Stanhoe Parish Council

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 11th September 2014 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)

Prior to the start of the meeting, the appointment of a vice-chairman was made. Mr. Don Bridge stated he would be willing to stand for this office. His appointment was proposed by PA, seconded by PR and unanimously agreed.

1. To consider apologies for absence
All members present.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
Minutes were 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 to allow public participation
One member of the public was present.

5. SNAP Report
TA had attended a recent SNAP meeting. There were still some concerns over anti-social behaviour and excessive noise in some areas of Hunstanton and also parking issues at Heacham Junior School. In general, crime had increased in Norfolk as a whole partly due to more robust reporting procedures, however, crime had slightly decreased within the SNAP area. There were currently no concerns in the Stanhoe area. At the next meeting, scheduled for 6th November 2014, speeding traffic in Syderstone and speeding motor cyclists in Holme would be discussed as well as the problem of heavy vehicles using some unsuitable streets in Heacham. It was noted that the attendees at this year’s Tennis Week in Hunstanton had been the best behaved group recorded to date since the inception of this event.

6. Updates on ongoing matters
Planning applications/decisions: The application for the installation of solar panels at Stanhoe Hall had been turned down. It is understood the applicants may lodge an appeal with the Borough. An application had been submitted to the Borough for an extension to a property in Station Road but drawings and documentation were still awaited by the parish council.
Jack’s Lane Wind Farm: Construction of the turbine bases is complete. Road closures in the vicinity will be lifted but put in place again in Spring 2015 for the transport of plant and equipment away from the site. Barwick Road will be returned to its original state after that time. Due to the inclusion of more properties within the electricity discount scheme, the amount of discount per qualifying household has been reduced from £117 to £100 per annum. The community fund has been set at £30k per annum (inflation linked) for the life of the turbines. The clerical administration of this will be handled by the Norfolk Community Foundation but decisions on allocation and spending of funds will be made by a panel of representatives from the affected areas. The panel will be set up in due course and terns of reference formally agreed with the energy company.
Repairs to the shed adjacent to the village hall: MR confirmed that the MEHM Trust had appointed someone to carry out the necessary work.
Trees around the village pond: A resident had requested that the parish council consider severely pruning a tree which casts a shadow on his property. It has been established that no tree preservation order exists for the tree in question but it does stand on common land which may have legal implications on any work done. This is to be investigated further by the clerk but it seems unlikely, in any case, that the parish council could fund such work.
7. Playground Equipment & Inspection
An annual safety inspection was done by a ROSPA approved inspector and a good report received. Following the removal of the fence, the fence posts have now been removed. On the advice of the inspector, the small moveable goal post has been repaired and is awaiting fixings to secure it to the ground. The junior swing which was replaced last year was showing signs of splits in the timber posts. Under guarantee, the suppliers have completely replaced all the timber.

8. Possible village inspection
It was agreed to hold this in the Spring 2015.

9. Parish Council succession planning
The current term of office ends in May 2015 at which time an election will be held for the appointment of a new parish council. A number of existing councillors have stated that they will not seek re-election, therefore, there is a pressing need for local residents to offer themselves as prospective parish councillors from Spring 2015. It is important to maintain a full and active council as the alternative would be for parish matters to be taken over by the Borough Council which would involve people who had little or no knowledge of matters relating to Stanhoe. All residents are welcome to attend any or all parish council meetings. The next meeting will be on Thursday, 13th November 2014 and further dates are listed on the village website or in Saints Alive. The clerk can be contacted at any time for information.

10. Highways
Following road accidents at the junction of Bircham Road and Burnham/Docking Roads beside the pond, the County Council agreed to re-paint the white road markings. To date, this has not been done but will be chased up. Recent Highway Ranger work has cleared shrubbery from partly obscured road signs around the village. RB pointed out that the –Give Way’ sign, at the road junction from North Creake on to Burnham Road opposite Mill House, is in need of repair. The clerk will contact Highways.

11. Financial Report & approval of payments
The clerk circulated Income and Expenditure reports, Budget reports and Bank Statements to date in the current financial year. No queries were raised. Payment was approved for the clerk’s salary and expenses and an authorisation letter to Barclays was signed for the cancellation of a subscription.

12. To receive items for the next Agenda
The following items were suggested for the next meeting due to be held on 13th November 2014:

Planning matters
Wind Farm
SNAP
Trees at the pond/Common Land
Update on repairs to the shed
Possible new councillors
Items may be presented to the clerk up to one week before the meeting date.

Prior to the close of the meeting, the clerk announced changes to the Borough’s collection of recycled items which would take effect from 1st October 2014. Information would be circulated to all households. RB commented on the poor quality of the compostable bags purchased from the Borough and the clerk agreed to investigate.

No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 9.15pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 10th July 2014 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. M. Roche (MR)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

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

1. To consider apologies for absence
Apologies had been offered by both absentees and were accepted.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
Minutes were 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 to allow public participation
No public present.

5. SNAP Report
TA had attended a meeting on 3rd July. The usual problems of anti-social behaviour in the Hunstanton area were discussed. There is a particular problem of noise in Westgate, Hunstanton after pub and club closing times. Since the previous meeting there had been 2 domestic burglaries, 6 break-ins to garden sheds, 4 motor vehicle thefts and 2 break-ins to cars. A number of potential domestic abuse incidents had been reported and investigated.

Dog fouling continues to be a problem in some areas. If the names of dog owners are known they can be passed to the relevant PCSO who will visit those concerned.

