STELLING MINNIS WEB SITE
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
|
|
|
Contact Stelling Minnis Parish Council e-mail: smpc.clerk@yahoo.co.uk |
USE THE LINKS ON THE LEFT TO NAVIGATE WITHIN THE STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL WEB PAGES.
IN SOME INSTANCES YOU WILL BE TAKEN TO A
NEW PAGE |
|
List of Councillors (Parish, District, County and MP) and sub committees |
|
|
Guide for new residents - issued by the Managers of Stelling Minnis Common - June 2007 |
|
|
Minutes of meetings of Managers of Stelling Minnis Common and Stelling Minnis Charitable Trust |
|
|
Search National database for Planning Permission Applications Recent planning applications received |
|
|
Street Map (produced by Youth Challenge Group) |
|
Visit Kent Association of Parish Councils - serving Parish and Town Councils in Kent.
Dates of future Parish Council Meetings:
2012
4th January
7th March
2nd May (Annual General Meeting)
23rd May (Annual Parish Meeting)
Unless otherwise advised, all meetings commence at 7.30pm and are held in Stelling Minnis Village Hall committee room, except the Annual Parish Meeting which will be held in the main hall.
May 2009 Annual General Meeting
COUNCILLORS (Parish, Shepway, Kent and MP)
The Stelling Minnis Parish Council is:-
John Haffenden (Chairman)
David Stuart (Vice Chairman)
Ann Day
Dagmar Smyth
Jeremy Speakman
Robert Hubble
Stewart Jackson
Clerk: Nick Smith
Treasurer/RFO: David Stuart
Internal Auditor: David Barlow
Note: The Windmill and museum are now under the control of the Stelling Minnis Mill and Museum Trust
SHEPWAY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR (Elham & Stelling Minnis)
Pamela Carr. e-mail : pamela.carr@shepway.gov.uk
KENT COUNTY COUNCILLOR (Elham Valley)
Susan Carey E-mail susan.carey@kent.gov.uk
MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT (Folkestone & Hythe)
Damien Collins e-mail: damian@damiancollins.com
contact via Houses of Parliament web page (contact members)- click to link
POLITICAL PARTIES SERVING STELLING MINNIS
Shepway conservatives - click to link
RIGHTS OF ACCESS (added 1 March 2003)
We have received a copy of a document which has the grand title :
Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000: Section68
Non-Statutory Guidance Note on the vehicular access across common and other land (England) regulations 2002
Statutory Instrument 2002 No. 1711
It is not as daunting as it sounds and is written in plain English. It runs to 18 pages and includes 49 frequently asked questions on this subject. It is very informative but any one reading it will understand that it is a complex subject, and why the Parish Council cannot give advice on an individual case.
Enquiries on the content (but not case specific advice) should be addressed to:
The Common Land Branch, Zone 1/05 Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6EB. Tel. 0117 372 8520 or 6266.
E-mail: commons.villagegreen@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Our thanks to Derek Blades for this information
Note added 2 November 2005:
In The Sunday Telegraph of Oct. 23rd 2005 there was an article about a person who had been having problems establishing a right of access across land owned by The National Trust. He eventually got it after a protracted delay. Residents of the Minnis should note that the procedure, if there are no snags, will take at least 3 months.
The useful information is that The Land Registry has a Practice Guide 52 on this subject and can be viewed at www.landregistry.gov.uk
See also the Guide for new residents- pdf file - click to download file
Legal requests relating to access across Stelling Minnis Common should be taken up with your own Solicitor and not made of the Parish Council, Minnis Managers or Charles Gooch of Savills.
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Statement of Accounts as at 31st March, 2010
|
Date
|
R E C E I P T S |
Parish Council |
Date |
P A Y M E N T S |
Parish Council |
|
1.4.09
2.4.09
15.4.09
7.10.09
22.3.10 |
B/fwd Current a/c Deposit a/c
Alliance Leicester – Interest
S.D.C. Precept
Museum 50% of Audit Fee (cash)
HMRC VAT Refund (1.4.07-1.3.10) |
55.99 715.88
14.21
3,950.00
69.00
201.74 |
13.5.09 “ “ “ “ “ 6.7.09 “ “ “ “ 2.9.09 7.9.09 22.10.09 “ 4.11.09 “ “ 14.1.10 “ 3.3.10 “ “ “
|
Broker Network Ltd Insurance premium K.A.L.C. Membership A.C.R.K. Membership C.P.R.E. Membership N Smith Clerk Salary + Expenses Clerk Training Day D. Stuart Travelling expenses N Smith Clerk Salary + Expenses Kent Air Ambulance In memory of Reg Emans B.C.T.V. Foothpath/Tree Warden Age Concern Donation N Smith Clerk Salary + Expenses Audit Commission Audit Fee Stelling Church Annual donation (churchyard upkeep) K.A.L.C. AGM – 2 lunches D. Stuart Travelling expenses Bossingham V. Hall Donation – Youth Club N. Smith Clerk Salary + Expenses S.D.C. Lotteries & Gambling Act Renewal N Smith Clerk Salary + Expenses N Smith Clerk Salary + Expenses D Stuart Travelling Expenses S Carter RFO (1.4.09 – 31.3.10) + Expenses S.M. Village Hall PC meetings (2008-09)
|
337.63 222.16 35.00 29.00 233.53 69.00 23.40 258.85 25.00 100.00 100.00 228.18 138.00 200.00 17.00 39.00 300.00 196.83 20.00 240.07 306.94 42.60 299.46 59.00 SUM(ABOVE) |
|
|
Statement of Accounts prepared by Mrs S Carter (RFO) and audited by Mr D Barlow (PC Internal Auditor)
|
|
|
Total Payments
Balance in hand at 1.4.10 Current a/c Deposit a/c |
3,520.65
756.08 730.09 |
|
31.3.10 |
Total receipts |
£5,006.82 |
31.03.10 |
|
£5,006.82 |
MINUTES OF MEETINGS (last 24 months) – LATEST FIRST
(Minutes are draft until ratified at the next Parish Council meeting)
For Annual Parish Meeting notes click here
to be held on
WEDNESDAY 4th
JANUARY at 7.30pm in the VILLAGE HALL
AGENDA
2. To receive Declarations
of Interest on Agenda items.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 2nd November 2011.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not
included in other agenda items) Reference
4.1 Neighbourhood Planning
Regulations & Community
Infrastructure Levy. Any comments be forwarded to the Clerk. 5.4 All
4.2 Cllr Day to raise with the
SMVH committee that the 20% SDC
rate
relief may be withdrawn. 7.9 Cllr Day
4.3 Contact Kent Highways again
for them to more specific on
which
road markings on Stone Street were to be refreshed;
also
improve visibility past the wooden fence on Stone Street.
8.1 Clerk
4.4 Contact Lyminge & Elham Parishes regarding future of police
support
and reporting arrangements.
8.4 Cllr Speakman
4.5 Contact Johnathan Hurdwell re information on Jubilee
Celebrations.
10 Clerk
4.6 Contact KCC re overcrowding on the 18A bus route.
17 Clerk
5. CORRESPONDENCE
5.1 To table items of late
correspondence.
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1
KALC Learning and Development Update November 2011
includes Localism Conference 28 Jan.
5.2.2
Kent Police – Update on Neighbourhood police in Stelling Minnis + 101 phone
service.
5.2.3 KCC - advice of problems on 18A bus route passed on to appropriate bus
planning team.
5.2.4 Digital switch over information from KALC.
5.2.5
KALC – Localism act 2011.
5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1
Kent Fire & Rescue questionnaire (Cllr Haffenden)
5.3.2
Kent Highways survey (Cllrs Stuart & Smyth)
5.3.3
Parish Play Survey (Cllr Hubble)
5.4
Items for discussion:
5.4.1 SDC Draft Corporate Plan.
5.4.2 Draft Private Sector Housing Assistance Policy 2012-2017.
5.4.3 SDC Overview and Scrutiny work programme.
5.4.4 War memorial - cost to insure.
6. PLANNING
6.1 To
table late planning applications received for consideration.
6.2 To table planning
applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with
prior to last meeting.
6.4 Other planning matters:
6.4.1
Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow View).
6.4.2
The Laurels – appeal against planning decision.
6.4.3
Planning applications – SDC agreed procedure with Owners of Minnis.
7. REPORTS
7.1 Kent County Council.
KCC Cllr Carey
7.2 Shepway District Council.
SDC Cllr Carr
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee.
Cllr Stuart
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group.
Cllr Stuart
7.5 Parish and Town Councils.
Cllr Stuart
7.6 Kent Community Police.
PCSO
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch.
Cllr Speakman
7.8 Minnis Managers.
Cllr Day
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall.
Cllr Day
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill
Cllr Speakman
7.11 Transport & Highways
Cllrs Smyth/Stuart
7.12 Joint Sports Facility.
Cllrs Haffenden/Hubble
7.13 Other reports.
8. HIGHWAYS
8.1
Safety improvements on Stone Street.
8.2 Meeting with Tony Hammock &
Pauline Rockett – 31 January 2012
9. FINANCE
9.1 Update of accounts 2011/12.
9.2 Accounts for payment.
9.3 Budget and precept 2012/13.
9.4 Requests for funding.
9.4.1
Victim Support
10 JUBILLEE CELEBRATIONS 2012
11 BROADBAND – BUSINES
CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS
12 HEALTH AND SAFETY
POLICY STATEMENT REVIEW
13. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
7th March, 2nd May (AGM) and 23
May (APM).
14. QUESTIONS
Clerk, 26 December 2011
UNAPROVED MINUTES of MEETING held on 2ND
NOVEMBER 2011
Present:
Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson, Hubble,
Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), N Smith (Clerk) and 2
Parishioners.
1. APOLOGIES: PC Farrow.
2. To receive Declarations of interest on agenda
items. Chairman declared a prejudicial interest and remaining Cllrs declared a
personal interest in planning application Y11/0921/SH – High Chimney Farm.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING –
Held
on 7th September 2011. Approved and signed
after para 7.12 was amended. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Speakman. All
agreed.
4. MATTERS
ARISING
4.1 Enquire about footpath maps from Ordnance
Survey. Clerk reported that a licence had been obtained from Ordnance Survey to
reproduce certain maps
free of all charges. Cllr Stuart suggested that Shepway District Council may be
able to assist with any printing.
4.2 Recirculate last
KALC notes from David. Done.
4.3 Raise
alternative wording for “no objections” on planning application comments to
better reflect the view of Parish Councils who may have concerns but prefer to
defer to the planning authority. Cllr
Stuart has put this on the agenda for the next planning users
group meeting.
4.4 Highways. Add note in October Parish Mag article re 4x4
owners who may be willing to help others in event of severe weather. Included within
Parish Council notes in November Parish Mag.
5. CORRESPONDENCE
5.1 To table items of late correspondence
5.1.1 KALC Parish News – November 2011
5.1.2 Clerk & Councils direct- November
5.1.3 KCC Minerals & Waste Sites Development Plan documents –
supplementary documents.
5.2 Items
circulated for information
5.2.1 Boundary commission changes – letter from Damian Collins, MP. (Agenda item 14 refers).
5.2.2 KALC Parish News (September).
5.2.3 CPRE/NALC guide “How to respond to planning applications”.
5.2.4 BTCV –
Tree and pond warden – request for donation and to confirm tree and pond
warden. Donations, agenda item 9.4 refers. Pond Warden section passed to Cllr Day for Minnis Managers. Tree Warden, agenda item 12 refers.
5.2.5 KALC
Notice of AGM.
5.3 Items
acted on: None
5.4 Items
for discussion: Neighbourhood Planning
Regulations & Community Infrastructure Levy. Chairman requested that any comments be forwarded
to the Clerk.
6. PLANNING
6.1 To table late planning applications received
for consideration. None.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with
since last meeting including decisions by Planning
Authority.
6.2.1 Y11/0921/SH,
High Chimney Farm, Split Lane, Stelling Minnis, Canterbury, Kent. Installation of a solar
photovoltaic system on the south facing roofslope of an agricultural
cold store building. Approve 3
– No objections 3. Chairman did not vote
as he was the applicant.
All Cllrs declared a personal interest.
6.3 To
table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last
meeting.
6.3.1 Y10/0608/SH – Revised plans for Stonegate
Farmers, Stone Street – change of use of existing building from egg production
unit to storage/distributions and other works. SDC Approved with time, material and highways conditions.
6.4 Other
planning matters:
6.4.1 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow View). Application
made by EDF to Minnis Managers for electricity supply to a brick
building, copy of information, supplied by Minnis Managers Secretary, forwarded
to Lisette Patching (SDC planning office).
6.4.2 SDC Local development framework.
Responded in line with Cllrs comments – circulated.
6.4.3 The Laurels – appeal against planning decision. Response made to Planning Inspector. Owners
have requested a meeting with a Councillor to discuss response – Cllr Haffenden
wrote a personal letter to them. Appeal
hearing date confirmed as 3rd November.
7. REPORTS
7.1 Kent
County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway District Council.
No report received from SDC Cllr Carr.
7.3 KALC
Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart reported that he had been unable to attend
last meeting.
7.4 SDC
Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart reported that meeting scheduled for end of
November.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
7.6 Kent
Community Police. PCSO Zazo reported that the neighbourhood police
PC and PCSO would change on 16 November. The new emphasis would be on the PCSO providing a neighbourhood
presence whilst the PC would concentrate on other duties. Response time target to remain at 15 minutes. In the interim report Speedwatch matters to the neighbourhood
police team under Sergeant Bloomfield. She mentioned the new 101 neighbourhood national police contact
number.
7.7 Police
liaison and Speedwatch. Cllr Speakman reported that recent Speedwatch sessions
had been held; Cara Cooper had assisted with a speed gun; no more sessions till
the spring.
7.8 Minnis
Managers. Cllr provided a written report, at appendix A.
7.9 Stelling
Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day reported that the Hall
Committee was concerned about rising
heating costs and how they could get funding
for double glazing. Cllr Stuart asked Cllr Day to raise
with the committee that the 20% SDC rate relief may be withdrawn because
of pressure to reduce SDC costs. The 80% statutory relief would remain.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported the windmill had
now closed for the season. The Mill was the only one in Kent that showed an
increase in attendance. The cream teas continued to be a major source of funds.
Progress being made on new signs. KCC will be
refurbishing Mill later this year. Mini Fete was a success.
7.11 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth said she
had not had to report any pot holes.
7.12 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden and
Hubble reported that the dedicated committee were looking for grants and will
be preparing details and expenditure for various elements of the facility. Will be applying for charitable status in 1st quarter of
2012. 60% of expenditure will be
on a multi-surface facilty. Cllr Stuart suggested that only the sports facility
aspect was likely to be revenue raising, all other elements were likely to be
drain on those funds. Cllr Haffenden
said that the committee were aware that neither SMPC nor UHPC would be involved
in any fund raising nor be financially responsible;
the committee were responding to the village appraisal and surveys etc.
7.13 Other
reports. None.
8. HIGHWAYS
8.1 Double white lines on Stone Street. Clerk
reported that a letter had been sent to Chris Maw (Kent Highways) regarding
total lack of promised action in respect of moving the
highways cabinet and refreshing road markings. Also included request to explain
why Shepway section of 18 bus
route through Wheelbarrow Town was different to that
from Street End to Bossingham and a request to remove now redundant Jubilee Farm direction
signs. Reply received 24/10 and circulated – highways cabinet will be removed and
road markings refreshed.
Update on Jubilee Farm sent to Kent Highways.
Clerk was asked to contact Kent Highways again for them to more specific
on which road markings were to be refreshed; also improve visibility
past the wooden fence on Stone Street. Suggestion that finger post on corner
Bossingham Road and Curtis Lane be moved to the
side of Bossingham Road.
8.2 Road
markings – centre white lines in Wheelbarrow Town. Covered in
letter sent to Chris Maw regarding Stone Street. Reply - no action proposed
for Wheelbarrow town apart from normal road repairs.
8.3 KCC
Cllr Carey’s request for prioritised works she may fund. Prioritised list sent
to Cllr Carey. Circulated
16 Oct. She has since replied (circulated
26 Oct) as adding “Ensuring all
existing road signs on Stone Street are clear of obstructions, clean and in
good condition”.
8.4 Speedwatch –
police contact after November. Refer to
Kent Police report (7.6). CllrSpeakman to contact Lyminge
& Elham Parishes regarding future of police support and reporting
arrangements.
8.5 Salt bin –
re-location of one in Wheelbarrow Town.
Clerk contacted Kent Highways. Bin not to be moved and will be cleared
of undergrowth
and filled.
8.6 Salt
bags. Discussed and agreed not to pursue provision of a salt bag or purchase of
a salt bin.
9. FINANCE
9.1 Update
of accounts 2011/12. Latest position
circulated to Cllrs.
9.2 Accounts
for payment.
Clerks Salary (Nett) £242.60
PAYE - October to December £ 90.96
Clerks expenses £ 17.89
Broadband project expenses £ 16.56
Cllr Stuart expenses £ 36.00
50% of Sports project cost to
Hire BVH for public event. £ 20.00
Payments proposed Cllr Smyth,
Seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Note: Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance
officer.
9.3 Budget 2012/13 and precept. Cllr Stuart
outlined his budget proposals and the reasons why he was suggesting a precept
of £4500 to cover on-going costs, less
the BTCV donation which would be paid by
the Minnis Managers, + a contingency of £200 + £100 to purchase a new printer for the Clerk's use + £100
allowed for the running costs of the Joint
Sports Project. He drew attention to the need to improve the Council's reserves. At least
a minimum of £1000 is needed in reserve to for Election Costs which could occur
at any time, and NALC advise that in addition a reserve of 40% of the precept is
needed. At present the projected
reserve at April 2012 would be
approximately £2415. Even a modest increase from the small surplus in a £4500
precept would not make much difference.
Cllr Stuarts proposals were
discussed at length together with the desire to keep any increase below
5%. A precept of £4400 was agreed, proposed
Cllr Hubble, seconded Cllr Speakman and
all agreed. The precept figure to be ratified at the January
meeting so that Clerk can then make a formal
request to SDC.
9.4 Discuss funding of BTCV – Parish Council or
Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that the Minnis Managers/FOSM would donate
£100 to BTCV in respect of
pond & tree wardens.
9.5 Requests
for funding None received.
10 JUBILLEE
CELEBRATIONS 2012. No further information. Clerk to write to Johnathan
Hurdwell for any available information.
11 BROADBAND
– BUSINES CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS Cllr Stuart reported
that 392 questionnaires were sent out and only 100 have been returned. Expected to make a formal bid in November/December. Projects still alive. Information on speeds was being
analysed to determine how quickly the signal broadband service diminishes with
distance from the exchange. Cllr Haffenden thanked the working group for their
efforts.
12 FOOTPATH
AND TREE WARDEN. One
application received for each of Footpath and Tree wardens. Martin Hart to be asked to
take on the footpath warden role. Evelyn MacRitchie to
take on the tree warden role, once she had completed the introductory course
with BTCV. Proposed Cllr Day
seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed.
13 NOTICEBOARDS
13.1 Review use of.
Both notice boards used by Parishioners. Formal notices are only displayed in the main one opposite the SM
Stores.
13.2 Maintenance. Notice board opposite shop still in need of a
bit of TLC, but OK for now. One opposite
Sunrise to continue to be used until it falls into disrepair when a decision can be made to replace or abandon.
14 BOUNDARY
COMMISSION PROPOSED CHANGES Response sent to Boundary
Commission and copied to Damian Collins. Circulated 16 Oct.
15 STANDING
ORDERS & FINANCIAL REGULATIONS REVIEWS
15.1 Standing orders review – Model Standing orders
issue 1 revised. Update still not received. Remove from agenda until update available.
16. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2012 - 4th January, 7th
March, 2nd May (AGM) and 23 May (APM).
17. QUESTIONS
Cllr Jackson raised a
question about overcrowding on the 18A bus route from Bossingham. Reported 17 children standing. Clerk to take up with KCC.
Meeting closed at 9.25pm
Signed ……………………………………………….
Date ………………..
APPENDIX A
Report
on Minnis Managers Meeting 12.10.2011 for Parish Council
The applications for a replacement Minnis Manager
following Derry Lowe’s resignation due to her move from the area, were
discussed and recommendations put to the Owners of the Minnis.
The electric fencing it to be moved
from behind Tarn Hows and repositioned opposite Coxsole Farm.
It was noted that the cattle were doing a good job
in flattening the bracken in the north grazing section and would be moved to
the south section.
A report on the improvement of the ponds in the
area was given and further work to ensue.
The horse and donkey charity who received all the
bales from the haymaking on the Minnis expressed their thanks. It was noted that hay is in short supply this
year and could have been sold privately, but the Managers honoured their
agreement with the charity.
The question of protecting the existing dormice on
the Minnis was discussed and an applicant is to be approached to take care of
this and report back to the Managers.
Ann
Day
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Approved MINUTES of
MEETING held on 7TH September 2011
(note: amenment made to 7.12 –
shown in red)
Present:
Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson,
Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also
present SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), N Smith (Clerk) and 1
Parishioner.
1. APOLOGIES:
KCC Cllr Susan Carey and PC Farrow.
2. To
receive Declarations of Interest on Agenda items. None
3. MINUTES
OF MEETING –
Held on 6th July 2011.
Approved and signed, proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Stuart, all agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Comment on review of poling District and
stations. Done – Comment to suggest boundary change to include all properties
in Wheelbarow Town + Droveway Bungalow and the Organic Nursery in polling
District AB.
4.2 Ask about KCC consultation with Parish
Councils on bus routes. Cllr Stuart reported that he had raised this with KCC.
Subsidised bus routes are the responsibility of KCC who do not consult with
Parish Councils on them.
4.3 Advise SDC on attendance to planning training
sessions. Attendance by 6 Cllrs and Clerk confirmed.
4.4 Respond on Maternity services in Kent. Cllr Smyth and Clerk responded to
Chairman HOSC (Nick Chard).
5. CORRESPONDENCE
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.1 Consultation for draft Shepway Housing Strategy.
5.1.2 Public rights of way maps – response from KCC PROW was that SMPC
expected to pay full cost £1500, KCC unable to provide service. Clerk to explore
provision of suitable map from Ordnance Survey.
5.1.3 KALC Responses to Open Services White Paper. Circulated.
5.1.4 SDC Core strategy Consultation committee – meeting organised by
Shepway area committee for 12th September.
5.2 Items
circulated for information.
5.2.1 Village of the year competition – ACRK.
5.2.2 Protocol for delivering affordable local needs
housing in Rural Kent.
5.2.3 New password for KALC web site effective from 1st
August 2011.
5.2.4 Open Public Services White Paper Consultation.
5.2.5 Funding opportunities (Crime and renewable heat
services).
5.2.6 Learning and Development update + Finance
conference. Agreed that Cllr Stuart should attend.
Proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Hubble. All
agreed.
5.2.7 RHS – Britain in Bloom.
5.2.8 Consultation on Countryside access (KCC).
5.2.9 Government Consultations on Local Planning
Regulations, Draft National Planning Policy Framework and Local Government
Resource Review.
5.2.10 KALC
– Learning & development courses.
5.2.11 Joint
Sports & Leisure facilities. Discussed under item
7.1.2
5.2.12 SDC – Representations on the core
strategy proposed submission document
Clerk to draft submission to SDC.
5.2.13 Countryside
voice.
5.2.14 ACRK
– Annual meeting and election of officers and management committee.
5.2.15 Clerks and Councils direct (August).
5.2.16 ACRK
– Village SOS.
5.3 Items
acted on: None
5.4 Items
for discussion:
5.4.1 Cesspools and Septic tank registrations. Information circulated. Brief
details in Sept. Parish Mag and on web site. SMPC to keep community
updated on developments. Registration now under review.
5.4.2 Tree and Footpath warden(s) to replace Derry
Lowe, who had recommended candidates.
Discussed and agreed that preference is for a single person to undertake both
roles. Advertisement to be placed in October Parish Mag.
5.4.3 Planning Training – Dates selected by 6 Cllrs and Clerk.
5.4.4 Diamond Jubilee mugs Discussed and agreed not to proceed.
6. PLANNING
6.1 To table late planning applications received
for consideration. None.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with
since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Y11/0624/SH – Oakwinton, Bossingham Road. Alterations and extensions to roof to provide additional living
accommodation. Approve 7:0. SDC
Approved with time and material conditions.
6.2.2 Y10/0608/SH
– Revised plans for Stonegate Farmers, Stone Street – change of use of existing
building from egg production unit to storage/distributions and other works. APPROVE 7:0.
6.2.3 Y11/0764/SH
– Chapel Farm, Bossingham Road – section 73 application
for the variation of condition 2 of planning application Y11/0314/SH to allow
the relocation of the sand school. No
objections 7:0 – with comments that although boundary hedge now more
protected SMPC still cannot support the application. Asked
that planning enforcement officer keep a watching brief on the site.
Cllrs noted that work appears to have been started before revised planning approval
given.
6.3 To
table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last
meeting.
6.3.1 Y11/0480/SH – Croucher Cottage, Minnis Lane. Re-rendering of the external walls together with the erection of
sections of 2.65m high fencing to the northern boundary. Approved with time and
materials conditions.
6.3.2 Y11/0511/SH – The Laurels, Stone Street. Section 73 application for removal of condition 2 of planning
permission 98/0750/SH to allow unrestricted occupation of the dwelling. Refused. (See 6.4.3 re appeal).
6.3.3 Y11/0314/SH – Chapel Farm, Bossingham Road. Formation of a sand school, extension to existing barn and
formation of a horse walking unit. Development Control Committee approved with conditions including
personal use only and no external lights.
6.3.4 Y11/0577/SH – Swallows Rest, Bossingham Road. Section 73 application to remove condition 4 of planning permission
Y08/0518/SH to allow installation of 3 first floor roof lights in the South
elevation. Approved
with time, materials and use of flat roof restriction.
6.3.5 Y11/0624 – Oakwinton, Bossingham Road. Alterations and extensions to the roof to provide additional living
accommodation. Approved
with time and materials conditions.
6.4 Other
planning matters:
6.4.1 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow
View). Planning application for retention of polytunnels went to development
Control Committee 2 August 2011. JH attended and spoke. Dev. Control Committee
approved with conditions as to use of the polytunnels and land for agriculture
only.
6.4.2 SDC Local development framework
6.4.3 The Laurels – appeal against planning decision.
Discussed and agreed to write in support of SDC decision not allow restriction
to be lifted.
6.4.4 Stelling Minnis Common owners need to be
included in planning applications as adjacent property owners and their
permission must be sought by relevant applicants. SMPC to check applications
submitted to their comment.
7. REPORTS
7.1 Kent
County Council. No report received from Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway
District Council. SDC Cllr Carr Reported that HOSC was unhappy with
the decision that Canterbury and Dover could loose their birthing units. Requested any knowledge on Anvil House, whether the door between
the annex and original building had been removed. 2 Parliamentary
boundaries may be lost in Kent, with some minor changes within Shepway, full
details from the Boundaries Commission expected soon. Town and Parish Councils may be asked to take
more responsibility. New waste bin erected by bus stop outside Rose &
Crown.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart had
prepared a report which Clerk would circulate.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart
reported that he would be proposing a change of wording on planning application
responses to change “no objections” to something more suitable to indicate
“defer to case officer”.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
7.6 Kent
Community Police. No report received from PC Farrow.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that Speedwatch will
continue and 3 new volunteers had come forward. Cllr Smyth suggested getting
the DofE award participants involved. Clerk to ask Superintendent Bradley who
speedwatch should report to when Ian Clark takes up new duties in November.
Speedwatch is valued by the communities. More volunteers are still required.
Mrs C Cooper will attend some sessions with her police speed gun.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Haffenden reported that
Charles Gooch had written to SDC many times about planning applications and the
need for the Minnis Owners to be included as adjacent land owners on relevant
applications. A vacancy for a Manager had arisen and this would be advertised
to widen the band of supporters. 400-600 bales of hay were gathered and donated
to a horse sanctuary.
7.9 Stelling
Minnis Village Hall. Meeting not held.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman
reported than the signs were being refurbished, discussions were in hand to
decide on how best to utilise the museum for artefacts - hope to have something
in place for the 2012 season. The art club had a 2 week display and there would
be a mini fete on 25 September.
7.11 Transport
& Highways. Cllr Stuart had prepared a written report which was circulated.
He drew attention to the Parish Portal and for someone to look at it and see if
it is suitable. Cllr Smyth said that some of the reports on it are confusing.
Parishes might wish to compile a list of 4x4 owners who may be prepared to help
out in bad weather. Cllr Haffenden to include something in
November Parish Mag; Clerk to receive offers of help. Other concerns
raised by SMPC – Oil/Diesel spillage Curtis Lane/Mill Lane; Sign post corner of
Bossingham Road/Curtis Lane damaged.
7.12 Joint
Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden said that the proposals put forward at the
recent event had not been well received by some SMPC
Parish Councillors, but the efforts of the small band of hard working
volunteers who had tried to move the project forward and put something for the
community to comment on should be recognised. Cllrs attending the event
commented – that the importance of the SM Village Appraisal should not be
ignored and that various age groups should be catered for; the 25-60 age group
should be catered for; a children’s play area would be underutilised,
especially in foul weather and evenings, whereas a multi sport facility surface
could be used in all weathers and all times of the day; the BBQ area and/or a
meeting area could perhaps incur safety issues – Mr D Barlow said that the
re-vamped Bossingham Village Hall could include provision of a Mothers and
Toddlers meeting area in the adjacent field; this should not become a Parish
Council enterprise and must be left to the Joint Sports Facility committee; the
facility must be sited near to the general public. Agreed that Cllr Haffenden would draft a
response to the event, thanking the volunteers for their efforts and for
putting on the open day, however more account of the requirements summarised in
the SMPC Village appraisal should be used when making the final decision on the
facilities to be provided. A representative of the committee should be invited
to the next PC meeting.
7.13 Other
reports. None.
8. HIGHWAYS
8.1 Double white lines on Stone Street. No
further movement. Suggestions made in
response to Stonegate Farmers planning application that improvements to Stone
Street/Curtis & Thorn lane junctions be improved as part of the
development. Clerk to write to Kent Highways to urge them to honour their
promise to move the highways recording box and refresh road markings.
8.2 Erosion
of grass verges by traffic movement on Highways. Work from Notice board to
opposite Orchard Villas was completed 19/20 July.
8.3 Kent AONB village name signs. Suggested locations – Curtis Lane as come off
Stone Street, plus two others and one in Wheelbarrow Town to be agreed with
AONB, Highways and Owners of Minnis, if applicable. Cost £420 each. AONB will
fund 50% - KCC Cllr Carey may fund 50%, she is considering. The signs help reduce speeding. Suggested that the existing sign on Minnis Green should be
retained.
8.4 Road
markings – centre white lines in Wheelbarrow Town. Logged with Highways
transportation dept as CSM 10603478.
Advised that because of funding limitations and
prioritisation of sites with personal injury incidents, funding for this scheme
is unlikely. Clerk to write to KCC Cllr Carey and KCC Highways on the
inconsistency of approach on the same road in the Upper to Lower Hardres
section compared to the Wheelbarrow Town section.
8.5 New
Highways contacts and personnel. Ann Norton has now retired.
8.6 Speedwatch
– police contact after November. Clerk to write to superintend Bradley.
8.7 Salt
bin – possible re-location of one in Wheelbarrow Town. Agreed,
Clerk to contact KCC Highways.
9. FINANCE
9.1 Update
of accounts 2011/12
Latest position circulated to Cllrs.
9.2 Accounts
for payment Items circulated to Cllrs with agenda, viz:-
Items already paid – to
be approved:
Clerks Salary
(net) £242.62 (Paid early to avoid bank
change, but cheque returned unpaid as bank changed quicker than expected,
replacement payment to be approved)
Councillor Training £72. (Cllr Jackson).
Items for approval:
SDC uncontested
election cost £51.03
Audit commission
fee £60.00
Broadband
project – envelopes £28.67
PAYE – Clerk
July-September £90.39
Finance Day
training (Cllr Stuart) £72.00
Proposed
Cllr Speakman seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he
is Finance Officer.
Credit
Windmill trust
did not want their £2.12 Santander banking error back.
9.3 Discuss
funding of BTCV – Parish Council or Minnis Managers. To be considered at next
meeting.
9.4 Requests
for funding - Discover Folkestone and Vitalese. Requests considered and rejected.
9.5 Change bank account to Co-op. Cllr Stuart
reported that account had now been changed from Santander to Co-op.
10 JUBILLEE
CELEBRATIONS 2012
Parish Council involvement & select
representative(s). Cllr Haffenden reported that he would be attending
a meeting next week. The UHPC contact is Steve Raynor.
11 BROADBAND
– BUSINES CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS Cllr Stuart reported
that a small working group had met, a questionnaire had been designed and this
would be distributed late September.
12 STANDING ORDERS &
FINANCIAL REGULATIONS REVIEWS
12.1 Standing orders review – Model Standing orders
issue 1 revised. Update still not received.
12.2 Financial
regulations review Amended version approved. Proposed Cllr Stuart seconded Cllr
Jackson. All agreed. Copies distributed to Cllrs.
13. DATES
OF NEXT MEETINGS
2011
- 2nd November, 2012
- 4th January, 7th
March, 2nd May (AGM) and 23 May (APM)
14. QUESTIONS
Mr
D Barlow asked about the removal of the Organic Farm signs now that the farm
shop had
closed.
