Stanhoe Parish Council

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 10th November 2011 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

Present:
Mr. T. Austin (TA)
Mrs. P. Austin (PA)
Mr. D. Bridge (DB)
Mrs. R. Brown (RB)
Mr. M. Roche (MR)
Mrs. P. Roche (PR)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

Two members of the public were also present.

1. To consider accepting apologies for absence
All councillors present.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the previous meeting
P.R. objected to the stark wording of the record of no apologies having been received. Apologies had been received from P.R. and M.R. after the meeting but the Minutes had already been issued. T.A. explained that the Minutes should simply record facts at the time of the meeting.

J.S. asked for a correction to item (9b) to reflect that any residents objecting to a change in flow of traffic proposals for Cross Lane were probably residents from other areas of the village and not residents of Cross Lane itself. He also thought the meeting closed later than 9.30pm. but a later time was not conclusively agreed.

The Minutes from the meeting on 8th September 2011 were then passed and signed by the Chairman.

3. To record declarations of interest from members in any item to be discussed
No declarations made.

4. To adjourn meeting for public participation
No members of public present.

5. SNAP
T.A. had attended meeting held on 6th October 2011 in which the level of drinking and subsequent disruptive behaviour in Hunstanton was discussed. This was a particular problem during the ‘Lifestyle’ festival held in Hunstanton each year. Crime and anti-social behaviour has generally increased with statistics showing an increase of 10% during the last year, however, it was forecasted that there would be a reduction in the coming year. The next meeting is due to be held on 1st December 2011 at 6.00pm. at The Way, Downs Close, Hunstanton.

6. Highway Rangers
Work had been done to verges and area above the palisade fence opposite the pond. Weed filled ditches opposite The Duck Inn were still a problem and had the potential to cause flooding. Clerk is arranging to meet the Highways Engineer in Stanhoe to discuss this and other items.

7. Progress on Village Hall/Reading Room
M.R. (chairman of the MEHM Trust) reported that he would be meeting an architect the following morning to discuss possible alterations and improvements to the village hall. The Trust was also in touch with various bodies which could assist with the formulation of a lottery funding application. This needed to clearly demonstrate ongoing positive outcomes for the local community. Various ideas had been put forward for community activities, including a wine tasting evening and cinema evening. Work was being done currently on devising a new logo for the hall/reading room and it was hoped that finger post road signs would be erected. Some councillors commented that local people would perhaps like to see some targets published as to money raised and potential completion dates on some of the proposals.

8. Amalgamation of Barwick & Stanhoe
This possibility has been discussed for some years. The Borough Council had been considering a review of small parishes and boundaries but this has now been shelved. Although not having its own parish council, Barwick could form a parish meeting group which could then take items forward to its Borough Council representative. It was agreed that amalgamation seemed to have no distinct advantage for either village.

9. Scrap site at Bircham Road/Fakenham Road crossroads
This falls within the boundaries of Docking Parish Council and the clerk had written to that council to enquire if anything could be done to eliminate this eyesore. The reply stated that the owners of the site had applied for planning permission to build two bungalows on the land and, if this was granted, the scrap would be cleared from the site.

10. Updates on ongoing matters
a) War Memorial Instead of paying for professional cleaning, D.B. volunteered to undertake the cleaning assisted by J.S. The memorial was greatly improved by this work and councillors recorded their sincere thanks to both concerned. Some thought was being given to a means of a permanent fixing for the poppy wreath.

b) Cross Lane traffic No further developments.

c) Bottle Bank Clerk had spoken with a member of the waste collection team at the Borough Council and consideration was being given to some form of sound proofing within the bin. Clerk to follow up.

d) Blacksmith’s Workshop The clerk had been unable to establish ownership of this building which was in danger of being lost to the community through lack of attention. Further investigations to be made.

e) Proposed Incinerator at Saddlebow A request had been received for a financial contribution towards the legal costs of the campaign against this proposal. Councillors felt that the parish precept funding could not legitimately be used for this purpose but information was circulated on ways for individuals to contribute if they so wished.

f) Review of polling stations and districts Following discussion at the previous meeting and objections to the proposed changes, the clerk had written to the electoral officer setting out the objections. T.A. had also written to the local M.P. who had in turn written to the Borough Council also expressing objections. A decision is awaited.

g) Overgrown Hedges One village resident had ignored all requests to cut back an overgrowing hedge and the clerk had written to the Highways Dept. asking them to inspect the hedge and clarify if it constituted a highway obstruction. Instead of reporting back to the clerk, a member of the Highways Dept. had written directly but had, unfortunately, sent his letter to the wrong householder who had been offended. The clerk would send a letter of apology to the offended householder and ask the Highways Dept. to do the same. The clerk would also try to arrange a meeting on site with the Highways engineer to discuss the problem hedge and other matters within the village.