It was noted that parking vehicles on or partly on the pavement is an offence. There is currently a clampdown on such parking in Cambridge where fines of approximately £30 are being imposed.

The possibility of forming a police cadet force was discussed for King’s Lynn and Hunstanton.

Councillors were reminded that any cold calls by telephone or unsolicited e-mails regarding possible financial investments were almost certainly a type of scam. Word should be spread around to remind residents to be extremely careful.

6. Update on Planning Matters
Due to a Borough planning department deadline, a separate meeting had been held the previous week to discuss the new application for the installation of solar panels at Stanhoe Hall. Councillors were concerned by some contradictory statements in the application which they passed on to the Borough. Councillors also requested that, should permission be granted, a condition should be that adequate evergreen planting should be put in place to permanently screen the panels from view. Permission has been granted for the erection of 3 holiday cottages on the site of Mill House, Burnham Road.

7. Update on Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
RES has issued a letter regarding the local electricity discount scheme (LEDS). The criteria for qualification which are applied nationally have resulted in some properties in Stanhoe and many properties in Syderstone not qualifying for the discount. RES will supply a map showing the areas which will receive LEDS but has confirmed that the criteria will not be changed. At the next CLG meeting on 23rd July 2014, TA will raise the matter of the materials used for the widening of Jack’s Lane which do not seem to be in keeping with the original proposals.

8. Village Emergency Plan
The draft plan has been finalised. Acceptance was proposed by RB, seconded by PA and agreed by all. Copies will be circulated to all councillors and the clerk.

9. WW1 Commemoration
On Friday 1st August 2014 there will be a wreath laying ceremony at the village war memorial at 11.00am. On Sunday 3rd August there will be a service with various readings held at 11.00am. in Sedgeford Church, led by Rev. Peter Cook.

10. Tree at the east end of village pond
A resident has asked if it would be possible to reduce the height of this particular tree as it casts a shadow on his property. A full discussion of this item was postponed until the next parish council meeting to allow councillors time to establish if the tree has a preservation order and what would be the consequences and costs of any alteration.

11. Increase in dog fouling in the village
The problem exists to some extent all year round but does seem to increase at holiday times with the increase in visitor numbers.

The situation will be monitored and an item placed in –Saints Alive’ reminding dog owners to clean up after their dogs.

12. Repairs to shed adjacent to the village hall
Following discussion of this item at the previous meeting, the clerk wrote to the MEHM secretary requesting a quotation for the cost of repairs to which the parish council would consider a donation. No reply was received. MR (also chairman of the MEHM Trust) acknowledged that repairs were needed and would try to progress this matter.

13. Dates & Times of future meetings
The following dates were agreed provisionally for 2015:

January 8th
March 12th
April 30th
July 9th
September 10th
November 12th
With the exception of April 30th, all meetings would be held at 7.00pm. in the village hall. The meeting on April 30th would be at 6.00pm. to be followed at 7.30pm. by the Annual Parish Meeting also in the village hall.

Parish Council Elections are due to be held in May 2015, therefore, the above dates and times may be subject to alteration depending on decisions of councillors elected at that time.

14. Financial Report & approval of payments
The clerk circulated Income and Expenditure and Budget reports to date in the current financial year. No queries were raised. Payment was approved for the clerk’s salary and payment of PAYE tax due to HMRC.

15. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 11th September 2014
The following items were suggested:

Tree at the pond
Update on Wind Farm
SNAP Report
Update on repairs to shed
Planning matters:
Possible village inspection
Annual playground inspection
Any other items could be submitted to the clerk up to one week before the next meeting.

No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 8.30pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 29th May 2014 at 6.00pm
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. M. Roche (MR)
Mrs. P. Roche (PR)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

Absent:
Mr. D. Bridge (DB)

1. Election of Chairman and Vice-chairman
TA, Chairman, indicated that he would be willing to serve another term. TA was proposed as chairman by PR and seconded by MR. Due to the absence of the existing Vice-chairman following major surgery, it was agreed to postpone the election of a Vice-chairman until a later date. Councillors wanted to record a vote of thanks to TA for all his hard work and for accepting the chairmanship for a further year.

2. To consider apologies for absence
Apologies had been offered by DB due to recent major surgery and were accepted.

3. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
These were passed and signed by the Chairman.

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

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

6. Planning Matters
The solar panels at Stanhoe Hall had not been installed in the position shown on the planning application. Following a number of complaints, the parish council had asked the Borough to investigate the matter. The owners had written to the Chairman to explain that the application had been submitted incorrectly by the company due to install the panels and the current position was always what had been intended. A new application is being submitted for the current positioning and will include details of extensive planting to screen the panels from roadside view. The clerk will check with the Borough Planning Dept. if the new application has been received. It should be noted that the parish council does not have the power to refuse planning permission but is merely consulted for an opinion.

An application, for the demolition of the existing Station Farm Cottage and the erection of a replacement dwelling, was withdrawn prior to consideration by the Borough. Neighbours are anxious that any development should have an agricultural restriction placed on it, in line with nearby properties, which would require the dwelling to be occupied full time by an agricultural worker. This restriction has been in place for many years and has been upheld by the Borough in the case of a nearby property.

The application for the erection of three holiday cottages on the site of Mill House, Burnham Road has been recommended for approval by the Borough at their next planning meeting.

7. Update on Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
A Community Liaison Group (CLG) meeting had been held on 21st May in Syderstone. The original contractors appointed had gone into liquidation but new contractors had been appointed and work was progressing.

