Minutes

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on Monday 28 January 2013 at 7.30pm at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn,
Mr D Middleton(Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)
 Mrs C Smith and Ms S McCabe (members of the public)

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

News from Rugby BC None

Approval of Minutes The Minutes of the Meetings on 10 December 2012 and 3 January 2013 were approved and signed.

Matters arising It appears some people were still not getting Neighbourhood Watch updates but it was difficult to know who they were.   An entry in the next edition of Round the Revel would be requested, asking people to notify the Clerk if they were not receiving updates.

Requests for Dispensation None 

Councillor Collins resignation    Following Councillor Collins’ resignation, the Council wished to record its appreciation of the contribution he had made over many years.  His input and experience will be missed.  
As a result of Councillor Collins' resignation, there was now a vacancy on the Council and Councillors were asked to approach anyone they felt might be interested with a view to co-opting them onto the Council.  Also an entry in Round the Revel would be requested asking anyone who might be interested to contact the Clerk and a notice would be pinned on the Notice Board and flyers circulated.
 A knock-on effect was that the Council would also need a new internal auditor.    Two suggestions were made, which would be followed up.
 
Correspondence None

Planning There was no objection to the proposals received for the replacement building at Fossecote Kennels.

Finance An up-to-date set of accounts were produced which indicated there should be a balance to transfer to Reserve at the end on the financial year.
 
Next Meeting 11 March 2013

 

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on Thursday 3 January  2013 at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins, Mr P Middleton (Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Precept The Clerk presented a budget for the ensuing year, indicating an anticipated expenditure of £2100.    The precept for last year was £2300 against an anticipated expense of £2100.  He pointed out that the Council Reserves were still well short of the amount recommended for Parish Councils by at least £400.   The need for restraint had been noted, but a precept of £2500 would be justified.
 
 The proposal was carried unanimously.

 

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on Thursday 3 January  2013 at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins, Mr P Middleton (Councillors);  Mr T Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor); Mr M Frith (Clerk) & 5 members of the public, Mrs C Smith, Mr B Ireland, Mr J Print, Mr R Handy and Ian Aitchison, Chairman of Coombe Fields Parish Council

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Planning Applications        A Planning Application by Mr & Mrs Smith relating to Smeaton Paddocks, Smeaton Lane being an application for change of use to the land to a private gypsy caravan site (permanent occupation) including the erection of a day room.

 After comment from the floor, the Chairman observed the original permission was limited to 4 years and queried what progress, if any, had been made towards the Borough Council finding an alternative site, as had been originally envisaged.

 Mr Gillias indicated a consultation would end in January about a site being adopted in 2014.

 Various comments were raised both from the floor and from councillors, concerning erosion of the Green Belt; support or otherwise from the community; the lack of problems and improvement to the site; its untidiness.

 Councillor Collins quoted from the Inspector’s Report from 2011 referring to the need for a lawful site, the site fitting in with the surroundings, the family’s integration in the community and Mr Smith’s health.  He said he supported the application for a permanent site but not for a permanent building on it.  This support was conditional on conditions :-   

        occupation to be for Mr & Mrs Smith and their dependants only;
        there to be no more than 2 caravans including 1 park home;
        there to be no commercial activity carried on;
        no storage of materials;
        the site to be screened by a close-boarded 2 metre fence and gates.
 He queried whether, if the Smiths were there permanently, they would still be classified as Gypsies or Travellers.

Both the Chairman and Councillor Vallance indicated they would not support a permanent site, or a permanent building, which was considered to be too large for the expressed requirement.

 It was pointed out from the floor that the building as applied for was bigger than a commercial new-build in Coton Meadows.   Mr Print enquired whether the caravans, or either of them, would be removed if the building was erected and indicated he would be happy if that were the case.   The reply was that the intention was that both caravans would remain.
 
 It was pointed out that the Planning Officer could not extend the present temporary permission – upon its expiry a new application would be required.

 A general discussion ensued involving all present, concerning the issues, including the size of the proposed building, any precedent it might set, its permanence and the impact on the environment.

 Given the predicament of the family at Smeaton Paddocks the  chairman commented that he would not be opposed to a temporary dayroom facility based on a suitably sized additional mobile home, and would be receptive to an extension or renewal of temporary occupancy while the present difficulties continue.

The general consensus, Councillor Collins dissenting, was that the Council opposed a permanent site and that the proposed building was too big and complex for what was needed by the applicants.

The Council decided to oppose the application.

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on Monday, 10 December  2012 at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins (Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)

Apologies Mr P Middleton

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

News from Rugby BC None

Minutes of Last Meeting The Minutes of the Meeting on 29 October were approved and signed

Matters arising Drainage.   There had been no reply from Rugby BC about the drainage problems.   A letter would be written to the Chief Executive.
 Neighbourhood Watch.   Jill Ward’s group were not now receiving information.  Councillor Mrs Hartshorn would contact her to ascertain who they were and would then notify the Clerk.   In the meantime the other  Group administrators – Janet Hall, Di Rhodes; Liz Collins and Thelma Treadwell would be contacted to ascertain the people to whom they disseminated information.

Declarations of Interest A new standing clause would appear on the Agenda in future as follows:-
   “To receive declarations of interest from Councillors on items on the Agenda
   To receive written requests for dispensations for disclosable pecuniary interests (if any)
      To grant any requests for dispensation as appropriate”
 Councillor Collins proposed that the Clerk be given delegated authority to grant dispensations for disclosable pecuniary interests.   Seconded by the Chairman and carried unanimously.

Precept It would appear that an insufficient precept may have been requested for the current year and the Clerk would try to ascertain how much had been requested.
 It was agreed that £2500 would be used as a starting point for next year’s precept.
 A further Meeting would be called when the confusion arising from Government about the precept had been clarified, in order to determine the amount of the precept for next year.

Borough Elections It was agreed that the proposal by Rugby to move to four yearly intervals for elections would be supported.

Housing Survey Councillor Collins felt it needed a formal conclusion and produced a draft he had prepared and which he proposed should be added to the results.   Seconded by Councillor Vallance and carried.   When completed the Survey would be sent to the Housing Dept of  Rugby BC.  It would also be placed on the village web-site and the fact publicised in Round the Revel.

Correspondence The only correspondence had been circulated.

Planning No applications had been notified.

Finance An up-to-date summary was circulated and cheques were authorised to be signed for E.on and the Clerk’s salary and expenses.
 
Next Meeting It was anticipated that a Meeting to determine the precept would be held on 14 January 2013, subject to alteration depending on information received.
 The next normal Meeting would be on 28 January 2013.

 

 
 Minutes
      of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on 29 October 2012 at 7.30pm at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mr P Middleton, Mr D Collins; Mrs S Hartshorn (Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)  

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

News from Rugby BC The Borough Council were taking over maintenance matters in the south of the Borough, as it does in the north.   A new crematorium was to be provided in Ashlawn Road.   Allowing the public to address Planning Meetings was under consideration.
 There were to be changes to Council Tax Benefit Support, which was to be reduced by a minimum of 15%, except for pensioner claimants, effective from April 2013.
A Community Infrastructure Levy was under consultation for new developments.   Stretton would be £50 per square metre under Zone B.   Zone A (urban development) would be £100.

Minutes The Minutes of the last Meeting on 17 September were approved

Matters Arising A notice re dog fouling had been put up at the entrance to the path in Farriers Close.   No reply had been received with regard to the drains.    A reminder would be sent.

Housing Needs Survey The Chairman would write up the results as a comparison with the last survey and circulate them.  In general the results were very similar to last time.

Publication of Minutes The draft Minutes would be circulated as soon as possible after the Meeting.   Councillors were asked to reply within 7 days., after which the Minutes could be published.

Precept To be carried forward to the next Meeting but the Clerk would prepare figures in advance for the Meeting.

Procedure for Planning Applications.   Applications received would be circulated.   Any Councillor who wished to do so could request a special Council meeting to discuss the application.

Overhanging bushes in Main Street.  The Clerk would speak to Mrs Blackburn to request they be cut back.

Neighbourhood Watch The Clerk would check the previous procedure with Mrs Hall.It was thought better for one person to circulate everyone and an advert was to be placed in the Revel asking people who wanted to go on the circulation list to let the Clerk have their e-mail addresses.

Correspondence  A letter had been received from Eon confirming all street light bulbs had been replaced and all covers cleaned.
 The County Council had asked for the P3 Agreement about footpath maintenance to be renewed.   The Chairman duly signed it.

Planning No applications notified.

Finance An update was provided.  

 For Next Meeting Precept.

Date of Next Meeting 10 December 2012 at 7.30pm. 

 

 

 

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on 17 September 2012 at 7.30pm at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mr P Middleton, Mr D Collins (Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)  

Apologies Mrs S Hartshorn

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

Minutes The Minutes of the last Meeting on 6 August were approved

Matters Arising The Clerk had written to the Highways Dept about the repairs needed to Smeaton Lane but had received no reply.

News from Rugby BC None

Precept Carry over to next Meeting

Housing Needs Survey About 50 replies had been received and would now be analysed by the Chairman and the Clerk.

