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Minutes
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 25th January 2010, at 7.15 p.m.
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias. (Rugby Borough Councillor)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Mrs. Hartshorn declared an interest in Item 8, Planning Application Ref. No. R10/0002/PALB.
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) Crematorium: Mr. Collins reported that R.B.C. was going ahead with its plan to build a Crematorium on Onley Lane near Barby.
B) Gypsy Site on Smeaton Lane: Mr. Gillias reported that this application would not be discussed at the Planning Committee Meeting on 27th January. Owing to the bad weather some site meetings in the Borough had been postponed, so all discussions on applications were being postponed. This application would probably be discussed in February. The case officers are expected to recommend refusal. The applicants are very likely to appeal if the plans are refused.
C) The Clerk said that in December 2009, R.B.C. agreed to supply and erect 2 signs warning of a penalty for dog fouling. Earlier in the day the Clerk had telephoned R.B.C. to find out when the signs would be erected and had been told that the signs were ready but they were awaiting the fixtures and fittings for them. When all the equipment was ready R.B.C. will contact the P.C. for instructions on where exactly the signs should be situated.
D) Mr. Vallance said that the new tarmac laid at the end of Lodge Farm drive in December, to prevent surface flooding, was already cracking and breaking. The Clerk was asked to report the fault to W.C.C. Mr. Baxter said he had noticed a pothole in the road outside the Village Hall, and asked the Clerk to report that fault as well.
E) Mr Collins reported that the Feasibility Study of the B4027 through S.U.F. has not been discussed by W.C.C. Rugby Area Committee yet. The Cabinet still have to decide on the Transport Budget for 2010/11. There is to be a seminar in March where the Capital Programme for Transport 2010/11, including the Safety and Maintenance Budget for the Rugby Area 2010/11, will be decided. The P.C. will probably hear in May whether the scheme has been approved.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Mr. Gillias said that R.B.C. would like P.Cs. to submit suggestions for its Overview and Scrutiny Review - is there is a local concern that a task force should be looking at?
Mr. Gillias reported that Neil Campbell is stepping down as a Borough Councillor for the Fosse Area. A new R.B.Councillor is needed to represent this rural area, to stand up for rural people. Mr. Gillias urged Councillors to encourage suitable people to stand for election.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) Warks. Rural Housing Association: - a copy of the association’s Annual Report for 2008-09.
B) Avon Mill Roundabout:- W.C.C’s. reply to Clerk’s e-mail re traffic in Leicester Road going in right hand lane and round the roundabout instead of staying in left hand lane to go towards town centre: improvements to the signing are due to be made as part of the works linked to the Rugby Western Relief Road.
C) Warks. Rural Community Council: - Wark’s Best Village Competition 2010 – entrants invited. S.U.F. will not enter.
D) R.B.C. Overview and Scrutiny Review: P.C. asked to suggest issues of local concern that would benefit from a detailed review - a small cross-party task group of Councillors will gather a range of evidence in order to make recommendations for change and improvement to the Council’s Cabinet. No ideas were discussed. However, a few days later Mrs. Hartshorn had the idea that a weight restriction on vehicles using B roads would stop H.G.Vs. travelling through the village. This would improve the quality of life for the community and stop further structural damage to houses on the roadside. The Clerk offered to make enquiries as to whether this suggestion was the type of topic R.B.C.would investigate.
E) W.C.C. Local Transport plan 3: an update on how the preparation of the Local transport Plan is progressing and how the public can help influence the contents of the final plan.
F) Signage on M6 to Magna Park and Ansty Park to reduce H.G.Vs. through villages:- Neil Campbell had asked the Clerk to write to Elizabeth Davis, Route Performance Manager, Highway Agency about the problems caused without such signage. A reply from E. Davis states that The Highway Agency is responsible for trunk roads and motorways and the Local Highways Authority is responsible for the B4027. However, she will raise this issue with Coventry County Council and will advise the P.C. in due course.
G) W.C.C. Review of Locality Forums: a draft terms of reference for the review and a suggested list of key issues to be addressed. The Council’s response to any of the key issues or any other issues it wishes to raise in relation to the Locality Forums would be welcome. No response to be made.
H) R.B.C. Local Development Framework: Submission of the Rugby Borough Core Strategy. The Core Strategy has been submitted to the Secretary of State for independent examination. Copies of the documents are available for inspection. The next stage in the process is the Pre Hearing Meeting (PHM) followed by Hearing Sessions. Details of these meeting will be sent later. Mr. Smith took home the accompanying CD to listen to.
PLANNING
A) R09/0419/PLN: Lanny’s Lagoon: Application to use land for the sighting of a mobile home. Notification that Mr. Lanwarne has appealed to The Secretary of State for the Environment to overturn R.B.C’s. refusal of this development.
B) R09/0870/ELOH: Pumping Station near Oak Tree Cottages: Application to remove high voltage75m span 3 conductor line, 1 no. LV line and 2 no. HV lines, and erection of 1 no. pole under existing HV line, 2 no. new LV poles and 1 no. new span of LV ABC conductor, and 1 new LV pole under existing LV line. R.B.C. has no objections to this development.
C) R10/0002/PALB: The Old Forge: Application for change of use of existing storage building to Class D1 and A1 (retail – art gallery), retrospective. The P.C. is in favour of this application being approved and asked the Clerk to write to R.B.C. supporting this change of use.
FINANCE
A) Bank Balance: On 25/01/10 the Bank Balance was £733.19.
B) Eon Street Lighting Maintenance Charges: From 1/04/10 the new total quarterly invoice for maintenance will be £64.48 excluding V.A.T..
C) Precept: An acknowledgement from R.B.C. regarding the precept request for 2010/11. The increase will be met by around an extra £7 per year from each Band D equivalent property.
D) Council Tax Base 2010/11: For Stretton Under Fosse Parish Council the Tax Base will be 94.33.
E) Payments: Since the last meeting the following cheques had been authorised:-
No.232 to Eon £85.93 for quarterly supply
No.233 to Eon £75.26 for quarterly maintenance
At the meeting the following cheques were authorised:-
No. 234 to Mrs. S. J. Hall £429.57 for half annual salary
No. 235 to Mrs. S. J. Hall £15.40 for annual expenses.
ANY OTHER URGENT BUSINESS
Annual Litter Pick: Mr. Collins said that the Council should set a date for this year’s litter pick A.S.A.P. if it is to be advertised in the March edition of “Round the Revel”. The date was set for Sunday 21st March. The Clerk offered to ask R.B.C. for gloves, picking sticks and bags to use on that day. The Clerk offered to write an advert to put in the magazine.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: The implementation of the Parish Plan.
The date for the next meeting was set for 8th March 2010.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 pm.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 23rd November 2009, at 7.15p.m.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) B.T. Payphones Adopt a Kiosk Competition: Mrs. Hartshorn’s entry on behalf of the P.C. had been awarded £100. The Council thanked Mrs. Hartshorn for her good work. It was decided that the money would be paid into the current account. In April when the Council receives half of its precept from R.B.C. the £100 would be used to reimburse Mr. Hartshorn for materials used for painting and improving the kiosk so far and for additional materials required for transforming it into an Information Centre.
B) Gypsy Site in Smeaton Lane: The Clerk had been informed by R.B.C. that the planning application is to be discussed at a Planning Committee Meeting in January.
C) Anti Dog Fouling Notices: Mr. Collins reported that a sign had been put up near the dog bin in Malt Kiln Lane. The Clerk said that she hadn’t heard yet from R.B.C. regarding whether the P.C’s application for signs to be erected at the top of Ann Lane and Malt Kiln Lane, had been successful.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Crematorium: Cllr. Gillias reported that there is a proposal to build a crematorium on a site owned by R.B.C. on Onley Lane, towards Barby. The proposal is to go before the Corporate Performance Committee. He believed that the scheme was likely to go ahead. It would be built and run by R.B.C.
Weston Relief Road: This is a W.C.C. project and is behind schedule. Cllr. Gillias asked the Council to write to W.C.C. requesting that something be done about cars coming down Leicester Road towards the Avon Mill Roundabout, going into the right hand lane as though they are going to Newbold, then going all round the roundabout and taking the Rugby exit. Councillors agreed that this is unfair practise and asked the Clerk to write to the Traffic Group, W.C.C. to see if anything can be done to deter this practise. Mr. Smith pointed out that when the Relief Road is open, most of the traffic will be in the right hand lane and go towards Newbold and so the problem should not occur any more.
R.B.C. Rugby First and W.C.C. 2020 Vision: Car parking charges in the town centre are under review. On Street Parking Meters are cheaper for short stay parking. The town centre needs revitalising. Less people are buying from small shops.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
Mr Vallance said that he had received confirmation from Mr. C. Lucas (Locality Manager, Rugby Area Highways) that a contractor will resurface Main St., outside no. 51, to stop surface water flooding, within 4 weeks.
Mr. Collins said that since the Feasibility Study of the B4027 through S.U.F. had been approved by this Council, he has thought of an additional safety measure - on the verge alongside the wall of no.2 Farrier’s Court, (opposite the Village hall), a “Reduce Speed Now” sign on a yellow background beneath the already requested sign indicating a junction ahead on the left. All Councillors agreed that this would be advantageous. Mr. Collins offered to contact Mr. Stanley, W.C.C. Traffic Projects, and suggest the additional sign.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) Highway Maintenance Questionnaire. W.C.C. and Carillion, its highway maintenance contractor, want to identify ways to improve the highway maintenance service. To help we are asked to complete and return a questionnaire. Mr Collins offered to do this.
B) Fosse Division Community Forum on 1st Dec. at Pailton Village Hall. No-one to attend.
PLANNING
A) R09/0776/PLN Bloores Spinney Farm, Smeaton Lane. R.B.C. has approved permission for the erection of an agricultural building for the storage of hay and straw.
B) R09/0442/PLN Change of use of existing premises from Forge to Retail Gallery at The Old Forge. Mrs. Hartshorn advised the Council that the application had been resubmitted.
C) Gypsies in Smeaton Lane. The Clerk had been advised by the Case Officer that the application would go before the Planning Committee in January.
FINANCE
Budget and precept for the next financial year.
At the end of this financial year the P.C. account will be approx. -£100.
Mr. Collins proposed that the residue of the “Awards for All” grant, awarded to fund the making of the Parish Plan, be put in the deposit account to start a reserve fund. Mr. Baxter seconded the proposal.
Mr. Smith and Mr. Collins had worked out a budget for next year
To pay this year’s debt +expenditure for next year + putting £175.17 (balance of “Awards For All” grant) in deposit account, would need a precept for 2010/11 of £2,770. An increase of £670.
Mr. Baxter proposed the Council request a precept of £2,770 for 2010/11. There was unanimous agreement. The Clerk was asked to make the request to R.B.C.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None
The date for the next meeting was set for 25th January 2010.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 pm.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 19th October 2009, at 7.15p.m.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mrs. T. Darke
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Mrs. Hartshorn declared an interest in Item 8 Planning Application R09/0442/09
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST 2 MEETINGS were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) The Closure of Brinklow Fire Station: Mrs. Hartshorn and Mr. Collins had attended a meeting at the Revel School, on 12th October, which was part of the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Authority Improvement Plan Consultation. The Council does not support the Improvement Plan, part of which is the closure of Brinklow Fire Station. Mr. Collins had drafted a letter against the closure, to Warks. Chief Fire Officer. The Clerk expressed concern that a 4 page letter would not grab the attention of the decision makers. Councillors decided that the letter should be sent as it was and Mr. Baxter offered to sign it.
B) B.T. Payphones Adopt a Kiosk Competition: Mrs. Hartshorn suggested entering the village kiosk as the smallest Information Centre. She thought it was worth entering the competition to try to win some much needed money. Mrs. Hartshorn had drawn a large scale map of the parish and is going to write a history of the village and Newbold Revel. Old and present photographs of village scenes could be displayed side by side. A discussion about whether the finished kiosk should be locked or not, ended without a decision being made. Mr. Collins proposed that Mrs. Hartshorn should continue working on this project and if it was not completed on time to enter the competition (deadline 31st October2009), it would be good for the village anyway. All Councillors agreed with this proposal.
C) Gypsies in Smeaton Lane: Mr. Smith had attended a Coombe Fields Parish Council meeting, during which the planning application to make a private gypsy site for 2 caravans on land adjacent to Smeaton Lane, was discussed. Coombe Fields P.C. is of the same opinion as this P.C. and has written objecting to the application. Mr. Smith suggested making an appointment to meet Mr. Rose (R.B.C’s Enforcement Officer) to get some background information about the site and to find out if the gypsies are likely to get planning approval. Other Councillors thought this a good idea. The Clerk was asked to ring Mr Rose and make an appointment for the P.C..