TA had noticed that, in widening the lane to allow for construction traffic, simple hardcore had been put down which was not what had originally been suggested. It was thought that a system ‘grasscrete’ blocks would be used which allow grass could grow up through them thereby maintaining some sort of green verge. TA would query this with RES.

The domestic electricity discount scheme had been discussed with the criterion for eligibility being that a property should be within 2. 4km of a turbine. Any property outside this limit but with an identical postcode to properties within the limit would also receive the discount. Unfortunately, there are some properties in Stanhoe which will not receive the discount as they are outside the limit and have a separate postcode. TA had raised this matter at the CLG meeting but it seemed that no exceptions could be made as the same situation existed in Syderstone with many more properties being affected.

The community fund of approximately £30k will be allocated using different criteria, yet to be finalised. The fund will be administered by the Norfolk Community Foundation based on decisions made solely by an independent panel of representatives from the areas affected.

8. Year End Accounts
The clerk circulated copies of the accounts for the year ended 31st March 2014. Unusually, there had been an excess of expenditure over income for the year of £948 due to the unexpected need to replace the junior swings in the playground as a result of rotten timbers on the previous ones. The cost, including some other minor repairs, had come to £1,784. By making savings elsewhere, the difference of £836 had been met from the annual precept, however, the overspend had now depleted the funds held in reserve.

There was a query regarding the lack of any donation to the MEHM Trust in 2013/14 (which in recent years had been £100 per year) but, in order to make savings, no donations had been given to any charitable organizations in 2013/14. No other queries were raised. Acceptance of the accounts was proposed by PA, seconded by MR and agreed unanimously.

9. Financial Report & Approval of Payments
The clerk circulated a financial update for the period from 1st April 2014 to the date of the meeting. No queries were raised. Payment was approved for the clerk’s salary.

10. Possible donations to charitable organizations
A number of charities had sent requests for donations. After some discussion, it was agreed that £100 should be donated to the Burnham Market Area Community Car Scheme (BMACCS) which directly benefited many local residents.

A suggestion was made that a possible donation to the MEHM Trust should be for a specific purpose. For some time, the need for repairs to the shed adjacent to the village hall had been discussed. This was the responsibility of the Trust and it was agreed that the clerk would write to the Trust secretary requesting that an estimate be obtained for the necessary repairs. The parish Council could then decide on a level of contribution towards the costs.

An annual subscription had been paid in recent years to the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) but this would be increasing substantially in financial year 2014/15. It was agreed that membership of the organization was not necessary so the subscription should be cancelled.

11. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 10th July 2014
Items put forward were:

Village Emergency Plan
Repairs to shed and possible contribution to costs
Increase in dog mess around the village
Dates & times of future meetings including Annual Parish Meeting
Councillors were reminded that Agenda items could be presented to the clerk up to one week before the meeting date.

No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.15pm. to be followed at 7.30pm. by the Annual Parish Meeting, open to all local residents.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 13th March 2014 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. M. Roche (MR) (arrived 8.30 pm)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

Absent:
Mrs. P. Roche (PR)

1. To consider apologies for absence
An apology was received from PR for absence and from MR for anticipated late arrival due to train delays.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
Minutes were 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 to allow public participation
One member of the public was present and raised the following points:

Speed of traffic on Bircham Road continues to be a problem and white lines, especially at the junction with Burnham Road, have become worn and obscured.
Many residents in the village had complained that they had not been notified of the CLG Wind Farm meeting held on 12th March at Syderstone.
Some caravans had arrived in the wood behind Stanhoe Hall where there was no official site.
Church graveyard requires some maintenance.
Another vehicle had crashed into the palisade fence opposite the pond (the third within about a year). Is there the possibility of an additional warning sign?
A tree planted on the playing field in memory of a former resident and councillor appears to have died off. Is a replacement possible?
Scrap site at Bircham crossroads continues to be an eyesore and seems to be encroaching on to the adjoining paddock.
In the same order as shown above, the councillors’ responses were:

This matter is currently being dealt with by the parish council. (see Item 9)
The CLG meeting had been well advertised in advance. A poster supplied by the energy company had been displayed on the village notice board, an article had been placed in Saints Alive giving date and time of the meeting and an advertisement had been placed on the village website.
Councillors would investigate this matter and report back.
Graveyard maintenance is the responsibility of the Parochial Church Council to whom the Parish Council had donated a sum of money towards upkeep.
Highways department was aware of the damage to the fence and would carry out repairs in due course. An additional warning sign on approach to the junction is a strong possibility.
Councillors would investigate the state of the tree and consider what could be done.
The Borough Council is aware of this situation which is difficult to control as the scrap site has been operating legally for approximately 70 years. Clerk would contact the Borough again.
5. SNAP
TA attended the meeting held on 6th March 2014. The usual topics associated with Hunstanton were discussed. Dog fouling can be a problem in some areas but, if known, the name and address of the owner of the offending dog can be passed to the local PCSO who has the authority to issue a fixed penalty notice (£60) to the owner.

It was reported that crime figures have been falling over the last 2 years with crime in general down by 14%. Anti-social behaviour, on which the police have been concentrating some effort, has come down by 23%. The next meeting will be on 1st May 2014 with topics of anti-social behaviour and car parking on pavements on the Agenda.

