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The parish of Buckland Brewer lies in the rolling countryside of north Devon. The area is primarily agricultural both livestock and arable. Although lacking coastline, the north part of the parish is only some 3 miles from the sea. It is a perfect place to base your family for a “stay-cation”.
Buckland Brewer village is the main settlement with a number of amenities. The village tops out at over 150 metres (500 feet) above sea level. There are 314 dwellings with a population of 794.
Bideford and Torrington are the closest main towns, both about 10km (6 miles) distant. The market town of Holsworthy is about 18 km (11 miles) away.
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING OF BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY, 12th JUNE 2013 AT 8.00PM AT THORNHILLHEAD METHODIST CHAPEL
Members Present: Mrs Barbara Babb, Mr Andrew Hewitt, Mr Jim Lowe, Mr Trevor Mills, Mrs Kate Slocombe Mrs Shirley Tilley, Mr David Watson,
Also in attendance 7 members of the public, PC John McGovern (PCSO), Clair McIntosh (R Hicks & Co.) and Beth Simons (Bluecoats Children’s Centre)
Parish Clerk: Patrick Blosse
KEY: Actions are shown in blue type Decisions are shown in red type
939 Apologies for Absence
Mr David Lloyd and Mr George Heywood
940 Minutes of the Meeting of 8th May 2013
The minutes of the meeting held on 8th May 2013 and the AGM on 22nd May 2013 were confirmed and signed.
941 Declarations of Interest
Barbara Babb in relation to the new housing development.
942 Public Speakers
One member of the public registered disappointment that the agenda had not specified which wind turbine was to be discussed. The clerk apologised for the oversight. The Chairman explained that it concerned the potential turbine at Bowden Farm. The member of the public chose not to speak any further on the issue.
943 PCSO Report
There was discussion about the van reported as sticking out into Gorwood Road. Jim Lowe is to write to the owner mentioning that the matter has been brought to the PCSOs attention. John McGovern reported that there had been no crimes reported in the parish in the past 2 months and was looking forward to being able to report a crime free year. There had been changes in staffing at the station with the appointment of Sgt. Paul McWhinney as Torridge Neighbourhood Team Leader and Insp. Andy Brock as Sector inspector for Torridge and Bideford. He and PC Dick Rowlands had spent most of their time on crime prevention activities, running action days, visiting libraries etc. He gave an overview of crime figures for the Torridge area and explained that crime figures were down all over the county. This seems to have coincided with improved relations between police and the public. Kate Slocombe asked if he could patrol close to the school at key times but PCSO McGovern explained that would depend on any calls they had to attend.
944 Bluecoats Children’s Centre: Presentation by Beth Simons
Beth Simons wanted to raise awareness of what the Bluecoats Children’s Centre does in caring for the needs of 0-5 year olds and working together with other agencies, including Parish Councils, to support both the children and their families. The centre is based at Torrington’s Bluecoats school. Every member of staff has an outreach area. Beth’s role is to ensure that events are taken out into the community. They have a ‘Togetherness Programme’ working in partnership with pre-school groups and help with such things as raising Common Assessment Frameworks (CAF), a national procedure for identifying children’s needs. The Centre runs activities such as singing and reading sessions, breast-feeding and smoking support groups. All services are free and they are currently seeking funding support. It was suggested that Beth submits an item for the parish magazine. She can be contacted on 01805 625830.
945 Clerk’s Report
Review of Standing Order. The Clerk reminded members that Councils are recommended to review their standing orders annually. A copy had been distributed to members prior to the meeting and they were asked to review the document and submit any written motions for amendments by 1st July 2013. Item 5.a.xvii does not currently specify a limit on the value of expenditure that can be authorised without the need for a written notice of a motion. He felt that this could be clarified but that he had no other recommendations for amendments.
Correspondence. Various items of general correspondence were distributed including the following that were drawn to the Council’s attention:
3 – Littleham Parish Council Arts & Music Festival (posters previously distributed by email)
5 – Kay Bromhead: Cows on Thornhillhead Moor and related article It was agreed that a copy would be forwarded to Clair McIntosh by the clerk.
7 – DALC News: Food Poverty (Responses requested from members)
8 – DALC Training: Planning Explained. Andrew Hewitt elected to attend.
9 – Petition for Amendment of the National Planning Policy Framework (request for support by signing petition)
10 – Devon Remembers: World War I Memorials Project (feedback and future programme of events) The papers were passed to Mrs Layton to action.
11 – DALC Training: Rising to the Challenge
12 – Application to transfer lease of Plot 12 (It was agreed to transfer allotment plot 12 from Shirley Lulham to her son, Darren, who lives in Orleigh Close)
The procedures for distributing correspondence did not appear to be working. It was agreed that the clerk would prepare a report each month which briefly explained each item of correspondence, which could be distributed to members by email prior to each meeting.
946 Summer Bus
The Chairman reported that arrangements had been put in place to run the Summer Bus Service from 5th July 2013 to the end of August, jointly funded by Buckland Brewer, Parkham, Bradworthy and Putford Parish Councils.
947 Localism Act
No further information had been received about the impact of this legislation.