11. Update on Wind Farms:
A joint public enquiry is due to be held on 31st January 2012 in connection with the applications for both Chiplow and Jack’s Lane sites.

12. Annual Parish Meeting 2012
This was set for Thursday, 26th April 2012 at 7.30pm. P.R. kindly offered once again to organise refreshments. A specific topic for discussion and the possibility of a guest speaker would be considered.

13. Diamond Jubilee event
A meeting took place on 26th October 2011 attended by representatives of the W.I., the parochial church council, MEHM Trust and the parish council for which Minutes had been circulated. Various ideas for commemorating the event were put forward and it was agreed that a cross organisation working party of probably 6 people should be formed. T.A. and P.A. stated they would be unable to join the working party due to personal circumstances in the coming months. Another meeting had been arranged for 23rd November 2011 when it was hoped the working party would be officially formed. D.B. and J.S. volunteered to represent the parish council.

14. Speed signs for bins
There was an opportunity to purchase from another parish in Norfolk some laminated adhesive signs to attach to refuse bins asking drivers to slow down when driving through the village. The signs could be seen for as long as bins stood by the roadside although there was some doubt expressed by some members as to the effectiveness of signs. It was agreed to purchase 50 signs initially.

15. Planning Matters
Approval had been granted by the Borough for alterations to Grange Bungalow on Docking Road.

16. Financial update and approval of payments
The clerk circulated a statement showing recent income and expenditure and a copy of bank statements. An on-line banking facility was now available to the clerk which enabled only the transfer of funds between the parish accounts and the ability to print off statements. No payments of any kind could be made on-line. Approval was given for the payment of the clerk’s salary.

17. To receive items for the next Agenda
Meeting scheduled for 12th January 2012.

updates on ongoing matters
Diamond Jubilee meeting & plans
geese on village pond
T-junction sign on Bircham Road near village pond
Budget for 2012/13
No other items discussed. Meeting closed at 9.30pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 8th September 2011 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

Present:
Mr T Austin (TA)
Mrs P Austin (PA)
Mr D Bridge (DB)
Mrs R Brown (RB)
Mr J Seedhouse (JS)

Absent:
Mr M Roche (MR)
Mrs P Roche (PR)

One member of the public was present.

Prior to the start of the meeting Ms. Sandi Butcher, one of the new tenants of The Duck Inn, joined councillors to give some information on how they intend to run the business. She explained that they would not be making use of the late license facility nor would they be holding any large events with music, either indoors or outside. They had already made some changes to interior layout and the pub menu and intended to run the business very much as a village pub for local people and hoped this would be supported by local residents. Ms. Butcher was thanked by councillors and she left the meeting.

1. To consider accepting apologies for absence
Neither absentee had offered apologies.

2. To consider approval of Minutes from the previous meeting
These were approved and signed by the chairman.

3. To record any declarations of interest from members in any item to be discussed
No declarations made.

4. To adjourn meeting to allow public participation
The member of the public present requested that the council give consideration to the following items:

a) that Barwick be amalgamated with Stanhoe to form one Parish Council.

b) that the 40mph section on Bircham Road is reduced to 30mph and that a footpath should be installed by the County Council running the full length of Bircham Road.

c) that the unsightly rubbish and old caravans be removed from the property near the crossroads formed at Bircham Road and Fakenham Road (which is actually in Docking Parish) and that letters should be sent to the Borough Council and Docking Parish Council accordingly.

The chairman and clerk explained that, in relation to Item a), enquiries had been made in 2010 and the Borough Electoral Officer had confirmed that the matter would be looked into during a review of small parishes scheduled for 2011.

The chairman confirmed that item b) had been thoroughly investigated in recent years and the County Council Highways Dept. had carried out an extensive survey of the area. The answer was emphatically ‘no’ from the Highways Dept. as a reduced speed limit was considered unenforceable and that no suitable verge existed where a footpath could be created.

With regard to item c), it was agreed that a letter would be sent to Docking Parish Council.

The member of the public thanked councillors for their time and left the meeting.

5. SNAP
T.A. had attended the last meeting of SNAP but, as yet, had received no Minutes of the meeting. He stated that the meeting had been taken up largely with concerns of public disorder in Hunstanton and the presence of drunken individuals and drug takers on the High Street. The police explained that there were usually only two policemen on duty in Hunstanton at any one time and any person arrested for whatever reason had to be taken to King’s Lynn leaving Hunstanton without a police presence. The situation would continue to be monitored.

6. Update on Wind Farms
T.A. said there was little to report at present. RES had appealed against the refusal of planning permission for Jack’s Lane Wind Farm and a joint hearing would take place in mid January 2012 for both this and the Chiplow Wind Farm appeal. A date is yet to be fixed.

