Agenda for the meeting of Buckland Brewer Parish Council on Wednesday 8th May 2013, at 8.00pm, in Buckland Brewer County Primary School.

Posted on 1 May 2013 by

Agenda for the meeting of Buckland Brewer Parish Council , on Wednesday 8th May 2013, at 8.00pm, in Buckland Brewer County Primary School.

AGENDA: Business to be transacted at the meeting:

929 Election of Officers and sub-committee members

930 Apologies for Absence

931 Minutes of the Meeting of 10th April 2013

932 Declarations of Interest

933 Clerk’s Report

934 Summer Bus

935 Neighbourhood Plan

936 Members’ Reports

937 Planning

Modification of S106 – Planning Application 1/0147/2010/FUL – Proposed site managers supervisory dwelling plus ancillary building, Beech Tree Farm

1/0223/2013/FUL – Creation of Wildlife Pond, Retrospective Application, Hembury Orchard, Frithelstock

1/0991/2012/FUL – Erection of wind turbine at Babeleigh Barton – Granted Permission

1/1077/2012/FUL – Erection of agricultural tractor machinery/stock building and hardcored yard area – Granted permission

938 Accounts

 

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(Draft) MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING OF BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL, WEDNESDAY 10th APRIL 2013

Posted on 19 April 2013 by

(Draft) MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING OF BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY, 10th APRIL 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: Alan Grove (Bideford Foodbank), Alison Boyle (Devon County Councillor), PCSO John Mc Govern and 10 members of the public.

Parish Clerk: Patrick Blosse

909 Apologies for Absence:

None

910 Minutes of the Meetings of 13th March and 2nd April 2013

The minutes of the meeting held on 13th March 2013 and the special meeting to discuss the Neighbourhood Plan on 2nd April 2013 were confirmed and signed.

911 Public Speakers

1. Kay Bromhead told the Council that she had walked over Thornhillhead Moor with her dog and 14 year old daughter earlier in the day and had been alarmed to find cattle grazing. (Kay had posted a comment on the website which was included in the correspondence for distribution.) There was a brief discussion about the rights of the graziers and the use of common land. George Heywood said that it was important to identify who was liable. Jim Lowe reminded the Council that notices that had been erected earlier had been vandalized. Andrew Hewitt drew to the Council’s attention the new Torridge Council dog control orders, particularly in relation to dogs fouling in public places, which would include common land. Shirley Tilley pointed out that in certain circumstances cows will chase dogs. Andrew Hewitt undertook to investigate The Commons Act. Jim Lowe said that he would seek advice from the agents for the moor and would report back to Mrs Bromhead.

2. PC John McGovern explained that he and Dick Rowlands had now taken over Appledore and Northam as well as their existing patch so were now covering the whole area of Torridge north of the A39. He explained that there had been media reports that morning about reductions in the number of PCSOs but this was not entirely true. There was to be some changes in recruitment levels and the use of PCSOs but their numbers were to be maintained. There had been an article in a local paper about blue tape being pinned to peoples gates as an indicator that certain dogs were present and that people claiming to be from Battersea Dogs Home were calling at these properties in an attempt to abduct the dogs. Members and the public were asked to report any incidents. There had been two incidents of damage to vehicles in Buckland Brewer and one drink/drive offence. This compared to 9 incidents that had been reported in the same period last year.

912 Bideford Foodbank – Presentation by Alan Grove

Alan Grove gave a short presentation on the work of the Bideford Foodbank, which is run by the community under a network of churches, for people on welfare benefits, those in debt, people who are victims of domestic violence or who experience similar difficulties. There were 641 recipients last year. Donations of food are collected at supermarkets with additional donations of cash and food from organisations and individuals. Fifty distributors (including agencies like CAB) give vouchers which provide food parcels for 3 days provisions suitable for the particular family size. Each recipient is limited to three vouchers after which they are expected to have found an alternative resolution. The Foodbank also offers advice. It has no specific funding and is run by a small number of volunteers. Overheads amount to about £7,000 per year. Alan asked the Council to offer whatever support it could, whether that was funding, advertising opportunities, providing a distributor or food collection point in the village. Jim Lowe suggested that the Foodbank might like to include an article in the Village Scene (Clerk to provide email address.) Andrew Hewitt suggested they might want a table at the village fete. David Watson undertook to investigate the possibility of a local collection point.

913 Declarations of Interest

George Heywood and Barbara Babb re Item 920 Village Hall

914 Clerk’s Report

• Annual Audit. The clerk reported that the annual audit returns had been received. The date of announcement was set as 11th April – notice to be put on the notice board. The inspection period will be from 28th April to 17th May, during which time parishioners can make an appointment to view the accounts. Submission date is 8th June.

• The Society of Council Clerks The clerk had been contacted by this society, which provides a forum and training for parish clerks. The clerk felt that he would benefit from the training and networking with other clerks and asked if the Council would support his membership. The first year’s membership would be £68 (currently £63 in subsequent years) and training costs would amount to £150 to £250 over two years. The Council approved of the application.

• Correspondence. Various items of general correspondence were distributed including the following that were drawn to the Council’s attention:

o 4 – Email from Torridge District Council re incorrectly calculated council tax bills

o 6 – South Western Ambulance Services Right Care Initiative letter and accompanying DVD

o 9 – The Zurich Insurance premium was due in the sum of £144.59

o 10 – The next meeting of the Torrington Area Advisory Group will be held on 16th April 2013

915 Localism Act

Nothing to report

916 Neighbourhood Plan

This item to be discussed more fully at the next meeting. Jim Lowe reminded members that a drop-in session was being run at Holsworthy Memorial Hall between 5:30 and 7:00pm on Monday 29th April. It was agreed that Jim Lowe, David Lloyd, Andrew Hewitt, George Heywood, Barbara Babb and Pat Blosse would attend.

917 TAP Fund

The clerk explained that he had not yet submitted an application. It had been made clear that a detailed project plan was required and, since it had transpired that funding was being rolled over into 2013/14, he had taken the view that proper plan supported by quotations from interested contractors would receive far greater support than a hastily put together claim. This had already been discussed and agreed with Parkham Parish Council at their meeting on 27th March, which the clerk had attended. The clerk will obtain detailed maps of Buckland Brewer, Parkham and Alwington and will arrange a meeting between the chairmen and clerks to agree a robust scheme. The clerk will contact DCC Highways Department to confirm the works that they expect to do so that there is no duplication of work and will liaise with members to identify the works required.

918 Thornhillhead Moor

The latest claim for repayment from Natural England had been ‘approved for payment’ today and it was expected to be received shortly. The poor workmanship of the cattle grid outside Cole’s yard had been reported but Simon Hill at DCC thought it was immaterial and did not propose to take any action. Andrew Hewitt will apply some protective covering over the barbed wire close to the gates to avoid any harm to horses. George Heywood asked about the 1400m of fencing yet to be done which will require substantial clearance works. Clerk to check progress with Claire McIntosh.

919 Thornhillhead Moor – Communication Mast

The chairman had sent a letter to Arqiva but no reply had yet been received.