948 Thornhillhead Moor
Clair McIntosh reported that the six-monthly payment had been received. There had been some problems with cattle getting out but this had stopped since the gaps in the fence had been fixed and there was now more grazing. Works were done by hand because equipment was not permitted during the bird-nesting season. A member of the public said that they had found gates open 4-6 times. Clair reported that this was due to poor latches which she would get replaced or mended. Andrew Hewitt reported that the Council’s public liability insurance did not cover incidents on common land and any issues, such as the recent concerns about dogs, are at the public’s own liability. If stock causes a problem it is the owner’s responsibility. The clerk will investigate insurance cover further and report back at a later meeting. Clair asked if more signs were needed. Andrew Hewitt stated that the previously erected sign had been stolen because it was made of aluminium. It was agreed that more signs would be posted on the gates warning of the presence of cattle.
949 Thornhillhead Communications Mast
Although an acknowledgement was received from the Chairman of Arqiva saying that the matter would receive their attention, no further correspondence had been received so the clerk had sent a reminder on 10th June.
950 Village Hall
S106 Agreement The section 106 agreement in respect of the new housing development had been received and signed by the Chairman. It called for the transfer of 4 plots of land for community use (for a football pitch, community hall, parking and footpath) at the nominal sum of £1, and the payment of £325,000 towards the provision of a new village hall on or before the completion of 20 dwellings. The agreement had been previously distributed by email and the Chairman provided a copy of the plans for each member. Andrew Hewitt said that no resolution had been passed before the document was signed. The Chairman stated that his understanding was that all the members of the parish council were aware of the contents and agreed to its conditions. For the avoidance of any doubt the clerk suggested that a motion should be moved to confirm the Chairman’s action in signing the S106 agreement. The motion was approved by 5:1. (Proposed by Kate Slocombe and seconded by Shirley Tilley) Barbara Babb did not take part in the discussion or the vote.
Letter from the Secretary of the Village Hall Committee A letter had been received from the Village Hall Committee explaining that they were in the process of applying for additional funding for the provision of a new hall. The submission had to be made by early July 2013 and its success could depend on the Village Hall Committee demonstrating that it was exclusively entitled to both the land and the S.106 financial distribution. The Village Hall was therefore seeking a letter of intent from the Parish Council that it would transfer both the land, at its nominal value of £1, and the full value of the financial proceeds to the Village Hall Trustees. In return the Village Hall Committee offered to compensate the Parish Council for any legal and professional fees reasonably incurred. The clerk reminded the members that, whatever, agreement they might enter into, in the event of a new hall not being built within 10 years of the completion of 20 dwellings, the land and financial contribution would be repayable at a rate of interest linked to RPI (probably higher than could be obtained through investment) and that they would need to safeguard against this possibility. Andrew Hewitt felt that independent advice should be sought and Kate Slocombe said that any agreement needed to be ‘watertight’. It was agreed that advice would be sought from Bob Hicks, who acts as the Council’s land agent, and that a letter of intent would be sent to assist with the Village Hall Committee’s application for additional funding. There was some discussion about the potential use of the site of the old village hall and it was agreed that Ian Rowlands of Torridge Planning Department would be informed that there could be a further site suitable for the development of 2 or 3 houses for the purposes of the Rural Settlement Plan.
951 Wind Turbine (Bowden Farm)
The Chairman reported that this issue would probably now be reported at the July meeting of the Torridge Council Planning Committee.
952 Tuckers Park: Tarka Housing
Andrew Hewitt explained that Tarka Housing appeared to have changed their rental policy in respect of these properties, which had originally been given consent as residences for ‘older people’. This was causing problems including parking in the area. It was decided that the Clerk would write to Tarka Housing asking if there had been a change in the renting policy for these houses.
953 Rural Settlement Plan
The Chairman reported that the Rural Settlement Plan had been delivered to Torridge Council on time and that they had been impressed with Buckland Brewer’s contribution. A copy of the narrative submission had been posted on the website and it was hoped that a copy of the plan could be added. A copy is also available at the Community Shop.
954 2013/14 Local Grants
The Chairman explained that £500 had been earmarked in this year’s budget for distribution to organisations in the village seeking grants. An advert would be posted by Jim Lowe in the Village Scene requesting written submissions which will be considered at the Council’s October meeting. The clerk had received a letter from The Voice seeking a donation towards establishing a North Devon radio station. This, and the application previously received from the Playing Fields Association would be considered at that meeting.
955 Members’ Reports
Barbara Babb Reported that works to the road at Thornhillhead had left the road surface so high that water now pours over the gate to the Methodist Church. Jim Lowe will email Julie Petworth in the Highways Department at Devon County Council.
Andrew Hewitt provided photographs of allotment plot 3 which had recently been leased to Catherine Fry. He also reported that plot 15 was in a poor state and ought to be reinstated before it is handed back to the Parish Council. Shirley Tilley said the hedge along one side of plot 15 had been pushed in by the adjoining farmer and it was agreed that this was not the responsibility of the allotment holder. The farmer was aware of the problem and had undertaken to clear it. Andrew asked for the allotments to be added to the next agenda. He also stated that the Council’s insurance policy did not cover the Council on its own land, the notice board etc. Barbara asked if this included the stones on the village green. The clerk will review the issue of insurances and will add the item to the next agenda.
Jim Lowe had attended a Healthwatch event but had found it disappointing and little more than a “talking shop”.
Trevor Mills reported incidents of fly tipping between The Glen and Catsborough Cross. Trevor will email the Clerk with details so that it can be reported to the appropriate body.
Kate Slocombe informed members of a road closure notice she had received for patching works in the village on 27th and 28th June 2013.