Meeting
closed at 9.30pm
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Notes on KCC Highways
Seminar for Parish Councils – 11 July 2011
1)
Introduction by John Burr Chief Officer Highways
·
Restructuring due to 30% budget cuts. Many staff have gone or are going. Organisation divided into 5 groups:
·
Operations (i.e. reactive works, potholes etc our
main area of interest) + Highway Stewards – 2 areas, East Kent (Toby Howe) and
West Kent (Carol Valentine)
·
Programmed Works
·
Transportation e.g. bus services, passes etc
·
Commercial
·
Future Works i.e. planning – may go
·
New Contractor – not Ringway, but will be called
“Enterprise”. Was paid on cost plus basis but will now be per job (no pay for
repeating an unsatisfactory job). 5% of road network will be resurfaced every
year.
2)
Working with Parishes by Toby Howe East Kent Highway Manager
District
managers (ours Chris Maw) based in Maidstone. Ops Engineers (ours James Bowen)
+ Highway Stewards (3 per district, ours Tony Hammock) based at Ashford which
are our main contacts. Also 12 Highway inspectors who will check all Kent's
roads – but we do not contact directly. No liaison officer, we deal with our
steward. Will attend neighbourhood meetings (but not in the evening i.e. PC
meetings).
3)
Parish Portal by Phil Murphy
·
System has been redesigned – should be live by 18
July. The way they really want us to work for parish reports, fault reporting
and all parish information. Jobs will be identified by coordinates and not road
numbers – there was a lot of confusion between parishes where roads crossed
several parishes. Use on line map to locate faults
·
Parishes need to re-register, register password and
name one person per parish.
·
THIS NEEDS CONSIDERATION AND ACTION BY US INCLUDING
SOMEONE TO CHECK THE SITE AND SEE WHAT IS ACTUALLY INVOLVED.
4)
Planning by Bob White
Mainly working with Districts as Statutory
consultees. A handbook on rural streets and lanes is to be
published – need to look out for.
5)
KHS Campaigns by Toby Howe
·
Last year's distribution of salt bags was
considered to have been successful and will be repeated.
·
District Councils will be involved in snow
clearance, mainly in towns
·
180 farmers on 3 year contracts for snow clearing.
·
Winter damage repairs have all been completed
·
Schedule of is listed on website on a parish by
Parish basis
6)
Members Highway Fund by Kirsty Williams – Coordinator
·
£25,000 per member – pooling between members is
possible and also roll over between years.
·
Must be highway related such as site
investigations, speed surveys, traffic calming, signs and lines, fencing and
barriers, resurfacing, street lights, drainage, speed guns, paying police
overtime say foe enforcement, taxis and bus supplements, vegetation removal,
etc. Identify Schemes locally.
7)
Other topics Rail Action Plans by Stephen Gasche and KALC by Terry Martin
NB
- In Questions there was a suggestion that parishes might compile a list of 4x4
owners who would volunteer to help locally in the winter.
David
Stuart
17
July 2011
KALC Shepway Area
Committee – 21 July 2011
·
Elections Frank Hobbs of Postling re-elected
Chairman. D. Stuart also re-elected to Kent Executive Committee.
·
Speakers Peter Wignall and Dylan Jeffery on the
organisation of local elections. E-mail to councillors with key points (voting
locations, boundary review, parliamentary boundaries review) has already been
circulated. Undertook to hold a pre-election briefing next time.
·
Report from Executive Committee.
·
New Secretary – Terry Martin now in post
·
Finance 2010-11 outcome deficit of £11k due to
reduction in training income and higher salary payments than was expected.
2012-13 budget presented. Still concern at
contribution to NALC – 20%, not considered good value. Subscription proposals –
no change for smaller councils, modest increase for larger councils.
·
Membership 92.3%, in Shepway only Ivychurch PC not
a member.
·
AGM Speakers confirmed Chief Constable, Director of
KCC Highways, and CO of Kent Fire and Rescue. Motions – so far – on impact of
cuts to services (Fire and Ambulance), especially in rural areas.
·
National issues Complaints about NALC Exec tending
to bypass County Associations and going direct to councils. Examples quoted.
·
Note NALC advice on Future Standards of Conduct of
Members i.e. abolition of Standards Board for England and nothing to replace
it.
·
NB Extra meeting of exec on 20 Aug to consider
response to Government White paper on Open Public Services and a proposal for
NALC to merge with Clerks Associations
·
Transportation Board – Pot holes still a priority.
Programme of tarmac and gritting. Customer satisfaction survey still producing
poor results. Roundhill tunnel repairs on A20 likely to result in delays until
2012
·
KALC Training course could be run locally if
sufficient demand from a small group of councils.
·
KALC Newsletter now only electronic. Any feedback?
Is it OK?
David
Stuart
15
August 2011
STELLING MINNIS
PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of meeting held 6th July 2011
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting),
Day, Jackson, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present N Smith (Clerk),
WPC Farrow and PCSO Zazo.
Before the meeting began Councillor Jackson signed the acceptance of office.
The Chairman opened the meeting by welcoming Councillor Stewart Jackson, WPC
Carly Farrow and PCSO Laura Zazo.
1. APOLOGIES: KCC Cllr Susan Carey, SDC Cllr Carr and
David Barlow (Internal Auditor),
2. To receive Declarations of
Interest on Agenda items. None
3. MINUTES OF MEETING –
3.1 Held on 11 May 2011. Approved and signed, proposed Cllr Day and seconded
Cllr Smyth, all agreed.
3.2 Special meeting held on 1st June 2011. Approved and signed, proposed Cllr
Day and seconded Cllr Smyth, all agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Cllr Haffenden to bring definitive PROW map to July meeting (see item
6.4.2).
4.2 Obtain and evaluate revised model standing orders. Discussed
under item 14.1.
4.3 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage – Clerk to contact Ms Patching.
Done, planning application received.
4.4 Clerk to write to Rodney Williamson (KALC) re his retirement. Done
4.5 Clerk to invite PC Trevor Moody to APM. PC Moody was not available as he
was on duty that evening in Folkestone. New Community WPC,
Carly Farrow. Invited to meetings.
4.6 David to Contact SDC re Broadband speeds. Refer to agenda item 13.
4.7 Clerk to review and circulate financial regulations. Draft e-mailed to Cllr
and copy on circulation for comment prior to ratification at September meeting.
5 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING – Agreed
that this agenda item was historical and no longer relevant. To be removed from
future agenda.
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence.
6.1.1 Letter of thanks from Geoff Wright for donation to St Mary’s Churchyard.
6.1.2 KALC – Vision for Kent – survey.
6.1.3 Kent fire & rescue performance plan 2011/12
6.1.4 KALC - Kent Forum briefing
6.1.5 Letter of thanks from Age Concern for donation.
6.1.6 Letter from Kent Police re Stone Street (see item 10.1).
6.1.7 From Donna Rixson re Stone Street (see item 10.1)
6.1.8 Review of poling district and stations, on circulation for comments by 3
August.
6.2 Items circulated for information.
6.2.1 Responses from KCC and Stagecoach on 558 bus service.
6.2.2 Parish Councillor training by SDC.
6.2.3 Shepway District Council Local Development Framework - Core Strategy
6.2.4 KALC Councillors conference & training
6.2.5 Maternity services in East Kent
6.3 Items acted on: None
6.4 Items for discussion:
6.4.1 558 Bus service – response from Stagecoach & KCC. Cllr Haffenden
outlined the history of this item and summarised correspondence received from
both KCC and Stagecoach. KCC had said that they do not consult with Parish
Councils on bus services and Stagecoach said that they had carried out a route
risk assessment and would use the best vehicle for the route; however they did
say that they would use a singled deck bus on non schooldays and Saturdays.
Cllr Stuart to ask about the consultation process on bus routes. Cllr Day said that
the bus times did not align with the probable public need.
6.4.2 Public rights of way – should local map be displayed. Discussed and it
was agreed that Clerk would investigate with the Public Rights of Way Office
the availability and cost of a suitable plastic bonded version which could be
displayed on the rear of the notice board. Cllr Day would ask the Minnis
Managers about displaying the map on one of the Minnis interpretation boards as
well.
6.4.3 Councillor training (SDC & KALC events): Discussed. Clerk to advise
SDC that all Cllrs plus himself wished to attend the planning training sessions
– topics to be put forward – “Calling in” and rewording of “no objections” in
responses to applications. Cllr Jackson to attend the Clerks conference and
training day.
6.4.4 Maternity Services in Kent. Discussed, Cllr Smyth and
Clerk to respond that Council does not support the closure of the maternity
unit at Kent and Canterbury Hospital.
7. PLANNING
7.1 To table late planning applications received for
consideration. None
7.2 To table planning applications dealt with since
last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
7.2.1 Y11/0388/SH – Abbottswood, Fishers Lane. Object 3 No Objection 3.
7.2.2 Y11/0314/SH – Chapel Farm, Bossingham Road. Formation
of a sand school, extension to existing barn and provision of a horse walking
unit. Requests made to SDC Planning to consider this in conjunction with
application Y11/0313/SH. Also request to SDC Cllr Carr to “call in” to planning
committee – confirmed as acted on. Object 6:0 Went to Development Control
Committee 21 June.
7.2.3 Y11/0464/SH – Malt Barn, Bossingham Road. Erection of a
detached garage. Approve 6:0. Approved by SDC with
time and material conditions.
7.2.4 Y11/0416/SH – Little Hatch, Bossingham Road. Erection
of a two storey dwelling and detached carport store following demolition of
existing dwelling. Revision of original application.
Circulated to Cllr 17/5/11. Approve 5: No objections 1. Approved
by SDC with time, material, bicycle storage and driveway surface conditions.
7.2.5 Y11/0426/SH – Land Rear of St Bernadette Cottage, Harvest Lane. Retention of 2 polytunnels. Object 4: No objection 3. David
declared an interest as a neighbour. Concern expressed over this being a
“creeping development”. Various discrepancies on plan and
application drawn to attention of the planning officer.
7.2.6 Y11/0480/SH – Croucher Cottage, Minnis Lane. Re-rendering
of the external walls together with the erection of sections of 2.65M high
fencing to the northern boundary. Original views were: Re –rendering
Approve 7:0. Fencing Approve 2: No objections 2: Object 3. SDC Planning officer
had requested a response for the whole planning application as a single item
and not split. The application was discussed in detail and agreed that response
to SDC would be No Objection 7:0, with concerns raised
over the height of the fence.
7.2.7 Y11/0511/SH – The Laurels, Stone Street. Erection of an
agricultural dwelling – removal of condition 2 of planning permission
98/0750/SH to allow unrestricted occupation of the dwelling. No
objections 6: Object 1.
7.2.8 Y11/0577/SH – Swallows Rest, Bossingham Road, Removal
of condition 4 of application Y08/0518/SH to allow installation of 3 first
floor roof lights in the South elevation. Object 3: No objection 4
7.2.9 Y11/0624/SH – Oakwinton, Bossingham Road. Alterations
and extensions to the roof to provide additional living accommodation. Circulated to Cllrs 2 July 2011.
7.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting.
7.3.1 Y10/1105/SH – The Old Orchard, Lime Kiln Lane, Petham. Withdrawn
26/05/2011.
7.3.2 Y11/0313.SH – Chapel Farm, Bossingham Road. Erection of an extension to
the North East elevation following removal of existing outbuildings together
with the conversion of existing stable block/lean to store to a double garage
and store. Withdrawn 10/6/2011.
7.4 Other planning matters:
7.4.1 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow View SDC still observing
any activities on the site.
7.4.2 Vehicles on land adjacent to Croucher Cottage. Discussed and agreed that
Council should not be directly involved, other than comments which had been
made to the planning officer as part of the first response to planning
application Y11/0480/SH, however Council would consider supporting any
application made to SDC about the problem by any of the neighbours.
8. REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC
Cllr Carey, although she had submitted some suggestions for consideration under
Highways.
8.2 Shepway District Council. No report received from
SDC Cllr Carr
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. No meeting held.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart presented a written report - appendix
A.
8.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
8.6 Kent Community Police. WPC Farrow & PCSO Zazo
said that there had been reports of a suspicious vehicle near Six Mile Garage
following teenage girls. The person had been spoken to and it was not linked to
a recent abduction case in East Kent. Otherwise there had been nothing of note
happening. Cllr Speakman asked if the community police team would be able to
give a presence at some speedwatch sessions, which WPC Farrow agreed she would.
To keep an eye open for scrap metal carrying open back
vehicles. One word of general advice would be to beware of windows being
left open on ground floors. Cllr Haffenden said that with the Hare Coursing
season coming up to keep an eye open for unauthorised vehicles on farm land.
8.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that the next
session would begin in early August.
8.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day had nothing to report; meeting to be held next
week.
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day had nothing
to report as she had been unable to attend the last meeting.
8.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the windmill fete
was being held on 16th July. The Trust was pursuing a heritage lottery grant
and was in discussion with KCC. There was a need to consult with residents and
the best way to do this was being explored. Cllr Hubble asked if the mill
worked – yes if the wind is in the right direction. A working mill day, by
invitation only, was suggested.
8.11 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth reported that pot holes were not
always repaired when KCC said they were. Curtis Lane is becoming a pot hole problem area.
8.12 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden reported that the new committee
needed to reapply for planning permission as the original permission had
expired. The new committee were moving forward with great enthusiasm
8.13 Other reports - None
9. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
Feedback and improvements for 2012. The event was discussed and agreed
that it was a great success; the same format would be used next year. Clubs and
societies would be asked for a short written report to provide a record of
events in the community.
10. HIGHWAYS
10.1 Double white lines on Stone Street.
Reply received from Kent Police Martin Bradley who confirmed that Kent Police
could not support double white lines but would support a no overtaking zone;
however KCC Highways were not able to introduce one. The meeting held between
Kent Police and KCC Highways was to explore other improvements that could be
made now that double white lines had been discounted. Donna Rixson from KCC
Highways replied that she was still trying to identify funds to pay for the
lining improvements. KCC Cllr Susan wrote to say that one of several schemes
she is considering funding was to provide extra bright cats eyes on that
section of Stone Street.
10.2 Erosion of grass verges by traffic movement on Highways. Confirmed that an order had been placed to provide kerbing from
Notice Board to the end of that section of Minnis Lane (opposite Orchard
Villas). Also confirmed that the cut off via Mill Lane
is not an
authorised route for the 556 bus. Details of
registration number of bus to be reported to Kent Highways.
10.3 Dorman Varietext vehicle activated signs. Guidelines and costs from KALC
circulated to Cllrs - approx £3K + maintenance. KCC Cllr Susan Cary was also
considering funding for a sign to be shared with other Parishes. She would also
be willing to assist with any request SMPC makes where they are proving
funding. Clerk to reply to KCC Cllr Carey that they would welcome her funding
vehicle activated sign to be shared with other parishes.
10.4 Kent AONB village name signs. Discussed and
agreed that Cllrs would like more information on proposed locations. Clerk to
enquire.
10.5 Road markings – centre white lines. Cllr Hubble asked if centre white
lines could be provided in Wheelbarrow Town between the Farm and Jonquil
cottage - a recent accident might have been avoided if lines existed. Clerk to
place request with KCC Highways.
10.6 New Highways contacts and personnel. List circulated.
11. FINANCE
11.1 Update of accounts 2011/12
11.2 Accounts for payment
Clerks PAYE to HMRC 89.22 (paid)
Chairman’s Allowance (APM) 48.48 (paid)
These two accounts had to be paid. Retrospective approval given – proposed Cllr
Speakman, seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed.
(Note Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is also Finance Officer)
Clerk Salary Net June & July 237.92
Clerks expenses 45.02
RFO Expenses 21.21
Councillors expenses 23.40
Payment proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed
(Note Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is also Finance Officer)
Cllr Stuart said that the payment of £300 for the Bossingham Youth Club
approved in the May meeting had not been paid as there was a question over who
to pay. He proposed to Pay Upper Hardres Parish Council who would then fund the
Youth club with both theirs and SMPC’s contributions.
Cllr Stuart also said that £2.12 needed to be refunded to the Windmill Trust.
This sum was transferred to SMPC accounts from the Windmill account when
Santander erroneously closed both SMPC and Windmill deposit accounts. Proposed
Cllr Jackson, seconded Cllr Smyth, All agreed.
11.3 Discuss funding of BTCV – Parish Council or Minnis Managers. Discussed. Cllr Day to ascertain what contribution the
Minnis Managers/FOSM were making to BTCV in respect of Pond and Tree Warden.
SMPC would then consider making a contribution to bring the total up to £200.
11.4 Requests for funding. None received
11.5 Change bank account or remain with Santander. Cllr Stuart outlined the
problems SMPC had with Santander Bank. The KALC recommended alternative was the
Co-op bank. 5 Cllrs to be signatories, including Cllr Stuart as finance
officer, Clerk to be contact point. Proposed to close the account with
Santander and transfer all funds to a new Co-op account with signatories being
Cllrs Stuart, Day, Hubble, Smyth & Haffenden with
Clerk being the contact point with authority to talk to the bank. Proposed Cllr
Day seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
Cllr Stuart to circulate a draft application form for all Councillors and Clerk
to confirm relevant personal details, he would then complete the actual
application form for Cllrs and Clerk to sign.
The suggested user name and password for telephone enquiries was agreed.
12 JUBILLEE CELEBRATIONS 2012
Parish Council involvement & select representative(s). No action
until Upper Hardres Parish Council has held discussions with Johnathan
Hurdwell. Defer to next meeting.
13 BROADBAND – BUSINES CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS
Update and setting up of a working group. Cllr Stuart said that two Broadband
upgrade schemes had been approved by KCC. One for Elmsted and Hastingleigh was
rejected as being too small. SDC had suggested that they re-apply incorporating
Stelling Minnis. There was now a need to gather information to make a case.
Discussed how best to distribute a questionnaire, which SDC would print. Working party to be setup, lead by Cllr Stuart.
14 STANDING ORDERS & FINANCIAL REGULATIONS REVIEWS
14.1 Standing orders review – Model Standing orders issue 1 revised. Clerk
reported that KALC were not yet able to obtain the update to the Model Standing
orders. Defer until update becomes available.
14.2 Financial regulations review. Updated and circulated for comments etc. To
be ratified at the September meeting.
15 REGISTER OF INTEREST
Should register of interest made be shared with other
Councillors?
Cllr Stuart said that he felt that Council would be seen to be more open if the
register of interests were circulated amongst Cllrs. Discussed and agreed that
as copies of the register were held by the Clerk, which any member of the
public could request to see, and that Cllrs had to declare any interests at
each meeting there was no need to circulate them.
16. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2011 - 7th September, 2nd November,
2012 - 4th January, 7th March, 2nd May (AGM) and 23 May (APM)
17. QUESTIONS
None
Meeting closed at 9.50
Signed by J Haffenden (Chairman) 7 September 2011
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
REPORTS FOR METING 6th JULY 2011
SDC – Town and Parish Councils Planning Users Group – 8 June 2011
New system of Fees for Planning Applications. Costs must be self financing but
starting date is yet to be published – maybe April 2012
Progress on LDF. Draft to go to SDC Cabinet for approval 0n 13 July
Public consultation August and September, then comments will be considered.
Document to go to Planning Inspectorate early 2012
Major plans are 8000 new houses to 2026. ie 400/year.
Major development sites are Folkestone barracks, The Seafront, Folkestone
Racecourse, Nickolls quarry and Sellindge. Smaller sites will be added later.
Localism Bill Probably Autumn for final approval. Many
details for PCs to consider. I suggest that council waits for a full
briefing on impact, and changes to local planning rules which will be major.
Section 106 agreements will be scaled back but there will a levy on new
developments to pay for facilities (100 sq m cut off) – some cash may come to PCs(?). There may be a new homes bonus from Government but
how it will be paid is not clear. Tougher enforcement is promised. Pre
application consultation will be required for major developments.
E-consultation has temporarily come to a halt due to problems with IT provider.
UK Planning website is getting difficult to use.
Planning training for new councillors. Agreed for Hythe and Sandgate. Planning will write to other
councils to ascertain extent of demand and perhaps identify topics. Suggestion
was for about 3 sessions, one of which would be for North Downs parishes. A major
topic might be – material considerations – what applies to planning.
Horse keeping – grazing only is not change of use but buildings, jumps and
stables are. (we have had briefing notes)
Poly tunnels – 2007 letter gave guidance (but isn't very helpful – I have a
copy if anyone wants to see it)
Solar panels in Conservation Areas. Definitely need permission if on the front
of house and are clearly visible.
D G Stuart 25 – 06 - 2011
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING (AGM) held on 11th May 2011
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and
Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr Carr, N Smith (Clerk) and 3 members of the
public.
Before the meeting began all Councillors signed their
acceptance of office.
1 ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN. Cllr Stuart took the chair.
Cllr Haffenden was proposed as Chairman by Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth.
There were no other nominations. Cllr Haffenden accepted the nomination and was
elected unanimously. The acceptance of office was signed.
2 ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN. Cllr Haffenden took the
chair for the rest of the meeting. Cllr Stuart was nominated by Cllr Smyth and
proposed by Cllr Day. Cllr Stuart accepted the nomination and was elected unanimously.
3. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor).
4. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – None
5. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 27th April were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr
Smyth. All agreed.
6. MATTERS ARISING
6.1 Letter of thanks to Trevor Moody. Cllr Haffenden confirmed a letter of
thanks had been sent.
6.2 Letter to Stagecoach re 558 bus service being double deck. Clerk confirmed
that letter had been sent.
6.3 Letter to Lisette Patching re land adjacent to St
Bernadette. Clerk confirmed that he had e-mailed Ms Patching with regard to the
land.
7 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
7.1 Co-option of Councillor to fill vacancy. Formal notice placed on
notice board and also note included in May Parish Mag. Two applications had
been received. Meeting to fill vacancy to be arranged by
Clerk after 31/5/11.
8. CORRESPONDENCE
8.1 To table items of late correspondence.
8.1.1 Declaration of interest forms – Cllr Hubble to compete and send to SDC
Monitoring Officer. Other Cllrs to check if there are any changes from the
previous declarations and if necessary submit a new declaration.
8.1.2 Letter from Mr Rundle re 558 bus service being double deck. Mr Rundle was
invited to elaborate on his concerns. Cllr Haffenden confirmed all concerns had
been raised with KCC & Stagecoach.
8.2 Items circulated for information
8.2.1 KCC Country Side Access team regarding vegetation cutting on PROWs. Cllr
Stuart reported that 2 Parishes had maps on display showing all PROWs, was this
something that SMPC might do. Discussed – Cllr Haffenden will bring map to July
meeting for further debate.
8.3 Items acted on: Latest updated version of model standing orders received
and to be evaluated by Clerk to ascertain changes and then circulated to Cllrs
for approval etc.
8.4 Items for discussion: None.
9. PLANNING
9.1 To table late planning applications received for
consideration.
Y11/0388/SH – Abbotswood, Fishers Lane. Circulated prior to
meeting. Discussed in detail, Cllr voted 3 No objections: 3 Object.
9.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by Planning Authority. None.
9.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting. None.
9.4 Other planning matters:
9.4.1 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow View). No response to date
from Lisette Patching. Cllr expressed concerns that there were no sewage or
water facilities on the site. Polytunnels visible from St
Bernadette Cottage. Clerk to contact Ms Patching again at end of May.
10. REPORTS
10.1 Kent County Council. No report given.
10.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported
that she had contacted Kent Police re loss of PC Trevor Moody and had received
assurance that sufficient cover was provided and a team from Canterbury could
be called on if necessary. She also reminded Cllrs that she could “call in” any
planning application to go before the development Control Committee, if Cllrs
wished.
10.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at
Appendix A. He highlighted a few points: Hedge cutting - not appropriate for
Parishes to do the work. Standards Board – still active.
Parish Elections – cost to Parishes within SDC is £800, in Ashford BC is Nil. Suggested that Clerk write to Rodney Williamson thanking him for
his support and wishing him well on his pending retirement.
10.4 SDC Planning Users Group. No meeting held.
10.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
10.6 Kent Community Police. No report given. PC Trevor
Moody to be invited to APM.
10.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that speedwatch
sessions had started again with 3 sessions a week. In first day 5 people had
been reported speeding.
10.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day provided a written report, at appendix A.
10.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Mr J Hurdwell reported that £500 had been
raised at the event to celebrate the royal wedding, which goes towards to the
£3K to annually run and service the hall. Cracking in the support pillars was being
dealt with.
10.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that opening days were
well attended. The Mill was due to be refurbished this year – KCC pays as they
own the mill. The Museum – information signs being replaced in both museum and
mill. Cllr Hubble asked if there was any publicity material available relating
to the Mill and Museum which could be used by B&B establishments, for
example.
10.11 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth said that no new pot holes had been
reported.
10.12 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden reported that a new committee had
been formed with a revolving chairman. Proposal plans still with previous
chairman.
10.13 Other reports - None
.
11 ELECTION OF TRUSTEES AND REPRESENTATIVES
The following Cllrs agreed to be nominated for
positions and were elected unanimously.
11.1 Trustees:
Stelling Minnis Common Trust – Cllr Haffenden.
Windmill & Museum Trust – Cllr Speakman.
Stelling Minnis Village Hall – Cllr Day.
11.2 External Bodies – representatives
KALC Shepway area committee (2 posts) – Cllrs Stuart & Speakman.
SDC Planning user group (1 or more posts) – Cllr Stuart.
Minnis Managers representative – Cllr Day.
Stelling Minnis Village Hall representative – Cllr Day.
Bossingham Village Hall observer (if required) – Agreed not needed.
Joint Sports Facility - Cllr Hubble.
11.3 Other
Speedwatch co-ordinator – Cllr Speakman.
Police Liaison – Cllr Speakman.
Highways – Cllrs Smyth & Stuart.
Jubilee celebration committee/co-coordinator – agreed to defer to next meeting.
Cllr Haffenden said that the roll would be to liaise with Bossingham and
Stelling Minnis to ensure that there was not a clash of events. Parish Council
would not lead on any events within the Village.
Broadband committee – agreed to defer till next meeting.
Other - None
12. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
Discussed and agreed that arrangements were in hand. Clerk confirmed that the
hall would be open at 7.00pm. Numbers to cater for discussed.
13. HIGHWAYS
13.1 Double white lines on Stone Street. Cllr
Haffenden outlined the progress to date in that the Police and KCC were no
longer able to support double white lines, no overtaking signs or ladder
hatching. KCC originally supported double white lines, and then later reduced
that to a no overtaking zone with coloured tarmac following police advice.
Police supported ladder hatching and no overtaking zone. Formal reply still awaited from Police. SDC Cllr Carr said that Parish Council
should make a formal complaint to the KCC Cabinet member.
Request sent to Ann Norton to cut back the cow parsley, confirmed that she had
asked for the work to be done. Still not done at time of
meeting
13.2 Erosion of grass verges by traffic movement on Highways. Cllr
Stuart reported that 4 Cllrs and Clerk met Chris Maws and Tony Hammock of KCC Highways
on 10th May. Discussed strengthening road edges between Rose & Crown and
Orchard Cottages, both sides; the triangle outside Rose and Crown; traffic
eroding the grass verge on the corner of Curtis Lane/Minnis Lane and the
morning 556 bus eroding the grass verge on the corner of Curtis Lane and the
Mill Lane slip road. Chris Maws had said funds were limited but he did agree to
do something about the edge in Minnis Lane from the notice board to opposite
Orchard Cottages. He would also enquire which route the 556 morning bus was
supposed to take through the village.
Cllr Hubble said that he had been asked by residents about repairs to roads
through wheelbarrow Town.
Cllr Haffenden thanked all for attending the meeting.
13.3 Dorman Varietext vehicle activated signs. Clerk now has application form
for grant support from KCC, needs to get price confirmed etc.
14. FINANCE
14.1 Update of accounts 2011/12 Cllrs had been circulated statement of accounts
to date.
14.2 Accounts for payment:
Insurance £313.43
Clerks Salary April & May (Nett) £237.92
(Cllr Stuart drew attention to £52.78 which had been set aside for Clerks PAYE)
Payments proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed. (Note Cllr Stuart
did not vote as he is also RFO)
Donations:
Age Concern £100
Youth Club £300
Church closed Graveyard £200
Proposed for payment Cllr Hubble, seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed. (Note
Cllr Stuart did not vote as he also RFO).
Payment of £100 to BCTV was discussed. Cllr Day thought that the Minnis
Managers should pay this, however it was agreed that the role of the tree
warden was wider than just the Minnis. Cllr Haffenden proposed that Parish
Council should make a contribution to BCTV. Agreed to hold
over decision on contribution until the next meeting.
14.3 Requests for funding - None
14.4 Change bank account or remain with Santander. Agreed to remain with
Santander for the time being – discuss again at next meeting.
14 BROADBAND – BUSINESS CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS
Agreed that a villager with knowledge on Broadband would be best to lead this
project. Cllr Stuart said that he would contact SDC regarding Broadband speeds
in the community.
15 FINANCIAL REGULATIONS REVIEW
Need to review financial regulations following change
of salaries to include PAYE. Clerk to review and circulate draft for discussion
and approval at next meeting in July.
17. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
6th July, 7th September, 2nd November, 4th January, 7th March, 2nd May (AGM)
and 23 May (APM)
18. QUESTIONS – none.
Meeting closed at 9.23pm.
Signed by J Haffenden (Chairman) 6 July 2011
APPENDIX A
KALC -Shepwav Area Committee - 21 April 2011
Matters Arising
Hedge and Verge Cutting - can PCs do this work? In response to a question KCC Highways
replied that present contracts are set until 2012. There is to be a 30%
reduction in the budget (will number of cuts be reduced?). KCCs own Landscape
Services are looking for work.
KALC Executive Committee
Rodney Williamson - the Secretary retires on 1 July. Replacement process is in
hand.
KCC Highways - major reorganisation from September-fewer
senior posts - staff have to re-apply for their
Jobs.
NALC rejection of KALC motion on number of councils one should be able to serve
on - no reply to KALC protest
KALC Parish News - gone electronic - some protests - will be reviewed after 2
issues - please make feelings known.
Finance - outcome for 2010-11 deficit of £4k in £180k - mainly due to reduced
income from training. Subs
agreed.
AGM 12 Nov. - motions please. Speakers, Chief constable, John
Burr of Highways, Director of Kent Fire and Rescue.
Abolition of Standards Board - much discussed. Concern was at lack of anything
to replace present system. Motion passed asking NALC to press for some kind of
national system rather than districts trying to develop individual schemes.
NALC Problems 3 SE Counties still unhappy with service. They are considering
withdrawing and "going it
alone". KALC is uncertain about joining them. Doubts
about, finance, viability of services, and influence.
Problems may be resolved with changes of personnel.
KCC considering setting up KENT FORUM - a system of Locality Boards - as a
response to Localism Bill.
Lowest tier ~ district based -with lots of bodies. KALC concerned that proposal
only says PCs "could" be
involved not "should".
Joint Transportation Board - Will press for PC rep to be a member on an equal
basis with all other councillors (at present PC rep is non
voting).
Cycle strategy passed. Notice of KCC Highways staff changes -
PC briefing seminar soon.
Elections
5 PCs in Shepway not quorate - did problems with nomination papers contribute
to the situation?
Distribution of papers, information, and statutory notices was a problem for
most councils. Situation was
unclear - electronic or hard copies?
NB 1) since the meeting SDC have agreed that there was a problem and have
undertaken to hold a full
briefing next time.
NB 2) Ashford BC pay all election costs - no charge to PCs, except for
by-elections.
D G Stuart
Report on Stelling Minnis Managers meeting 13 April 2011
• Mike Hamilton was confirmed as a new Manager of Stelling Minnis Common.
• The Managers and Charlie Gooch were made aware of the ongoing works at the
land to the side of Bernadette Cottage – possible access and water main rights
across common may be required.
• A Wild Service tree donated by David Niven has been planted on the Minnis in
memory of Jo Niven.
• Charlie Gooch stated that some boundary problems had been sorted out and
others are still ongoing.
• Road edges – the owners and managers are not in favour of kerb stones being
installed.
• The cattle are to be returned to the east side of the Minnis in approximately
2 weeks.
• The sheep to be moved (they have been moved since the meeting).
• All nesting boxes had been cleaned/cleared out.
• Mowing to be the same as last year.
• FOSM to have a table at the next Parish Meeting.
A Day
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING held on 27TH APRIL 2011
Present: Cllrs Haffenden
(Chairman), Day, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr Carr, Clerk
Mr N Smith and 3 members of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. KCC Cllr Carey, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor)
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – None
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 2nd March were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr
Day. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Broadband public meeting, Lyminge, 9th March. Clerk and Cllr Day were
unwell and unable to attend. However Clerk had written to SDC outlining the
basic facts regarding Broadband within Stelling Minnis telephone exchange area.
The target date for submission for funding was brought forward to the end of
March leaving insufficient time to gather facts and prepare a business case.
Suggested that a project should be started to gather facts from both UH and SM
Parish Councils for the 01227 709xxx telephone area with regard to broadband
speeds and the requirement of users – needs a lead from SMPC as the telephone
exchange is within our council area. Cllr Stuart said that the view from the
KALC meeting he attended was that there would probably be funding made
available again next year. Council should be prepared in advance with a
proposal to allow a prompt application for funds as and when available. Agreed to defer starting the project to the May meeting.
4.2 Bossingham Village Hall – Clerk to respond to request for SMPC to
relinquish trusteeship of BVH. Cllr Haffenden was able to confirm that the
response had been received.
4.3 Clerk to seek confirmation from BVH & SMVH that residents from both
communities will benefit from local hall hire rates. Clerk reported that both
Hall committees had confirmed same charges apply to both communities.