7. Review of Polling Districts and Polling Stations
A review is currently being carried out by the Borough and a suggestion made that Stanhoe is combined with Bircham and a polling station for both is sited at the National Construction College in Bircham Newton. T.A. had already written to the local M.P. expressing concern at such a move which could be considered undemocratic as it would make it more difficult for electors to register their votes. All present agreed. The M.P. had replied expressing his concern and had also confirmed that he had written to the Borough. The consultation period for this review ended on 16th September and the clerk would write to the Borough to formally register the parish council’s objections to any change.

8. C.I.P. Closure
The weekly Community Information Point sessions were no longer in operation due to lack of support. The I.T. equipment supplied by the Borough was still available and may be utilised by the MEHM Trust for community purposes.

9. Updates on ongoing matters
a) The Play Area: Broken fencing had been repaired by DB and a vote of thanks was given for all his work. It was agreed a letter of thanks should be sent to Mr. Terry Patterson who had carried out this work in the past but had to stop due to ill health.

b) A further letter had been sent to the County Highways Dept. requesting that a possible solution to speeding traffic in Cross Lane should continue to be considered. It was pointed out by some councillors that some residents would not support any measure other than a possible reduction in the speed limit.

c) The clerk had written to the Borough regarding the noise nuisance caused to nearby residents by use of the bottle bank. The Borough confirmed that they were looking into some form of sound proofing for their bottle banks. A decision should be made in the near future.

d) Ownership of the blacksmith’s workshop had not been established but further investigations would be made as there was still concern that this piece of village history could fall into complete disrepair.

e) A letter had been sent to Eric Pickles M.P., Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government highlighting the concerns of residents over the proposed Incinerator at Saddlebow. This follows previous letters to the Secretary of State for the Environment and the local M.P.

10. Councillors’ Tour of the Village
It was agreed that this should be postponed until Spring 2012.

11. Queen’s Diamond Jubilee 2012
T.A. had received a letter from the village W.I. proposing an event for the Jubilee week-end in 2012 for the whole village which would be a joint venture run by all the village organizations. All agreed this would be a good idea and a positive response would be sent to the W.I. with a view to all concerned meeting in the Autumn to start the planning process.

12. Planning Applications and Approvals
Approval had been granted for an extension and alterations to The Old Post Office on Burnham Road.

An application had been received for an extension and internal alterations to Grange Bungalow, Docking Road. Councillors raised no objections to the proposals but were concerned at the possible increase in the number of cars parked on the roadside due to the enlargement of the property which had no on-site parking facilities. An appropriate comment would be sent to the planning department.

13. Financial Update and Approval of Payments
The clerk circulated a statement showing recent income and expenditure together with copy bank statements. No queries were raised. Approval was given for payment of clerk’s salary and a donation of £100 to the Burnham Market Area Community Car Scheme. The possibility of using Barclays on-line banking services to transfer money between the parish’s accounts would be investigated both with Barclays and the National Association of Local Councils.

14. To receive items for the next Agenda
usual updates on ongoing village matters
Diamond Jubilee event progress
set date for Annual Parish Meeting of 2012
The meeting closed at 9.30pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Wednesday, 14th July 2011 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

Present:
Mr T. Austin (TA)
Mrs P. Austin (PA)
Mrs R. Brown (RB)
Mr J. Seedhouse (JS)

Absent:
Mr. D. Bridge (DB)
Mrs. P. Roche (PR)
Mr. M. Roche (MR)

No members of the public were present.
1. To consider accepting apologies for absence
All absentees had sent apologies and these were accepted.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the previous meeting
J.S. requested that the subject of Cross Lane and possible restrictions to reduce speed and volume of traffic should be considered at each meeting until the matter was finally resolved. The County Council had stated that currently there were no criteria for reduction of speed limit, one way only or access only restrictions and also there were no funds available. J.S. requested that a letter be sent to the County Council asking them to put restrictions in place as and when possible. The clerk reported that she had contacted Debbie Pepper at the County’s “Access4Life– project regarding the lack of bus service but with no positive outcome. The only form of public transport available is the –Diala-bus’ service and the community car scheme. The Minutes were then passed and signed by the Chairman.

3. To record declarations of interest from members in any item to be discussed
R.B. declared that she may have an interest in the planning application as the property concerned was next to her home.

4. To adjourn meeting to allow public participation
No members of public present.

5. Proposed Incinerator at Saddlebow
A planning application had now been submitted by the County Council for this proposal and a six week consultation period put in place during which all parishes within the County would be consulted. There was considerable opposition within the County to the plans and, as agreed at the previous meeting, the Clerk had written to the Rt. Hon. Caroline Spelman MP at DEFRA expressing serious concerns. It was agreed that this letter should now be copied to the Head of Planning and local MPs with a covering letter stressing that a lack of any response from the more distant and possibly unaffected parishes should not be regarded as acceptance of or agreement with the proposals.