6. Update on Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
A CLG meeting had been held the previous evening in Syderstone village hall. Site construction has started and road closures are in place to enable the necessary widening of some access roads to the site and for health and safety reasons. Diversion signs are in place but an additional sign stating “No construction traffic beyond this point” will be placed at Bircham/Docking crossroads.

The size and output of the turbines has been decided, therefore, the community and local electricity discount levels have been decided. The community fund will be £30k per annum but no breakdown is yet available of what the individual communities concerned will receive.

The electricity discount has been set at £117 per household for all those within 2.4km of a turbine. A letter and application form will be sent to each household and it is the responsibility of residents to register for the discount with their own electricity supplier. It is probable that the Norfolk Community Foundation will administer the fund based on decisions made by the Decision Panel which will be made up of representatives from each community.

7. Village Playground
All the new equipment has been installed and all outstanding repairs done. A new sign has been erected at the entrance to the play area. The old wooden fence around the toddlers’ play area will be removed by TA/DB/JS on a date to be agreed by them but before the Easter school holiday period starts.

8. Village Emergency Plan
TA circulated a final draft of the plan which will be adopted by 21st March if no adverse comments are received before then. The adopted copy of the Plan will be circulated to all councillors and clerk with a copy also going to the Construction College at Bircham for their information since they kindly offered to provide shelter and services in the event of a major emergency.

9. Bircham Road Traffic (PA)
PA had written to the Council Highways department and to the local MP regarding speed restrictions on Bircham Road and also about the fact that many large trucks and agricultural vehicles are too big for the width of local roads causing deterioration of verges and problems to other vehicles at some junctions.

PA stressed to the Council and MP the need for the 30 mph restriction to start at the parish boundary on Bircham Road where there is currently a 40 mph limit although Highways department have stated that there are no criteria for this.

An alternative option would be for the electronic flashing speed sign of 40 mph to be moved to the 30mph boundary which is where the parish council had wanted it originally. Highways had insisted on its current location showing 40 mph but this gives the false impression to some drivers that the speed limit is 40 mph throughout the village. Currently the Highways department will only consider moving this sign if the costs of approximately £2,000 are met by the parish council. PA is awaiting further replies to her correspondence.

10. Planning Matters
The clerk reported that permission had been granted to Stanhoe Hall for the erection of solar panels in the grounds, however, it has been noted that some panels have been installed in the field adjacent to Stanhoe Hall towards Docking. The clerk will contact the Borough Planning department regarding this matter.

11. Telephone Kiosk
The clerk reported that the line had been repaired and the kiosk cleaned after a request to BT. After some discussions with BT the clerk had obtained assurances that a door would be installed on the kiosk to prevent fouling by ducks and geese from the pond and to generally keep the kiosk in a far cleaner condition. This should be completed by the end of March.

12. Litter bins & suggested additional dog waste bin
The housing for the litter bin at the Bircham Road end of the pond had been detached from its fixings during recent stormy weather. DB has effected a temporary repair but this may require more work in future.

The clerk had been approached by the Parochial Church Council about the possibility of an additional dog waste bin on Church Lane in the hope of alleviating the problem of dog waste in the churchyard. Permission would have to be sought from both the Borough Council and the County Council and the PCC would be expected to bear the cost of such a bin which could be a few hundred pounds. This information was passed back to the PCC who would discuss it at a future meeting.

13. Proposed Village Fete – August 2014
This idea has now been abandoned.

14. Update on ongoing matters:
a) Cross Lane traffic restrictions – no developments

b) Geese on the pond – no problems but one goose appears to have an injured foot. A local resident is contacting the RSPCA.

c) Repairs to the storage shed beside the village hall – MR undertook to raise the matter with the MEHM Trust who owns the shed.

15. Annual Parish Meeting
This will be held on 29th May at 7.30pm. and a notice will be placed in Saints Alive. Invitations to attend will be delivered to each household in the village along with the newsletters for both March and April. The normal parish council meeting will be on the same evening and will start at 6.00pm. It was agreed that the Agenda would be kept brief on that occasion.

16. Financial Reports and approval of payments
The clerk presented an up to date income and expenditure report together with copy bank statements and a budget to date report. No questions were raised.

An invoice had been received from the MEHM Trust for the annual hire charge of the village hall at a cost of £100. In previous years an additional donation of £100 had been given to the Trust, however, due to the unforeseen very large expense required for the upkeep of the play equipment, it was decided to postpone a decision on a donation to the next meeting which would be after the end of the current financial year. Councillors would then consider it along with other requests for donations which had been received. Approval was given for the payment of £100 hire cost and payment of the clerk’s salary.

17. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting on 29th May 2014
The following items to be discussed:

Planning Matters
Donations
Finance & Year End A/cs.
It was agreed that a summary of items discussed which had been published in Saints Alive after the last meeting was a good idea and had been well received. This policy would continue.

The meeting closed at 9.10pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Wednesday, 8th January 2014 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)

1. To consider apologies for absence
No apologies. All councillors present.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
Minutes were 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 to allow public participation
No public present.

5. SNAP
TA had been unable to attend. The Agenda had focussed on the usual items of crime prevention and reporting. Anti-social behaviour in some areas was still a problem but was constantly being monitored. It was noted that recently there had been some thefts of heating oil in Stanhoe.

