A MEETING OF THE PARISH COUNCIL
was held Thursday 21st June 2007
Winscombe Community Centre at 7.30 p.m.
Present: Mrs. A Brading, Mr. S Bridges, Mrs P Bushnell, Mrs. P Cram (Vice-Chair), Mr. A Forbes,
Mr. R Jones, Mr. G Lloyd, Mr. G Luckett, Mrs V McGann, Ms. D Powell (Vice-Chair), Miss B Roper,
Mr. C Sampson (Chairman), Mr. J Westlake, Mr M Williamson.
Ward Councillors: Mrs A Harley, Mr T Marter
Members of the public: five
Police: PCSO Wright
Clerk: Mrs. L Rampton
Press Representatives: Mr. M Mistry – Weston & Somerset Mercury
Mr G Jones – freelance reporter
Apologies for absence: Mrs A Richmond, Mr A Lake, PC Church
21. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - (Agenda item 3)
Mrs Brading and Mr Forbes both declared personal and prejudicial interests in Agenda item 21 & 22, Towerhead Public Right of Way AX3/23 Modification - Public Inquiry.
22. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD 17TH MAY 2007.
(Agenda item 4)
The minutes of the meeting were accepted and signed as a correct record.
Proposed: Mrs A Brading Seconded: Mrs. P Cram All in favour
23. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES & CLERKS REPORTS– Annex 1
(Agenda item 5)
Min 5 Representatives to Outside Bodies – Mrs Cram invited all present to attend the AGM of the Winscombe Community Centre on Wed 27th June where written reports on the work of the Association would be available. Due to popular demand, Mr Ticehurst had again been invited to speak at this year’s event.
The Clerk advised that Mrs Witter was happy to continue as school governor for Sandford Primary School and would provide regular reports to the Parish Council.
Min 14 (iii) Annual Governance Statement – a satisfactory final internal audit report has now been received for the 2006/07 financial year.
24. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
(Agenda item 6)
Mrs Ballard voiced concern that the St Monica Trust Nursing Home is being described as a home primarily for those with dementia. The poor road condition of Hill Road and its many pot holes was brought to the attention of the Parish Council as well as the lack of seats along the Strawberry Line walk between Sandford and the Millennium Green. Mrs Ballard apologised for missing the last meeting of the WMRG Committee as Village Representative as she had not received an Agenda to the meeting.
Mrs Barley reiterated concerns of the large number of pot holes on Hill Road and requested that a single speed limit be imposed from Churchill traffic lights through to Banwell. Should this speed restriction not be possible then consideration should be given to painting roundels on the road advising of the correct speed limit. Pressure should be applied to NSC for vehicle activated speed signs within the Parish.
25. CRIME REPORT 17TH MAY – 21ST JUNE 2007 – PCSO WRIGHT Annex 2
(Agenda item 7) Direct office no 01934 638123
PCSO Wright gave a report of crime figures for the last month to the Parish Council.
In response to a question, PCSO Wright confirmed that additional lighting to the car park behind the Woodborough Inn could help to reduce incidents of theft from and of motor vehicles. The annual statistics for 2006/07 are now available on the Avon & Somerset Police Constabulary website.
26. WARD COUNCILLOR UPDATE
(Agenda item 8)
Initial meetings are now taking place for Council Committees with new members and the directive from the Leader of the Council, Nigel Ashton is to bring forward concerns of Parish and Town Councils. New and returning members are aware of their commitment to the Town/Parish Councils and the communities that they represent.
Issues with the Primary Care Trust could have an impact on rural groupings and the involvement of Parish Councils is encouraged.
Pot holes are an area of concern and it was requested that a copy of the road survey submitted to NSC three months ago be sent to each Ward Councillor. A Parish Councillor has been advised that some pot holes will only be filled with hardcore which will wash away in heavy rainfall.
Money within South Area Committee funds has been allocated to continue the footway between Thatchers and the Railway Inn on Station Road. A meeting between Parish Council representatives, Ward Councillors and NSC Highway Officers has taken place to assess the design and cost of this project.
It was suggested that the Parish Council present a case enmasse with surrounding Parish Councils at the informal ‘Parish Voice’, before a meeting of the South Area Committee should they wish to further the issue of speeding traffic from Churchill to Banwell. Evidence of speed and accidents would be beneficial. A discussion took place on vehicle activated signs.
Comments regarding seating on the Strawberry Line Walk have been noted.