920 Village Hall

Jim Lowe report that the S.106 agreement is very nearly agreed and workshops are starting to go up. Kate asked if the developers would pay a visit to the school.

921 Football Club Lease

The clubs lease was originally for 3 years expiring in 2006 and has been rolled over annually ever since in accordance with the terms of the lease. The club would need a longer lease to obtain external funding. The Secretary, Maurice Knuckley, has expressed a wish to start another team and to consider a youth team. Andrew Hewitt expressed his concern about what could happen if they were given a longer lease but then the club were to fail. Mr Knuckley will be asked to come to a future meeting to explain the club’s plans..

922 Tarka Homes

The chairman had sent an e-mail to Councillor David Brenton, Torridge Council’s representative on the Tarka Homes Board, but no reply had yet been received.

923 Summer Bus

No progress had been made on this issue because the clerk had not yet contacted the other Parish Councils.

924 Torrington Cottage Hospital

Following a brief discussion, during which Shirley Tilley expressed her support for the hospital, it was agreed that Andrew Hewitt would put something in the next copy of Village Scene.

925 Footpath Across Churchyard

George Heywood pointed out that there were potholes in the access to the playing field. Jim Lowe said that the PCC did not support any work being done because the Kissing Gate was listed and they did not want to disturb people visiting graves. Shirley Tilley said that scalpings had been provided and it was up to residents to use them to fill-in the potholes themselves. George Heywood wanted to approach the PCC again. Kate Slocombe suggested a working party. Barbara Babb suggested that the Playing Field Committee should undertake the work. Jim Lowe said that he would do this.

926 Members’ Reports

Barbara Babb highlighted the problem with potholes.

Shirley Tilley said that the kerb at Orleigh Close needs repairing.

George Heywood reminded the Council that the new dog control orders related to all spaces that were open to the public including any structures that were open on at least one side. He felt that a good job had been done on those potholes that had been repaired.

David Watson also expressed his concern about the number of potholes.

927 Planning

• 1/0678/95/14/007 Removal of condition 2 of planning permission to allow occupation of existing dwelling as supervisory dwelling, Mambury House

• 1/1110/2000/FUL Removal of condition 1 of planning permission to allow occupation of Mambury House as an unrestricted dwelling. (AMENDED PROPOSAL).

These items had been deferred from the previous meeting pending clearer information. The clerk read a response from the Torridge planning department and Kate Slocombe had been contacted by the owner, Charlie Nicholls. The clerk had received notification today that the application had been granted permission.

928 Accounts

Bank balances:

Parish Council Account £3,797.98 as at 28/03/13

Thornehillhead Moor Account £66,424.44 as at 19/03/13

Receipts since the last meeting include:

• Various field and allotment rents amounting to £693.50and a VAT reclaim for £2,610.23 (of which £2,569.23 will be transferred to the Thornhillhead Moor Account)

Other payments due totalling £495.86:

• Parish Clerk’s salary and associated PAYE to 31st March including 4 extra hours relating to the additional meeting

• Buckland Brewer Methodist Church re hall hire, 8th August 2012

• Annual public and employer’s liability insurance

• DALC Annual Affiliation Fee

The meeting closed at 9:25 pm

 

Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 8th May 2013 (8:00pm Buckland Brewer School Hall)

 

Chairman: ………………………………………………………. Date: …………………………………….

 

 

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MINUTES OF THE BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL MEETING, held on 2nd APRIL 2013.

Posted on 12 April 2013 by

MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING OF BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON TUESDAY, 2nd APRIL 2013 AT 8.00PM AT BUCKLAND BREWER VILLAGE HALL

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 David Watson,

Parish Clerk: Patrick Blosse

Also in attendance 19 members of the public

903 Apologies for Absence

None

904 Minutes of the Last Meeting

It was agreed that the minutes of the meeting held on 13th March 2013 will be confirmed and signed at the meeting to be held on 10th April 2013.

905 Public Speakers

Brenda Mills asked that the road surface in Orleigh Close should take priority before any other developments are considered on the grounds of safety for the children and that pavements should be provided for pedestrians.

906 Declarations of Interest

George Heywood, Kate Slocombe and Barbara Babb declared their interests in respect of plots of land that they wished to be included within the parish’s development boundary. It was agreed that they should take an active part in the general discussion but vacate the room whilst their personal submissions were discussed.

907 The Needs of the Village Until 2031 Within the Context of the Neighbourhood Plan Requirements

The Chairman gave an overview of the purpose of this special meeting, explaining that Buckland Brewer was identified as a Local Centre in the North Devon and Torridge Draft Local Plan due to its combination of resources and services and, as such, was expected to contribute 10% growth in housing provision by 2031 (amounting to a minimum of 19 new houses), as well as identifying suitable opportunities for industrial and recreational development within a defined ‘development’ area. He summarized the draft plan’s expectations in respect of ‘rural areas’, including those areas outside defined development areas, which would be regarded as ‘countryside’ with no growth expectations but that this did not mean that no development could take place in these areas.

The Clerk explained that a letter had recently been received from Torridge Council extending the consultation period for the Neighbourhood Plan to 1st June 2013.

The Chairman explained that the District Councils’ Planning Officer had provided a pack to assist the Parish Council to prepare its ‘Neighbourhood Plan’, which included a useful profile and statistics. He drew particular attention to the rise in age profile over the past 10 years and felt that one of the Council’s priorities should be to agree a development plan that was designed to encourage a reduction in the age profile, principally by providing housing suitable for young families.

David Watson stated that affordable housing was wanted, including housing association properties for rent. He also saw a need for car parking, which must be free, or garages. He was also in favour of small industrial units.

Jim Lowe had walked the village with the PCSO and felt that parking problems were “a bit of a myth”. He said that there was a Catch 22 situation whereby yellow lines entailed enforcement and the associated costs. David Lloyd agreed with this view. David Watson reiterated that people must have somewhere to park. Andrew Hewitt agreed but stated that people were not prepared to park outside the village where space was available. Trevor Mills felt we had already “missed the boat” as far as car parking was concerned and the evening’s discussion would not solve it. Kate Slocombe felt that any development plans should include provision for 2 cars per property. Andrew Hewitt felt that discussion about parking should be dropped. Jim Lowe stated that there was no reason why a comment could not be included in the submission.

Barbara Babb felt that it was important to build enough homes for the people who need them and to develop sensibly so that we did not lose the resources and services that we have. She said that the shops need footfall and that she was in favour of small industrial units. She felt that we should consider the young people who cannot afford housing at present. David Watson pointed out that other people were also looking for housing. Barbara Babb said that we should provide the kind of housing that young people can buy. Jim Lowe felt that financing bodies were asking for deposits that were too high.

George Heywood pointed out that Buckland Brewer benefits from better highways access than many other villages, which often have only single-track roads. He agreed that footfall was needed and reminded the Council that the village had already lost one shop and almost lost its school. He wanted to keep young people here and held the view that “jobs follow chimney pots”. He felt that the plan should create a pool of new families to keep the shops and pub running, but that competition from supermarkets will probably get worse. He was disturbed that you can no longer hear the laughter of children in the centre of the village and that clubs in the village need support and numbers to keep going.

