Minutes
Draft Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday, 7th June 2010 in the Village Hall Present: Ken Turner Peter Crook Arthur Lawn Helen Mann Roger Jones Rod Russell John Debbage James Carswell (County Councillor) George Debbage (District Councillor) Apologies: PCSO Bob Hall District Councillor: George Debbage reported that he had been re-elected chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at Broadland District Council. He stated that, as the pressure for housing still exists, it is expected that the planning consultation process will continue, despite the new Government’s proposed changes to the planning system. County Councillor: James Carswell suggested that these changes might affect the proposals for the Eco-Town at Rackheath. He talked about the efficiency savings being investigated at County Hall. James reported that he has spoken to NCC about the speed limit reduction near to the primary school and has requested a speed count to be carried out. Police: PCSO Bob Hall sent a report that there have been no recorded crimes since the last meeting. Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda: Rod Russell declared a personal and prejudicial interest in the planning application for Mr Thwaites. Minutes: The minutes of the meeting held on 10th May 2010 were agreed to be correct and were signed by Ken Turner as chairman of the Council. Matters Arising: Councillors’ Reports: Playing field (John Debbage): Churchyard (Roger Jones): Cemetery (Arthur Lawn): Village Hall (Roger Jones): Play area (Helen Mann): There is nothing to report. Burlingham Road play area (John Debbage): Burlingham Road wood (Helen Mann): Nothing to report. The Green (Peter Crook): The staithe (Rod Russell and Roger Jones): Pilson Green Pond (Ken Turner): Rickety Hill (John Debbage): Harrold’s Charity and SW Parish Charity (John Debbage and Arthur Lawn): SW Country Fair (Peter Crook and Helen Mann): Tree warden (John Debbage): John has not been able to attend meetings recently. Fairhaven Primary School (Peter Crook): Peter is not appointed by the Council but will report back issues which may be of interest to the Council. St Lawrence’s Committee (Peter Crook): Correspondence: Treasurer’s Report: £ Balance b/f at 11th May 2010 5,595.99 Receipts: Bank interest 0.34 Slipway key fees 75.00 Upton PC – reimb. costs 30.71 Woodbastwick PC – share of costs 15.36 Beighton PC – share of costs 15.36 BDC – recycling credit 308.48 SW Village Hall – water 873.46 Cheques for payment: E.ON dd – bowls club electricity 9.00 P James – clerk’s fee and exps 302.40 Norfolk Pension 61.47 Garden Guardian – grass cutting 631.42 Balance c/f 7th June 2010 5,910.41 Savings Account 7,903.57 JCBF Account 12,205.49 Total monies 26,019.47 Reserves: JCBF 12,683.00 Repairs and Renewals 11,575.00 General monies 1,761.47 26,019.47 The clerk drew the councillors’ attention to the low balance in the general fund. Residents’ Comments on Planning Matters: None. Planning: i) Mr Thwaites, White Lodge, Kingfisher Lane – demolition of flat roofed kitchen extension and replacement with two storey extension. (Rod Russell declared a personal and prejudicial interest and took no part in the discussion or voting.) After some consideration it was agreed to object to the plans as the extension seemed to be out-of-keeping, although an improvement on what is already there. It was noted that the plans do not show the garage. ii) Mr Hume, 1 Hill Farm Barns, Chameryhall Lane – external flue. There were no objections to the plans. Playing Field and Changing Rooms: The village hall committee has sent details of the costs for the changing rooms – cleaning costs are for 2 hours per week. The councillors raised again the proposal that the village hall committee should bill the teams direct. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting. BA report on slipway: BA has stated that it believes the current agreement on access to the slipway is too restrictive. The Authority considers that if public money is to be spent on upgrading the facility then public access should be provided to the slipway. The Authority believes that the slipway can be opened to public use “without insurmountable problems”. The councillors felt that this was a disappointing response after a useful meeting at the slipway last year when the restrictions on the slipway were discussed, together with the small size of the car park, the problems with the narrowness of Broad Lane and the concerns of local residents about increased usage of the slipway. Councillors were concerned that the Council was not consulted properly on the Broads Authority Slipway Policy. It was agreed that the Council should carry out repairs to the slipway to make it safer and it was agreed that the councillors would meet on site to discuss this. It was agreed that repairs costing up to £500 were authorised. The councillors expressed their concern that the Broads Authority had still not repaired the piling adjacent to the slipway. The lock was cut off by the emergency services. The clerk will ask if the lock can be re-used so as to avoid sending out replacement keys. Public Forum: Any Other Business: There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.20 p.m. Signed......................................... Dated: 5th July 2010 Chairman ..................................................................................................................................................................................................
Draft Minutes of the Annual Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday,
10th May 2010 in the Village Hall
Present:
Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Roger Jones
Rod Russell John Debbage Helen Mann
Peter Crook
James Carswell (County Councillor) George Debbage (District Councillor)
Election of Chairman:
Ken Turner was elected as Chairman of the Parish Council, and Peter Crook was elected vice-chairman. Ken thanked Arthur Lawn for his work as the previous Chairman.
Apologies:
None.
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
Roger Jones declared a personal interest in the planning application for Fiddlers Brook as he is a neighbour.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 7th April 2010 were signed as correct after the addition of the acceptance of the accounts from the Carnival Committee.
Matters Arising:
1. Norfolk County Council has agreed to install a dropped kerb in Panxworth Road.
2. The clerk has spoken to the tree officer at Broadland District Council; he is unsure about the proposed pollarding of the limes and will re-visit the site. He did say that there is a very good chance of a significant grant from the District Council for work on the trees.
3. The Broads Authority has said that a date is expected shortly for the repairs to the piling and to the slipway. There has been no news about the Authority’s proposal to increase public access to the slipway. Councillors expressed concern about increased traffic and the importance of additional car parking provision if the slipway is opened to the general public. Any proposed change to the agreement will be discussed fully.
4. The grit bin at Pilson Green pond is now in the correct location at the side of the road in Broad Lane, opposite to the pond.
5. It was reported that maintenance work at Pilson Green pond is nearly complete.
6. Ken and Peter Crook reported that they have planted a hedge of laurel at the cemetery extension. The councillors thanked them for their hard work.
7. John Atkins confirmed that he is happy to carry out the maintenance of the benches at the staithe.
Public Forum:
- Residents requested that they be kept informed about any proposed changes to the car parking at the staithe.
- New signage is needed for the car park
- A couple of street nameplates were reported for repair.
- The footway in Panxworth Road needs repair.
- The verge at the staithe has been damaged by lorries.
Correspondence:
1. The Police sent a report of one recorded crime since the last meeting
2. There has been a complaint about farm vehicles using the narrow part of Burlingham Road, at the junction with Newport Road. The resident suggested that the road was subject to a bylaw banning large vehicles. The councillors confirmed that they were unaware of any such bylaw.