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
Mr. Vallance reported that the footway between Stretton Lodge and Fosse Way/ B4027 junction had been reconstructed. He is still waiting to hear from Mr. C. Lucas regarding the surface water flooding of the B4027 in the parish. The Clerk had requested penalty signs for dog fouling on Ann’s Lane and Malt Kiln Lane. An acknowledgement had been received saying that the request will be considered but there is no guarantee that signs will be installed. All requests are considered monthly.
Mr. Collins reported that the feasibility study for improvements on B4027 through the village has been completed by W.C.C. and the Clerk has sent confirmation that the P.C. is in agreement for the final scheme to be put to Rugby Area committee for approval.
Mrs. Hartshorn reported that the Village Hall Committee had organised a successful “Live and Local” concert on 16th October. Two events will take place in the Village Hall in Dec. - a flower arranging demonstration in early Dec. and the Christmas Concert on 21st.. The fortnightly Watercolour Class is very popular.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) R.B.C. Re: Availability of Parish Level Documents on R.B.C’s. Website. If S.U.F. would not like to see documents it has published available on the Council’s website please let Forward Planning Team know A.S.A.P.. No objections. The Housing Needs Survey (published August2007) and the Parish Plan (published April 2008) are both on R.B.C’s. website.
B) W.C.C. Notice of Definitive Map Modification Order: Parish of S.U.F. sheet SP48SE, Order No. 2 2009, Path No. R299, R299a, R299b and R70u. The Order was made on 16th Sept 2009. Any representation or objection relating to the Order to be received by W.C.C. by 2nd Nov. No comments.
C) Letter from Vivien Frith apologising for using the Village Hall when the P.C. had planned to use it for a meeting.
D) W.C.C. Winter Maintenance 2009/10: A leaflet showing precautionary gritting routes in the county. The B4027 and the Fosse Way in the parish are on the gritting schedule.
E) W.C.C. has published an updated edition of S.U.F’s Emergency Plan. The Plan is currently kept at the Clerk’s home.
Mr. Vallance reported that the footway between Stretton Lodge and Fosse Way/ B4027 junction had been reconstructed. He is still waiting to hear from Mr. C. Lucas regarding the surface water flooding of the B4027 in the parish. The Clerk had requested penalty signs for dog fouling on Ann’s Lane and Malt Kiln Lane. An acknowledgement had been received saying that the request will be considered but there is no guarantee that signs will be installed. All requests are considered monthly.
Mr. Collins reported that the feasibility study for improvements on B4027 through the village has been completed by W.C.C. and the Clerk has sent confirmation that the P.C. is in agreement for the final scheme to be put to Rugby Area committee for approval.
Mrs. Hartshorn reported that the Village Hall Committee had organised a successful “Live and Local” concert on 16th October. Two events will take place in the Village Hall in Dec. - a flower arranging demonstration in early Dec. and the Christmas Concert on 21st.. The fortnightly Watercolour Class is very popular.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) R.B.C. Re: Availability of Parish Level Documents on R.B.C’s. Website. If S.U.F. would not like to see documents it has published available on the Council’s website please let Forward Planning Team know A.S.A.P.. No objections. The Housing Needs Survey (published August2007) and the Parish Plan (published April 2008) are both on R.B.C’s. website.
B) W.C.C. Notice of Definitive Map Modification Order: Parish of S.U.F. sheet SP48SE, Order No. 2 2009, Path No. R299, R299a, R299b and R70u. The Order was made on 16th Sept 2009. Any representation or objection relating to the Order to be received by W.C.C. by 2nd Nov. No comments.
C) Letter from Vivien Frith apologising for using the Village Hall when the P.C. had planned to use it for a meeting.
D) W.C.C. Winter Maintenance 2009/10: A leaflet showing precautionary gritting routes in the county. The B4027 and the Fosse Way in the parish are on the gritting schedule.
E) W.C.C. has published an updated edition of S.U.F’s Emergency Plan. The Plan is currently kept at the Clerk’s home.
F) Rugby Borough Local Development Framework: Proposed Submission Core Strategy – Focused Changes. There is to be a further 6 weeks representation period on the Schedule of Focused Changes. The schedule seeks to address issues of soundness and legal compliance raised in representations made on the Proposed Submission Core Strategy.
PLANNING
A) R09/0442/PLN Change of use of existing premises from Forge to Retail Gallery at The Old Forge. Permission has been refused on 2 grounds a) access onto B4027 has inadequate visibility, b) the previous use of the site created potential for contamination. Mr. Collins thought that the P.C’s proposed improvements to B4027 would increase safety at the access. Mrs. Darke said that contamination should not be an issue as the change of use did not involve disturbing the floor. Mrs. Darke advised the applicant to resubmit the application and ask for it to be put to the planning committee.
B) R09/0419/PLN Use of land for the siting of a mobile home at Lanny’s Lagoon. R.B.C. has received an appeal from Mr. Manwarne following the refusal of planning permission. R.B.C. Appeal Ref. No. AP2009/0039. Appeal start date 05/10/2009.
C) Application No. 397 Demolition of existing and erection of a new garage at 2 main St. Planning permission granted.
FINANCE
A)Payments: since the last meeting the following cheques have been authorised:-
No. 228 to E.on £75.26 for quarterly maintenance
No. 229 to Clement Keys £57.26 for the annual audit
No. 230 to E.on £38.24 for repair of lamp no. 10
At the meeting the following cheque was authorised:-
No. 231 to E.on £85.93 for quarterly supply
B) Setting the Precept for next year:- Councillors were unanimous in thinking that the precept request would have to be increased substantially in order to pay all the bills, repay the overdraft needed this year and to start accumulating some reserve money for large unbudgeted bills. It was suggested that the precept would need to be increased by 30% i.e. £525.00. The Clerk was asked to estimate her salary and expenses for next year. Mrs. Hartshorn (a member of the Village Hall Committee) said that at the next Village Hall meeting she would propose that the Commmittee lend some money to the P.C.. Mr. Collins advised that it would be unlawful. Mr. Baxter said that he would prefer to borrow money from the Bank, and asked the Clerk to find out the likely cost of taking an authorised overdraft of £250.00 for 2 months. Mrs. Hartshorn said that at the next V.H. meeting she would propose that the rent of the Hall for P.C. meetings should be waived for this year, or allow payment to be delayed until next financial year.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING
To discuss the budget and precept request for 2010/11
The date for the next meeting was set for 23rd November.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.30 pm.
F) Rugby Borough Local Development Framework: Proposed Submission Core Strategy – Focused Changes. There is to be a further 6 weeks representation period on the Schedule of Focused Changes. The schedule seeks to address issues of soundness and legal compliance raised in representations made on the Proposed Submission Core Strategy.
PLANNING
A) R09/0442/PLN Change of use of existing premises from Forge to Retail Gallery at The Old Forge. Permission has been refused on 2 grounds a) access onto B4027 has inadequate visibility, b) the previous use of the site created potential for contamination. Mr. Collins thought that the P.C’s proposed improvements to B4027 would increase safety at the access. Mrs. Darke said that contamination should not be an issue as the change of use did not involve disturbing the floor. Mrs. Darke advised the applicant to resubmit the application and ask for it to be put to the planning committee.
B) R09/0419/PLN Use of land for the siting of a mobile home at Lanny’s Lagoon. R.B.C. has received an appeal from Mr. Manwarne following the refusal of planning permission. R.B.C. Appeal Ref. No. AP2009/0039. Appeal start date 05/10/2009.
C) Application No. 397 Demolition of existing and erection of a new garage at 2 main St. Planning permission granted.
FINANCE
A)Payments: since the last meeting the following cheques have been authorised:-
No. 228 to E.on £75.26 for quarterly maintenance
No. 229 to Clement Keys £57.26 for the annual audit
No. 230 to E.on £38.24 for repair of lamp no. 10
At the meeting the following cheque was authorised:-
No. 231 to E.on £85.93 for quarterly supply
B) Setting the Precept for next year:- Councillors were unanimous in thinking that the precept request would have to be increased substantially in order to pay all the bills, repay the overdraft needed this year and to start accumulating some reserve money for large unbudgeted bills. It was suggested that the precept would need to be increased by 30% i.e. £525.00. The Clerk was asked to estimate her salary and expenses for next year. Mrs. Hartshorn (a member of the Village Hall Committee) said that at the next Village Hall meeting she would propose that the Commmittee lend some money to the P.C.. Mr. Collins advised that it would be unlawful. Mr. Baxter said that he would prefer to borrow money from the Bank, and asked the Clerk to find out the likely cost of taking an authorised overdraft of £250.00 for 2 months. Mrs. Hartshorn said that at the next V.H. meeting she would propose that the rent of the Hall for P.C. meetings should be waived for this year, or allow payment to be delayed until next financial year.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING
To discuss the budget and precept request for 2010/11
The date for the next meeting was set for 23rd November.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.30 pm.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 27th July 2009, at 7.15.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. N. Campbell (Rugby Borough Councillor)
Apologies were received from Rugby Borough Councillor A. Gillias
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING: None
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Cllr. Campbell spoke about the West Midlands Spatial Strategy Phase Three Revision Options Consultation and urged Councillors to respond to the document - Mr. Collins offered to read and respond. One section of the consultation is about providing for gypsies and travellers. Cllr. Campbell advised that there is already far more than average provision for gypsies and travellers in Warwickshire and this should be taken into consideration when further sites are planned for the West Midlands.
Development of the old radio mast site: R.B.C. is very positive about the development of the site and wants it to benefit the town as a whole not become a separate town. There will probably be a new road built to link the site with the town via Clifton Road. B.T. is the main investor, in association with ProLogistics and other businesses. R.B.C. has drawn up strong conditions which developers must agree to follow before building begins. All houses will be built to the highest level of sustainability.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
Mr. Collins had received a W.C.C. Feasibility Study for road improvements on B4027 through Stretton. The study comments that a Gateway Sign on the southern approach to the village near the drive to the Prison Service College is not acceptable “on safety grounds” as it is outside the 30m.p.h. speed limit. Mr. Collins suggested that the speed limit sign could be moved nearer to The Wharf so that a Gateway Sign could be put up within the 30m.p.h. sign. Alternatively a Gateway Sign would just fit between Mr. Treen’s boundary fence and the road near the present speed limit sign. Mr. Collins also suggested that a Junction Ahead Sign could be attached to the electricity pole on the corner of Malt Kiln Lane and Main St., to warn drivers coming from Street Ashton that traffic may be turning onto Main Road from New St. It was proposed that The Double Bend Sign in the garden of The Linhay, the Juction Ahead Sign and Reduce Speed Now Sign above the Home Farm garden will all have no real effect and could be removed, though the 30m.p.h. repeater sign outside Home Farm should remain. Mr Collins said he would sent the P.C’s. response to W.C.C’s Study to Shire Hall.
Mr. Vallance reported that all loose kerb stones have been cemented in. The kerb on the corner outside The Old Forge will be lowered for wheelchair/motorised scooter access within 4 weeks. The flooding of B4027 at the end of Lodge Farm drive will be investigated and the lying of surface water outside no. 51 Main St. will be remedied.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) W.C.C. Mobile Library Service 2009 Timetables and Leaflet Promotion. The Library Service is inviting comments on the service from the P.C. and any suggestions for ways in which more members of the community might be encouraged to use it. Mrs. Hartshorn suggested advertising the dates when the Library would be visiting Stretton each month in “Round the Revel”. The Clerk said she would send the dates to Stretton’s correspondent so that they will be published each month in the magazine.
B) R.B.C. Planning Dept.:- Currently a team of people are reviewing the Council’s Planning – Development procedures. There are some changes with immediate effect. The most significant change is that R.B.C. cannot treat representations received in relation to planning submissions as confidential.
C) R.B.C. Environmental Services: Gypsy and Traveller Workshop (held on 29th April) Summary Notes. For Information.
D) R.B.C. Environmental Services: Designated Public Place Order: - Received before the last meeting but circulated to Councillors again as not all had read the letter. No comments.
E) R.B.C. Local Development Framework for Rugby Borough – Proposed Submission Core Strategy Development Plan Document (DPD):- The Core Strategy sets out policies to guide further development and change in the Rugby Borough for the period to 2026. R.B.C. is inviting representations on this document and its accompanying documents. No comments.
F) W.C.C. Annual Update of the Parish Council’s Community Emergency Plan. The Council is asked to check the existing information for accuracy. To look at the new template and agree what information and parts are relevant to this Council and what additional information can be included. Councillors could not suggest any additional information. The Clerk is to make any necessary amendments/alterations and send the completed plan to the Emergency Planning Unit.
G) Poor’s Piece:- The Clerk has received a letter from Mr. P. Wallace informing the Council that a further trustee, namely Mr. R. Hall has been co-opted. Mr. Hall is entitled to hold office for 5 years.