Shirley Tilley asked whether the future of Torridge Hospital had been discussed at the Healthwatch meeting. Jim Lowe said that it hadn’t but the Devon Rural Partnership had not met yet.
David Watson had attended a course on Affordable Housing and asked for the item to be added to the next agenda so that it could be discussed fully. David will provide some background papers to be distributed by the Clerk by email. David also pointed out that the road between Buckland Brewer and Parkham was still in a poor state along the stretch within Parkham parish. He asked the clerk to write to Parkham to ask if any improvements could be sought.
956 Planning
Opinions sought:
(i) 1/0384/2013/LBC – Repair of existing chimneys, No 1 Orleigh Court Members wished to make no comment.
(ii) 1/0417/2013/FUL – Change of use industrial unit to agricultural use, 1 Mambury Moor Estate. There was a discussion about the implications of this application being approved and in the light of the units proposed in the Rural Settlement Plan. A vote was taken and members wished to record no objection by 4:3.
(iii) 1/0391/2013/FUL – Installation of 1 no. micro scale turbine (14.97 m to hub, 5.6 diameter blades), Lambert Farm, Langtree Members wished to make no comment.
Decisions:
1/0831/2012/FUL – Erection of wind turbine at Battledown Farm, Buckland Filleigh – application withdrawn (Noted)
957 Accounts
Internal Audit Report. The internal auditor’s report for the accounts for 2012/13 was distributed. The following matters had been highlighted and the actions being taken by the clerk were noted:
From previous year:
Lack of an asset register. Documentation had been supplied by Andrew Hewitt and a valuation has been requested
VAT Overclaim. £97.20 overclaim to be deducted from next VAT claim
Savings Interest had not been made up since October 2008
New Issue:
Bank Reconcilliation Error due to omission of two savings accounts (rectified by the Clerk on the day of the audit)
Bridging Loan. Clerk has agreed to ensure that the Council held an appropriate loan sanction
External Audit became due on 10th June and the return was submitted before that date. The external auditor’s report will be presented to members at a later meeting.
Savings Account balances of £518.46 (Lloyds TSB) and £100 (plus any interest due) have been or are in the process of being liquidated and funds have been transferred to the Council’s current account.
Invoice for Hire of Village Hall Members confirmed their use of the hall on 5 dates during 2012/13 included on a recently received invoice from the Village Hall Committee
Bank balances:
Parish Council Current Account was £2,436.30 as at 31st May 2013
Thornehillhead Moor Account £9,786.09 as at 31st May 2013
Receipts since the last meeting, credited to the account after 31st May. include:
£518.46 transfer into the current account from the closure of the TSB Flexible Savings Account (including £1.87 interest accrued since October 2008). £191.00 wayleaves from BTOpenreach
Application has been made to transfer £100 and any accumulated interest from the national Savings certificate to the Council’s current account. A form has been received that needed to be witnessed but confirmation of this transac0tion has not yet been received. Kate Slocombe witnessed the clerk’s signature.
Payments due (£284.90):
Parish Clerk’s salary, expenses and associated PAYE to 31st May 2013 (£249.90) (Included additional hours due to extra meeting [AGM] and preparing the Rural Settlement Plan.)
Buckland Brewer Village Hall re hall bookings (£35.00)
Confirmation had been received from Barclays Bank that the change in the mandate has been received and actioned.
The meeting closed at 9:50 pm: Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 10th July 2013 (8:00pm School Hall)
Chairman: ……………………………………………………………………….
Date: …………………………………
Buckland Brewer Parish Council
Rural Settlement Plan 2013
Submission to Torridge District Council – Overview
Buckland Brewer is described in the draft North Devon & Torridge Local Plan as a local centre. This means that it is a community with a range of facilities such as a number of shops, a pub, a church, a chapel, a primary school, public transport etc., which could be made more sustainable by an increase of population by development. The draft plan suggests an increase of 19 houses over the next 20 years but the Parish Council believes that if this were accepted a number of the existing amenities could be lost. The village Post Office and shop failed because there were not enough people living in the village to support them. The school loses some potential intake of children because parents cannot find suitable housing that they can afford in the village.
There is a strong feeling within the Parish Council that, by encouraging some development, the age profile of the village could be lowered and couples with young families would be drawn in to use the existing facilities and perhaps to prompt new ones.
There are a number of sites suitable for development within the village, and this is important. The village could suffer if development was allowed to spread haphazardly into the surrounding countryside.
This Rural Settlement Plan will enable villagers to influence future development to their advantage by keeping tighter control on the types of development, encouraging the provision of low cost homes, and providing some houses that would allow working from home, thus reducing traffic. The Settlement Plan also identifies a plot for some light industrial units to promote business start-ups inside the village and ensures that the proposed settlement boundary recognizes within it the village’s green open spaces.
Importantly, residents will be better able to influence how the village develops over the next 20 years, and in the way that they want it rather than by what is imposed by the District Council. The previous structure plan did not include local input and the village suffered as a result. The Parish owns some land within the proposed settlement boundary and parts of this could be allocated for low cost, affordable and rented housing to assist in the process.