3. The examination into the Joint Core Strategy will be held on 13th May.
4. Details have been received of a shared ownership property which is available to purchase in Burlingham Road. This will be advertised locally.
Accounts and Annual Return:
The clerk presented the Accounts for the year ended 31st March 2010. These were approved. The Council also completed section 2 of the Annual Return and authorised Ken Turner to sign both Sections 1 & 2 on behalf of the Council.
Treasurer’s Report: £
Balance b/f at 8th April 2010 (35.81)
Correction 1.00
Receipts:
Staithe key fees 225.00
Key deposits 10.00
NCC licence fee 700.00
Burial fees 313.00
Acle PC - share of stationery 92.14
Interest 0.34
Precept - 1st half 7,304.00
Cheques for payment:
Electricity dd 9.00
Norfolk Pension- April 59.71
P James - clerk’s fee and exps 570.43
Norfolk Pension - May 69.95
Acle PC - share of exps 15.83
Garden Guardian - grass cutting two months 1,262.84
Broadland DC - litter collection at cemetery 24.44
Broker Network – insurance 759.34
P Crook - reimb machinery hire 242.14
Balance c/f at 10th May 2010 5,595.99
Savings Account 7,903.57
JCBF Account 12,205.49
Total monies £25,705.05
Reserves:
JCBF 12,683.00
Repairs and Renewals 11,575.00
General monies 1,456.05
£25,714.05
Planning:
i) Mr Williams, Fiddlers Brook, 6 Fleet Lane - ground and first floor extensions/ additions (to replace extant PP 20070816). (Roger Jones declared a personal interest as neighbour). There were no objections to the plans.
Planning results from Broadland District Council:
i) Mr Turner, Dormer House, Oakfield Drive – single storey side extension (20100389). Full approval.
ii) Mr & Mrs Turner, Pond Cottage, Broad Lane – revised fenestration to rear and erection of porch to front (retrospective) (20100308). Full approval.
iii) Kilbourn and Henderson, Venture Cottage, Marsh Road – first floor rear extension (20100322). Full approval.
iv) Mr Hume, 1 Hill Farm Barns - garden shed (retrospective) - refused.
Playing Field and Changing Rooms:
The village hall committee has not replied to the clerk’s letter asking when the increase in changing rooms costs will be implemented.
The clerk presented details of income and expenditure for the playing field. It was agreed to set revised fees at the January meeting and to ask the village hall committee to set their fees in December.
Garden Guardian is still cutting the cricket pitch area and the cricket club are cutting the pitch in between the scheduled cuts.
Litter in Fleet Lane:
The clerk has received a telephone call from the Environment Agency to say that they are investigating the litter problem at Fleet Lane and will arrange a site meeting shortly.
George Debbage is trying to arrange a meeting between the various agencies.
Any Other Business:
- At a recent Norfolk Wildlife Trust meeting they discussed the installation of toilets at their car parks. The clerk was asked to contact the NWT about re-opening the toilets at South Walsham
- Peter reported that he has spread the ballast on the rear car park at the village hall. The councillors thanked Peter for this.
- James Carswell reported that there is to be a review of speed limits near to schools.
- It was reported that the Fairhaven Trust is removing the pile of rubble.
- A manhole cover has sunk on Panxworth Road.
- It was reported that there are numerous potholes in Broad Lane
- There is also a pothole in Oakfield Drive
- A water manhole cover needs repair on The Street near Harefen.
- A fence and hedge has been erected on the corner of Rickety Hill which obscures visibility.
- Bridleway no 11 is badly rutted.
- The conifer on the Anglian water site at Panxworth is obscuring the view of oncoming traffic
- There have been several accidents recently at the railings on Panxworth Road
- It was requested that adverts for the Canoeman should be removed from roadside trees
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.05 p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 7th June 2010
Chairman
Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday, 1st March 2010 in the Village Hall
Present: Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Roger Jones
Rod Russell John Debbage Helen Mann
Peter Crook
PCSO Bob Hall
Apologies: James Carswell (County Councillor)
George Debbage (District Councillor)
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
Ken Turner declared a personal and prejudicial interest in the planning application for his own home.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 1st February 2010 were agreed to be correct and were signed by Arthur Lawn, as Chairman of the Parish Council.
Matters Arising:
- Dr Packman, Chief Executive of the Broads Authority, has written to say that the moorings in Fleet Dyke are the responsibility of the Environment Agency. He says that officers have been in contact with the Agency and Broadland District Council to try to improve the litter problem in the area.
2. The Broads Authority has confirmed that they will consult with the Parish Council before taking any action concerning the old granary wall at the staithe.
3. The litter bin has been ordered for opposite the school.
4. Michael Linsdell has reported that the repairs to the lighting in the churchyard were held up by the bad weather and that it is suspected that the fault is underground.
5. Roger Jones reported that the new bench for the staithe would be a good quality, hardwood bench, fixed down.
6. The new door for the electricity box in the copse at the playing field has been made.
7. The new grit bin needs filling.
Public Forum:
1. PCSO Bob Hall introduced himself and reported that there had been one recorded crime since the last meeting.
2. There was some discussion about allotments. Norfolk County Council has agreed to investigate allotment land next time some land is due for rent review.
Correspondence:
1. South Walsham Brownies have requested a grant towards their annual census costs of £483. It was agreed to give a grant of £50.
2. There has been a request for ashes to be buried at the cemetery. It was agreed that ashes should be buried on the right hand side of the cemetery.
3. NCC has sent details of the permanent diversion order for footpath no: 1, in order for the flood alleviation works to be carried out. This was noted.
4. Norfolk Wildlife Trust has invited residents to a meeting on 14th April at 7.00 in Upton Village Hall on their plans for Upton and South Walsham marshes.
Treasurer’s Report: £
Balance b/f at 2nd February 2010 1,165.41
Receipts:
Bank interest 0.33
Bowls Club – ground rent and electricity 182.04
SW PCC – Baker Fund contribution 1,091.24
Rackheath Village Hall – reimb paint costs 54.28
Football Club – ground rent 225.00
Cheques for payment:
E.On – electricity dd 9.00
South Walsham Parish Charity (s.137 payment) 100.00
Acle PC – share of costs 39.64
Hall Group – wood for planters 180.00
P James – clerk’s fee and exps 315.84
Justin Nudd – work at churchyard 372.00
Ben Green – work at churchyard 240.00
Norfolk Pension Fund 56.11
Balance c/f at 1st March 2010 1,405.71
Savings Account 7,903.57
JCBF 12,204.40
Total monies 21,513.68
These amounts were approved for payment.