Poors Piece The Chairman queried why the Council was getting involved in this.   Councillor Collins pointed out that the Council had to appoint two Trustees next Spring, but, in his view, needed answers to 5 questions before it could do so.  These essentially were  1 When was the land actually sold?
2   Why were the proceeds not invested in the Charities Official Investment Fund (COIF)
3 Did the Trustees pass a formal resolution to change the asset and copy it to the Charity Commission
4 Why have the Trustees been in breach of the terms of the Charity in the manner in which the income was distributed
5 No Christmas distribution should be made this year and a note put in Round the Revel to explain why.
It was pointed out that any aggrieved person had the right to refer matters to the Charity Commissioners (CC’s) and it was queried whether the Council had any right to raise queries about the running of the Trust or, indeed , any responsibility other than to appoint two Trustees.
Councillor Collins felt it was relevant because the Council had to be satisfied, when making the appointment, that the appointees were competent to act.
The Chairman voiced the opinion that the Council’s responsibility started and stopped with the appointment of Trustees and proposed that no further action be taken.
The proposition was put to the vote and carried by a majority of three to one with Councillor Collins abstaining.

Dog Fouling Concerns had been raised with the Council about the amount of dog fouling occurring in Baxter’s Field which had reached epidemic and totally unacceptable proportions.
The Clerk said that Rugby Council had been approached about the possibility of having a dog waste bin at the entrance to the field but they were not able to put it on private land and did not like having one adjacent to residential property.  Moreover they would want a contribution to the cost of about £280.
Councillor Collins said he had ascertained that the Council would provide a notice warning of fouling and pointing out the penalties, similar to the one in Malt Kiln Lane.   The Council were to contact Councillor Collins in the morning to confirm the Notice would be put in place on the gate to the field.   

Correspondence  None

Planning No applications received.

Finance An update was provided.   The second instalment of the precept had been received.

 For Next Meeting Precept

Date of Next Meeting 29 October at 7.30pm. 

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held at 7.30pm on 6 August 2012 at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins (Councillors);  Mr P Middleton; Mr T Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor); Mr M Frith (Clerk)

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

New Councillor Councillor Collins proposed that Mr Phillip Middleton be appointed as a Councillor to fill the present vacancy.  This was seconded by Councillor Hartshorn and Mr Middleton’s appointment was agreed unanimously.

Approval of Minutes With minor amendments the Minutes of the Meeting on 25 June were approved
 With an amendment indicating that Councillor Hartshorn was concerned about the size of the building  relevant to the Smeaton Lane Planning Application, the Minutes of the Meeting on 23 July were approved.

Matters arising The Clerk was asked to write to Rugby BC requesting more permanent repairs be carried out to the road area by the bridge in Smeaton Lane.
 A check was to be made to ensure that Planning Applications now come to the Clerk.
 Councillor Collins encouraged councillors to read the pamphlet “How to respond to Planning Applications”.

Housing Needs Survey It was imperative to make a start on this.  The Chairman and the Clerk would get together to construct a survey which would be delivered by hand by all councillors and the Clerk who would divide the houses between them.  The forms would later be collected by hand.

Poor’s Piece Councillor Collins requested a letter be sent to all the Trustees of the Charity as a result of the chance discovery that the land forming the asset of the Charity had been sold.  He pointed out that the governing document for the Charity was still the Scheme of 25 June 1918 providing that the Council had the power to appoint two of the trustees for a four-year term, which expires, in the case of the present Trustees, in March 2013.
 He said the Council needed answers to several questions, being;
  Did the Trustees obtain a qualified surveyors report recommending the sale? Was there a resolution considering the report?
When was the land sold and where were the net proceeds invested?
  Why was the Parish Council not advised of the sale, albeit as a matter of courtesy? 
 The Chairman was of the view that a letter would be excessive in the circumstances
 And suggested a better course of action would be for him to approach the Trustees personally.  This was agreed.
News from Rugby BC There were changes being made to the Council Tax Benefit Scheme.  There would be public consultation, but basically a reduction of 10% was directed by the government.  This may have an effect on the Council precept.
 It was confirmed that there could be no delegated powers of approval for planning applications unless there was a Neighbourhood Plan in existence.

Precept This was not dealt with in view of the comments in the preceding item.   It would be discussed again, probably at the November Meeting.  

Correspondence There was no correspondence in addition to that contained in the Post-bag.

Planning No applications notified.

Finance An update of the accounts was produced and approved.
 
Items for the next Meeting Precept (as a running item); the Housing Needs Survey and Poor’s Piece.

Next Meeting  17 September @ 7.30pm.

 

 Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on 23 July 2012 at 7.30pm at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins (Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)  
 Also present Mr Ireland and Mrs Smith

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Planning Applications A/  By Mr & Mrs Smith – Smeaton Lane.
 Councillor Collins had three observations, namely :- the site of the
 application fell within the Green Belt.   There had already been an appeal concerning this site when, on 6 January 2011 Mrs Diane Lewis, a Planning Inspector, allowed the appeal, but, in so doing recorded that the development would be unacceptable on a permanent basis.  She allowed the appeal stating that no more than two caravans should be stationed on the site at any time.   The present proposal was for a brick and tile Day Room with PVC doors and windows and to be connected to a sewage treatment plant, albeit one that would need servicing perhaps every two years, and of a size of 72 square metres – about twice the size of the two caravans currently on site.
Further, an application for a mobile home relating to Lanny’s Lagoon had already been refused by the borough Council and that refusal was upheld on appeal.  Lanny’s Lagoon overlooked the site of the present proposal.
Further, the Inspector had already imposed conditions that occupation of the site was restricted  to Mr & Mrs Smith and any resident dependants until January 2015, by which time all caravans had to be removed.
For these reasons Councillor Collins said he could not support the application.
Councillor Vallance indicated his agreement with the foregoing comments.
Councillor Hartshorn said that, on balance, she would support it and the Chairman said that while he was concerned by the size and permanence of the building, he had sympathy with the reasons for the application and would also support the application.
The Council being evenly split, the Chairman used his casting vote in favour.
B/  By Mr & Mrs   Station House.
It was observed that this application also fell within the Green Belt, but it was unanimously considered that it was not an inappropriate development and consequently there was no objection to the proposal.

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on 25 June 2012 at 7.30pm at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins (Councillors);  Mr T Gillias &Mrs Belinda Garcia (Rugby Borough Councillors);  Mr M Frith (Clerk)

Apologies None

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

News from Rugby BC Mrs Garcia had received an e-amil from A resident of Stretton under Fosse enquiring about Poors Piece.   She was advise to refer the query to the Trusrtees.
Mr Gillias reported the Borough was carrying out a review of Council Housing stock with a view to marrying the housing stock to those needing it.
Mr Gillias also reported that a new mortgage scheme had been introduced to assist first-time buyers.  £1k had been lodged with Nat West Bank, who would administer the Scheme.
He also advise that a new Hosing Needs survey be carried out as the old one, being more than 5 years old and was now useless.

Minutes of the last Meeting
    The Minutes were approved

Matters arising Smeaton Lane.   The holes had been filled in, but only with soil and that was now coming out again.
 Council Vacancy.  Tim Pindum had been approached but had declined the position available on the Council.

Correspondence Strategic Land Development.   The Council considered there was no developable land within the Parish boundaries and Councillor Collins was authorised to complete the form accordingly.   If private individuals wished to do so, they could complete forms themselves that could be obtained from Rugby BC.
 Air Quality Consultation.   This was noted but it was not felt necessary to deal with it.

Planning None received.

Declarations of Interest The Council resolved to adopt the Code of Conduct in the Form L09-12 dated 21 June as set out in the NALC template, as attached to these Minutes
 The Clerk would enquire about Forms of Declaration.

Finance An up-to-date summary of the financial position was produced together with a budget for the rest of the year, showing an anticipated surplus of about £450.

Items for next Meeting  Council Vacancy and Housing Needs Survey

Next Meeting 6 August at 7.30pm

 

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held 14th May on  2012 at the Village Hall

Present 
Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins (Councillors);   Mr M Frith (Clerk)

Apologies  
None

Declarations of Interest  
None

Public Participation  
None

News from Rugby BC  
None

Minutes of the last Meeting 
The minutes were approved

Matters arising 
The coping stone from the bridge in Smeaton Lane had been removed but there was no evidence of any other action having been taken.

Vacancy on the Council 
The vacancy was discussed and Councillors asked to consider who might be suitable to be approached to fill it.   The item was left for the next Meeting.

Localism Act – Registration & Disclosure

Under S27 of Localism Ac t 2011, the Council adopted the Code of Conduct as set out in Appendix 1

Membership of WALC  
This was approved for the ensuing year.

Rugby Core Strategy and SUF_PC_Neighbourhood_plan

This in essence is designed to enable local communities to influence the future of places where they live and work, looking ahead 15-20 years and trying to decide what Stretton under Fosse will need in the future to sustain viability.

Prior to the Meeting, Councillors had met Mrs. Tracy Darke, Head of Planning Coventry City Council and Warwick District Council.