Rural Settlement Plan for inclusion in Draft Local Plan
Buckland Brewer Parish Council Submission
To support the North Devon & Torridge Local Plan for 2013 – 2031, the Parish Council was asked to carry out the following :-
Buckland Brewer village is classified in the draft local plan as a local centre. This has been welcomed by the Parish Council both in terms of recognising the role of the village within the wider community, and the acknowledgement of its current facilities, including a primary school, a well known and treasured public house and restaurant, a community shop, a butchers, a sweet shop, a church, a chapel, a daily travelling post office van and a weekday bus service. Planning permission has also been granted for a new community hall.
The Parish Council recognizes that many communities in Torridge would be envious of what the village has been able to sustain. Nonetheless this is not the whole picture. Buckland Brewer lost its commercial shop and post office a numbers of years ago due to lack of numbers. The primary school reached a high of nearly 100 pupils in the 1990s but this has now fallen to 38. The school recently merged with Parkham Primary School, to form the ‘Flying Start Federation’, in order to remain viable. Six pupils are due to leave in July and only three will be starting in September. Although the School has a planned admission number of 7 for each year group, and has the capacity to accommodate that number of children, only four pupils are currently scheduled to join the school in September 2014. The Governors are considering how to alter and expand the school accommodation to ensure that there is adequate provision for a raised PAN resulting from more affordable houses being built in the village.
Its position and facilities mean that Buckland Brewer is an expensive village in which to purchase property. This mitigates against young families moving into and staying in the village, especially with the present financial constraints in the lending markets. As a result, and aided by the relatively large number of bungalows built over the last 25 years, there has been a tendency for older and retired people to move into the village, dramatically affecting the age profile. The latest statistics tells us that the number of children in the village is down in 2011 compared to 2001, whilst the 45-64 age group has increased and the 65-74 age group has nearly doubled. There has also been a significant drop in the 25-44 age group.
The Parish Council is unanimous in its view that, with the right amount and mix of development, including social and low cost single dwellings, and two and three bedroom houses, young families could be encouraged into the village, and those who might have to move out due to economic pressures would be able to stay. It believes that some provision should be made for single occupied dwellings and members also agree that no bungalows should be included in any future developments. The Council believes that keeping or losing the village’s facilities, as listed above, is very much on a knife’s edge. By encouraging appropriate development the Council feels it has a good chance of not only retaining the facilities that the parishioners hold dear, and sometimes take for granted, but could also prompt the provision of new ones.
Housing
There are two housing developments already in the pipeline (and which will not count towards the village’s development target). The first, reference SHA/BBR/3 at Gorwood Road, will yield 24 houses, and secondly reference SHA/BBR/4, that would have yielded a new community hall 9 social houses and 24 open market houses, which has been superseded by a development (reference 1/0716/2012/FULM) that produces a new community hall, 8 social houses and 32 open market houses. This development is currently subject to a 106 agreement.
Torridge District Council has advised that 10% growth up to and including 2031 would require another 19 houses to be built. The Parish Council is unanimous that this is not a sufficient number either to encourage younger families into the village or to maintain the village’s current facilities and services.
With the assistance of local landowners, the Parish Council has identified seven plots that can be developed for open market and social housing and one for light industrial units, and has proposed a revised settlement boundary to include all of these plots. The Council’s wish is that there should be up to 50 new houses built, which could be accommodated on these plots. This is in addition to the 64 properties for which planning permission is already in the pipeline.
Plot 1: The first issue the Parish Council addressed was affordability and the need for social housing, not only for Buckland Brewer but also for the wider area. Members were unanimous in identifying a piece of land known as the Cock Pheasant (Field number 1747, 0.92 hectares) as suitable for a social housing development. It is sandwiched between the Torrington exit and Thornehillhead exit from the village and is owned by the Parish Council. This plot could accommodate up to 20 houses although final numbers would be driven by legislation, finance and the necessary support and management from a housing association. It is anticipated that these properties would not be available to the open market.
Plot 2 is land adjacent to Gorwood Road (Part of field 8854, 37 x 36 m) owned by Mr Alex Dziurzynski, 5 Rickards Row, Buckland Brewer, EX39 5LT, who wishes to build one house on this plot.
Plot 3 is inside the current village boundary, on land owned by Peter Seward, adjacent to Ross House, Ashtons Row, Buckland Brewer, EX39 5LW. (28 x 55m) Mr Seward wishes to build three houses on this plot.
Plot 4 is a piece of land adjacent to the southern side of the land designated for the building of 24 houses in Gorwood Road. This land (ref. SS 4220 NG 0558, 0.815 acres) is owned by William Heywood care of George Heywood, Bowden Farm, Bowden Cross, EX39 5EL.
Plot 5 is a piece of land known as Lower Abbots lying to the east of the village, next to the new 40 house development, behind the school. The land is owned by Fred Babb, ‘Batsons’, Buckland Brewer, EX39 5LN. (Ref. SS 42202675, 0.75 acres)
Plot 6: This land is adjacent to Orleigh Close whereby entrance and exit would be achieved. The Parish council wishes the access road to be improved as part of the development. This will require the displacement of a number of parking spaces which would have to be accommodated within the new development. This piece of land (Field 1382 and 1880, 1.1 hectares) could accommodate up to 30 dwellings. The land is owned by Brian Chappell, Meadow Park, Orleigh Close, Buckland Brewer, EX39 5NY.
Plot 7: This piece of land, which lies behind cottages and houses at the top of Tower Hill entrance, could be gained from Tower Hill by upgrading the existing roadway. The land (ref. Is SS4120 NG 7192, 1.2869 acres) is owned by William Heywood care of George Heywood, Bowden Farm, Bowden Cross, EX39 5EL.