Planning:
i) D & C Murrell, Hemblington Road – cattle shelter (application for prior notification).
The clerk circulated information on this application and was authorised to send the Council’s objections, on the same grounds as before: out of character with surrounding countryside, in an area of landscape value, with concerns about highways safety.
ii) Mr Turner, Dormer House, Oakfield Drive – ground and first floor rear extension incorporating first floor. (Ken Turner declared a personal and prejudicial interest, as owner, left the room and took no part in the discussion or voting). The councillors had no objections to the plans.
iii) Mr Hume, No:1 Hill Farm Barns, Chameryhall Lane – garden shed (retrospective).
The councillors had no objections to the plans.
Planning results:
i) D & C Murrell, Hemblington Road – cattle shelter (application for prior notification). The District Council has determined that prior approval is required and refused to grant such approval. (Broadland District Council).
ii) Mr Maltby, The Boathouse, Fleet Lane – replacement of existing quay heading in boathouse with timber and dredging – approval (Broads Authority)
iii) Fairhaven Garden Trust – replace existing quayheading and raise the site by 300mm – approval (Broads Authority).
iv) Mr Corson, Staithe Cottage – retrospective application for boardwalk – approval (Broads Authority).
Playing Field:
The grass cutting contract has been reduced by £200 to £820.00 to reflect the grass cutting to be carried out by the cricket club. This was accepted.
It was agreed that the clerk should ask an electrician to carry out testing on the electrical supplies at the playing field.
Peter Crook reported that he has completed the cutting down of some small trees in the copse and will hire a stump grinder for these and for the stumps of the conifers in the cemetery.
Cemetery:
The new hedge has not yet been planted. It was agreed that the cemetery was looking very neat.
Licence with Norfolk County Council:
Peter reported that Norfolk County Council had sent a revised licence, following concerns from the Primary School. It was agreed to sign this new licence.
Financial Management:
The Financial Standing Orders, Duties of the Responsible Financial Officer, Financial Risk Assessment, Review of Internal Controls and Review of Internal Audit were presented, discussed and approved.
Any Other Business:
1. The next meeting is Wednesday, 7th April.
2. It was reported that some potholes had been filled, but not those in Wymers Lane. The
clerk will ask NCC to inspect these.
3. In Kingfisher Lane a resident has tipped asphalt into potholes. NCC has told the resident that this is an adopted “green lane” and is therefore the responsibility of the County Council. The resident has been asked to remove the asphalt and reinstate the road as it was.
4. Councillors reported that they would be seeking road closure notices before cutting their
hedges, so that the arisings can be cleared away safely.
5. Helen Mann reported on a meeting of the skateboard committee; three boys attended and
one other adult. A meeting has been called for March and will be the final meeting if no more people turn up.
6. Some signage was reported for improvement.
7. Peter and Ken talked about work to be done at Pilson Green pond and it was agreed that
the land around the pond should be levelled to facilitate the grass cutting.
8. It was reported that St Lawrence committee is completing the final stages of the
application for clearing the ruins of the tower.
9. Mr Murrell was thanked for clearing the land at Rickety Hill.
10. Peter offered to clear the rubble in the rear car park at the village hall.
11. The clerk reported that she has changed the lock on the gateway at the rear of the
churchyard as the original lock was difficult to open.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.00 p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 7th April 2010
Chairman
Draft Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday, 1st February 2010 in the Village Hall Present: Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Roger Jones John Debbage Helen Mann Rod Russell George Debbage (District Councillor) James Carswell (County Councillor) Apologies: Peter Crook Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda: John Debbage and Arthur Lawn declared a prejudicial interest in the application for funds for the South Walsham Parish Charity as they are both trustees. Arthur also declared a prejudicial interest in the planning application for Holly Farm as he has business dealings with the family. Minutes: The minutes of the meeting held on 4th January 2010 were agreed to be correct and were signed by Arthur Lawn, as Chairman of the Parish Council. Matters Arising: 1. Arthur Lawn, Rod Russell, Peter Crook and the clerk met with Adrian Clarke and another officer from the Broads Authority to discuss the replacement slipway. Adrian apologised for the delay in arranging the meeting. The Broads Authority internal contractors are to price for the replacement slipway. The officers were concerned at the poor state of the existing piling and also raised the issue of the ruined wall of the granary on the land owned by the Authority. Some of the councillors expressed concern that the wall might be demolished and the clerk was asked to write to request consultation on any proposals. The clerk has written to Dr Packman, Chairman of The Broads Authority, about the litter bins, but has not yet had a reply. 2. Norfolk County Council has approved the new grit bins at the pond and the school. 3. The Council’s insurers have sent advice on gritting; the provision of grit bins is fine, but there must be no expectation that the parish council will carry out any gritting in the village. 4. Broadland District Council has suggested that the new litter bin should be sited outside Fairhaven Trust car park. 5. The hedge reported as being over the edge of the highway has since been cut. 6. Helen Mann will report to the school governors about the licence with NCC for the car park and the use of the recreation field. 7. The clerk will ask if the repairs to the lighting in the churchyard have been carried out yet. 8. No checks have yet been done on the electricity supplies on the recreation field. Public Forum: 1. James Carswell reported that funding has been secured for the Northern Distributor Route from Postwick to the A140 near to the airport. He also talked about the reduced gritting schedule which will be necessary if the cold weather continues. 2. George Debbage will attend the governors’ meeting at the school and will explain the NCC licence. George also suggested a wooden capping for the granary wall at the staithe, to form seating. 3. John Atkins talked about the renewed Homewatch scheme in the village. It was confirmed that John and the clerk will exchange any information received on local crimes until a new Police Homewatch scheme is launched. Correspondence: 1. There has been an offer to provide and site a new bench in the churchyard. This was agreed in principle, subject to it being a good quality bench and adequately fixed to the ground. 2. There has also been an offer to provide a bench to be located at the staithe. This was also agreed. John Atkins offered to carry out some maintenance of the existing bench at the staithe. 3. The WI have not had a formal request to consider the maintenance of flower beds on The Green or at the village nameplates so have not formally considered this yet. 4. The Police sent a report for the month: 4 recorded crimes 5. The police also sent a report on vehicle speeds through the village; a top speed of 49 mph in The Street was recorded. 6. The Broads Authority has invited councillors to attend a planning parish forum on Wednesday 28th April at 6.00. Treasurer’s Report: £ Balance b/f at 5th January 2010 7,154.21 Receipts: Transfer from Savings Account 1,000.00 Bank interest 0.40 Cheques for payment: Transfer to JCBF 6,325.92 E.On – dd – bowls club electricity 9.00 Wilkersons – supplies 17.81 Sth Walsham Village Hall – room hire 26.40 Anglian Health & Safety – grit bins 234.88 Norfolk Pension Fund 56.11 P James – clerk’s fee and exps 305.67 Acle PC – share of exps 13.41 Balance c/f at 4th January 2010 1,165.41 Savings Account 7,903.57 JCBF 12,204.40 Total monies 21,273.38 The above invoices were approved for payment. It was also agreed to give a donation to South Walsham Parish Charity of £100 (S.137 payment). Arthur and John declared a personal and prejudicial interest as trustees and took no part in the discussion nor decision. Planning: i) Mr Maltby, The Boathouse, 1a Fleet Lane – replacement of existing quay heading in boathouse with timber and dredging. The councillors had no objection to the plans. ii) Powles Development, 6 The Street – demolition of garage buildings and flat, erection of 5 dwellings with associated works (replacing PP20071048). The councillors had no objection to the plans, but repeated their concerns that, with out a lay-by, people will park on the new pavement to visit the shop and post box. iii) G Marjoram & son, Holly Farm – change of use from agricultural land to grazing for horses. (Retrospective). (Arthur declared an interest in the application). The councillors had no objection to the plans. Playing Field: The clerk confirmed that the Council pays the standing charge for the electricity supply for the bowls club. The club pay for the usage. Cemetery: It was agreed that Peter could hire a stump grinder to remove the remains of the conifers. There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 p.m. Signed......................................... Dated: 1st March 2010 Chairman
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Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday,
4th January 2010 in the Village Hall
Present:
Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Roger Jones
Rod Russell John Debbage Helen Mann
Peter Crook
Apologies:
James Carswell (County Councillor) George Debbage (District Councillor)
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
None.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 7th December 2009 were agreed to be correct and were signed by Arthur Lawn, as Chairman of the Parish Council.