4.3 Clerk to reply to Mr & Mrs Chatfield re parking of vans in Minnis Lane
& damage to road edges. Clerk confirmed that he had reported back to Mr
& Mrs Chatfield with the advice given by PC Trevor Moody.
4.4 Clerk to arrange meeting with KCC Highways re damage to road edges in
Minnis Lane + 2 other places. Meeting arranged, however KCC failed to turn up
(see item 9.2).
4.5 Clerk to reply to Mr & Mrs Barlow regarding erosion of verge at
junction of Minnis Lane and Curtis Lane. Clerk confirmed that he had reported
back to Mr and Mrs Barlow.
5 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING - None
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence (e = items e-mailed):
. 6.1.1 KCC library service computer access and Parish Councils. (e)
6.1.2 KCC Highways – Parish & Town Councils meeting deferred to July. (e)
6.1.3 Lyminge Parish Council re 558 bus route changing to double deck.
Discussed and agreed that Clerk would draft letter for Cllr Haffenden to
Stagecoach for information on the reason for the change – copy to KCC Cllr
Carey.
6.2 Items circulated for information (e= items e-mailed):
6.2.1 SDC: KCC Broadband funding (e)
6.2.2 Big Society Newsletter (e)
6.2.3 Code of Practice on Local Authority Publicity (e)
6.2.4 The Good Councillor’s guide (KALC)
6.2.5 Advice that Trevor Moody being moved on to another area in 3 weeks. (e)
Clerk to draft letter of thanks to PC Trevor Moody.
6.2.6 ACRK – RURAL NEWS issue 101 (e)
6.2.7 Parish News (KALC)
6.3 Items acted on:
6.3.1 Anti-social behaviour survey. Undertaken by Cllr
Haffenden.
6.3.2 Shepway waste recycling. Clerk attended and provided written report which
had been circulated to Cllrs.
6.3.2 'Kent Farmstead Guidance' and 'Kent Downs AONB Farmstead Guidance':
consultation draft PC. Undertaken by Cllr Haffenden.
7. PLANNING
7.1 To table late planning applications received for
consideration.
Y11/0313/SH – Chapel Farm, Bossingham Road. Had been circulated to Cllrs.
Discussed and agreed that response would be No objections 6:0. with additional
comments about the size of the extension and a section 106 agreement to ensure
that the annex always remains an integral part of the main building and can
never be sold off as a separate dwelling.
7.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by Planning Authority.
7.2.1 Y11/0193/SH – Rose & Crown PH. Approved 6:0 Approved by SDC with time
and material conditions.
7.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting.
7.3.1 Y10/1107/SH – Croucher Cottage, Minnis Lane. Erection
of a single storey rear extension. Approved with time and material
condition together with advice on likely restriction of further extensions
7.3.2` Y10/0841/SH – Yew Tree Farm, Bossingham Road. Erection
of a single storey side extension following demolition of the existing and
erection of a detached single storey garden store and a detached 3 bay garage
with a first floor within the roof space. Approved with time and
materials conditions plus time limit by when existing garden store/garage must
be demolished and materials removed from site.
7.4 Other planning matters:
7.4.1 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow View). Poly tunnels
erected on site – Lisette Patching (SDC Planning) advised 19/3/2011 – no
response received to date. Cllr Stuart reported that he had received
information that the site was being occupied by persons living in a caravan
even though there was not any running water or sanitation. Clerk to write to
Lisette Patching (SDC Planning) and also advise the parishioner who had spoken
to Cllr Stuart.
8. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
8.1 Clerk reported on number of Clubs and societies who had so far indicated
that they would attend. Agreed to purchase pin name tags (approx £9 – Proposed
Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed).
8.2 Cllr Haffenden proposed that the formal session comprise of Parish Council
Chairman’s' report and presentation of accounts plus any questions. Then close
and commence informal session with refreshments. All agreed. Cllr Day would
source refreshments.
9. HIGHWAYS
9.1 Double white lines on Stone Street. Cllr Haffenden
reported that since the last Council meeting he and Cllr Stuart had met with Mr
G Bineham of Kent Police who had explained why double white lines could not be
used but after discussion had agreed that other measures could be allowed
including the no overtaking signs which had already been agreed with KCC
Highways, ladder hatching and improvements to both visibility at the junction
and refreshing road markings. Since that meeting Ms Rixson of KCC Highways had
met with Mr G Bineham of Kent Police and had both agreed to do nothing other
than move a road survey box which was obstructing the visibility on exit from
Thorn Lane. Cllr Haffenden further reported that he had written to Kent Police
and KCC Highways registering a complaint about their actions and asking for an
explanation. KCC Cllr Carey and MP Damian Collins had been copied in. The MP
had responded and both Kent Police and KCC Highways had acknowledged receipt of
their respective letters.
9.2 Erosion of grass verges by traffic movement on Highways report back from
meeting. KCC Highways failed to turn up for meeting. New date set for 10 May.
10 JOINT SPORTS FACILITY. Cllr Haffenden reported that
a new committee had been formed and was progressing
the facility with new vigour. There should be representative on the committee
from SMPC.
11 JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS Cllr Haffenden said that he had met with the Chairman
of Upper Hardres Parish Council and agreed that there should be co-ordination
between the communities to ensure that there was not any clash of
events/timings and opportunities for joint celebrations were not overlooked. Mr
J Carr-Hurdwell said that Stelling Minnis Village Hall is hoping to help
organize a combined 2 village street party. The chairman proposed that the new
council consider appointing a councillor to liaise with UHPC to help
co-ordinate the event.
12. FINANCE
12.1 Approval of accounts for year ending 31 March 2011. Cllr Stuart (RFO)
presented the accounts reporting that £2.12 was held on behalf of the Museum
and Windmill trust because of an error by Santander Bank in closing both Parish
Council and the Trusts deposit accounts. Accounts were approved – proposed Cllr
Day, seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed – note that Cllr Stuart did not vote as
he is also RFO.
Cllr Haffenden then reported that whilst providing information for the accounts
and audit the Clerk found that the minutes of Nov 2009 (Minute 13.3) recorded
an increase of Clerks hours from 11 to 16 from 1/4/2010. Clerk had worked and
been paid for 18 hours during financial year 2010/11, which had been approved
at Council meetings. The chairman said that this was an oversight by both the
Clerk and SMPC. Cllr Haffenden proposed that the overpayment be rectified by
equal contributions from the Clerk and SMPC. He thanked the Clerk for
immediately offering to refund the overpayment in full, but felt the proposal
was more equitable. Cllr Haffenden said that as Clerks work load had increased
to beyond 18 hours a month that salary should be increased to 18 hours, but
Clerk only be paid for 17 hours for 1 year to recoup his part of the
overpayment. Proposed Cllr Speakman, Seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
12.2 Audit commission return
11.2.1 Confirmation that accounts approved by Council. Done
11.2.2 Annual governance statement was read and approved.
12.3 Accounts for payment
Clerks Salary to be deferred to May Meeting
ACRK £35)
SMVH Room Hire £65.
KALC membership £238.84
KALC – parish meeting posters (10) £4.50
KALC - Good Councillor guides (4) £4.00
CPRE membership £29
Replacement to speedwatch monitor tripod (1/3) - £22.00
All proposed Cllr Smyth, Seconded Cllr Day. All agreed – note that Cllr
Stuart did not vote as he is also RFO.
12.4 Requests for funding – None received
12.5 Asset register – Discussed and approved. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded
Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
12.6 Bank accounts – Cllr Stuart proposed that changes to the bank accounts be
deferred to the new Council in May. Agreed.
12.7 Inland Revenue – PAYE Cllr Stuart reported that following change of HMRC
rules, Parish Councils now have to register as employers and deduct income tax
at source – Update: SMPC has been registered as an Employer and Clerk
registered as Employee. No NI contribution due and tax code expected to be BR (Basic
Rate – straight 20% - to be deducted at source and paid quarterly by cheque to
HMRC) No further action required till end of year returns).
13. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
11th May AGM, 25th May APM.
Tentative dates to 2012 APM to be approved at AGM: 6th July, 7th September, 2nd
November, 4th January, 7th March, 2nd May (AGM) and 23 May (APM)
14. QUESTIONS
Councillor Vacancy. Clerk has put a short item in the May Mag asking
that interested persons write a short statement as to why the want to be a
Councillor and what they have to offer the Parish. A formal
notice on the notice board by the weekend. Closing date for applications
agreed as the end of May, so that the vacancy could be filled for the July
meeting.
Cllr Haffenden closed the meeting by thanking all Councillors and the Clerk for
their work during the life of the Council, which ends on 9th May 2011. Cllr
Haffenden was thanked for his work as Chairman.
Meeting closed at 9.49pm.
Signed by John Haffenden (Chairman)
11th May 2011
Click here
to view audited accounts for year ending 31 March 2011
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING held on 2ND MARCH 2011
Present: Cllrs Stuart (Chaired meeting), Day, Gifford, Haffenden, Smyth, and
Speakman. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), PC's Clark and Hardwick
and 3 members of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. KCC Cllr Carey, SDC Cllr Carr.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – Cllr Speakman agenda item 7.4.2 (personal
interest).
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 12th January were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded
Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Cllr Haffenden: Write, jointly with Cllr Lingwood (UHPC), to Simon Reed Re
joint sports facility (JSF). Cllr Haffenden reported that this was done, a
response was awaited. Cllr Haffenden also reported that the JSF would be
financed separately from Bossingham Village Hall with its own committee etc.
4.2 Clerk: Write to all Clubs and Societies re change of format of Annual
Parish Meeting. Clerk reported that this was done by e-mail.
4.3 Clerk: Write to Royal mail as per draft letter. Done, to
be discussed under item 10.2.
4.4 Clerk: Make formal request to SDC for precept to be paid. Clerk reported
done.
5 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING - None
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence. (e = items
e-mailed to Cllrs)
6.1.1 Clerk and Councils direct – March 2011
6.1.2 Rural news – Feb 2011. Chairman reminded Cllrs that future issues would
be sent electronically.
6.1.3 SDC Annual report
6.1.4 Broadband public meeting, Lyminge, 9th March (e) Clerk and Cllr Day to
attend.
6.1.5 Update on pot holes in Stelling Minnis from Ann Norton (KCC Highways).
All had now been attended to. Cllr Day reported that there were outstanding pot
holes on Stone Street, details to be given to Cllr Smyth outside meeting.
6.2 Items circulated for information (e= items e-mailed):
6.2.1 KALC agenda 21 Jan + Minutes of meeting 21 Oct.
6.2.2 SDC National & Local requirements for validation of planning
applications.
6.2.3 KALC Learning & development update (e)
6.2.4 KALC Learning & development planning module (12 March) (e)
6.2.5 ACRK – COBRA (Collection point for low energy light bulbs) (e)
6.2.6 KALC – Parish News
6.3 Items acted on:
6.3.1 Dorman Varietext vehicle activated signs. Clerk to obtain costs for
flashing 30mph sign with solar power cells.
6.3.2 Request from Newington Parish Council for observation re social housing.
Summary of observations forwarded to Newington PC.
6.4 Items for discussion:
6.4.1 Bossingham Village Hall (BVH) – request for SMPC to relinquish
Trusteeship. Cllr Stuart outlined the history of Stelling Minnis Parish Council
being co-trustee for BVH. Relinquishing that trusteeship would allow the BVH
more freedom to pursue charitable status. Now that Stelling Minnis Had its own
hall there was no longer a need to retain the co-trustee position. Proposed
Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Clerk
to formally respond the BVH Chairman’s request.
Hire charges were discussed and it was agreed that Clerk would write to both
Village Hall secretaries to confirm that hire charges applicable to the local
community were in both cases applied to both Stelling Minnis and Bossingham
communities.
6.4.2 QE2 Fields Challenge. Discussed and agreed that there were no suitable
locations within Stelling Minnis.
6.4.3 Forestry Commission Consultation. Now not an issue
following Government change of proposals.
7. PLANNING
7.1 To table late planning applications received for
consideration. None
7.2 To table planning applications dealt with since
last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
7.2.1 Croucher Cottage (Y10/1107/SH) – Erection of a single storey rear
extension. Voting - Approve 3: No objections 3.
7.2.2 Stelling Minnis CEP School (pre school building) SH/10/128/R4 & R7.
No comments made in respect of materials and landscaping proposals of planning
application SH/10/128. Approved by KCC.
7.2.3 Former Nursery, Lime Kiln Lane (Y10/1105/SH). Erection
of a replacement dwelling. Voting Object 2: No
objections 4.
7.2.4 Yew Tree Farm, Bossingham Road (Y10/0814/SH). Revised
plans. Voting: 5 No Objections (Cllr Haffenden was away.).
7.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting.
7.3.1 Y10/0704/SH Estovers: Approved with time & material conditions plus
restrictions relating to use of garage and flat roof.
7.4 Other planning matters:
7.4.1 Land 200 metres SE of Wheelbarrow Town Farm. SDC Lisette Patching
provided progress update - The Senior Planning Investigation Officer, Sid
Brown, has visited the site and confirmed that he had spoken to new Land Owner
who was enacting the Planning Permission granted, and the plant and machinery on
site is consistent with that development – Sid Brown will keep a watch on the
site.
7.4.2 Guidance on keeping horses. SDC Lisette Patching provided a guidance
document which was copied to Cllrs. Agreed should appear in Parish Magazine
when space was available.
8. REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received.
8.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr provided a
written report (Appendix A).
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report
(Appendix A). Cllr Stuart drew Cllrs attention to the revised estimate of
contested election cost of £983 and not £750 as was previously published by
SDC. Postal voting costs are now included (82 in SMPC). More information is
expected at the Parish & Town Councils meeting to be held 3 March.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart provided a written report (Appendix
A).
8.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart – noting to report as next meeting
was 3 March.
8.6 Kent Community Police. Pc Moody reported that
apart from the theft of the Village Name sign and sheep grazing sign, crime was
down 49.2% and farm thefts by 90% compared to a year ago. He had been asked to
comment on commercial vehicle parking in Minnis Lane; he said that drivers have
lawful authority to park on the highway, but parking on the Minnis was breaking
one of the bylaws. He said he would talk to the drivers of the 3 commercial
vehicles concerned and ask them to park more responsibly. However as long as
the vehicle was taxed and insured, was not causing an obstruction and had all
wheels on the road, they were within the rights to park there. Cllr Smyth asked
if a police presence could be arranged as speeding was becoming an issue again.
Agreed to keep Pc Moody apprised of any progress Council was able to make with
KCC regarding damage to road edges in Minnis Lane. Clerk to reply to Mrs &
Mrs Chatfield.
8.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that speed watch
will start again on 22 March.
8.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day - nothing to report as a
meeting had not been held.
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Smyth – nothing
to report as a meeting had not been held.
8.10 Bossingham Village Hall. Cllr
Day – nothing to report as a meeting had not been held.
8.11 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the AGM had recently
been held and accounts had been presented. The new extension flooring was now
laid. The next stages were to improve signage for the Mill and museum and
decide on the museum display, to which end a number of consultants were being considered.
Heritage lottery funding may be applied for. The mill and museum opens at
Easter on 24 April.
8.12 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth provided an update on the damaged
road sign at Split Lane. If the sign is to be replaced the Kent crest may be
offered to either Village Hall or Mill Museum.
8.13 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford had nothing to report.
8.14 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden had given details of progress under
item 4.1.
8.15 Other reports – None.
9. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
All groups and societies written to about proposal for
new format, and to be contacted again before end the March, to ascertain their
requirements (table, display panel etc). Name tags to be provided. Poster to be included in April & May Parish Mag and displayed
on notice board and shop. Cllr Day to source nibbles and wine/soft
drinks. Start formal meeting at 7.30 pm with hall being open from 7pm for clubs
and societies to prepare their displays.
10. HIGHWAYS
10.1 Double white lines on Stone Street. Cllr Stuart
reported the he and Cllr Haffenden had met with Geoff Bineham (Kent Police)
31/1/11 and agreed alternative proposals (ladder hatching, moving traffic
monitoring box, improving visibility splays, refreshing all road markings and
replacing missing cats eyes) all of which was requested of KCC Highways. Clerk
reported that no information on progress had been received from KCC highways.
10.2 Adverse weather conditions. Royal mail. Very
positive and will consider our suggestions on using 4x4 vehicle owners and
Stelling Minnis Stores as drop off/collection point for residents beyond the
scope of deliveries in such conditions.
10.3 Erosion of grass verges by traffic movement on Highways. Request for
Parish Council to do something received by Clerk from Mr & Mrs Barlow,
having just watched another large lorry slice another few inches off the grass
verge on the corner of Minnis Lane and Curtis Lane. Discussed and agreed that
Parish Council would arrange a meeting with KCC Highways to re-inforce the edge
of the highway in Minnis Lane from Rose & Crown to Orchard Villas
inclusive, by extending existing kerbing on both sides of the highway. Charles
Gooch and Minnis Managers to be keep informed on progress. Clerk to reply to Mr
& Mrs Barlow and arrange meeting with KCC Highways.
11. FINANCE
11.1 Update of accounts 2010/2011. Cllr Stuart presented latest accounts
position.
11.2 Accounts for payment
11.2.1 - March 2011
Councillors Stuart’s expenses £15.60
Clerks Salary for February and March £314.89
Clerks Expenses for February and March £13.77
UHPC – additional £24 in respect of 50% funding of costs incurred by Joint
Sports facility.
Payment proposed Cllr Day, Seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did
not vote as he is also RFO).
11.2.2 - April 2011 – agreed that these would be held over until April meeting.
11.3 Requests for funding - none
11.4 Asset register – completed. Seats to be insured.
Cllr Stuart to speak to audit commission regarding whether to declare them at
purchase or replacement values.
11.5 Alliance & Leicester (Santander) Bank accounts. Cllr Stuart outlined
the problems that had arisen as a result of Santander Bank mishandling the
deposit accounts of both Parish Council and Windmill/Museum. The solution was
to close the Parish Council deposit account and transfer all monies to the
current account and then open a new deposit account.
11.5.1 to confirm the transfer of the balance of our
deposit account to our current account. Proposed Cllr Day, Seconded Cllr
Speakman. All agreed.
11.5.2 to formally close the deposit account with
Santander. Proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Speakman.
All agreed.
11.5.3 to formally work with The Stelling Minnis
Windmill and Museum Trust to effect the closure of this deposit account.
Proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
11.5.4 Agree change of bankers or to remain with Santander. Cllr Stuart
suggested Co-op bank as an alternative, recommended by KALC. Details
being circulated to Cllrs for consideration at April meeting.
12 STANDING ORDERS AMENDMENT
To add new paragraph after existing paragraph 3b v (draft circulated) to
confirm arrangements to circulate planning applications for comment and
response to the planning authority where the Chairman does not call an
extraordinary meeting and time does not allow the application to be considered
at an ordinary meeting of the Parish Council. Proposed Cllr Smyth,
seconded Cllr Haffenden. All agreed.
13. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
27th April, 11th May AGM, 25th May APM.
14. QUESTIONS
14.1 Mr G Goodchild asked how does Parish Council circulate
information from Parish Council meeting to parishioners. Cllr Stuart said that
the minutes were displayed on the notice board and on the web site; relevant
extracts were included in the monthly report in the Parish Magazine; copies
were sent to local newspaper correspondents who included relevant extracts in
their columns.
14.2 Mrs S Carter reported to the Parish Council the two benches in memory of
George Poile had been purchased and these would be sites outside the windmill
and museum when open.
Meeting closed at 9.45pm.
Signed by John Haffenden (Chairman)
27 April 2011
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
REPORTS
Agenda item 8.2 SHEPWAY DISTRICT COUNCIL REPORT
The full Council met on Thursday evening 17th February to
debate and agree the Budget for 2011/2012.
David Monk, Cabinet Member for Finance, presented the Report and informed
Council that he was able, under extremely challenging circumstances, to present
a balanced budget for 2011/2012 with NO SERVICE CUTS.
We are going into 2011/2012 with an estimated unallocated £3.1 million in our
General Fund reserve and no overspend.
One example of how these savings were made last year was the combination of the
Customer Services and the Revenue and Benefits teams which has already realised
savings of £153.000, and in a seven year period is set to save in excess of
£3.3 million pounds whilst delivering an improved service to our residents.
Without doubt local government has been disproportionally hit with financial
cuts, this council suffering a 15.2% reduction in its rate support grant for
2011/12, the third highest in the country. We are however setting a District
rate with a 0% increase with aid of an expected grant from Westminster.
Even with the pressures on our budget we are still able to bring forward new
initiatives for the benefit of our residents. One of the main contributions to
both our savings and our improved services is the new Recycling and
Waste/Street Cleaning Contract negotiated by Shepway and Dover Districts together.
Not only does this contract give us savings of £700.000 per annum but it has
enabled is to invest around £450.000 into an enhanced street cleaning service,
and from May, providing a weekly "kitchen waste" collection both of
which came top in our surveys of what our residents wanted.
Some local authorities have had to let this service go in order to balance
their budgets.
Due to the combination of strong leadership at the top, the dedication and
professionalism of the Cabinet, Members, Senior Officers and all our staff we
have been able to develop community and financial strategies that eventually
resulting in us achieving the status of a GOOD Council and, at present,
financial stability.
We have not finished, for there are still challenges to be met in the future
both in terms of the Localism Bill and the continued pressure on costs. We have
made a provision of £874.000 to fund the investigation into alternate service
delivery, shared management and any other scheme that requires investment to unlock
future savings. This budget is one that the council should be proud of, and
therefore, was agreed at the Full Council meeting on Thursday by the members.
We know that there be "no let up" and we must continue to work hard
to maintain our "good" status.
Cllr Pam Carr
Cabinet Member for Members Services and Community Partnerships
Ward Member for Elham and Stelling Minnis
AGENDA ITEM 8.3 KALC – SHEPWAY AREA COMMITTEE – 15 JANUARY 2011
Report on KALC Executive January meeting
- Future of Local Audit. Legislation expected Non 2011 and as yet no guidance
available. May be an issue for Ares Committees later this
year. It is felt that costs could be higher than the present Audit
Commission fee.
- KALC AGM. Speakers were well received but as all are relatively new comers to
their posts (including Ian Learmonth) there was a suggestion that they are
invited to return to update us.
2 AGM motions rejected by NALC. Committee angry and
want letter to chairman.
- Extra meetings of Area Committees. Approval is needed because of the cost
implications
- PARISH NEWS: NOTE IT IS TO GO ELECTRONIC FROM APRIL. COUNCILLORS WILL NEED
PASSWORD TO GAIN ACCESS (or PCs to copy one for circulation)
- Finance A drop in income from training
- Training First course 12 March Planning Day. Later
Induction for new councillors.
In future training courses could be provided locally, say for a group of
councils at a time to suit.
- Localism Bill More details awaited e.g. what is a
too high increase in a precept? What will trigger a local referendum? Who will
pay?
- Standards Board abolition. More details awaited.
Misrepresenting a personal interest will become a criminal offence.
- Snow problems. Lack of contracts for farmers,
unsatisfactory gritting, poor hole filling. Sec &
Chairman to meet KCC.
Joint Transportation Board
No funds for new projects
Budget for potholes may be reduced
SDC – Parish and Town Councils Joint Committee
The main item at that meeting was lengthy discussions
on the proposed 4 Neighbourhood Forums. However since the meeting the idea as
presented has been rejected in this form by SDC's Constitutional Committee. A
report on the future options is expected at the next meeting
AOB
Cost of Elections. Members were up in arms at a recent letter from SDC which
quotes new costs for May elections. SDC's explanations were not accepted (e.g.
for SMPC increase to £983, which is 44% more than quoted in Sept, on an
increase in the electorate of 3.6%). Anger that this has come after most
councils have fixed their precept. Suggestions that we refuse to pay or at
least don't pay the extra until 2012/13.
Finally agreed that Chairman contacts SDC Chief Exec (since done)
Standards Committee. It was agreed that existing PC members to continue for 6
months until it is wound up.
Invitation for one rep to Buckingham Palace Garden Party.
Names drawn – Lyminge rep to go.
David Stuart 24 01 2011
AGENDA ITEM 8.4 SDC TOWN AND PARISH COUNCILS PLANNING USER GROUP 13th JANUARY
2011
LDF Update. It is expected that the examination of the Core Strategy will take
place in Autumn 2011. Final consultation dates will be
noted in the minutes
Localism Bill. Presentation at next meeting
Validation Criteria for Planning Applications. The formal check list is
being reviewed. The questions being asked are: is it still appropriate, can it
be simplified, in what way can the format be changed.
There will be a 6 week consultation period from 17thJan. PCs should have had a
letter asking for observations.
Application Fees for Planning. Change in legislation
will allow Planning Authorities to set their own fees. They must cover costs
but not make a profit. SDC working on this for probable publication on 4th
April and introduction by 1st Oct.
NOTE A councillor asked if PCs could also charge applicant for the cost of
their considerations (eg clerks time etc) or have a sum included in SDC's
costs. Reply - no, but PCs could lobby for permission.
Enforcement Staff problem – only 2 officers and one due to
retire. SDC depends on PCs advising them of problems. A new enforcement protocol
is to be drawn up. It is intended to reduce trivial items.
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOS) Work on preparing an order is carried out
privately before being served, in order to stop tree owner acting in
prematurely. After issue there are 28 days when anyone, including PCs, can make
representations. There is then a further 6 months in which the order can be
confirmed. If this has not taken place the order lapses. NOTE It is not clear how PCs find out about an order. LP agreed
to give the matter consideration. Also it is not clear what is
the procedure when it is KCC clearing trees on the side of roads.
Outline Planning Permission Once granted an application for renewal will be
agreed unless, in the intervening period circumstances
or planning rules have significantly changed.
Applications for properties on Parish Boundaries.
Neighbouring parishes can make submissions but only the parish which includes
the property can have a rep speak at Development Control Committee.
Call-in powers Any district councillor can call in a
planning application. There is no requirement for the councillor to be from, or
near to, the ward involved.
Electronic Planning Introducing the system has been delayed but there will be a
briefing when it is available. Lyminge PC have agreed to operate a pilot scheme
Next meeting June
David Stuart 17 January 2011
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING held on 12th January 2011
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman), Day, Gifford, Smyth, and Stuart. Also
present, SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), PC Clark, PCSO Wallace
and 1 member of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. Cllr Speakman, PC Moody.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – None.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 3rd November were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded
Cllr Day. All agreed.
4. CHAIRMANS’ ANOUNCEMENT RE CLLR BARBER
Cllr Haffenden reported that he had accepted the resignation of Cllr Barber.
She had been thanked for her dedication and contribution to Council. Because
the next election is within 6 months the vacancy will not be filled.
5. MATTERS ARISING
5.1 Obtain price to replace both notice boards for Asset register. Cllr Gifford
reported that the replacement costs for both notice boards were £200 and £2,000
respectively.
5.2 Clerk to obtain information on planning rules for equine use of land from
SDC. Clerk reported that Lisette Patching of SDC planning will provide a guide
to the rules.
5.3 Contact Poynters Coaches re KCC salting bus routes. Cllr Day reported that
she had contacted Mr Poynter and given him the KCC highways contact
information.
5.4 Write to KCC John Burr re response on double white lines on Stone Street
for meeting 9/11/2010. Clerk reported this was done. (Refer to agenda item
13.1).
6 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING - None
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 To table items of late correspondence. (e = items
e-mailed to Cllrs)
7.1.1 Clerk & Councils direct – January 2011.
7.1.2 Update from Office for Nuclear development (e)
7.1.3 SDC Minutes of development Control meeting 4 Jan 2011.
7.2 Items circulated for information (e= items e-mailed to Cllrs):
7.2.1 ACRK - Rural news.
7.2.2 ACRK - Oast to Coast.
7.2.3 ACRK – Annual summary 2009/10.
7.2.4 KCC – Annual performance.
7.2.5 Kent LINk news issue 5 - Winter 2010. (e)
7.2.6 SDC Development Control minutes 26 Oct. (e)
7.2.7 Kent fire & rescue “towards 2020”.
7.2.8 KCC Highways – salt bag trial. (e)
7.2.9 SDC Agenda for full Council meeting 24 Nov. (e)
7.2.10 ACRK – Big lottery announcement re community building projects. (e)
7.2.11 Came & Co – Insurers – advice on snow clearance. (e)
7.2.12 The journal of local planning. (e)
7.2.13 Information on vehicle activated signs.
7.2.14 SDC Development Control minutes 7 December. (e)
7.2.15 Oast to Coast – Winter 2010.
7.2.16 Rural news issue 98.
7.2.17 KALC – press release “Parish Councils to be freed from
archaic payment rules”.
7.2.18 KALC – legal briefing L10-10 – Responsibilities for
clearing snow & ice on highways.
7.2.19 KALC Parish News – December
7.2.20 Protect Kent – Localism Bill
7.2.21 SDC – Parish & District representations on the Standards committee.
(e)
7.2.22 SDC – Agenda for development Control Committee – 4 Jan. (e)
7.3 Items acted on:
7.3.1 KCC Highways survey. Survey completed by Cllrs Smyth & Stuart.
7.3.2 ACRK – adverse weather and its effect on communities. Views of Cllrs
(included 558/559 bus routes not salted despite promise that they would be –
school bus got stuck in the ice and school children firstly tried to push it
out then had to walk home from Hardres to Bossingham/Stelling Minnis. No post
during first week – yet milkman got through OK.) Collated by Clerk and passed
onto ACRK – also copied to KCC Highways - Ann Norton.
7.4 Items for discussion: None
8. PLANNING
8.1 Ongoing planning cases:
8.1.1 Anvil House. Anvil House (Y09/0939/SH) - annex. Planning consent given
now that the section 106 agreement has been signed. Time and materials
conditions apply. Discharged.
8.2 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None.
8.3 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by
Planning Authority.
8.3.1 Yew Tree Farm (Y10/0814/SH). Planning Officer requested clarification on
Councils views on the application. Sent – not supportive (2 object, 4 no
objection, 1 not voted – friend and neighbour of applicant). Comments
– too large and too tall. However would be supportive of the proposed
extension to the house, if the application were to be split.
8.3.2 Estovers, Curtis Lane (Y10/0704/SH). Revised plans for erection of an
extension to the east elevation with accommodation in the roof space together
with the erection of a garage to the north elevation and variation of condition
3 of planning application 78/0196/SH to allow use of the existing garage as
living accommodation. Voting Object 5: No comment 1 – No significant change
from original application.
8.3.3 The Old Orchard, Lime Kiln Lane, Petham (Y10/1105/SH). Erection
of a replacement dwelling. Voting Object 2: No
Objections 4.
8.3.4 Croucher Cottage, Minnis Lane (Y10/1107/SH). Erection
of a single storey rear extension. Voting Approve 3: No Objections 3.
8.4 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting.
8.4.1 Stelling Minnis CEP School (SH/10/TEMP/003 – KCC) - extension (for Pre
school) Approved with time and material conditions.
8.4.2 Horseshoe Cottage, Stone Street (Y10/0566/SH) Formation of sand School +
change of use of agricultural land for the keeping o f horses. Approved with
time, material and equestrian related conditions.
8.5 Other planning matters:
8.5.1 Land 200 metres SE of Wheelbarrow Town Farm. Concern expressed that
caravan on site is being used to live in. SDC Planning enforcement officer will
visit and report back. Clerk advised SDC that land was sold after planning
approval given – present owner or occupier may not be original applicant.
9. REPORTS
9.1 Kent County Council. No report received.
9.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr said that
she was pleased to see a police presence at the meeting. She then reported that
the present government were keen to see District and County Councils sharing
resources. To that end Shepway and Dover District Councils had agreed to a Head
of Paid Service (formerly known as Chief Executive) and a shared corporate
management team. Each Council will retain its own sovereignty – it is not a
merge of Councils. Neighbourhood forums, 4 for Shepway, are still being
considered however there were issues over funding yet to be resolved. Kent
Police were keen to join the forums as their current PACT meetings have not
been a success. Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) cease in 2012 and SDC are actively
engaging with GPs, Dover District Council and KCC to agree a way forward to
replace the PCTs. Broadband – SDC are looking at a scheme for Romney Marsh to
introduce high speed broadband.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart reported that next meeting is 20th
Jan.
9.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Next meeting 13th Jan. Cllr Stuart said that he
would raise the Land 200 metres SE of Wheelbarrow Town Farm at the next
meeting.
9.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuarts written report is at appendix A.
9.6 Kent Community Police PCSO Wallace reported on behalf of PC T Moody that
crime down within Parish by 53.3% and that he was not aware of any other
issues.
9.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. No report given.
9.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that the meeting of the Managers of
Stelling Minnis Common and the Stelling Minnis Charitable Trust was also the
AGM. A new manager, Mike Hamilton was appointed as representative of the
Historical Society. The intercom outside the Cottage, Wheelbarrow Town was
still ongoing. Information leaflets were still in planning. A memorial tree was
to be erected In memory of Joan Niven. The new residents guide would also be
made available to residents of Bossingham.
9.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall Cllr Smyth reported that risk assessments had
now been competed; all light bulbs are in the process of being changed for low
energy efficient ones; 3 fund raising events were planned for 2011 – 30 April:
A royal wedding themed supper, 14 July: a BQ to celebrate the 10th anniversary
of the opening of the hall, 12 November a dance evening. In 2012 a special
event is proposed to celebrate the Queens Diamond Jubilee – perhaps Parish
Council could be involved in organising a joint celebration to include a street
party. £600 was drawn down from funds just to cover some extra costs but this
is hopefully a "one-off " and not perceived
to be an on-going problem. Mr J Hurdwell gave some more details on the planned
events and the suggested Street Party for 2012 during the weekend of 3-6th June
which would entail closing Minnis Lane from Curtis Lane to the Rose &
Crown.
