking them for work to date/stancil reminder also re: 5.4

8.4 Coronation oak tree. Cllrs to look at for next meeting.

8.5 Streetlights. Clerk to report faults to streetlights 109787 near the post box/White Lion and 045660 near to York Cottage/Croft Rd.

09/14 Quarry.

9.1 Quote for bracing/strengthening gate. Awaiting quote for next meeting.

9.2 Ash tree removal. Thank you to Cox’s for the tree removal.

10/14 Council Administration.

10.1 Land Registration. The Clerk reported that Land Registry had received the documents from the PC, but had not commenced any work on this registration, of the village greens.

10.2 Annual Parish Meeting. After much discussion, it was resolved to consider the meeting to be prior to the May 14th PC meeting, starting at 7pm, as has been historically the format in years past. To be agreed at the next meeting.

10.3 Village week. To be discussed at the next meeting.

11/14 Financial matters.

11.1 Bank reconciliation for 31 November 2013

INCOME           rent                             £123.60
Xmas tree                     £230.00

EXPENDITURE –                                  £4622.84

UNPRESENTED – land registry £80.00

Closing balance in the current account               £1000.00

Closing balance in deposit account                    £29,220.94

11.2 Bank reconciliation for 31 December 2013. To be presented at the meeting.

INCOME

Rent                             20.60
Bank int                        4.00
War stock                     1.80
Dividend                       31.63
58.03

EXPENDITURE ———

Unpresented

Land Registry               80.00

Closing balance in the current a/c                      £1000.00

Closing balance in the deposit a/c                      £29,278.97

11.3 Quarterly statement as at 31 Dec 2013                                     

INCOME

Investments      3.33
Rents               144.20
Donations         230.00
Bank int            4.00
Dividends         31.63

EXPENDITURE

Admin               1380.75
Sec 137            50.00
VAT                 85.27
Greens             1415.00
Burial grds        1050.00
Rec                  1125.00

• To accept and approve payments.

Sarah Stokes    Admin                                                   £706.40 (2 months)
Sarah Stokes    Expenses                                             £52.13
Lord Edward Manners Haddon Estate – x tree                £276.00 (inc VAT)
J W Long Engineering Ltd – festive bulbs                       £198.96 (inc VAT)
J W Long Engineering Ltd – festive lights                       £165.99 (inc VAT)

The payments were proposed by Cllr Cox and seconded by Cllr Thompson. Clerk to send a thank you to Jim Long and John Fawcett for installing the xmas tree and organisation of Lighting, along with thanks to Cllrs Long and Thompson. A thank you to go to Nick Casey for donating funds for the tree. Clerk to look into other suppliers for Xmas 2014 tree, due to the high cost this year. To note the new lighting system are energy efficient.

• To note claims for reimbursable expenditure sent in, including Rights of way agreement. Funds of £2,786.00 have been received for the playing field/closed churchyard.
• To note claim for VAT refund sent in.
• To note all allotment rents received, with one resident remaining on waiting list.
• March meeting.
• To review rentals for allotments, Gilder Quarry and Outrake field. An increase of 3% each year was agreed in line with the precept. Clerk to inform field tenant.

12/14 Precept 2014/2015.

Following on from the last month’s meeting, the Cllrs discussed the 3% increase. DCC had advised a 3% increase, based on band D, being a precept of 16,230, with a grant of £323 paid in addition to this.  Clerk to send relevant paperwork for an agreed  precept of £16,230, with all in favour.

13/14 Planning matters.

13.1 Appeal Decision. Appeal Ref. APP/M9496/A/13/2201053. Castcliffe Barn, Long Lane, Wardlow. Decision – The appeal is dismissed. Noted.

13.2 Appeal Decisions. 3 appeals relating to Five Acres Farm, Wardlow. Noted.

Appeal 1:APP/M9496/A/13/2204129. The appeal is dismissed.

Appeal 2. APP/M9496/C/13/2197386.  The appeal is dismissed and the enforcement notice is upheld.

Appeal 3. APP/M9496/C/13/2197975. The appeal is dismissed and the enforcement notice is upheld.

13.3 Planning Decision notice. NP/DDD/0913/0817 3 Victoria Terrace. Change of use from open space to domestic curtilage. GRANTED. Noted.

13.4 Planning Decision notice. NP/DDD/0813/0690 14 Edge View Drive. Erection of conservatory on side of property. GRANTED. Noted.

13.5 Planning Decision notice. NP/DDD/0913/0767 Ash House. Listed building consent – Second floor extension above existing kitchen. REFUSED. Noted.

13.6 Parish Council consultation. NP/DDD/1113/1032. Gritstone Cottage. Proposed first floor extension.

Pc comments: No objections.