Matters Arising:
1. Peter Crook confirmed that he will spread aggregate on the surface of the rear car park at the village hall.
2. Some residents have objected to the plans to carry out planting along the front of The Green. There was some discussion about this as it was felt that the objections were more about The Green being closed to parking, rather than objections to the planting itself. The councillors repeated their conviction that The Green should not be used for car parking as it is an open space for children to play safely.
3. Arthur reported that he has not yet had an opportunity to speak to the owners of The Ship about their intentions for the profits from the bottle bank.
Public Forum:
1. George Debbage gave an update on the Boundary Commission’s proposals for a unitary authority for Norfolk; some district councils are considering applying for a judicial review.
2. Residents repeated their concerns about litter at the slipway. The clerk has not received any further correspondence from the Broads Authority about this and was asked to write to Dr Packman, head of the Broads Authority.
3. Questions were raised about gritting or clearing snow near to the school. The clerk was asked to find out the legal situation from the insurers.
Correspondence:
1. The Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust would like to attend village events, to raise money for the Trust and to raise awareness. The date of the carnival is 12th July.
2. NCC Highways have stated that because there is no record of personal injury on School Road, they are unable to support a request for a 20 mph speed limit. They have requested Police speed checks as compliance with the existing speed limit appears to be a problem.
The site has been inspected by NCC and a footway assessment will be carried out, with a point scoring system to decide on the priority of the footway.
The Police Traffic Officer has inspected the site and will support a request for a footway. However, there are currently over 400 footway schemes in the County awaiting funding.
The clerk was asked to contact Highways to ask that the road be cut back to the edge of the metalled road as it is felt that the road width has reduced over years.
3. NCC will contact the clerk to arrange a Licence to Cultivate for possible planting at the entrances to the village.
4. NCC have stated that the village nameplate near Harefen cannot be moved further out of the village as the policy is to site signs at the start of the main cluster of houses. It was suggested that if the vegetation near the sign were cut back then this might have an impact on drivers’ speeds at this point.
5. The Police sent a report; there have been no recorded crimes since the last meeting.
6. Following requests from the public, the clerk was authorised to purchase two grit bins; one for the junction of Broad Lane and School Road, and one for the entrance to the village hall roadway, near to the school.
7. Councillors have been invited to attend the Police Authority Budget Meeting on 21st January. This was noted.
Treasurer’s Report: £
Balance b/f at 8th December 2009 6,808.18
Receipts:
Bank interest 0.37
BDC - recycling credit 282.88
Burial and memorial fees 368.00
Upton PC - share of haulage costs 42.50
Donation for haulage costs 20.00
Cheques for payment:
E.On - electricity DD 9.00
P James - clerk’s fee and exps 302.61
Norfolk Pension 56.11
Balance c/f at 4th January 2010 7,154.21
Savings Account 8,903.57
Total monies 16,057.78
The above invoices were approved for payment.
Licence with Norfolk County Council:
The draft agreement for the rent of the car park and playing field by the County Council for the school, as agreed by the Parish Council at the last meeting, has been agreed with Norfolk County Council. Arthur Lawn as signed the agreement on behalf of the Parish Council.
A letter has been received from the school expressing concerns about securing the future funding for repairs to the village hall car park. Councillors noted that the agreement with NCC does not specify that any monies should be reserved for future repairs, but repeated their intention that the car park would be repaired when it became necessary.
Playing Field:
The councillors discussed whether electrical testing might be required for the pavilion and the electricity supply to the bowls club. Maurice Durrant offered to discuss this with his son, who is an electrician.
The cricket club has asked if they may remove some trees on the far side of the playing field as they get in the way of the matches. John and Peter offered to cut back some of the more shrubby plants in this area, leaving the trees.
Cemetery:
Peter has kindly cut down the conifers in the middle of the cemetery. The councillors thanked him for this. There has been a complaint about the remaining stumps and it was agreed to cover them with soil so that people would not trip over them. It was also agreed to plant a new hedge on the right hand side.
Budget and Precept:
The clerk presented estimated accounts to the year ending 31st March 2010 and a draft budget for the year ending 31st March 2011. After some discussion it was agreed to increase the precept by 2%, to £14,608, (2% increase.) The clerk’s fee was agreed at scale point 32, £14.06/hour for four hours per week. The contribution to the Joint Councils Baker Fund, other than paying for the grass cutting, was cancelled, and the budget for donations was reduced to £100 for the year. The provision for the slipway was amalgamated with that for the recreation ground and will be called the “contingency” fund. A reserve of £600 per year was started for repairs to the car park. The existing reserve for the churchyard will be transferred to the Joint Councils Baker Fund.
Any Other Business:
1. The date of the April meeting will have to be changed as the hall is booked that night. It was agreed to hold the meeting on Wednesday, 7th April.
2. John Debbage will continue with the plans for planting on The Green as previously discussed.
3. There were complaints that potholes that had been marked by the inspector had not yet been filled.
4. The drain is blocked again by the church corner. The councillors felt that the church wall would be damaged by continual splashing from the flooding in this location.