9.10 Bossingham Village Hall. Cllr Day reported that
next committee meeting was to be held next week. Mr D Barlow said that
Chalkfoot Theatre was coming again this year.
9.11 Stelling Minnis Windmill. No report given.
9.12 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth reported that she had brought pot
holes in Curtis lane to the attention of KCC Highways.
9.13 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford had nothing to report.
9.14 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden reported that a meeting had been
arranged between himself, Mr Lingwood (Chair of UHPC) and Simon Reed Chair of
the Joints Sports Committee. Mr Reed failed to turn up. The chairs of both
Parish Councils agreed that they were very disappointed that there had been
little progress on the project after 2 years; that there had been no progress
on the application for charitable status. They both felt that progress should
have been made in line with the planning permission received and asked for a
copy of that permission. It was suggested that Committee may have resigned, but
indications were that they would willingly carry on under a new Chairman. SMPC
agreed that Cllr Haffenden should, jointly with Cllr Lingwood from UHPC ask
Simon Reed to resign as Chairman of the Joint Sports Facility and a new
Chairman could be appointed from the committee so that the project could
progress.
9.15 KAPC AGM report by Cllr Stuart at Appendix A. Cllr Stuart drew attention
to NALC refusing to accept motions 1 and 4 as listed in his report.
10. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Confirmed that following advice from National
Association of local councils the Parish Council owns the hall and as such
should include in asset register but at nil value. Land registry entry amended
show Clerks address as contact for Parish Council. Hall management committee
have been given copies of NALC advice.
11. TIMETABLE FOR PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS 2011
Councillor’s attention was drawn to the timetable for the May local elections.
Any interested parishioners to be encouraged to seek nomination for election.
Cllr Haffenden said that he would include something in his reports for the
February and March Parish Magazines.
12. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
Agreed that the format would be two part meeting. First part the formalities of
accepting the annual accounts and receiving Chairman’s report. The second part to be an informal opportunity for Clubs and
Societies to increase awareness of what the have to offer to Parishioners.
Clerk to write to all Groups and Societies to advise
of the change of format.
13. HIGHWAYS
13.1 Double white lines on Stone Street
Cllr Haffenden welcomed PC Ian Clark to the meeting. He then outlined the
rationale behind Councils request for double white lines on Stone Street each
side of the junctions with Curtis and Thorn Lane. Realising
that the introduction of speed limits Council had a duty to its Parishioners to
push for road safety improvement at that junctions. The request for
double white lines followed a serious crash, which the air ambulance attended,
in which a vehicle overtaking a slow moving vehicle on Stone Street crashed
into a vehicle exiting Curtis Lane. At a meeting with KCC Highways the proposal
was supported by them and funding promised, subject to Kent Police approval,
which Council learnt was not given. Instead an alternative of road side signs
and a no overtaking zone was offered, with coloured tarmac markings. Hence personal letter to Chief Constable Learmonth asking him to
attend meeting today to explain decision. PC Ian Clark said that he had
been asked to attend to report the facts and report back on Councils views. He
said that Chapter 5 from the Traffic Signs Manual led to the decision of not
supporting the double white line scheme, and read that Chapter to Council. He
also referred to crash records over the last 3 years which indicated that there
had been 7 crashes, none fatal, at the junctions. Discussion ensued regarding
road safety, visibility, additional traffic when the former Stonegate Farmers
site is developed, how people ignore road side signs but white lines would be
more visible and a cheaper alternative. PC Clark said that either road side
signs or double white lines would be equally enforceable and both would require
evidence if a prosecution for non compliance were to be brought.
Cllr Haffenden drew the discussion to a close by saying the Kent Police had
shown complete contempt to SMPC by allowing a letter personally addressed to
the Chief Constable from an elected representative of the local community to be
passed down several times and by sending a PC to the meeting and not a senior officer.
He also said that SMPC would not let the matter drop and would continue to push
for double white lines as SMPC owed it to its parishioners to address their
safety concerns in respect of Stone Street. He also stressed that he felt that
the Parish got a very good service from its local police at PC level.
PC Clark said that he would report back to his senior management and would copy
that report to SMPC via the Clerk.
13.2 Adverse weather conditions.
Agreed that Clerk should send a letter to Royal Mail about non delivery and
offer suggestions that they could enter into discussions with, for example, the
shop and local 4x4 owners to assist should the adverse weather conditions
experience this winter be repeated next and subsequent years.
14. RISK ASSESMENT – ANNUAL REVIEW
Health and safety policy statement reviewed and agreed. Proposed Cllr Stuart, seconded Cllr Gifford. All agreed. Clerk to sign a
copy and keep for record.
15. FINANCE
15.1 Update of accounts 2010/2011. Cllr Stuart in his capacity as RFO presented
updated accounts.
15.2 Accounts for payment
Vice Chairman’s expenses: £40.30p
Finance Officers expenses: £22.47p
Clerk salary: £314.89p
Clerk expenses £8.24p
Joint sports facility 50% of cost to set project up £85.00
All proposed for payment by Cllr Day, seconded Cllr
Smyth. All agreed (Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is also RFO).
15.3 Requests for funding. None.
15.4 Asset register. Cllr Stuart presented draft asset
register. One outstanding issue to be resolved regarding benches which Council
purchased on behalf of residents who refunded costs to Council. There could be
insurance complications as no record exists of ownership of benches being
transferred to 3rd party even though they refunded the costs. Agreed that in future Council would not offer to purchase benches
on behalf of third parties.
15.5 Budget 2011/12 . Presented at November meeting,
no changes proposed.
15.6 Precept 2011/12. Agreed at £4200. Proposed Cllr Stuart (RFO). Seconded Cllr
Day. All agreed. Clerk to make formal request to SDC for precept to be
paid.
15.7 Alliance & Leicester (Santander) Bank accounts. Cllr Stuart outlined
problems with getting bank to change signatories to deposit account and
information was still being sent to Mrs Carter. Cllr Day reported that bank had
telephoned her and would be sending another new form to Clerk for completion
which should resolve problem.
16. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2nd March, 11th May AGM, 25th May APM.
17. QUESTIONS
There were no questions raised.
Meeting closed at 9.35pm.
Signed by David Stuart (Vice Chairman)
2 March 2011
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
REPORTS ON MEETINGS
KAPC AGM – 13 November 2010
The morning session was given over to talks by:
• Ian Learmonth, Chief Constable, Kent County Constabulary
• John Burr, Director, Kent Highway Services
• The Right Honourable Greg Clark MP, Minister for Decentralisation
All three have only been in post for a matter of months. All assured us that
they wanted to work closely with Parish Councils. All three went into some
detail of the problems they face in their particular fields in the next few
years due to financial constraints. We were assured that they would do their
best to maintain a high standard of service to the community.
It will be interesting in 12 months to read the minuted reports of their
addresses and see how things have turned out.
The afternoon was the formal business meeting. In addition to the usual
election of officers and executive committee and financial matters four motions
were debated.
The first was a proposal that a person should not serve on more than two tiers
of local government – a person should not serve on more than two Parish
Councils – and a Parish Councillor should not be employed elsewhere as a Parish
Clerk.
The second motion (from Shepway) urged NALC to lobby government to make
District Councils responsible for the cost of Parish Council by-elections and
to increase the cut off period in the last year from 6 to 12 months.
The third (from Ashford) was to petition NALC to make representation to
government that speed limits on rural roads should be reduced from 60 to 50
mph.
The fourth was to NALC to lobby for government to introduce legislation to
allow Parish Councillors to attend recognised training sessions without loss of
pay.
SDC and Parish Councils Joint Committee – 9 December 2010
The main item was consideration of proposals to establish 4 Neighbourhood
Forums. However since this meeting the draft proposal was discussed by SDC's
Constitutional Committee and was rejected.
David Stuart
05.01.2011
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING held on 3rd November 2010
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman), Day, Gifford, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart.
Also present, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), PCSO’s Wallace & Baber and 1
member of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. Cllr Barber (work commitments), KCC
Cllr Carey and SDC Cllr Carr.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – Cllr Haffenden declared a personal interest in
the planning applications for Yew Tree Farm (item 7.3.2). Cllr Speakman
declared a personal interest in Stelling Minnis CEP School (item 7.1.2).
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 15th September were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded
Cllr Day. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Obtain price to replace both notice boards for Asset register. Cllr Gifford
has this in hand.
4.2 Confirm support for Ashford Council’s proposal that all “C” class
and unclassified roads have a speed limit of 50mph. Clerk reported done and
copy circulated to Cllrs.
4.3 Shepway Cycling Plan, approach Mrs L Keeler to advise. Clerk reported that
he had approached Mrs Keeler who had suggested responses for the survey, which
was then completed. Copy circulated to Cllrs.
4.4 Planning application Stelling Minnis CEP school Clerk to Reply to KCC in
line with discussion. Clerk reported that this was done. Copy circulated to
Cllrs.
4.5 Village Hall – contact with Land Registry with regard to Ownership of the
hall. Cllr Stuart reported that this was done. Full report
back under agenda item 9.
4.6 Standing orders – produce copies for Councillors. Copies were handed out at
meeting. Cllr Barbers’ was being posted.
5 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
5.1 Request from SDC return on playing pitches. Nil return made by Clerk.
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence
6.1.1 KCC – Consultation draft – medium term plan to 2014/15. Consultations
open until 12/11/2010.
6.1.2 English Rural Housing annual report.
6.1.3 CPRE AGM and accounts.
6.1.4 Clerks and Councils direct (November)
6.1.5 2 x Police Survey (forwarded to Cllr Speakman)
6.1.6 KCC – Home based business survey
6.2 Items circulated for information:
6.2.1 SDC minutes of District and Parish Councils’ joint committee.
6.2.2 East Kent conference – The big society 4 Nov.
6.2.3 Shepway community chest.
6.2.4 SDC Full council minutes – meeting 21 July.
6.2.5 KCC MWDF core strategy issues consultation.
6.2.6 Kent Downs AONB unit – consultation on equine use of land.
6.2.7 KALC Parish News - date of May local elections confirmed.
6.2.8 Kent LINk bulletin 29.
6.2.9 Publicity code consultation.
6.2.10 SDC Full council minutes – meeting 29 September.
6.2.11 KALC Annual report for AGM.
6.2.12 Office for Nuclear Development – statement on energy
policy.
6.2.13 Kent LINk – response to NHS white paper on “equity and
excellence – liberating the NHS”.
6.2.14 Kent LINk Bulletin 30.
6.2.15 KCC Speed limit review on stone street.
6.3 Items acted on:
6.3.1 Letter from Pat Wood re Stone Street and Thorn Lane junction. Copies of
letter received and reply circulated to both Councillors and the 3 other
Parishes concerned. No further communication received.
6.3.2 KCC Public rights of way survey. Clerk to provide Cllr Haffenden with
more information.
6.3.2 Request from Carillion regarding Highways repair problems parishes face.
Clerk responded “Do the job properly first time and do it once”. Response from Carillion thanking for reply and confirming that many
other Parish Councils had responded along similar lines.
6.4 Items for discussion:
6.4.1 KALC AGM 13th November 2010. Cllr Stuart and Speakman
attending. Spaces for 2 additional Cllrs to attend, in
a non voting capacity.
6.4.2 Consultation on good practice for equine related land use in Kent Downs
AONB. On circulation. Discussed the
planning rules for equine use of land – Clerk to enquire of SDC for
information.
7. PLANNING
7.1 Ongoing planning cases:
7.1.1 Anvil House. No further information received from SDC. Has
not yet been approved.
7.1.2 Bossingham Pre school new building
KCC SH/10/128 – Stelling Minnis CEP School, section 73 application to vary
condition 2 of planning permission SH/09/781. Revised drawings with 35º
pitch roof, artificial slate tiles and enlarged windows (except in toilets).
Circulated as pdf file by e-mail 23/10/2010. Discussed and agreed that this was
broadly acceptable and Council would support the revised application. Clerk to
advise KCC.
7.2 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
None.
7.3 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by
Planning Authority.
7.3.1 Y10/0566/SH – Horseshoe Cottage, Stone Street. Amendment
of description of the proposed development. No other changes. (Circulated 26/9/2010). No response was required.
7.3.2 Y10/0814/SH – Yew Tree Cottage ground floor extension and garage with
garden store. Initial comments had been circulated. Discussed and agreed that
the proposed extension to the house was supported (5 approve, 1 no comment, 1
abstain). The proposed garage and garden store was considered too large and too
high. (2 object, 4 no objection, 1 abstain).
7.4 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting.
None.
7.5 New planning procedures for KCC applications. Circulated
24 October. Documentation validation process change.
Will have little or no impact on SMPC.
7.6 Other planning matters: None
8. REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council. No report given
8.2 Shepway District Council. Clerk read the following report from SDC Cllr
Carr - Our Council is in a secure and stable financial position and a recent
BBC/Experian survey showed that Shepway is the most resilient district in East
Kent,
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at
Appendix A. Cllr further reported that KALC will be running courses on planning
issues next year, which Cllrs might find of benefit. The impending closure of
the audit commission could cost small councils a lot as external audit would
then be handled by a commercial organisation. No details yet, but KALC were
investigating the possibility of negotiating a price on behalf of all Councils
in Kent. There will be staff changes at KALC as the both secretary and part
time clerical officer will both be leaving at Christmas. New parking facilities
and other parking restrictions have been approved for Westernhanger station.
New big society forums (4 in Shepway) are expected to have decision making and
mandatory powers. The forums will have representatives from Parish Councils,
Shepway District Council and KCC.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at
Appendix A.
8.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at
Appendix A
8.6 Kent Community Police. PCSO Wallace reported that all crime was down by
52.8%, vehicle crime down by 83.3%, burglary & other crime down by 83.3%
and anti-social behaviour down by 36.8%. She further reported that a call from
a local resident to Mrs Chatfield (NHW) had resulted in a vehicle being stopped
and its occupants reported to the local council for carrying scrap metal
without a waste carriers licence. She asked that residents keep oil tanks
locked because there have been thefts of heating oil in the area.
8.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that they were now
in the 2nd week in the current session. Cllr Day confirmed that speeding
reports continued to be sent to the police. There were now 2 new helpers and
possibly a 3rd. Cllr Speakman then reported on the mobile speed indicator
(Speed indicator device – SID). The cost of this would now be £4K with annual
running costs of £2K, shared between Stelling Minnis, Elham and Lyminge. This
was discussed and agreed that the cost was high in proportion to the funds
available from Councils budget. The promised grant from the community safety
unit seemed now to be in abeyance following national budget cuts.
8.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that information leaflets will be being
produced; that spraying was being trialled (off the Minnis) to control bracken
on the Minnis; Owners agent, Charles Gooch, had said that the Minnis looked
better than it had done for years – the plan was working.
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Smyth reminded
Cllrs about the next fund raising event.
8.10 Bossingham Village Hall. Mr Barlow reported that
the Chalkfoot theatre would be returning in March 2011.
8.11 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that takings were down a
bit this year compared to last however the cream teas still proved as popular
as ever. Work would continue, during the closed season, within the museum on
the floor and displays. Planting and landscaping helped with the overall
appearance of the mill.
8.12 Transport & Highways. Cllr Stuart reported back from the highways
seminar – The new highway director, John Burr, indicated 25-30% cuts in
highways spending, but there was more likely to be a yes/no decision on
proposals; 150 square meters of filling had been applied to pot holes in 2500
roads; new smaller vehicles would be introduced to repair small roads; bags of
salt to be made available to parish councils, the salt being able to be spread
with a fertiliser spreader; 180 farmers would be given new contracts for snow
clearance this month; KCC do give priority to salting bus routes – Cllr Day
agreed to contact Poynters Coaches to ensure that their routes are covered and
not just Stage Coach/ Arriva.
8.13 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford said that the next committee was in December.
Cllr Stuart asked if their grant request fro next year would be the same as
this – Cllr Gifford to report back.
8.14 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden reported that he had attended a
meeting with the JSF Committee and Chairman of Upper Hardres Parish Council, at
which it was agreed that the JSF committee would be in a better position to
secure funding if they became a charitable trust. Both Parish Councils would
set aside £250 from next year’s budget to set up the Charitable Trust. Planning
permission had been applied for and obtained. The new car park at Bossingham
Village Hall was part of that permission. Council will need a representative on
the new Charitable Trust. The JSF Committee had applied for a grant of £6K from
KCC Cllr Carey, Clerk to enquire if that grant had been allocated to the JSF or
Stelling Minnis Pre School new building.
9. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Stuart reported that he and Clerk had corresponded with NALC, Land
registry and Jenny Bradbury of ACRK. The advice given by NALC was that the hall
is owned by Parish Council and as such should be shown in the asset register,
but at nil value and a note added that it is managed on behalf of the Parish
Council by the hall management charitable trust. Parish Council are custodian
trustees. Change of Parish Councils address to that of Clerk is in hand with
the Land Registry.
10. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
Discussed and agreed that the general format for next years APM should be a
verbal report by Chairman, presentation and agreement of Parish Council
accounts, formal acceptance of minutes of previous years APM. Then as a
contiguous event clubs and societies should be invited to have stands/tables to
promote their activities and achievements. Refreshments to be
provided. To be further discussed at the January Parish Council meeting.
11 KCC HIGHWAYS PARISH MEETING – 9TH November
Cllr Stuart provided a summary of crashes on Stone Street from the report given
by KCC Cllr Carey. Speed limit review and the proposal for double white lines
were also discussed. Agreed that the main emphasis from
Parish Council needed to be the introduction of double white lines on Stone
Street each side of its junctions with Curtis Lane and Thorn Lane. Clerk
to send note to KCC John Burr that an early indication of his thoughts on the
double white lines would make for a meaningful discussion on 9/11.
12. FINANCE
Details of all account matters had previously been circulated to Cllrs.
12.1 Cllr Stuart presented an update of accounts 2010/2011.
12.2 Accounts for payment:-
Cllr Stuart expenses £24.60
Clerk salary £314.89
Clerk expenses £28.01
Proposed Cllr Day, Seconded Cllr Gifford. All agreed (Cllr Stuart did not vote
as he is finance officer).
12.3 Requests for funding
12.3.1 1st Bossingham Guides
12.3.2 Grant aid for Victim Support
Both considered and rejected. Clerk to advise.
12.4 Asset register Cllr Stuart raised the question of which value of assets
should be shown on the register – current value or insurance replacement value.
This was discussed and agreed that Cllr Stuart would seek advice from the
Insurers and then discuss with internal auditor David Barlow. Whether the
benches outside the shop + two on the Minnis should be shown on the asset
register was raised – they were bought by the Parish Council with funds raised
by 3rd parties. Agreed that notice board opposite the shop needed to be shown
at full replacement value and must be insured at that level.
12.5 Budget 2011/12 - Cllr Stuart presented a draft budget which was discussed.
If £250 for the Joint Sports Facility and there was a contested election in
2011, then the reserves would be insufficient to allow for another contested
election should there be a resignations of a Councillors in the 2011 -2015
term. It was agreed that thought should be given to increasing the precept over
last years figure by £100 (2.44%) to £4200. Support for CPRE and payment of
hall hire were discussed and agreed that these should continue.
12.6 Precept 2011/12 – Must be agreed in January meeting.
13. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
12th January, 2nd March, 11th May AGM, 25th May APM.
14. QUESTIONS
There were no questions raised.
Meeting closed at 9.55pm
Signed by John Haffenden. (Chairman)
12 January 2011 (Date)
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
REPORTS FOR MEETING 3 NOVEMBER 2010
Shepway District and Parish Councils' Joint Committee - 16 September 2010
Elections 2011 – Dates and Costs
May 5th 2011 is provisionally the date for District and Parish and Town
Councils. However there may also be a constitutional referendum and, in some
places, elections for mayors. If this is the case the present Constitutional
Act would cause the parish and town councils to be moved to 26th May 2011. It
is understood that the government might amend this and hold all elections on
May 5th which would make ballot papers complicated. (Clerks note – Date of the
District and Parish elections in 2011 plus referendum confirmed as 5th May).
If there is an election for SMPC, the cost to SMPC will be about £751.07 (based
on 2009/10 figures), but if it is uncontested it will be £51.03. If there were
to be a by-election for SMPC at another time, at present the cost would be
twice this, about £1502.14 (and not £1000 which was a 4 year old figure).
If the possibility of local referendums becomes law, in the form being
discussed – and it is by no means certain – the first such vote would not take
place until 2012. In the worst case the cost would be the by-election figure
(which will have risen by then). However ways in which the cost could be kept
down are being considered, e.g. a postal only ballot. Also, as yet, the
criteria for an “excessive precept” which might cause a vote have yet to be
defined. Parish Precepts and Election Costs. Councils
were advised to set aside double the cost of next May's election to allow for
any future by-election or local referendum. In the case of SM this would be 2x
£750. -
Before the May elections SDC may organise an event on “what is it like to be a
councillor” for anyone considering standing for election.
Neighbourhood Forums
This is an idea which is at a very early stage and the
discussion at this meeting was on first thoughts on how these bodies might
work. The idea is to have, say, four forums in Shepway – Folkestone, Hythe and
Sandgate, the Marsh, and the North Downs. The members – a total of, say, 9 or
10 might be the KCC member(s), some SDC members, and some parish councillors.
There would be two main powers. One could be the right to challenge SDC's
performance as it affected the area of a forum. Also there could be the
possibility that the forum might allocate finance for local projects (from the
Community Chest and other sources).
A paper will be produced as a discussion document.
If such a scheme were to be introduced a consequence could be that this Joint
Committee would be discontinued.
Meetings and the time for consultation and preparation
Some parish councils have complained that the
notification of meetings or time to respond to letters (as little as 5 days) is
inadequate. This is a particular problem for small councils which may only hold
meetings every two months. Also with only a part time clerk, who could be away,
it can be a few days before letters are drawn to councillors' attention.
SDC noted the problem and will try to provide more notice. A move to electronic
communication should have the effect of reducing the time taken for information
to reach parishes. It was suggested that two copies should be sent, one to the
clerk and one to the chairman, to allow for one of them being away.
Other Topics
Freeze on Council Tax, Retained Firemen, and The Effect of the Demise of SEEDA, will be in the minutes of the meeting
David Stuart - 17 September 2011
Shepway District and Parish Councils' Joint Committee – 16 September 2010
The minutes of this meeting have been circulated.
Attention is drawn to:
KALC Shepway Area Committee – 21 October 2010
Report from KALC Executive Committee.
PC Area meetings with Police. Concern was expressed
that the regular meetings have not been held recently and may have been
overtaken by Local Forums as a means of consultation. It was suggested that
Area Committees might consider inviting their local superintendent to a future
meeting.
KALC training course in March 2011 will be on Planning. It will probably be
repeated latter in the year for new councillors elected in May.
KALC AGM is on 13 November. There will be 3 speakers, the new Chief Constable,
a senior KCC Highways Officer and Greg Clark MP and Minister. There will be
three motions, all highly relevant and the new subs (a slight increase) to be
agreed.
Staff. The Secretary informed the meeting that he
would retire in June 2011 and a small working party was agreed to oversee the
process of appointing a replacement. A new part time Support Officer will be
appointed in place of a clerical assistant.
Audit Commission. Concern was expressed at the closure of the commission and
the possible effect on the cost of audits. Several alternatives to commercial
companies were suggested including NALC offering a service and KALC negotiating
to obtain preferential rates for all local councils in Kent.
Publicity. Attention was drawn to new restrictive
rules on publications by councils – details available.
NALC. There were complaints at some aspects of the
ways in which the organisation conducts its business and some policies are seen
as not always in the interest of local councils.
Big Lottery Fund. It will probably no longer be
available PCs who are urged to protest at the new draft ruling.
Report from SDC – PCs Joint Committee – see above.
Topics for next meeting – proposals for new consultative
committee structure (concern that PCs will lose access), effect of 2011/12
budget, and possible involvement in SDC scrutiny process. At some stage
future of Standards committee and new rules will need to be discussed (present
proposals would make failure to declare an interest a criminal offence)
Report from Shepway Joint Transportation Board
Westernhanger. There will be new parking and waiting restrictions on the
approach to the station. Road Repairs. 160,000 sq
metres of repairs have been carried out. Littlestones.
Traffic calming scheme not to go ahead.
D G Stuart – 26 October 2010
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING held on 15th September 2010
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman), Day, Gifford, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart.
Also present KCC Cllr Carey, SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor) and
5 members of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. Cllr Barber (work commitments)
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – Cllr Speakman declared a personal interest in
Stelling Minnis CEP School (agenda item 8.1.3).
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
Held on 7th July were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr
Speakman. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Joint sports facility – SMPC to receive minutes of meetings. Clerk reported
requested of Sports facility chairman. Cllr Haffenden will be attending a
meeting with the Chair of both Upper Hardres Parish Council and the Joint
Sports facility.
4.2 Pot holes – contact KCC Highways re lack of progress. Clerk reported that
this had been done.
4.3 Set up meeting re Village Hall. Clerk reported this had been done. (See
agenda item 10). 4.4 Cllr Gifford to seek price to replace notice boards for
asset register. In hand.
5 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
5.1 Pot Holes. Filled 13 August 2010.
5.2 NALC survey on membership. Responded that as a small council with limited
funds these do not run to membership of NALC or taking their publications. We
get our information from KALC.
5.3 Community Right to build. Responded to NALC that if a
referendum were required to be held then this would increase precept by 25% to
cover the £1000 costs. Suggested Councils themselves should be allowed
to decide to either hold referendum or follow traditional planning methodology.
6 PRE SCHOOL BUILDING
Headteacher, John Gray, and Chair of the Bossingham Pre School, Andrew
Fieldwick, gave a presentation on the reasons for the late change of design of
the Pre-school building from traditional to modular construction. The biggest
impact on the project had been the reduction of funding from a Sure Start grant
from £300K to £120K which meant that the Pre school team had to look at less
expensive alternatives without reduction of amenities. In order to keep within
available funds the proposed building would need to have a 15º pitch roof
rather than the more traditional 35.5º pitch, which would cost an additional
£11.35K. The design of the building was fully discussed and suggestions were
made by Councillors as to funding sources for the extra cost of providing the
more acceptable 35.5º pitch roof. KCCC Cllr Carey indicated that funding she
had earmarked for the Joint Sports Facility which had not been applied for
might be available for the Pre school upon
application. SDC Cllr Carr reported that SDC were supportive but did have a
couple of issues. KCC Cllr Carey said that this was a once in a lifetime
opportunity. Cllr Haffenden thanked John Gray and Andrew Fieldwick for their
presentation and said that the Parish Council would be as supportive as
possible.
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 To table items of late correspondence:
7.1.1 SDC minutes of Development Control meeting 24 August.
7.1.2 SDC minutes of Town and Parish Council User Group meeting 11 August.
7.1.3 Kent Voice protect Kent magazine.
7.1.4 Statement regarding transfer of private sewers and lateral drains to
statutory sewage companies.
7.1.5 KCC 2nd Rail summit 21st October.
7.1.6 SDC licensing policy for premises & clubs in regards sale and supply
of alcohol.
7.1.7 SDC Forward plan October to January.
7.1.8 KCC Highways Parish visits.
7.1.9 KCC Highways re trial of bagged salt.
7.2 Items circulated for information:
7.2.1 SDC Development Control Committee minutes 22 June.
7.2.2 Kent LINk notice of meeting 29 July.
7.2.3 Kent LINk bulletin 27.
7.2.4 Public rights of way – Annual report.
7.2.5 Kent LINk news issue 4 (Summer 2010).
7.2.6 Fieldwork magazine.
7.2.7 Kent Minerals and waste LDF meeting – 8th October.
7.2.8 KALC Parish News (August).
7.2.9 “No need for nuclear” leaflet.
7.2.10 Kent LINk annual report 2009/10.
7.2.11 SDC Forward Plan September to December.
7.2.12 ACRK Rural news.
7.2.13 ACRK AGM (15 September).
7.2.14 Invitation to Police reform consultation event 9th September.
7.2.15 Kent LINk bulletin (August 2010).
7.2.16 SDC Local development news 4.
7.2.17 SDC documentation to be by e-mail.
7.2.18 Kent LINk Bulletin 8A.
7.2.19 Clerk and Councils direct – September 2010.
7.2.20 KCC Environment and planning countryside access annual report.
7.2.21 Natural England – new guidance on assessing land for
designation as an AOB or National Park.
7.3 Items acted on:
7.3.1 Pot Holes.
7.3.2 NALC Survey
7.3.3 Community right to build – responded to NALC.
7.3.4 Highways – Parish & Town Council Seminar 29 October. Cllr Stuart will
attend.
7.4 Items for discussion:
7.4.1 Highways speed limit review. There were 2 reviews – Cllr Stuart reported
on progress on a letter to KCC by 7 Parish Councils & Parish Meetings
adjoining Stone Street for the speed limit to be reduced to 50mph. Letter to be
sent by KALC on behalf of the Parishes. Agreed to support the proposal by
Ashford District Council that the speed limit on all “C” class and non
classified roads to be reduced to 50mph.
7.4.2 KCC Shepway cycling plan consultation. Agreed to ask
Mrs L Keeler to suggest responses to the consultation questions. Clerk
to approach Mrs Keeler.
7.4.3 Tree Warden to replace Derry. On hold.
7.4.4 SDC All documentation to be by e-mail. Noted.
7.4.5 Communication with Cllrs. Discussed and agreed that all documentation
received electronically would be circulated to Cllrs in that way Proposed Cllr
Day, seconded Cllr Stuart. All agreed.
8. PLANNING
8.1 Ongoing planning cases:
8.1.1 Gordon House. Cllr Haffenden attended the appeal hearing. The Appeal was
upheld and permission given to use land as part of domestic property, subject
to conditions. Costs were not awarded. Case now closed.
8.1.2 Anvil House. Development Control hearing 13 July.
Cllr Stuart attended. SDC Approval to be given subject to a section 106
agreement on the annex always remaining part of the main property. SDC have
confirmed that the section 106 agreement has not yet been signed and therefore
planning permission has not yet been granted. Clerk confirmed that the section
106 agreement had not yet been signed.
8.1.3 KCC SH/10/128 – Stelling Minnis Primary School change of construction to
prefabricated structure. Voted 6:0 Object. (Cllr
Speakman declared an interest did not vote.) The presentation by John Gray and
Andrew Fieldwick was discussed and it was agreed that whilst there was a need
for the pre school building and what the Pre School offered for both the
community and the school, the building still needed to be in keeping with the
surrounding buildings. Agreed that Clerk should reply to KCC indicating Parish
Council’s support for the project and their preference for a 35.5º pitch roof
and some soft landscaping to soften the visual impact of the proposed building.
8.2 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None.
8.3 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by Planning Authority.
8.3.1 Y10/0298/SH – Erection of 2 restored common land gates opposite Courthope
Dane and corner of split lane/Bossingham Road. Voted 2
Approve, 5 no objections. Approval subject to
agreement by KCC Highways and owners of Stelling Minnis Common. SDC
approved with time and in accordance with drawings/photographs submitted.
8.3.2 Y10/0613/SH - Mount Ephraim, Wheelbarrow Town. Erection
of a conservatory to side extension. Voted 1 Approve: 6 No Objections.
SDC approved with time and material conditions.
8.3.3 Y10/0608/SH (Elmsted Parish) - Whiteoaks Farm (Formerly Stonegate
Farmers) Change of use of buildings from egg production unit to
storage/distribution use plus other works associated with vehicular access.
Approved 7:0 but subject to highest possible visibility splays being included
and transport survey being re-visited.
8.3.4 Y10/0704/SH – Estovers, Curtis Lane. Erection of an
extension to the west elevation with accommodation in the roof and a single
storey garage to the north elevation. Voted: Extra accommodation Object
4 No objection 3; Double garage Object 7:0 Objection mainly in that the double
garage is proposed to be built right up to the highway boundary and in front of
the building line; no access to rear entrance door for elderly relative and
existing extension on East side not shown on the plan. Advice sought from SDC
on building the garage in front of the building line and right up to the
highway boundary.
8.3.5 Y10/0566/SH – Horseshoe Cottage, Stone Street. Formation
of sand school. Voted No objections 7:0
8.4 To table decisions by Planning Authority on
applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
8.4.1 Y10/0458/SH – St Bernadettes Cottage, Harvest Lane. Erection
of detached garage. Approved with time and materials
conditions.
8.4.2 Y09/1059/SH – Elmsted Parish – Great Misling Farm, erection of 2 vertical
axis wind turbines. Approved with time, colour and
archaeological interest conditions.
8.4.3 T10/0511/SH – The Grange, Bossingham Road. Erection of
a single storey rear extension to link existing outbuilding to main house.
Approved with time and materials conditions.
8.6 Other planning matters. None
9. REPORTS
9.1 Kent County Council. KCC Cllr Carey reported that
although some £340M will be cut from the budget, next March, the effect on
Stelling Minnis should be minimal. KCC will prioritise services including those
for the elderly, vulnerable and highways. She referred to the speed limit
review and produced injury accident figures for Stone Street which showed that
over the last 3 years there had been 32 slight and 6 serious injuries with none
fatal. The cost of creating a 50mph speed limits was discussed.
As a grant application for the Joint Sports facility has not been received so
no money is likely to be available from either of hers’ of John Simmonds’
budgets. However £78K community chest money could be made available.
9.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported
that the Audit Commission in its present form will be scrapped, this means that
Councils will no longer have to endure very expensive Comprehensive Area
Assessments; however they must now ensure they continue to give value for money
for their residents and keep within their budgets. This will not be an easy
task as grants and funds from Westminster will inevitably be cut. The Leader
has also changed the portfolios of some Cabinet Members, including my own, and
we are looking at alternative ways to provide service delivery without cutting
any of our services. I have asked one of my colleagues yet again, to please
provide us with a replacement rubbish bin at the bus shelter in front of the
Rose and Crown.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Not held.