6. Update on matters relating to Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
Prior to the meeting, information had been circulated about the proposed road closures during the construction process. Permission had been sought from the County Council for a period of 18 months but this was thought to be excessive as the developers had indicated that the whole construction process should be completed within 12 months. There was also some discussion of the possibility that roads could be closed from Monday to Friday only and open at weekends when no construction work would be done. This was put to a vote with the result of 4 to 3 being in favour of closure from Monday to Friday only. The clerk was requested to send a letter to the County Highways Department stating that the closures should be for the minimum number of months required from Monday to Friday only and that absolutely no construction or site traffic should use the diversion route which will come through part of the village.

7. Playground equipment, repairs and signage
Clerk confirmed that the order had been placed for the new Junior swings and all other necessary repairs to the playground equipment. Work is due to start week commencing 27th January 2014. A new sign had been ordered and received giving information about the exact location of the playground in case of the need to call emergency services and giving contact details for the parish council who had responsibility for the play area.

8. Financial reports and approval of payments
The clerk presented an up to date income and expenditure report together with copy bank statements and a budget to date report. She pointed out that the £1,700 plus VAT which councillors had agreed to spend on play equipment was totally unplanned, however, the play area maintenance budget would probably be about £300 underspent by the end of the financial year and this could go towards the cost of new equipment. Some other budget areas would also be slightly underspent meaning that the reserves would be reduced by approximately £1,000 rather than the full £1,700. All VAT would be refunded in due course. Councillors accepted the reports and approved payment of the clerk’s salary, expenses and PAYE tax due to HMRC.

9. Budget proposals for 2014/15
The clerk circulated a draft budget for 2014/15 based on a precept of £5,500 which had been the figure since 2010. The budget included an amount for ongoing repairs and maintenance to play equipment which would be necessary each year in future as the equipment is now over 10 years old. There would be no amount available to be allocated to reserves. After much discussion, it was agreed unanimously that the precept should increase to £6,500 for 2014/15 which would allow for the reserves to be built up again and provide for unforeseen necessary expenditure. The additional £1,000 would represent an increase of about £8 per household on the existing contribution level based on a Band D property.

10. Annual Parish Meeting
This was scheduled for Thursday, 29th May 2014 at 7. 30pm. TA had arranged a guest speaker, Flt. Lt. Gary Walker, the community relations officer from RAF Marham who would speak about military flying over and around Stanhoe. PR offered to arrange refreshments for the meeting. There would be a normal parish council meeting at 6. 00pm. on the same evening.

11. Village telephone box
TA had discovered that the telephone was out of order and that the box itself was in an extremely dirty condition. BT had previously refused to install a box with a door but the existing box, being situated opposite the pond, was constantly being fouled by ducks and geese as well as being open to all the usual weather elements. The clerk would report the line fault and write to BT in an effort to get a unit installed with a door. The letter should be copied to the County Councillor and the local MP.

12. Update on ongoing matters:
a) Cross Lane traffic – no developments

b) Geese on the pond – no serious problems reported

c) Repairs to the storage shed at the village hall – some rotten timbers at the base need attention. MEHM Trust to undertake.

d) Palisade fence opposite the pond – following a car crash, the fence had been repaired, however, the road name sign for Burnham Road had not been re-erected. The clerk would contact Highways department.

It was also noted that the refuse collectors did not seem to be closing the doors to the housing for the waste bins around the pond after emptying them. The clerk would inform the Borough refuse department.

13. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 13th March 2014
The following items were raised:

Village emergency plan
Jack’s Lane wind farm
Village playground
Telephone box
Usual updates on ongoing matters
No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 8. 50pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 7th November 2013 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)
Mr. J. Seedhouse (JS)

Absent:
Mrs. R. Brown (RB)
Mr. M. Roche (MR)
Mrs. P. Roche (PR)

1. To consider apologies for absence
Apologies had been offered in advance by all absentees and were accepted.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
Minutes were 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 to allow public participation
No public present.

5. SNAP
A SNAP meeting was also in progress this evening so TA was unable to attend. During discussions at the last parish council meeting, it had been suggested that an article should go into Saints Alive stating that Stanhoe was a largely crime free area. On reflection it was felt that this might give a false sense of security and discourage residents from being vigilant especially as there had been some evidence of outside gates and property being disturbed by strangers.

Following on from the last SNAP meeting, TA had requested clarification from the police on rules governing agricultural vehicles on the highway. Any vehicle wider than 2.55 m is limited to a speed of 20 mph. Wider and larger vehicles have a further reduced speed limit and require notification to the police of when and where they are travelling. In some cases, a smaller warning vehicle must accompany the extremely large one.

6. Adoption of Policy Documents
Standing Orders, Financial Regulations and a Freedom of Information Policy had all been circulated to councillors in recent weeks. No alterations were suggested and DB proposed acceptance of all three documents. This was seconded by PA and unanimously agreed.

7. Village Playground
Following the usual fortnightly inspection, TA had reported wear and tear on some plastic joints on the pyramid net tower and on some shackles attaching chain links to wooden beams. An estimate for supply and fitting of replacement parts had been obtained from Joy Playgrounds, who had carried out work previously. The cost including a prior inspection visit would be £690 plus VAT. This was considered to be expensive and the clerk was asked to try to obtain some alternative quotes but it was suggested that repairs could be done by Joy Playgrounds if no better alternative could be found. TA pointed out that we are bound by insurance obligations to ensure that all the equipment is in good order and that future provision should be made in annual budgets to cover the cost. Should future repairs and maintenance prove too costly, consideration would have to be given to removing the play items completely. It was thought that a sizeable increase in precept to cover costs, which would result in a substantial increase in council tax would not be acceptable to residents.