5. A hedge in Marsh Road was reported as overhanging the road. The clerk was asked to contact NCC.
There being no further business the meeting closed at p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 1st February 2010
Chairman
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Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday,
7th December 2009 in the Village Hall
Present:
Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Roger Jones Rod Russell John Debbage Helen Mann
Peter Crook
George Debbage (District Councillor)
Apologies:
James Carswell (County Councillor)
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
John Debbage declared a personal interest in the planning application for the Fairhaven Trust as he is employed by the trust.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 2nd November 2009 were agreed to be correct, after the addition of the representatives for the St Lawrence Committee and the Carnival Committee, and were signed by Arthur Lawn, as chairman of the Parish Council.
Matters Arising:
1. A letter of thanks has been received from the Royal British Legion for the recent donation.
2. The clerk sent off the Council’s comments on the East of England Plan for 2031 onwards; the council only supports further development for the county so long as there is adequate infrastructure and so long as the need is proved.
3. BDC has acknowledged the Council’s response to the Site Allocations Development Plan Document - Late Potential Development Sites. The draft document, setting out BDC’s favoured options for development sites should be published for comments in Summer 2010.
4. Meeting to discuss the proposed skateboard park has been arranged for February.
5. The pond has been cleared out. The Council thanked Roger Jones for carting away the spoil and Peter Crook for cutting up some logs around the edge.
6. Peter confirmed that he has cordoned off the tower at St Lawrence’s as some debris has fallen from the tower.
7. BDC has suggested that a litter bin could be sited outside Fairhaven Garden.
8. There was a report on the recent South Walsham Homewatch meeting, which was well attended. The meeting decided that the village would set up its own Homewatch group while the regional system is being changed. John Atkins was appointed Homewatch Co-ordinator for the village and several residents offered to be co-ordinator for their street or part of their street. Any correspondence received from the police about local crimes will be sent to local co-ordinators via email.
9. NCC have carried out work on the footway along The Street to maximise the width.
Public Forum:
1. PC Emily Hasthorpe gave a report that three cars had been broken into recently, in the village. A priority setting meeting will be held on 6th January at Lingwood.
2. George Debbage reported that the Boundary Commission has recommended a single unitary authority for the whole of Norfolk.
3. A resident objected to the plans to carry out some planting along the front of the Green.
4. There were complaints about drivers driving too fast along Broad Lane and complaints that the speed limit had not been extended along the whole of the road. It was explained that this has been raised with NCC several times, but that the County Council views this location as being outside the village and that therefore a speed restriction would not be successful.
Correspondence:
1. Churchyard lighting: The Parish Council was approached for a contribution towards the cost of improvements to the lighting in the churchyard. Arthur Lawn gave a report of the electrical repairs needed to make the lighting more efficient. Councillors then queried whether the Parish Council should get lighting checked elsewhere in the parish. Peter Crook offered to discuss this with an electrician.
2. Blofield Tennis Club has requested a grant. It was decided that it was no appropriate to use public funds for this as it is outside the village and the facility is not used by many residents.
3. Cricket club:
i) they wish to cut back some trees from the copse on the far side of the playing field. Councillors noted that there are two memorial trees planted in the copse; one for Neville London and one for Princess Diana, and that these should be protected. It was agreed to take a look at the site in the daylight so that a better decision could be made.
ii) there is a report of moles on the playing field.
iii) the club reports that repairs are needed for the pavilion, costing about £300 in materials. The councillors requested further details.
iv) there were complaints about the changing rooms. These are being improved at present.
4. NCC has stated that School Road is not included in the gritting routes. The clerk will ask for this to be reconsidered.
5. A letter has been received from Stop Norwich Urbanisation (SNUB). This was noted.
6. The Greater Norwich Development Partnership Joint Core Strategy has been received. At this stage it is just a question of whether the process was sound, not the details. South Walsham is designated as a "service village" which means that small-scale housing development will be permitted, along with small-scale employment or service development. Councillors supported the document.
7. The quote for the 2010 grasscuting has been received; £4499 + VAT for the year. This was approved, subject to adjusting the price for the playing field as part is to be cut by the cricket club.
Treasurer’s Report:
Balance b/f at 3rd November 2009 7,347.76
Receipts:
Bank interest 0.38
Mooring fee 25.00
Football club ground rent 150.00
SWPCC - share of Baker money 2,424.99
Boys’ football rent 75.00
Acle PC - share of exps 84.28
BPC - share of exps 14.05
BPC - share of training grant 14.00
Woodbastwick PC - share of exps 14.05
Woodbastwick PC -s hare of training grant 18.83
Upton PC - share of exps 28.09
Funeral fees 280.00
Cheques for payment:
P Crook - domain name fee 10.22
CPRE - subs 29.00
EON dd - electricity 9.00
P James - clerk’s fee and exps 309.19
D Starkings - hedge cutting 125.93
Factory 1st - village hall cooker 1,265.00*
M Dennis - cooker hood 306.58*
T Quirk - work at pond 347.30
Garden Guardian - grass cutting October 635.95
Acle PC -share of exps 103.22
Norfolk Pension 56.11
SW Village Hall - room hire 470.75
Balance c/f at 7th December 2009 6,808.18
Savings Account 8,903.57
JCBF monies 5,877.77
Total monies 21,589.52
* These items are paid out of the £3,000 grant agreed for refurbishment of the village hall. Payment of items which include VAT maximises the Council’s grant. £38.41 of the grant remains unused.
Planning:
i) Mr Corson, Staithe Cottage, Wymers Lane - retrospective application for boardwalk behind existing quay heading. The councillors had no objections to the plans.
ii) Fairhaven Garden Trust - replace existing quay heading and raise the site by 300mm to alleviate spring flooding. (John Debbage declared a personal interest in the planning application for the Fairhaven Trust as he is employed by the trust.) The councillors had no objection to the plans.
iii) Correspondence from the owner of land to the east of Ranworth Road requesting support for a future planning application. The councillors agreed that they would not make any comments on any planning proposal until a formal application is made.
Litter Collection at the Staithe:
The clerk has reminded the Broads Authority that they had agreed to consider financing an additional bin at the staithe.
A site meeting has been promised to consider the replacement slipway.
The Broads Authority were also reminded to contact Broadland District Council about extending the car park in order to support proposals to widen the usage of the slipway.
Phone Box at Panxworth Road:
Peter gave a report; he has completed the forms to purchase the phone box for £1. Peter also offered to spend some time renovating the phone box before it is moved to the Green as a decorative feature, with no working telephony. There have been several offers of help with the costs. It was agreed to budget £500.