A recent absence of the ‘school crossing assistant’ in Sandford had been raised with Ward Councillors – adequate cover can be arranged if Councillors are alerted to the absence
Parish Councillors were urged to attend the NSC Standards Committee ‘Code of Conduct’ training opportunities being held in July.
The merits of the D&C workshop were expressed with the next training session due to be held on 8th Nov 2007. Again Councillors were encouraged to attend.
27. TO AUTHORISE BILLS FOR PAYMENT – The Clerk Annex 3
(Agenda item 9)
Proposed: Mr G Lloyd Seconded: Miss B Roper All in favour.
28. PLANNING PRE-DECISION AMENDMENT FOR COMMENT
07/P/0156/F FORMER SANDFORD STONE SITE
(Agenda item 10)
The background information to the original planning application was explained to the Parish Council and the proposed amendments to the original plans explained. As the amendments are being considered within the six month rule for rescission of a decision, consideration would only be given to the amendments to these plans and the decision of the Parish Council opposing the application in February 2007 is still firm.
A discussion took place in which public access to listed buildings was considered along with the affordable housing provision, the length of time the site has been available for sale and possible inclusions for an extension to the Parish Council Cemetery within ‘106 Agreement’ funding from the developers should this application be approved.
Proposed: The Parish Council still oppose the use of Greenfield site and have concerns over highway safety at the site entrance. Should the application be approved by North Somerset Council, the Parish Council has no objection to the proposed amendments to the plan as outlined in plans from the NSC Planning Officer in May 2007.
Proposed: Mr M Williamson Seconded: Mr G Lloyd All in favour
29. THE STANDARDS BOARD FOR ENGLAND, NEW MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT 2007
(Agenda item 12)
It is recommended by NSC Standards Committee that Parish Councils adopt the New Model Code of Conduct as soon as possible. Rather than adopt the standard version issued by the Secretary of State in which paragraphs do not apply, the Standards Committee recommend adoption of “Standards Board Model Code for Parish Councils”. Under s.51 of the Local Government Act 2000 it is the duty of local authorities to adopt the revised Code in place of their existing code within six months of the revised Code being made. The Parish Council has until 1st October 2007 to adopt the revised code, after that time should this not have been adopted, members of local authorities will automatically be covered by this.
(i) North Somerset Council Standards Committee Training Opportunities (Annex 4)
Training opportunities that the Standards Committee commends are being held by NSC at various locations and on three dates for Chairmen, Clerks and members. Councillors were requested to contact the Clerk to advise which event they will attend as soon as possible.
The Avon Local Council Association (ALCA) Councillor Seminar held on 13th June 2007 at Bradley Stoke was considered very enlightening and Parish Councillors were encouraged to attend two further events being held over coming months. The Clerk has requested confirmation from the Solicitor to NSC if training for the Model Code repeats that given by the Standards Board for England. Councillors that have attended the ALCA training event would be advised individually.
Parish Councillors were issued with literature at this meeting, posted to those members not present:
· The Code of Conduct – Guide for Members May 2007. The Standards Board for England
· The Code of Conduct – Pocket Guide May 2007. The Standards Board for England
· The Model Code of Conduct for Parish & Town Councils. Local Authorities (Model Code Of Conduct) Order 2007 No. 1159
30. STANDARDS COMMITTEE – NOMINATIONS FOR TOWN/PARISH REPRESENTATIVE (Annex 5)
(Agenda item 12)
Eight nominations have been received for the two positions by the due deadline.
Some candidates were known for their commitment or presence at ALCA meetings and it was decided that candidate 6 receive vote for first choice and candidate 3 receive vote for second choice. No further votes to be submitted.
Proposed: Ms V McGann Seconded: Miss B Roper All in favour
31. PARISH PLAN – LEAFLET FOR POSSIBLE DISTRIBUTION – Mr S Bridges (Annex 6)
(Agenda item 13)
For the benefit of new Parish Councillors, the concept and advantages of a Parish Plan were explained. The first draft of a possible leaflet was discussed along with methods of distribution and grant funding available. Clubs and societies within the Parish should be contacted to further canvass support for the project.
Proposed: The Parish Council approve the principle of the submitted flyer to gauge public support within the Parish subject to successful grant funding being received to finance this.
Proposed: Ms D Powell Seconded: Mr G Luckett 12 in favour, 1 against
It was requested that suggestions for amendments to the flyer be forwarded to Mr Bridges within the next 7 days.