6. Village Matters
a) Dogs on the playing field: Although signs existed stating that dogs should be kept off the field, a number of people, both residents and visitors, continued to exercise their dogs there. Although this should be discouraged, it would be difficult to enforce particularly as the field was no longer used for sports. A note would be sent to the MEHM Trustees to whom the field was leased.

b) Re-siting of bottle bank: This is sited next to the village hall but the noise of the disposal of bottles is proving to be a nuisance to some nearby residents. Clerk to contact the Borough Council with a view to re-siting the bin or using an alternative less noisy container.

c) Disposal of dead animals/ birds found in the village: This had proved to be a problem in the past but Councillor D.B. had agreed to dispose of carcasses if notified.

7. Updates on the following
A written update was circulated by the Clerk.

a) Overgrown hedges restricting footpaths and roadways: A notice had been placed in “Saints Alive” and individual letters sent to some residents. There had been an improvement but the matter was ongoing.

b) Repairs to play area fencing: The person who usually does this work is currently unwell. Clerk to contact possible alternative workmen. It was agreed that consideration should be given to a complete replacement of fencing in the long term.

c) Registration of common land and footpaths: The clerk confirmed that the pond and surrounding area is registered as common land and documents are with parish papers. Objections had been raised by some to the proposed re-routing of the footpath around High Barn, however, the original registered footpath has been blocked. The Borough Council is aware and dealing with the matter.

d) War Memorial area: This has been tidied along with the area around the village sign and the edge of the pond.

e) Maintenance of Blacksmith’s workshop: It has not been possible to establish ownership of this building. Further investigation would be made as councillors felt strongly that this important part of the village’s heritage should not be lost through neglect.

f) Refuse bins left on public footpaths: A notice had been placed in “Saints Alive” reminding residents and visitors that bins should not be left out for more than 24 hours around collection time. The situation would continue to be monitored.

8. Councillors’ Tour of the village
This was set for Monday, 8th August starting at 6.30pm. and meeting at the village hall.

9. Odd Job Man: (J. Seedhouse)
J.S. asked if it would be possible to arrange for some-one to regularly tidy the areas around the pond, the war memorial and the village cross. This would be arranged.

10. Village Hall: (D. Bridge)
A village hall user had complained about the general level of cleanliness in the hall and the dirty windows. As the hall was the responsibility of the MEHM Trust, a note would be sent to the Trustees asking them to look into this matter.

11. Queen’s Diamond Jubilee 2012: (P. Austin)
P.A. asked Councillors to give some thought to what could be done within the village to celebrate this event. Possibly some form of permanent commemoration but also a whole village social event on the Jubilee holiday weekend of 2nd to 4th June 2012. This item would be carried forward to next meeting.

12. To consider a planning application for “The Old Post Office”
An application had been made to enlarge an existing extension to run along the rear and west side of the building. Councillors considered the plans and could see no objection. The alterations would not directly affect the property of R.B. who had previously declared an interest in this agenda item. Councillors felt a comment should be sent to the planning authority pointing out that the extension on the west side would be in an area where there had once been petrol fuel pumps and an underground tank. A comment would also be sent stating that it would be preferable for access to on-site parking not to be restricted.

13. To receive an update on financial matters and to approve payments
The clerk distributed an income and expenditure statement from 1st April 2011 showing the current balances of the parish bank accounts. In future, a similar statement would be presented at each meeting with copies of bank statements.

Payments were approved for travel expenses to a councillor attending a training course, for repairs and maintenance to the children’s play area and for the clerk’s salary and expenses over a 2 month period.

14. To arrange further meeting dates
Dates had already been agreed up to January 2012 and further meeting dates were agreed for 8th March / 10th May / 12th July / 13th September and 8th November (all 2012) subject to the village hall being available.

15. To receive items for the next Agenda
The following items were raised:

Updates on ongoing and unresolved matters
SNAP meeting
Diamond Jubilee 2012
Finance
Blacksmith’s workshop
No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 9.15pm.

 

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Wednesday, 11th May 2011 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

Present:
Mr T. Austin (TA)
Mrs P. Austin (PA)
Mr D. Bridge (DB)
Mrs. R. Brown (RB)
Mrs P. Roche (PR)
Mr M. Roche (MR)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

No members of the public were present.
Prior to the start of the meeting, all present signed ‘Acceptance of Office’ forms following their uncontested re-election as councillors for a term of 4 years from Parish/County Election Day on 5th May 2011.