Recreation Ground Licence with Norfolk County Council:
Peter and Ken gave a report; the draft licence is for 10 years from 1st January 2010, for £700 pa for the use by the school of the car park in front of the village hall. Occasional use of the playing field is proposed at no additional cost to the school. Norfolk County Council would not contribute to the costs of refurbishment of the rear car park. £600 of each annual rental payment will be saved for future repairs.
Speed Reduction in School Road:
The Head of Fairhaven School has asked if the Parish Council would consider matching fund-raising to install a flashing speed sign in School Road. It was agreed to make a decision after the footway assessment has been carried out. The clerk was asked to state the Council’s support for safety improvements.
The Green:
Work on the flower beds will start in the Spring.
Cemetery:
Peter offered to cut down the conifers in the middle of the cemetery. This was agreed. It was agreed to discuss additional work at the next meeting.
Any Other Business:
1. The councillors sent their congratulations to the school for the recent good Ofsted report.
2. The School has suggested that the recycling credits from the bottle bank behind The Ship were supposed to go to the school’s finances, instead of to the Parish Council. Arthur Lawn agreed to discuss this with the landlord.
3. Peter offered to cut back the vegetation behind the pond and to remove some branches on the willow trees to improve access.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.20 p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 4th January 2010
Chairman
...........................................................................................................................................
Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday,
2nd November 2009 in the Village Hall
Present:
Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Roger Jones Rod Russell John Debbage
Peter Crook
George Debbage (District Councillor)
Apologies:
Helen Mann
James Carswell (County Councillor)
PC Emily Hasthorpe
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
None.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 5th October 2009 were agreed to be correct and were signed by Arthur Lawn, as Chairman of the Parish Council.
Matters Arising:
1. A letter has been received raising the apparent lack of care shown by parents when walking with their children to and from the school. The school has been recommended to contact the Norfolk County Council Transport Officer for advice on reducing vehicle speeds near to the school.
2. Broadland District Council have stated that they believe there are adequate bins at the staithe, as their bins are only to collect waste arising from the highway, and not from tourists or boat owners. They have invited comments from the Broads Authority. No correspondence has been received from the Broads Authority. It was agreed that this would be discussed at the next meeting.
3. Fairhaven Gardens have offered to host a collection vehicle for waste electrical goods. BDC will be informed and will arrange a suitable date.
4. It was agreed to publicise the new website address in The Mardler.
Public Forum:
1. George Debbage discussed the litter collection at the staithe and suggested that a meeting be called with the Broads Authority and Broadland District Council since the area is important for tourism.
Correspondence:
1. PC Emily Hasthorpe sent a report that there have been no recorded crimes in the village since the last meeting.
2. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust has asked for details of the landowners at South Walsham meadows.
3. It was agreed to give a donation of £30 to the Royal British Legion (s.137 payment).
4. Details of the East of England Plan for the year 2031 onwards. This has been circulated and it was agreed that Ken would summarise the councillors’ comments.
Treasurer’s Report:
Balance b/f at 6th October 2009 1,619.75
Receipts:
Training Grant 24.50
BDC - 2nd half precept 7,161.00
Bank interest 0.37
Cheques for payment:
E.ON - electricity DD 9.00
P James - clerk’s fee and exps 561.22
Acle PC - share of exps 23.55
Pension Fund 54.39
Garden Guardian - grass cutting 635.95
Royal British Legion s.137 30.00
Adventure Playgrounds - repairs 143.75
Balance c/f at 2nd November 2009 7,347.76
Savings Account 8,903.57
JCBF Account 5,877.77
Total monies 22,129.10
It was noted that the village hall would purchase a new cooker with the remainder of the £3,000 donation from the parish council.
Planning:
i) Mr Thackery, Fleet House, Fleet Lane - replacement of extant planning permission - first floor extension - in order to extend time limit for implementation. The councillors had no objections.
Planning Appeal:
i) The appeal by Mr & Mrs Murrell for a cattle shed on land at Hemblington Road was refused by the Inspector.
BDC Site Allocations Development Plan Document - Late Potential Sites:
The Parish council has suggested land to the east of Ranworth Road, where there are currently some disused sheds and barns. BDC had marked this site wrongly to include a garden plot. It was agreed that the Council would support development on the brownfield land, but would not support development on the garden site.
Skateboard Park:
It was reported that Helen Mann has met with a couple of interested parties and the plans will be reviewed in the new year to see if there is adequate support to continue with the project.
Website:
The website has a new name, www.southwalshamvillage.org. It was agreed to review the website after a year to see what improvements were needed but everyone agreed that the site was very good and thanked Peter for his help with this.
Playing Field and Car Park:
Peter and Ken gave a report. NCC has replaced the manhole covers with more substantial ones, at NCC’s cost. The life of the current car park is considered to be about ten years, so the Parish Council must save enough money from the annual income to meet this cost of 50% - the other 50% to be paid by NCC. NCC have agreed to pay more for the annual licence for using the car park and playing field for the school. The rear car park will be excluded from any agreement.
The Green:
John gave a report. Four flower beds are needed to go across the front of The Green. This was agreed.
It was confirmed that the Women’s Institute is interested in maintaining the flower beds and also planting at the entrance to the village. The clerk will contact NCC for a licence to cultivate. Fairhaven Gardens will sponsor the planting.
Phone Box at Panxworth Road:
BT has offered the Parish Council the opportunity to adopt the phone box at Panxworth for £1.
There were 19 calls made from this phone box in the past 12 months. After some discussion it was agreed that the phone box would not be kept in its current location in Panxworth Road, but it might be considered if it could be moved to The Green to be a decorative feature, without working telephony. Peter offered to investigate the options.
Cemetery:
The cost of the removal of the conifers had come in higher than anticipated. It was also agreed that the taller conifers along the side of the cemetery need to be topped. Ken offered to obtain some quotes for this work. It was agreed to try planting a new hedge again between the cemetery and the playing field.
Tree Report at Churchyard:
Citycare have carried out the inspection report on the limes at the churchyard. All the trees are noted as being of good physical condition, but one is noted as being of poor structural condition and it is recommended that this one be felled. The removal of the epicormic growth and dead wood is suggested, and four are recommended for pollarding.
It was agreed that the clerk should send the specification out for quotes for the work and then approach BDC for grants and for permission for the work to be done. Peter offered to buy the wood from the tree which is to be felled. This was agreed.
Councillors’ Roles:
Play area Helen Mann
Churchyard Roger Jones
Burlingham Road Wood Helen Mann
The Green Peter Crook
Burlingham Road Play area John Debbage
Staithe Roger Jones and Rod Russell
Cemetery Arthur Lawn
Pilson Green pond Ken Turner
Playing Field John Debbage
Rickety Hill John Debbage
Village Hall Roger Jones
Richard Harrold’s Charity John Debbage and Arthur Lawn (4 years to 2011)
South Walsham Parish Charity John Debbage and Arthur Lawn (4 years to 2011)
Joint Councils Baker Fund Ken Turner, Arthur Lawn and Roger Jones
St Lawrence Committee Peter Crook
Carnival Committee Peter Crook and Helen Mann
These were confirmed.