H) W.C.C. Local Transport Plan 3:- W.C.C. is starting to review the second L.T.P. so that an updated version can be published in April 2011. Stage 1 Consultation: Transport Goals and Issues- the accompanying questionnaire is to be completed by Mr. Vallance.
PLANNING
A) Gypsies in Smeaton Lane:- 2 caravans are parked on land off Smeaton Lane on the same side of the road as “Horseshoe Cottage” opposite land between “Foxwood” and “Fogg Cottages”. A new access has been made and fencing erected. A “Stop Order” was issued at the site, on 17th July, preventing any further development. However, R.B.C. Enforcement Officer was to visit the site today as the new access has been tarmacced since the “Stop Order”. The gypsies/travellers have 28 days (from 17th July) to submit a planning application. If an application is submitted they will be able to stay at least until a decision is made. Otherwise they will be forcibly removed by R.B.C..
B) R09/0419/PLN Lanny’s Lagoon: Refusal of permission for use of land for the siting of a
mobile home, because it is within the Green Belt.
C)R09/0636//AG Bloores Spinney Farm, Smeaton Lane: Determination as to whether prior notification is required for erection of agricultural building. Councillors were aware that the Rugby Borough Local Plan 2006 permits the erection of agricultural buildings on Green Belt land. However the Council was of the opinion that the size of the proposed development is too large and would be out of scale with other buildings in this area of the Green Belt. The Clerk was asked to convey the Council’s comments.
FINANCE
A) Payments: Since the last meeting the followings have been authorised:-
No. 226 to E.on £75.26 for quarterly maintenance
No. 227 to E.on £85.93 for quarterly electricity supply
B) The Clerk reported that Stephen Marks, R.B.C. Sustainable Partnership Manager, had informed her that there are no grants available from R.B.C. for improving Street lighting. W.C.C. had advised the Clerk that the Council should raise the issue with County Cllr. Phillip Morris Jones. He may be able to recommend the project in relation to the Highways Maintenance Budget, that the County Council Rugby Area Committee allocates. Cllr. Campbell advised the Council that it should be represented at the next W.C.C. Rugby Area Committee meeting on 17th September. A written question about funding should be sent to the Committee before the meeting and the issue should be raised at the meeting by a Councillor. It would be beneficial to the cause to gain Cllr. Morris Jones’ support.
C) Mrs. Hartshorn asked the Council to refund Mr. Hartshorn for money he has spent on paint to redecorate the telephone kiosk. The Council agreed to do so.
D) Mr Collins asked if the remaining money from W.C.C. for footpath maintenance (£9.10) could be used to buy petrol for the strimmer. Councillors gave their agreement. Mr. Collins informed the Council that in future most of the Public Footpaths and Bridleways regarded as headland paths in the parish would be mown by W.C.C. Rangers, however, volunteers would continue to maintain minor cross field paths and areas around the footpath gates themselves.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None
DATE OF THE NEXT MEETING: Monday 7th September 2009.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.05 p.m.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 15th June 2009, at 7.30.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mrs. S. Hartshorn (Councillor)
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
Apologies were received from Councillor Collins
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Mrs. Hartshorn declared a personal interest in Item 8, Planning Application R09/0467/LBC.
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) The Street Lamp on the corner of Malt Kiln Lane and Main Street has been replaced and is working.
B) Mr Field’s Barn near Public Footpath R71: Since the last meeting the Clerk has passed on Mr. and Mrs. Collins’ suggestion to P.C.S.O Wil Weininger, that Mr. Field should be asked to demolish the barn so that it could not be used for “gay” rendezvous. Wil told her that he had already asked Mr. Field to take down the sides of the barn and that Mr. Field had agreed to, but he hasn’t got round to it yet. Wil said he would go to see Mr Field again and repeat the request. The sides of the barn have since been removed and a lot of bushes around the barn have been removed.
C) The recent A.G.M. and Annual Parish Meeting: the Council expressed disappointment that only 1 member of the public attended the meetings. The Clerk wondered whether a later start might make next year’s meetings more convenient for people, but Councillors thought not. Councillors felt it was not worthwhile inviting speakers to the meetings.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Cllr Gillias spoke about R.B.C’s Core Strategy and the Spatial Strategy. Growth is going to be on Brown Field Sites. There will be a huge impact on Rugby town and its services. There are Urban Area Strategic Growth Targets. On the Rugby Radio Site 40% of the houses will be “affordable”. Other areas where urban development will take place include Cosford and Leicester Road. These should be sustainable settlements.
Stretton under Fosse is a local needs environment – there should only be development if a need is identified via a housing needs survey.
Gypsy and Traveller’s Sites: there have to be authorised sites for gypsies and travellers so that unauthorised pitching can be stopped. Authorised sites will be managed by Council Officers. Mr. Gillias urged Councillors to respond to R.B.C. survey on gypsy and travellers. There are proactive workshops taking place. Criteria for suitable sites include:- close to urban area, within 2 Km. of local services, size appropriate to existing settlement, vehicle access suitable for large lorries.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN:
Mr. Vallance reported that he has been unsuccessful so far in getting any funding for additional street lamps. Cllr. Gillias offered to help find possible sources of funding – he will send Mr. Vallance any relevant information he obtains. The ditches on B4027 between Stretton Lodge and Wharf Cottages have been dug out. It is hoped that rain water will now drain away instead of lying on the road. The Clerk reported that she had been asked if the Council would make a request to W.C.C to lower the kerb outside “The Old Forge”, to make it accessible for a disability scooter.
Councillors agreed to the request and Mr. Vallance offered to ask W.C.C.
Mrs. Hartshorn has advertised to local businesses that a First Aid Course might be run in the Village Hall. So far 1 business has responded – it will send 2 employees if the course goes ahead. Mrs. Hartshorn said she would contact other businesses to see if they are interested.
At a recent W.C.C. Cabinet meeting £5,000 for a feasibility study for traffic calming in Main St was ratified. Mr. Collins had sent an e-mail to the P.C. informing it of his meeting with Graham Stanley, Senior Engineer, Traffic Projects, W.C.C.. Mr. Stanley will provide detailed plans and photographs later (Sept 09) and it is likely that the major scheme (gated entrances) can be ready for January 2010 budget, and if approved be in place by spring 2011. The minor scheme (problem of vehicles trying to turn onto Main St. near “The Old Forge”), may be implemented sooner. This will probably be “junction ahead” signs about 50 yds away from the junction on both sides of Main St. The suggested mini roundabout would never be approved. Owing to the introduction of the 50 m.p.h. speed limit, the present 30 m.p.h. signs would have to remain as the speed limit boundary.
The reconstruction of the footway between Stretton Lodge and Fosse Way has been ratified by W.C.C. Cabinet and is on the Rugby Area list of 5 year structural proposals 2009.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) British Telecommunications plc: Notice to Complete – to confirm that we have now completed the decommissioning in respect of the kiosk in Main St. Stretton under Fosse. This “Notice to Complete” shall expire 5 days from the date hereof (01/05/09) following which legal ownership of the kiosk shall vest in the P.C. It has also been confirmed that the light inside the kiosk has been added to P.C. electricity inventory. B.T. also enclosed a maintenance guide for kiosks.
B) Rugby Economic Prosperity Strategy 2009/2010: Reflects the Council’s commitment to working with partners and industry to improve the vitality of the Borough’s economy. For information.
C) R.B.C. Environmental Services, Public Health and Licensing: R.B.C. has determined with the support of Warwickshire Police, to consult on the possible implementation of a Designated Public Place Order (DPPO). The order, if approved, will come into force on 1st October 2009 and create a zone in which the Police (and Community Safety Wardens) have powers to confiscate alcohol from people drinking in a public area where: (a) they cause nuisance or annoyance to members of the public; or (b) disorder has been associated with the consumption of alcohol in that place. This DPPO would cover the whole of the administrative areas of R.B.C. The P.C. is invited to comment on the proposal, in writing by 31st July. Not all Councillors had read this correspondence so it was decided that it would be circulated after this meeting. Any comments could be given to the Clerk at the next meeting.
D) The next Fosse Division Community Forum is on Tuesday 30th June at Monks Kirby Village Hall. Mr. Baxter will attend.
PLANNING:
R09/0467/09: the proposed change of use of existing premises from Class B2 (forge) to Class A1 (retail gallery) at “The Old Forge”, Main St.
Mrs. Hartshorn gave details of the proposal and why her husband hoped for planning approval from R.B.C. There were no objections to this proposal. The Clerk was asked to inform R.B.C. to that effect.
FINANCE
A) Telephone Kiosk: The Clerk reported that the kiosk was covered by the P.C. insurance (at no extra cost).
B) Bank Charges: Since the last meeting the Clerk had gained a full refund of £15 bank charges.
C) Payments: - Since the last meeting the following cheques had been authorised:-
No. 223 to “Round the Revel” (donation) £50.00
No. 224 to Jardine Lloyd Thompson £264.22 for annual insurance premium.
At the meeting the following cheque was authorised: -
No. 225 to E.on £734.83 for replacement of street lamp on the corner of Malt Kiln Lane and Main St.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None
The date for the next meeting was set for Monday 27th July.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.10 pm.
Minutes of an extraordinary meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 19th May 2009.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mrs. E. Collins
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
This meeting was called to discuss Planning Application No. R09/0419/PLN: Siting of a mobile home at Lanny’s Lagoon, Fosse Way, Stretton under Fosse.
Mr. Lanwarne would like to live in the proposed mobile home on the site of his fishing lagoon. He has managed the site for 16 years and believes that being a resident would assist in diversification of the business into horticulture to cover the winter months.
Councillors were aware that the proposed site for the development is within the Green Belt, and would probably be refused owing to the restrictions that apply according to Policy E2 of the R.B.C. Local Plan 2006.
It was suggested that the mobile home may fulfil the purpose of providing “essential facilities for outdoor sport and recreation”, which would make it permissible.
Councillors decided that if R.B.C. considered the mobile home permissible in the Green Belt, then they had no objections to the application.
The Clerk was asked to write to R.B.C. conveying the Council’s views.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 19th May2009.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mrs. E. Collins
ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN
There was 1 nomination. Mr. Baxter proposed himself be elected as Chairman for the year, seconded by Mr. Vallance. There were no votes against the proposal; Mr. Baxter was duly elected as Chairman.
Mr. Baxter completed the Chairman’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office and it was received by the Council.
ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN
Mr. Collins proposed Mr. Vallance be elected as Vice Chairman for the year, seconded by Mr. Baxter. Mr. Vallance was unanimously elected as Vice Chairman.
STATEMENT OF FINANCES
The Clerk had prepared a Statement of Finances at 31st March 2009 and a list of the Council’s Assets. These were both received and approved by the Council and signed by the Chairman.
TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING ANNUAL ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
A) Subscription to W.A.L.C.: approved
B) Insurance Premium: approved
C) Donation to “Round the Revel”: approved.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 27th April 2009, at 7.15p.m.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mrs. S. Hartshorn (Councillor)
Mr. T. Smith “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Apologies were received from Mr. D. Collins (Cllr.) and Mr. A. Gillias (R.B. Cllr.)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
CO-OPTION
Mr. T. Smith was co-opted on to the Council. He completed a Declaration of Acceptance of Office Form. He gave the Clerk a completed “Notification of Personal Interests” form, a copy of which she will send to The Monitoring Officer at R.B.C. The Clerk had requested a form from Lloyds TSB to authorise Mr. Smith’s signature on P.C. cheques and to remove Mrs. Carter’s signature.
MATTERS ARISING from the minutes of the last meeting
A) Litter Pick: Mr. Baxter thanked everyone for taking part in the litter pick. There were more participants this year. The approaches to the village are much tidier and it is hoped that they will remain so.
B) Street Lamp on the corner of Main St./Malt Kiln Lane: The Clerk reported that she had contacted E.on on 24th April and had been advised that the job had been scheduled to be done sometime during the week beginning 27th April.
C) Telephone Kiosk: E.on has been informed by BT that the Council has adopted the telephone kiosk. E.on want to know whether the P.C. want the light in the kiosk to remain or whether it is going to have the electricity supply disconnected. If the P.C. is going to keep the light, it will have to be added to the inventory to account for the extra electricity being used. The Clerk was advised that it would cost £20 - £25 p.a. to keep the light. Councillors decided to retain the light and asked the Clerk to have it added to the electricity inventory.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
The Village Environment: Mr. Vallance reported that he had walked the village pavements with Mr. C. Lucas, Area Surveyor, County Highways. Mr. Lucas is to arrange for any missing kerb bricks to be replaced and loose ones to be cemented in. After heavy rain, there are 3 areas in the parish where water lies on the B4027 – at the entrance to Lodge Farm, near Stretton Lodge and outside no. 51 Main Street. Mr. Lucas is going to inspect these areas to identify the causes of the flooding. All the drains in the parish were cleaned out by W.C.C. at the end of March as instructed by Mr. Lucas. The Chairman thanked Mr. Vallance for achieving such a positive result.