Open Spaces
With reference to green open spaces, the Parish Council has agreed to include the existing playing field, the allotments (Field No.8911) and Buckland Brewer’s AFC football pitch (Field No 8315/9216) within the revised settlement boundary.
Employment
Plot 8: The Parish Council wants to establish a small number of light industrial, start-up workshops (classification B1). It is propose that these should be built on the eastern end of Field 8315/9216. A plot of 37 x 64m has been identified as being suitable for this development and could accommodate about six small units. This development is sited to cause the least inconvenience to villagers from traffic noise and pollution.
Access
Finally, we believe access and egress could be improved to the village. While we recognise this is a Devon County Council decision, there is one stretch of road that falls just outside the parish boundary but nonetheless provides the quickest route to the North Devon Link Road avoiding Bideford. The road between Hoopers Water and Moorhead Cross is not only used as a bus route but also by a high level of commercial vehicles. This single carriage way road needs to be improved and it would help if the number of passing places was increased.
Jim Lowe, Chair: Patrick Blosse, Parish Clerk.
23rd May 2013:
Buckland Brewer Parish Council
Settlement Plan Submission, May 2013
Summary of Public Consultation
The request for the Parish Council’s contribution to the Draft Local Plan was first brought to members’ attention at their meeting on 13th February 2013. Following a general discussion and some initial thoughts by members at its meeting on 13th March 2013 and a presentation by Ian Rowland, Torridge Council’s Senior Planning Policy Officer, it was agreed to hold a Special Meeting in the Village Hall on 2nd April 2013. This was widely advertised on the parish website, notice board and in the village magazine ‘Village Scene’. Nineteen parishioners attended the special meeting. Following a wide ranging debate on the village’s current facilities and future development expectations and the desires of the members and parishioners, it was unanimously agreed to:
It was also agreed at that meeting that, in order to complete the task thoroughly, and to give both members and parishioners more time to consider their responses, the May Parish Council meeting would be dedicated almost entirely to finalising the council’s submission. That meeting took place on 8th May 2013 and was attended by 5 members of the public. The sites, numbers and types of housing and industrial properties included in the submission were agreed in detail at that meeting and it was agreed that the Chairman and Clerk would compile a draft submission to be distributed to members prior to the final submission date of 1st June 2013.
The draft submission and an accompanying revised settlement map were presented to parishioners at the Parish Annual General Meeting held on 22nd May 2013. At this meeting Kate Little, Joint Head of Strategic Planning for North Devon and Torridge Councils, addressed the members and nine parishioners in attendance and examined the draft in some detail, providing useful guidance, encouraging feedback and further background to the planning process and the District Councils’ future development expectations.
BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: Agenda for the meeting on Wednesday 12th June 2013, 8.00pm. Please note the venue will be Thornehillhead Chapel Meeting Room
AGENDA: Business to be transacted at the meeting:
939 Apologies for Absence
940 Minutes of the Meeting of 8th May 2013 and the Annual General Meeting of 22nd May 2013
941 Declarations of Interest
942 Public Speakers
943 PCSO Report
944 Bluecoats Children’s Centre: Presentation by Beth Simons
945 Clerk’s Report
946 Summer Bus Service
947 Localism Act
948 Thornhillhead Moor
949 Thornhillhead Communications Mast
950 Village Hall/S106 Agreement
951 Wind Turbine
952 Tuckers Park: Tarka Housing
953 Rural Settlement Plan
954 2013/14 Local Grants
955 Members’ Reports
956 Planning
957 Accounts
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY, 8th MAY 2013 AT 8.00PM AT BUCKLAND BREWER PRIMARY SCHOOL
Members Present: Mrs Barbara Babb, Mr Andrew Hewitt, Mr George Heywood, Mr David Lloyd, Mr Jim Lowe, Mr Trevor Mills, Mrs Kate Slocombe Mrs Shirley Tilley, Mr D Watson.
Also in attendance, 5 members of the public. Parish Clerk: Patrick Blosse
929 Election of Officers
Mr J Lowe was elected Chairman. Proposed: George Heywood Seconded: Barbara Babb
Mr T Mills was elected Vice-Chairman. Proposed: Jim Lowe Seconded: Kate Slocombe
The following 5 members were elected to comprise the Budget Review Sub-Committee: Jim Lowe, Andrew Hewitt, David Lloyd, Shirley Tilley and Trevor Mills
The following 3 members were elected to comprise the Personnel Sub-Committee:Jim Lowe, Andrew Hewitt and Kate Slocombe
930 Apologies for Absence None
931 Minutes of the Meeting of 10th April 2013 The minutes of the meeting held on 10th April 2013 were confirmed and signed.
932 Declarations of Interest George Heywood and Barbara Babb in relation to any discussion about the use of private land for housing development for the Neighbourhood Plan (Item 935)
933 Clerk’s Report
Allotment Plot 3. The clerk had been contacted by Catherine Fry at 26 Orleigh Close – a new resident – wishing to take on the vacant plot. It was unanimously agreed that the plot should be offered subject to her agreement to the standard terms and conditions. It was also agreed that from this re-let onwards, photographs of the condition of the plot would be taken before handing it over and that the terms should state that the plot should be handed back in no worse state.