Andrew Hewitt wanted to look at the housing stock that we have. We already have a number of bungalows and large 4-5 bed homes. He said we need 2-bed type accommodation. He pointed out that Torridge had the lowest income per head in the country and that money would be tight for years to come. He had seen the small industrial units at High Bickington and had felt they worked well. He stated that the Draft Plan discourages large vehicles and high traffic volumes and this should be considered in terms of any industrial development. He was in favour of social housing.

David Lloyd discussed the potential for housing on the Cock Pheasant field and explained that increasing parking allowances would impact on density but that it should accommodate 20 – 30 properties (say 20 with more parking than the standard allowance). He said that the Parish Council owns land that it could provide for rented housing and/or industrial units without having to make a profit. As a Parish Council we could establish our own schemes and could earmark or allocate the land straight away. He said that the chance of a young couple buying a house in the village was negligible. Jim Lowe explained that we could earmark land under the terms of a Rural Exception Policy Site (on advice received from Torridge Council). Andrew Hewitt said that, as a Parish Council, we could specify that this was for social housing. Jim Lowe reminded the Council that this was only an exercise in earmarking land. Andrew Hewitt advised keeping the number to the target of 19 houses. David Lloyd advised that we should do it straight away.

Kate Slocombe said that there was a desperate need to encourage children to the village. There were 38 children in Buckland Brewer School and 60 in Parkham. She said that we also need green spaces and the current sewerage system is not up to standard. Orleigh Hill is in acceptable condition but the road to Parkham is very poor. She also said that people who want to develop one-off properties should be encouraged but we should identify plots of land for social housing.

Shirley Tilley highlighted the precarious bus service and stated that we need a better, more viable service. She agreed with all the previous speakers and said that people were having to pay £700 a month in rent and consequently could not save for a deposit. She also felt that developers should be obliged to provide parking for 2 cars per household. She said that there were only 12 bungalows in the village and that these were needed not only for older people but also for the disabled. She agreed that industrial units were needed. She said that village life had changed much in the past 20 years. People who had moved in to the village tended not to join in with village life.

George Heywood reiterated that we had the lowest income per head and that we should take care with the provision of social housing as Holsworthy had experienced only 25% take-up of the social housing they had provided. Jim Lowe explained that he was not in favour of shared-ownership schemes because some form of deposit was still required.

Kate Slocombe was concerned to ensure that the developments already in the pipeline actually result in built houses. Andrew Hewitt felt that they would take at least 3 years. He felt that the Orleigh Close development in the 1970s was the last development that had a positive benefit to the village. He felt that any new developments should be for 2-bed houses extendable to 3-beds. Jim Lowe sympathised with Kate’s frustration about the delay in current developments but pointed out that developers were working within their legal rights and Andrew Hewitt agreed that there was nothing we could do about it.

The Chairman summarized the views put forward so far.

There was unanimous agreement on promoting the Cock Pheasant field for a development of 20+ social housing properties

George Heywood stated that he wanted to see local families in them and David Lloyd said that we could establish our own housing corporation.

908 North Devon and Torridge Local Plan: Part Three Neighbourhood Plan

The Chairman explained that we were charged with identifying proposed sites and drawing a development boundary for the village. He reminded the Council that we have allotments and a football pitch to consider. He suggested that a development of small industrial units could be sited where the football pitch is at present. Andrew Hewitt suggested that they should be further outside the village mainly to accommodate traffic issues. Barbara Babb favoured the Bowden Cross site. Trevor Mills pointed out that more houses could mean a requirement for more allotments. David Watson felt that we might have to start from scratch with allotments and Kate Slocombe believed it would be possible to have 2 sites, one at each end of the village.

It was unanimously agreed to include the present football pitch and allotments within the development boundary.

Jim Lowe suggested giving over half the football pitch to more allotments and half to industrial units. A general discussion ensued about the extent of a possible boundary and the desire for industrial units. Jim Lowe pointed out that there would be a second tranche of consultation at a later date but that doing nothing was not an option as any deficiency in Buckland Brewer’s response would be superseded by Torridge District Council and any deficiency in their plan would be superseded by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (Eric Pickles). Jim Lowe pointed out that the Draft Plan predicts a need for 2,200 extra properties, of which 1,100 are in the pipeline. He felt that Buckland Brewer needed an additional 300 people to make the existing services viable and that this would equate to 50 new houses. Kate Slocombe agreed with this assessment but Andrew Hewitt disagreed. David Lloyd said that numbers in the school had shot up after Orleigh Close was built but that infill housing hadn’t had the same effect because it didn’t attract young families. Southwood Meadows and Castle Meadows had attracted mainly older couples. George Heywood was keen to see enough new people to keep the facilities that we have now viable. Another general debate followed about how quickly the developments already approved would be built. Barbara Babb agreed with Jim Lowe’s assessment of a need for 50 properties. Kate Slocombe stated that the Council should be ambitious and warned that if we set the target low we would achieve little. Trevor Mills said that we wouldn’t have control over farmers developing barns, or any other developments outside the boundary, and that these should be taken into account. He felt, therefore, that the Council’s target ought to about 25 within the boundary. David Lloyd held the view that properties outside the boundary would not be occupied by people who would use many of the village facilities. Trevor Mills said that they would probably use the playschool.

George Heywood said that we need people to create enterprise that will create jobs to get the economy working. Shirley Tilley felt we should go for the maximum that we could get, although it was generally agreed that it would be future planners who ultimately decide that. Kate Slocombe, George Heywood and Barbara Babb all agreed that 50 units should be the minimum included in the Neighbourhood plan. Barbara also stated that it was important for existing parishioners to be welcoming to new families. David Watson was not sure about the need for 50 units and agreed with Trevor Mills’ assessment of 25 houses. He wanted to see a plan that would entice people who would make a contribution towards the village but was uneasy about the number of houses proposed by Jim Lowe.

Jim Lowe summarised the views about the number of properties as showing 6 councillors in favour of 50 or more properties and 3 in favour of about 25 properties within the development boundary.

Kate Slocombe, George Heywood and Barbara Babb left the meeting at this point.

The Clerk read out correspondence from a number of parishioners who had asked for some of their land to be included within the development boundary, as follows:

Peter Seward – 3 additional houses within the boundary of Ross Cottage and adjoining land

Mr & Mrs Chappel- land off Orleigh Close that could accommodate a development of 20 properties

Kate Slocombe – a plot of land within their garden suitable for one property

George Heywood – a plot of land south-west of the village suitable for 3 houses.

Jim Lowe identified a further plot of land owned by Mr & Mrs Babb suitable for one property and reminded the Council that they had agreed a boundary change at an earlier meeting to include a plot owned by Mr Leon Dzuirnynsky in Gorwood Road.

It was agreed that it would be possible to include all of these requests within the development boundary with the exception of Kate Slocombe’s property, which lies some distance from the village and it would not be possible to include the intervening area as development land.