Mr. Vallance said he is waiting to hear from Hannah Cramp, Localities and Communities Officer, Rugby Area Partnership Team, W.C.C. whom he has asked to source some funding for 2 additional street lamps. W.A.L.C. gives advice on funding. Mr. Vallance suggested asking the Local Association for help in obtaining funding. The Clerk was asked to contact W.A.L.C. and request some help.
Emergency Services, Crime and Disorder: The Clerk reported that P.C.S.O. Wil Weininger is going to hold a Police Surgery in the Village Hall every 3 weeks on Tuesdays from 7.00 to 7.30 p.m. starting on 28th April. The surgeries will replace the Mobile Police Station. Councillors were concerned about the lack of publicity for the surgeries. The Clerk said she had put notices/timetables on the 2 notice boards in the village. The Clerk offered to suggest to Wil that he puts a notice/timetable in “Round the Revel”.
Mr. Baxter reported that Wil is going to cycle around the villages in the Fosse Ward.
Social Entertainment and Leisure: Mrs. Hartshorn has obtained information about a First Aid Course and will make enquiries at local businesses to see if there is a demand for such a course. The course would be held in the Village Hall and would be open to anyone. The cost would be £45 per person, i.e. £40 for the instructor and £5 for the Village Hall funds.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) R.B.C. Rugby Rural Link Minibus Scheme: This is a new scheme (replacing the travel token scheme and the Village Link community bus service) intended for people in rural locations, especially those who may not have their own transport and need support to access essential services. This scheme will start at the beginning of May 2009. To use the scheme, you need to register with Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action on 01788 539572. Once registered you will be able to make a booking for transport in your area on the set day it operates. If requested a bus would pick up from Stretton on Thursdays to Tesco/ Aldi, Rugby and return.
B) Information Commissioner’s Office: To help Parish Councils fulfil their responsibilities under the Freedom of Information Act an instructural DVD “Tick Tock” has been received.
C) Climate Change Partnership: The Warwickshire Climate Change Partnership will be hosting a community conference on local action for climate change, on Saturday September 19th, at Brandon Marsh Nature Centre, 10am – 1pm. No-one present said they would go.
D) W.C.C. Application for a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO): The route of public footpath R70u has been drawn inaccurately on the map and must be removed and then replaced on it’s correct alignment by means of a DMMO. This was welcomed by the Council.
E) R.B.C. Meeting the affordable housing needs for Rugby’s rural communities: The Participation and Development and Forward Planning Teams of R.B.C. work closely with Warwickshire Rural Community Council and Warwickshire rural Housing Association to a) identify the affordable housing need and b) ensure that development activities can progress which are responsive to need and sympathetic to the village community. Contact nos. for information are provided.
F) R.B.C. Planning for Gypsy and Traveller Sites: Parish Councils have been informed that R.B.C. has proposed a strategy to meet the identified need that exists in Rugby for sites. If there was no plan it would be hard to defend any developments in inappropriate locations. Rugby has to make provision for 48 pitches by 2012 and 89 pitches by 2016. There is to be a Workshop Event at Church Lawford Village Hall on Wednesday 29th April at 6.00 p.m. No-one offered to attend.
G) Equality and Human Rights Commission: for information a booklet explaining the current Public Sector Equality Duties.
H) W.C.C. Bus Service Improvements – consultation 2009: W.C.C. would welcome feedback on the suitability of the bus services operating through the parish as there may be unmet demands around the County. Any response to be received by 5th May. Councillors thought the present service was very good. Mr. Collins had previously volunteered to send a response.
I) Mr Field’s Barn near Public Footpath R71: It seems that this barn is being used for “gay” rendezvous. Mr. and Mrs. Collins have suggested that the P.C. ask Mr. Fields to demolish the barn and therefore eliminate the meeting place. This was discussed and Councillors decided that the Parish Council could not ask anyone to demolish his/her property. The Council believed it to be a Police matter. The Clerk volunteered to visit the Police Surgery the next evening and pass on Mr. and Mrs. Collins’s suggestion.
THE COUNCIL’S RISK ASSESSMENT
The Clerk had prepared a risk assessment. A copy was given to each Councillor. All risks were considered low level and Councillors agreed with the assessment. The assessment is to be reviewed annually.
PLANNING: None.
FINANCE
A) The renewal of the WALC subscription was discussed and Councillors decided to renew the membership
B) The renewal of the Insurance Policy was discussed. Councillors decided to have the Red Telephone Kiosk added to the Policy. The Clerk was asked to make enquiries about any extra cost incurred. Councillors agreed to renew the present Policy.
C) Receipts: on 23/4/09 from R.B.C. £1,050.00 for half of precept 2009/10
D) Payments: Since the last meeting the following cheque had been authorised:-
On 8/4/09 no. 220 to E.on £72.68 for quarterly maintenance
At the meeting the following cheques were authorised:-
No. 221 to E.on £85.93 for quarterly supply
No. 222 to W.A.L.C. for annual subscription
E) Bank Balances: - on 31/3/09 £401.94 in Business Instant Access Account
£34.25 in Current Account
F) Bank Charges: The Clerk reported that the Council had been charged £15 for an unauthorised overdraft. The Clerk explained that she had failed to transfer money to the current account before sending out a payment. Councillors advised the Clerk to contact Lloyds TSB and complain about the charge on grounds of the P.C. being a loyal customer and this is the first time it has been overdrawn.
ARRAGEMENTS FOR THE A.G.M. AND THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
The date for the meetings has been changed to Tuesday 19th May when Mr. Fossey could attend. The Clerk confirmed that 2 speakers had been booked for the Annual Parish Meeting. Chris Fossey, Road Safety Liason Officer, W.C.C. is to speak about the County’s policies on speed control and traffic management. P.C.S.O. Wil Weininger will speak about the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and any relevant policing matters. The Clerk offered to produce fliers publicising the meetings and deliver them throughout the parish.
DATE OF THE NEXT MEETING: Monday 15th June 2009.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 26th January 2009, at 7.15p.m.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Apologies were received from Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) Freedom of Information Act: - Mr. Collins had completed a draft of the Scheme for Stretton Under Fosse. Mrs. Carter asked for her telephone no. to be removed from the Scheme. Following a discussion the Council decided to charge 25p. per sheet for providing any copies on request.
B) Funding for Street Lighting: - Mr. Vallance said he had been unsuccessful in obtaining a grant from Eon. He was going to apply for funding to The Heart of England Community Foundation. Mr. Collins reported that money from the Poor’s Piece Charity could not be used to pay for street lighting. Mr. Baxter suggested that stressing the danger of poor street lighting on health and safety might help persuade benefactors to give the P.C. a grant. Mr. Vallance suggested raising money by organising social events. The Clerk had calculated that the P.C. would be able to afford to replace the irreparable lamp on the corner of Main St and Malt Kiln Lane out of the next precept payment, which is due in April. Councillors decided that the repair of this lamp is the most urgent part of the street lighting project. The Clerk was asked to contact Eon and ask them to make the replacement in mid March with payment in mid April.
C) Public Footpaths:- On 17th December Mr. Baxter, Mr. and Mrs. Collins, Mr. Wallace, and Mr. Ridley met Mr. Richard Barnard (W.C.C. Footpath Officer), to discuss the proliferation of new gates in the parish. Landowners consider it unnecessary for paths to go across so many fields when there are nearby alternative routes (that have been used for many years) along the edges of fields. Landowners were disappointed that it seemed no compromise could be reached. However, on 19th January the Clerk received a letter from Joy Wadsworth, W.C.C. Definitive Map Team, with an “Application for a Definitive Map Modification Order to correct the alignment of public footpaths R299a, R299b and part of public footpath R299 in the Parish of Stretton Under Fosse”. The purpose of the consultation is to allow the submission of any relevant counter evidence. The Council had no appropriate evidence and would welcome the modification.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
1. Transport and Highways. Mr. Collins had received an e-mail from C. Burrows, Minor Works Programme Manager, informing him that at the Rugby Area Committee Transport Capital Seminar members agreed to fund a feasibility study, costing £5,000, to draw up a “traffic calming” scheme. This will however go to W.C.C. Cabinet on 23rd April to be “rubber stamped”.
Mr Baxter reported that at a recent Fosse Division Locality Panel meeting County Councillor Morris-Jones informed him that the “go ahead” for moving the 30m.p.h. signs further out of the village had been granted. The Clerk was asked to verify this.
2. Social Entertainment and Leisure. Mrs. Hartshorn reported that she had not pursued holding a First Aid Course in the Village Hall as The Red Cross and St John Ambulance only run courses at their own premises or Halls where there is a carpeted floor or exercise mats. The promotion of the Village Hall is on going. A New Year’s Eve Party was tried but was not popular. The Village Hall Committee has agreed on a calendar of events for the year. Each event will be promoted in and around the village.
3. Retail and other Facilities. Mrs. Hartshorn reported that there are now 2 disabled parking bays at Malt Kiln Farm Shop.
4. Housing and Planning, 5. Local Business and Employment and 8. Information and Communication. Mr Baxter said there were no developments to report.
6. Emergency Services, Crime and Disorder. Mrs. Hall reported that The Neighbourhood Watch Scheme was in operation. There are 10 co-ordinators who cover the whole parish except the Stretton end of Smeaton Lane. New yellow Neighbourhood Watch signs have been installed.
7. The Village Environment. Mrs. Carter and Mr. Vallance have been promised some “Penalty for Dog Fouling” notices. In February, the wording on new signs will be different to at present so the Council decided to wait until the new worded signs could be supplied before ordering any. Councillors discussed the best places for the signs to be installed.
At the Rugby Area Committee, members agreed to fund the reconstruction of the footway between Stretton Lodge and the Fosse way/B4027 junction. This will go to W.C.C. Cabinet on 23rd April to be “rubber stamped”.
Mr Vallance offered to arrange a mutually convenient date with Mr. Cowley, Area Manager, Rugby County Highways, to walk the pavements in the parish with him, in order to survey them.
POOR’S PIECE CHARITY
Mr. Collins told the Council that he had been researching and discovered that the trustees of this charity have not been appointed in the manner specified in a Scheme Order of 25th June 1918. The Scheme was approved and established for the regulation of the charity and sealed by the Charity Commission. The document states that 2 representative trustees shall be appointed by this P.C.. Each appointment shall be made for a term of 4 years. The 2 representative trustees may then co-opt another trustee who shall be entitled to hold office for 5 years. Mr. Collins had written to Mr. P. Wallace (Chairman of Poor’s Piece Charity) to inform him of his findings. Mr. Collins also suggested that the trustees meet as soon as possible on the issue of the P.C. electing trustees, so that he could make sure it is on the agenda for 26th Jan. Mr. Wallace then called a meeting of the trustees and subsequently wrote to the Chairman of the P.C. The trustees were concerned that Mr. Collins had not involved or informed any other member of the P.C.. In their opinion he was not working on behalf of, or with the authority of the P.C.. Following a discussion Councillors decided to elect 2 trustees at the next meeting. Councillors found it difficult to choose 2 out of the 3 present trustees. The Clerk suggested that it might be preferable for the trustees to decide. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr. Wallace informing him of the proper way of appointing trustees as approved by the Charity Commission. The trustees are to be asked to let the Clerk know which if any, of the present trustees wish to be nominated, before the next meeting.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) W.C.C. Warwickshire Climate Change Partnership – the team would welcome the opportunity to speak to the P.C. on Climate Change in Warks. Looking at how this parish can help Warks. deliver it’s Local Area Agreement. There are 5 key areas in reducing carbon dioxide emissions through targeted actions: transport; energy; resource efficiency; adaption and communication and education. Councillors decided not to invite the team to come to talk to them.
B) Warwickshire Rural Housing Association (Preserving Village Life) Annual Report 2007/08. For information.
C) R.B.C. Council Tax Base 20009/10:- For Stretton Under Fosse the Tax Base will be 95.52. This is an increase of 0.42% Band D equivalent properties.
PLANNING
A) R08/1432/LBC 2 Main Street: R.B.C. approval for the removal of internal walls, widening of doorway, repositioning of doorway, insertion of doorway.
B) R08/1687/PLN 1Tower Cottages: R.B.C. approval for the formation of a ménage and erection of a post and rail fence.
FINANCE
A) Cheques: Since the last meeting the following cheques had been authorised:-
No. 215 £72.68 to Eon for quarterly maintenance.
No. 216 £85.93 to Eon for quarterly supply.
At the meeting the following cheque was authorised:-
No. 217 £50 to Stretton Under Fosse Village Hall Committee for annual rental of Hall for meetings.