Neighbourhood planning is optional and not compulsory. The Council had been involved in consultation when the Rugby Borough Council Core Strategy was being developed and the Councillors considered that the Core Strategy addressed what was likely to happen in the community in the foreseeable future.

Under the Core Strategy Stretton under Fosse remains a Local Needs Settlement.   Under this Strategy , small scale development to meet local housing needs will be permitted within existing village boundaries.  In exceptional circumstances affordable housing development will be permitted on the edge of Local Needs Settlements in the countryside or Green Belt where it can be demonstrated that there are no suitable sites within existing boundaries.  The Housing Needs Survey completed in August 2007 identified no affordable housing need and the Council considered that there had been no substantial change.

 The Parish Plan which sets out a vision of how the community wants the parish to develop was completed in May 2008 which can be coupled with the Rugby Strategy  Plan which dealing with the Green Belt recites that new development will be resisted; only where national policy on Green Belt allows will development be permitted.

The Council decided that there was therefore no need for a Neighbourhood Plan

Housing Needs Survey 
This was also dealt with by the above, but it was noted that no substantial change from then position at the time of the last Survey in August 2007.

Correspondence  
The Clerk would reply to the Zurich letter.
The Fosse Locality Plan Survey was completed and will be submitted by Councillor Collins.

Planning  
No applications had been notified. 

Finance 
A statement showing current and projected balances was produced and the Clerk will provide a budget for the year for the next Meeting.  Cheques were signed for accounts from E.on; Zurich Insurance and WALC.   The Bank Mandate was completed and signed.
 

Items for next Meeting.  
Nothing not already covered by the foregoing.

Next Meeting     
25th June 2012 at 7.30pm
 

 

Minutes
of a Meeting of the Stretton under Fosse Parish Council
held on 3rd April 2012 at the Village Hall

Present Mr T Smith (Chairman); Mr E Vallance, Mrs S Hartshorn, Mr D Collins (Councillors);  Mr T Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor); Mr M Frith (Clerk)

Apologies Mr G Baxter

Declarations of Interest None

Public Participation None

News from Rugby BC The new Leisure Centre was under way and due to open in 2013.  Phase 1 of the Gateway site was also under way.
 Planning Policy.   The framework was live with the emphasis on mini-local plans.   Neighbourhoods are encouraged to develop their own detailed plans.   Planning applications that were in accord with the neighbourhood plan would be approved – those that were not would not be.
 Matters arising Smeaton Paddocks.  There were now only two caravans on site.
 RBC Hedgerows.   This initiative was not being pursued, maybe for 2 years.

Housing Needs Survey Midlands Rural Housing & Village Development Assoc would carry out a survey for £600 + VAT.    This would be important when planning applications were made.   If there was no need, no consent would be given.   A questionnaire would have to be distributed to each household and the returns analysed.   In view of the expense, it was decided to put this on hold. 

Neighbourhood Plan Public consultation was needed to start it off.   Mrs Hartshorn volunteered to approach Tracy Darke to see if she would be willing to address the Council on the subject.

Smeaton Lane The road by the tunnels was in bad and dangerous repair with deep holes.   Also a coping stone appears to have been pushed off the wall.   It appears that the infill that was done some months ago has come out and it is apparent that something more permanent is needed.  The Clerk would write to the Highways Autority.

Correspondence Western Power Distribution had confirmed the unmetered supply
 The local authority had sent out a Transport Survey that Mr Collins would deal with.

Planning No applications notified.

Finance A donation of £50 to Round The Revel was proposed by Mr Collins and approvedmaintenance and a cheque for £77.38 authorised for E.on 
 At the year-end, the Current Account had a credit balance of £188.05 and the Reserve Account a credit balance of £750.26.
 
Next Meeting 14 May 2012 at 7.30pm. 
 

 

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 27th February 2012
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. G. Baxter (Vice Chairman) 
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 Mr. T. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
 Mr. M. Frith

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL
Faster Broadband: The Government has allocated a £24,000 grant to R.B.C. to invest in faster broadband. R.B.C. has match funded the grant. There is currently a survey taking place to establish where the need is required. Cllr. Gillias urged Councillors to complete the survey.
Housing: R.B.C. is to spend £73,000 on its housing stock, on repairs etc. A rent increase has been approved. There is to be cross party review of “Affordable Housing” – there is a lack of choice in Stretton Under Fosse and other rural communities. 
Travellers at Barnacle: Any development on land surrounding the Top Road site has to have approval before commencement. This enforcement will probably be used on some other small sites where surrounding land is sold. This follows the public wishes that all development should be applied for and there should be no retrospective applications.
R.B.C. Community Assets:  All P.Cs. and individuals are asked to photograph their village and community assets and send the photographs to R.B.C. so that a register of important things to each community, can be produced for posterity.
Mr. Collins asked how far R.B.C. has got on the way to producing a new Local Plan to succeed the 2007 Plan. Cllr. Gillias said that the Core Strategy had replaced the Local Plan in 2011. There are 15 saved policies from the old plan. R.B.C. is looking at how Parish Plans can be used as a framework for new Neighbourhood Plans. Neighbourhood Plans are on the agenda for the next R.B.C. Planning Committee Meeting. 
 
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

A) Housing Needs Survey: Mr. Collins reported that he has been unable to make any progress with his enquiries regarding producing an HNS for Stretton as his contact at R.B.C. has been unavailable. He will continue to pursue the matter.
B) Smeaton Paddocks: No news was known about the temporary additional caravan. Councillors were to check and report the no of caravans at the site.
C) Street Lamps: All lamps in the parish are now working.

 

CORRESPONDENCE

A) W.C.C. Sign up for faster broadband: the public is urged to join the regional campaign for faster broadband speeds by signing up to a survey on internet connectivity.
B) R.B.C. Parish Consultations on new planning applications: R.B.C. wants to know each P.C’s preferred method of receiving plans and forms when consulted i.e. hard copies or e-mail. Councillors decided that e-mails would usually be sufficient but sometimes they might need larger scale plans of proposals than is available by e-mail. The Clerk was asked to contact R.B.C. to relay the decision.
C) N.A.L.C. Neighbourhood Development Plans, Orders and Community Right to Build: The P.C. is invited to comment on the questions posed on a sample neighbourhood planning referendum, suggested by the Electoral Commission. Councillors were sent copies of this correspondence before the meeting as the deadline for responses was 20/2. Councillors were happy with the questions and the Clerk had e-mailed to N.A.L.C. to that effect.
D) E.ON Street Lighting Maintenance: There will be an increase in repair charges from 1/4/12.
E) R.B.C. Hedgerows within your Parish: Local people with knowledge of hedgerows in the parish are invited to assist the Regional Habitat Biodiversity Audit and provide valuable data that can be used to protect and enhance habitats. Mr. Collins reported that Mrs. Collins would be willing to help with this work. The Clerk is to pass on the correspondence to Mrs. Collins so that she can register her interest in helping. 
F) E.ON Street Lighting Energy Savings: A “retro fit” control gear is now available to convert orange lamps to low energy white light lanterns. Prices enclosed. Councillors decided that any conversions would be too expensive.
G) R.B.C. National Spring Clean: The National Spring Clean is being held in March and April. Stretton is invited to take part. Councillors set Sunday 25th March at 10 a.m. for a “Litter Pick”. The Clerk is to request the loan of picking sticks and gloves and a supply of bin bags from R.B.C. The event is to be advertised on the village notice board and website. A leaflet will be produced and delivered to each household by Mr. Collins, to inform them about the event.
H) W.C.C. Imaging your past and present: everyone is encouraged to photograph buildings and landscapes that are currently not protected within the planning process but that people feel are important to their community and future generations. Photographs should be uploaded onto Historic Environment Record “Timetrail”.

PLANNING

R11/2433 Permission granted for the erection of a single storey extension to rear (N.E.) and wall to north east and north west boundaries at Station House.

FINANCE

A) Bank Balances on 27/2/12: Current Acc. £657.25, Deposit Acc. £750.23
B) Since the last meeting the following cheque was authorized:-
No. 269 £120.00 to Crampton Printers for the map board and book in the new Information Centre
The following cheques were authorized at the meeting:-
  No. 270 £10.20 to E.on for call out fee to lamp no. 10 (near Stretton Lodge).
  No. 271 £444.00 to Eon for the repair of lamp no. 14 (Malt Kiln Lane).
  No. 272 £15 to Mrs. S. J. Hall for the Clerk’s annual expenses.
C) There was discussion about which account the payments for lamp repairs should be drawn from. The Chairman decided that the current account should be debited if it held sufficient funds. If/when the current account balance got low, money from the deposit account should be transferred to top it up. Mr. Collins did not agree, he wanted to draw money from the Deposit Account to pay the large bill.
Mr. Collins did not agree, the deposit or reserve fund was specifically set up for capital expenditure and should equate to about 6 months ordinary revenue expenditure. Repairs of the street lights was plainly a capital expenditure. The creation of the Reserve Account followed the advice of the NALC. It was not a fund to “top up” the current account.