As part of health and safety requirements for the playground a new notice is required showing ownership, location and contact details in case of emergencies. The clerk had obtained quotes for two options; one in moulded polyurethane at a cost of £432 plus VAT and one in digitally printed aluminium at £77.08 plus VAT. It was proposed by PA that the council should proceed with the repair work and the supply of an aluminium sign. This was seconded by JS and agreed unanimously.

8. Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
Prior to construction work commencing, Community Liaison Group (CLG) meetings would take place with the first meeting being held on Wednesday, 4th December 2013 at 7.00pm. in the village hall.

9. Speed Signs on Bircham Road
The clerk had contacted the County Council to request that the 40 mph stretch of Bircham Road should be reduced to 30 mph and the electronic speed sign altered accordingly. This suggestion was rejected but an offer was made to move the electronic sign to the 30 mph boundary to flash a warning at that speed. The cost would be approximately £2000 but under the Parish Partnership Scheme, the village would pay 50% of the cost with the balance being paid by the County. Councillors agreed that this was a matter for future discussion depending on finance.

10. Water mains leakages on Bircham Road
As requested, the clerk had written to Anglian Water regarding the recent substantial mains leakages on this road. A reply had been received which set out future plans for the upgrading of mains water supplies in the area. This reply had been put in the bundle of circulation documents.

11. Highways
Highways Department was aware of the recent vehicle crashes into the palisade fence opposite the pond and damage to road signs. Repair work would be carried out in due course but, in the meantime, roadside shrubbery had been severely cut back to enable the road junction warning sign to be clearly visible on the approach to the pond area.

12. Planning Matters
Permission had been granted for the erection of a two storey extension to the property ‘Leo’ on Docking Road which would replace the existing single storey one.

Two revised applications had been received. An original application for change of use for the scrap site at the corner of Bircham Road and Docking Road and the erection of two bungalows had been rejected as it included only part of the site. A revised application now included the full site for change of use. Although not in Stanhoe Parish, the Borough Council had asked for comments. Councillors were happy to agree to a change of use and erection of two bungalows provided all evidence of scrap was removed from the site. Comments would be submitted accordingly. The second application referred to the demolition of Mill House on Burnham Road and erection of a replacement building. Some modifications had been made to the design of the new building but all were found to be acceptable by councillors.

13. Possible planting of poppy seeds
PA reported that packets of poppy seeds were on sale at B&Q in aid of the British Legion to encourage people to plant seeds as part of the First World War centenary events of 2014. It was agreed that the clerk would purchase some packets for use around the village.

14. Update on ongoing matters
a) Cross Lane traffic control – no developments

b) Geese on the pond – no problems

c) Repairs to the shed beside the village hall – work to be undertaken by MEHM Trust.

15. Change of date for Annual Parish Meeting
This had been previously arranged for 22nd May 2014 but this coincided with the village hall being used as a polling station for European elections. The following Thursday, 29th May 2014 was agreed.

16. Financial Reports and Approval of payments
The clerk presented an up to date income and expenditure report together with copy bank statements and a budget to date report. She pointed out that some budget areas would probably be underspent in the current financial year and those spare funds could be put towards the cost of playground repairs. No questions were raised and approval was given for the usual payment of the clerk’s salary.

17. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 8th January 2014
The following items were suggested:

Playground repairs & sign
Wind Farm CLG meetings
SNAP
Budget Proposals for 2014/15
Update on ongoing matters
No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 8. 50pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 12th September 2013 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

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

Absent:
Mrs. P. Austin (PA)

1. To consider apologies for absence
PA had offered an apology for not being able to attend and this was accepted.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
RB pointed out an error in Item 10. Mill House is situated on Burnham Road not Bircham Road as stated. This was corrected and the Minutes were 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 to allow public participation
One member of the public was present and welcomed to the meeting.

5. SNAP
TA had attended a recent meeting. There had been fewer instances of anti-social behaviour in Hunstanton, however, there had been 17 cases of criminal damage partly due to some poor behaviour of those attending the annual tennis week. The vast majority was well behaved. There had been rumours of break-ins in Stanhoe but these were false. There were no reported crimes in Stanhoe.

The previous 2-month period had shown a 4% reduction in crime on the same period last year. 18 violent crimes had been reported, of which 12 were domestic and the remainder of various types. Most recorded burglaries had been to outbuildings. TA agreed to place an article in Saints Alive informing residents of the lack of any crime in Stanhoe and the general reduction elsewhere in the North West Norfolk area.

6. Jack’s Lane Wind Farm
RES, the company constructing the wind farm, is currently appointing the necessary contractors to be involved. Work is due to commence within the next few months from September 2013. A press release has been placed on the Stanhoe website by a public relations company on behalf of RES, setting out a proposed timetable of the work and giving some details of the community fund which will be paid by RES to the communities affected by the wind farm. As part of a government initiative, there would also be some electricity discounts given by RES to a certain number of households based on post codes in relation to the wind farm site. Exact details of all these payments will emerge in due course.

7. Village Playground
Following an agreement with parish council insurers, inspections can be done fortnightly instead of the original requirement for weekly inspections. TA and the clerk had each carried out recent inspections. Some minor repairs were required and supplies were on order.

a) New signs were required at the entrance to the playground area showing the name of the owners with a contact telephone number, the address and postcode of the playground. There should also be a statement to the effect that no kites should be flown in the playground area (due to overhead power cables). TA and clerk to organise necessary signs.

b) Participation by councillors in the inspection rota would be appreciated. Some training could be given by TA and the clerk or more formal training could be arranged with a RoSPA representative. The clerk would circulate the inspection form for information.

c) Once supplies have been delivered, repairs will be carried out by TA, DB & JS. This will include removal of existing fence.