B) Bank Balances at 31/12/08: Current Account - £355.9
Business Instant Access Account - £721.78
C) Street Lighting Maintenance Charges: From 1st April 2009 the new total of the quarterly invoice for maintenance will be £65.44 excluding VAT (an increase of £2.24)
.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING
The election of 2 representative trustees for Poor’s Piece Charity.
The date for the next meeting was set for Monday 9th March 2009.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.55 pm.
Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 8th December 2008, at 7.30.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
Apologies were received from Mr. N. Campbell (Rugby Borough Councillor).
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) Funding for Street Lighting:- The Clerk reported that a letter had been received from Warwickshire Rural Community Council stating that the P.C’s application for a grant from C.O.M.M.A. had been unsuccessful.
Mrs. Hartshorn had obtained some information regarding grants available from The Safer Environment Fund. The P.C’s project seems to meet this fund’s criteria. Mr. Vallance said he would complete the relevant application form.
B) Footpaths near Tower Cottages: The Clerk had made enquiries regarding the route of footpath R299 in the 1950s and was told that it was the same as it is now. The information has been given to W.C.C. and work is in progress towards making a Definitive Map Modification Order to correct the legal record.
The Clerk suggested that as there is such controversy and ill feeling about all the new gates that have been installed in the parish, it would be a good idea to invite a W.C.C. Footpath Officer to come and talk to local landowners to explain the need for them. Mr Baxter agreed that it would be a good idea and asked the Clerk to arrange a meeting. Mr. Collins asked the Clerk to let Mrs. Collins (Parish Footpath Officer), know when the meeting is to take place.
Mr. Baxter then proposed that Item 7 on the agenda be brought forward and become the next item. There were no objections to this proposal.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Mr. Gillias explained the new 3 bin system of recycling and refuse collection which is due to commence in April 2009.
Mr. Gillias left the meeting
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
Mrs Carter told the meeting that Mr. Paul Cowley, Area Manager, Rugby County Highways is going to walk the pavements in the parish in order to make a survey of them. There is no date set for this survey so far.
There was no further news on this item.
THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
Mr. Baxter reported that he had not completed the guide to information for parish councils. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is changing the emphasis in the approval and operation of publication schemes to a generic model which should be adopted and operated by all public authorities from 1st Jan. 2009. As the deadline is getting close Mr. Collins offered to complete the relevant columns in the template guide provided by ICO.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) Communities and Local Government: Communities in Control: Real people, real power: Codes of conduct for local authority members and employees – A consultation. Comments invited before 24th Dec. No comments made.
B) W.C.C. Central Warwickshire LEADER Project. The aim of LEADER will be to energise villages where there is little community cohesion by bringing the village together in shared projects. The P.C. is asked to use its local knowledge to give a subjective opinion on whether Stretton is cohesive or not. Following a discussion the Clerk was asked to reply giving Stretton a Cohesive Score of 3 (indicating that the village is neither particularly cohesive or not).
C) R.B.C. New 3 Bin Recycling Service: Notice of a “drop-in” event at Brinklow Church Room on Thursday 20th Nov. 5.00 – 7.00p.m for residents of Brinklow and Stretton Under Fosse where the changes which are planned to commence in April 2009, will be explained. The Clerk had displayed the poster provided on the P.C. noticeboard before the event.
D) W.C.C. Winter Maintenance in Warwickshire 2008/09: B roads in the parish will be gritted.
E) W.C.C. Rugby Area Committee: the next meeting is on 17th Dec. at 6.30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Rugby Town Hall.
F) Fosse Divisional Locality Panel: the next meeting is on 16th Dec. at Townsend Memorial Hall, Clifton-on-Dunsmore. A Police surgery will be open from 7 p.m. The formal meeting starts at 7.30 p.m.
G) R.B.C. Emergency Preparedness Event – 24th Feb. 2009: R.B.C. and W.C.C. Emergency Planning Unit are in the process of reviewing the Parish Council Community Emergency Plan. As part of the review process, a workshop for the P.Cs. of Rugby is being held on 24th Feb. at The Benn Hall, Rugby, from 7p.m. until 9 p. m. The Clerk offered to attend this workshop.
PLANNING
R08/1591/PALB R.B.C. has approved permission for the erection of a two storey side extension at 2, Tower Cottages.
FINANCE
A) Clerk’s Salary: the basic hourly rate for part time clerks, payable from 1st April 2008 is £8.238. The Clerk’s annual salary will be £856.96, an increase of £20.70.
B) Precept request for financial year 2009/10: Mr. Collins proposed that the P.C. asks for a precept payment of £2,100, an increase of £175.00. The proposal was seconded by Mr. Baxter. The Clerk was asked to let R.B.C. know the amount requested.
C) Cheques: The following cheque was authorised:-
No.214 £35.84 to Eon for the repair of street lamp outside 55, Main St.
SIGN FOR NEWBOLD REVEL MAIN DRIVE
The Clerk reported that she had received a request from the Postman for a sign to be erected on the approach to the village from Street Ashton, directing traffic for Newbold Revel straight through the village. He is frequently asked directions from motorists when he is delivering post in the village. Following a discussion a vote was taken showing 3 against the request, therefore no action is to be taken.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None
The date for the next meeting was set for Monday 26th January 2009.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.45 p.m..
Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 10th November 2008, at 7.15p.m.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mrs. M. Armitage, Mrs. E. Collins and Mrs. T. Darke.
Apologies were received from Cllr. S. Carter and R.B.Cllr. A Gillias.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION
Mrs. Collins said that it is not always obvious from the minutes of P.C. meetings what is being done to follow up items discussed. Mrs. Collins suggested that it would be easier for people to know what was being done if action taken/ not taken was written in the minutes.
Mr. Baxter said the comments had been noted. On the whole, the action to be taken was minuted. However, Mrs. Collins had made a valid point. The Clerk offered to include the actions to be taken wherever possible.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) Warks. Solihull and Birmingham Training Partnership: a questionnaire to be completed by Councils not attending any training. The Clerk is to fill in the questionnaire to the effect that the cost of courses is the main reason why no-one from this Council attends training.
B) W.C.C. Definitive Map Modification Order for Public Footpaths R299, R299a, R299b and R70u. R70u was incorrectly drawn on the 1991 Definitive Map, owing to drafting errors in the original D.M. in 1960s. Further research is being undertaken with a view to making a D.M.M.O. to correct the legal record. This initial consultation is to give the P.C. the background to the situation, enable comments to be made and allow submission of any extra evidence. The D.M. Team is looking for local knowledge or memory of the late 1950s when the routes were added to the map or the early 1960s when they were put in place on the ground. The P.C. is asked to consider if it has anything to add to the enclosed copy documents. The Clerk offered to ask a few people she thinks may remember the paths in the 1950s and 60s, and report back to W.C.C.
C) Warwickshire Best Village of the Year Competition 2008: A questionnaire to be completed by 14th November. Mrs. Hartshorn to complete this.
D) R.B.C. Travel Tokens Scrutiny Review: R.B. Councillors have consulted all current travel token users, taken evidence from key stakeholders and researched discretionary travel schemes in other local authority areas. Attached to the letter is a short paper outlining the provisional findings of the review and the proposals for change under consideration. P.C. is invited to send comments on the proposals. None mentioned.
E) R.B.C. Rugby Economic Prosperity Strategy 2009/10: An invitation to send in P.C’s. thoughts as to what it feels the Council and it partners’ priorities should be over the next year. R.B.C. would also like to know the part this P.C. would play in achieving the aims identified. Deadline for ideas is 28th November. None mentioned.
F) W.C.C. Public Footpath Extinguishment Order: Footpath R71 is now extinguished.
G) Communities and Local Government: The making and enforcement of byelaws. A consultation document, inviting views on the proposed new procedure which will enable authorities to make certain byelaws without the need for scrutiny by the Secretary of State and about proposals for a new enforcement regime for byelaws. Comments are invited by 20th November. None mentioned.
H) R.B.C. Core Strategy Preferred Options Paper: a paper copy of the document which has been available on R.B.C. web site, since the beginning of September. The formal consultation ended on 31st Oct.
THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
Information from W.A.L.C. about this Act has been sent to P.C. in the form of a New Model Publication Scheme. WALC has also sent recommendations for the steps the P.C. should take when preparing for publication. Adoption of the Act needs to take place by 31st Dec. 2008.
Mrs. Hartshorn proposed that the P.C. adopt the Freedom of Information Act, Mr Baxter seconded the proposal. The Motion was carried unanimously.
Mr. Baxter took away the written legal briefing from WALC, to study. He will decide what, how and where information will be available to the public.
PLANNING
A) R08/1687/PLN: the proposed formation of a ménage and erection of a post and rail fence, at 2 Tower Cottages. No objections. The Clerk was asked to let R.B.C. know that this Council had no objections, adding, that if the Preservation Officer finds this proposal acceptable in the Green Belt, this Council does too.
B) R08/1432/LBC: the proposed internal alterations to The Thatched Cottage, 2 Main St.. The deadline for the comments was before the meeting. All Councillors had seen the plans, application and supporting statement and no objections were raised. The Clerk had informed R.B.C. that this Council had no objections.
FINANCE
Cheques: Since the last meeting the following cheques had been authorised:-
No. 211 £1 to B.T. for the adoption of the telephone kiosk without payphone.
No.212 £85.93 to E.on for quarterly electricity supply.
At the meeting the following cheque was authorised
No. 213 £418.13 to Mrs. s. J. Hall for half her annual salary.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING
Setting the precept request for the next financial year.
The date for the next meeting was set for 8th December.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.25 pm.
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 22nd September 2008, at 7.15 p.m.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING (4th August) were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) Left railway construction materials: Mrs. Hartshorn reported that there are still some unused construction materials left by railway workers. The Clerk was asked to write to Network Rail asking them to clear the site.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
Each Councillor reported on the progress being made on the sections of the Action Plan he/she is responsible for.
1. Transport and Highways. Mr. Collins advised the Council that signs are to be put up at Magna Park Roundabout, directing lorries onto roads which are the approved H.G.V. routes. These are to be provided and erected by W.C.C.
2. Social Entertainment and Leisure. Mrs. Hartshorn reported that she has obtained information from both The Red Cross and St. John Ambulance about the First Aid Courses they run. She is going to contact the businesses at The Wharf which have indicated an interest in such courses, to find out if they are still interested.
The Village Hall has been hired twice recently by a group of people for a Pool Night. The Village Hall Committee hope that the new pool table will become an attraction and bookings of the Hall will increase.
The Village Hall Committee is considering experimenting with a Social Evening once a month in the Village Hall.
4. Housing and Planning, 5. Local Businesses and Employment and 8. Information and Communication. Mr. Baxter had been unwell and did not submit a report of his progress.
6. Emergency Services, Crime and Disorder. Mrs. Hall was disappointed that there had been very little response to the notice in “Round the Revel” and the separate fliers that had been delivered to every household in the parish asking for volunteers to be co-ordinators for a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. She planned to produce another flier to be inserted in the next edition of “Round the Revel” to encourage volunteers to come forward.
7. The Village Environment. Mr. Vallance and Mrs. Carter reported that stickers have been attached to the 2 green bins, near B4027, stating that dog waste as well as other litter may be placed in them.
“No Dog Fouling” notices for the parish have been requested but are still awaited.
The Clerk was asked to contact Sarah Butter (Rugby Area Partnership Team), to remind the Rugby Area Committee, (at the meeting on Thursday 25th Sept.,) that this Council is pressing for the reconstruction of the footway along side the B4027 between Newbold Revel Drive and the Fosse Way/B4027 junction.
THE “ADOPT A KIOSK SCHEME”
B.T. is offering the P.C. the opportunity to retain the telephone kiosk, without the payphone, for historical or aesthetic reasons. Councillors unanimously agreed that the P.C. should apply to adopt Stretton’s kiosk so that it can continue to form a focal part of the community. The Clerk was asked to write and send the application to B.T.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) W.C.C. Minerals Local Development Framework (M.L.D.F.)- Summary Statement and Request for Potential Strategic Sites. W.C.C. is preparing an M.L.D.F. for the period until 2026. Any sites submitted for consideration should be sent to W.C.C. by Oct. 31st 2008.
B) W.C.C. Medium Grants Scheme:- Another application form and guidance notes have been received. This information was e-mailed to all Councillors on 8th August. The closing date for applications is 26th September.
C) W.C.C. Heavy Goods Monitoring Form:- The Traffic Projects Group has produced a form to be completed by those feeling strongly about H.G.Vs. travelling through villages. The forms can be downloaded from the W.C.C. website. Over a period of 3 – 4 weeks those interested should collect the date, time and company name information of H.G.Vs. seen in the village, and record them on the form. Completed forms should be sent to W.C.C. Traffic Projects Group.
D) Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull Biodiversity Action Plan:- A survey to be returned by Sept.30th.