REPLACING THE CLERK TO THE COUNCIL

There was 1 applicant, Mr. Mike Frith. All Councillors considered Mr. Frith suitable for the post. Mr. Frith was duly appointed and will take office on 1st. April. The present Clerk and Mr. Frith set a date for a meeting to discuss the role and the take over.

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS

R.B.C. has notified the Clerk that this year all the Councillors for Stretton must retire and an election will be held on Thursday 3rd May 2012 to form a new council.
On 27th March the Clerk will display a notice of election. This notice will be an invitation for prospective candidates to complete nomination papers and return them to the Town Hall by noon on Wed 4th April. The Clerk will be supplied with parish council nomination papers to issue to anyone who expresses an interest in standing as a candidate.
Mr. Collins said he would write and deliver a flier advertising the election, to each household, in the hope that some new people would seek nomination and election.

ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING

A) An update on the Housing Needs Survey
B) A Neighbourhood Plan

It was noted the Localism Bill is now the Localism Act. The Chairman said he would access a copy of the Act to read it through and possibly print a copy for the P.C. before the next meeting.

The date for the next meeting was set for Tuesday 3rd April.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.40 pm.

 

 Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 21st November 2011.
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. G. Baxter (Vice Chairman) 
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 Mr. A. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)

Apologies were received from Mrs. S Harthorn (Councillor).

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

 NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL

Youth grants: Rugby Borough Council’s grant fund for youth groups for 2011/12 has now been opened to applications. Applications are invited for projects that will enhance the sustainability of new and existing youth groups providing services to young people (aged 10–19 years of age) in the borough of Rugby. More information on R.B.C. website
Olympic Torch: Rugby and Dunchurch are to play host to the Olympic Flame as part of the London 2012 Torch Relay next year. The torch will visit on Monday 2 July 2012, and Rugby Borough Council is planning to make sure as many people as possible will be able to see the flame as it passes by. More information on R.B.C. website.
Carriers of Waste: There have recently been spot checks on vehicles to see if they are illegally carrying waste. Current environmental law places certain responsibilities on businesses if as part of that business they transport trade waste (legally referred to as controlled waste).Persons who carry waste as part of their business are required to be registered with the Environment Agency and need a Transfer Licence. Transferring waste to an unregistered company or person is also an offence. Council Housing: Rugby Borough Council’s Cabinet has approved a recommendation that could see the council take back control of its housing stock from the government. There is to be a review of council housing stock, future numbers of tenants and the type of housing required. Council house rents are due to rise over the next 5 years.
Localism Act: Cllr. Gillias drew Councillors' attention to this Act.
There is to be a Planning Policy Working Party meeting on 12th Dec. when the 3 local draft supplementary planning documents will be discussed. Any comments should be e-mailed to Cllr. Gillias, he will then pass on the representations at the meeting.
Boundary Commission; R.B.C. Fosse Ward will become part of the Revel and Binley Woods Ward. Cllr. Gillias fears that Binley Woods will take up a lot of its Councillors' time, leaving less time for rural villages.
Boundary Commission :Parliamentary Constituency: Stretton will be part of the Nuneaton Constituency.
MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING
A) New Standing Orders: These have been updated and printed. Councillors have been sent an e-mail attachment copy to download for their own information.
CORRESPONDENCE

A) Superfast Broadband: The Government is making £4.07m available for Cov., Solihull and Warks., which has to be match funded from Local Authority capital funds. The Government’s aim is to provide a minimum of 2 Mbps broadband to all homes and superfast broadband to 90% of people by 2015. There is an on-line survey, to which Councillors will respond as individuals on the P.C’s behalf.
B) WALC, W.C.C’s Proposal for Active Partnering Scheme: W.C.C. is considering a scheme to build on its relationship with parish and town councils. This initiative is to reflect the Government’s agenda on localism and as a means of expanding the Local Councils’ Charter. It offers a parcel of options for joint working with councils. WALC would like the views of councils. Deadline 30th November. No comments.
C) W.C.C. Library Opening Hours Proposals: There are 2 options for each library. Consultation ends on 11th Dec. The intention is to implement the revised opening hours from April 2012. People are encouraged to have their say. The option selected for each library will be based on the majority preference. There is an on-line survey. No comments.
D) W.C.C. Winter Services in Warwickshire 2011/12: A map of gritting routes has been published and The Fosse Way and B4027 are both on it.
E) W.C.C. Snow Warden Scheme 2011/12: A network of voluntary Snow Wardens is needed to provide information to the County Highways Team, on the local situation during periods of severe weather conditions. Before the meeting Mr. Terry Hartshorn volunteered for the post and was duly appointed by the P.C.

THE PARISH HOUSING NEEDS SURVEY

Mr. Collins reported that he was in the team that produced the last Housing Needs Survey (HNS) in August 2007. R.B.C’s. Local Plan identifies Stretton as a Local Needs Settlement where only local needs housing and employment developments would be acceptable. If an up to date H.N.S. finds there is no housing need in the parish, R.B.C. would have to establish a reason before allowing any development. Without an up to date H.N.S. the P.C. cannot raise any objections to any proposed new development. R.B.C. recommends that a H.N.S. is reviewed every 3 years.  Last time a Rural Enabler for this area produced the questionnaire that was delivered to each household. The completed questionnaires were then analysed by a professional and the survey was published. Unfortunately, there is no longer a Rural Enabler financed to produce a questionnaire, so the P.C. would have to fund it.
 Councillors decided to photocopy the last questionnaire. In January, these would be distributed to every household, with a covering letter, to be written by Mr. Collins. Completed questionnaires could be posted in the Village Hall post box. The survey results would be compared with the last results.

PLANNING: None

FINANCE

A) Bank Balance: on 21st Nov 2011 the C/A balance was £1,878.23 and the D/A was £250.18.
B) Payments and receipts: none
C) Precept request for the next year: The Clerk had prepared an estimated balance of the current account for the end of the financial year and a list of expected payments in 2012/13. Councillors decided that money from the C/A should be transferred to the D/A to increase the Reserve Fund to the equivalent of 6 months payments as recommended by WALC. i.e. £1,041.50. Mr. Smith said he would study the figures and then e-mail his suggested precept request to the other Councillors, for their consideration. The Clerk would then be asked to send the request to R.B.C., well before the deadline of 3rd January 2012.

OTHER BUSINESS

The Chairman suggested that relevant information sent to the P.C. by computer, could be put on the village website. This was met with approval and the Clerk was asked to forward information of interest to parishioners to Mrs. E. Collins so that it could be displayed.
An advert would be put in “Round the Revel” notifying villagers that in future, information would be posted on the village website.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING was set for January 9th 2012.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 p.m.

 

 

 

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 11th October, 2011.
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)  
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 Mr. T. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
 P.C.S.Os. Matt Havelock and Simon Holland.

Apologies were received from Mr. G. Baxter (Vice Chairman).

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

REPORT FROM P.C.S.O. MATT HAVELOCK:

The only reported crime in the parish during September was an attempted burglary at Malt Kiln Farm Shop. A lock-up outside the shop was broken into but was empty. The intruders, who left with nothing, were filmed on CCTV. The owners had previously taken good security measures on the shop – they will now do the same on their outbuildings. The same weekend several nurseries and farm shops were broken into.
Metal theft is increasing. Farm gates, a metal trough as well as drain covers have recently been stolen in the Rugby Borough. Councillors were told to beware of scrap metal thieves.
The Mobile Police Station has been visiting Stretton some Sunday afternoons. A new timetable for visits will be published soon.

MATTERS ARISING

A) Gateway to 43 Main Street: Mr. Collins has spoken to the owner. Having been let down by 2 contractors, the owners are going to build some gates themselves. However, the job does not seem have been started yet.
B) Grants: Mrs. Hartshorn wondered whether it would be worth pursuing funding for a car park in the village. Councillors decided not to make any enquiries.
C) Proposed Wind Farm near Churchover: The planning application by developers has been rejected by R.B.C. because it falls within the protected area around the NATS Radio Station in Montilo Lane.  

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL

Planning: The National Planning Authority has published the draft National Planning Policy Framework for consultation. This is a key part of the reforms to make the planning system less complex and more accessible, and to promote sustainable growth.
The Council has prepared 3 draft supplementary planning documents (SPD) for consultation. The consultation ends on 17th October. Sustainable development is very important and R.B.C. is going to look at Core Strategy again. There will be new national planning documents and any local authority without relevant up to date policies will be forced to grant planning permission. The Green Belt will still be protected. Cllr. Gillias recommended Councillors to respond to R.B.C’s. draft Housing Needs SPD.
Boundary Changes: The Boundary Commission has set out it’s final recommendations for R.B.C. The changes proposed must now be implemented by Parliament. In the changes, the new Revel and Binley Ward will be the biggest in area and will need 3 Councillors to run it.
Gypsy and Traveller Sites: R.B.C. has to establish the exact need for Gypsy and Traveller sites. All applications will go through the full consultation system. R.B.C. is trying to move away from retrospective applications and permission.