9.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Report by Cllr Stuart at appendix A.
9.5 Parish and Town Councils. Not held.
9.6 Police liaison and Speed watch. PC T Moody reported that it had been very
quiet with crime down by 62.5%, burglaries down by 33.3% (for the whole of the
Elham and Stelling Minnis Ward); the recent speedwatch session had revealed
speeding in excess of 50mph; the speedwatch reporting system was now working
well and reports received from the team were processed the next day and letters
sent to speeding motorists with high speeding resulting in a personal visit.
Mention was made that the 30mph speed limit signs in Curtis Lane were half
hidden on one side and completely hidden on the other side by hedges. Cllr
Speakman reported that he had received a police survey which he would process;
that speedwatch had started again; that due to new work commitments he may not
be able to keep on with speedwatch and a new lead Cllr may be required.
9.7 Minnis Managers. Report by Cllr Day at appendix A.
9.8 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Smyth reported the hall committee had
discussed hall cleaning, hire charges and fire officers report - the
assessments had been carried out and relevant paperwork was now filed in the
kitchen. One major change was that meetings will no longer be able to be held
in the upstairs room, which must only be used for storage. The next meeting
will be on 10 November.
9.9 Bossingham Village Hall. Cllr Day had nothing to
report.
9.10 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth has nothing new to report.
9.11 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford said that there was nothing to report.
9.12 Joint Sports Facility Cllr Gifford said that he had been unable to attend
the last meeting and so had nothing to report.
9.13 Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the fete had been very successful;
contributions had been received for a memorial bench to George Poile. Work to
the floor of the Museum would recommence after September.
10. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Stuart reported on the meeting he attended 13 September and gave Cllrs a
full written report. The original sale of the Methodist Chapel was to the
Parish Council and ownership of the hall should have been transferred to the
Village Hall Trust, with the Parish Council being custodian trustees. There were
still some outstanding issues which he and the Clerk would deal with outside
the meeting.
11. STANDING ORDERS
11.1 Standing orders & financial regulations review. Modified standing
orders were approved by Council proposed Cllr Stuart, seconded Cllr Speakman.
All agreed. Clerk will organise printing of copies for Cllrs.
12. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING Agreed to defer discussion on how to make this more
attractive to Parishioners until the next meeting.
13. FINANCE
13.1 Update of accounts 2010/2011 Updated statement of accounts was presented
to Cllrs. Cllr Stuart said that 50% of the audit commission charge, less vat,
would be refunded by the Windmill trust. Parish Council will reclaim VAT.
13.2 Accounts for payment:-
Vice Chairman’s expenses £23.40
Clerks expenses £30.30
Clerks Salary £314.89
Proposed Cllr Day seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote
because of his duties as finance officer.
13.3 Requests for funding – None.
13.4 Asset register - being compiled.
14. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2010 – 3rd November;
2011 – 12th January, 2nd March, 11th May AGM (if local elections held 5th May),
25th May APM.
15. QUESTIONS
None
Meeting closed at 9.47pm
Approved and signed (Chairman)
3 November 2010 (Date)
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
REPORTS FOR MEETING 15th September 2010
SDC Planning Users Group - 11th August 2010
The meeting was only confirmed the day before and as a consequence was poorly
attended.
1. Local Development Framework. There is no change to this part of the planning
process even though the Plan for the SE has been cancelled. SDC's LDF is on
schedule and is continuing as planned. Later this year there will be
consultations on strategic sites for major housing schemes. There is to be
special study on developments at Sellindge which is being funded by a
government grant. Whilst most attention at present is on major housing projects
in about 1 year attention will be given to smaller sites in smaller communities
which are needed to meet the balance of the target. Infrastructure services
were discussed and SDC's attention was drawn to the need to include broadband
as a key service.
2. SEEDA and the Regional Plan. With the closure of the Regional Body guidance
is still awaited from Government on a future overall planning process. There
are no longer any national housing targets but Local Authorities will still be
expected to have their own targets which they must be able to justify. National
guidance is expected on brownfield sites and housing density (note gardens can
no longer be treated as brownfield sites).
3. Annexes. I asked what constitutes an annex and to what extent should it be
dependant on the main house. I was told that normally an annex should be
integral with the house and ideally share some services. However there are many
variations and “case law” is common. Officers will look at each application and
try to meet the needs of applicants. SDC can require a legally binding
agreement about future use of an annex, and this practice is not uncommon.
4. AOB. There was a question about a house being built which differed from the
approved plans. It was believed that nothing could be done until the house was
finished. Officers replied that this was not true and would like to know
details so that an inspection could be arranged.
David Stuart
MINNIS MANAGERS 13th July 2010
The Secretary handed the correspondence to the
Managers regarding funding for pond wardens and it was agreed that the Managers
would pay 50% and FOSM 50%.
A grant has been obtained for a new hay turner, which is now in use.
Information leaflets which are to be freely available are going to be 50%
funded by the White Cliffs Project.
It was noted that small areas of the Minnis are still being troubled by bracken
and a discussion ensued about the best way to eradicate it.
Two liaisons between our pond warden and the primary school children has been a
great success and several newts were found and a grass snake.
Three dormice are in residence in July and will be checked again later in the
year.
The Minnis has been successfully mown and 300 bales of hay donated to a horse
charity.
Ann Day
STELLING MINNIS PARISH
COUNCIL
MINUTES of MEETING held on 7th JULY 2010
Present: Cllrs Stuart (Chairman), Barber, Day, Gifford, Smyth and Speakman. Also present SDC Cllr Carr.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. Cllr Haffenden (family commitments); KCC Cllr Carey
and Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor)
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - None.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING
3.1 held on 5th May were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded
Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
3.2 Held on 26th May were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded
Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 Draft reply for Cllr Haffenden in response to that received by Cllr
Speakman re Anvil House. Clerk reported completed.
4.2 Respond to KCC on new process for KCC planning Applications. Clerk reported
this had been done. Agenda item 7.5.
4.3 Provide information to Ann Norton on Pot Holes. Clerk and Cllr Smyth
reported done.
4.4 Complete review of Standing order and circulate. Clerk reported done.
Agenda item 10.
4.5 Reply to Kent County Agricultural Society request for funding. Clerk
reported done.
4.6 Contact Cllr Gifford and Clare Hamilton re Joint Sports Facility
representation and reports. Clerk reported that Cllr Gifford was now the
representative on the Sport Facility. Mrs Hamilton did not want to be involved
in reporting to SMPC. Discussed and agreed that Clerk should contact Chairman
of Sports Facility and be copied in on minutes of meeting, which could then be
circulated to Cllrs.
5 MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
5.1 Grass cutting at junction Curtis Lane & Stone Street. Clerk
reported that KCC had agreed to cut every 3 weeks during growing season again
this year.
5.2 Pot Holes. No progress on pot holes in Bossingham Road/Mill Lane. Clerk to raise with KCC again.
5.3 Highways Parish Portal feedback on fault
reporting. Clerk and Cllr Smyth reported on problems they had individually
found which had been reported to KCC.
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence (on
circulation).
6.1.1 SDC General Purposes Committee minutes 21 June 2010
6.1.2 Clerks & councils direct July 2010
6.1.3 SDC General Purposes Committee 12 July – cancelled
6.1.4 KCC Integrated Transport programme.
6.1.5 Oast to Coast – summer
6.1.6 KALC – Agenda for meeting 15 July and Minutes meeting 15 April
6.2 Items circulated for information:
6.2.1 SDC – Minutes of Shepway District & Parish Councils Joint Committee
6.2.2 SDC – Town & Parish Councils Planning Users Group
6.2.3 ACRK – new password for access to members’ area of web site
6.2.4 Age Concern – note of thanks for donation
6.2.5 KALC Parish News (May 2010)
6.2.6 Development Control Committee meeting 1st June Agenda + Minutes
meeting 11th May.
6.2.7 SDC Minutes of District and Parish Councils Joint Committee meeting 13
May 2010
6.2.8 District English Rural - confirmation of applicants for house for sale in
Brambleton Close
6.2.9 KCC Kent minerals ands waste development framework.
6.2.10 Kent Link Bulletin 25 available
6.2.11 SDC General purposes committee agenda 21 June.
6.2.12 Kent Link bulletin issue 26.
6.2.13 ACRK – July Council meeting advance notice.
6.3 Items acted on: None
6.4 Items for discussion:
6.4.1 Shepway toilets improvement study. Agreed to note the
study.
6.4.2 KCC Statement of community involvement in minerals and waste development
framework. No direct involvement, agreed to note the survey.
7. PLANNING
7.1 Ongoing planning cases:
7.1.1 Gordon House. Date of appeal hearing given as 4th/5th August. Cllr
Haffenden will attend on behalf of SMPC. SDC Cllr Carr outlined typical appeal
hearing procedure.
7.1.2 Anvil House. In response to a question, Keith Wilson had been sent a copy
of SMPC’s response to SDC on the revised planning application. Application going to Development Control Committee meeting 13th
July. Cllr Stuart will attend and speak on behalf of SMPC.
7.2 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
7.2.1 Y10/0298/SH – Erection of 2 refurbished commonland gates opposite
Courthope Dane and corner of split lane/Bossingham Road. On circulation 26 June
2010, with first responses being 2 Approve, subject to approval by KCC Highways
and Owners of Stelling Minnis Common. 5 No objections.
7.3 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by
Planning Authority.
7.3.1 Anvil House Y10/0176/SH – Anvil House, Pony Cart Lane. Amended
and additional plans. Voted 6:0 Object. 1 Cllr on holiday so not able to vote.
7.3.2 Y10/0458/SH – St Bernadette Cottage, Harvest Lane. Erection
of detached Garage following demolition of existing. Voted 3 Approve and
3 No objection. 1 Cllr on holiday so not able to vote.
Cllr Stuart declared an interest as near neighbour.
7.3.3 Y10/0511/SH – The Grange, Bossingham Road. Erection of
rear extension to link existing outbuilding to main house. Votes 6 Approve and 1 no objections. Cllr Stuart declared an
interest as neighbour; Cllr Gifford declared an interest as friend of the
applicant.
7.4 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting.
7.4.1 Y10/0029/SH – Doghouse Farm, Stone Street, Petham. Erection
of detached garage/store with Office/studio. Approved
with time, material and use only in conjunction with the existing dwelling
house conditions.
7.4.2 Y10/0274/SH – Mobile Home, The Organic Nursery,
Droveway, Stelling Minnis (Elham Parish). Approved with time,
landscaping, materials and removal of mobile homes conditions. Cllr Carr
gave some background information in that a lawful development certificate had
been granted for the mobile home to be used as a residence for 10 years.
Neither Elham DC nor SDC attended the Development Control Committee meeting,
yet both objected to the application.
7.5 New planning procedures for KCC applications. Responded to KCC twice, they
understand our concerns and will continue to provide paper copies of plans etc
where these are provided by the applicants. In practice we are talking about a
very infrequent situation. All correspondence copied to KALC. Discussed the merits and demerits of electronic visibility of the
drawings.
7.6 Other planning matters:
7.6.1 Caravan parked outside 2 Orchard Villas, Minnis Lane. Discussed
as being a matter for the Owners of Stelling Minnis Common. Note:
Caravan removed 7th March 2010.
8 REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council: No report received from KCC Cllr Carey,
8.2 Shepway District Council: SDC Cllr Carr reported that whilst SDC has to
make savings no services will be cut. There will be a public enquiry regarding
the Lyd Airport development. 6 additional benefit officers were now available
for home visits to help with enquiries and completion of application forms.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee: No meeting held since April.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group: No meeting held since April.
8.5 Parish and Town Councils: Cllr Stuart reported that minutes of meeting 13th
May had been circulated. Two items worthy of note were a request had been made
of SDC to give cost price for elections and the new domestic waste arrangements
which will come into force later this year. SDC Cllr Carr said may be a little
later than originally proposed as discussions with Dover DC and KCC still on
going.
8.6 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported 2 sessions had been
held recently. There had been no new members to the team despite publicity. He
had noticed that speeding had reduced since operating the scheme. There had
been a couple of problems with the equipment and SMPC may need to budget for
their share of ongoing maintenance and repairs.
8.7 Minnis Managers. No meeting held – next meeting 14th July.
8.8 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Written report from
Cllr Smyth appended. No questions raised.
8.9 Bossingham Village Hall. Nothing
to report.
8.10 Transport & Highways. Concern raised over
lack of progress on Pot Holes.
8.11 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford reported that CRB checks were
having to be carried out on all adult helpers.
8.12 Joint Sports Facility – Nothing to report.
9. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Discussed the recent article in “Parish and Councils
direct”. Established that SMPC are registered as owners at
the Land registry. Agreed need to progress and Cllrs Stuart, Haffenden
and Clerk will arrange to meet with ACRK’s Jenny Bradbury to resolve situation.
Accepted that there is a need to register the asset either
with SMPC or Village Hall Committee. The committee are trustees who
manage the hall on behalf of SMPC.
10. STANDING ORDERS
10.1 Standing orders & financial regulations review. Clerk reported that he
had received the circulated draft and would now include those in second draft
to be re-circulated for agreement and ratification at next meeting.
10.2 Summons to attend Parish Council meetings acceptable by e-mail. Discussed that where Cllrs have e-mail facilities then they would
accept the summons to attend meeting by e-mail. To be
included in the standing orders. Proposed Cllr Smyth,
seconded Cllr Barber. All agreed.
11 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING Cllrs were asked to think about ideas to regenerate
interest in the Annual Parish Meeting and forward to Clerk. Clerk will collate
ideas to be considered at next meeting
12. FINANCE
12.1 Update of accounts 2010/2011. Cllr Stuart gave an update of the accounts.
12.2 Accounts for payment:-
Audit commission fees 158.63
Clerks Salary (June & July) 307.62 )
Clerks Expenses 20.08 ) Total £327.70
Footpath Officer/BCTV Trees – donation 100.00
New Standing orders parts 1 & 2 handbook 25.00 (from reserves)
Payment proposed Cllr Speakman, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did
not vote because he is also finance officer.
12.3 Requests for funding – None.
12.4 Asset register Assets considered as 2 benches, 2 Notice boards, laptop PC and HP printer (both second hand and old),
together with the Village Hall if it is agreed that it is a SMPC asset. Cllr
Smyth said that the web site should also be registered as an asset. The value
of the benches can be obtained from commercial catalogues. The 2 notice boards
were bespoke and Cllr Gifford agreed to request a re-build cost from his
brother Scott. The value of the village hall would be nil.
12.5 SMVH Hall hire charges increase. Cllr Stuart
reported that the hire charges for the Village Hall meeting room would rise to
£8 per evening. Cllrs debated this and agreed to pay the increase.
13. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2010 – 1st September, 3rd November;
2011 – 12th January, 2nd March, 11th May AGM (if local elections held 5th May),
25th May APM.
14. QUESTIONS
None.
Meeting closed at 7.16pm
Signed by J Haffenden (Chairman)
15 September 2010 (Date)
APPENDIX A
Report :-- Stelling Minnis Village Hall Committee meeting 7th June 2010
The committee agreed that , as Parish Council representative , I will receive a
copy of the minutes without having to go to the meetings as my husband was
already attending and therefore I was usually aware of most events.
J. Hurdwell advised the committee that current best practise regarding the
ownership and registration of the Village Hall was that it should be entered
onto the Parish Council’s asset register on the basis of “no value and no
income“.
Ivor Champion reported that some redecoration- internal and external –would be
needed next year.
A review of cleaning tasks is taking place.
As a result of the Trustee Liabilty Insurance it was agreed to increase the
Hall hire charges by 15%. These will come into effect in September 2010.
D. McDine reported that the Windmill museum had found some Methodist
memorabillia and would like to display some of it in the Hall. It was agreed
that a small display case and notice could be installed in the foyer.
Due to low attendance the Methodist Fellowship meeting was being suspended.
Next fund raising event will be a “Family Barbeque “ on Saturday 10th July 2010
and the next meeting of the committee will be on 13th September 2010.
Many thanks to Maxine Blades for providing the minutes so
quickly.
Dagmar Smyth
MINUTES of MEETING held on 26th May 2010
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman), Gifford, Smyth Speakman and Stuart. Also
present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor).
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. Cllr Barber (work commitments);
Cllr Day (Holiday)
2. TO RECEIVE AND SIGN OFF RETURN TO AUDIT COMISSION
2.1 Approve account statement. Cllr Stuart confirmed that the accounts had been
agreed with internal auditor Mr D Barlow. The figure quotes for asset value was
based on those given in the insurance policy, which should be reviewed during
the coming year possibly on an “new for old”
replacement basis. Discussed the village hall as an asset.
The accounts were accepted by council, subject to the asset values being
recalculated for next year, proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Smyth.
All Agreed, with Cllr Stuart not voting as he was
finance officer.
2.2 Approve the annual governance statement. The statement was read by Cllr
Haffenden. Approved, proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Speakman. All Agreed, with Cllr Stuart not voting as he was finance
officer.
3. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2010 – 7th July, 1st September, 3rd November;
2011 – 12th January, 2nd March, 11th May AGM (if local elections held 5th May),
25th May APM.
4. QUESTIONS
None.
Meeting closed at 7.15 pm
Signed by D Stuart (Chairman)
7 July 2010 (Date)
MINUTES of ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING held on 5th May 2010
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman), Day, Smyth Speakman and Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor) and 1 Parishioner.
The meeting was chaired by Vice Chairman, Cllr Stuart for item 1.1.
1 ELECTION OF OFFICERS.
1.1 Chairman. Cllr Haffenden was elected Chairman, proposed Cllr Stuart and
seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. The declaration of acceptance of office was
signed.
1.2 Vice Chairman. Cllr Stuart was elected Vice Chairman, proposed Cllr
Haffenden and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
1.3 Internal Auditor. Mr D. Barlow agreed to continue as internal auditor.
Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
2. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE. KCC Cllr Carey, SDC Cllr Carr; Cllr
Barber (work commitments); Mrs C Carter (outgoing RFO);
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - None.
4. MINUTES OF MEETING held on 3rd March were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr
Stuart and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
5. MATTERS ARISING
5.1 To review template for standing orders for SMPC
use and circulate. Clerk reported that this was in hand.
5.2 To confirm to the Parish Council that income tax was paid on salary. Clerk
reported that he had confirmed this in writing to both Auditor and Chairman.
5.3 To write to Keith Barber. Clerk confirmed letter written, copy circulated.
5.4 To advise of new e-mail address. Clerk reported that Cllr Gifford had
advised that an e-mail address was not yet available.
6. MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
None, not covered elsewhere in the agenda.
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 To table items of late correspondence.
7.1.1 Response from Ann Norton regarding speaker from KCC Highways speed limit
review team for Annual Parish Meeting.
7.1.2 SDC Development Control Committee minutes 20 April.
7.1.3 KCC electronic communications on public path orders and definitive map
modifications.
7.1.4 Clerks and Councils direct – May 2010.
7.2 Items circulated for information:
7.2.1 Clerks & Councils Direct – March
7.2.2 KCC Highways – updates on winter damage pothole repairs
7.2.3 SDC Standards committee agenda meeting 25 March
7.2.4 Concern over local footpath
7.2.5 SDC Development Control committee 9 March & 30 March minutes
7.2.6 Kent Link bulletins 23 & 24 + AGM 26 May
7.2.7 ACRK Parish News 25 March
7.2.8 Reply from Charles Gooch re parking on the Minnis
7.2.9 KCC Mobile library single staffing implementation
7.2.10 KALC Shepway area committee agenda and meeting notes
7.2.11 Voluntary Sector training
7.2.12 SDC minutes of Council 18 Feb
7.2.13 Protect Kent AGM 17 June
7.2.14 English Rural – sale of house in Brambleton Close
7.2.15 KCC Climate change conference
7.3 Items acted on:
7.3.1 Item 7.2.4 was passed onto footpath officer.
7.3.2 Item 7.2.11 – Passed onto Youth Challenge group.
7.4 Items for discussion: None
8. PLANNING
8.1 Ongoing planning cases:
8.1.1 Gordon House. Letter sent to planning inspectorate incorporating Cllrs
views in respect of the appeal.
8.2 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None.
8.3 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by
Planning Authority.
8.3.1 Y10/0176/SH – Anvil House, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of
attached annex. Object 7:0. Subsequent correspondence from Keith Wilson
received by Cllr Speakman, which had been circulated, was discussed. Clerk to
draft reply for Cllr Haffenden.
8.3.2 Y10/0199/SH – Curtis End, Curtis Lane. Erection of 2
storey rear extension and dormer window (resubmission of Y09/0989/SH) - 5
Approve, 2 No objections. SDC Approval given with time and material
conditions.
8.3.3 Y10/0274/SH – Mobile Home, The Organic Nursery,
Droveway, Stelling Minnis (Elham Parish). Unanimous
objection. Response to SDC discussed and agreed.
8.4 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior
to last meeting. None
8.5 New KCC planning procedures for KCC applications. Discussed
the implications for small Parish Councils and Cllrs without internet access.
Clerk and Cllr Stuart to respond to KCC.
9. REPORTS
9.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC
Cllr Carey.
9.2 Shepway District Council. No report received from
SDC Cllr Carr.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Written report from Cllr Stuart at appendix A.
9.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Written report from Cllr Stuart at Appendix A.
Item on planning applications and suggestion that Parish Councils should offer
suggestions on modifications required to make an application acceptable rather
than give a rejection was discussed. Agreed that this would not be applicable
in many instances and that the planning officers may misinterpret the Parish
Councils views as to why an application was not acceptable. More clarification
needed before suggestion could be adopted.
9.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
9.6 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that speed watch
would start next week for 2 weeks. No progress yet on the mobile speed sign, discussions are in hand between KVV and SDC on
responsibilities.
9.7 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that the cattle had returned to the
Minnis and that progress was being made on the removal of both caravan from
Orchard Villas and the remote gate operating post from the property in
Wheelbarrow Town.
9.8 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Smyth reported
on the successful fund raising event.
9.9 Bossingham Village Hall. Mr Barlow reported that
the management committee required 2 new members.
9.10 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth reported that despite KCC’s letters,
pot holes were not being filled within the Parish. The standard of repair was
discussed. Agreed that Cllr Smyth would send details to Clerk
who would write to Ann Norton. Council felt that the reasons given as to
why a member of the Speed limit review team was not available to able to speak
at the Annual Parish Meeting was disappointing.
9.11 Youth Club. No report given.
9.12 Other. None.
10. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Clerk reported that Johnathan Hurdwell was still waiting for written
confirmation from Charities Commission confirming SMPC would not have to pay
Auditors fees on the Village Hall as an asset. He then said that in the latest
issue of “Clerks and Councils direct” (on circulation) suggestions were made
that Parish Councils should include the village hall on its asset register,
with nil value, with a note of the charity registration number, specifying the
date of the governing document and stating that it is in the hands of a
separate committee.
Cllr Smyth reported on the recent fund raising event.
11. SPORTS FACILITY AT BOSSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Speakman said that he would be unable to continue as the 2nd Parish
Council representative, because of other commitments.
12. WINDMILL AND MUSEUM
Cllr Speakman reported the building work on the museum extension had been
delayed by weather but should be completed by the end of May. The museum and
windmill had opened at Easter and cream teas were being served. Cllr Day said
that additional guides and helpers were still required. No
longer to be a regular agenda item.
13. STANDING ORDERS
13.1 Standing orders & financial regulations review. Clerk reported that
the draft reviewed version will be circulated shortly for comment.
14. FINANCE
14.1 Statement of accounts, Parish Council and Windmill, 2009/2010. Accounts
for both parish council and windmill/museum (Click here to view) were presented for approval.
Parish Council accounts proposed Cllr Speakman, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
Windmill accounts were proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Both
sets of accounts were duly approved. The windmill/museum is now a separate body
and accounts will no longer be presented to Parish Council for approval. Cllr
Haffenden thanked all involved in setting up the Stelling Minnis Windmill &
Museum Trust.
14.2 Audit Commission annual return for 2009/2010. Cllr Stuart reported that
there was still some work to undertaken to enable its
return by 3rd June. Agreed to hold a short Parish Council
meeting on 26th May immediately prior to the Annual Parish Meeting to sign off
the completed return.
14.3 Update of accounts 2010/2011. Cllr Stuart presented an updated statement
of account.
14.4 Accounts for payment, details had been circulated prior to meeting:-
Membership of KALC
226.99
Membership
CPRE
29.00
Council
insurance
317.29
Village Hall
hire
59.00
Clerk
Salary
307.62
Clerk
Expenses
14.52
Councillors
Expenses
15.60
Donation – Stelling Churchyard
upkeep
200.00
Donation – Age
concern
100.00
Donation – Youth Club hall hire
(made payable to Bossingham Village
Hall) 300.00
Membership of ACRK (Note this was
approved at January
meeting)
35.00
Total
1605.02
Proposed Cllr Smyth, Seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed (note that Cllr Stuart,
in his capacity as finance officer did not vote).
14.5 Requests for funding. Clerk reported that a request for funding had been
received from Kent County Agriculture Society in respect of education events
for schools. Discussed and agreed not to fund directly. Also discussed and
agreed not to make a donation to Stelling Minnis Primary School in respect of
the events, however if they were to make a request to fund transport costs to
one of the events this would be treated sympathetically.
14.6 Account signatories. Cllrs Barber and Stuart to cease to
be signatories, Cllrs Haffenden and Gifford to be added. Cllr Stuart was
dealing.
15 APPOINTMENT OF REPRESENTATIVES
The following representatives were agreed:-
15.1 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Reduce to 1 representative. Cllr Stuart
15.2 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart
15.3 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman
15.4 Minnis Managers – 2 reps, Council observer and trustee.
Observer Cllr Day
Trustee Cllr Haffenden
15.5 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Smyth
15.6 Bossingham Village Hall. Cllr Day
15.7 Stelling Minnis Windmill trustee Cllr Speakman
15.8 Transport & Highways – 2 reps. Cllrs Smyth & Stuart
15.9 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford
15.10 Joint Sports Facility. Discussed and agreed that Cllr Gifford
would be asked to join the committee as Parish Council representative. Mrs C Hamilton to be invited to give a short report to Parish
Council for its meetings. Clerk to contact both.
16. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
16.2 Annual Parish Meeting 26th May
16.2 2010 – 7th July, 1st September, 3rd November;
2011 – 12th January, 2nd March, 11th May AGM (if local elections held 5th May),
25th May APM.
17. QUESTIONS
None.
Meeting closed at 9.05pm
Signed by D Stuart (Chairman)
7 July 2010 (Date)
APPENDIX A
REPORTS FOR MARCH 2010 MEETING
SDC -Planning Users Group 14 April 2010
1) LDF first interim document planned for mid-summer. There will be
consultations locally but probably only on key sites.
2) Staff - Roy Little has left. Val Knight is retiring
this month.
3) Legislation changes. A lot of detailed changes generally
relaxing regulations. A handout is available.
4) E-Consultation New software is to be introduced on the website. It should be
more user friendly and easier to track an application.
5) PCs are to be encouraged to comment on applications on line. Also it is suggested
that when PCs have comments they might be worded “approve subject to the
following changes.....” rather than “reject because......”.
It is then possible that the case officer will contact the PC to try to resolve
the differences. A refusal means that the application will probably go to
committee.
6) Roadside Advertising – not allowed, zero tolerance (KCC Highways). Local
events allowed with permission of landowner, 0.6sq.m, 28 days before 14 days
afterwards. Fly posting definitely not allowed. Guidance notes available –
suggest village halls include with letting conditions.
7) Major planning applications likely to affect many parishes. Consideration
will be given to include some form of indication in weekly list (e.g.
Supermarkets)
KALC Shepway Area Committee 15 April 2010
Matters from KALC Executive
Finance – a modest surplus for 2009/10 hence no change in subscriptions
AGM – Speakers Greg Clark, MP for Tunbridge Wells plus 1 or 2 others, maybe new
Police Chief
motions wanted FOR THE AGM
o NALC – still problems with dissatisfied counties
o KCC Highways chief Nick Chard not willing to improve PC representation on
Joint Transportation Board
o A proposal from one area that we should press for limitations on the number
of councils on which a person can serve – a possible motion for the AGM
o KALC have produced new schemes for training councillors. Clerks etc. in a
modular form which could be offered at different times and not just one day
courses (details available)
SDC Joint Committee
Report on this meeting was tabled at SMPC meeting in March
Shepway Joint Transportation Board
No items for SM except proposed restrictions on parking at Westernhanger.
Items for next SDC Joint Committee
Litter and rubbish left after refuse collections
Caravan site at Palm Tree Elham
Folkestone precinct
Scrutiny Committee to look at SDC liaison with PCs
SDC handling of Lydd Airport planning application. Some New Romney councillors
are of the opinion that the meeting was not properly conducted and should be
invalid.
D G Stuart
24.04.2010
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Approved MINUTES of MEETING held on 3rd March 2010
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman), Barber, Gifford, Smyth and Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Mrs C Cooper
(Windmill) and 3 Parishioners
1. APOLOGIES KCC Cllr Carey, SDC Cllr Carr, Cllr
Speakman (work commitments), Mrs S Carter (RFO) and Mr J Hurdwell (SM Village
Hall).
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST None.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING held on 13th January were agreed and signed, after 1
amendment (item 11 – the £15K allocated by KCC Cllrs was a total figure and not
each). Proposed Cllr Stuart and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
It was agreed that draft minutes would not be made public until all Cllrs had
been given the opportunity preview them. It was also agreed that in the reports
items differentiation was made between no meeting held and nothing to report.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 To seek formal response from the Minnis Managers
on the question of a preferred parking place on the Minnis. Cllrs Haffenden
reported the owners had no plans to create a parking place on the Minnis and a
letter confirming that was being sent.
4.2 Village Appraisal action Plan – Reviewed by Councillors and webpage
updated.
4.3 Changes to standing orders pending updated template from KALC. Clerk
reported that the new template was now available and revised Standing orders
would be distributed to Cllrs for comment.
4.4 Advise air ambulance that request for funding rejected – Done
4.5 Alternative Parish Council meeting dates: Discussed responses from KCC Cllr
Carey and SDC Cllr Carr. Agreed to leave as is.
Cllr Barber informed the council she would be moving in the near future as such
felt she needed to resign from the sub committees .It was agreed by the council
she would remain on the council for the time being. No move date was yet known.
Cllr Haffenden thanked Cllr Barber for all the work that she had put in on
Council committees.
5. MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
None, not covered elsewhere in the agenda.
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence (all on circulation)
6.1.1 Policing matters – issue 4 (Feb 2010).
6.1.2 KCC Highways & Environment flood risk information.
6.1.3 SDC – District & Parish Councils Joint Committee notes of meeting
held 25 Feb.
6.1.4 SDC agenda for Development Control Committee meeting 9 March and minutes
of meeting 16 Feb.
6.2 Items circulated for information
6.2.1 KALC Minutes of meeting 15 October.
6.2.2 KCC – Annual Performance Report.
6.2.3 SDC – Minutes of development Control Committee 5 Jan 2010.
6.2.4 Canterbury City Council – Local Development Framework.
6.2.5 SDC – New planning guidance notes on amendments to approved plans and
extensions to time limits.
6.2.6 SDC Minutes of Shepway Community Partnership – 26 Jan 2010.
6.2.7 SDC Development Control Committee Minutes.
6.2.8 Action with Communities (Rural Kent) Jan 2010.
6.2.9 KALC Parish News (February).
6.2.10 SDC – Minutes of meeting of Council 20 Jan 2010.
6.2.11 Society of Local Councils – Employment Matters Course.
6.3 Items acted on
6.3.1 Dungeness nuclear power station – submission to Department of Energy on
National Policy Statement regarding Dungeness’s exclusion. (Circulated).
6.4 Items for discussion
None
7. PLANNING
7.1 Ongoing planning cases
7.1.1 Gordon House. It was noted that a new planning application had been
submitted for change of use of the land.
7.2 Late planning applications – None.
7.3 Applications dealt with since last meeting and planning authority
decisions.
7.3.1 Y10/0058/SH – Gordon House, Certificate of lawfulness – resubmission of
application No Y09/0896/SH. Replied on behalf of SMPC – no new information to
add.
7.3.2 Y10/0029/SH – Dog House Farm – Erection of new garage with room above.
Voting 7:0 no objection with observations regarding a condition be imposed
preventing its use for residential accommodation/holiday let; trees providing
screening detailed in the access statement are proposed to be removed; that no
water or toilet facilities are shown for the garages or home office/studio.
7.3.3 KCC SH/10/TEMP/0003 – Stelling Minnis Primary School – Pre School
building. Changes to design and re-siting of building away
from existing soak away. (Not circulated as there were not any
significant changes).
7.4 Decisions by Planning Authority (not already included in 7.3)
7.4.1 Y09/0978/SH - Stoneacre Farm Stone Street Stelling Minnis Canterbury
Kent. Change of use of land for the keeping of horses and erection of a block
of four stables, tack room and store.. Approved with
time, material and horse related conditions.
7.4.2 Y09/0896/SH – Gordon House, Certificate of Lawfulness – Refused.
8. REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council. Written report at Appendix A.
8.2 Shepway District Council. No report received.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Written report at Appendix A.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group – no meeting held.
8.5 Police liaison and Speedwatch. Written report at Appendix A
8.6 Minnis Managers. Written report at Appendix A
8.7 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. – No meeting held.