Correspondence. Various items of general correspondence were distributed including the following that were drawn to the Council’s attention: 5 – GO North Devon Shopmobility Scheme. Poster and leaflets distributed 10 – Torridge D C. Temporary lack of Tree Advice service 12 – Buckland Brewer Playing Fields Committee. Donation and dog-bin request. The Council agreed to organise the installation of another dog bin but deferred consideration of a grant to a later meeting. 13 – Robert H Hicks & Co. – Single Farm Payment application and Soil Protection Review, required David Lloyd’s signature 15 – Buckland Brewer Shop Committee. Foodbank Collection Point. David Watson reported that arrangements had now been agreed for the shop to provide a collection point. 16 – Healthwatch Devon: Event 6th June at Pollyfields Centre. Limited places, must be booked 17 – Claire McIntosh has advised that Devon Wildlife Trust are holding an educational talk for landowners at Thornhillhead Moor next Monday evening (13th May)
934 Summer Bus The clerk had contacted Parkham, Bradworthy and Putford Parish Councils and all three had agreed that they wanted to run the summer bus service again this year. Putford had asked to make a reduced contribution based on the number of parishioners. Jim Lowe to arrange.
935 Neighbourhood Plan Jim Lowe provided an overview of what had been considered at the last meeting in relation to the Neighbourhood Plan. It was suggested that the football pitch could be used for a small industrial development of about 1 acre (behind the goalposts). Andrew Hewitt said that it was important to be clear about what the Council wanted in terms of traffic noise, pollution, proximity to houses etc. Jim Lowe said that we did not anticipate a factory but small units suitable for 2-3 people offering light industrial/start-up business/workshop accommodation. Andrew Hewitt felt that they should be built with their backs towards the houses and David Lloyd agreed that they should be built and sited with sensitivity. Jim Lowe will ask the Planning Department to provide the appropriate classification code for this type of development. Barbara Babb reminded the Council that they are only custodians of the assets and needed to consider future stakeholders. Andrew Hewitt added that the land owned by the Parish Council needed to bring in an income. George Heywood pointed out that there was another 1 acre field on the Parkham Road but this was not adjacent to the village and could not be brought within a village boundary. Andrew Hewitt described the light industrial units that had been built at High Bickington. These were about the size of double garages. Trevor Mills reminded the Council that our final submission will still be only the Parish Council’s recommendations and that any final planning decisions would still be made by Torridge District Council. Barbara Babb stated that the Council’s Neighbourhood Plan should be in the form of a ‘wish list’ with conditions. David Lloyd pointed out that the last plan had been compiled half-heartedly, that the village had suffered as a result and that this time the Parish Council should be clear about what it wants in order to have half a chance of getting it. Andrew Hewitt said that in addition to the industrial units and housing growth, the plan should also seek road improvements to the ‘bottom road’ from Yeo Vale/Hooper’s Water to Moorhead Cross which would benefit from additional passing places. At this point George Heywood and Barbara Babb left the meeting. Jim Lowe reminded the Council that at the last meeting it had agreed to the use of the Cock Pheasant field as a suitable site for social housing and that TDC was seeking a minimum growth of 19 houses for the period up to 2031. in addition to the 2 sites that already had approval for about 64 properties (including a minimum of 8 for social housing), a number of other sites were considered including a patch offered by Mr Wilson that was not suitable, land off Orleigh Close that could accommodate about 30 houses, land to the rear of the west end of the village for possibly 2 properties, Brian Chappel’s land (which had road and parking issues) and Barbara Babb’s land. Jim Lowe restated that the Parish Council wanted a mix of small and starter homes suitable for attracting young families – possibly 2-bed properties that could be extended later. Trevor Mills said that terraced properties might be more suitable for younger people. Following a general discussion of the sites available and how they fit into a potential revised settlement boundary, it was agreed that Jim Lowe would compile a list of all the sites that the Parish Councillors had agreed and, together with the Clerk, would draft the wording for Council’s submission and complete the forms required. These would be distributed to members in time for them to consider the final draft before its submission by 1st June.
936 Members’ Reports Barbara Babb expressed her disappointment that Alison Boyle had lost her seat at the recent County Council elections and suggested that the Clerk should write a letter of appreciation for her help and hard work since her appointment. This was unanimously agreed by the Parish Council. George Heywood reported that cattle had got out from Thornhillhead Moor. He was concerned about a potential insurance claim and worried about the presence of the barbed wire so close to the road. Andrew Hewitt undertook to find out whose cattle it was. Jim Lowe reported that a van was consistently sticking out into the road in Ashton’s Row (past the shop) and that it should be reported to Ian Rawle (DCC Highways). He also said that he had arranged a litter pick-up session for 10:00am on Saturday 18th May 2013 and encouraged everyone to come along with a black sack. Trevor Mills talked about the general state of the roads and that, although some marking out had been done to indicate that some works might be done, some of the worst parts of the road had been missed. Jim Lowe suggested that the Council should wait to see what work is carried out. Kate Slocombe added her thanks for the work done by Alison Boyle. David Watson said that a signpost was missing at Craneham (signposting ‘Buckland Brewer’)
937 Planning
Opinions sought:
1/0147/2010/FUL –Modification of S106 – Planning Application Proposed site managers supervisory dwelling plus ancillary building, Beech Tree Farm The Parish Council was opposed to this application.