NEW STANDING ORDERS

Mr. Collins presented the new S.Os. (based on the model produced by NALC), at the last meeting. Having read them the Clerk asked for a few changes to be considered before adoption. Mr. Collins made the requested amendments.
Mr. Collins proposed that the Standing Orders be adopted in the form attached hereto – it was agreed by Council.

CORRESPONDENCE

A) W.C.C. Formal Consultation – Proposal to close the Pupil Referral Unit: Views on the proposal welcome – deadline 7th November. No comments
B) W.C.C. Warwickshire Waste Core Strategy: Preferred Options and Policies consultation Document. This sets out the preferred spatial option in greater detail and provides draft Core Strategy and Development Management policies that will be used to assess the acceptability of new waste management proposals. The information can be viewed on-line. A questionnaire is available to download. The consultation period ends on 7th Nov. Mr. Collins offered to respond on behalf of the Council.
C) Boundary Commission for England: The 2013 Review of Parliamentary Constituencies in England. A consultation on the proposals ends on 5th Dec. 2011. Maps and details of the proposals can be viewed on the Commission’s website. No comments
D) Local Government Boundary Commission: Electoral Review of Rugby: Final Recommendations
– a council size of 42 members, comprising a pattern of 13 three member wards and 3 single member wards, which would provide good levels of electoral equality. The changes have to be approved by Parliament. If accepted, the new arrangements will come into force at the next R.B.C. elections, in 2012.
E) W.C.C. Health Watch: P.C’s views requested. The letter was e-mailed to Councillors on 27th Sept. and the deadline for responses is 21st Oct. No comments.
F) R.B.C. Draft Housing Needs Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), Draft Sustainable Design SPD and Draft Planning Obligations SPD: These documents have been prepared for the purposes of consultation. Comments are invited before the deadline of 17th October. Mr. Smith took the documents home to study, and later decided that there was nothing he wished to comment on.
G) W.C.C. The Restructured Rights of Way Team: for information.
H) W.A.L.C. Open Public Services White Paper: feedback from the discussion event held on 16th August – for information.
I) N.A.L.C. Policy Consultation on “National Planning Policy Framework”: this was e-mailed to Councillors on 27th Sept the deadline being 5th Oct. No Comments.  PLANNING

R11/1654 Since the last meeting an application for the erection of a garden room in the garden of 18 Main St. has been received. All Councillors were informed of the application. There were no objections. The Clerk sent the P.C’s response to R.B.C. to that effect. Planning permission was granted on 19th September.
Mr. Collins said he would make enquiries to find out if the Parish Plan Housing Needs Survey is due to be updated.

FINANCE

A) Bank Balance: on 11/10/11 the C/A balance was £2,045.33 and the D/A was £250.18.
B) Receipts: on 11/8/11, £76.50 reclaimed VAT, on 26/9/11, £1,345.00 second half of the precept from R.B.C.
C) Payments: on 7/9/11 cheque no. 263 £60.00 to Clement Keys for external audit,
on 11/10/11 Cheque no 264 £77.38 to Eon for quarterly maintenance,
on 11/10/11 cheque no 265 £89.72 to Eon for quarterly supply.
D) Audit: an unqualified audit opinion has been given by the external auditor. The notice of conclusion of audit has been displayed.

ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING

Updating the Parish Housing Needs Survey - if needed.
 
The date for the next meeting was set for 21st Nov. 2011
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.15 pm.

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 8th August, 2011
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. G. Baxter (Vice Chairman) 
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 Mr. T. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

A) Gateway to garden of 43, Main Street: Mr. Collins has not had the opportunity for an informal, tactful word with the owners to find out if they have plans to install a gate across the entrance instead of the blue tarpaulin. Mr. Collins hopes to meet the owners when he is passing their house.

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL

The Local Development Framework will eventually include all the planning authority’s local development documents. It is a master plan into which all other documents will be fed.
Cllr. Gillias reported that R.B.C. had adopted the Core Strategy on 24th June 2011. There are new planning policies included in the document that put more emphasis on Local Councils to take control of enforcing departments.
Gypsy and Traveller Sites: Each local authority is to identify the need for sites in their area. The only way to stop travellers staying on unauthorised sites is to accommodate them on special permanent sites. Temporary sites should not become permanent sites without further application and consultation and public consideration.
Cllr. Gillias asked the P.C. to contact W.C.C. for gulley emptying (each gulley should be emptied annually) and the removal of weeds on pavements and in gutters. The Highways Dept has a duty to maintain these areas.

REPORT FROM P.C.S.O. MATT HAVELOCK: Unfortunately Matt was unable to attend the meeting as he was on a First Aid Course. The Clerk will invite him to the next meeting.
Mrs. Hartshorn told the meeting that Matt was investigating the loud noise created by screeching tyres in the village. The noise is heard by residents most evenings. The driver of the offending vehicle is believed to live in Malt Kiln Barns.

STANDING ORDERS

Mr Collins had updated the current Standing Orders according to the new model published by N.A.L.C.. The Clerk asked for a few points to be considered before they were adopted. The Chairman asked the Clerk to e-mail these points to all Councillors, for consideration before the next meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE

A) Central Warwickshire Villages LEADER Local Action Group: At a recent strategic review of the programme, Stretton Under Fosse was identified as a priority area as so far it has not been awarded any project resources or funding. If Stretton P. C.  has any future plans or ideas for projects on the theme of a) Community Growing Projects, b) Community Arts and Events or c) Linking Projects, the group would be pleased to discuss these with them. No ideas so far.
A) W.C.C. Rugby Area Community Fund 2011/12: The fund is to provide grants for projects that provide new opportunities for local people. No ideas so far.
B) W.C.C. Big Society Fund 2011/12: The fund is to provide grants for projects which directly contribute to the Council’s Vision and four Aspirations for Building the Big Society in Warks. No ideas so far.
C) N.A.L.C. Chief Executive Briefing – Open Public Services White Paper. For information
D) N.A.L.C. Policy Consultation – Open Public Services White Paper Consultation. Deadline for responses is 7th Sept. No comments.
E) R.B.C. Core Strategy Adoption – R.B.C. adopted the Core Strategy Development Plan Document. This document is now Council policy and as such the Core Strategy combined with the remaining saved Local Plan policies form the local element of the statutory Development Plan. For information.
F) W.C.C. Care Services: A consultation on W.C.C. proposals to introduce charges for community care services. No comments.

PLANNING

A) R10/2303 Wind Farm near Churchover: Since the last meeting SSE Renewables has applied to R.B.C. for permission to install 9 wind turbines of up to 126.5m tip height, a meteorological mast, and sub-station and other related constructions. The Clerk has sent a response to R.B.C. objecting to the development. Cllr. Gillias informed the meeting that this application would be considered by the Planning Committee on 7th or 28th Sept.
B) R11/1150 Installation of solar panels at Malt Kiln Farm Shop: Since the last meeting the Clerk was informed of this application. Following a consultation with Councillors, the Clerk sent a response to R.B.C. in support of this development. On 28th July, planning permission was granted.

FINANCE

A) Bank Balance: on 8/8/11 the C/A balance was £683.83 and the D/A was £250.15.
B) Payments: Since the last meeting 1 cheque had been authorized:-
No. 262  £89.72 to Eon for quarterly supply.
C) Annual Audit: The P.C. Annual Return and statements of finance were at the External Auditor.

ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING

The adoption of the new Standing Orders.
The date for the next meeting was set for Tuesday 11th October.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 pm.

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 27th June, 2011
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 
DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

A) Potholes near tunnel in Smeaton Lane: Since the last meeting the Clerk had contacted W.C.C. Area Surveyor, for an update on the repairs, and was told that the “pull-ins” had been made safe and would be tarmacced in the summer/autumn.
B) Standing Orders: Mr. Collins reported that work is in progress on updating the current S.Os. according to the new model N.A.L.C. has published.
C) Proposed Wind Farm near Churchover: Mrs. Hartshorn reported that permission has been granted for a trial mast. There has been no planning application from the developers so far. Councillors will continue frequent monitoring of R.B.C. Planning Portal.

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None

CORRESPONDENCE

A) The Fosse Ward has a new Police Community Support Officer – Matt Havelock. The Clerk was asked to invite him to the next P.C. meeting so that everyone in the parish has an opportunity to meet him.
B) Sarah Butter, Communities Group, W.C.C. has sent details of the Superfast Broadband Project proposal being undertaken across Warks. In order to bid for funding W.C.C. need to gather information about where the current service is inadequate and has to prove what effect this is having on businesses and communities. To help provide evidence to prove a case for funding, those interested are asked to complete an on-line survey. Mr. Collins offered to complete the survey on behalf of the P.C.
C) N.A.L.C. Legal Briefing – Councillors’ Notification Under the Data Protection Act 1998. For information.
D) N.A.L.C. Policy Consultation – Planning for Traveller Sites. Councils are strongly encouraged to respond to this consultation – deadline 6th July. No comments.
E) N.A.L.C. Policy Consultation – Relaxation of Planning Rules for Change of Use from Commercial to Residential. Deadline for responses is 30th June. No comments
F) R.B.C. Rugby Community Safety Partnership Plan 2011-2014. The Community Safety Plan is a statutory document and sets out a number of crucial issues. For information.
G) W.C.C. Consultation on Partnership Landscapes – the future arrangements of structures for working with their partners. It contains proposals to abolish the Area Committees and give greater powers to Locality Forums. There is an on-line response form to complete and return. No comments.