8.8 Bossingham Village Hall. Annual
General Meeting 15 April at 7.30pm.
8.9 Transport & Highways. Cllrs Smyth reported that pot holes continue to
be registered with the Highways team. Agreed that a speaker
from KCC team on the speed limit review be invited to the Annual Parish Meeting
(Clerk to arrange).
8.10 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford had nothing to report.
8.11 Shepway and Parish Councils Joint Committee. Written report at Appendix A.
9. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Clerk reported that Mr Hurdwell was still awaiting confirmation from Charities
Commission in respect of there being no External Audit charges if the Hall was
registered with the Parish Council.
10. SPORTS FACILITY AT BOSSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Barber reported that the questionnaires had been distributed. 120
households in Stelling Minnis and Bossingham had responded together with
individual responses from clubs. Initial interpretations of the results were
seen as favourable. A full analysis of the questionnaires was being undertaken.
2 companies had been asked to redesign the area to give ideas and costs, as a
basis for grant/fund applications. The play builder application had been rejected, however a number of other funding sources were
being pursued. The next meeting of the committee was 16 March. A fund raising
Hall to Hall run was being organised for 21 March with receipts being split 50%
to Sports Relief and 50% to the joint sports facility.
11. WINDMILL AND MUSEUM
Cllr Speakman sent the following report:
Stelling Minnis Windmill and Museum Trust:
• Following consultations with the Parish Council and subsequent amendments
approved by Furley Page (Solicitors), the charitable Trust Deed was signed by
Trustees on 26 January and deposited with Furley Page - they have forwarded a
signed copy to KCC and one for the Trustees' records. The Stelling Minnis
Windmill and Museum Trust is now fully up and running.
• The Trustees & Management teams met on 15 February to prepare for the
2010 season. Cara Cooper is Chairman, John Leach is Vice Chairman and Shelagh
Carter is Secretary & Treasurer. David Barlow has
kindly agreed to be the Trust's Auditor. (Shelagh will forward a copy of the
Minutes as soon as these have been prepared and approved)
Land Transfer
• This relates to the parcel of land kindly donated by
Ivor Champion to enable the building of the museum extension. Unfortunately,
the transfer deed got held up by KCC legal dept causing more delay but was
finally signed by Ivor Champion just hours before he flew out of the country on
holiday 2 weeks ago.
Access Licence
• This is the licence granted by KCC to carry out
building works and this could not be issued until the Charitable Trust Deed was
in place. After the usual delays involving consultations with every conceivable
department in KCC that had some interest however remote, this has now been
issued and signed by all parties.
Museum Extension
• After some further delays with SDC over Building Regulations, Kevin Haffner
began work on the Grand Design on Monday, 15 February
• SDC Building Control Officer has inspected foundations - all OK
• weather is hampering things slightly but progress is being made
• The shell of the building should be completed before opening at Easter (4
April) so that the fencing can be removed and site reinstated. The interior may
be bare, but safe for visitors to enter.
Windmill
There was an attempted break-in the Friday afternoon before half-term - the
culprits tried to gain entry via the door on the balcony facing Mill Lane They
removed two tongued-and-grooved boards in the door but then found this was
braced so still couldn't get inside - they then left. They did not try to get
into the Museum fortunately. Barry Cox and George Poile repaired the doors and
the Police came on the Saturday morning – unlikely that they will be able to
apprehend the culprits but will visit periodically (especially as building work
is now under way).
12. STANDING ORDERS
New template now received from KALC. Clerk in progress of making any
modifications required to suite PC, and will circulate to Parish Councillors.
13. FINANCE
13.1 Requests for funding. None
13.2 Accounts for payment to end March 2010.
Cllr Haffenden said that Council needed to be transparent and accounts for
payment would in future be circulated with the agenda to give Cllrs an
opportunity to examine them in advance. There was a need to reduce printing
costs and as far as possible information should be circulated by e-mail, now
that all Cllrs had e-mail access.
Parish Council account
RECEIPTS: None
ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
D Stuart Travelling Expenses: Nov 09-March
2010
42.60
Proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Barber. All agreed.
N Smith (Clerk)
Salary:
287.99
Expenses
18.95 306.94
Proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Barber. All agreed.
S Carter RFO – 1.4.09 – 31.3.10
295.29
Expenses
4.17 299.46
Proposed Cllr Stuart, seconded Cllr Barber. All agreed
SM Village Hall Hire of hall 2008-09
(re-issue - original not presented for
payment)
59.00
Noted.
£708.00
Windmill a/c
RECEIPTS: None
ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
Furley Page (£287.50) Mins: 13.1.10, Item 15.2.2 (paid 24.1.10)
Letts & Co (£419.25) “ “ “ (paid 31.2.10)
S Carter Volunteers “thank you” gathering:
Reimbursement to J Speakman (wine),
C Cooper and S Carter
(food) (paid
27.1.10)
68.06
Post Office Ltd EDF Energy (Dec-Feb) (paid
24.2.10)
41.50
G Poile Mill Manager honorarium
(2009)
200.00
S Carter Mill Secretary honorarium
(2009)
200.00
Expenses: ink cartridge
(part)
3.56
KMG
advertisement
80.00 283.56
D Maxwell Field cutting
(2009)
45.00
G Carter Associates SDC Building Regs.
application fee
(museum)
150.00
788.12
Mrs C Cooper answered a question on the KMG advert.
Proposed Cllr Stuart, seconded Cllr Barber. All
agreed.
Cllr Stuart asked if the question of payment to a trustee of the windmill had
yet been resolved. Mrs Cooper replied that it was still under discussion with
the solicitors.
Mr Barlow reported that he had carried out an audit of the accounts and the
year end statement was:-
Parish Council Current account 554.34
Deposit
account
730.09
Windmill Current account
7743.60
Deposit
account
2276.87
VAT refund applications had been submitted for both Parish Council and
Windmill, which would provide approx £200 each. Bank account interest payments
would not be known until April.
Clerk to confirm to Parish Council that income tax was paid on salaries
received.
13.3 Accounts for payment after 1 April 2010.
ACRK subs for 2010 - £35.
Proposed Cllr Gifford, seconded Cllr Stuart. All
agreed.
13.4 New finance officer/treasurer post.
Cllr Haffenden reported that the offer from Mr Barber to take on this role, on
a no fee basis, could now not be accepted as he was moving away from the area.
Two new volunteers had come forward – himself and Cllr Stuart. The options were
fully debated and it was agreed that Cllr Stuart would take on the role with
effect 1/4/2010 and would at the same time relinquish his cheque signatory
authority. Cllrs Gifford and Haffenden would become the new signatories after
1/4/2010. Clerk to write to Mr Barber thanking him for his offer.
13.5 Transfer of Windmill funds from Parish Council.
Agreed that these transactions to be carried out before 31/3/2010. Proposed
Cllr Barber, seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
14. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
14.1 Parish Council meetings 2010: 5th May (AGM),
14.2 Annual Parish Meeting Agreed to change date to 26th May
15. QUESTIONS
15.1 Cllr Gifford to provide new e-mail address to Clerk.
15.2 Mr Barlow said that Bossingham Village Hall was applying for Charitable status. As trustees of the hall, Stelling Minnis
Parish Council will be involved in the documentation processes.
15.3 Cllr Smyth reminded council that Stelling Minnis Village Hall was holding
a “Wild West” fund raising event on 24th April.
Meeting closed at 8.47pm
…………………….…………………………….. (Chairman)
……………………………………. (Date)
APPENDIX A
REPORTS FOR MARCH 2010 MEETING
8.1 KENT COUNTY COUNCIL
Council tax rise of 2.1% from 01 April. This is the lowest since council tax
was introduced. 423 KCC posts to go over the next two years.
Frontline services and the big capital investment programme maintained (Shepway
secondary schools will all be rebuilt/refurbished by 2015). Around £2 million
extra to be spent on repairing the roads after the bad weather this winter. The
work will be given to companies outside the present Kent Highways set up to try
to get more done. A proper repair can't be done in the wet or cold but all
potholes need reporting so that they can be dealt with temporarily and a better
fix done when the weather improves. It also helps to report the holes as if a
vehicle is damaged by a pothole that is already reported then the owner has a
better chance of compensation.
My neighbouring county councillor, John Simmonds and I have committed grants to
the sports project behind Bossingham Village Hall later this year.
Susan Carey 25 February 2010
8.3 KALC SHEPWAY AREA COMMITTEE – 21st JANUARY 2010
1)The main item on the agenda was Dungeness Nuclear Power Station with a
speaker, John Hughes, from SE Planning Aid (Royal Town Planning Institute) and
David Illsley from SDC.
Both suggested that PCs and TCs should lobby for the inclusion of Dungeness in
the list of possible sites for future developments (it is the only one which
has been withdrawn). There will be a meeting at Lydd on 14th Feb. and it is
hoped representatives of the Commission will attend.
Details of the Commission’s background information were tabled to help PCs.
NB SMPC sent a letter which has been circulated
2)Shepway Joint Transportation Board drew attention to review of speed limits
on A and B roads. PCs will be consulted in April
3)SDC Planning Users Group meeting was discussed.
Concern was expressed at revised procedures which had not addressed PC's
concerns – information has been circulated elsewhere.
4)Next meeting with SDC – Topics to include:
Circulation of information on by-elections, Parish election costs, and fly
posting.
David Stuart 26.02.2010
8.5 POLICE LIAISON and SPEED WATCH REPORT
Not a great deal to report as Trevor has not been well for the past few weeks
so I have not had an update on progress on the mobile sign. I understand that
it will managed by the Community Support Unit but they would like our input on
locations
We have a new Police Community Support Officer working with Trevor (he is
expected back in about a week). Her name is Michelle Brady
07772 226233
Speed Watch will start up again after the Easter Break. A bit of a later
start as the weather conditions have not entirely benign recently. A short
article is going in the next issue of the parish magazine which I hope will
prompt a few more recruits.
Jeremy Speakman 25 February 2010
8.6 MINNIS MANAGERS
REPORT ON MEETING OF MANAGERS OF STELLING MIINIS COMMON - 19 JANUARY 2010
• A fairly short meeting was held and where the minutes of the previous meeting
were agreed and signed.
• Matters discussed were the intercom erected on the Minnis outside “The
Cottage” and the caravan parked on the Minnis close to the shop. Neither of
these should be on the Minnis and Charlie Gooch has written to the owners.
• It was agreed that the post for the Historical Society maintained gate should
be resited to the original agreed position, ready for the restored old gate to
be hanged.
• It was noted that the cattle had been removed and would be replaced in Spring 2010.
• Andy Osborne would be asked to remove the stumps of the trees removed, when
weather appropriate.
• All the new bird and dormouse boxes have been installed.
• A request was made to Charlie Gooch from A Day that a formal response was
made to the Parish Council with regard to any preferred parking place on the
Minnis.
REPORT ON MEETING OF STELLING MINNIS CHARITABLE TRUST - 19 JANUARY 2010
• The Treasurer gave a report on monies held and where placed/invested.
• Various ongoing expenses were agreed and cheques written and signed which
included our annual insurance with the NFU of £439.85.
Ann Day 24 February 2010
8.11 SHEPWAY DISTRICT AND PCS JOINT COMMITTEE 25th FEBRUARY 2010
Topics discussed:
1)Election Costs. PCs expressed concern at cost of elections, usually mid term
by-elections which cost a substantial part of precept. SDC unable to help
financially and advised that some Kent Districts which had paid the costs were
no longer doing so. SDC would investigate if payment could be delayed to allow
PCs to spread cost but the advice was that PCs should build up a reserve to
cover the cost. It was suggested that KALC might consider lobbying the
Electoral Commission to review the rules on co-option.
2)Publicity of Information about Local Elections
including vacancies and official notices of candidates standing for elections.
Districts are only required to publicise on the website and an official notice
board. Consideration will be given to advising parish clerks, and advertising
in the ward.
3)Fly Posting. SDC policy is zero tolerance. However
in law the perpetrator has to be caught in the act to be fined. Local clubs and
societies are advised to be careful and remove all notices after an event.
Village Halls are advised to put a warning in their letting conditions.
4)Update on SDC Shared Working with other Councils.
Joint electoral services with Dover have been discontinued
A Shared Waste Service by 4 councils in East Kent is still on course, as are
landlord services and staffing arrangements.
SDC exploring joint Building Control with Ashford.
Payroll arrangements will be managed by KCC using a new computer system
5)Shepway Car Parking. An annual ticket will be
available for off street parking costing £50 for 2 hours at a time in short
stays or 3 hours in long stays.
David Stuart 26.02.2010
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Approved MINUTES of MEETING held on 13th JANUARY 2010
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chairman),
Barber, Day, Gifford, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow
(Internal Auditor) and PC Mr T Moody.
1. APOLOGIES KCC Cllr Carey, SDC Cllr Carr, Mrs S Carter (RFO) and Mr J
Hurdwell (SM Village Hall).
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST None.
The meeting was then closed to allow questions to be asked of PC Mr. T. Moody:-
PC Moody reported that he had discussions with Shepway transportation
department with regards to the flashing 30 mph sign proposed to be sited near
the school. He had no information yet on moving the 30mph limit sign nearer to
Harvest lane.
The over enthusiastic snowballing of elderly residents was found not to have
involved local boys.
The owner of the vehicle parked in Curtis Lane opposite the Scarps Lane
junction had been asked to park it elsewhere, as it was causing an obstruction.
Police surgeries would now be held in a mobile station when available – dates
would be shown in the Parish Magazine.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING held on 2nd September were agreed and signed, after 1
amendment (item 4.1 notice board – to be carried forward to next financial
year). Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 To seek formal response from the Minnis Managers
on the question of a preferred parking place on the Minnis. Cllr Day reported
that a meeting with Minnis Managers was imminent.
4.2 To respond on BTCV Heritage trees project. Clerk reported completed.
4.3 To respond to police survey. Cllr Speakman reported completed.
4.4 To assist PC Moody in identifying current owners of the former Stonegate
Farmers site on Stone Street (Elmstead Parish). Clerk reported that some
information had been provided to PC Moody, which he was following up.
4.5 Cllr Stuart gave an update the Post Office Friday December opening – it was
not as successful as demand had indicated.
5. MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
None, not covered elsewhere in the agenda.
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence (all on circulation)
6.1.1 SDC Town & Parish Councils planning user Group minutes of 8/12/09.
6.1.2 SDC Dungeness draft nuclear national policy statement.
6.1.3 KCC Highways update on snow clearance.
6.1.4 KCC Notes on legal situation regarding snow clearance.
6.1.5 NALC’s local councils awards 2010.
6.1.6 SDC Minutes of meeting of Council 25/11/09.
6.2 Items circulated for information
6.2.1 KALC Parish News.
6.2.2 KCC Highways portal training day information.
6.2.3 Note of appreciation from Claire Champion for Youth Club funding.
6.2.4 Clerks & Councils direct.
6.2.5 Invitation to Lord Lieutenant of Kent Civic Service 22 April 2010.
6.2.6 Guidance on gifts and hospitality.
6.2.7 KCC Highways: information on completion of safety road edges on Stone
Street.
6.2.8 SDC District & Parish Councils Joint Committee minutes 10 December.
6.2.9 Kent Highways – Kent Permit scheme.
6.3 Items acted on
6.3.1 Kent fire & rescue service survey completed and returned by Cllr
Haffenden.
6.3.2 Request from a Parishioner for the rationale behind Parish Councils
decision not to support the Anvil House planning application Summary of
Councils response to SDC provided.
6.3.3 Kent Downs and Marshes Leader programme – information given to both
Stelling Minnis Stores and Post Office owner (Wye) of possible grant funding.
6.3.4 KALC Training survey completed and returned to KALC.
6.3.5 Victim support – letter of rejection for funding sent.
6.3.6 Evidence of Councils support for joint Sports facility sent to Simon
Reed.
6.4 Items for discussion
6.4.1 Pre school move from BVH to School. Minutes of September meeting gave
date as “would be within 12 months and could be earlier”. Mr Gray (head
teacher) has since indicated that what he said was to the effect that it could
be as early as September 2010, but actual date would depend on circumstances.
Discussed and agreed that the minutes of the September meeting had been signed
as correct and if there was any new information regarding the pre-school move
date Council would record that, if provided by Mr Gray.
7. PLANNING
7.1 Ongoing planning cases
7.1.1 Gordon House. Cllr Haffenden reported that he had attended the SDC
Planning Committee meeting and circulated the statement he had given on behalf
of SDC (that SMPC had brought the breach of planning law to the attention of
SDC and were now looking for SDC to resolve the matter). He further reported
that Mr G Wright spoke on behalf of the residents and SDC Cllr Carr also spoke.
He also reported that whilst planning officers recommended approving the
certificate of lawfulness, this was rejected by the committee. Cllr Stuart said
that if the matter goes to appeal then SMPC may be called upon to provide
further information. This was discussed and agreed that SMPC had no further
information to provide and that SDC were the planning authority.
7.2 Late planning applications – None.
7.3 Applications dealt with since last meeting. Agreed that
where both SMPC views and SDC decisions were both given for a property that
these be reported as a single item.
7.3.1 Y09/0989/SH - Curtis End, Curtis Lane, Stelling Minnis. Erection of 2 storey rear extension and roof extension. SMPC
voted 1 Object and 6 No objections. The objection is purely on the design - the
fibre glass roof and large tile hung gable is not in keeping with other
properties. It was suggested that a hipped roof with dormer windows would have
been preferable. Two councillors who voted "no objection" have also
commented that the design is not as good as it could be. SDC decision – refused.
7.3.2 Y09/0978/SH - Stoneacre Farm, Stone Street, Stelling Minnis. Change of
use of land. SMPC voted 2 approve and 5 No objections. The only comment added
was that although the stable block is well screened it is perhaps a little
large. Change of use approved.
7.3.3 Y09/0983/SH - Badgers Croft, Mill Lane, Stelling Minnis. Formation of first floor balcony and other external alterations.
SMPC voted 3 Approve and 4 No objections. Concern was expressed that the
proposal may affect the privacy of the adjacent property. Concern has been
expressed that this proposal allows private access to a large room which could
become a bed-sitting room in its own right. Perhaps restrictions as to use
should be placed in the conditions if approval is given. SDC
decision - approved with time, materials & privacy screening conditions.
7.3.4 Y09/0953/SH – Malt Farm, Bossingham Road. Erection of
detached garage with a room in the roof. SMPC voted object 7:0. Whilst
building is of sympathetic design it is over sized for a double garage and
would appear to lend itself, with the addition, of a shower facility, to either
another separate dwelling on the whole of the Malt Farm/Malt Farm Barn complex
or a new holiday let. SDC decision - approved with time, materials and
residential use restriction conditions.
7.3.5 Y09/1059/SH - Great Field Farm, Missing Lane (Elmstead Parish) erection
of 2 wind turbines. SMPC voted 6 Approve and 1 object. Observations made to SDC
in respect of objection (visual impact) and support from 1 Councillor for small
scale wind generation projects of this type,
7.4 Decisions by Planning Authority (not already included in 7.3)
7.4.1 Y09/0907/SH - Little Hatch, Bossingham Road. Replacement
dwelling. Approved with time and materials conditions.
7.4.2 Y09/0930/SH Anvil House, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of
detached dwelling. Refused.
8. REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received.
8.2 Shepway District Council. No report received.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart had nothing to report.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart provided a written report – Appendix
A.
8.5 Police liaison and Speedwatch. Cllr Speakman reported that speedwatch would
recommence in the spring.
8.6 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day had nothing to report.
8.7 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Barber had
noting to report.
8.8 Bossingham Village Hall. Cllr Day had nothing to
report.
8.9 Transport & Highways. Cllr Stuart provided a written report – Appendix
A. Cllr Stuart drew Councils attention to the impending study on speed limits on
A & B roads. Parish Councils will be consulted and Council may wish to seek
views of residents before responding. Parish Councils views will be sought
between March and May 2010. It was suggested that a KCC highways representative
could be invited to speak at the Annual Parish Meeting on the subject. Cllr
Stuart further reported that KCC Councillors had a budget for minor highways
works, but there may need to be some contribution from Parish Council or
others. Cllr Smyth said that information on pot holes was coming in slowly and
that she was reporting these to KCC highways.
8.10 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford had nothing to report.
8.11 Windmill & Museum. – see item 12
8.12 Other – none.
9. VILLAGE APPRAISAL ACTION PLAN REVIEW
Councillors agreed to make any changes to the review print out currently on
circulation.
10. STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Barber reported that Mr J Hurdell had not yet received the confirmation
from the Charities Commission relating to SMPC ownership of the hall and that
the capital value would not affect the Audit commission charges for councils’
year end accounts. Carried forward to next meeting.
11. SPORTS FACILITY AT BOSSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Barber reported that the questionnaire had been printed and copies would
be distributed to all households in Stelling Minnis in Bossinham in early
February by insert in the Parish Magazine and personal delivery. Copies were
available in the shop. SMPC had contributed £150 towards the start up costs.
Discussed and agreed that no further funding from SMPC was being considered. Mr
David Barlow said that the two KCC councillors had allocated £15K from their
budgets.
12. WINDMILL AND MUSEUM
12.1 Trust deed. Cllr Haffenden reported that he had met with the committee and
had agreed a trust document that took into account the concerns of councillors.
Cllr Speakman reported that the trust deed was with the solicitors. It was
expected that the trust would be created, land transfers from Mr I Champion and
agreements with KCC would all be completed in time to open at Easter.
Councillors expressed concern over the prospect of trustees being paid, Cllr Speakman confirmed that those concerns had been
raised with the solicitor for advice. Cllr Haffenden acknowledged that a lot of
time and effort had been put in to progress the project so quickly.
13. STANDING ORDERS
13.1 Standing orders & financial regulations review
Clerk reported that the promised new template was not yet available from KALC.
Agreed Clerk should revisit the existing orders and suggest changes for Council
to consider at the next meeting.
14 HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY
Circulated policy was ratified. Proposed Cllr Haffenden,
seconded Cllr Stuart. All agreed.
15. FINANCE
15.1 requests for funding:
15.1.1 Kent Air Ambulance. Considered and rejected. Clerk to advise.
15.2 Accounts for payment: Clerk read a report prepared by Mrs S Carter –
15.2.1 Bank statement reconciliation as at 11/1/2010:-
Parish Council Current account £1522.41
Deposit account £ 730.09
Total in hand £2252.50
Windmill Current account £9238.47
Deposit account £2276.87
Total in hand £11515.34
15.2.2 Accounts for payment
Parish Council account:
N Smith (Clerk) £240.07 (Salary £195.38 + £44.69 expenses)
SDC £ 20.00 (Lotteries registration renewal)
Proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Gifford. All agreed.
Windmill account:
EDF energy £81.84 (Paid on 8 December).
Furley Page LLP TBA Drawing up charitable trust deed.
Letts & Co TBA Transfer of land for extension.
Proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Stuart subject to the
two TBA cheques only being signed once the amounts were confirmed and accepted
by Cllr Speakman as being valid. All agreed.
15.2.3 The transfer of funds from Parish Council windmill account to the new
charitable trust was discussed. Minute 12 of the meeting 4/11/2009 was
reconfirmed. The Charitable trust would pay any additional audit fees resulting
from the transfer of funds and reimburse Parish Council for the relevant
portion of the insurance premiums from the date the trust was set up to
insurance renewal.
15.3 Budget and precept 2010/11. Clerk confirmed that a precept of £4100 had
been applied for from SDC. Cllr Haffenden advised that Mrs Carter had confirmed
that she would continue as RFO to the end of the financial year and the
external audit for 2009/10.
15.4 Other finance matters.
15.4.1 Cllr Haffenden said that the new treasurer/financial officer post would
be advertised in the February issue of the Parish Magazine. Clerk advised that
a new contract would be required even if the post was at no cost to SMPC.
15.4.2 Clerk reported that there would be a change of external auditor in 2010.
16. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2010 3rd March, 5th May (AGM), 19th May (APM).
Agreed that Clerk would contact KCC Cllr Carey and SDC Cllr Carr regarding
possible alternative meeting day if that would assist their attendance at
Parish Council meetings.
17. QUESTIONS
None
Meeting closed at 8.52pm
APPENDIX A
REPORTS FOR JANUARY 2010 MEETING
KCC HIGHWAYS SEMINAR FOR PARISH COUNCILS IN EAST KENT - 25 NOVEMBER 2009
Note – All presentation papers will be available on line. This report refers
mainly to items of local interest. I would draw particular attention to the
section on the speed limit review. It will be a key item for 2010 and may need
a public meeting – possibly the annual parish meeting if the timing is right.
Welcome by Nick Chard – (new) cabinet member for Highways
In his welcome he made the point that due to the financial climate road
projects would be rationed. Mentioned that all members have a Highways
allowance (currently believed to be £25,000 –e.g. Lyminge are having some
lowered pavement work – with a contribution from PC expected).
Update by Kim Hills.
Liaison Officer system is working well. Kent Highways
on Line is improving and will be a key method of communications. Bad winter
2008/9 – av 85 saltings c/w 40 usually. Jan frost damage, 15 extra crews used.
Future repairs will use new materials and new equipment, will be able to do up
to 150m length fillings. Signs and Lines had not done as well this year as they
should – improving now – Dennis Barton in charge
Winter Service by Peter Loft
2008/9 – see above. This year new procedures with pure rock salt and pre
wetting should be more effective, 54 vehicles. 180 farmers in Kent have snow
ploughs to do minor roads – could still use a few more. Salt bins - £10k to
spend on new bins – PCs to make requests.
Soft Landscapes (e.g. trees and verges) by Alan Riley.
Trees – all Kent work now with two large contractors. Hedges still mainly
responsibility of land owners. If there are visibility problems advise KCC, who will pursue with land owner and will cut a
hedge if they are satisfied that there is a safety issue.
Verges – many different systems across Kent for historical reasons. KCC will
try to produce a rationalised regime and standard practice in next year or two.
(Canterbury and Shepway are managed differently which is why CCC area is done
better). Shepway contract now with SDC but in fact managed by Dover DC.
Junctions/sight lines are now supposed to have 4 cuts per year – ( so it is probable that we will need to continue to press
for more work at Curtis Lane)
Japanese Knotweed is a BIG problem – advise if seen (SM Managers need to be
aware)
My Kent on Line by Roxanne Jefferies
It is being improved as are links to and from other sites. Will
be main source of information. It is Password enabled – (we need to
check that we have password).
Kent Permit Scheme by David Latham
From Jan 2010 – first scheme in UK. All road works
(BT, EDF etc) must have permit from KCC.
Road Safety by Steve Horton
Similar to 2008 presentation. Christmas 2009 campaign.
Current road death rates in Kent (approx 100 per year) at a level below set
targets.
County wide Speed limit Review by Kirstie Horton
The big issue of the day. All A and B roads in Kent
must have been reviewed by 2011. East Kent roads (called Area 2 for this
exercise) are being done now
Government circular 1/2006 specifies all speed limits must be self
explanatory/reinforce peoples own assessment/encourage compliance. IT DOES NOT
SAY crash reduction.
The review must be consistent – based on the situation now – give clear
guidance – identify highways work to enhance a limit.
The review does NOT target local speed related issues – predict into the future
(i.e. allow for planned future developments) – consider how limits are enforced
– deal with any roads other than A and B.
The process is – Desk top survey – initial visit – adjudicators review –
statutory review (police) – transportation developments including a PC rep (we
could lobby him) – PARISH COUNCILS – final review.
PC role – key public consultees - to inform and consult with local residents –
the process does not allow for consultation/representations by individuals –
collate local views – feedback (a factor not mentioned was coordination between
several parishes affected by a single road).
There will be on line training (not very user friendly, sorry)
Time scale aiming to have info to PCs by April 2010 with 10 weeks allowed for
response.
Final Review – signs and lines design – road traffic regulations – new signs.
KALC and Highways by Rodney Williamson.
Stressed good working relations between KCC Highways and Parishes
SDC -Town and Parish Councils Planning User Group - 8 December 2009
Matters Arising – It was reported that the order of speaking by non members at
the Development Control Committee had been revised with the applicant’s
representative now allowed to speak last. This was the only change made in
response to PC's request for improvements to their speaking rights, and was
generally regarded as a retrograde move by PC reps.
LDF Update on Consultations – report attached. Concern expressed by PCs at
short time available for consultation on Infrastructure issues
Conservation Area Planning – new rules on Solar Panels. Permission not required
if it is on house roof, only if it is on visible wall.
Changes to Planning Process – details will be on website. Minor
amendments to existing approvals.
Very minor non material amendments (just details e.g. change the size of a door)
– new standard form, no consultation, will be on weekly delegated lists, 28
days only.
Minor Material amendments e.g. Varying approved plans but scale and nature not
substantial – formal application needed, will consult PCs.
Length of of existing permission (usually 3 years) – can apply to extend, will
consult PCs, only one application allowed.
Dealing with planning by email only. Authorities want
to go this way (a lot of pressure). SDC intend to have a trial with Lyminge PC.
Consultations with English Heritage and Environment Agency
already done this way.
Certificates of Lawfulness – in effect two types 1) establishing if an existing
use is lawful -PCs likely to be consulted to provide information. 2) Is a
proposed change lawful, does it meet legal stipulations (e.g. Changing approved
roofing materials). PCs unlikely to be consulted as it
just the officers decision interpreting the law. They
must appear on the weekly lists.
ENFORCEMENT
The major item. See attached detailed handout, worth spending time on if
a councillor is concerned
Points to note:
Enforcement must be in the public interest – it mustn't be trivial – it must
answer the question “what harm is being caused”. It should not be a punitive
response to someone failing to submit an application. It is not illegal to
build without planning permission – but few choose to ignore the rules – and
all matters are recorded on a case history file and will come up in searches
(i.e. when a sale is being processed).
Action must be taken within 4 years (10 in a few cases, see notes which
includes examples) but once enforcement action is formally taken the clock
stops.
SDC and Parishes Joint Committee – 10 December 2009
Main topic was SDC Engineering Services. Main activities within the District
are Coast protection, Land Drainage, and Sea Defences. (not
directly applicable to SMPC). Will advise PCs if need on Engineering Services
e.g. Construction of Car parks or hard footpaths.
D G Stuart
Approved MINUTES of MEETING held on 4th November 2009
Present: Cllrs Haffenden
(Chairman), Barber, Day, Gifford, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor); Mrs S Carter (RFO) Ms
C Cooper (Stelling Minnis Windmill), Mr J Hurdwell (Stelling Minnis Village
Hall) and PC Mr T Moody
1. APOLOGIES KCC Cllr Carey and SDC Cllr Carr.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST None.
3. MINUTES OF MEETING held on 2nd September were agreed and signed. Proposed
Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. It was also agreed that copies of
the minutes displayed on the notice board and web site would be marked “draft”
until they had been ratified at the next Parish Council meeting.
4. MATTERS ARISING
4.1 To contact Trent Gifford re TLC on notice boards.
Cllr Gifford reported that Trent Gifford and the Scouts were unable to help. Carried forward to next year for further discussion.
4.2 Health & Safety Statement. Clerk reported that he and Cllr Stuart had
prepared a draft Health & Safety statement which would be circulated for comment.
To be ratified at the January meeting.
4.3 Post Office Opening hours. Cllr Stuart reported that the Post Office would
be open on Fridays during December. (November meeting).
4.4 Windmill sub committee terms of reference for web site. Clerk reported
draft had been prepared which would be circulated for comment and then put on
the web site.
4.5 Parking on Minnis – waiting for response from Minnis Managers. Discussed. Agreed that parking on the
Minnis was unlikely to be agreed. Cllr Stuart asked that the Minnis
Managers give a formal response, which Cllr Day agreed to take up with them.
4.6 Windmill – contact KCC re raising cesspool cover. Mrs Carter reported that
the problem was found not to be the cesspool cover but damage to the
underground pipe work. This would be corrected as part of the windmill museum
extension work.
4.7 Respond to KALC re exercising devolved powers from District/Borough
Councils. Clerk reported that he had responded with regard to devolved powers
from KCC regarding the windmill. It was suggested that there were also devolved
responsibilities with regard to the closed churchyard at Stelling Church.
4.8 Holly Tree Farm (Y09/0203/SH). Clerk reported that
SDC had replied indicating that they did not see the change of roof style a
significant change and hence had approved.
4.9 Respond to KCC with Councils views on New Pre-School Building. Clerk
reported that this had been completed.
4.10 (Agenda item 10) Obtain confirmation from Charities Commission
that registration by Parish Council of Hall as a capital asset would
not affect audit return charges. Refer to agenda item 10.
4.11 Sports facility. Write to Simon Reed for progress update and copy to UHPC.
Clerk confirmed he had contacted Simon Reed. Refer agenda item 11 for latest
position.
5. MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
None not covered elsewhere in the agenda.
6. CORRESPONDENCE
6.1 To table items of late correspondence
6.1.1 BTCV Heritage trees project. Clerk has suggested response to
questionnaire for Parish Council after communication with Tree Officer.
Questionnaire for Groups and organisations copied on to School, Youth Challenge
Group, Minnis Managers, Historical Society, Scouts, Guides, and Brownies. No
cost implications for Groups or Parish Council. Agreed Clerk
to respond as suggested.
6.1.2 Kent Police – 2nd edition of “Policing Matters” – on circulation.
6.1.3 Letter from Lizette Patching SDC, re land adjacent to St Bernadettes
Cottage.