1. Election of Chairman and Vice-chairman
The Clerk invited nominations for the office of Chairman. T.A. was proposed for the office by D.B. and seconded by P.R. All others agreed and T.A. accepted the office of Chairman for the year 2011/12. Councillors thanked T.A. for taking on this role again. The Chairman then invited nominations for Vice-chairman. D.B. was proposed by P.R. and seconded by R.B. All others agreed and D.B. accepted the office for 2011/12.

2. To consider apologies for absence
All present.

3. To consider approval of Minutes of the Previous Meeting
These were passed and signed by the Chairman.

4. To record declarations of interest in any item to be discussed
No declarations made.

5. To adjourn meeting to allow public participation
No members of public present.

6. SNAP
T.A. had been unable to attend the last meeting held on 3rd. March 2011 but had received a copy of the Minutes. No items relevant to Stanhoe had been discussed. Police had reported a slight increase in the level of burglaries in some areas. T.A. also unable to attend meeting on 12th May 2011.

7. Support for Community Information Point
It had been agreed previously that the Parish Council would make up any shortfall in the contributions made by users to cover the hall rental charge. This liability had been less than expected during the preceding 12 months. The financial support would continue but the number of sessions would be reduced to one of 1½ hours per week. If training was involved instead of straightforward computer use, trainees would contribute towards the rental charge. The Borough Council confirmed they would continue to pay for equipment and broadband line rental.

8. Future of Speedwatch
Speed monitoring had been intermittent during the bad Winter weather. Peter Hallinan, the co-ordinator, had stated that he did not want to continue in this role but would be happy to still be part of the team. T.A. said he was willing to take on the role of co-ordinator and had checked the police would accept the change. In future, the Speedwatch team would monitor traffic speed for one hour per week in varying locations around the village. A new rota would be sent to all team members.

9. Local Bus Service
Following the demise of the No: 31 bus route which came through the village once a week, the Clerk had written to the bus company, the Cabinet Member for transport at the County Council and the local M.P. to complain about the total lack of public transport in Stanhoe and ask that consideration be given to providing a limited bus service. There had been no positive responses. The Council blamed lack of funds due to recent budget cuts. The bus company stated that the route was no longer financially viable as the County Council had reduced its subsidies to the bus company for carrying free bus pass passengers. An additional ‘Dial-a-Bus’ had been offered by the Council but this was not regarded as a practical alternative as it had to be booked in advance, had a very limited number of seats and no facility to carry luggage or pushchairs. Clerk is to contact Debbie Pepper of the County’s ‘Access4Life’ project which aimed to make facilities more accessible to village residents. R.B. had also written to all the above on this matter and said she intended to write again to the M.P. as she felt dissatisfied with his contribution.

10. Geese on the Pond
Two geese had been killed and some goslings taken to a new home last year and now been returned so the present count is 3 geese. They have not caused any major nuisance although they do have a tendency to wander on to the road. The situation will be monitored.

11. Hedges along Station Road
It had been noted that some hedges along this road were very overgrown and interfering with passing traffic. Some farm vehicles were driving on to the opposite verge to avoid branches, causing damage to the verge which was upsetting the residents who tried to maintain the verges in attractive condition. Some hedges along Docking Road were also overgrown, causing pedestrians to step into the road to avoid them. It was agreed that a notice would be placed in “Saints Alive” asking all residents to ensure that their hedges were not causing obstructions. The Clerk would also write to some individual residents and check with the Highways Department to see what could be done to resolve the problem.

12. Planning Matters
a) Wind Farms: A planning hearing had been held on 18th April 2011 when the application for Chiplow Wind Farm had been turned down for environmental reasons and partly due to objections from the M.o.D. because of potential interference with radar at RAF Marham. The energy company, E-On, may appeal this decision. A decision on Jack’s Lane Wind Farm was postponed and will possibly come before a hearing on 6th June 2011.

b) Duck Inn Garden Shelter: Planning permission had been granted and the wooden shelter was now in place.

c) Northgate Cottage: A previous application for an extension to this cottage had been refused and an amended plan submitted, however, the application had now been withdrawn

13. Registration of Public Footpaths/By-ways
All such amenities and common land must be officially registered by 2026 or will be lost to public use. In 2010, an application had been made to the Borough by the owners of High Barn to re-route part of the right of way which ran past the barns. The Parish Council had raised no objections but other consultees had objected with the result that the registered route had remained as it was. Some councillors had noted that a new route was, in fact, being used so the Clerk would clarify the situation with the Borough and report back. The Clerk would also check on the status of the common land area of the village pond.

14 Septic Tanks
A recent article in the “King’s Lynn News” had suggested that all owners of septic tanks had to register them with the Environment Agency by 2012 to comply with a new regulation which came into force in 2010. On checking with the Agency, the Clerk discovered that all existing septic tanks would have been registered at the time of building or installation and that registration was being automatically updated by the Agency, therefore, existing owners need do nothing further. An item would be placed in “Saints Alive” to reassure residents.