PLANNING

Tree Felling at Lanny’s Lagoon: The Clerk had received a message from Mrs. C. Smith reporting that a mature, apparently healthy tree had been felled. Mrs. Smith was concerned about the bad affect it would have on wildlife around the lagoon. The Clerk asked R.B.C. if there are any restrictions regarding axing trees and was informed that unless a tree is within a conservation area or is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) then the owner of the land is within their rights to fell/carry out works on their trees. There are no such restrictions at Lanny’s Lagoon so R.B.C. has no control over this matter.
The Clerk was asked to inform Mrs. Smith of the situation.

FINANCE

A) Insurance: The Clerk reported that an insurance policy with Zurich has been taken out.
B) Annual Audit: The P.C. account book and statements of finance was with the Internal Auditor.
C) Payments: Two cheques were authorized:-
 £77.38 to Eon for quarterly street lighting maintenance.
 £433.88 to Mrs. S. J. Hall for half Clerk’s annual salary.

OPEN GARDENS AND THE GENERAL APPEARANCE OF THE VILLAGE

Mr. Collins spoke about the recent Open Gardens event in the village which was very successful. He thought that most people in the village are proud of their environment and keep their hedges, walls, and front gardens neat and tidy. He noted that a few people do not sweep the pavement outside their property or remove weeds growing on the pavements. To improve the appearance of the village, councillors agreed that property owners should be encouraged to tidy the area outside their immediate curtilage.
Following a discussion it was decided that before the next “Open Gardens” the Clerk should ask R.B.C. to come and sweep the pavements.

For several years there has been a blue tarpaulin outside 43, Main St.. The old brick archway and wooden gates were demolished/removed and a new archway built, but the wooden gates haven’t been replaced. The Clerk had checked the Planning Decision Notice and there is no time scale for the completion of the work. R.B.C. has no power to formally act to get the development finished. As no progress has been made on completing the development and it is an eyesore in the Main St., Mr. Collins offered to speak to the homeowners to find out their plans for fitting wooden gates and to encourage them to finish the job as soon as possible.

The date for the next meeting was set for Monday 8th August 2011.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.15 pm.

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 16th May 2011
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)

Apologies were received from Mr. G. Baxter and Mr. T. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

A) Potholes in Smeaton Lane: Since the last meeting Mr. Smith and Mr. Collins had visited the site and photographed the holes in the road at either end of the tunnel. The clerk had sent the photos and a draft letter to Coombe Fields P.C.. C.F.P.C. was happy with the letter and images so the Clerk forwarded them to W.C.C..
Mrs. Hartshorn reported that the deepest holes had been packed with soil but did not know who had carried out the work. The Clerk was asked to contact W.C.C. to find out when permanent repairs would be made.
B) Traffic Calming: All the signs have now been erected.
C) H.M.R.C. The Clerk made another call to the helpline and was again told that as her total income was below the threshold the P.C. does not have to register for P.A.Y.E. W.A.L.C. confirmed that the P.C. would not need to register but advised the Clerk to get written confirmation of this from the local tax office to cover the Council. The tax office would not send any confirmation but suggested that the Clerk completed a P46 and kept it on file. The Clerk has carried out the suggestion.
D) SpeedAware: The Clerk has registered the P.C’s interest in Community SpeedAware and was given further information. The P.C. could borrow a smiley SID flashing sign for up to 2 weeks. Volunteers (minimum of 2) will need to attend a brief training session in the village with the SpeedAware Team. At the training session the equipment will be provided which will be collected up to 2 weeks later. Following a discussion Councillors decided not to pursue the matter as in their opinion any reduction in speed is only temporary. The main problem with traffic passing through the village is the high volume and the increasing nos. of H.G.Vs.
NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None

CORRESPONDENCE

A) N.A.L.C. New Legal Topic Note 78: Equality Act 2010. For information.
B) N.A.L.C. Legal Briefing: Future Standards of Conduct of Members of Local Authorities in England. To explain the options open for P.Cs. when the Localism Bill comes into force and repeals the current duties on a P.C..
C) N.A.L.C. Policy Consultation: The Government’s Plan to Move Inland Waterways into a New Charity in England and Wales. Deadline for responses 9th June. No comments.
D) N.A.L.C. Revised First Edition of “Standing Orders for Local Councils”. Part 2 of the publication is “Model Standing Orders”. Mr. Collins agreed to revise the P.C’s. current S.Os according to the new model.
E) A new draft government proposal for the Planning Policy Statement on Gypsy and Traveller Sites in England. The consultation is for a 12 week period up to July. No comments.
F) R.B.C. 2011/12 Grants Programme. No comments.
G)  Proposed Wind Farm near Churchover. Protesters believe that a planning application from the developers is imminent, and urge everyone to petition and write letters against the proposal. There is to be a meeting at Churchover on 18th May. Councillors decided to look at R.B.C. Planning Portal frequently. When the application is registered the P.C. will send a response to R.B.C..

PLANNING

A) R10/0132 Permission granted for the conversion of roof space with increased height and insertion of dormer windows at “Foxwoods”, Smeaton Lane.
B) R11/0604 Refusal of permission for the erection of detached triple garage with mezzanine storage at Wharf House. Reason for refusal: inappropriate development in the Green Belt.

FINANCE

A) Bank Balance: on 16/5/11 the C/A balance was £1,683.53 and the D/A £250.13
B) There had been no payments or receipts since the last meeting.
At the meeting the following cheques were authorized:-
 No. 257 £89.72 to Eon for quarterly supply
 No. 258 £84.00 to W.A.L.C. for annual subscription.
C) Annual Audit: The Clerk presented the Annual Return. Section 1 – Accounting statements, had been completed and signed by the Clerk. The Council approved them and the Chairman signed them. Section 2 –Annual governance statement had been completed by the Clerk and was approved by the Council and signed by the Chairman and Clerk. 
D) Insurance: The P.C. policy is scheduled to expire on 31st May. The present insurers (Jardine Lloyd Thompson) will no longer provide an insurance facility for Town and Parish Councils. The Clerk had obtained quotations for similar insurance from 2 companies, Aviva and Zurich.
Summary of cover:-

 Zurich   
Public Liability  £5,000,000  
Employers Liability  £10,000,000  
Fidelity Guarantee  £25,000  
Contents – Street Furniture £10,000       
Money Cover   £250,000  
Libel and Slander  £100,000
Personal Accident  £20,000  
Annual Premium          £225.00  

Aviva
Public Liability    £10,000,000
Employers Liability    £10,000,000
Fidelity Guarantee           £100,000
Contents – Street Furniture   not specific     
Money Cover     £250,000
Libel and Slander    £250,000
Personal Accident    £50,000
Annual Premium     £265.00

1. Councillors decided to take out a policy with Zurich as it is the cheaper though a reputable company. As the P.C. has few assets, deals with relatively low amounts of money and has never claimed to date, the lower cover (in some sections) by Zurich seems sufficient. The Clerk was asked to contact Zurich and accept it’s quotation.
The date for the next meeting was set for 27th June 2011
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.15 p.m..

Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting held in the Village Hall on Monday 16th May 2011 at 7.15 p.m..

Present: Mr. T. Smith, Mr. E. Vallance, Mr. D. Collins, Mrs. S. Hartshorn and Mrs. S. J. Hall.

Apologies were received from Mr. G. Baxter and Rugby Borough Councillor T. Gillias

Mr. Smith welcomed those present.

Mr. Smith gave his review of the Parish Council for the past year.

There was no other business.

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Stretton Under Fosse Parish Council, held in the Village Hall on Monday 16th May 2011 at 7.30 p.m..

Present: Mr. T. Smith, Mr. E. Vallance, Mr. D. Collins, Mrs. S. Hartshorn and Mrs. S.J.Hall (Clerk).

Apologies were received from Cllr. Baxter and R.B. Cllr. T. Gillias.

ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN: Mrs. Hartshorn proposed that Mr. Smith be re-elected as Chairman for the year, seconded by Mr. Vallance with all in agreement.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None

DECLARATION OF ACCEPTANCE OF OFFICE

Mr. Smith was unable to complete a declaration form at the meeting as the Clerk  had forgotten to take any. It was agreed that the Clerk would deliver a form to Mr. Smith for him to complete before the next meeting.

ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN: None present were willing to stand. Before the meeting Mr. Baxter said he was prepared to continue in the post if no-one else wanted the job. In his absence Mr. Baxter was proposed by Mr. Vallance, seconded by Mrs. Hartshorn and duly re-elected.

STATEMENT OF FINANCES: The clerk had prepared a Statement of Finances at 31st March 2011. This was received by the Council and signed by the Chairman.

REGISTER OF ASSETS:  This remained the same as last year. It was signed by the Chairman.