6.2 Items circulated for information
6.2.1 Clerks & Councils Direct (Sept 2009)
6.2.2 SDC Response from Robert Allan re Holly Tree Farm and new roof
6.2.3 KALC Parish News (Sept 09)
6.2.4 KCC Community Safety Newsletter
6.2.5 SDC Minutes of District and Parish Councils Joint Committee
6.2.6 Bringing the compact to life
6.2.7 ACRK – Rural News
6.2.8 KALC Agenda for Shepway Area Committee + minutes of meeting 16 July
6.2.9 SDC Minutes of development control committee meeting 22 Sept 09
6.2.10 Kent Highways – Parish Seminar 25 November
6.2.11 SDC amendments to approved plans and extensions - new legislation
wef 1/10/09
6.2.12 KCC seminars on procurement law for local authorities 2/12/09
6.2.13 KALC AGM notice + report
6.2.14 Correspondence from Parishioner to Ann Day re trees obstructing highway
on 558 bus route through Lyminge Forest
6.2.15 ACRK – Annual summary
6.2.16 Oast to Coast
6.2.17 SDC Minutes of Shepway Community Partnership meeting 28/7/09
6.2.18 Kent LINk event on Folkestone
6.2.19 Kent Downs and Marshes Leader
6.2.20 Protect Kent Pack
6.3 Items acted on
None
6.4 Items for discussion - None
6.4.1 Parish Seminar 25 November 2009. Cllr Stuart said he would represent
Council.
6.4.2 Kent Police Survey. Discussed and Agreed Cllr
Speakman should respond on behalf of Council.
7. PLANNING
7.1 Ongoing planning
7.1.1 Gordon House. Clerk gave an update from SDC Cllr Carr – the
certificate of lawfulness would go before the planning committee later this
year and two representatives (one for and one against) would be invited to
speak – she would be available to speak against. Cllr Stuart said that SDC Cllr
Carr should speak against on behalf of the residents of Stelling Minnis and not
the Parish Council. Cllr Haffenden said that Parish Council had been put in a
difficult position. This was an SDC planning matter and Parish Council could
not been seen to take sides. Cllr Speakman suggested that Parish Council might
wish to debate its views on land undergoing change of use to residential
gardens. Cllr Barber suggested that Council would consider each application on
its merits, as they had always done. -
7.2 Late planning applications –
7.2.1 Anvil House (Y09/0939/SH) – erection of detached dwelling. Circulated. Discussed, views were 7 Object. Clerk to prepare
draft response to SDC and circulate for final agreement before submitting to
SDC.
7.2.2 Stoneacre Farm (Y09/0978/SH) – change of use of land. On
circulation 29/10/09.
7.2.3 Curtis End (Y09/0989/SH) – Erection of two storey rear extension and roof
extension as part of conversion of roof space to provide first floor
accommodation. On circulation 29/10/09.
7.2.4 Badgers Croft (Y09/0983/SH) – Formation of first floor balcony to the
rear elevation together with other external alterations. On
circulation 1/11/09.
7.3 Applications dealt with since last meeting:
7.3.1 SH/09/TEMP/0024 – KCC Stelling Minnis Primary School – New Pre-school
building. 6 Approve 1 Object. Discussed why the objecting Councillor was given
a second opportunity to comment but the approving councillors were not. It was
felt wrong by Council that KCC should be both the applicant and the planning
authority.
7.3.2 Y09/0896/SH - Gordon House certificate of lawfulness. Circulated
7/10/09. Responded to SDC No new information to add.
Copy of response circulated.
7.3.3 Y09/0907/SH Little Hatch, Bossingham Road Erection of replacement dwelling.
Circulated 7/10/09.Response to SDC – 6 Approve and 1 no
objections.
7.4 Decisions by Planning Authority
7.4.1 SH/09/TEMP/0024 – Stelling Minnis Primary School extension for
pre-school. Approved with time, materials conditions and
recommendations to reduce visual impact and use of premises outside school
hours.
8. REPORTS
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received.
8.2 Shepway District Council. Clerk read the following
report provided by Cllr Carr – Meadow view: SDC aware of situation and were
keeping a watch on developments; Lydd Airport: planning meeting will now be
held 3rd March 2010 and cannot be postponed again; SDC will not be funding any
new bus shelters, but will fund minor repairs to existing ones; Local
development framework & core strategy – an update with responses from
community and Parish Councils etc., villages in areas of outstanding beauty
will be virtually left alone. The Elham Valley project may be an opportunity
for local businesses to advertise themselves and for parishioners to contribute
to the project website.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report – Appendix A.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart provided a written report – Appendix A.
8.5 Police liaison and Speedwatch. Cllr Speakman reported that there had been
speed watch sessions in October with 9 sessions over 2 weeks. He was proposing
to reduce the number of sessions to 1 or 2 a day with additional support from
PC Trevor Moody. More volunteers needed.
8.6 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that correspondence relating to the non
Highland Cattle had been received and responded to. The Historical society
needed to move the newly sited gate post. 9 Dormice had been found on the
Minnis. Charles Gooch would be writing with regards to the caravan parked on
the Minnis outside Orchard Villas. Six mile excavators had provided assistance
with work at Coxsole pond.
8.7 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Barber provided
a written report – Appendix A.
8.8 Bossingham Village Hall . Cllr Day had nothing to
report.
8.9 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth asked that the Pot Holes notice be
repeated in the next Parish Magazine.
8.10 Youth Club. Cllr Gifford had nothing to report.
8.11 Windmill & Museum. Mrs Carter gave a report. See appendix A.
8.12 Other reports - None.
9. UPDATE ON POLICE MATERS – PC Trevor Moody
PC Moody said that he was here to answer any questions and provide information
on current activities. He reported that an arrest had been made in respect of
the recent burglaries and property had been recovered. The current crime rate
was better than average. A mobile police station had visited the village and
the three things most important to villagers was speeding vehicles, rubbish
& litter and dog fouling. Speeding vehicles will be targeted in conjunction
with speedwatch. He handed out some leaflets on a variety of subjects which
Cllr Haffenden will outline in his next article for the Parish Magazine. He
said that an illegal rave had been stopped at the former Stonegate Farmers site
and that a vehicle involved in theft of Kent peg tiles from the site had been
seized. The site was insecure and the current owners had not been able to be
identified – Clerk would assist PC Moody in locating the current owners. PC
Moody said that a highways job number 16311381 had been generated to move the
30mph speed sign near the school towards and perhaps beyond Harvest Lane. In
answer to questions from Cllrs, PC Moody said that he would enquire about the
suggested flashing speed limit sign; that additional speedwatch locations could
be agreed on request; that the yellow no parking lines outside the school ay be
extended once the car park was completed; that an update on progress on a crime
could always be obtained from him by quoting the crime number; that he would
take appropriate action where vehicles were parked on the pavement. Cllr
Haffenden thanked PC Moody for attending and talking to Council and that he was
sure that parishioners appreciated the increased police presence that he was
giving.
10 STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Mr Hurdwell reported that a copy of the land registry certificate has been
obtained (Cllrs were handed copies) which showed the Parish Council as owners
of the hall. After a brief discussion Cllr Haffenden said that it was clear
that the asset should be shown on the Parish Council register. The village hall
committee would pay all costs involved in ascertaining the value of the asset
and changing the address on the land registry to that of the current Clerk. All
agreed.
11. SPORTS FACILITY AT BOSSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL
Cllr Barber reported that the questionnaire was progressing well and was
expected to be distributed after Christmas. Council discussed the questionnaire
and concluded that its aim was to identify the top 5 priority sports facility
requirements. The project is being led by Upper Hardres Parish Council.
12. WINDMILL AND MUSEUM
Mrs Carter reported that she had circulated brief details of the tender prices
received and that the Windmill and museum committee favoured the one produced
by Kevin Haffner. Funding should use the finances held by Parish Council in the
Windmill account first before drawing on funds in the museum account. Mrs
Carter outlined the target project timescale and that the new Friends of
Stelling Minnis Windmill should be set up by December. After discussion the
following motion was put – That Stelling Minnis Parish Council agrees, subject
to The Friends of Stelling Minnis Windmill being legally constituted, to
transfer any balance in its windmill account to The Friends of Stelling Minnis
Windmill. Proposed Cllr Haffenden seconded Cllr Stuart. Unanimously
agreed. (It was noted that at 31/10/2009 the available funds were
£2497.98 in the Windmill account and £9175.70 in the museum account.)
13. FINANCE
13.1 requests for funding
13.1.1 Bossingham Youth Club (£200). This was discussed and taking into account
the Parish Councils commitment to pay 50% of the hall rent, which had increased
to £600 for the current year, a contribution of £300 would be paid for the
current year. Proposed Cllr Day, Seconded Cllr Speakman. Unanimously
agreed.
13.1.2 Victim Support. Discussed and rejected.
13.2 Accounts for payment
Parish Council:
Cllr Stuart Travelling Costs £39.00
Clerk Salary £186.12 and expenses £10.71 – total £196.83.
Windmill account:
Mill Managers meeting £37.15
Countryside arts (tea towels) £76.50
Proposed Cllr Day seconded Cllr Speakman. Unanimously agreed.
Income of £69 to Parish Council in respect of Windmill audit; £269.28 donations
to the Windmill and £490.84 donations to the Museum were recorded.
13.3 Clerks’ salary. Clerk left the room for this item. Agreed that to reflect
the increase in work load Clerks salary would be increased from 11 to 16 hours
a month from 1/4/2010 and that a payment of £100 would be made at the end of
the current financial year. Unanimously agreed.
13.4 Budget and precept 2010/11
A budget was presented to Parish Council and discussed. Precept would be £4100.
Proposed Cllr Haffenden, Seconded Cllr Stuart. Unanimously agreed. See
appendix B.
13.5 Other finance matters – none.
14. DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2010 13th January, 3rd March, 5th May (AGM), 19th May (APM).
15. QUESTIONS
There were no questions.
Meeting closed at 10.15pm.
…………………….…………………………….. (Chairman)
……………………………………. (Date)
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
WRITTEN REPORTS FOR MEETING 4th November 2009
REPORTS ON
MEETINGS ATTENDED September and October 2009
SDC and Parish Councils Joint Committee 17th September
Minutes of this meeting have been circulated
The two main items of interest to SMPC were Grass
Cutting and the Future of this Committee. In both cases it will be interesting
to see what the future brings.
KALC Shepway Area Committee 15th October
Speaker – Amanda Oates SDC Arts Development Officer. The main role was
to promote and increase access to the Arts in the Area. This included a
database on line and funds and grants for various arts projects. There are
grants available for taking Art into rural areas and also funds to support arts
events and workshops in rural communities – see the website.
NB (for SMPC) – In the team is a sports officer, Wilbert Greaves who may have
funds for similar activities.
Points from KALC Kent Executive
NALC new Draft Standing Orders for PCs still awaited
FINANCE – budget on line for small surplus. Finance Training Day cancelled due
to lack of support
AGM 14 Nov – Please support – 2 speakers, Michael Chater Chairman of NALC and
Mick Sutch KCC Head of Planning and Transport. 3 Motions
including a move to improve PC representation on Joint Transportation Board
(DGS to propose) and another about moves to put planning only on line.
QUALITY STATUS Staplehurst council will lose status on applying for
re-accreditation because number of co-opted councillors has increased during
life of present councillors.
PLANNING PORTALS. A survey by Canterbury has
highlighted problems if all planning applications in future are only on line.
These include the cost of equipment and clerk's time, a number of councillors
who refuse to go on line and hence will be outside the system, and the problems
of Broadband access in some areas.
Points from Joint Transportation Board. Mainly local issues including Hythe High Street and petitions for
30mph limits. NOTE In 2010 there should be consultations with parishes
in East Kent on speed limits on A and B class roads.
STANDARDS COMMITTEE
Recently there have been a number of complaints about one council, but they
have all been dismissed as vexatious.
David Stuart
Stelling Minnis Village Hall
The quarterly meeting of the management committee was held on the 14th of
September.
A 1947 photo of members of the village at that time was discussed; the names of
those present are being identified. Jonathan Hurdwell is still awaiting formal
confirmation regarding the position of the Asset Register, he has confirmed
when he has this he will speak to the Chair of the Parish Council. Graffiti was
reported to have been found on the back wall of the Hall on two occasions, this
has now been removed.
A report was given on the summer BBQ .It was a very successful event making a
profit for the hall of £485.82p. A report from the Treasurer was also received
and discussed. A number of applications for grants for energy savings measures
are being made to improve the cost effectiveness of the running of the hall.
The next fund raising event will be on the 14th November, Strictly Disco. As
always all be very welcome Tickets will be made available soon. Details will be
included in the Parish Magazine
Pippa Barber
Windmill Report
It was Stelling Minnis’s turn to host the Annual Mill
Managers’ Meeting on Sat, 17 October which was held at the Rose & Crown.
Our Guest Speaker was David McDine who gave a very interesting and entertaining
talk on the history of the Minnis and on the Davison family who owned the Mill.
George operated the slide projector which, as you can imagine, caused much
amusement, not least cricks in the neck.
From the annual reports received, it appears our Mill faired better than many
others with increased visitor numbers, etc. Our end-of-season figures show a
75% increase in Mill income due mainly to a lot more school and special group
visits on weekdays and evenings.
As far as the Mill is concerned, there is not much to report from KCC.
• All windmills have been assessed for fire alarms fitted with a radio link;
these will be installed into every KCC mill.
• An inspection of portable electrical appliances was carried out last week.
There were no items in the Mill but the Engineer pointed out that power was not
getting through to all the sockets. I will raise this with Allan – it may be
something the electrician could check and remedy when the extension is built.
• When I spoke to the Engineer, he very kindly agreed to check the Museum for
electrical safety – one kettle found in the cupboard was faulty. The metal tea
urn, which we thought would not comply with regulations and replaced last year,
was found to be OK! He checked the lighting and power points
as well and changed fuses where needed, at no cost. Everything
electrical in the Museum is now adorned with a bright inspection sticker, so
one less regulation to think about.
• Finally, a grinding session took place on Sunday 18 October mainly to ensure
everything was in working order before shutting down for the winter. All went
to plan, with a few tweaks here and there by the experts, and we all came away
with some flour to experiment with – I don’t think we’ll be using this for our
scones just yet. Hopefully, next year, we can hold regular sessions which may
encourage more volunteers to help as guides – many people would like to see the
Mill working, or at least the sweeps turning, on our normal opening days but,
sadly, it would be impossible to do this.
Shelagh Carter
Budget 2010/2011
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||
|
|
Predicted 2009/10 |
Expected 2009/10 |
Available 2010/2011 |
|
|
Budget |
Spend to 14/10/09 |
Predicted |
Budget |
Budget notes |
|
|
2009/10 |
2009/10 |
2010/11 |
|
|
2009/10 |
2009/10 |
2009/10 |
2010/11 |
|
|
Current Account |
|
|
|
|
KALC Membership |
230.00 |
222.16 |
222.16 |
250.00 |
|
|
Balance |
55.99 |
55.99 |
55.99 |
|
ACRK Membership |
37.00 |
35.00 |
35.00 |
37.00 |
|
|
Projected surplus at 1/4/2010 |
|
387.51 |
387.51 |
|
Insurance |
407.00 |
337.63 |
337.63 |
400.00 |
Fixed for 5 years if shared with Windmill |
|
Expected total in Current account |
55.99 |
443.50 |
443.50 |
|
CPRE Membership |
30.00 |
29.00 |
29.00 |
32.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Village Hall hire |
70.00 |
59.00 |
59.00 |
70.00 |
|
|
Deposit Account |
|
|
|
|
Stelling Churchyard upkeep |
200.00 |
200.00 |
200.00 |
200.00 |
|
|
Balance |
715.88 |
715.88 |
|
|
Age concern - annual donation |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
|
|
Interest |
|
14.21 |
|
|
BCTV Tree/footpath officer |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
100.00 |
|
|
Expected total on Deposit |
715.88 |
730.09 |
730.09 |
|
Bossingham VH - Youth club hire |
200.00 |
|
300.00 |
300.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Councillors travelling expenses |
170.00 |
23.40 |
130.00 |
130.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SDC Lottery renewal |
21.00 |
|
21.00 |
25.00 |
Could be paid from Windmill fund |
|
Precept |
3,950.00 |
|
4100.00 |
|
Audit commission (50%) |
75.00 |
69.00 |
69.00 |
75.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
N Smith (Clerk Salary |
1,107.96 |
549.60 |
1,107.96 |
1,140.00 |
Based on current 11 hrs/month |
|
Assets |
|
|
|
|
N Smith (Clerk Expenses |
202.04 |
145.12 |
241.90 |
250.00 |
|
|
Totals |
4,721.87 |
|
5,273.59 |
|
N Smith (Clerk Training costs |
100.00 |
94.84 |
94.84 |
0.00 |
|
|
Less predicted expenditure |
|
|
4,092.18 |
|
S Carter RFO salary + expenses |
265.00 |
|
265.00 |
0.00 |
|
|
Expected to be in hand |
|
1,173.59 |
1,181.41 |
|
RFO expenses |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
65.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Parish Plan - contribution Joint Sports |
150.00 |
|
150.00 |
0.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Councillor Training |
65.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notice board materials |
50.00 |
0.00 |
50.00 |
0.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chairman’s Allowance |
50.00 |
25.00 |
50.00 |
50.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sub total |
|
|
|
3,224.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Contribution to reserve/contingency |
320.00 |
0.00 |
320.00 |
350.00 |
20% of expenditure = £644.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase to Clerks salary (+5 hrs/month) |
|
|
|
518.18 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Totals |
3,950.00 |
1,989.75 |
3,882.49 |
4,092.18 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Surplus |
|
|
67.51 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Precept |
3,950.00 |
|
|
4,100.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Precept Increase £ |
290.00 |
|
|
150.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Precept increase % |
9.72% |
|
|
3.80% |
|
STELLING
MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Approved MINUTES of ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING held on 13th May 2009
Present: Cllrs Stuart (Chaired meeting) Barber, Day, Smyth, Speakman and
Haffenden (present from item 7). Also in attendance Mrs S
Carter (RFO), Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor),) and 1 member of the public.
1. ELECTION OF OFFICERS.
1.1 Chairman. Cllr Haffenden had agreed to be nominated in his absence and was
elected as Chairman. Proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded
Cllr Day. All agreed.
1.2 Vice Chairman. Cllr Stuart – proposed Cllr Speakman,
seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
1.3 Internal Auditor. Mr David Barlow – proposed Cllr Barber, seconded Cllr
Day. All agreed.
2. APOLOGIES KCC Cllr Carey (SDC Cabinet meeting), SDC Cllr Carr (SDC Cabinet
meeting), Cllr Gifford (Personal commitments), Mr J Hurdwell (SM Village Hall)
& Mrs A Wills (Canterbury Gazette).
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Cllr Stuart declared an interest in land adjacent
to St Bernadettes Cottage – item 8.1.2.
4. MINUTES OF MEETING held on 3rd March were agreed and signed. Proposed Cllr
Smyth and seconded Cllr Stuart.
5. MATTERS ARISING
5.1 Making and enforcing of bye-laws Cllr Day reported Minnis Managers had been
made aware.
5.2 In the absence of Cllr Gifford, Clerk reported that he had previously
spoken to Scott Gifford who had confirmed that the notice board was generally
sound, had cleared the grass from the around the legs and treated them with
preservative and said that overall the notice board needed wire brushing and
treating with a decorative preservative. No volunteers had come forward to
undertake the necessary work. Agreed that Clerk would contact
Scott Gifford for a price do the work.
5.3 Health & Safety statement. Clerk reported that an H&S statement
used by another Parish Council had been received from KALC. Cllr Stuart and
Clerk would adapt for SMPC use.
5.4 Rural retailer of the year. Clerk reported that Shop keeper unable to
participate this year.
5.5 Cllr Stuart reported that The Post Office was sympathetic to opening the
local branch on more days in December. The Post Mistress had said that it would
depend on staff availability. Cllr Stuart to raise
again in October in time for the November Parish Magazine.
5.6 East Kent Sustainable Community Strategy. Response sent by Clerk –
circulated.
5.7 Windmill & Museum training requirements. Mrs Carter reported none
requested by the insurers.
5.8 Freedom of Information Act – Windmill sub committee. Clerk reported that
this was in hand between him and Mrs Carter. Mrs Carter reported that she would
be attending a meeting with KCC to confirm, but the original terms of reference
relating to opening and maintenance may still be applicable. Ongoing.
5.9 Village Hall: Mr. Hurdwell sent a written report that he was investigating
the Charities Commission land holding service and would report back at next PC
meeting.
5.10 Mrs Carter to submit accounts for salaries for 2008/9 to
show in the 2008/9 accounts. Done
5.11 Clerk reported he had written to the Minnis managers about parking on the
Minnis (copy circulated) and that they were referring the request to the owners
because of legal complications.
6. MATTERS DEALT WITH SINCE THE LAST MEETING
All matters are either covered by section 7 or
elsewhere in the agenda.
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 To table late items of correspondence: None.
7.2 Correspondence circulated and noted:
7.2.1 SDC District & Parish Councils Joint Committee minutes 26 Feb 09
7.2.2 Local Development Framework – provisional findings of SDC SHLAA
7.2.3 KCC Commons Act 2006: Common Land/Village Green seminar 14/5/09. Cllrs
Haffenden, Day and Clerk will be attending.
7.2.4 KALC Parish News (March)
7.2.5 ACRK – Rural news No 89 March 09
7.2.6 KALC Parish News (April)
7.2.7 KCC Highways – Parish Portal. Agreed that Council would
wish for access when available. Cllr Smyth & Clerk should receive
training.
7.3 Correspondence received and dealt with:-
7.3.1 Response to NHS regarding GP services in Stelling Minnis and Dental
Practices in Canterbury area. Clerk to seek clarification on additional Dental
services to be provided in Canterbury area. Cllr Stuart drew attention to
leaflet distributed by NHS and a response he had received indicating that
additional local NHS services to meet the needs of residents would be
considered.
7.3.2 Response to KCC Highways grass cutting schedule to Jncn Stone
Street/Curtis Lane. Fully discussed. Clerk to raise
visibility at the junction again with both KCC and SDC.
7.4 Items for discussion.
Nothing not covered elsewhere in agenda to discuss.
8. PLANNING
8.1 Ongoing planning cases
8.1.1 Gordon House – nothing new to report.
8.1.2 Land adjacent to St Bernadettes Cottage. Deferred until
after meeting closed.
8.2 To table late planning applications received for consideration
8.2.1 YO9/0329/SH-Woodham, Curtis Lane – erection of conservatory. On circulation.
8.3 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting
8.3.1 KCC SH/09/122 – Stelling Minnis Primary School, change of use of playing
field to car park. 6 approved and 1 no objections.
Notes added to response to KCC. Applicant responded to SMPC notes regarding
number of car parking spaces, sufficient space to turn and road signage –
response circulated for information. Also noted that SDC have raised concerns –
copy circulated.
8.3.2 Y09/0120/SH – Minnis End, Wheelbarrow Town. Erection of
front porch and re-cladding of dormer cheeks to front and rear elevations.
No Objections 7:0.
8.3.3 Y09/0241/SH – Elmstead Parish – Thorn Farm, Thorn Lane – erection of
freestanding wind turbine. 6 approve and 1 object.
Note added that councillors support the concept of small scale wind generation
as a contribution to the reduction of fossil fuel reliance, but have expressed
concern over the height of this one together with the noise pollution that it
would generate.
8.3.4 YO9/0203/SH – Holly Tree Farm, Pony Cart Lane. Create new roof with an
increase in roof height, new dormers to front + other external alterations: No
objections 7:0.
8.4 To table decisions by Planning Authority
8.4.1 YO9/0188/SH – Joarda, 1 Crown Lane. Approved – time & material
conditions.
9. REPORTS
9.1 No KCC report.
9.2 Shepway District Council: SDC Cllr Carr sent report that over the past year
she had been very happy working with Parish Council.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee: Written report circulated -see Appendix A.
9.4 Police liaison and Speedwatch: Written report circulated - see Appendix A.
Reminder given on PACT meeting 28 May. Cllr Day reported that she send all
speedwatch reports to police but has never had a reply.
9.5 SDC Planning Users Group: No meeting held this period.
9.6 Minnis Managers: No meeting held this period.
9.7 Stelling Minnis Village Hall: Written report circulated. See Appendix A.
9.8 Bossingham Village Hall : No report on hall received. Sports facility
written report circulated – see Appendix A.
9.9 Transport & Highways. Cllr Stuart reported on the KCC highways meeting held
11 May re flood alleviation work on Stone Street. Work to go ahead as planned
commencing 27 May 2009. Will now only take 3 weeks to
complete. Council have been asked to suggest local diversions routes.
This was discussed and agreed. Clerk to advise KCC and arrange for local
publicity (notice board, shop window, Parish Magazine and web site).
9.10 Youth Club: No report received.
9.11 Windmill & Museum: Mrs Carter reported that funds from the Windmill
Fete Committee should be sufficient to pay for the cost of the museum
extension. It was agreed that the Windmill Committee will consider the tenders
and recommend a final contractor. Council will then receive the tenders and
consider the recommendation before agreeing a contract for the work.
Professional advice needs to be sought on payment processes, which Cllr
Haffenden will seek. Mrs Carter then reported on visits. She also said that wet
weather had adverse effect on the cesspool and will contact KCC with regard to
raising the cesspool cover, it being on the mound which is part of the listed
site.
9.12 Other. None.
10 VILLAGE APPRAISAL ACTION PLAN REVIEW
10.1 Deferred until next meeting.
10.2 See 7.3.1
11 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
11.1 See 5.3 regarding Health & Safety statement.
11.2 Clerk reported that he had contacted KALC regarding information received
on retaining e-mails.
12 STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
See 5.9. Awaiting update from John Hurdwell.
13 SPORTS FACILITY AT BOSSINGHAM VILLAGE HALL
See 9.8 and report at Appendix A. The need for a “set up” fund for the
committee was discussed. £150 agreed. Proposed Cllr Stuart,
seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. A third, non Council, member had been recruited
– Mrs C Hamilton.
14 SPEED LIMITS
Cllr Speakman reported on a Government consultation paper which had been
produced in which safety played a large part. Possible suggestions include
50mph for single carriageway roads and 20mph in rural villages. Cllr Speakman
outlined the scope of the questions to which Parish Council were invited to
respond. Clerk to arrange for the list of questions to be published on the web
site. Council said that B roads, like B2068 Stone Street should be treated as
if they were A roads. Agreed that
Cllr Speakman would respond on behalf of Council.
15 MATTERS ARISING FROM APM.
15.1 Agreed to hold AGM before APM from 2010.
15.2 Windmill friends Group – unlikely to proceed.
15.3 Agreed that only a summary of reports presented at the APM would be
published on the web site.
16. FINANCE
16.1 16.1.1 The budget for 2009/10 was presented by
Cllr Stuart who went through each item. The budget was fully discussed and
accepted. Proposed Cllr Barber, seconded Cllr
Speakman. All agreed.
16.1.2 Accounts paid after the March meeting to end March 2009 to ensure that
all accounts were paid in the year in which they occurred were tabled:-
Parish Council a/c
Audit Commission 50% of audit
fee
69.00
S Carter Clerk
(April-Aug)
615.19 )
RFO
(Sep-March)
172.25 ) 892.52
Expenses
105.08 )
N Smith Clerk
(March)
92.68
Windmill a/c
Audit Commission 50% of audit
fee 69.00
G Poile Mill
Manager/Custodian 185.00 )
Expenses
32.00 ) 217.00
D Maxwell Field cutting
(fuel)
45.00
S Carter Mill Sec
(Sep-March) 107.92 )
Expenses
(mill)
91.09 ) 330.04
"
(museum)
131.03 )
Payment proposed Cllr Speakman, Seconded Cllr Barber. All agreed.
16.2 16.2.1 Accounts for payment:
Parish Council:
KALC subscriptions £222.16
ACRK subscriptions £ 35.00
CPRE subscriptions £ 29.00
Stelling Minnis Village Hall – hiring 2008/9 £ 59.00
Clerk (expenses, Salary April & May, Training course)
£302.53
Accounts to be paid - proposed Cllr Speakman, seconded Cllr
Day. All agreed.
16.2.2 Mrs S Carter (RFO) reported that the precept payment £3950 had been
received together with £14.21 interest from Alliance & Leicester Bank.
Insurance was discussed. 3 quotes from recommended companies had been received
– Sun Alliance (existing) £607.33 with an excess of £125. Norwich Union
(recommended by KALC) £485.59 with an excess of £250 or if a 3 year agreement
was made £461.31 fixed for 3 years. She also reported that Norwich Union
provided a higher age limit for helpers at the Windmill. Agreed take up the Norwich
Union 3 year fixed price offer at £461.31p Proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded
Cllr Barber. All agreed.
16.2.3 Donation of £200 to be made to Stelling Church for maintenance of the
closed graveyard. All other donations to be withheld until a request is received
and each debated at the time. Proposed Cllr Speakman,
seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
16.3 Mr Barlow (internal auditor) confirmed that end of year bank statement for
the Windmill accounts and a mini statement for the Parish Council accounts had
been seen, accounts had been reconciled and he had completed the audit return
in accordance with the regulations. Audit return was signed. It was agreed that
the end of year bank statements for all accounts must be guaranteed to be made
available at the end of March otherwise Council should change its bank. This to be an item on the next meeting agenda.
17. APPOINTMENT OF REPRESENTATIVES
17.1 KAPC/SDC Committees Cllrs Stuart & Speakman
17.2 SDC Planning users group: Cllr Stuart
17.3 Village Halls:
Bossingham: Cllr Day
Stelling Minnis: Cllr Barber
17.4 Transport and Highways Cllrs Smyth
17.5 Speedwatch: Cllr Speakman
17.6 Police Liaison Group: Cllr Speakman
17.7 Minnis Managers:
Trustee: Cllr Haffenden
PC Rep: Cllr Day
17.8 Windmill committee: Cllrs Barber & Speakman. 1 vacancy
17.9 Sports Facility: Cllrs Barber & Speakman
17.10 Youth Club Cllr Gifford
18 DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS
2009: 8th July, 2nd September, 4th November.
2010: 13th January, 3rd March. 5th May (Annual General
Meeting), 19th May (Annual Parish Meeting).
19. QUESTIONS
19.1 Cllr Day raised a question on behalf of a Parishioner about noise from
guns. Cllr Day to recommend that the Parishioner concerned keep a diary of the
noises and raise the matter with SDC environmental health department.
The meeting was then closed to the public at 10.12pm
The meeting was then re-opened to discuss the land
adjacent to St Bernadettes Cottage, which is now known as Meadow View. Cllr
Stuart (interest declared) outlined the current situation in that the land had
been sold and currently had a mobile home on site. Building work started by the
previous owner was being continued, however SDC enforcement officer was aware
and had taken steps to ensure that the work was consistent with that for a
stable block. There were no services on site other than a cesspool. SDC Cllr
Carr was liaising with Mr S Brown the SDC enforcement Officer and PC Trevor
Moody was also aware. Although Council was concerned about the possibility of
creeping development on the site they were satisfied that SDC had the situation
in hand. Cllr Day would contact the owners of St Bernadettes Cottage to update
them.
…………………….…………………………….. (Chairman)
……………………………………. (Date)
APPENDIX A
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
WRITTEN REPORTS FOR MEETING 13th May 2009
Report from Cllr Stuart:
KALC Shepway Area Committee 16th April 2009
attended by J Speakman and D Stuart
Future speaker – in July Shepway Volunteer Centre.
Shepway Sports Council to be disbanded and in May will become Shepway Sports
Network. It will cover the whole district and have control of funding and
grants (Perhaps of interest to our project).
Reminder – ask for details of Christmas refuse collection arrangements in time
for November magazines.
SDC Local Development Framework (plans for housing). First
draft of ideas where houses might go in Shepway to be available in May. Possibly a special meeting to brief KALC PC reps on May 14th?
Public consultation in July.
Joint Transportation Board (actually just KCC Highways liaison) Stone Street
work confirmed. Also the universally disliked Pipkin scheme
for prioritising work to be replaced but not for a year or so.
Standard Boards advice on need for PCs to have a procedure to standardise
handling complaints (Newsletter no.4 Feb 2009) was discussed. Matter to be returned to next time.
Items for next joint meeting with SDC :
State of public toilets
% of public renewing payment for compost bins
Standards Committee – misuse of complaints by the public and the cost. Also
views on need for PCs to have their own procedure (see above)
Development of Cluster working (jargon for cooperation between 3 councils
whereby one takes on a responsibility for all three e.g. Dover likely to do all
three payrolls – a trend for the future)
The Planning Users Group and the SDC - Parish Councils Joint Committee did not
meet in this period.
Reports from Cllr Barber:
Bossing ham Village Hall Sports Facility
The first meeting of this was held on 23rd April Jeremy Speakman and I are the
only representatives from Stelling Minnis so we are still looking for a rep
from the village. A number of people from Bossing ham attended. The Hall
already has pre existing planning permission for tennis courts on the land at
the back of the Hall However it is a few years old now and its planned to
develop a questionnaire to be sent to villagers of Bossingham and Stelling
Minnis (as well as local groups) to find out what they would like to see there
and importantly what they would actually use
Stelling Minnis Village Hall
The AGM was held on 16th March and a quarterly management committee meeting
followed .All Existing officers were reappointed. The Chair advised that the
Hall has achieved level 1 for the Hall Mark scheme. The issue concerning the
Hall appearing on the accounts of the Parish Council were discussed .The Chair
agreed to check with charity commissioners the best way forward and report
back. Revised terms and conditions of hire of the hall for use by the booking
clerk have been circulated. The accounts were signed off by the Committee A very successful themed dinner has since been held on 18th
April. A further date for the diary, the next fundraising event will be a
summer BBQ at the Village Hall on the 11th July all will be very welcome and details
concerning tickets will be available nearer the time.