15. Annual Accounts for 2010/11
The Clerk distributed copies of the Income and Expenditure Accounts to all councillors. No questions were raised and the Accounts were signed off by the Chairman ready to go to audit.

16. Parish Insurance
A figure of £930 had been budgeted for 2011/12 which incorporated an increase on the previous year. The current insurers had requested renewal at a higher than expected figure of £1003. The Clerk obtained two alternative quotes, both of which were lower. Councillors agreed to accept the quote from a broker using Aviva Insurance which could supply exactly the same as existing cover but at the much lower cost of £640. This would be effective from 1st June 2011.

17. To approve payments
The payments approved were:

a) Refund to P.R. for snacks and refreshments bought for the Annual Parish Meeting held on 14th April 2011. Councillors recorded their thanks for her time and effort in organizing this.

b) Annual subscription to the National Association of Local Councils.

c) Annual payment and donation to the MEHM Trust for the use of the village Reading Room for meetings.

d) Normal salary and expenses to the clerk.

18. To receive items for the next Agenda
a) To arrange further parish council meeting dates.

b) To consider solution to the problem of dogs on the playing fields.

c) Possible re-siting of bottle bank.

d) Disposal of dead animals/birds found around the village.

e) To receive updates on:

Overgrown hedges

Repairs to play area fencing

Registration of common land and re-routing of footpath around High Barn.

Tidying of area around War Memorial

Maintenance of the old blacksmith’s shop.

Any Other Business
Although this should not normally be a part of any Agenda, the Chairman allowed J.S. to raise a few points which were:

24 fencing posts had disappeared from around the playing field land. M.R. to contact the landowners to alert them to this fact.

Refuse bins being constantly left out on footpaths by those who were not permanent residents. Borough would be contacted to see if ‘Warning’ notices could be placed on bins.

Cross Lane traffic situation. J.S. would like further requests to the County Council to consider making this lane ‘Access Only’ or ‘One Way’ or to impose speed restrictions.

No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 10.00pm.

 

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 10th March 2011 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

Present:
Mr. T. Austin – Chairman (TA)
Mrs. P. Austin (PA)
Mrs. R. Brown (RB)
Mrs. P. Roche (PR)

Absent:
Mr. D. Bridge (DB)
Mr. M. Roche (MR)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

No members of the public were present.

1. To consider acceptance of apologies for absence
Apologies were accepted from all absentees.

2. To consider approval of Minutes of the last meeting
These were approved and signed by the Chairman.

3. To record declarations of interest from members in any item to be discussed
No declarations made.

4. To adjourn meeting to allow public participation
No members of public present.

5. SNAP
TA had not been able to attend the SNAP meeting held on 3rd March 2011 and had not yet received any Minutes. One of the usual topics of discussion at SNAP meetings was the incidence of crime within the West Norfolk area. Stanhoe has an extremely low level of crime with only one burglary listed on the UK Crime website, however, TA reported having seen and heard possibly suspicious vehicles in the village during the night. RB had had similar experiences. It was agreed that a note could be taken of registration number, make and model of any such vehicles which could be useful in the event of any subsequently reported incident. It was stressed that no-one should take risks in approaching the occupants of any suspicious vehicle.

6. Council support for Community Information Point
Due to the generous donations given by users of the CIP, the level of financial support required from the Parish Council had been less than anticipated with the net cost for 2010/11 being in the region of £200. A representative from the Borough Council had visited and had been impressed by the way in which the facility was used and managed and confirmed that Borough funding would continue.

It is the intention to maintain the CIP for 2011/12 although, depending on the number of volunteers available, the numbers of hours per week may be reduced. A suggestion was made that a CIP session could coincide with a Mobile Library visit to the village which might encourage CIP use and promote the social aspect of the sessions.

7. The Duck Inn Licence – proposed variation
A notification had been received from solicitors representing Elgood’s brewery and the current tenant, Mr. Julian Rivett, to say that an application would be submitted for a variation to the current licensing hours. A meeting was held in the Duck Inn to explain the proposed variation. Those involved were Elgood’s solicitor, a brewery representative, Mr. Rivett and his assistant premises supervisor. Local residents who had written to object to the original proposal in 2010 were invited. TA was one of those present.

In order to run the business profitably and to offer attractive facilities, Mr. Rivett wanted to be able to erect a marquee in the grounds (at the furthest point from the pub and nearby residents) to host wedding receptions/ parties etc. A variation was needed to the licence in order to provide music at such events. He also wanted an extension to the licensed catering hours so that hot drinks and refreshments could be served after 11.00pm. Under the current licence restrictions, nothing hot (not even tea or coffee) could be served after 11.00pm.