RISK ASSESSMENT: The Council reviewed the Risk assessment made last year and decided that all risks were low level so no changes needed to be made.

There was no further business.

 

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 11th April 2011.
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 
Apologies were received from Cllr. Baxter and R.B. Cllr. Gillias.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

Mrs. Hartshorn said she would be unable to attend the A.G.M. and other meetings on 23rd May and asked if other Councillors had any objections to bringing it forward to 16th May.  It was decided to change the date of the A.G.M. and other meetings to 16th May.

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None

REPAIRS TO THE ROADSIDES AT BOTH ENDS OF THE TUNNEL ON SMEATON LANE

The P.C. had been approached by Coombe Fields P.C. to form a joint request to W.C.C. for repairs to be carried out on the near roadsides at both ends of the tunnel on Smeaton Lane, i.e. in both parishes. Mrs. Hatshorn confirmed that there are some deep potholes on the near side of the Stretton end of the tunnel and also deep holes on the Coombe Fields end, where vehicles have to pull over to let on-coming traffic proceed through the tunnel and along the lane. Mr. Smith and Mr. Collins said they would visit the site the next day and take some photographs of the faults.
It was agreed that Stretton P.C. would draft an e-mail, including images, to W.C.C. and send it to C.F.P.C. for it to approve or amend, before sending it to W.C.C.
TRAFFIC CALMING

Mr. Collins reported that the installation of the “Gateway” and large 30 m.p.h. sign at the Street Ashton end of the village was being delayed by Malt Kiln Farm Shop advertising boards on the grass verge. W.C.C. would not proceed with the traffic calming measures until the advertising had been removed, as they would obstruct the planned new signage. Mr. Lea has been informed that the boards must be removed.

CORRESPONDENCE

A) H.M.R.C. Parish Clerks can no longer be classed as self employed and must register for P.A.Y.E. and N.I.. The Clerk had rung H.M.R.C. Helpline and had been informed that the P.C. would not have to register as her salary is well below the threshold and she has no other income. Councillors were concerned that advice from N.A.L.C. was that all P.C. must register.
The Clerk offered to find out more about the legal situation on this matter.

B) R.B.C. Recycling and Refuse Changes: The bins would be emptied on Tuesdays from 5th April.

C) W.C.C. Revenue Support Budget Provision 2011-12.: The budget has to be reduced by £60 over the next 3 years. It will no longer be able to subsidise bus services as present.
Proposed changes- a) reduced to 2 hourly service to Rugby and Coventry b) Flexibuses to Leicester and Nuneaton withdrawn. It is likely to take up to 6 months before the revised bus network is in place.
This information had been e-mailed to Councillors on 8th March. Mr Collins pointed out that no.585 service buses run every half an hour between Coventry and Rugby and Rugby and Coventry. A reduction from half hourly to 2 hourly would be drastic. The Clerk had sent an e-mail to W.C.C. Transport Operations Officer who had replied that W.C.C. bus service is hourly that DeCourcey provide extra journeys on a commercial basis. In Sept. the journey will be retendered, DeCourcy may continue to supply extra transport.
Councillors had no further comments on the proposed changes.

D) W.C.C. Library Service Consultation: There will be a Mobile Library Roadshow on 11th May – all day and a consultation event at Rugby Library on 16th May 11.30 – 2.30p.m.

E) W.C.C. Warwickshire Waste Core Strategy – Emerging Spatial Options Consultation: A Development Plan Document has been produced. This sets out the Spatial Strategy, Vision Objectives and Policies for managing waste for up to 2027/28. It also provides a framework for implementing and monitoring and for waste development management. The consultation runs until 20th May. Deadline for completed questionnaires is 20th May. Mr. Collins offered to complete the questionnaire on behalf of the P.C..

F) W.C.C. SpeedAware: There will be changes to the current scheme as funding for SpeedAware has been cut. All scheduling will cease at the end of March. 2 options will be available a) SpeedAware  package costing £250 b) Community SpeedAware – a free service requiring local volunteers. Expressions of interest are invited for either scheme.
The Clerk was asked to contact W.C.C. and express an interest in option b.

G) Local Government Boundary Commission – Electoral Review of Rugby: Draft Recommendations. The full report is available on www.lgbce.org.uk  A summary and poster enclosed. The Commission would welcome comments on the report by 20th June.

PLANNING

A) R10/2132 Application for the conversion of roof space with increased height and insertion of dormer windows at “Foxwoods”, Smeaton Lane. Councillors had no objection. The Clerk was asked to respond to R.B.C. supporting the application.

B) R11/0604 Application for the erection of detached triple garage with mezzanine storage at Wharf House.
Councillors were in favour of the replacement of the present flat roofed triple garage with a new pitched roof triple garage. However, reservations were expressed about the proposed rear extension to the garage for storage, as well as the large area above the car spaces with 3 dormer windows. Mr. Collins offered to draft a letter to R.B.C. for the rest of the P.C’s approval.

FINANCE

A) Bank Balance: on 11/4/11 the Current Account balance was £1,810.91 and the Deposit Account balance was £250.12
B) Payments: at the meeting the following payments were authorised:-
a) No. 255 £77.38 to Eon for quarterly maintenance.
b) No. 256 £50.00 to “Round the Revel” as a donation.
C) Receipts: on 7/4/11 £1,345.00 from R.B.C. for half precept payment.

ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING/ ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Mrs. Hartshorn asked that the bag of correspondence should not be left on a Councillor’s doorstep when passing it on to the next Councillor to read. Occasionally, the bag hasn’t been seen by the intended Councillor for a few days as he/she is away. This results in a delay in the circulation of the correspondence.
It was decided that to avoid delays in future, Councillors should physically pass the correspondence on the next Councillor. If a Councillor was not at home, the correspondence bag should be taken to another Councillor on the list, who was at home.

The date for the next meeting was set for 16th May.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.30 pm.

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 28th February, 2011.
Present: - Mr. G. Baxter (Vice Chairman) 
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
 Mr. T. Gillias (Rugby Borough Councillor)
Apologies were received from Councillors Smith and Vallance

In the absence of the Chairman, Councillor Baxter chaired the meeting.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION: None

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

A) “Low Bridge” sign for Smeaton Lane: The Clerk had contacted the Traffic Projects Team at W.C.C. to request that a sign be installed to warn drivers that there is a low bridge ahead, only to be  informed that a sign was installed last autumn. The Clerk has since checked the site and there is indeed a warning sign.
B) Wrong signage at Fosse Way Junction: The sign has not been corrected. The Clerk was asked to contact W.C.C. again to remind them that they have agreed that the signage is wrong and needs to be amended.
C) Litter Pick: The Clerk confirmed that R.B.C. will provide gloves, picking sticks and bags for the litter pick on Sunday 20th March. A notice of the date, time and meeting place will be in the March edition of “Round the Revel”.

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL

Budget: Cllr. Gillias reported that there had recently been a budget setting meeting. There will be no increase in Council Tax next financial year. Residents in the Borough should not find any difference in RBC services. RBC have pledged to save £500,000 by cutting staff (though only 7 or 8 forced redundancies) and generally saving on expenses for Councillors and Staff.
Wind Farm: a landscape capacity study for wind energy development in Rugby Borough has identified a site near Copston Magna, named the Highcross Plateau, as suitable for wind energy development. A Planning Application is likely to be submitted by prospective developers in the next few weeks.
Gypsy Sites: There is going to be a re-assessment of the number of gypsy and traveller sites needed in the Rugby Borough.
New Housing Development: Phase R1 at the Gateway Building Site along Leicester Road has been approved. There will be 244 new homes, made up of 6,5,4,3 and 2 bedroom properties, of which just under 20% will be “affordable housing”. The P.C. was advised to keep up to date with Stretton’s Housing Needs Survey to stop unwanted houses in the village. In future “affordable housing” may be permitted outside the village envelope.
DIRF 111: there is a proposal to build a development on the eastside of A5. It will be 3 times bigger than DIRF 1 & 2. There is a proposed rail head but a new development will generate more HGVs on A5 and through rural villages around it. There is a proposed lorry park of 3.5 hectares, not enough space for all the extra lorries. There will be lorries parked wherever there is space. There is a DIRF111 consultation website; Councillors are advised to comment on the expected increase of HGVs on rural roads.
 
COMMUNITY INCLUSION

As there has been no response to the P.C’s notice asking for ideas and comments for ways of including the older members of the parish in the community, Councillors conclude that there need to be no special social inclusion measures taken.