32. PRIMARY CARE TRUST REPORT – Miss B Roper (Annex 7)
(Agenda item 14)
Miss Roper spoke on the recent meeting that had taken place and advised that the PCT were hoping to work towards better understanding between all parties. The Wavering Down Surgery in Winscombe is soon to set up a Patient/Practice Group to which invitations will shortly be issued. Village practices consist of 70% of the area in NS but just 30% of patients.
33. AVON LOCAL COUNCIL ASSOCIATION REPORT – Mr R Jones
(Agenda item 15)
Mr Jones was elected as member of the Avon Local Council Association Executive Committee at the branch meeting held on 14th June. A presentation by the Children’s Society detailed a project trying to manage problems with young people that may include anti-social behaviour and vandalism. Current funding for this runs out next April and it is hoped that further finance from DEFRA may be secured. Although an interesting meeting, attendance was low with only 17 persons present.
34. BANWELL & WINSCOMBE CHILDREN’S CENTRE PARTNERSHIP – Mr G Luckett
(Agenda item 16)
Mr Luckett reported on matters discussed at the meeting held at the Oldmixon Family Centre on 10th May. The preparation of the lease for the centre to be situated in Banwell is proceeding and a planning application for the building made although this has been delayed as the building is situated in a conservation area and no window detail was originally provided. No building work will commence until planning permission is obtained and lease details finalised.
A tour of the Oldmixon Centre showed a number of rooms used as offices, kitchen, committee room and hall with ample storage cupboards due to use by different groups and would be similar to the Banwell Centre. A suitable building in this Parish is currently being sought to be used for a similar purpose – suggestions could include the Youth Club at the Community Centre or the old NSC Highway Depot on Hill Road.
35. NEW SMOKEFREELAW 1ST JULY 2007 – PARISH COUNCIL PREMISES
(Agenda item 17)
From 1st July 2007 it will be against the law to smoke, or permit others to smoke in virtually all enclosed and substantially enclosed public places and workplaces in England. Guidance received from HM Government advises that as the Parish Council is responsible for premises covered by the new law, it has a duty to ensure the legally required signage is in place. There is no requirement for outdoor smoking shelters to be provided for employees or members of the public.
Parish Council owned premises that should display suitable signage are the bus shelter at Sidcot on the A38, the Cemetery waiting area and the WMRG changing rooms. No smoking signs have been displayed at the outside entrance to the Parish Office by the Community Centre.
36. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DURING PARISH COUNCIL MEETINGS (Annex 8)
(Agenda item 18)
It was suggested that should this Parish Council wish to pursue Quality Parish status at a future date, public participation could not appear as an Agenda item as is the current practice. As it was though that a discussion on this topic could be lengthy, the matter was deferred to the October 2007 meeting for further consideration possibly with details of Quality Parish Status.
37. WAR MEMORIAL RECREATION GROUND COMMITTEE REPORT (Annex 9)
(Agenda item 19)
Min 3 Consideration of Football Club request for Changing Room Alterations – plans for the proposed alterations had been available at the Parish Office in the past week and were displayed at this meeting for Councillors to study. It was explained that Winscombe second team had finished 2nd in their league but denied promotion to a higher division due to the current set out of the changing rooms even though the first team already was, and is still playing in the higher division. New league requirements specify that the ‘away’ football team must be able to exit the changing rooms from a separate entrance to the ‘home’ team and also have separate shower facilities. The proposals for internal alterations to the changing rooms have been accepted by the WMRG Committee and will be fully financed by Winscombe Football Club.
Min 5 Children’s Play Area – Mr Forbes was not seeking replacement locks for the drop down bollards but had ensured that the bollard damaged by contractors installing the new play area was replaced.
Min 6 Changing Rooms – a one-off credit for Ł629.21 is expected for the ‘return to sewerage’ water lost during a leak under the changing rooms.
The decisions of the WMRG Committee were considered and recommended for action by the Parish Council.
Proposed: Mrs A Brading Seconded: Mrs V McGann All in favour
38. PLAY AREA AND SKATE PARK COMMITTEE UPDATE – Mrs A Brading Annex 10
(Agenda item 20)
A snagging list has now been submitted to the play area provider for final works to be completed and a request for partial payment of the account has been requested.
A payment of Ł40,000 should be made to Record Playground Equipment with immediate effect as interim payment for the new WMRG play area. Remaining funds to be released on authorisation of the Play Area and Skate Park Committee
Proposed: Mrs A Brading Seconded: Mr A Forbes All in favour
The minutes of the Play Area and Skate Park Committee from the meeting dated 4th June 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record.