The new proposed hours would be 10.00am. to 2.00am. seven days per week with the possibility of live or recorded music until 2.00am. inside and until midnight in the marquee. There would be no more than 12 outside events per year with a maximum of 250 attendees. Guests and their vehicles would be well managed and additional parking would be made available in an adjacent field to avoid any congestion in the village. Mr. Rivett assured everyone that he had considerable experience in organizing events of anything up to 60,000 people and knew how to minimize potential disruption.

The consensus was that the variation application would probably be granted with residents having the power to report any serious disruptions from noise or traffic to the Borough Council who would then take appropriate action.

8. Village Matters
a) Norfolk Green, the operators of the weekly No.31 bus service which came through the village each Thursday on route to Fakenham (and return) had announced the service would end on 7th April 2011. This would leave the village with no public transport whatsoever and would seriously inconvenience and isolate those in the village who had no other means of transport. A community bus service operated on some days but had to be booked in advance. Seats were not always available as only a mini-bus was used. It was agreed that the clerk would write to Norfolk Green to register a complaint and the letter should be copied to the MP and to the Passenger Transport Unit at the County Council.

b) The two remaining geese on the pond were proving to be aggressive on occasion. It was understood that these were wild geese and agreed that the situation would be monitored.

c) The dog waste bin had again become insecure. This would be investigated with a view to securing the current bin to a concrete post and base rather than incur the considerable expense of a replacement.

d) There was a considerable amount of mud on some roads within the village but this had been reported to the highways department. The Community Rangers (a County Council maintenance team) would be visiting the village in the very near future and would hopefully attend to such matters.

e) Work had been done on the Village Cross to remove loose mortar and to re- point with lime mortar and secure loose flint work.

9. Agenda for Annual Parish Meeting on 14th April 2011
A report would be given by the Chairman on Parish Council activities during 2010/11. Peter Morris of the WNVCA would give a presentation on the work of the organization. Mark Roche would give a short presentation on proposals for continuing refurbishment of the village hall and proposed uses. It was also intended that the village Emergency Plan would be explained and discussed. PR kindly offered again to organize refreshments for the evening.

10. Update on Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
Due to RES submitting additional information, the planning hearing had been postponed once again and was now scheduled for 18th April 2011.

11. Proposed Waste Incinerator at King’s Lynn
The Borough had held a referendum on this matter but, despite an overwhelming vote against the proposals, the County Council had decided to proceed with a contract for the development.

12. The Duck Inn Planning Application
An application had been submitted by the brewery for the building of a wooden shelter in the beer garden to house some tables and seating for customers. Having looked at the plan and specifications, councillors agreed that the proposal was acceptable and no objection would be registered.

13. Forthcoming Elections – 5th May 2011
The clerk distributed nomination papers to those interested in standing again for election. Seven vacancies would be available for the Parish Council. If more than this number were nominated, an election would be held. If not, those nominated would be elected unopposed. All papers to be submitted by 4th April 2011. County elections would be held on the same day as well as a referendum on the alternative voting system for election of MPs.

14. To approve payments
This was approved for the clerk’s salary and expenses.

15. To receive items for the next Agenda:
Election of Chairman and vice-chairman
Geese on the pond
Wind Farm
Bus service
Financial accounts for year ending 31st March 2011
The meeting closed at 9.10pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 13th January 2011 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

Present:
Mr T Austin – Chairman (TA)
Mrs P Austin (PA)
Mr D Bridge (DB)
Miss R Brown (RB)
Mr M Roche (MR)
Mrs P Roche (PR)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

No members of the public were present.

Prior to the meeting, a presentation was given by Mr. Peter Morris on “No Cold Calling Zones”. He distributed information booklets, issued by the County Council Trading Standards, which contained information on the setting up of such zones and an application form. The County Council would consider any applications and, if accepted, appropriate signage would be erected in the village warning potential traders of the existence of the zone. Any cold callers who persisted could then be reported to trading standards and legal action taken. It was agreed that consideration would be given this matter and it would be a topic for discussion at the Annual Parish Meeting to be held in April 2011. The Chairman thanked Mr. Morris for his contribution and Mr. Morris then left the meeting.

The Chairman welcomed Mr. John Seedhouse, recently co-opted as a Councillor, to his first Parish Council meeting.

1. To consider accepting apologies for absence
All councillors present.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
It was noted that no notice had yet been put in “Saints Alive” regarding refuse bins being left out on pavements for long periods. TA agreed to do this. The new bench jointly purchased by Ms. Annabel Symington and the Parish Council had still not been put in place by the pond. Ms. Symington had agreed to arrange this and the Clerk would contact her about arrangements. It was agreed that a follow up letter would be sent to the County Council regarding possible changes to traffic flow on Cross Lane. The Minutes were then passed and signed by the Chairman.