8. Results of individual inspection village
MR & PR reported damage to overhanging trees on Church Lane caused by heavy lorries. This lane is totally unsuitable for heavy traffic and it was hoped Highways department could enforce some form of restriction. JS reported the following:

untidy area around the war memorial
public rubbish bin at eastern end of the pond has the housing door open
hedge adjacent to village hall requires trimming
car park to village hall needs weeding
broken glass and rubbish on the ground beside the bottle bank needs to be removed
mounds of grass clipping on play area (it was explained by MR that this was a result of preparing a cricket pitch prior to matches)
untidy area around the Diamond Jubilee tree
bins of soil next to the play are being used as rubbish bins. This soil is kept there to fill potentially hazardous rabbit holes on play area.
grass area around village cross needs to be trimmed
newest area of churchyard needs to be weeded and tidied.
It was agreed that all the above items would be dealt with and were the responsibility of the Parish Council, the MEHM Trust and the PCC.

9. Electronic speed sign on Bircham Road and possible pedestrian signs
A suggestion had been made that signs could be placed on Bircham Road stating “No footpath” OR “Pedestrians on road” which might encourage motorists to take more care when driving along this stretch of road into the village. It had been noted by the speed watch team that drivers took very little notice of the 30mph signs on Bircham Road. One reason for this could be the normal 40mph sign and the flashing electronic 40mph sign at the village boundary on Bircham Road which drivers possibly mistook for the speed limit governing the whole village. Two alternative suggestions were made; firstly, that the speed limit on Bircham Road should be reduced to 30mph and the signs altered accordingly or secondly, that the electronic flashing sign should be moved to the starting point of the 30mph limit and be changed to show that speed limit. It was noted that the other two main access roads into the village, Docking Road and Burnham Road, had no 40mph sections but that only 30mph applied. The clerk would contact Highways department to discuss all of the above possibilities.

10. Scrap site planning
The situation at the scrap site on the corner of Fakenham Road and Bircham Road was unchanged but no action could be taken regarding its unsightly appearance as the site was perfectly legal. The owners had recently submitted a planning application for change of use from scrap site to residential site with two bungalows. A decision was awaited.

11. Water leakages on Bircham Road
A resident had complained about the number of leaks which occurred on this road it; was agreed that the clerk would write to Anglian Water to establish if something could be done to reduce the number of leaks and possibly renew the ageing mains pipes.

12. Updates on ongoing matters
a) Cross Lane traffic control – no developments
b) Geese on the pond – no reported problems
c) Storage shed at village hall – some rotten timbers need to be replaced. Work will be carried out by MEHM Trust.

13. Standing Orders & Financial Regulations
As a result of the recent external audit, it was established that the Parish Council needed to have a customized version of these in place. TA had amended the model documents accordingly and these would be circulated to all councillors for comments. The clerk had drawn up a “Freedom of Information” policy which would also be circulated. It was hope that all these documents could be formally adopted at the next parish council meeting in November. Councillors thanked TA for all the work done on these matters.

14. Financial Update and approval of payments
The clerk presented an up to date income and expenditure report together with copy bank statements and a budget to date report. No questions were raised. Approval was given for payment of the clerk’s salary and payment of the supplies for playground repairs.

15. Future meeting dates & times
After some discussion, it was agreed to maintain the meeting time of 7.00pm for all parish council meetings. Dates for 2014 were set as:

8th January
13th March
22nd May
10th July
11th September
13th November
The Annual Parish Meeting may also be held on 22nd May 2014, in which case the council meeting would commence at 6. 00pm to be followed by the open parish meeting at 7. 30pm. The clerk would contact the MEHM Trust regarding the availability and hire of the village hall for these dates.

No other matters were discussed and the meeting closed at 9.20pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 11th July 2013 at 7.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – E Thuburn, tel 01485 518409

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

Absent:
Mrs. P. Austin (PA)
Mr. D. Bridge (DB)

1. To consider apologies for absence
Both absentees had offered apologies for not being able to attend and these were accepted.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
JS queried why there was no “Matters Arising from previous Minutes” as an Agenda item. TA explained that under parish council rules, a general heading such as this was not good practice. Any specific item which a member wanted to raise following on from a previous meeting should be notified to the Clerk for inclusion in the Agenda. The previous 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 made.

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

5. SNAP
TA had attended a meeting on 4th July. As usual and unsurprisingly, all matters discussed related to the Hunstanton and Heacham areas where there were ongoing problems of anti-social behaviour and parking restrictions. The police reported that there had been no burglaries of domestic properties within the SNAP area during the preceding 2 months. There had been a number of thefts from beach huts and various types of outbuilding, 9 shoplifting incidents, 2 handbag thefts and the theft of a memorial bench in Thornham. During a speed monitoring session by police in Stanhoe in the month of June, 8 drivers had been caught speeding on Docking Road. All would be liable for prosecution.

6. Playground Inspection course
TA and the clerk had attended a playground inspection course run by RoSPA. This had proved very informative and included a visit to an outdoor playground to carry out a practical inspection. It was recommended that an inspection should be carried out every 1–2 weeks using a common sense approach to obvious hazards and signs of wear and tear.

An annual inspection by a fully qualified inspector with accreditation from RPII (Register of Play Inspectors International) should be done.