Proposed: Mr A Forbes Seconded: Mrs V McGann
All Committee members present were in favour
The decisions of the Committee were considered and recommended for action by the Parish Council.
Proposed: Mr G Lloyd Seconded: Mrs A Brading All in favour
Mrs Brading and Mr Forbes had previously declared a personal & prejudicial interest in the next two agenda items and left the room.
39. CHAIRMEN’S COMMITTEE REPORT – Mr C Sampson Annex 11
(Agenda item 21)
A request of the Chairman’s Committee was made by the Environment Committee in relation to advice for further action following the recent Towerhead Public Inquiry.
The minutes of the Chairmen’s Committee from the meeting dated 11th June 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record.
Proposed: Mr G Lloyd Seconded: Mrs P Cram
All Committee members present were in favour
The Environment Committee Chairman would send a letter of thanks to Mr Berry for his free advice.
40. ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE REPORT – Mr. G Lloyd Annex 12
(Agenda item 22)
The Chairman thanked Mr Lloyd for his hard work and efforts in relation to the Public Inquiry.
The minutes for the Environment Committee from the meeting dated 5th June 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record subject to Mrs Cram being removed from those listed as present and the correct spelling of her name being inserted under apologies for absence.
Proposed: Mr S Bridges Seconded: Mr R Jones
All Committee members present were in favour
It was reported that NSC has not approved the request of this Parish Council to be able to install ‘H’ markings on the road outside individual residences where known problems of parking occur.
The decisions of the Committee were considered and recommended for action by the Parish Council.
Proposed: Mr S Bridges Seconded: Miss B Roper All in favour
The minutes for the Environment Committee from the meeting dated 19th June 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record.
Proposed: Mr S Bridges Seconded: Mrs V McGann
All Committee members present were in favour
A discussion took place in which the three letters to be sent were considered. The letters would be signed by the Parish Council Chairman and sent on behalf of the Parish Council to (1) B.O.A.T sub-committee members against whom a claim for partial Public Inquiry costs was made, (2) the MP for this area and (3) North Somerset Council Chief Executive, copied to Ward Councillors. Letters would be approved by the Environment Committee at the next committee meeting and sent without further consultation with the full Parish Council.
The decisions of the Committee were considered and recommended for action by the Parish Council.
Proposed: Mr S Bridges Seconded: Mrs V McGann
10 in favour, Mr Williamson and Mrs Westlake voted against this action
Mrs Brading & Mr Forbes returned to the meeting.
41. AWARD LAND COMMITTEE REPORT – Mr. J Westlake Annex 13
(Agenda item 23)
The minutes of the Award Land Committee from the meeting dated 24th May 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record.
Proposed: Mrs P Bushnell Seconded: Mr R Jones
All Committee members present were in favour
There were no decisions of the Committee to be considered and recommended for action by the Parish Council.
The information panel has now been fixed to the quarry stone although some alteration and adjustment to this is required.
Mr Ayres, author of the Woodland Management Plan will be in the area on 28th June and all Councillors are invited to take a tour of the Award Land with him where details of the plan will be explained. No charge is being made by Mr Ayres for the visit and Councillors should meet at the Award Land at 1pm.
Concern was expressed that owners of the adjacent land may allow quad bikes to use the bridleway.
42. CEMETERY & ALLOTMENT COMMITTEE REPORT – Ms D Powell Annex 14
(Agenda item 24)
The minutes of the Cemetery & Allotment Committee from the meeting dated 25th May 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record subject to item 3 date being amended to 2007.
Proposed: Mr C Sampson Seconded: Mr G Luckett
All Committee members present were in favour
Min 6b Bristol Water will shortly be installing a water meter and connecting the new stand pipe at the allotments.
Min 9b 35 letters have now been sent with one request for an interview received.
Min 13a Mr Luckett is making enquiries regarding planning permission for change of use of the field.
The decisions of the Committee were considered and recommended for action by the Parish Council.
Proposed: Mr M Williamson Seconded: Mr G Lloyd All in favour
43. ANY OTHER BUSINESS (Agenda item 25) - none
With no further business, the meeting concluded at 9.58 pm
Signed................................................................... (Chairman)
Date.......................................................................
Winscombe and Sandford Parish Council acknowledges the general duty placed upon it by the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000. The Council will continue within its functions and policies to have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, promote equality of opportunity and promote racial equality of different racial groups.