It was proposed by the Chairman, and unanimously agreed, that a second meeting should be held specifically for the purpose of discussing the Neighbourhood Plan. This would give Councillors and parishioners more time to consider the proposals discussed at this meeting. Due to time constraints it was agreed that the monthly Parish Council meeting scheduled for 8th May should be cleared of any non-urgent items so that the Neighbourhood Plan could be given due weight. The meeting will be held in the Village Hall.

The meeting closed at 9:35pm.

Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 10th April 2013 (8:00pm Buckland Brewer School)

Chairman: ……………………………………………………………………….

Date: …………………………………….

 

 

 

 

 

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Buckland Brewer Parish Council: Agenda for Meeting, Wednesday 10th April 2013

Posted on 5 April 2013 by

 

Buckland Brewer Parish Council: Agenda for Meeting, Wednesday 10th April, Buckland Brewer Primary School, 8pm.

Business to be transacted at the meeting:

909 Apologies for Absence

910 Minutes of the Meetings of 13th February 2013 and 2nd April 2013

911 Public Speakers

912 Bideford Foodbank – Presentation by Alan Grove

913 Declarations of Interest

914 Clerk’s Report

Annual Audit – Date of Announcement 11th April, Inspection Period 28th April to 17th May, Submission by 8th June 2013

Application for Membership of the Society of Council Clerks

Correspondence

915 Localism Act

916 Neighbourhood Plan

917 TAP Fund

918 Thornehillhead Moor

919 Thornehillhead Communication Mast

920 Village Hall

921 Football Club Lease

922 Tarka Homes

923 Summer Bus

924 Torrington Cottage Hospital

925 Footpath Across Churchyard

926 Members Reports

927 Planning

1/0678/95/14/007 Removal of condition 2 of planning permission to allow occupation of existing dwelling as supervisory dwelling, Mambury House

1/1110/2000/FUL Removal of condition 1 of planning permission to allow occupation of Mambury House as an unrestricted dwelling. (AMENDED PROPOSAL).

928 Accounts

 

 

 

: Patrick Blosse (Clerk) Dated: 3rd April 2013

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Buckland Brewer Parish Council: Notice of Special Meeting at 8pm, Tuesday, 2nd April in Buckland Brewer Village Hall

Posted on 28 March 2013 by

 

Buckland Brewer Parish Council: Notice of Special Meeting at 8pm, Tuesday, 2nd April in Buckland Brewer Village Hall.

The meeting is to discuss the creation of a Neighbourhood Plan for Buckland Brewer.  This arises  from The North Devon and Torridge Local Plan, Part 3, Neighbourhood Plan.

All relevant information and material will be displayed at the back of the church from the evening of 28th March 4 until the evening of the 2nd April.

If you wish to produce a written view for the Parish Council to consider please leave it at Babbs prior to the meeting.

Jim Lowe

Chair Parish Council

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BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: (Draft) MINUTES OF THE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY, 13 MARCH 2013

Posted on 22 March 2013 by

BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: (Draft) MINUTES OF THE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY, 13 MARCH 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 Clive Burnage (Torridge Area Local Community Partnership Coordinator), Ian Rowland (Senior Planning Policy Officer, Torridge Council), Claire McIntosh (Robert H Hicks & Co.) and 6 members of the public.

Parish Clerk: Patrick Blosse

884 Apologies for Absence:  received from Councillor Alison Boyle (Devon County Council)

885 Minutes of the Last Meeting: The minutes of the meeting held on 13th February 2013 were confirmed and signed. There was one amendment relating to item 882 Planning, 1/10017/2013/FUL (Erection of 500kw wind turbine at Bowden Farm). Voting should have been recorded as 6-1 in favour with 1 abstention.

886 Public Speakers: None

887 Declarations of Interest: George Heywood and Barbara Babb re Item 894 Village hall

888 Clerk’s Report:

HMRC Registration. The clerk reported that the tax rules for Parish Clerks’ remuneration have changed recently and it has been necessary to register Buckland Brewer Parish Council as an employer. The clerk will be paid net of income tax deducted at source in future.

Correspondence. Various items of general correspondence were distributed including the following that were drawn to the Council’s attention:  i. 4 – Torrington Area Advisory Group 16th April 2013, Torrington Town Hall;    ii. 8 – Coat of Arms/Logo request – do we have one?;    iii. 11 – Voluntary Sector Representative County Elections – voting closes 22/3/13;    iv. 12 – Devon County Elections – 5 seats to fill. Prospective candidate briefing 20/3/13.

889 Localism Act: Nothing to report

890 Draft Local Plan

Ian Rowland from Torridge Council’s Planning Department presented the background to the North Devon Plan, currently in consultation stage, concentrating on the requirement to produce Neighbourhood Plans. The plan covers the period to 2031 identifying the development policies required to meet housing needs, industry, the local economy, protecting the countryside and agriculture. The draft plan currently proposes 10% growth in housing for Torridge amounting to 7,600-7,800 additional properties, mainly in Bideford and Northam, followed by Holsworthy and Torrington and then a number of local centres which includes Buckland Brewer. The number of new houses proposed for Buckland Brewer is 19, which does not include any of the properties currently in the pipeline. Consultation responses are wanted particularly on the development boundary and exception sites for affordable housing. Consultation is due to end on 15th March but Ian extended this to 22nd March. Ian provided a set of procedure notes and asked for the Council to check the accuracy of the list of services. The Chairman and Clerk have been invited to a meeting at Barnstaple Civic Centre on Monday 18th March.

It was agreed that the Council would hold a special meeting to discuss the Neighbourhood Plan in more detail. The meeting to be held at 8:00pm on Tuesday 2nd April 2013 in the Village Hall.

891 TAP Fund/ TALCP Coordinator

The clerk explained that plans were proceeding to submit a joint application with Parkham and Alwington Parish Councils for a TAP Fund grant. The original deadline had passed on 28th February but the clerk had secured an extension due to the fact the clerks of both other parishes have been sick and unable to work on the project. Following discussion about the requirements for the project it was agreed to submit an outline project plan for lengthsman duties associated with clearing drains, ditches and culverts. The total application will amount to approximately £1,800, of which Buckland Brewer’s share would be about £722, based on a unit rate of £1.10 per head of population.

Clive Burnage, Coordinator for the Torridge Area Local Community Partnership, explained that the organisation comprised representatives from 28 local parishes and was currently concerned with issues such as NHS reviews, the TAP Fund, Parish Plans and the Localism Act.

892 Thornehillhead Moor: Claire McIntosh gave a report on work that has been recently carried out on the moor. Flailing and swaling has been completed and Claire extended thanks to those who had volunteered their help. The trough has been installed and work has been completed on the cattle grids. However, Andrew Hewitt reported problems with the steel frames of the cattle grids which need to be resolved. It has also come to light that there are still outstanding issues with some of the fencing work which Claire will ensure is rectified at the contractor’s expense. There has been a delay in reclaiming the final payment towards the cattle grids from the Rural Protection Agency but as soon as this was settled the loan from DCC can be repaid.