The Windmill
The Mill is now open every Sunday afternoon and there have been some very busy
afternoons with lots of visitors A School visit took place on 27 April and 60
children enjoyed looking around. Another Group visit will take place on Sat, 9
May. The drawings for the extension of the museum have been agreed. Work will
commence on the building at the end of the season due to the numbers of people
visiting the mill and museum and health and safety concerns. Health and safety
and fire training is being arranged for the guides. Visitors to the mill are
now asked to wait for a guide to show them around Helpers are still required so
if you are interested in helping please contact Shelagh Carter or Cara Cooper
Report from Cllr Speakman:
Speedwatch report
Since the last PC meeting, Speedwatch operated 18 morning and evening sessions
between 16 - 27 March and 27 April – 8. On average 2-3 motorists were noted for
exceeding the speed limit per session and many of these are known to live
locally. On 28 April, PC Trevor Moody joined the afternoon session team who
were also very ably supported by Councillors Pam Carr and Susan Carey. Trevor
Moody stopped several motorists using a speed gun and his input was clearly
very effective in reinforcing the Speedwatch initiative. He has kindly offered
to undertake more sessions with us during the period that Stone Street is
closed when more traffic will be diverted through the village. Next scheduled
period of Speedwatch will be from 8-20 June
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING NOTES (LAST 2 MEETINGS ONLY)
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Approved MINUTES of ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 25th May 2011
Minutes under preparation
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL
Approved MINUTES of ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 26th May 2010
Present: Mr J
Haffenden (Chairman), KCC Cllr Ms S Carey, SDC Cllr Ms P Carr, Parish
Councillors: Mrs D Smyth, Mr D Stuart, Mr J Speakman, and Mr W Gifford, Mr D
Barlow (Parish Council Internal Auditor & Bossingham Village Hall), Mr G
Wright (Stelling Church), Mr J Gray (Stelling Minnis Primary School), Mrs C
Cooper (Windmill & Museum), Mr E Lewis (Historical Society), Mr K Smyth
(Minnis Managers), Mr J Hurdwell (Stelling Minnis Village Hall), Mr N Smith
((Parish News/Website and Clerk) also took the minutes.
1.0 APOLOGIES for absence received from: Parish Councillors Mrs A Day and Mrs P
Barber , PC Mr T Moody, Rev M Walker (Stelling & Upper Hardres Churches),
Rev G Boxer & Mrs E Holliday (Stelling Methodist Fellowship), Mr G Emans
(Church in the Hall), Mr C Gooch (Rep for owners of Stelling Minnis Common),
Mrs D Lowe (Footpath coordinator/Tree Warden), Mr M Jones (Youth Challenge
Group), Mrs A Fisher (Gardening Society), Mr S Hardman (Bossingham Cricket
Club), Mrs C Champion (Bossingham Youth Club), Mrs L Wright (Rainbow Guides),
Mrs S Carter (Windmill & Museum), Mr P Chatfield (NHW), Mrs M Blades (Friends
of Stelling Minnis School and Brownies), Mr A Wood (Youth Challenge),
2.0 THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 22nd April 2009 were
approved, and signed. (Proposed Cllr D Stuart, seconded Cllr D Smyth)
3.0 PARISH COUNCIL CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Cllr Haffenden welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending. He said that
the Parish Council had processed 22 planning applications during the year to
April 2010. Two of the applications were for developments beyond the Parish
Council boundary but which the Parish Council had been asked to give an opinion
on.
6 Parish Council meetings had been held plus two additional meetings with KCC
Highways regarding Grass Cutting at the junction of Stone Street/Curtis Lane
and the Stone Street flood relief works.
The Clerk had attended a Clerks training day and a KCC Highways training
session on the New Highways fault reporting portal. 2 Cllrs & Clerk
attended KCC Commons and Village Greens seminar. Councillors have attended a
wide range of meetings on subjects which might have an impact on the Parish.
These are reported at the following Parish Council meeting, the minutes of
which are displayed both on the notice board opposite the shop and also on the
Parish Council page on the Village web site. Every month, as Chairman, he wrote
article in The Hardres-Stelling news outlining work being done on your behalf
by Parish Council.
Our costs in respect of printer ink and paper have increased as more
information for dissemination to Councillors is being received by e-mail. As
not all Cllrs have e-mail facilities this has to be printed and circulated.
Parish Council no longer have any direct involvement in the windmill since the
Stelling Minnis Windmill and Museum Trust was set up in March 2010.
The Notice board opposite the shop is in need of some attention and Council
will decide what action to take this year. Perhaps a competent individual may
volunteer to carry out the work. He then thanked various individuals for the
work they had done for the Council over the year including David Barlow as
Internal Auditor and Shelagh Carter for her work as Responsible Finance
Officer.
4.0 THE PARISH COUNCIL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS for year ended 31.3.10 were
circulated and accepted. (Proposed Mr D Stuart,
seconded Mr J Hurdwell).
5.0 TO RECEIVE REPORTS
5.1 Kent County Council. Susan Carey thanked everyone
for re-electing her on 4th June 2009 for a second term as their County
Councillor. The Elham Valley had the second highest turnout of voters in Kent
at 44% and she was elected with 3,519 votes and a majority of 2,265.
She reported on finances and the need to achieve savings by investing in newer
and better ways of delivering services. The 2.1% council tax increase on 1st
April was the lowest ever council tax rise for KCC. KCC is one of the leading
councils in generating income, led by its Commercial Services arm. This is a
highly effective business, providing services not only for KCC but many other councils across the country, thereby reducing overall costs.
Income generation brings in around £7m a year which keeps council tax down.
Spending on Children’s Services have increased by over 20%. We have put extra
money into the Children’s Services budget but the real problem is the lack of
social workers so we have been recruiting from overseas as well as working with
two of Kent’s universities to train more local people for these roles. Last
year ended on a high note, with KCC confirmed as ‘performing excellently’ by
the Audit Commission - one of only three Counties to achieve this rating.
On the important topic of highways I am well aware that our roads are in need
of repair. The exceptionally hard winter has made matters worse and KCC has
pledged over £1 million from our bad weather reserves towards a major blitz on
potholes. Kent has also been allocated £2.4 million extra money for road
repairs by the government. She asked that people keep reporting all potholes as
there is sufficient money to fill every pothole on all
the roads however minor.
Looking ahead, John Simmonds my neighbouring county Councillor and I are
planning to allocate grants of around £16,000 towards the cost of the sports
project for the communities of Stelling Minnis and Upper Hardres later this
year.
5.2 Shepway District Council. Pam Carr reported that
after the general election, as a council we have yet to see how things will pan
out now we have a new Government.
We are aware that the Conservatives stated that Council Tax will be frozen for
2 years. They are also hot on empowerment to the people.
Shared Services - after many meetings Shepway decided not to join Canterbury,
Thanet and Dover totally as we felt the plans would not achieve value for money
for our tax payers. We will share some services with them however, but explore
other options.
Customer Services - my team and I have totally altered the way our residents
contact us, make payments and get advice within Shepway. We are also changing
the Reception area and Contact Centre to make it more user
friendly. We also continue to improve the IT systems and at present, the
website
Ward Councillor. I have the best ward in Shepway, and a lot of help I give to
residents is confidential. I also get involved with planning issues both in
Stelling Minnis and Elham
Lydd Airport. I was only one of 10 councillors who voted against it as I do not
think planes and birds mix. The planning result will go to the Secretary of
State on 11th June and we will then know the next move.
Local Elections. I have enjoyed the last 3 years, both
as a ward councillor and Cabinet member. The next elections will be in May next
year and I hope to be able to stand again.
5.3 Community Police. PCSO Michelle Brady reported that crime was down although
there had been a few burglaries. Some leaflets on crime prevention would be
made available for collection from Stelling Minnis Stores. There would be a
continuing visible presence from both her and PC Trevor Moody.
5.4 Minnis Managers. Kevin Smyth reported that this has again been a very
eventful year on the Minnis. The "time limited fence" is working
effectively and no issues have been recorded since the early problems. The
cattle continue to assist in the eradication of the bracken. This will be a
relatively slow process but will improve the flora and fauna on the Minnis. New
areas of gorse have been noted and our Acid Grassland is now considered one of
the best in Kent and ever increasing numbers of Dormice have been recorded on
the Minnis. Two areas in the southern section of the Minnis were cleared
through the winter months to improve access for walkers and visitors alike. It
is in the plan to clear a small section of "overgrown areas" as a
management process each year. It is not however the intention to clear vast
areas as this would damage the protected habitats for wildlife. The areas around
the ponds have been cleared and are starting to improve; more work will be done
to improve the ponds later in the year. Hay will be taken from areas outside
the fencing and we will be continuing the grass cutting opposite the shop three
times this year. As last year we will not be cutting grass on the Minnis prior
to Haymaking.
The sheep continue to graze the areas off Bossingham Road and Curtis Lane. The
Owners and Managers would like to express their sincere thanks for all of those
volunteers (FOSM) who gave up a significant part of their Saturdays helping
with the clearing parties. It is noted that the numbers of these volunteers has
grown significantly over the past year.
5.5 Stelling Minnis Primary School. John Gray reported
that there were currently 99 children on roll, the largest for some time, and
anticipated a full intake of children in the Reception class in September. The
focus as a school continues to be about giving the children the basic skills of
reading, writing and maths, in an atmosphere that makes it fun and enjoyable to
learn. The other subjects are therefore combined in a cross curricular and
creative way. We have held a creative week, a maths week, a book week as well
as lots of special learning days. New projects for this year include a djembe
drumming club, as well a lots of sporting activities and events. We appreciate
the support of members of the community in running clubs and helping in class.
The school offers a Breakfast Club and an After School Club, which we now run
ourselves. This means that we can offer parents 8am-6pm childcare cover if it
is necessary for them. We are continuing to supporting Bossingham Pre School in
their attempts to get a purpose-built building put up on the school site and
hope that this will become a reality soon. We are pleased with the new school
car park. It has significantly reduced the congestion of cars outside school at
peak times, and has made it safer for the children at the beginning and end of
the day.
We have links with members of the community, including strong links with the
church, but if anyone has any ideas about how we could support the community or
be more involved, then do please contact us. As part of our recent school
improvement plan we have included looking into what it would involve to get the
clock working again. Any help or advice would be welcome. He concluded by
thanking everyone for their support.
5.6 FOSM. Dagmar Smyth reported that over the winter months it had been good to
see so many people turning out to help, at times there have been more than 20
volunteers, coming from the local community, FOSM members and the Stelling
Challenge DofE group. A huge amount has been achieved over this period, mainly
on improving the public access along existing tracks, whilst at the same time
allowing younger scrub to develop. This in turn helps the wildlife and
biodiversity of the area. Thank you to all involved.
Over the summer, plans will be made for next seasons work-parties. Funding has
recently been received from Grassroots Grants through the Kent Community
Foundation to replace the hay turner used on the Minnis. Free membership of
FOSM is always available to anybody who wishes to show moral support, or become
more involved with the work-parties. Increased membership is also useful when
applying for grant aid.
5.7 Parish Churches (Stelling & Upper Hardres).
Geoff Wright reported on behalf of Rev Margi Walker. This last year has been
challenging for both churches. He paid tribute to Betty Lenche’s services as
organist at Upper Hardres for over 30 years. Both churches continue with
children and young peoples work and to that end Stelling Church has been
working with the Church in the Hall to run a youth group. Good links with
Stelling Minnis School continued. In July, Margi visited African International
Churches Ministry in SW Uganda and took with her over £3,000 raised through
churches, schools and communities for the BATWA people. In November Bishop
Michael Turnbull visited the parish.
5.8 Methodist Fellowship. Eunice Holliday provided a written report. The
congregation has increased with 3 new people attending. We welcomed a new
Superintendent Minister – Rev’d Geoff Boxer.
5.9 Church in the Hall. Gillian Emans provided a written report. The Church in
the Hall meets every Sunday in Bossingham Village Hall at 9.30am. Our worship
is informal and relaxed with our teaching being Bible based and Spirit led. We
support a wide range of local, national and overseas missions and have regular
speakers who have worked all over the world. We try to get involved in all
aspects of village life and have recently participated in a 6-week Lent Course
with other churches.
5.10 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Johnathan Hurdwell
reported that the Stelling Minnis Village Hall Community Trust committee continued
to run the hall, which cost £3.5K a year to run and maintain. This sum is
generated by hiring the hall out and organising 3 fund raising events each
year. Ivor Champion carries out most of the hall maintenance, which this year
included dealing with a spate of graffiti. He then paid tribute to the
committee (Kevin Smyth, Berlinda Lewis, Maxine Blades, Ivor Champion and Eunice
Holliday) and concluded by urging the community to support the halls fund
raising events.
5.11 Bossingham Village Hall. David Barlow provided a
written report. In the last year refurbishment work at the hall included the
kitchen which was also provided with a larger cooker and a dishwasher. Two
successful fund raising events had been held and Upper Hardres Parish Council
continues to provide excellent support. Progress is being made towards being
granted charitable status.
5.12 Windmill Museum. Cara Cooper reported that
2009/10 had been a memorable year for the Mill and Museum. The sudden passing
of George Poile who was integral to the running of the Mill and a founding
member of the Mill & Museum committee was deeply felt by all who were
involved in not only the mill but the village itself. We have become the
Stelling Minnis Mill and Museum Trust after we (Shelagh Carter did most of the
work) satisfied councils and solicitors that all was open and transparent. The
Trust runs the mill for KCC and the museum itself. KCC are still responsible
for the day to day management of the mill, the trust act on their behalf. The
museum extension is nearing its final stages of completion. Visitor numbers
increased to 1430 adults and 278 children, a number of schools and group visits
helped raise the numbers. Once again cream teas have been a success, the
profits from which are used for the day to day running and administration for
the museum. In the coming years we estimate that £1500 will be required for
maintenance and insurance of the museum. The museum extension was funded with
monies from the windmill fete.
5.13 Neighbourhood Watch. Pam Chatfield provided a written report. This year
has been a quiet one regarding crime. Kent police say that they still fully
support us and neighbourhood policing. I have acquired some metal NHW signs to
replace the plastic ones which are so easily damaged.
5.14 Footpath and Tree Warden. Derry Lowe provided a written report. Footpaths
in Stelling Minnis/Bossingham are in good order. There have been a couple of
issues relating to stiles and gates which I have reported to the landowner or
Public Rights Of Way team which are being dealt with satisfactorily.
With regard to trees, I am always on the lookout for old, ancient or veteran
trees in the area which I measure and record details to input into the Woodland
Trust website. Trees and dormice go together. I have gained a dormice handling
licence and have put up approximately 30 nesting boxes around the Minnis. Boxes
are maintained from April to October and 9 dormice have been found. It proves
that dormice are around and surviving quite happily on the Minnis.
5.15 Hardres-Stelling News and Stelling Minnis Web Site. Nick Smith reported
that the Parish Magazine was run for the community by 3 people on a not for
profit basis. Printing costs being covered by advertising and a small annual
subscription. The magazine was entered into the Parish Magazine of the year
competition and gained 20th place out of 410 entries. The children’s Christmas
front cover competition was again judged by the Stelling Minnis Art Group. Ann
Day handles advertising and the accounts, Margaret Crawford handles
distribution.
The web site is owned by Stelling Minnis Parish Council. Last year there were
around 4000 hits on the site, which I hope continues to meet the needs of the
community. No costs are involved in respect of the web site thanks to the
continuing free hosting by Simon Wood of Terrabyte Computing.
5.16 The Hundred David Barlow provided a written report. During 2009 The
Hundred provided a mix of events and activities – talks, walks and shows, the
last of which attracted audiences from the wider East Kent community. The talks
programme covered a wide variety of subjects, whilst the walks were, organised
monthly in Autumn and Winter with the most popular being the one on Boxing day.
The shows group continue to achieve its aim of staging live entertainment to
suit different tastes ad age groups, with a very successful Christmas show
included in the programme. The Hundred encourages and would very much welcome residents from local communities to become new
members.
5.17 Historical Society. Ed Lewis reported that the Society had an exciting
year and membership has begun to increase. David McDine had become the new
Honary President and I had been asked to take up the reigns again as Chairman.
Thanks go to Jenny Morgan and the rest of the committee for all their hard work
in keeping things together so that the society is now in a healthy state with
the support to build on. Amongst the ongoing projects is researching the
history of some of the interesting properties in the area together with an
extension to the “tube map” produced by the DofE volunteers 2-3 years ago.
Visits ad exhibitions have been arranged and several members attended a course
on researching church graveyards at which some of the material from the
Societies own records was used. In July there will be a talk by Derek Boughton
on the history of Stelling Minnis. The society contributes regular articles for
the Parish Magazine and will continue to exhibit at the Windmill Fete. The
obelisks erected in two places on the Minnis will hold the two restored former
Minnis Gates.
5.18 Friends of Stelling Minnis School. Maxine Blades provided a written
report. All families of the children attending the school are automatically
members of the Friends whose aim is to provide additional funding for projects
at the school by running a number of fund raising events. Approx £4000 is
raised each year.
5.19 – Bossingham Youth Club. Wayne Gifford reported
on behalf of Claire Champion. The youth club is now in its 4th year of
independent running. The 44 members from all villages are aged 10-16. Sessions
are held on 1st and 3rd Friday of the month in term time/ Thanks do to Stelling
Minnis and Upper Hardres Parish Councils who together with Bossingham Village
Hall have enabled us to keep our membership rates to a minimum for the
youngsters.
5.20 – Youth Challenge Group. Ann Wood provided a
written report. The group is now in its 10th year and continues to grow. We
have 54 members who are all enrolled into the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
12 are starting the scheme at bronze level, 23 are in their first year silver
with 19 in the 2nd year. 4 silver award holders are hoping to start the gold
award. We were extremely sorry to lose Martin Jones as leader after he had done
an amazing job to start the group and run it for 9 years. His encouragement and
fund raising efforts to facilitate the purchase of equipment has given young
people the opportunity to try new activities has been greatly appreciated by
all.
5.21 1st Bossingham Brownies. Maxine Blades provided a written report. The
Brownies continues to thrive with an average of 30 girls during the year. We
meet every Thursday during term time ad work on many different activities
including outdoor ones on the Minnis. Our activities last year included a pack
holiday to Broadstairs, helping with the Windmill teas as well as arts, crafts,
badges and sing songs that we do in our weekly meetings.
5.22 Stelling Minnis Art Group. Dagmar Smyth reported that a group of 12
artists meet every Monday (10-1) and will be exhibiting at Bourne Gallery,
Bekesbourne as well as the Windmill Fete. The main exhibition will be in
Stelling Minnis Village Hall in November.
5.23 Bossingham Cricket Club. Steve Hardman provided a
written report. The club has a good nucleus of players, but always needs more
regulars. Funds are tight but our income usually covers maintenance of the
grounds and machinery. We always struggle to afford capital projects. Both
pavilion and sight screens will need replacing in the foreseeable future.
6. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
There being no further business, the Chairman thanked
everyone for attending. Meeting closed at 9.00pm.
WINDMILL SUB COMMITTEE MINUTES: Jan 2008 March 2009 April 2009 September 2009
NOTES of WINDMILL & MUSEUM
COMMITTEE MEETING
held on Sunday, 27 September 2009 at 5pm
at the Windmill Museum
Present:
Cara Cooper, Barry Thwaites, George Poile, Barry Cox, Pippa Barber, Jeremy
Speakman, Jenny Morgan, Margaret & John Leach and Shelagh Carter
1. 2009 SEASON
There had been an increased number of special group and school visits this year
which had generated more income for both the Mill (£1,372) and Museum (£2,832).
All agreed a “thank you” gathering should be arranged for helpers and guides,
SC offered to host again.
2. SIGNS
2.1 Jeremy will speak to ARC Creative Design, Folkestone about new Mill Lane
and entrance signs, and will ask if they would be able to help with captions
for displays and exhibits. Jenny asked if JS could also enquire about
Historical Society signs for their renovated gates.
2.2 If “sandwich-board” signs (Barry T provided info at the last meeting) are
used, these would need to be secured into the ground and easily removed at the
end of the afternoon.
2.3 SC had previously obtained info from KCC about Brown Country Tour signs for
the Stone Street signpost – at that time, an application fee of £185 was
required and, if approved, a sign would cost in the region of £700.
3. FRIENDS GROUP
3.1 Jeremy and Pippa reported that the Parish Council are in full agreement
with the Committee’s proposal that they be established as an independent
Friends Group and take over ownership of the Museum and management of the Mill.
3.2 SC to deal with Items 3.1 – 3.4 from meeting on 9.8.09
3.3 General discussion on start-up costs and anticipated annual costs of
running the Museum – paying legal fees for the additional land, Charitable
Trust Deed, insurances, rates, electricity, allowing for changes in
regulations, building maintenance fund, advertising and publicity, etc. It was
felt that a contingency fund of £10,000 would be required.
Funds will also be needed for sorting out problems with drainage/cesspool and,
as previously discussed, built-in display cabinets, suggested specialists
employed to set up the Museum, purchase of other equipment (freezer, microwave,
etc), improving wheelchair access from car parking area and moving of
electricity pole.
4. MUSEUM EXTENSION
4.1 A revised deadline of 25th September had been given to all the contractors
suggested at the last meeting, and 4 quotations had been received:-
Kevin Hafner Period Restorations, Stelling Minnis 23,494.50
Bob the Builder, Ramsgate 28,864.04
S.A. Jones Ltd., Folkestone 34,531.80
Kevin Knowles, Misling 53,250.00
Following discussion, it was agreed that Kevin Hafner was the preferred
contractor (proposed Barry Thwaites, seconded Cara Cooper – all in favour). SC to speak to Kevin to see if any savings can be made, and if
members could assist with any of the work.
4.2 SC outlined approximate funds in hand for extension. 2009 figures have not
been added as accounts have not yet been verified:-
Museum Funds held by Parish Council 6,939.51
SMWMCF (Fete) 20,258.58
£27,198.09
5. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – Monday, 9th November at 8pm at Cara’s
(Swallows Rest, Bossingham Road)
Note: Monday was the agreed day, but incorrectly calculated as 11th November.
NOTES of WINDMILL &
MUSEUM COMMITTEE MEETING
held on Sunday, 5th April 2009
at the Windmill Museum
Present: Cara Cooper, Barry Thwaites, George Poile, David
McDine, Barry Cox, Jenny Morgan, Pippa Barber and Shelagh Carter
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE received from Jeremy Speakman, John & Margaret
Leach.
2. NOTES OF MEETING held on 15th March were accepted as a true record.
3. MUSEUM EXTENSION
3.1 Acquisition of land: nothing further to report.
3.2 Internal Layout: Graham had prepared an amended drawing. It was agreed that
the double door to front of new extension should be altered to a window, and
that access to the storage area is by a single door in the new extension and a
double door in existing. All doors to be solid wood so that displays can be
mounted on these, if required. Members wished to thank Graham for preparing
further drawings, and for his advice and patience.
3.3 Timescale for construction: for the safety of visitors, it was agreed to
delay the commencement date until the end of the season. Preparation of teas
would also be a problem whilst building work is taking place. As September is
usually quiet, and with the shortage of guides, it was felt that the season
could close after the National Heritage week-end and building works commence on
14th September.
3.4 List of tenderers: It was agreed that Shelagh approach local contractors
only.
Tenders to be received by 1st July for consideration at next
meeting.
4. HEALTH & SAFETY:
Preferred days for H&S and Fire training are Monday or Wednesday evening or
week-ends. Shelagh to contact Allan at KCC. Shelagh to provide a sign in the Mill asking visitors to wait for a
guide.
5. GUIDANCE NOTES FOR VOLUNTEERS – No additions required for Windmill guides. Museum helpers to ensure that the toilet door is left open at the
end of the afternoon.
6. REPORT FOR ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – 22nd April 2009
Cara will present report for the Museum and George for the Windmill.
7. DATE OF NEXT MEETING - SUNDAY, 19th JULY at 12 noon.
NOTES of WINDMILL &
MUSEUM COMMITTEE MEETING
held on Sunday, 15th March 2009
at the Windmill Museum
Present: Barry
Thwaites, George Poile, David McDine, Barry Cox, Jeremy Speakman, Jenny Morgan,
Margaret & John Leach, Pippa Barber and Shelagh Carter
In attendance: Graham Carter (planning consultant, Item 3.2, part-time)
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE received from Cara Cooper, and non-committee members -
Allan Cox (KCC) and Ivor Champion (re: Item 3.1)
No-one had heard from Wayne Gifford or Paul Jarvis.
2. TO APPOINT OFFICERS – (proposed Margaret Leach, seconded Barry Cox)
2.1 Chairman: Cara Cooper
2.2 Vice Chairman: Barry Thwaites
2.3 Secretary: Shelagh Carter
3. MUSEUM EXTENSION
3.1 Acquisition of land: SDC have granted planning permission for an extension.
The land the Museum stands on is owned by KCC, in many ways it would be simpler
if the additional land is also owned by them. This needs to be agreed with Ivor
and KCC. Shelagh suggested that as Ivor is donating the additional land, the
Museum pay for any legal costs he incurs – no objections. Ivor and Graham will
peg out the proposed extension, George felt a
temporary fence should then be erected so that building work is contained
within the site.
3.2 Internal Layout: Storage for exhibits, so that displays can be changed
periodically, is required and, if possible, storage for plastic tables and
chairs. David suggested that the extended display area could also include
information on the village. Margaret and Jenny asked if it would be possible to
have the toilet elsewhere, away from the seating area. Meeting then briefly
adjourned to measure the rear sloping roof to assess space/height available.
Graham advised that a toilet in the rear extension would not comply with the
latest regulations. All agreed to leave the toilet in situ. It was felt that
screening in front of the toilet could make wheelchair access difficult, and
would also detract from the oven painted on the wall and the shop. The
extension will provide more space for seating away from the toilet area. Graham
will provide an internal layout plan for the next meeting. Built-in display
units would be preferable to the existing cabinets. It was agreed to find a new
home for the 6’ rectangular table, possibly in the Mill.
3.3 Timescale for construction: to be discussed at next meeting.
3.4 List of tenderers: to be decided at next meeting.
4. INSURANCE:
This was raised with Allan Cox at a Kent Windmills Meeting on 7th March 2009
(Item 5) – Shelagh gave a copy of the minutes to members for their information.
Allan had also sent through a copy of the KCC Insurance schedule.
5. HEALTH & SAFETY:
KCC will arrange training days for Health & Safety and Fire Regulations at
individual Mills. Committee to agree some dates at next
meeting. George advised that Allan had inspected the replacement belt
housing and the rotted balcony upright post that he had recently repaired. A
fire inspection was carried out 3 months ago. Shelagh to confirm with Allan
that George can provide training for operating the machinery in the Mill.
6. 2009 SEASON
6.1 Windmill Guide Rota – Jeremy will organise guides. For H&S reasons, TWO
guides are required for each opening. There are 30 dates to fill (8 less than
last year), plus several group visits already booked. Everyone was asked to try
and recruit new guides for the Mill, and also Museum helpers
6.2 Museum Helpers Rota – Jenny will contact last year’s helpers. Two helpers
at least are required each week. Shelagh will then draw up the Rota and
circulate to volunteers, etc.
6.3 Sales Items – sufficient supplies in stock for this year. More badges may
be required.
6.4 Cream Teas – discussion on possibly increase. Decided to
leave at £2.50, £2.00 for those who didn’t want jam/cream, and £1 for pot of
tea/cup of coffee. Plain scone would be £1.
6.5 Exhibits – George and Jeremy will do information labels for exhibits
6.6 Advertising – Shelagh to arrange advertisement in KMG What’s
On Guide and the Herald/Adscene Group papers. Jeremy will do a Press Release
for radio stations and local papers. Kent Windmills/Stelling Minnis mill
leaflets – Jenny will take some to Sibton Park; Barry T will circulate in
Barham and John will take to local pubs. It was felt copies could also go to
local B&B’s, Caravan Parks, camp sites, etc.
6.7 Road signs – Barry T will re-paint the Mill Lane sign. Shelagh
to press Allan about providing a brown tourism sign on Stone Street.
6.8 Cleaning working party – agreed this would follow on after the next
meeting. Mill has been swept.
6.9 Guidance notes for volunteers – copies of last year’s notes circulated for
comments/additions at next meeting.
7. REPORT FOR ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – deferred to next meeting.
8. DATE OF NEXT MEETING
Sunday, 5th April at 10am. (to be followed by a
cleaning working party)
NOTES of WINDMILL & MUSEUM
COMMITTEE MEETING
held on Wednesday, 16 January 2008
at Stelling Minnis Village Hall
Present: George Poile,
David McDine, Shelagh Carter, Barry Cox, Barry Thwaites, Wayne Gifford, Jeremy
Speakman, Cara Cooper, Jenny Morgan, Margaret & John Leach.
In attendance: Bob Horn, David Maxwell
1. APOLOGIES - Paul Jarvis, Allan Cox (KCC), Pippa Barber
2. TO APPOINT OFFICERS – (proposed George, seconded Jeremy)
2.1 Chairman: Cara Cooper
2.2 Vice Chairman: Barry Thwaites
2.3 Secretary: Shelagh Carter
Everyone supported David McDine in thanking George, as outgoing Chairman, for
all the work he has done, and continues to do, looking after the Windmill and
Museum.
3. 2008 SEASON – OPENING (Sunday, 23 March)
3.1 Rota: 33 dates to fill. All members asked to find at least one additional
helper and one guide for the next meeting. Cara will speak to Helen &
Martin Hart. Shelagh will put a request in parish magazine and web site with
Open Days on two Sundays - March 9 and 16 at 2pm.
3.2 Training – George happy to train guides, plus video/dvd and volunteer
manual available. George will speak to Allan Cox about a Health & Safety
“refresher” day for guides.
3.3 Refreshments – Cream Teas to be provided. Any increase in charge should be
minimal. John happy to provide scones, Shelagh as back-up.
Shelagh will arrange for SDC Environmental Health to inspect home kitchens.
3.4 Kitchen area
Cara/Shelagh to speak to Nigel Phillips about plumbing in additional sink, new
water heater, checking hot water dispenser in WC, additional cupboards and
moving base units by door. Jenny, John, Cara and Shelagh to attend Food & Hygiene
course – Shelagh to organise.
3.5 Exhibits – George and Jeremy will prepare a register and information
captions. Contents are insured for £5,000 - Shelagh to arrange for a specialist
to inspect the exhibits. David Maxwell advised that Dennis Andrews, who had
donated many of the exhibits, had recently died.
3.6 Sales Items and other purchases – Smaller items could be considered,
Shelagh to obtain a catalogue. David will photocopy 50 sets of the colouring
sheets.
3.7 Key holders, padlocks & keys – it was agreed that the 4 padlocks should
be changed and that keys be obtained for George, Barry C, Barry T, John, Cara,
Shelagh, Paul and one for the tin. It was queried whether this number of
keyholders would be acceptable to the insurers.
3.8 Windmill maintenance/safety items and field – George will check the
Windmill, and replace the door opening catches to the Museum. Paving slabs need
to be re-laid and paths weeded. George will contact Kim Goddard about cutting
hedges. David Maxwell willing to cut grass but with change in type of fuel he
can now use, this is likely to cost £5 per cut.
3.9 Cleaning Working Party – Sunday 9th and 16th March at 12 noon. Jenny
suggested a regular cleaning rota throughout the season.
3.10 Road Signs, etc – new road sign needed at end of Mill Lane. Shelagh to ask Allan if KCC can provide, also a brown tourist sign
for Stone Street, and ascertain cost if necessary.
3.11 Advertising and Publicity – Barry Cox will contact local TV stations. Shelagh to put entry in the Gazette’s Events listing. Jeremy
will do a press release for local papers, etc.
3.12 Any additional items – plastic donation box in Mill not suitable. It was
understood there was a wooden donation box in the Museum. If so, George will
fix this on the entrance shelf in the Mill.
4. MUSEUM
4.1 Extension and acquisition of additional land - Requirements and previous
plans were considered. It was decided to look at this again when at the Mill on
16th March. Ivor to be asked to come along.
4.2 Objectives for the future – the discussion document prepared by David
Stuart was tabled for consideration at a future
meeting.
4.3 Windmill Fete (provisional date 19 July 2008)¬ –
Shelagh felt this may not happen in 2008 unless more helpers could be found,
and asked if the Windmill Committee would be able to organise the Fete, if
necessary. Await outcome of public Fete meeting on Tuesday, 12 February. David
will speak to Amanda about publicising this meeting, etc.
5. WINDMILL & MUSEUM
5.1 To explore support for formation of a Friends Society
– to be considered at a future meeting. An article the parish magazine and
local paper, together with our report at the Annual Parish Meeting, may help
establish interest.
5.2 Report for Annual Parish Meeting (16 April 2008) – Cara will present this.
5.3 Kent Windmills Group – committee members – approximately 4 meetings a year.
This Group also obtain combined sales items such as mugs, tea towels,
teaspoons, etc. George, Shelagh, Barry Thwaites and Barry Cox
to represent SM Mill.
6. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
6.1 Calendar – allocation of proceeds to local charities. Canterbury
Hospice and the Windmill.
7. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, 11th March at 7.30pm
ADDENDUM – following Open Days, agreed meeting on 11th March not required.
Page designed and produced for Stelling Minnis Parish Council by Nick Smith - 2 August 2002
Updated 28 December 2011
Web site url and hosting facilities provided by Simon Wood of Terabyte Computing Ltd( www.terabyte-computing.com)
e-mail: simonw@terabyte-computing.com