DRAFT

BAUGHURST PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of a meeting held on Tuesday 12 January 2010

7.30 pm, Heath End Hall, Baughurst

PRESENT:         Cllrs C C Surtees (Chairman), M Adams, J C Ayre, P E Garrett, J Hewitt, P R S

                        Postance, G Round (fr3), M G Slatford (fr3), S E Terrett

                        Apologies for absence:  Cllrs G Adams and F Langley

                        Also present:  County Councillor M Tucker, Borough Councillor M Bound and 2

                        members of the public

81.       Minutes of the last meeting

The Minutes of the meeting of 26 November 2009, copies of which had been circulated, were taken as read and approved following the amendment of (71) DoE to Planning Inspectorate.

82.       Declarations of interest

Councillors were reminded that for those with any interest to be disclosed in relation to any item included in the agenda for this meeting, it was their duty to do so at the appropriate agenda item (as required to be disclosed by Section 96(1) of the LGA 1972, and in accordance with the Parish Councils Order 2001).

83.       Matters arising from the Minutes

(57)      Wolverton Lane

Latest snowfalls had been instrumental in showing the extent and colour of the effluence seeping down the lane.  Environment Agency had been sent photographs showing the damage, and asked to consider revoking the licence originally granted to the owner.  It was considered possible that original ditches used to transport the effluence might well have been filled in, ensuring that the seepage chose a different route.

(58)      Wolverton Townsend

The recent ice and snow had resulted in several further accidents on the bend at Wolverton Townsend.  HCC had advised that they would revisit the site in terms of additional signs and markings, and advised that there is a backlog on such works due to the poor weather conditions.  It was suggested that they should also consider revisiting the recent drainage works carried out in the vicinity – an order to install a new gully had been placed during the Christmas holiday period.    HCC also advised that, during the next few months, design work for traffic calming in the parish would be continuing, and would be one of the schemes bidding for funding in the spring.  They also advised that this Council would be notified of any dates for highway works as soon as they are known.

(59)      Footpath 10

HCC had advised that, following a complaint to the Ombudsman, a positive decision in favour of the County Council had been received.  Matters will now move forward with regard to definition of the path and the way forward.

(59)      Kissing gates

No contact had yet been made.

(59)      Copier

No written quotations had been received from the two companies recommended and approved by County Supplies.  Agreed that alternative additional quotations should be received from elsewhere.

(75)      Land to rear of Hurst Community College

The promised works had not been carried out because of the severe weather conditions.  Several dead and dying trees had been reported on the tumulus, on land which is owned by London & Quadrant but bound by the regulations imposed by English Heritage, as the site is an ancient burial ground.  The situation is to be reported to English Heritage.

(75)      Footpath 13

No rules state that a dog must be on a lead at all times when walking a right of way.  However, emphasis is placed on dog owners to ensure that the dog is under strict control and not allowed to wander.  It is illegal for dog owners to allow their dogs to trespass (wander off the right of way) and/or worry livestock.  Different rules apply to areas covered by the ‘rights to roam’ order, and in such areas dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times.

(75)      Footpath 24

Further information to be requested regarding the temporary re-routing of the above right of way.

(76)      Long Grove

The planned remedial works to the vandalised play equipment are postponed until the ground is less frozen. 

(77)      Ditching, Violet Lane

Agreed that, although ditching had been carried out, it was not fit for purpose.  HCC to be advised. 

84.       County, Borough, BDAPTC and Police reports

County Councillor Tucker reported on the successful outcome of the audit of HCC by the Audit Commission, and also an award by the Adult Services Care Quality Commission.  The restoration of Queen Elizabeth II Court had gained a UK Green Building Sustainability Award.  She also advised another vehicular accident which had demolished, yet again, a part of the churchyard wall at St Catherine’s church, Wolverton.

Borough Councillor Round advised the recent introduction of bus route 56, which covers a vast swathe of Baughurst and Wolverton; and also gave an update on the situation regarding Boundary Hall and planning, where members are to be given more information and then reassess the application.  He touched upon grit spreading and snow clearance, and urged local people to nominate worthy candidates for the ‘Awards for All’ scheme organised by BDBC.  Cllr Bound gave an update on the criticisms levelled at BDBC regarding poor communication about the collection of litter bins. 

Cllr Slatford reported on the recent survey undertaken by the Hampshire Association of Local Councils, who are considering removing themselves from the National Association of Local Councils.   He also asked for feedback from the Conference and Mayoral Reception held in late November, attended by Chairman, Clerk and Cllr Hewitt.  He also mentioned the Manual for Streets initiative.

85.       Open forum

One member of the public presented copies of plans which he intends to submit to BDBC for their consideration. 

86.       Finance

a)         to receive and consider the latest financial statement

The latest statement was received and noted.

b)         to consider and approve donation to Salvation Army (Remembrance Sunday)

Approval was given to a donation of £25 under the Chairman’s allowance.

c)         to consider and approve annual renewal of subscription to Society of Local Council Clerks

Approval was given to the renewal of subscription of £118.00.

d)         to consider and approve payment of invoice from Rowberry Morris solicitors

Approval was given to payment of the invoice for £2,610.50.

e)         to consider provision of salt bins

Agreed that 6 salt bins should be provided, at locations yet to be agreed.  Application is to be made, via County Councillor Tucker, for assistance with funding.  The bins cost approximately £132 without fitting costs, and should preferably be lockable, and placed on hardstanding on grass, without obstructing sightlines.  Their siting is determined by HCC, and their filling likewise.

87.       Planning

a)         to receive and consider the latest planning applications

b)         any matters arising

88.       Playing fields and Open Spaces

a)         General

Clerk advised that £21,600 was available from Section 106 agreements, via BDBC, for play schemes.  £5,600 was also available for funding for open spaces.  Agreed that this would be considered at next meeting of Playing Fields and Open Spaces committee.

89.       Highways and Rights of Way

a)  A request from a resident for an area of ‘Residents only’ parking in Woodlands Road had been referred to HCC.

b)  Agreed that application should be made for two areas of pavement from Wolverton Common to St Catherine’s church, under the BDBC Access for All capital programme for 2010/11.

90.       Open forum

Agreed that a copy of the original lease between the Sir George Brown Charity and this Council should be sent to the Charity.

91.       Councils

The following papers were received:  report from Mayoral Reception and conference; notification of survey by Hampshire Association of Local Councils with a view to immediate withdrawal from the National Association; BDBC refuse collection during recent snowfall; Audit Commission appointment of new external auditor.

92.       Accounts for payment

Received:  £7.50 footpaths booklets; 60p interest

To pay:

92.       Date of next meeting

The next meeting of BAUGHURST PARISH COUNCIL will take place on Thursday 25 February 2010, 7.30 pm, Heath End Hall, Baughurst.