893 Thornehillhead Moor – Communication Mast: The chairman and George Heywood had met with Geoffrey Cox (MP). He has advised that, because we have assigned the lease there was probably very little hope of renegotiating the rental. He advised that it might be worthwhile writing to Arqiva again, and if the Council did that, he would follow it up. The Chairman suggested that the Council should also issue a press release and this was unanimously agreed.

894 Village Hall: The Chairman reported that he has spoken to the developer and the district council and that the S.106 agreement is being dealt with by solicitors in Exeter and should be submitted to Torridge Council on Friday 18th March.

895 Football Club Lease: Neither Andrew Hewitt not the Clerk have yet been able to trace a copy of the Football Club lease. The club needs a copy as they are seeking funding, in which case the chairman thought that they would hope that the lease was for at least 25 years. The possibility of the Football Club moving to the plot next to the village hall as part of the Neighbourhood Plan proposals was discussed.

896 Solar Array: Nothing to report

897 Parish Defibrillator: Advice had been sought from St John Ambulance and the Resuscitation Council. There could be problems if the equipment gets wet (e.g. electrocution) so it needed to be housed inside a public building that needs to be open at all times. There have been reports of exploding oxygen bottles and difficulties for people with hairy chests. A suggestion was made that money might be better spent of training in manual resuscitation techniques.

898 Litter Day: The Chairman reported that parishioners had raised the problem of litter in the parish and suggested that an organised ‘litter-picking day’ might be arranged. It was agreed that the Chairman would select a suitable date and advertise it appropriately.

899 Tarka Homes: An email had been received from Tarka Housing informing the Council that a feasibility study will be carried out shortly but a short-term resolution to the parking issues is unlikely to be found. It was agreed that the Chairman would contact the Torridge Council representative on the Tarka Board and Ken Miles, Torridge’s Solicitor.

900 Members’ Reports

i. Andrew Hewitt encouraged members to register their opinions about the future use of Torrington Cottage Hospital which he reported is in danger of closing.

ii. George Heywood reported that Buckland Brewer PCC does not support any work on the footpath across the church and it was agreed to add this item to the next agenda.

iii. Jim Lowe suggested that the Council should ask Parkham, Putford and Bradworthy Parish Councils if they want to support another summer bus service

iv. Jim Lowe announced that the Annual General Meeting has been booked for the Village Hall for Wednesday 22nd May and that he is hoping to arrange for Kate Little, Joint Head of Strategic Planning for Torridge and North Devon Councils to attend as speaker.

v. Kate Slocombe supplied 15 numbered stakes for the allotments. Jim Lowe and Andrew Hewitt offered to help install them.

901 Planning

i. 1/0678/95/14/007 Removal of condition 2 of planning permission to allow occupation of existing dwelling as supervisory dwelling, Mambury House

ii. 1/1110/2000/FUL Removal of condition 1 of planning permission to allow occupation of Mambury House as an unrestricted dwelling. (AMENDED PROPOSAL).

iii. Following some discussion about the two items for Mambury House it was felt that more information was required about the nature of the conditions before an opinion could be given

iv. 1/0875/2012/FUL Proposed conversion of barn to dwelling, Holbrook Farm, Twitchen – application granted permission – noted.

v. 1/0550/2012/FUL Installation of a single-scale wind turbine, Land at Swanton Farm, Horns Cross – no opinion.

vi. Draft Plan Consultation: Jim Lowe provided a map outlining potential development plans for Buckland Brewer and highlighting sites that could be available for housing and industrial development. Members were asked to consider these proposals and research the background papers that had already been provided. A special meeting was arranged for Tuesday 2nd April 2013 in the Village Hall at 8:00pm to discuss the plan and formulate a final response for the consultation process.

902 Accounts

i. S137 spending limit for 2013/14 is £6.98 per head of population – amounting to £4.600. (Increase of 2.6% over 2012/13 based on change in RPI)

ii. Bank balances: Parish Council Account £11,914.51 as at 28/2/13: Thornehillhead Moor Account £55,378.26 as at 05/03/13

iii. Receipts since the last meeting include: VAT reclaim received in the sum of £11,103.18 (£11,046.18 to be transferred to the Thornehillhead Moor account). A further VAT reclaim has been issued in the sum of £2,610.23 (£2,569.23 for Thornehillhead Moor)

iv. Payments due totalling £333.08: Parish Clerk’s salary and expenses to 28th February including agreed extra hours for a handover and attendance at a training course DALC re Clerk’s Training Course; Payment has been made for fencing works completed at Thornehillhead Moor in the sum of £4,737.36 and the final bill for cattle grids of £10,678.

v. The clerk had issued letters to allotment holders reminding them that half-yearly rents are due on 31st March.

The meeting moved to Part II and members of the public were asked to leave.

The meeting closed at 10:10 pm

Date of Next Meeting:

Planning Consultation: Tuesday 2nd April 2013 (8:00pm Village Hall)

Full Council: Wednesday 10th April 2013 (8:00pm Buckland Brewer School)

Chairman: ………………………….                           Date: ……………

 

 

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BUCKLAND BREWER VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE: Minutes of the meeting held on 16th January 2013 at 8.00 p.m.

Posted on 8 March 2013 by

 

BUCKLAND BREWER VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE: Minutes of the meeting held on 16th January 2013 at 8.00 p.m.

Present: Trevor Mills (Chair); George & Shirley Tilley; David Watson; Dawn Dziurzynski; Steve Harding; Alan Sutton; Jane Lowe (secretary); Jim Lowe; Frank Watson ; Jo Birch; John Bridge; Tom Lloyd;

1) Apologies: David & Margaret Lloyd; Kevin Lobb (Treasurer);

2) Non-attendee trustees from last time to sign acceptance register: Complete except Margaret Lloyd – injured hand – to be resolved next meeting;

3) Changes to affiliates’ representatives: Alan Sutton now represents Playing Field Association and has relinquished his co-opted status;

4) Minutes of Last Meeting 21st Nov 2012: agreed & signed off for lodgement on website.

5) Matters Arising:

Jane has written & thanked Lyn Layton for her past support as trustee

Hartland Orchestra has been reminded about the outstanding payment – they advised music was more important to them than money and had overlooked it, but will deal -all has been done that can be.

Gift Aid research – apologies received for this meeting from Kevin whose action this is – assumed by all that in view of need to prioritise financials for funders this may not yet have received attention – defer to next time for discussion with Kevin.

Xmas Market 2012 actions – complete but also see section on fund raising

9th Feb actions – see section on fund raising

Actions from Update on New Parish Community Hall – completed except attendance at “Fund it, Build It” workshop. Jane advised that other VH activities (mainly actions & numerous time-consuming commitments towards Christmas Market) had to take priority & there was a limit to people’s capacity. Martin Rich rang Jane & they discussed matters relating specifically to Buckland Brewer – agreed that despite networking having possibly been of help, there was no great loss in non-attendance, more a pity we could not again meet face to face.