Any Other Business:
1. Roger has shut the gate behind the village hall after it was found to have dropped. The gate is now padlocked again.
2. It was reported that there is a bit of litter on the verges by Rickety Hill. This will be reported to BDC.
3. Some volunteers did some more work at the Pilson Green Pond.
4. The tower at St Lawrence’s will be cordoned off with some hazard warning tape as it is thought that some rubble has fallen off the tower recently.
5. There has been some flooding in The Street by Harefen.
6. A low wall in Panxworth Road has been reported to NCC Highways.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 7th December 2009
Chairman
............................................................................................................................................
Draft Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday,
5th October 2009 in the Village Hall
Present:
Arthur Lawn Ken Turner Rod Russell
John Debbage Helen Mann Peter Crook
James Carswell (County Councillor) George Debbage (District Councillor)
PC Emily Hasthorpe
Apologies:
Roger Jones
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
None.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 7th September 2009 were agreed to be correct, after one adjustment, and were signed by Arthur Lawn as Chairman of the Council.
Matters Arising:
1. Arthur explained that he spoke to the tenant at The Ship who denied that any activity could have occurred at the bottle bank at 4 am. Broadland District Council have also confirmed that their contractors do not leave the depot until 6 am so could not have been emptying the bins at 4 am. This will be monitored.
2. Peter Crook has very kindly re-fitted the doors to the noticeboards at the bus shelter, with latches rather than locks.
3. The Environment Agency has written to explain that the Broadland Flood Alleviation Project aims to ensure that overtopping during flood events will continue as before, but in a more managed way, sharing out the flooding amongst the flood compartments. They state that flooding will not be made worse by their project and that the undefended Bure and Ranworth marshes will act as a localised relief reservoir. They state that this does not mean that properties are not at risk, nor that it might worsen over time with any climate changes.
Public Forum:
1. PC Emily Hasthorpe introduced herself; she is a police constable stationed with Acle Safer Neighbourhood Team. She gave a report on recorded crimes and was asked to monitored vehicles speeds past the primary school.
2. James Carswell offered to take up the request for speed reduction with Norfolk County Council. He also reported that Norfolk County Council has decided to request the status quo of a county council and the existing district councils.
3. George Debbage reported that BDC has decided to continue with working on further plans, presuming that the unitary status will not happen.
4. There were complaints about the litter bins at the staithe being inadequate to hold the litter from visiting boats. George offered to raise the issue with BDC.
Correspondence:
1. Councillors are invited to the BDC Annual Meeting with Parishes on Wednesday, 28th October.
2. Residents and councillors are invited to the official opening of Burlingham Woodland Walks on Friday, 23rd October at 10.00 at Burlingham Woods.
3. An invitation has also been receive to the Open Day at Caister Depot on 6th October.
4. BDC has sent details of a Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment event which could be run locally. Residents are encouraged to hand in unwanted equipment which is then taken away by BDC to be sorted and recycled where possible. The councillors supported this suggestion.
5. BDC has stated that the litter bin on the staithe is on private land and as such will no longer be emptied by BDC, unless this is paid for.
6. BDC has also said they will not fund an additional bin at the Broad Lane car park unless paid for as these bins are for highways rubbish, not for rubbish from people on visiting boats. It is hoped that the Broads Authority might help to fund litter collection.
7. The East of England Regional Assembly has invited comments on the East of England Plan.
Treasurer’s Report: £
Balance b/f at 8th September 2009 1,780.70
Receipts:
Bank interest 0.41
Burial fees 308.00
Beighton PC - reimb. Costs 9.63
SW Village Hall - water 808.88
Cheques for payment:
K Hope - lock 26.56
E.On - electricity DD 9.00
Anglian Water DD 509.37
P James - clerk’s fee and exps 299.59
Acle PC - share of exps 48.02
Norfolk Pension 52.57
Mazars - external audit 327.75
Brady - supplies 10.01
BADCOG - subs 5.00
Balance c/f at 5th October 2009 1,619.75
Savings Account 8,903.57
JCBF 5,877.77 Total monies 16,401.09
The above cheques were approved for payment.
The Annual Return for the year to 31st March 2009 has been approved by the external auditors, without comment.
Planning:
i) Environment Agency, Right Riverbank, River Bure and Fleet Dyke - removal of dilapidated piling. The councillors had no comments on the plans.
Skateboard Park:
Helen reported that there had been no meeting since the summer. It was agreed that this project would be shelved unless there were any new interest from residents.
Website:
Peter will register the new name for the website shortly.
Norfolk County Council Licence:
Peter reported that Norfolk County Council have looked at the car parks at the village hall. They will not pay for repairs to the rear car park but have said that they could do the work for £38,000. They feel that the front car park will last another 5 years and they would then pay for 50% of the repair costs. Meanwhile NCC will pay for new, heavy-duty manhole covers to be installed.
Peter and Ken have drafted a new licence and are meeting with NCC again shortly to discuss this.
Pilson Green Pond:
Quirks have quoted £28 per hour for 13/14tonne 360 excavator and operator, plus delivery of £95 each way. This was accepted. Roger Jones will cart away the spoil. It was agreed that the reeds will be removed and the edge tidied up. The nearby pipes will need to be marked in bright tape so they are visible to the operator.
Another working party of volunteers will be continuing work in November.
The Green:
There was a suggestion that raised beds constructed from railway sleepers could be installed along the roadside edge of The Green. It was agreed to ask the WI if they would like to be involved in the planting of these if the Council purchased the sleepers. John Debbage was authorised to buy sleepers up to £200. Peter offered to contact the WI.
Footways in the Village:
NCC has programmed work on the footway in The Street to remove any soil where possible to make the footway as wide as possible.
A request for a footway in School Road will be considered and NCC will be asked to clear the banks back to widen the road.
In Panxworth Road it was reported that the surface is damaged and a new wall has reduced the width of the footway.
Any Other Business:
1. Six tickets for the firework display will be purchased for the volunteers who worked on Pilson Green pond.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 2nd November 2009
Chairman
££
.............................................................................................................................................
Draft Minutes of the Meeting of South Walsham Parish Council held on Monday,
7th September 2009 in the Village Hall
Present:
Arthur Lawn Ken Turner RogerJones Rod Russell
John Debbage Helen Mann
George Debbage (District Councillor)
Apologies:
Peter Crook
James Carswell (County Councillor)
PC Emily Hasthorpe
Declarations of Interests in Items on the Agenda:
None.