E) W.C.C. Rugby Area Committee:- The next meeting is to be held on 25th Sept.
F) E.ON Energy Services:- E.ON has completed the acquisition of the Public Lighting Division of ABB Ltd.
G) R.B.C. Consultation on the Future of Rugby:- In Sept. and Oct. the Council and its partners will be consulting on 2 key strategies that will shape the future of our Borough: Rugby Sustainable Community Strategy (identifies the type of Borough that the local community would like to see in the future) and Planning “Core Strategy”( a key planning document that will shape the physical development of the Borough for the next 20 years). The Consultation will end on 31st Oct. Comments are invited.
H) Central Warwickshire Villages Leader Project:- R.B.C. is working on a bid to secure £1.5m of funding from a European initiative that will benefit parishes in the Rugby Warwick district. They now need residents of the area to submit ideas that can potentially draw on these funds. There is particular emphasis on artwork and performances, community garden schemes and voluntary and community activities.
I) The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 – Section 55: Notice of the proposal to make Dog Control Orders. Information about this was received by the Clerk on 19th Sept. so Councillors were unable to study the proposed Orders before the meeting. Mr. Collins offered to take the information home to study.
STREET LIGHTING
The Clerk said she had not been notified about the allocation of grants from the Parish Capital Spending Fund. She offered to contact R.B.C. the next day to find out whether the P.C’s application for funding had been successful. If unsuccessful, another source of funding would be needed. Mr. Collins suggested that the Clerk apply to BIFFA. It was decided that any future application would be for a replacement lamp on the corner of Malt Kiln Lane/Main St., an additional lamp near the new Bus Stop i.e. near the B4027/Fosse Way junction and an additional lamp on the grass verge outside the “Old Forge” in Main St..
PUBLIC FOOTPATH NEAR TOWER COTTAGES
The new owner of the land near Tower Cottages has obstructed the Public Footpath by putting an electric fence around the perimeter of his fields. An alternative route is available round the outside of the electric fence. Mrs. Collins (voluntary parish footpath officer) has notified W.C.C. Countryside Recreation Dept. Mr. Collins said that a W.C.C. Footpath Officer had met the owner of the land today. It was thought that the owner might apply to have the footpath diverted.
The diagonal footpath from the corner of Newbold Revel’s main drive and Smite Brook to meet footpath R299 is to be realigned (by W.C.C.), to the correct position.
PLANNING: None
FINANCE
A) Audit:- The External Auditors have completed the audit of the annual return for the year ended 31st. March 2008. No matters have come to their attention giving concern.
B) Cheques: Since the last meetings the following had been authorised:-
No.209 £58.75 to Clement Keys for the external audit
At the meeting the following was authorised:-
No. 210 £74.26 to E.ON for quarterly street lighting maintenance.
C) Receipts: £962.50 from R.B.C. for half annual precept.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None
The date for the next meeting was set for 10th Nov. 2008
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 pm.
Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 4th August 2008, at 7.15pm.
Present: - Mr. E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Apologies were received from Mr G. Baxter (Chairman) and Rugby Borough Councillor A. Gillias.
In the absence of Mr. Baxter, Mr. Vallance took the Chair.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
PUBLIC PARTICPATION SESSION: None
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) Litter and Debris left by railway workers:- The Clerk has received an acknowledgement from Network Rail. The matter has been referred to the Maintenance Co-ordinator responsible for this area for investigation. Councillors thought the area had been tidied up since the letter was written.
B) Additional Street Lamps:- The Clerk reported that an acknowledgement has been received from R.B.C. regarding the Council’s application for a grant from Parish Capital Fund 2008/09, to fund 2 additional street lamps. The applications will be considered by Cabinet on 15th September. No decision was made on the position of the additional lamp in the village, if the funding was awarded.
C) Telephone Kiosk:- There has been no word from R.B.C. or B.T. about what is planned for the kiosk if the payphone is removed.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PARISH PLAN
Each Councillor reported on the progress being made on the sections of the Action Plan he/she is responsible for.
1. Transport and Highways. Mr. Collins has written to W.C.C. setting out the actions suggested in the Parish Plan adopted by the Council on the 31st March 2008 explaining residents’ concerns about the speed of traffic coming through the village. A reply suggested that this Council applies to the Rugby Area Committee for a grant from the delegated budget of £400,000, for safety and maintenance, considered in January 2009, for funding for traffic measures, which he was doing.
2. Social Entertainment& Leisure. Mrs. Hartshorn reported that there is to be a meeting of the Village Hall Committee on 12th August when the implementation of this section of the Parish Plan Action Plan will be discussed. Regarding access for disabled people: there is a portable ramp, stored inside the Village Hall, that can be put over the steps near the pavement when needed. The Parish Council thought no improvement could be made.
3. Retail and other Facilities. Mrs. Hartshorn has had an informal discussion with Mr. C. Lea about the creation of some designated parking spaces for the disabled. Mr. Lea has said he will look into it.
4. Housing and Planning, 5. Local Businesses and Employment and 8. Information and Communication. Mr. Baxter was not at the meeting and did not submit a report of his progress.
6. Emergency Services, Crime and Disorder. Following the well attended Annual Meeting of Electors on 2nd June at which Paul Hancox spoke of the importance of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, Mrs. Hall put a notice in the July edition of “Round the Revel” asking for volunteers to become part of a team of co-ordinators for the village. She reported that no-one had volunteered. Wil Weininger, this area’s Safer Neighbourhood Team member, suggested to her that a leaflet drop might make people think about becoming a co-ordinator. Mrs. Hall said that she would produce a flier to insert in the next edition of “Round the Revel” before it is distributed in the village.
7. The Village Environment. Mr. Vallance and Mrs. Carter have asked R.B.C. to provide penalty notices, to display in the parish, to deter dog owners from allowing their dogs to foul the footpaths. So far R.B.C. has not answered the question. However, the stickers to put on the 2 green bins in the parish, stating that they are to be used for dog waste only, are now in stock and will be put in position shortly.
Mr. Vallance and Mrs. Carter have got support from County Councillor Phillip Morris-Jones in trying to persuading W.C.C to repair the footpath along B4027 from Stretton Lodge to near the Fosse Way junction. They have been advised that Rugby Area Committee is to propose that the footpath is repaired – possibly to be considered at a meeting in January. They are to get an estimate from Mr. P. Cowley (County Highways – Rugby Area Manager), for the work needed to be carried out to upgrade the footpath.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) W.C.C. Footpath R71:- Information details of the confirmation of Public Path Extinguishment Order for footpath R71. The order comes into force on 16th July 2008.
B) Receipt from Mr. Moss, Treasurer of “Round the Revel”, for the Council’s £50 donation.
C) R.B.C. Policy Enforcement Policy Statement: formal Consultation 5th July – 26th August 2008 R.B.C. is producing a Planning Enforcement Policy Statement which will set out how planning enforcement operates within the Borough in terms of powers available and priorities that will be adopted in dealing with complaints and alleged breaches of planning control. R.B.C. would be grateful for P.C’s comments on the enclosed statement.
D) W.C.C. Speed Limit Review – Formal Consultation (Rugby):- The formal public notices and drawings, advertising the speed limit proposals within Rugby. The proposals were e-mailed to Councillors on 14th July. It is proposed to put a 50mph speed limit on B4027, excluding the 30mph speed limits in villages. Objections must received by W.C.C by 8th August.
E) Notes taken at the Joint Rugby Area Committee and Rugby Borough Council Meeting held on 25th June 2008:- for information. Additional information about Post Office closures is enclosed.
F) Consumer Council For Water:- Four times a year , Consumer Council for Water Central and Eastern meet in public with the water companies to hold the companies to account, scrutinise the services they are providing to customers and discuss topical issues. A schedule for this year’s meetings is enclosed and has been displayed on the P.C. notice board.
G) Harris School: - W.C.C. has sent Formal Consultation – Proposal to Increase the Admission Number of Harris School. The proposals were e-mailed to Councillors on 1st July. The closing date for comments is 18th July 2008.
H) R.B.C. Customer & Information Services:- Research is being carried out into improving the access to information R.B.C. hold and the potential to display large scale documents such as plans at meeting halls via a wireless internet connection, use of laptop and projecting equipment. The enclosed questionnaire is to be completed and returned by the Clerk.
I) W.C.C Waymarking public rights of way:- The design of the official waymarkers for footpaths and bridleways has been improved and a new material is being used which should help to eliminate the problems caused by the discs fading. The change will be made gradually as and when W.C.C., Countryside Recreation staff visit paths or carry out works.
STREET LIGHTING
The street lamp on the corner of Main St. and Malt Kiln Lane is not working. ABB sent an electrician to the site on 17th July who found that the pole bracket is beyond repair and will require replacing. ABB have estimated that to remove and dispose of the existing pole bracket, lantern and gear and to supply and install 1 no. straight pole bracket complete with lantern, lamp and gear would be £275.00. To transfer 1 no. overhead service from old pole bracket to new pole bracket installed in same position would be £274.00. Making a total cost of £549.00 excluding VAT.
The Clerk has calculated that the bank balance at the end of this financial year will be approx. £471.22. Therefore the Council hasn’t got the funds to repair the lamp at present.
The Clerk wondered if it would be possible, to use part of any money awarded to the Council, if their application for a grant from the Parish Capital Fund was successful, on the repair of this lamp instead of installing an additional lamp in the village. Otherwise, the lamp would not be repaired until the next financial year.
ROAD NAMES
Mrs. E. Collins asked the Clerk to include this item on the agenda. Over the years the old names for the roads and lanes in the parish have been changed. Councillors said they would talk to older people in the village and people who used to live in the village and try to establish the old names that were used.
PLANNING
A)R08/0653/HOUS 5, Main Street. Planning Permission granted for the erection of a first floor extension to rear (resubmission). Condition 3 states that the first floor windows to be formed in the rear (north-west) elevation wall, and the side (north-east) facing window shall not be glazed or reglazed other than with obscure glass permanently fixed with only a top opening light.
B) The Linhay, 2 Home Farm Barns R.B.C. Planning Enforcement Officer has visited the site and seen the area of hardstanding in the garden. He considers the amount to be not excessive and it would not be expedient to pursue enforcement action.
FINANCE
A) Bank Balance: On 30/06/08 there was £212.12 in the Current Account and £923.22 in the Business Instant Access Account
B) Cheques: Since the last meeting the following was authorised:-
No. 206 £85.93 to E.on for quarterly electricity supply
At the meeting the following cheques were authorised:-
No. 207 £64.75 to R.B.C. for election expenses
No. 208 £5.90 to Mrs. E. Collins for petrol to fuel strimmer for footpath clearance
Mrs. Carter claimed £1.60 for expenses incurred when implementing the Parish Plan Action Plan.
This money is to be paid out of the £4 petty cash the Clerk drew from the bank for this purpose.
REPORT ON THE FOSSE LOCALITY PANEL MEETING
Mr. Vallance gave the following report.
Mrs. Carter and Mr. Vallance attended a meeting on 24th June. Meeting Chaired by County Councillor Phillip Morris-Jones
Addressed by Chief Inspector Bob Musgrove
1) Crime overall in Borough: Violent Crime down by 33%, theft from motor vehicles down by 31.8%
Crime in our area: Violent crime – none, house burglaries - down by 29%, criminal damage - down by 8%
We can request signs re - speeding through village. Hand held speed guns can be obtained via Wil.
Neighbourhood Watch schemes improves insurance premiums.
2) Sports Development Work in Rugby Borough: Addressed by Ross Alexander Sports Dev: Officer RBC
Spoke about the range of sports opportunities available to young people. Particularly aimed at diverting them from antisocial behaviour after school and in school holidays.
3) Rural Developments: Addressed by Rob Black Planning Policy Manager
a) Travellers - Problems with Travellers in Barnacle. All Councils across the country have a duty to provide sites for Travellers, numbers laid down by government.
b) Parish Plans - Seen as a good thing some parishes have not yet devised. Others like ourselves devised and being actioned.
4) Children's Centres in Rugby: Addressed by Julie Toal, Area Manager, Development Service Early Years and Childcare Children, Young People and Families
Updated us on the development of Children's Centres in Rugby with specific reference to rural areas.
5) Post Office closures: issued with press release dated 24 June 2008
Affected post offices Shilton, Clifton and Bramcote Barracks.
Next meeting planned for Tuesday 30 September 2008 7.30pm - 9pm to be held at Pailton.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None
The date for the next meeting was set for 22nd September.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.10 pm.
Minutes of an extraordinary meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 2nd June 2008, at 7.30.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr .E. Vallance (Vice Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Hartshorn “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
1. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None
2. CO-OPTION: Mrs. S Hartshorn was co-opted on to the Council. The Clerk to notify The Election Officer at The Town Hall.