Regards action to approach Official Custodian, Jane explained the mechanism was via the website only these days and the invitation was to make the amendment rather than enter into discussion about its possibility. On the basis of concensus and minutes of November last, she went ahead and requested the amendment. To revisit, the reasoning is protection for the Parish stands as since the inception of the Trust Deed, Official Custodian has since adopted the Title and Trustees must prove/evidence to Official Custodian that there is an equal or improved substitute premises prior to the sale of the existing hall. Official Custodian will withhold signed consent to sale until such is evidenced. To further ratify:

PROPOSAL to remove Trust Deed Clause 18 “If the Committee decides…inhabitants present and voting at such meeting” – proposed Alan Sutton, seconded Trevor Mills Agreed unanimously.

Trustee Indemnity – Action completed, see Item 10.

Kitchen improvement to accommodate securing of new pans. Jim has spoken to Richard Dorset but Richard is awaiting a hip replacement operation and the matter may not be dealt with immediately – Jim agreed this was fine, when Richard was fully able. Shirley expressed concern about further spend and its necessity, but it was explained that this action was a minuted “done deal” in her absence last time.

Key list- Frank confirmed that this remains Work in Progress – revisit next time for an update although Frank was able to assure all that the mislaid keys from Babbs, as was suspected, had been in the possession of the Zumba lady all the time, and had now been returned.

Nicky’s contract linked to monitoring white board – again apologies from Trevor & Jane but VH workload has been excessive with other priorities and this has proved one task too many – as there is a legal requirement to resolve this it will remain prominent on the “to do” list.

6) Correspondence

Mail from Lynn Brooks asking for a meet – to be dealt with under advice to all committee members ACTION Jane.

Confirmation from Torridge that following re-application, BBVH will continue to receive discount on rates and therefore will receive a £0 rates bill for April 2013 onwards.

A number of letters of support for new hall received from most affiliates although Gardening Club have not yet been able to produce one, delivered to John. Jo advises she and Andrea are producing for U-5s – emphasised to Jo that these are crucial to success and the timescales. Dawn has offered to produce more from interested non-affiliates – accepted all with gratitude – ACTION DAWN

Exchanges between Jane & Geoff Cox’s (MP) office regarding tardiness of TDC re planning application

Letter from Jane to Leader of TDC re failure by TDC to adhere to legal timescales – Barry Parsons (Leader) off sick but his deputy rang to apologise & attempt to justify – there is now an e-mail from TDC Head of Planning guaranteeing that Draft Approval will be released on or before 22nd January.

PRS Statement & receipted invoice passed direct to Kevin.

7) Treasurers Report (delivered by Secretary in absence of Treasurer)

Jane reminded all of apologies received by Kevin – will deliver report and any questions will be fed back for response next time.

Comments

Existing Hall

Hall insurance was £578 for last time as opposed to £534 in 2011.

Electric remains a concern, having increased in cost (Sept to Jan year on year) from £385 to £600.

Explained by:

1. Increase in prices

2. Increase in usage, extra 253 kw net (day 320kw, evenings decreased by 67kw)

3. Last years figures are estimates, this years are actuals

4. EON discovered meter set incorrectly and we were paying tariff in reverse, weekdays & weekend rate.

Income has increased from £1889 to £2052 despite no cinema income & lower grant from Bridge Trust by £500.

Electric meter takings have increased from £103 to £202

Pre-school income increased from £483 to £680

Hall repairs are nil this year (last year £1200).

We are currently running at a loss of £585. Last year showed a loss of £5725 of which £3637 was equipment*i

Misc income has increased from £132 to £714 (Zumba, Boot Camp, polling, Private individual Hire 4 to 5).

New Village Hall

PRS £131 paid

Interest on Principality investment to decrease to 0.75% from 1.5% w.e.f. next month *ii

Christmas Market profit £527. After offline discussion with Kevin, PROPOSAL Jim that we should donate £250 of this to DAAT. Seconded Alan, agreed unanimously. ACTION Kevin to send payment to DAAT.

*i- suggestion by some committee members that purchase of chairs should be reflected in accounting terms as CapEx, declared as an asset with depreciation over several years as this will better and more correctly reflect the health of the budget– ACTION Kevin to review & clarify

*ii Accepted philosophically but comment by John that the longer we can hold on to these funds and defer billing (bearing in mind legal constraints where we will be guided by Kevin Binmore) possibly the better we are enabled to obtain matched funding and represent our financial health & status to funders in general.

Balances –

Lloyds TSB

Current a/c – £1511.54 Deposit a/c £2906.44 New Village Hall £8776.80

Principality – £30,332.87

Total balances held £43,527.65

8) Fund raising/events

 

a)9th Feb – Emily Wright. For clarity it will be Emily Wright & The Royals (band omitted from poster wording) – possible error in Beaford promotional information depending in their contract with Emily Wright. ACTION Dawn to contact Beaford & request they resolve as they own the promotional literature and contract with the artist.

Helpers – set-up, evening/serving/raffle, clear-up afterwards. Exact musical schedule t.b.c. ACTION Dawn

Bar license applied for by Jane who will be licensee – from 7pm-11pm.Ticketing £10 p.h. will be either via Dawn or Beaford who have the ability to process card payments. Everyone to help promote – place posters ACTION ALL.30 will cover costs, ideal attendance 50. Emily will bring her own p.a. but debate about (lack of) ambience and what can be done. If Beaford can supply portable spotlighting this will help ACTION – Dawn to find out & advise Alan who will fetch if this is possible. ACTION Frank will see if he can borrow some black drape adequate to conceal long wall notice boards. ACTION Jo to lend some screening to partially conceal toilet doors. Staging to help visibility may be desirable dependant upon numbers attending – indication by Friday morning – if it can be used Trevor will help fetch.

Teams – set-up Jane & Jim, Shirley & George (all who have said they will be available all day), Dave W (if more tables/chairs needed from chapel), Alan – 4 p.m.

Doors to open 7 p.m. Evening team – Bar – Trevor will ask Gus to organise and Dawn to liaise with him; available hands to deliver hot food to table (no pudding, to be replaced with cheese & biscuits to nibble throughout performance); Alan & Jim to do wine waiters to facilitate drink sales & improve ambience; Shirley to do raffle; prizes by donation (2 with Alan unclaimed from Xmas Market).

Accommodation may be required – not an issue, Alan, Jane & Jim, Dawn can offer.

b) Safari Lunch & Plant Sale – date to be May 12th

c) Fete – agreed as July 13th

d) Rosemoor – date agreed as 23rd August – discussion about acts/artists is Work in Progress

e) Xmas Market 2013(??). Jim advised in 2012 we were down on income because the craft group had nothing to sell and all their takings are donated to New Hall fund. They had advised that if 2013 takes place they will have goods to sell. On balance, 2012 gave a lot of better quality stalls. If it is to go ahead both Jim & Jane believe we need to “refresh the brand” i.e. make some changes so that “same old ,same old” does not deter customers. E.g. possibly a skittle knock out contest with a final on Market day with a large butchers prize, childrens lucky dip rather than Santa. Shirley suggested a child’s sleigh ride – all agreed a good idea but insurance would be prohibitive, however all to try and be creative about some form of childrens amusement/entertainment.