1/0223/2013/FUL – Creation of Wildlife Pond, Retrospective Application, Hembury Orchard, Frithelstock. The Parish Council wished to remind Torridge District Council that they had told TDC about this at the time.
Decisions:
1/0991/2012/FUL – Erection of wind turbine at Babeleigh Barton – Granted Permission (Noted)
1/1077/2012/FUL – Erection of agricultural tractor machinery/stock building and hardcored yard area – Granted permission (Noted)
938 Accounts
Annual Audit. The internal audit of last year’s accounts and Governance Statement had taken place earlier today and were presented to the council for their approval and signature by the Chairman. External audit submission date is 8th June. A print of the consolidated Income and Expenditure Account for2012/13 was distributed to members. (copy attached)
Bank balances: Parish Council Account £2,609.51 as at 30th April 2013; Thornehillhead Moor Account £81,786.09 as at 30th April 2013; Additional balances of £616.59 (plus any accrued interest) are also held in:- a TSB Savings Account (£516.59) and a National Savings Fixed Interest Certificate (£100.00) which the internal auditor has advised should be cashed in as the effort involved in administering and auditing them is not worth the return in interest. Interest has not been made up since 2008. The Parish Council agreed that the funds should be liquidated and transferred to the Council’s current account.
Receipts since the last meeting include: Various field and allotment rents amounting to £46.00, the first instalment of precept of £1,750.00 and settlement of various claims relating to Thornhillhead Moor in the sum of £12,795.42.
Payments due totalling £72,463.70: Parish Clerk’s salary and associated PAYE to 30th April (£195.70) Joining Fee and annual subscription to the Society of Local Council Clerks (£68.00) Repayment of DCC Loan in respect of Thornhillhead Moor cattle grids (£72,000) Internal Audit Fees re 2012/13 (£200.00) (Higher than previous year of £50.00 due to added complexity of Thornhillhead Moor accounts, and likely to be higher again next year.)
Barclays Bank has asked us to complete another copy of the mandate change as we had not returned one part of the form.
The meeting closed at 9:40 pm
Dates of Next Meetings:
AGM – Wednesday 22nd May 2013 (8:00pm Village Hall)
Wednesday 12th June 2013 (8:00pm Thornhillhead Moor)
Chairman: …………………………………………… Date: ………………………
BUCKLAND BREWER VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE
Minutes of the Buckland Brewer Village Hall Committee Meeting, held on 24th April 2013 at 8.00 p.m. Meeting carried forward from 27th March
Present: Trevor Mills (Chair), George and Shirley Tilley, David and Frank Watson, Dawn Dziurzynski, Steve Harding, Alan Sutton, John Bridge, Jo Birch, Derrick Ellis, Tom Lloyd, Margaret and David Lloyd, Kevin Lobb.
1) Apologies: Jim and Jane Lowe
2) Minutes: of the Last Meeting 27th February 2013: Agreed and signed off.
3) Matters Arising: 1) Nikki’s contract has now been completed and signed off. This needs to be reviewed annually. She has signed to take responsibility of the whiteboard. Cash float for £20/£25, Kevin to organise. Dave Watson suggested holding an account in the shop, but it was decided that she hold a float/petty cash. 2) Frank has completed the key holders list.
4) Correspondence: 1) Confirmation letter from TDC we are zero rated. 2) Letter from Lloyds TSB re: staff matched giving scheme. We have received £384 thanks to Kevin’s volunteering work for the village hall. 3) Letter from TDC re: premises inspection which has taken place. We need to update our fire routine to ensure compliance with the condition. Trevor also explained that for the new hall it may not be necessary to have a licence. 4) A news release from ACRE urging village halls to respond to food safety consultation. ACRE support village halls and are campaigning for better support for village hall volunteers overcome red tape etc.
5) Treasurer’s Report: The current balance stands at £44,643.48. There are a few balances still outstanding. The electric is running on the high side but just about breaking even. Accounts are looking slightly better than last year this time. A cheque for £170 has been paid to Devon Air Ambulance. TDC need to be contacted re: payment for exercise classes. Dawn will contact.
6) Update on New Parish Community Hall: Dawn read report from Jane. Jim and Jane have had many telephone conversations re: 106 agreement. After a lot of unfavourable negotiations within TDC we understand that this agreement is now sitting on a desk at TDC awaiting signature. Paul Knox has asked whether we want footings dug. Jim and Jane recommend not, Trevor also backed this up, any footings dug could constitute an existing build and could scupper funding bids also could be expensive and would have to be paid for. Jane has put calls out to Kevin Binmore for update, no reply so far. Pearce expect to start in earnest first week in July. Jane will start funding applications when possible. There seems to be a possible misconception amongst some trustees that we can use the existing hall in budgets for funders. Funders will only fund against guaranteed cash in hand. Prospective sale or auction of the current hall cannot be included as collateral at any stage as there is no income guaranteed against it. We cannot sell or agree to sale until the new hall is up and running. We may be able to use it as additional income in the future.
7) Insurance: Jane had sent a report re: insurance and annual budget saying that we should not expect Kevin to deal with this without consultation with the trustees. This should be put on agenda and cover off on an annual basis. Kevin advised that our insurance cost £500 due in December. Building insured for £103,000, Bowls £18,000 and public liability £5,000,000. Pre-school have their own insurance. David Lloyd suggested we shop around for best deal. John Bridge suggested we get in touch with Community Council for Devon for guidance. Concern was expressed about property being off site. Kevin offered to get 2 quotes and bring to the next meeting. This issue to be on the next meeting’s agenda.