3. DECLARATION FORMS: All Councillors signed “Declaration of Acceptance of Office” forms.
4. MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT: Mr. Vallance and Mrs. Hartshorn completed The Local Authorities (Model Code of Conduct) Order 2007: Notification by a Member of a parish Council of Personal Interests, form A. The Clerk is to send the forms to R.B.C’s. Monitoring Officer.
5. SIGNATURIES ON P.C. CHEQUES: The form from Lloyd’s Bank to authorise new signatories on P.C. cheques was completed. The Clerk is to return it to Lloyds.
6. THE PARISH PLAN ACTION PLAN: Since the last meeting Mr. Collins had rewritten part of the P.P. Action Plan, lengthening some time scales within which action was expected to be carried out. The new action plan had been e-mailed to Councillors before the meeting.
Mr Collins proposed that the Council adopts the new Parish Plan Action Plan. Mr. Baxter seconded the motion. Mrs. Carter was against the proposal because in her opinion, priority of the budget should be given to additional street lighting.
Following a discussion the motion was carried with a proviso that the cost of an additional street lamp near The Wharf, must be paid for before any money is spent on other improvements.
Mr. Collins suggested that each Councillor chooses a topic in the Parish Plan to work on. Councillors are to advise the Clerk within 2 weeks which topics they will take responsibility for. Councillors agreed to this suggestion.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Monday 23rd June 2008
Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
Financial Year 2008/2009
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Parish Council
held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Tuesday 20th May 2008 at 19.15
Present: Councillors Mr. G. Baxter, Mrs S Carter, Mr D Collins and Mr E Vallance and Mrs S Hartshorn and Mrs E A Collins.
Apologies received from Mrs Janet Hall (Clerk), Rugby Borough Councillors Campbell and Gillias.
Election of Chairman.
Mrs. Carter proposed that Mr Baxter be elected as Chairman for the year, seconded by Mr Baxter with Mr Collins and Mr Vallance abstaining. Mr Baxter was duly elected as Chair.
Vice-Chairman
Mr Collins proposed that Mr Vallance be elected as Vice Chairman for the year, seconded by Mr Baxter and Mr Vallance was unanimously elected as Vice Chair.
Declarations of Acceptance
That these Declarations for the Chair and Councillors be received at the next meeting of the Council on the 2nd June 2008.
Statement of Account for year end 31st March 2008
Received and approved by the Council and signed by the Chairman.
An Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council followed
Present:- Mr G Baxter (Chairman)
Mrs S Carter (Councillor)
Mr D B Collins (Councillor)
Mr E Vallance (Councillor)
Mrs E A Collins and Mrs S Hartshorn
Apologies received from Mrs. Janet Hall (Clerk) and Rugby Borough Councillors Campbell and Gillias.
There were no declarations of personal or prejudicial interest
The Minutes of the Meeting on the 31st March 2008 were approved as a true record and signed by the Chairman.
Implementation of the Parish Plan
Mr Collins read an extract from an e mail received from Richard Cowell Senior Planning Officer (Forward Planning) Rugby Borough Council: “It (the Parish Plan) is a very well presented document that is clear about the issues facing the Parish and the actions required. If it is possible I would like to use it in future as an example of best practice for future Parishes wishing to produce such documents.”
Mrs Carter expressed concern as to how the various actions set out in the Plan would be financed having regard to the limited amount the Council had available and the desire to have new street lighting in the area of The Wharf.
Mr Collins explained, using the first item in the Action Plan as an example, that the Parish Council would need to contact the County Council to explore the actions proposed, for example to extend the 30 mph restriction further out of the village. Following meeting with the County Council representatives it must be established whether the County Council would be in a position to fund the work, otherwise the Council can borrow money and repay the lender. Mr Collins had obtained information from the Warwickshire Association of Local Councils which he would be passing on to the Clerk for action.
He explained that the first action the Council had to take was to prepare its own Action Plan; the Council could simply adopt the Action Plan set out by the Steering Group with the timescale of for example 2008 by setting its own time scale which would still have to be a meaningful scale. The Final Plan would be printed and available for distribution by it was expected 24th/25th May but the Action Plans in the Draft circulated amongst all the residents had not been changed. It was agreed that using the draft Councillors would go through the Action Plans and establish whether or not any changes had to be made to the timescale for the meeting on the 2nd June 2008.
Street Lighting
The Clerk was asked to follow up the information as to taking out a loan over a number of years, spreading the cost and short term loans.
As both proposed lights were in dark areas where there was no street lighting at present or none sufficiently near the Chairman suggested this raised a Health and Safety issue to support a future application for funding.
Part of Footpath R71
Mr Collins advised that the Extinguishment Order had been made on the 14th May and in the absence of any objections would be effective from the 14th June.
CORRESPONDENCE
Stray Dogs legislation
A change in the legislation means that as from 6th April 2008 Police Stations will no longer accept stray dogs.
The duty has now been passed to local authorities to collect and detain stray dogs and Rugby Borough Council at a meeting on the 17th March 2008 resolved to review the situation in 6 months time so that the impact of the changes can more accurately be measured.
The current service as at April 2008 is if you find a stray dog during the day (Monday – Friday 0900 -1500) you should contact the Animal Warden Services on 01942 814300 or the Council on 01788 533881. Outside normal hours please contact the “out of hours” reporting line on 01527 551880 or the Animal Warden number on 01942 814300. Please note there is no collection service outside of the standard hours but you will be contacted the next working day to make the appropriate arrangements for collection of the stray dog.
An injured stray dog found outside office hours may be reported to the RSPCA on 0870 5555 999. Dangerous dogs and dogs that are worrying livestock may remain Police responsibility; as such they should be reported to your local Police Station.
Code of Conduct for Parish Councillors : Annual Training Sessions
3 training sessions for councillors and clerks on the Code of Conduct for Parish Councils will be held on 10th and 13th June and 2nd Sept. Clerk to notify R.B.C. of those wishing to attend by 3rd June. Mrs. Carter will attend on 10th June and the Clerk on 2nd September.
Provision of parish level documents on R.B.C’s website
Since the last meeting the Clerk had received a letter from Richard Cowell, Senior Planning Officer (Forward Planning) asking if this P.C. had any objections to parish level documents (including Housing Needs Surveys, Parish Plans and Village Design Statements) becoming available on it’s website. As a reply was needed by 10th May, all Councillors were e-mailed by the Clerk, asking for their opinion. There were no objections.
Annual Meeting of Electors
This was fixed for Monday 2nd June 2008 and the only business being the review by the Chairman of the Parish Council meetings for the year end 31st March it was agreed the meeting be followed by an ordinary meeting of the Parish Council. The Clerk was to be asked if any arrangements had been made for a guest speaker at the Annual Meeting.
Footway between Stretton Lodge and the Fosse Way junction
Mrs Carter reported on a conversation that she had had on the afternoon of the 20th May with Paul Cowley from Rugby Borough Council who had stated the footpath had now so disintegrated that it could not be repaired and the path was in the 5 year plan to carry out a reconstruction at a cost of £40,000. This gave considerable concern to Councillors as they understood that at a meeting of the Rugby Area Committee on the 27th March 2008 under item 12RUG/08-09 this path was in the Minor Improvements programme for the Rugby area for 2008 – 2009 at an estimated cost of £40,000. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr.John Deegan Warwickshire County Council, Mr Christopher Lucas at Rugby Borough Council and copy to Philip Morris-Jones expressing this Council’s grave concern as to the discrepancy in the information being received stressing the state of the path which is now in a dangerous condition and seeking clarification of when in fact this reconstruction will be effected.
Litter and debris left by workmen working of the railway
At its meeting on the 31st March Mrs Carter had raised the issue of litter being left near the road bridge by the entrance to the trackside at the site of the former Brinklow Station and Councillors mentioned that in addition what seemed to be abandoned materials had been left on the embankment viewable from the road, by a workmen’s area in Smeaton Lane and seemingly thrown onto the ground (or fallen from a works train) onto a footpath by a tunnel under the railway through which the footpath runs.
Whilst the work was being carried out by contractors on behalf of Network Rail such as Jarvis plc, there were other sub contractors working on the railway and the Clerk was asked to write in the appropriate terms to the Managing Director of Network Rail Infrastructure Limited, 40 Melton Street, London NW1 2EE.
PLANNING
5 Main Street
The Council considered this resubmission of plans for a first floor extension. Mr Collins explained that he had tried to contact Mr and Mrs Riseborough on a number of occasions without success to try and understand what was the change proposed. The Council considered the application and had regard to Policy H22, extensions to houses in a Local Needs Settlement (which Stretton under Fosse is) and considered that this extension was not disproportionate to the original building accepting that the original building had been extended in the 1950s by the small ground floor area over which the proposed extension was to be built. The Council’s concern remained, that the plan showed seemingly new first floor windows to both sides of the extension and two windows at the rear, those to the East and to the North overlooking the property The Elms, 7 Main Street. If consent is granted for this extension the Council would wish those windows to be replaced by skylights or opaque glazed units (or a combination) so that 7 Main Street is not overlooked.
The Clerk is asked to advise Rugby Borough Council of this Council’s views.
The Linhay
R08/0524/HOUS Reapplication for the retention and repositioning of the existing boundary fence.
The Chairman had previously asked the Clerk to send in the P.C’s response to this application as the consultation period ended before this meeting.
“This Council does not objection to the fence providing it meets highway safety regulations regarding adequate visibility along B4027 to the left on egress.
This Council is reliant on County Highways Safety Officers to check the visibility with the repositioned fence in place.
The Council has noticed that there is some hard standing in the garden of the Linhay. It is under the impression that this is not allowed on Green Belt land. Please would you let the council know the rules regarding this matter.”
Planning Permission Granted on 15/05/08
To date the Planning Dept. has not answered the question about hard standing.
Police Community Support Officer
Mrs Carter reported that she had contacted the new PCSO Wilhelm Weininger who had been unable to attend this meeting but he was interested in supporting a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.
In the 12 months from 20th May 2007 to 20th May 2008 he had advised the number of reported incidents for Stretton under Fosse as R.T.C. 1, Theft 3, Abandoned vehicle 0, Rowdy/Nuisance 1 (bottle of sauce thrown from moving vehicle over a pedestrian), Burglary non dwelling 4, Stolen Motor Vehicles 2, Theft from Motor Vehicle 10, Burglary Dwelling 1.
PCSO Weininger’s contact details 01788 541111 extension 3845 Voice mail 16169 e mail Wilhelm.weininger@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk
FINANCE
Payments
The following were authorised:
Subscription to W.A.L.C. £80
Insurance Premium £262.39p + 5%
Round the Revel £50
Philip Hooper £1650 for design and printing of the Parish Plan
Since the last meeting
No. 198 to Greenways garden Services £350.00 for work on Public Footpaths.
No. 199 to E.on Energy £85.93 for quarterly electricity supply.
Receipts
A half precept payment of £962.50 has been received from R.B.C.
Audit
The Clerk has received the Annual Return from the External Auditors. It is to be completed and returned by 6th August. The Internal Auditor is to be given the financial books shortly.
Next Meeting
Monday 2nd June 2008 Agenda Items to include filling the vacancy for a Parish Councillor by co-opting Mrs Susan Hartshorn and to receive declarations of acceptance of office.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 21.15.
Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall
on Monday 31st March 2008.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Lindsay “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
Mr. E. Vallance
5 members of the Parish Plan Steering Group
Apologies were received from Mr. N. Campbell (Rugby Borough Councillor).
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest.
TO ADOPT THE PARISH PLAN in the terms of the draft presented.
The Parish Council had read the draft Parish Plan. The Chairman (on behalf of the Parish Council) thanked the Parish Plan Steering Group for their excellent work. The Parish Council was impressed with the group’s organisation. Mrs. Darke explained that the finished copy of the plan will be better than the draft, as it will be fully illustrated.
The Chairman proposed that the Parish Council pass a resolution adopting the Parish Plan. Mr. Collins seconded the motion which was unanimously approved.
Mr. Collins brought the Chairman’s attention to other Parish Plans where there is a difference between what is expected to be done by the Parish Council and the Parish Clerk. When the new Parish Council takes office (after 5th May) the Parish Plan should be implemented. Mrs. Darke said the Parish Plan Steering Group know that this is a huge task. Mr. Collins suggested that the P.P.S.G. works with the P.C. to make sure that the plans are implemented. Mr. Baxter said that a joint effort would achieve as many points as possible.
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) Footpath between “Stretton Lodge” and Fosse Way/ B4027 junction.
The Council is still awaiting confirmation that this path is /is not on the restructure programme for 2008/09. There is a possibility that it might be added to the programme following an assessment.