TRAFFIC CALMING

Part of the traffic calming scheme has been installed. The “gateway” has yet to be installed on the approach to the village from Street Ashton. The “gate” will be near the present 30 m.p.h. sign. There will be a larger 30 m.p.h. sign with yellow backdrops.
CORRESPONDENCE

A) N.A.L.C. Policy Consultations: a) Community Right to Buy – Assets of Community Value. b) A Community Right to Challenge. Deadline for responses to both is 26/4/11.
B) W.C.C. Facing the Challenge: W.C.C. set its budget on 15/2/11, this document describes the scale of the challenges ahead. For information.
C) N.A.L.C. Good Practice Guides: a) Taking on and Providing Local Services. b) Managing Double Taxation.
D) N.A.L.C. Legal Briefings a) Default Retirement Age b) Sustainable Communities Act 2007 (Amendment) Act 2010.
E) N.A.L.C. Parliamentary Briefing on Localism Bill.
F) W.C.C. Libraries and Information Service: This will be redesigned, with libraries joining for example, one-stop shops for local services and communities. Technology will also play a bigger role in enabling local people to connect and access services. 16 libraries have been identified as unsustainable. A consultation questionnaire is available to complete on-line.
G) W.C.C. Gypsy and Traveller Services – National Awareness Training -  on 11/3/11 at Warwick University.
H) The treasurer of “Round the Revel” has requested a donation towards running costs. As the P.C. has already made a donation this financial year it was decided to defer a further contribution until April.
I) R.B.C. Local Development Framework: Core Strategy Hearing Changes Schedules Consultations. R.B.C. will be holding a 6 week consultation (3 Feb- 17th March) on both Hearing Changes Schedules. No comments.
J) R.B.C. Landscape capacity for wind energy development – Rugby Borough: A study has been commissioned in order to establish an evidence base for R.B.C. carrying out its functions as a Local Planning Authority. The study is approaching completion and the Council has received draft findings from the specialist landscape consultants appointed to undertake the work. A public meeting will be held on Thursday 27th January. On 17/1/11 the Clerk e-mailed all Councillors about the presentation. Mrs. Hartshorn attended.

PLANNING: None

FINANCE

A) Bank Balance: on 28/2/11 the Current Account balance was 3515.91 and the Deposit account balance was £250.11.
B) Payments: at the meeting the following payment was authorized:-
  No. 254  £50.00 to Stretton Under Fosse Village Hall Committee for hire of the Hall over the year.    

ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: None

The date for the next meeting was set for 11th April 2011.

The A.G.M. and Annual Parish Meeting was set for 23rd May.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.20 pm.

 

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on 10th January 2011
Present: - Mr. T. Smith (Chairman)
 Mr. D. Collins (Councillor)
 Mr. E. Vallance    “
 Mrs. S. Hartshorn   “
 Mrs. S. J. Hall (Clerk)
Mr. and Mrs. T. Smith, Mr. B. Ireland. 
 
Apologies were received from Mr. G. Baxter and R.B.Cllr. A. Gillias.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST: None

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SESSION

Mr. and Mrs. Smith and Mr. Ireland informed the Council that H.G.Vs. were driven along Smeaton Lane, probably following sat. nav. directions, and finding the canal tunnel too low for them to go through. As there is not anywhere to turn round near the tunnel, drivers have no choice but to reverse quite a distance to where they can turn round.
The Clerk was asked to contact W.C.C. requesting a sign at each end of Smeaton Lane informing drivers that there is a low bridge/height restriction ahead.

MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: Were read and signed by the Chairman as being a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

A) Traffic Calming: Mr. Collins contacted W.C.C. shortly after the last meeting and was informed that work would commence on the project before Christmas. To date the work hasn’t started – probably owing to inclement weather.
B) Fosse Way sign directing traffic through Stretton Under Fosse: The Clerk reported that W.C.C. has agreed that the sign is pointing in the wrong direction. An amendment to the signage will be made in due course.

NEWS FROM RUGBY BOROUGH COUNCIL: None

THE LOCALISM BILL

The P.C. has received an N.A.L.C. Policy and Parliamentary Briefing on the Decentralisation and Localism Bill, known as The Localism Bill.
Key Points: The Bill is split across five core themes of community empowerment, decentralisation and strengthening local democracy, reform of the planning system, social housing reform and strengthening London’s governance.
Mr. Collins informed the Council that under the Bill the Council could instigate a referendum on local issues (e.g. a wind farm), and to approve or veto excessive council tax rises.
The Bill will introduce a new right for communities to shape their local areas. Neighbourhood plans will enable communities to permit development – in full or in outline – without the need for planning application.
Mr. Collins said it would be up to the P.C. to create a Neighbourhood Plan.
If/when the Bill becomes law the P.C. should receive more information about how to implement it.

CORRESPONDENCE

A) W.C.C. Primary Gritting Routes in Warwickshire – Winter 2010- 2011. The Fosse Way and B4027 will be gritted.
B) W.C.C. Snow warden Scheme: W.C.C. is looking to launch and trail a network of voluntary Snow Wardens and is seeking Parishes that are willing to participate this winter. No comments.
C) From R.B.Cllr. Gillias – Boundary Commission Review – Fosse Ward: The Boundary Commission are intending to include the new housing on Leicester Rd. “Gateway Site” and other existing housing from Avon and Swift Ward into Fosse Ward to equalise the no. of electors per Councillor. A team of Councillors at R.B.C. has been allocated the task of getting information to the Boundary Commission Officers. An on-line questionnaire was sent to the Clerk, to establish where the facilities are, that are used by most of the people within the Parish. The questionnaire was completed and returned by the Clerk before the deadline of 18th Nov.
D) R.B.C. Scrutiny and Policy Dept: What reviews would you like Overwiew and Scrutiny to tackle? Suggestions of issues of local concern that would benefit from a detailed review are invited. Any ideas submitted will be considered on 28th Feb. and the final choice made on 21st March. No suggestions made.
E) Age Concern Warwickshire, Social Inclusion Project: The Social Inclusion Co-ordinator  would be grateful if the P.C. would let her know if it feels that this Parish is lacking in opportunities for the older members of the community, so that Age Concern U.K. Warks. can prioritize the areas in most need of it’s help. Councillors didn’t know whether there were any people in the Parish who feel excluded and felt they should find out. The Clerk was asked to put a notice in the next issue of “Round the Revel” asking for ideas and comments for ways of including the older members of the Parish into the community. It was agreed that “Community Inclusion” should be on the agenda for the next meeting.
F) Warks. Rural Housing Association: a copy of the Association’s Annual Report, for information.

GYPSY CARAVAN SITE OFF SMEATON LANE

Planning Application No. R09/0826/PLN: Change of use of agricultural land off Smeaton Lane to a private gypsy site for 2 caravans (retrospective)
The Planning Inspectorate’s Decision: The appeal is allowed and planning permission granted subject to conditions. The main conditions are: The occupation of the site shall be carried on only by Mr. and Mrs. Smith and their resident dependants. It shall be for a limited period of up to 4 years from 6/01/11. No more than 2 caravans. No commercial activities or storage of materials. No vehicle over 3.5 tonnes.

PLANNING

A) R10/2160 Application by owners of Stretton Lodge for retrospective consent for internal alterations to the kitchen flue. As the deadline for responses was 30/12/10 the Clerk consulted Councillors and then sent a reply in favour of the development. Permission granted on 5.01/11.
B) R10/2058 Proposed development at Malt Kiln Farm Shop for change of use from storage area to storage area and part bakery. As the deadline for responses was 8/12/10, the Clerk consulted Councillors and then sent a reply in favour of the development. Permission granted on 9/12/10.
C) R10/0898 Permission granted for the erection of replacement dwelling with detached garage/store and new access at 9 Smeaton Lane.

FINANCE

A) Precept: The Clerk has received an acknowledgement from R.B.C. following the P.C’s. request for £2,690.
B) Bank Balance: on 31/12/10 the Current Account balance was £1,188.92 and the Deposit Account balance was £232.09.
The Clerk was asked to transfer £18.00 into the D/A to make it just over £250.
C) Payments: at the meeting the following cheques were authorised:-
i. No. 250 £75.76 to E.on for quarterly maintenance
ii. No. 251 £89.72 to E.on for quarterly supply
iii. No. 252 £433.89 to Mrs. S .J. Hall for half Clerk’s salary 2010/11.
iv. No. 253 £55.64 to Mrs. S. J. Hall for Clerk’s expenses 2010/11.
D) Mr. Smith asked the Clerk to send him an up-date on this year’s accounts and payments still to be paid.
E) Mr. Collins informed the P.C. that the Comprehensive Spending Review on the W.C.C. budget may mean the service provided by the Countryside Access Team being discontinued or changed. In future the P.C. may have to pay for fuel for the strimmer used when clearing Public Footpaths.

ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: Community Inclusion

The Clerk suggested that a date be set for the Annual Litter Pick so that it could be advertised in “Round the Revel”. It was decided to hold it on Sunday March 20th.

The date for the next meeting was set for 21st February.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.20 pm.

Minutes of a meeting held at Stretton under Fosse Village Hall on Monday 25th January 2010, at 7.15 p.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: 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..

Latest

2012 Village Hall events here.

Up to date Parish Council Minutes and AGM 2012 Minutes can now be read here

Current items of public interest received by the Parish Council can be read here

Up to date Minutes of the Village Hall Committee and AGM Minutes 2012 can be read here.

The Freedom of Information Act model scheme adopted by Stretton under Fosse Parish Council can be read here

Walk the local footpaths - Read more

LOCAL BUS TIMETABLE - CLICK HERE FOR TIMES

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