8) Fundraising: 1) Quiz raised £170 with no bar. 2) Jim and Jane have run a Treasure Hunt in Loxhore. Loxhore Village Hall to make donation for “intellectual rights” to Buckland Brewer Village Hall. 3) Jane has raised a ‘£1-a go’ quiz. Possible outlets: The Coach & Horses, Babb’s, Jim & Jane’s. David Watson offered to approach the shop as well. Completed sheets to be handed into Babb’s or Jim and Jane’s. Suggested one cash prize of £20. If equal scores, a supervised draw for first name out. To run from 1st May to 7th June. Sheets to be numbered. Could all trustees please support this as minimal effort is involved. Alan was concerned that all these answers are easily obtainable from the internet. If that is the case and all sheets or correctly completed, first name out the hat will apply. 4) Bideford Bridge Trust, application due 1st June. Jane suggested funds for professional fees, but asked if there were any other suggestions, those being: a) Kevin Binmore costs, b) appliances, c) roof maintenance (general upkeep) d) Heaters as there are some in the hall not working properly. e) Paint for lower half of inside hall. 5) Safari Lunch 12th May. Trevor reported that Brenda would be asking for volunteers shortly. The Village Hall is responsible for the soup course this year. 6) Rosemoor 26th July. Emily Wright and the Royals have been booked. Working alongside Little Torrington again. Please keep note of date. 7) Village Fete 13th July. Please keep in mind. If any organisation could come up with any ideas please speak to Frank. Volunteers maybe needed on the day. 8) Christmas Market 7th December. 9) Beaford Arts invitation for future events promotion. Dawn has booked to go and Jim has said that if he is well enough he would also like to attend. Alan also said he would like to go.
9) Proposal from BBPFA re gazebo: Trevor has received a proposal from the Playing Field Association re: the shared purchase of a gazebo. Alan explained that he had been looking at these for the Playing Field and the cost would be approximately £80. We could store it in the cupboard. It was agreed that storage in the cupboard was not an option. Trevor felt that if we were to purchase a gazebo we would buy something more substantial and as we would not need it often it is not a necessary purchase, we do have access to others. All agreed. A letter to be sent to the Playing Field.
10) AOB: 1) Derrick Ellis asked if all the organisations could review and update their information which goes into the village Welcome Pack. 2) John Bridge thanked Trevor for the light bulbs but after many attempts could still not get one of the hall lights working, the problem may be the starter. Trevor will try to get a different starter. 3) Shirley reported that the catch on the old main door had been left off leaving the door open. Could a notice be put up to make sure everyone checks they have locked it before leaving the hall. 4) Shirley asked if we could check how Littleham organise their film nights. Could it possibly be a ‘film club’? 5) Concern was raised about people entering the hall when it has been hired out. It was decided that two extra skittle alley keys be made to be kept by the chairman and secretary. This would enable people to access the skittle alley for delivering stage/tables etc. without disturbing the hall users. Trevor to organise. 6) The Under Fives Pre-school asked if the hall committee could provide paint for them to decorate the bottom half of the hall. They are prepared to have a working party. This would improve the look of the hall. It was agreed that the hall committee would provide the paint. Yellow to be the wall colour and possibly brown for the skirting board. 7) Following the earlier discussion on insurance and concern about property off site, Frank will make up a list of all property off site and where it is kept i.e. projector, pots & pans, stage etc.
11) Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 15th May at 8.00 pm. Future meetings scheduled: Wednesday 26th June, Wednesday 17th July.
Meeting closed at 9.21 pm
Signed ……………………………………………. Date ……………………………………………
Buckland Brewer Parish Council: Annual Parish Meeting
The Annual Parish Meting will be held on Wednesday May 22nd 2013, at 7.30pm, in the Village Hall. The Guest Speaker will be Kate Little, Joint Head of Strategic Planning for North Devon and Torridge District Council, who will talk about the new District Plan. This will be followed by a report of the Parish Council’s activities over the past year.
Questions from the audience will be welcome.
Light refreshments will be served after the meeting,.
!! WIN £20 CASH IN THE BRAIN TEASER QUIZ !!
£1 PER ENTRY, STARTING 1ST MAY
ENTRY SHEETS AVAILABLE FROM:
COACH & HORSES
BABBS BUTCHERS
JIM OR JANE LOWE 451193, HILLCREST
CLOSING DATE 7TH JUNE – ENTRIES RECEIVED AFTER 5 P.M. ON THIS DATE WILL NOT BE INCLUDED.
COMPLETED ENTRY SHEETS TO BE RETURNED TO BABBS BUTCHERS IN MARKED BOX, OR TO JIM OR JANE LOWE
IN THE EVENT OF A TIE, EQUAL TOP SCORES WILL BE ENTERED INTO A SUPERVISED DRAW AND THE WINNER WILL BE THE FIRST NAME OUT
PROCEEDS RAISED TOWARDS NEW COMMUNITY HALL
Sunday 12 May: 12.30pm
Tickets from:
You’re welcome to bring your own wine and glasses
Proceeds to the Fete funds: Church, Chapel, Village Hall and Churchyard
On the village green, Buckland Brewer.
Brighten up your garden with locally grown plants.
Proceeds to the Fete funds: Church, Chapel, Village Hall and Churchyard