At a Fosse Locality Panel meeting on 18th March, Mrs. Lindsay asked County Councillor Phillip Morris Jones to support Stretton P.C. in its campaign to get this footway repaired. Since then Cllr Morris Jones has written to Mr. P. Cowley, Rugby Area Manager, County Highways, (copy to Mrs. Hall) pointing out the defects and asking for “early remedial measures”. Mrs. Carter has telephoned Mr. Lucas (Area Surveyor) to complain about the disrepair of the path. Cllr Gillias suggested writing to the Director of Department of Planning, Transport and Economic Prosperity at W.C.C.. Mrs. Carter said she would telephone him to complain. The Clerk was asked to write to him and copy in Cllr. Morris Jones.
B) Mr. Collins thanked the Clerk for organising the Litter Pick.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION None
C) Consultation on the Planning Application Local Validation List: - From 6th April all applications are to be submitted on the National Standard Planning Application Form. Any comments regarding this method of apply for planning permission should reach the Town Hall by 27th March.
ELECTION
The Clerk distributed Nomination Papers to those interested in standing for the election on 1st May. Councillors wishing to be nominated completed the 2 forms and gave them to the Clerk. Mrs. Lindsay offered to deliver the forms to the Town Hall.
PLANNING
R08/0350/PLN Application to erect a dual purpose equestrian/ agricultural building and ménage on land off Smeaton Lane.
This would be in the parish of Coombe Fields but Stretton P.C. has been invited to comment. The Council had no objections. Mr. Collins asked the Clerk to suggest to R.B.C. that it could impose a condition, if it approved this development, that the stile access to the footpath from the roadside across the land, should be improved to W.C.C. standard.
REPORT OF FOSSE LOCALITY MEETING
Mrs. Lindsay attended a meeting on 18th March. Police presence in villages was discussed. It was suggested that Village Halls could be used for “drop in” sessions. Interested parishes should apply to P.S.C.Os. Paul Hancocks would like to hear from parishes wanting to reintroduce Neighbourhood Watch. H.G.Vs. 2 surveys have been carried out at Magna Park roundabout on the A5 and it has shown that there is not a problem with heavy traffic going through villages on their way to and from Magna Park. There is construction traffic involved in developments at Peter Hall Lane and the Western Relief Road temporarily travelling through villages. Planning- There will be no developments in rural areas unless there is a local need. Post Offices – R.B.C. is interested in people's views about local Post Offices and how they can be kept going. Mrs. Lindsay asked for a) additional lighting at Fosse Way/B4027 junction, b) the safety of animals when fireworks are let off near livestock pasture and c) the repair of the footpath between Stretton Lodge and Fosse Way/B4027 junction, to be put on the agenda for the next Fosse locality Panel Meeting.
PARISH FOOTPATHS
W.C.C. has received an application to extinguish part of Public Footpath R71. This path runs through the garden of no. 11 Main Street. Mr. Baxter proposed that the Council supports the extinguishment of part of this path, Mrs. Carter seconded the motion. The Clerk was asked to write to W.C.C. stating that this P.C. is averse to the closure of Public Footpaths but this is an exception as it goes through a private garden and there is a simple alternative route.
Mrs. Collins (Stretton’s P3 Officer) gave a report of recent work carried out in the parish. The P.C. supports the work being done.
WARWICKSHIRE BEST VILLAGE COMPETITION
Mr. Collins explained that Mr. Patalong (W.R.C.C.) recommended to the P.P.S.G. that Stretton entered the competition this year. There are various categories. Mr. Collins proposed that the P.C. enters the Communications Section and the Property Section. There was unanimous agreement. Mr. & Mrs. Collins offered to complete the application form.
FINANCE
A) Payments: Since the last meeting the following cheques had been authorised:-
No.195 to Stretton Under Fosse Village Hall Committee £90.00 rent for P.P.S.G. meetings.
No. 196 to Mrs. S. J. Hall £418.13 for half annual salary.
At the meeting the following cheque was authorised:-
No. 197 to ABB Ltd. £66.27 for quarterly street lighting maintenance.
B) Receipts: Up to 10th March, £29.34 had been received in bank interest.
C) Greenway garden Services has issued a quotation for work to be carried out on the Public Footpaths in the parish. Total cost will be £350.00. The quotation was approved. The cost is to come out of the W. C. C. P3 Grant received 1/8/06.
D) Insurance: - Jardine Lloyd Thompson confirms holding cover on the additional bench with a sum insured of £400. The additional premium of £1.40 (up to renewal date of 1st June 2008, on existing policy) has been waived.
ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING
A) Lack of Police presence. Mrs. Carter said that 2 vans had been stolen from The Wharf and 1 car had been broken into. The owners had reported the incidents to the Police but the Police had not been out to investigate.
B) Litter near the railway. Mrs. Carter said that there is a lot of litter on the roadside near the railway bridge, left by Network Rail employees.
The date for the next meeting was set for Monday 12th May, but later changed to 20th May.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.45 pm.
STRETTON under FOSSE PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall
on Monday 11th February 2008, at 7.30
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Chairman)
Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
Mrs. S. Carter “
Mrs. S. Lindsay “
Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
Mr. E Vallance, Mr. J. Print and Mrs. T. Darke.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION
Mr. Print requested the Council to ask the Parish Plan Steering Group to have an open discussion with parishioners. Mrs. Carter was in favour of the request. Mr. Collins and Mr. Baxter thought that there had been more than adequate consultation already. The request was refused. Mr. Print asked what percentage of planning applications was supported. The Council was unable to answer this question immediately. The Clerk offered to let Mr. Print know the figures after checking the records. Mr. Print said it was his opinion that the Council was objecting to a large proportion of proposed developments. Councillors explained that each application was considered individually and the final decision was made by R.B.C..
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING were read and signed as being a true record.
MATTERS ARISING
A) “Give Way” sign on Fosse way approaching Fosse Way B4027 junction: - The Clerk had asked W.C.C. to repair this sign. The Area Surveyor reported later that the sign is correct as it is.
B) Tarmac around manhole cover on Fosse way near Smeaton Lane junction: - The Clerk asked W.C.C. to repair this tarmac. The Area Surveyor reported later that the tarmac is just beginning to break up and it would not be repaired at this stage.
C) Footpath between Stretton Lodge and the Fosse Way/B4027 Junction: - The Clerk reported that this path is not on the restructure programme for 2008/09. However, it will be assessed and if deemed a priority it will be added to the list. Mrs. Carter said the press should be informed. Mrs. Lindsay asked the Clerk to find out the date of the assessment. Cllr. Gillias suggested that if it was not added to the list after the assessment, then letters to John Deegan (Director of Planning Transport and Economic Strategy at W.C.C.), County Cllr. Morris Jones, and our M.P. might cause the desired action.
CORRESPONDENCE
A) Fireworks: Letting off of fireworks where they could land on pasture endangering livestock: - A reply from Lorna Large (Environmental Protection Team Leader), says that fireworks are regulated by the Fireworks Regulations 2004 with no specific reference made regarding livestock. R.B.C. have little power available to deal with this type of issue. An awareness campaign on the potential harm of animals is not likely in the foreseeable future.
B) R.B.C. Core Strategy Options Discussion Paper: Formal Consultation 21st Jan – 3rd March 2008. Mr. Collins offered to complete and return the questionnaire.
C) W.C.C. Speed Limit Review Consultation: A and B Class Roads. Comments welcomed on the proposed recommendations. Mr. Collins took the document to forward to the Parish Plan Steering Group.
D) W.C.C. Property Review: - Preparing a plan showing Local Authority and its partners’ property ownership, which will be shared with other contributors, and look at possibilities for property sharing and improved efficiency of property use. Comments invited.
E) Council for the Protection of Rural England, “Midlands Green Belt Study 2007”:- for information. Mr. Collins took the document to forward to the Parish Plan Steering Group.
F) R.B.C. Rural Development Fund 2007/08:- P.C’s application for funding for additional street lighting was unsuccessful.
G) Communities and Local Government, Consultation on Orders and Regulations Regarding to the Conduct of Local Authority Members in England. Comments are invited on this paper.
H) National Spring Clean 2008:- R.B.C. supports National Spring Clean and offers to lend litter picking sticks, black sacks and gloves to groups wishing to take part. Councillors decided to have a Litter Pick on Sunday March 30th. Volunteers to assemble at the Rugby Bus Stop at 10a.m.. An advert to be put in “Round the Revel” and on the noticeboard. The Clerk was asked to order equipment from R.B.C. and to arrange for the bags of litter to be collected from her house.
I) W.C.C. Implementation of part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004:- From 31st March 2008 this act will be implemented. New regulations and Statutory Guidance from the Secretary of State for Transport, published in December 2007, set out the framework for these changes. Decriminalised Parking Enfor
cement will become Civil Parking Enforcement.
J) W.A.L.C.:- the next meeting is on 27th February at Shilton Village Hall, at 7.30 p.m. Mr Baxter said he would attend.
PARISH PLAN UPDATE
The Parish Council had been given the minutes of the last 3 meetings of the Steering Group.
Mrs. Darke reported that Mr. P. Hooper was going to print the final document.
ADOPTION OF NEW STANDING ORDERS
Mr. Collins has revised the Standing Orders in respect of public participation at Council meeting, based on NALC’s model update.
Mr. Collins proposed that the Council adopt the amended Standing Orders. Mr. Baxter seconded the proposal, which was unanimously approved.
THE NEW BENCH
The Council was very pleased to see the new bench near Oak Tree Cottages, which was made, supplied and installed by the Prison Service College. The Clerk was asked to write to The Estates Manager, P.S.C., to thank him and his Staff for their time and effort. The Clerk was asked to arrange insurance for the bench, valued at £400.
ITEMS FOR “NEIGHBOURHOOD WALKS” MEETING
Cllr. Gillias is going to represent Fosse Ward at a government initiative to get Ward Councillors to see issues that concern parishes. Stretton Under Fosse P.C. is invited to let Cllr. Gillias know its concerns. The Clerk was asked to send the following bullet points to him: - The diversion of HGVs - weight restriction? The repair of footway between Stretton Lodge and B4027/Fosse Way junction. Communal recycling facilities for cardboard and plastics in rural areas. More street lighting. More road and pavement sweeping, especially in the autumn. More grass cutting between villages. Slabs/tarmac by new bus stop near Station House.
POSSIBLE ACTION PLAN FOR INTRODUCING TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES
Mrs. Lindsay suggested discussing an action plan. Mr. Collins said the Parish Plan Steering Group will identify problems and make an action plan. Councillors decided to wait until they have seen the P.P.S.G. action plan.
PLANNING
A) Archway over gateway to former graveyard: - Mr. Collins asked the Council if it was going to
wait patiently for the archway to be rebuilt, given that the owners have up to 5 years after planning
consent was given to complete the work. Mrs. Carter read out a letter from Mrs. Smith (owner of
the former graveyard), stating that the work cannot be completed until the boundary wall between
her garden and The Manor House garden has been rebuilt. Mr. Baxter (owner of The Manor House)
said he was having a lot of difficulty finding a builder willing to rebuild the boundary wall. It was
decided that no action should be taken.
B) The garden of “The Linhay”, Home Farm Barns: - The Clerk informed the Council that the Enforcement Officer, a Highways Safety Officer and the Case Officer met Mr. Canning on site in December. The garden is to be re-grassed. Mr. Canning is going to re-apply within the planning guidelines to keep the fence, but with some alterations.
C) Brinklow Quarry: - The application to process bottom ash was rejected as it would have been outside of the current development on the site. The application for change of use of farm buildings to in vessel composting units for green/kitchen waste, is on going.
D) R07/2169/PLN Building One, The Warehouse, Fosse Motor Engineers Ltd., The Wharf: - Retrospective permission granted for change of use from B8 (Storage and Distribution) to B2 (General Industry).
E) R08/0013/LBC Stretton Lodge: - Application for Listed Building Consent for internal alterations. Since the last meeting all Councillors had seen these plans and had no objections.
FINANCE
A) Payments : Since the last meeting the following cheques had been authorised:-
No. 190 to E.on £57.19 quarterly payment for electricity supply.
At the meeting the following cheques were authorised:-
No. 192 to Mrs. E. Collins £37.33 for refreshments at Parish Plan Consultation Meeting.
No. 193 to Stretton Under Fosse Village Hall Committee £50.00 rent for P.C. meetings.
No. 194 to Coventry University Enterprises £1,583.31 for the preparation of the Parish Plan Survey and report.
B) Street Lighting Maintenance Charges: - From 1st April 2008 the new total of the quarterly invoice for maintenance will be £63.20 excluding VAT.
C) Audit Commission: - Appointment of external auditor. The Audit Commission proposes to appoint Clement Keyes as auditor to S.U.F.. The appointment will be for a 5 year period commencing with the 2007/08 accounts. As the P.C. is content with the Commission’s proposal, there is no need to respond to the letter.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
There was no other business.
The date for the next meeting was set for 31st March 2008 at 7.15 p.m..
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.45 pm..
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