Concensus is that its success for 3 years running meant we really should go ahead in 2013. HOWEVER the lack of active support from the entire committee on the day (people are needed to be there all the time from start to finish, usually 8 a.m.- 4p.m.-ish) meant we would have been met with disaster in 2012 had there not been support from outside the committee – this cannot be allowed to happen again and Trevor asked for ACTION all committee members to give Jim & Jane the support that was needed before and on the day. Resolution Christmas Market 2013 to take place & set for Saturday 7th December

f) – Other ideas. Virtual Treasure Hunt – Jane advised this still had a life of its own – she & Jim were presenting it in Loxhore in exchange for a donation to hall funds. Also BBPFA may want its use (in which case it will need a little re-writing of questions) also in exchange for a donation.

Jane & Jim have also written a quiz for use elsewhere and offer it (as a ready made package, minimal effort involved) to Village Hall. Quiz on basis of central controlled marking, not answer-sheet swapping. Suggest a simple hot one-course supper half-way through and bring your own drink, cost £5 per head. Agreed – date for quiz to be 23rd March, just before Easter.

9) Update on New Parish Community Hall

Jim reminded all that the up to date & changing position remained visible on the website and the Parish Council notice board to ensure the community remained informed. John & Shirley said they had received positive feedback from within the community about the project. Meeting with Kevin Binmore resulted in Kevin being instructed to cost the new hall and go out to tender – this at least will decide who is to be the builder although preferred supplier remains Pearce. The instruction includes an ability to build in stages if lack of immediate funding demands it, top price £750k as dictated by Big Lottery limitations.

DCC have a possible £15k – Alison Boyle is trying to ascertain whether DCC have certain building spec in exchange for this.

John addressed the committee thanking Jane, Dawn & Kevin for specific input. He was concerned he hadn’t heard from Kevin Binmore about cost information ACTION Jane to support by “nudging” Kevin. He commented that if successful with our Outline Application for funding thus going for Stage Two, a bid for 10% Development Funding can be submitted. This could pay for a range of expenses associated with the project including Professional Fees, Project Management, Developing a Business Plan and Capital Project Delivery. This money cannot be claimed retrospectively so fees already paid cannot be included. We must therefore try to defer any future payments of this nature until we have the Development Funding subject to contractual requirements – failure to pay on time will incur large fines.

Upon submission of a full application it can take up to 17 months for Big Lottery to give a decision. Based on draft timings the hall should be started in late summer 2014 and therefore Lottery work must commence now although complexity of such means John needs practical help – suggested that a maximum of 4 in the “application team” would help rather than hinder. Resolution/Next Steps “Lottery Application Team” to be Steve, Jane & Dawn led by John who will invite/arrange the meetings.

10) Recommendation by Community Council of Devon to review insurances & discuss possible need for individual trustee indemnity insurance.

First part deferred until Kevin is able to attend.

Jane has obtained literature from Community Council of Devon (ACRE publication Village Hall Information Sheet 35 if anyone wants to get a copy)– fairly in depth about where risk is incurred & reasons why trustees may want to be insured. Item 1.2. paraphrased indicates the best protection is not to incur liabilities, basically by ensuring that the charity is well managed and good practice is followed. Jane asked whether anyone was concerned. All agreed that in line with Martin Rich’s advice from last October we had ACRE trustee guidelines which we were ensuring we followed and where there was financial & other matters to address in our project we had placed ourselves entirely in the hands of qualified professionals, following their advice, commonsense notwithstanding. We all felt therefore that at this time we did not want to progress any insurance although this remains an option to anyone who wants to put it back on the agenda.

8 ) AOB

John advised that the Bowls notice boards/shelving had not been completed but inadvertently the parish photograph had been put up where they hoped to do this work. He said that the work would still take place and hoped that relocating the photograph would not present an issue – agreed all.

DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS – IT IS NOW IMPERATIVE THAT ALL TRUSTEES ATTEND AS FAR AS POSSIBLE. It was also agreed some time ago that when the need arose we should meet more frequently, John advising that on his funding application he had advised we are meeting monthly. If not required meetings can be cancelled but future dates are:

Wednesdays 27th Feb; 27th March (postponed as John is away on the scheduled date); 24th April; 15th May, all at 8.00 p.m.

The meeting closed at 9.40 p.m.

 

 

 

 

Signed…………………………………………… Date………………………..

 

 

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BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: Agenda for the meeting on 13th March 2013 at 8.00pm in Buckland Brewer County Primary School

Posted on 8 March 2013 by

BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: Agenda for the meeting on 13th March 2013 at 8.00pm in Buckland Brewer County Primary School

AGENDA:  Business to be transacted at the meeting:

884 Apologies for Absence

885 Minutes of the Meeting of 13th February 2013

886 Public Speakers

887 Declarations of Interest

888 Clerk’s Report

889 Localism Act

890 Draft Local Plan – Consultation

891 TAP Fund/ TALCP Coordinator, Clive Burnage, to disuss the work of the Torridge Area Local Community Partnerships

892 Thornehillhead Moor

893 Thornehillhead Communication Mast

894 Village Hall

895 Football Club Lease

896 Solar Array

897 Parish Defibrillator

898 Litter Day

899 Tarka Homes

900 Members Reports

901 Planning

902 Accounts

 

Patrick Blosse Parish Clerk

 

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Buckland Brewer Parish Council: Draft minutes of the meeting held on 13th February 2013

Posted on 19 February 2013 by

DRAFT:   MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING OF BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY, 13 FEBRUARY 2013 AT 8.00PM AT THE 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 David Watson: Alison Boyle (Devon County Councillor): 21 members of the public: Parish Clerk, Patrick Blosse

864 Apologies for Absence: None

865 Minutes of the Last Meeting: The minutes of the meeting held on 9th January 2013 were confirmed and signed.

866 Public Speakers: David Wheeler of Hallmark Power gave an outline of the proposed development of the wind turbine proposal at Bowden Farm.

867 Declarations of Interest: Mr George Heywood – Item 882Planning: Erection of 500kw wind turbine

868 Correspondence:The following correspondence was distributed:

1 Torridge Planning applications w/e 28/1/13 and 4/2/13

2 Application for hire of school premises 2013 – cheque for £60 to be signed

3 Draft Local Plan Consultation Document. Response required by 15th March 2013. The Parish Council anticipates making further comments on the proposed draft plan at its next meeting on March 13th 2013.

4 Email enquiry from Buckland Brewer FC – New secretary has asked for guidance on the term of their lease and whether a youth football team has been considered

5 Register of Electors Alteration February 2013

6 Clerks and Councils Direct, January 2013

7 Devon Senior Voice, January 2013-02-11

8 Letter and invoice regarding surface repairs at Northwood Lane. Council confirmed their approval to the payment of £144.00 for surface repairs.