13.7 Parish Council consultation. NP/DDD/1213/1159 Five Acres Farm, Narrow Gate Lane, Wardlow. Proposed agricultural building.

Pc comments: Question if the design is suitable for the stocking of animals and the planning history of the site.

14/14 Police matters and neighbourhood watch. Cllr Wright on  a scheme called imobilse, designed to register new pieces of equipment such as computers, tablets etc. Information to be passed to UTE.

15/14 Clerks report.

1. Contacted GLCC re price to strim area of rec.
2. Contacted tree surgeon to go ahead on tree work, also for a price for work on the lime tree nr barn on rec.
3. Wrote to PDNPA re lease for area near bus shelter.
4. Wrote to/liaised with DCC re bus shelter ownership.
5. Looked into price for new thorn on green.
6. Contacted PDNPA re purchasing new thorn.
7. Contacted PDNPA re shrub area on West Green.
8. Asked B Cardona to go ahead with work to shrubs on West Green.
9. Contacted PDNPA re gate at Stancil Dale.
10. Amended Parish Diary.
11. Sent in reimbursable claims.
12. Sent in VAT claim.
13. Acknowledged receipt of all allotment rents.
14. Handed bank mandate form to RBS.
15. Contacted Cllr Cox re village hall roof.
16. Contacted Aon clarifying snow clearance position.

16/14 To report any items of correspondence received and agree any actions arising.

• 15/11/13 PDNPA. Longstone Edge East. The Clerk read ‘ At today’s planning committee, the Authority resolved to make a prohibition order under paragraph 3 of section 9 of the Town and country Planning Act 1990 and submit it to the Secretary of State for confirmation, preventing further mineral extraction under permission ref 1898/9/69 granted on 24 April 1952 and imposing restoration and aftercare conditions within the order. This refers to the permission at Deep Rake, Hassop (Longstone Edge East).
• 15/11/13 Great Hucklow PC. Xmas trees. Noted.
• 19/11/13 PDNPA. Gate in state of disrepair, Stancil Dale. See 8.3
• 19/11/13 PPPF. Fire Service consultation. Noted.
• 26/11/13 DDDC. Area Community Forum. Monday 17th Feb, ABC Bakewell 2014. Noted.
• 27/11/13 DALC. General circular. Clerk highlighted training in April for  Cllrs, two residents have shown an interest in becoming a Cllr.
• 27/11/13 DCC. Dealing with Derbyshire’s waste – strategy review. Noted.
• 27/11/13 PDNPA. Lease for area near to bus shelter. See 6.1
• 28/11/13 Resident. Waiting list allotments. The Clerk had also looked into the allotments at Little Longstone for the resident on the waiting list.
• 29/11/13 DDDC. Arts matters winter 2013. Pass details to UTE.
• 02/12/13 PDNPA. Shrub area West Green. See 6.5
• 03/12/13 DCC. Footpath 50. See 8.2
• 10/12/13 DDDC. Christmas refuse/recycling. Noted.
• 11/12/13 DDDC. Town/Parish Council Conference 25^th February 2014, 7pm ABC, Bakewell. Also ‘walking for health’ and ‘Community safety partnership newsletter. Pass details to UTE and display leaflet.
• 11/12/13 DALC. General circular. Clerk reported on DALC spring seminar in March for Clerks, costs have been requested.
• 13/12 13 DCC. Ownership of bus shelter. See 6.2
• 18/12/13 DCC. Ownership of bus shelter. See 6.2
• 19/12/13 DDDC. Recycling sites. The Clerk highlighted a letter stating that the village recycling site containers will be removed during January. The PC had not been consulted on this prior to the letter. There was concern for those whom do not have blue lidded/blue boxes/blue bags. Resolved for the Clerk to write to DCC  asking why the PC were not consulted, as the facility is well used and to ask that the containers remain, not be removed. Clerk also to contact The White Lion re the change.
• 19/12/13 DDDC. Parish Estimates. See 12/14
• 23/12/13 J Twigg. Removal of bring banks. See above under recycling.
• 24/12/13 PDNPA. Lease for area near bus shelter. See 6.1
• 02/01/14 Blackrock. Dividend advice. Noted.

17/14 Late items of correspondence.

• 08/01/14 Clerks and Councils direct January 2014. Noted.
• 08/01/14 Local Resident. Tennis court. Clerk to acknowledge receipt.
• 08/01/14 Resident. Tennis court. Clerk to acknowledge receipt.

18/14 Date of next meetings.

Wednesday 12^th March 2014 at 7.30pm

Wednesday 14^th May 2014 at 7.30pm

The Chair closed the meeting at 9.57pm

 

Sarah Stokes, Clerk to Great Longstone Parish Council, Longstone Byre, Little Longstone, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1NN. Tel: 01629 640851  Email:parishcouncil@greatlongstone.net