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting held on 6th July 2009 were agreed to be correct and were signed by Arthur Lawn as chairman.
Matters Arising:
1. Arthur Lawn, Rod Russell, Peter Crook and the clerk met with Adrian Clarke of the Broads Authority at the staithe. Mr Clarke was satisfied that the Broads Authority has the responsibility for the piling to the left of the slipway and for the slipway itself and asked for copies of the quotes the Parish Council had obtained for the replacement so that he can investigate options for repair and replacement. The clerk has written to G & H Services to cancel the order for the repairs.
Various options were discussed for the use of the slipway. Mr Clarke felt that the BA would require greater public access to the Broad via the slipway in return for spending money on the replacement slipway. He will investigate whether a slightly larger number of keys could be given out, and the impact monitored. It was felt that the car park would need to be extended. It was agreed that neighbours would be consulted when the BA makes any proposals. A parishioner who lives near to the slipway reported a problem with fishermen parking at the staithe at night.
Mr Clarke also offered to arrange for signs to the car park to be put up directing users away from the slipway and to consider providing additional litter bins as the BDC bin in the car park is frequently over full.
2. Ken Turner reported that the lock had been repaired on the gate at the rear of the churchyard and the police informed.
3. The white lines have been repainted in the car park.
4. There were reports of noise at the bottle banks very early in the morning over the summer.
5. The volunteers have built a bridge at the rear of the pond. The councillors sent their thanks for this work.
6. Letters of thanks have been received from the Acle and District Girl Guides and Acle First Responders for the recent donations.
Public Forum:
1. George Debbage gave an update on the appeals against the Boundary Commission’s proposal. He also talked about the proposed eco-town at Rackheath and the plans for the Norwich Hub at Salhouse.
2. There was some discussion about the BDC potential sites consultation; the next consultation is expected from BDC in December showing BDC’s preferred sites for development. Residents will be able to comment on the proposals at this stage.
3. There were some comments on the usage of the slipway.
4. It was agreed to ask the Joint Councils Baker Fund to consider the levelling of graves at the cemetery.
Correspondence:
1. There was a request for a grant from Norfolk Lowland Search and Rescue, Macmillan Cancer Support, Samaritans and the Norfolk and Norwich Association for the Blind. The councillors agreed not to give any donations, however worthy the organisations, as they felt it was not good use of public funds.
2. Norfolk County Council will shortly be installing raised kerbs and textured paving at the bus stops at Pilson Green in order to make them compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.
3. The Village Hall has asked if Roger Jones wishes to continue at Parish Council representative. He confirmed his willingness to continue.
4. Councillors and residents were invited to the Safer Neighbourhoods Team Acle Area Priority Setting Meeting.
5. The Norfolk Waste Partnership is holding a conference on 21st October. The clerk will attend.
6. BDC has announced a series of workshops for councillors and clerks on “creating and maintaining sustainable communities”. The clerk will attend some of the sessions.
7. John Debbage gave a report on the footpath along Fleet Dyke; the path was very overgrown with thistles, but has recently been cut. It was agreed to monitor the condition of the path.
John also reported on the tree surgeons’ meeting at the Broads Authority. It was felt that this was simply duplicating an already successful scheme run by BDC.
11. There was a report that The Green was used for parking recently, without the Council’s permission. People drove across the verges to access the grass. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting.
12. The RoSPA report was received over the summer; only minor repairs are required. The clerk was authorised to get these repairs carried out.
13. PC Emily Hasthorpe sent a report of one recorded crime in August; theft of lead from Church.
Treasurer’s Report: £
Balance b/f at 7th July 2009 1,661.96
Receipts:
Tsf from JCBF 958.00
Tsf from savings account 1,500.00
Reimb. WPC 9.63
Cricket club - rent and water 338.00
Bank interest 0.95
Slipway fees 55.00
Cheques for payment:
Play Safety - inspection 217.35
Roger Tyrrell - work at churchyard 1,101.70
EON - electricity DD 18.00
Norfolk Pension Fund 55.54
Seton - equipment and paint for lines 274.57
Wilkersons - supplies for work at pond 63.68
SW Village Hall - rent of room 18.20
Garden Guardian - grass cutting 635.95
Acle PC - reimb of costs 37.86
P James - clerk’s fee and exps 319.99
Balance c/f at 7th September 2009 1,780.70
Savings Account 8,903.57
JCBF 5,877.18
Total monies 16,561.45
The above payments were approved.
Planning:
i) Mrs Attfield, 1 Town Green Barns, Old Newport Road - external flue (20091055). The councillors had no objections to the plans.
ii) Environment Agency - flood defence improvements for Horning Marshes. The councillors decided to make no comments on the plans. There were concerns that the flood alleviate scheme leaves low-lying areas of South Walsham and Ranworth at risk of flooding.
Planning results from Broadland District Council:
1. Broadland Housing Association, land at Burlingham Road - erection of six units of affordable housing - full approval.
2. Miss Elliott, 37 Panxworth Road - two storey side and single storey front extension- full approval
Skateboard Park:
Investigations continue into grants and prices.
Website:
The draft website was approved by the councillors and will be launched shortly. The councillors sent their thanks to those involved.
NCC Licence:
Ken Turner and Peter Crook wrote to Norfolk County Council to explain that the existing licence for the car park and playing fields for the school was inadequate, given the change in volume of traffic. Norfolk County Council have stated that they will pay 50% of the costs to upgrade the car park, and supply the staff. They will not pay for the rear car park but will provide a suggested specification. NCC will also draft a revised licence to reflect the current usage and will propose a new fee. The level of fee does not impinge on the primary school’s budget. The headteacher was present at the end of the site meeting and was appraised of the proposals.
The parish council will therefore need to budget for repairs to the car park at some point in the near future.
Pilson Green Pond:
(Ken Turner declared a personal interest as he owns the property overlooking the pond.)
It was reported that the volunteers did a very good job on clearing around the pond and it is now possible to walk right round the pond. It was agreed that free tickets to the fireworks display would be offered to the volunteers.
The clerk was asked to obtain a quote for a tracked machine to clear the reeds from the pond and the overhanging branches. Roger Jones would cart away the spoil.
Any Other Business:
1. The clerk will contact CityCare to ask them to go ahead with the tree survey on the limes at the churchyard. No grant has been forthcoming from BDC. A grant will be sought for the work that is recommended as a result of the tree survey.
2. Following the removal of the glass doors from the noticeboards at the bus shelter, it was reported that the notices are blowing off the boards. It was suggested that the doors should be refitted, but with a catch, rather than a lock.
3. Thanks were sent to Rodney Pratt, for tidying up the heater pieces on Broad Lane/ Wymers Lane.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.00 p.m.
Signed......................................... Dated: 5th October 2009
Chairman