9 24-7, Edition 17

10 Letter from Wendy Farr re the drain in Northwood Lane. Council approved addition of works to Lengthsman’s rota.

11 Letter and plan from Alex Dziurzynski to include a site within the new parish boundary – Council overwhelmingly agreed (7-1 Andrew Hewitt declared an interest and did not vote) to have the land outlined in red to be designated as a development site for one house. (For Mr Alex Dziurzynski who wishes to build his own family sized house on this plot.)

12 Planning Decision – Hand Painted Shop Sign

13 Parkham Parish Council – TAP Fund (Lengthsman). Council approved of Parkham Parish Council’s suggestion to work in partnership with other parish council’s to use the TAP fund to resource additional Lengthsman duties.

14 Report from Claire McIntosh re Thornehillhead Moor.

15 Letter from Peter Sandon registering his opposition to the proposed wind turbine at Bowden Farm.

16 A letter from the PCC indicating that they could not support the upgrading of the footpath across the church yard.

869 Localism Act: Nothing to report

870 Youth Club: Chris Turner gave an overview of the Buckland Brewer ‘Youth Club’, which he asked to be referred to as a ‘Drop-In Centre’. It has been operating for about 9 years and provides a safe place to meet where senior school age children can develop long-term relationships with supportive adults who they look on as friends rather than authority figures. The staff provided health advice, 1 to 1 support, home visits and work closely with Great Torrington School. Chris gave examples of how their success could be measured by the fall in crime and teenage pregnancy rates.

871 Thornehillhead Moor: The clerk read Claire McIntosh’s report which recommended payment of the outstanding account for fencing works following a recent inspection. Council approved payment of the invoice and noted the rest of the report. The Chairman explained that Devon County Council would shortly send its final account for the works they had carried out to date. It was agreed to settle all outstanding accounts from Devon County Council before discussing the next tranche of works with Claire.

872 Thornehillhead Moor – Communication Mast: George Heywood and Jim Lowe are to meet with the MP, Geoffrey Cox, on Saturday 23rd February and will report back.

873 Village Hall: It anticipated that the 106 agreement could be signed by the end of the month. Due to the size and nature of the project a CDM has been appointed. A list of local suppliers is being prepared.

874 Solar Array: George Heywood reported that work was still ongoing.

875 Diamond Jubilee: Shirley Tilley reported that there was a sum of about £170 awaiting application to a suitable project.

876 Parish Defibrillator: No action to report but Andrew Hewitt should have developments to report by the next meeting

877 Tarka Homes: The Chairman had tried to contact Tarka Homes concerning Tucker’s Park but has had no response to his calls. The Chair is to find out who from Torridge District Council is dealing with the issue and put the council’s concerns to them.

878 Village Green: Three large stones have been placed at the edge of the village green to deter parking. It was generally felt that the stones were too few and too widely spaced to be effective and some concerns were raised about health and safety. Alternative measures were discussed including the use of tractor tyres as planters. The Chairman offered to investigate alternatives and report back.

879 Engaging Devon – DCC Engagement Strategy: Members had received copies of a consultation document from Devon County Council. A questionnaire is to be completed by the Chair.

880 Nominations to fill casual vacancies on the DALC County Committee 2011-15: Nominations were sought to contribute to the work of the DALC (Devon Association of Local Councils). It was agreed to nominate Andrew Hewitt.

881 Members’ Reports: (i) George Heywood reported that the gritter had made two trips in the recent cold weather, using about a ton of material which he will get replaced; (ii) Barbara Babb observed that recycling bins were being put out earlier than ever on the day preceding collection and suggested that an item could be included in Village Scene to dissuade parishioners from doing this. (iii) Barbara also reminded the council that a speaker should be sought for the May AGM; (iv) Shirley Tilley pointed out that street light 3833/12 in Gorwood Road was on all day but not at night and needs to be reported to DCC; (v) Kate Slocombe reminded the council that letters need to be sent to allotment holders re the increase in rent to £10.00 per annum from 1.4.14: (vi) Kate Slocombe also asked whether the £25 lease payment due from Joe Wolfe had been received. The clerk to check and follow up appropriately: (vii) Jim Lowe suggested that the May meeting of the Parish Council (not the AGM) should be held at Thornehillhead Chapel: (viii) Andrew Hewitt reported landslips on the road from Yeo Vale to Moor Head which should be reported to Littleham Parish Council: (ix) Alison Boyle (County Councillor) reported on the two issues that she was particularly concerned about at present: the Atlantic Array and Highways. She was also hopeful that DCC would make a financial contribution to the new Parish Community Hall.

882 Planning: 1/10017/2013/FUL Erection of 500kw wind turbine (74m to blade tip), associated infrastructure and access track on land at Bowden Farm, Buckland Brewer, EX39 5EL. Following a general discussion of the proposal it was agreed that the development did not contravene the council’s policy in respect of distance to inhabited property. The Council overwhelmingly agreed (7-1) not to oppose the development and building of a Wind Turbine on Bowden Farm Buckland Brewer.

883 Accounts: The bank balance of the Council’s general account was £1,245.28 as at 31st January 2013. Balances for the Thornhillhead Moor account were not available.

The clerk reported that: (i) All outstanding field and allotment rents for 2012/13 had now been received; (ii)

Payments amounting to £483.95 were due in respect of school hall bookings for 2013, Parish Clerk’s fees, signwriting costs and surface repairs in Northwood Lane:

(iii) One account had been held for works at Thornehillhead Moor in the sum of £4,737.36 but this would now be paid in accordance with the Council’s decision: (iv) A payment of £32,744.58 had been made for works completed at Thornehillhead Moor. This included VAT in excess of £5,000 which had already been reclaimed from Customs and Excise.

The meeting closed at 9:30 pm

Date of Next Meeting: Wednesday 13th March 2013 (8:00pm Buckland Brewer School)

Chairman: ……………………………………………………………………….

Date: …………………………………….

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BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: agenda for the meeting on 13th February 2013.

Posted on 10 February 2013 by

BUCKLAND BREWER PARISH COUNCIL: agenda for the meeting on 13th February 2013.

Date & Time: Wednesday 13th February 2013, 8.00pm

Venue: Buckland Brewer County Primary School

AGENDA: Business to be transacted at the meeting:

 

864 Apologies for Absence

865 Minutes of the Meeting of 9th January 2013

866 Public Speakers

867 Declarations of Interest

868 Correspondence

869 Localism Act

870 Youth Club

871 Thornehillhead Moor

872 Thornehillhead Moor – Communication Mast

873 Village Hall

874 Solar Array

875 Diamond Jubilee

876 Parish Defibrillator

877 Tarka Homes

878 Village Green

879 Engaging Devon – DCC Engagement Strategy

880 Nominations to fill casual vacancies on the DALC County Committee 2011-15

881 Members’ Reports

882 Planning

1/0017/2013/FUL Erection of 500kw wind turbine (74m to blade tip), associated infrastructure and access track on land at Bowden Farm, Buckland Brewer, EX39 5EL

883. Accounts

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