3. To record declarations of interest from members in any item to be discussed
No declarations were made.

4. To adjourn the meeting to allow public participation
No members of public present.

5. SNAP
The Chairman had attended the recent SNAP meeting on 6th January 2011. This had been largely about anti-social behaviour in certain areas of Hunstanton. The police do take these matters seriously and any incidents taking place anywhere within the SNAP areas should be reported. Following a change in format, meetings were now much more constructive and allowed greater participation by members of the public. T.A. reported that Burnham Market and North Creake had been successful in bidding for funds to provide sports equipment and play area seating respectively and reminded councillors of the potential for obtaining small grants in this way. The next meeting would be held on 3rd. March 2011. T.A. would not be able to attend and urged others to do so.

6. Trading Standards
This topic had been covered by Mr. Morris’s presentation.

7. Village Emergency Plan
The draft had been updated following previous discussions and, subject to Borough comment, would be presented for acceptance at a future parish council meeting. It would also be a topic of discussion at the Annual Parish Meeting.

8. Code of Conduct
Although no problems had occurred in Stanhoe, the Chairman reminded all councillors of the importance of this Code. The clerk would circulate up to date copies of the Code.

9. Vacancies for Councillors
As a result of the co-option of Mr. Seedhouse, there were currently no vacancies but these could arise at the time of the forthcoming elections in May. Information leaflets on the role of a parish councillor had been circulated in the village in December 2010 but no interest had been shown to date.

10. Proposal to charge Parishes for Local Elections
The Borough had announced that, in future, Parishes would be charged the cost of any local parish elections which previously had been met by the Borough. If these elections were held on the same day as Borough, County or National elections, the cost would be shared but the cost to the parish could still be in the region of £600-£1000 which would have a significant impact on parish funds. These funds came from the Borough but were charged to residents within their council tax so any increased demand would also have to be charged in this way. T.A. had written to the Chief Executive of the Borough Council stating his concerns over the impact on residents’ tax bills but it seems certain that the change in policy will stand.

11. Planning
Jack’s Lane Wind Farm: T.A confirmed that he would be willing to speak to the Planning Committee at the Hearing on 7th February 2011. All agreed that he should oppose this development.

Station Road Drying Store: A planning application had been submitted by High House Farm to extend the grain store to accommodate heating and drying equipment. Concern had been expressed by local residents over possible noise and smell nuisance. The planning department had subsequently stated that no application was needed as the extension came within the range of permitted development. As a result, no objections could be made over potential nuisance. If noise and smell proved to be a nuisance, complaints could then be submitted to the Borough Council.

Ivy Farmhouse Entrance: An application had been received for the alteration of the entrance to create an additional pedestrian gate. Plans were circulated but no objections were raised by Councillors. A positive response would be sent to the planning department.

12. Parish Budget for 2011/12
The Clerk circulated a report showing the financial position as at 31st December 2010 and the projected final expenditure at 31st March 2011. This would be within the 2010/11 budget. Parish Councils had been advised that no increase should be made in parish precepts for 2011/12 and a budget for 2011/12 had been prepared accordingly. Certain costs such as insurance and playing field maintenance were set to rise so every effort would have to be made to control other expenditure. As previously stated in Item 10, the parish precept is received from the Borough but charged back to households in the village as part of the Council Tax. Although the parish precept would not increase for 2011/12, the amount charged to each household would increase slightly since there were fewer households in 2011 than there had been in 2010 so, in order to arrive at the precept total, each household would have to pay a little but more. Acceptance of the budget was proposed by P.R., seconded by D.B. and unanimously agreed.

13. Annual Parish Meeting
This was due to be held on Thursday, 14th April 2011, commencing at 7.30pm. Notices would be in “Saints Alive” and on village notice boards. P.R. agreed to organise refreshments. Suggested topics for discussion during the evening were:

Village Emergency Plan
Trading Standards & “No Cold Calling Zone”
Parish Councillor vacancy
Traffic on Cross Lane
Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
Final details to be confirmed.

14. To approve payments
Payment was approved for the Clerk’s normal salary and expenses and for tax deductions to be passed to HMRC.

15. To receive items for the next Agenda and to agree future meeting dates
The following items to be on the Agenda of 10th March 2011:

Finalise Agenda for Annual Parish Meeting – 14th April 2011
Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
Village Cross
Proposal for incinerator at King’s Lynn
Subject to availability of the Reading Room, future meetings would be held on:

Wednesday, 11th May 2011
Thursday, 14th July 2011
Thursday, 8th September 2011
Thursday, 10th November 2011
Thursday, 12th January 2012
All meetings to commence at 7.00pm.

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 9.30pm.