It was recommended that signs should be erected showing clearly the ownership of the playground, its exact location with postcode and contact details for the owners. This signage would be an Agenda item for the next meting.

It had also been clarified that perimeter fencing was not required unless the playground adjoined a potentially dangerous area such as a main road. There was some discussion in relation to Stanhoe’s playground where the perimeter fencing of the infant section had deteriorated badly. The play items for older children were not fenced and both areas were well away from roads and formed part of the main playing field. It was proposed by PR that the infant section fencing be removed completely. This was seconded by JS and unanimously agreed.

7. Possible change to meeting times and setting of future dates
Various suggestions were put forward for an earlier start to the evening meeting or a change to morning meetings. No agreement was reached and it was decided to postpone any decision until the next meeting when, hopefully, all members would be present.

8. Annual village inspection
There was discussion on whether an inspection should take place annually or not at all. It was agreed on this occasion that individuals should should take a walk round the village and note any items of concern which should then be brought to the next meeting as an Agenda item.

9. Updates on ongoing matters:
a) Cross Lane traffic control: County Council still unwilling to take any action.

b) Refurbishment of village sign and notice boards: The internal board had been replaced on the notice board beside the village hall. The woodwork on both notice boards would be re-stained in the coming days.

c) The Village Cross: The clerk had asked Mr. Shackcloth, a local builder, to inspect the flint base of the Cross and give his opinion on any repairs to be carried out. Mr. Shackcloth replied that he thought the base was sound and no repairs were needed.

d) Geese on the pond: No reported problems.

e) Visit to CITB: The clerk had received a response from the College just prior to the meeting offering two alternative dates for a visit – 1st OR 2nd August. It was agreed that 1st August suited most people with the visit starting at 12.30pm.

10. Planning decisions
The clerk reported that permission had been granted for a replacement dwelling at Mill House on Burnham Road and for the construction of an indoor swimming pool and enclosure at No. 3 Ivy Farm Barns.

11. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 12th September
The following items were put forward:

Meeting times and dates
Comments on village following individual inspections
Signs for playground
Inspection schedule and rota for playground inspections
Parish Council standing orders
12. Financial update and approval of payments
The clerk presented an up to date income and expenditure report together with copy bank statements. No questions were raised. Approval was given for payment of PAYE tax due to HMRC, the clerk’s normal salary payment and reimbursement to the clerk of the cost of new notice board material.

No further items were discussed and the meeting closed at 8. 45pm.

Following the meeting, TA congratulated MR (Chairman of the MEHM Trust) on his organization of the inter-village cricket match held on the playing field on 7th July between Docking and Stanhoe. It had been well supported and a very enjoyable day for all concerned. It was hoped that there would be more such occasions in future.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 9th May 2013 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)

1. Election of Chairman and Vice-chairman
TA, Chairman, and DB, Vice-chairman, indicated that they would be willing to serve another term. TA was proposed as chairman by PA and seconded by RB. DB was then proposed as Vice-chair by PA and seconded by RB. Both accepted their positions for a further year and were thanked by remaining councillors for agreeing to continue their work.

2. To consider apologies for absence
Apologies had been offered by MR and PR and were accepted.

3. To consider approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
These were passed and signed by the Chairman.

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

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

6. SNAP Report
Due to a clash of dates with the County Council elections, the recently scheduled meeting had been postponed with a date yet to be announced. **

7. Annual Parish Meeting
Despite being widely advertised within the village and residents being encouraged to attend, only one resident attended together with 5 parish councillors. An interesting presentation had been given by the guest speakers from the National Construction College setting out their plans for the future and a report was given by the parish council chairman on the previous year’s workings of the council. It was suggested that, in future, the Annual Parish Meeting should be held on the same evening as a normal parish council meeting and follow on from the close of parish business. It was also suggested that an item should be placed in –Saints Alive’ asking residents to propose topics for discussion at the Annual Parish Meeting and to suggest possible speakers. It was agreed that this item should be on the Agenda again for the meeting in January 2014.

8. Possible change to Parish Council meeting times
Currently, all councillors are retired from full time employment so morning meetings could be possible. This item would be on the Agenda again in July 2013 for further discussion.

9. Possible rabbit-proof fencing to children’s play area
To be discussed as part of Item 16 on the Agenda.

10. Village Cross
In spite of work being done last year, the lime mortar on the base of the Cross seemed to be cracking and flints would eventually come loose. It was agreed that the clerk would contact the builder, Mr. Shackcloth, for advice on conservation.

11. Cars parked on Docking Road
There had been concerns about some cars parked close to junctions on Docking Road. The police have confirmed that a minimum of 15 yards of clear space should be left between a junction and a parked car. There are no other parking restrictions on Docking Road. The local PCSO said he would check out the parking situation when in Stanhoe.

12. Litter Bins
The housing for one of the public litter bins by the pond has come loose from its fixings but can probably be repaired. TA and DB to investigate. Also, the clerk would contact the Borough Council as bins had not been emptied for over a week.

13. Updates on ongoing matters
a) Cross Lane traffic – no developments

b) Refurbishment of village sign and notice boards – still ongoing but hopefully will be accomplished soon.

c) Food waste bins – replacement bags were available from the Borough Council at their offices but it was agreed that the clerk would obtain a stock of these to be sold on to residents. A notice would be placed in –Saints Alive’.

d) Geese on the pond – no problems reported. Many eggs had been removed from nests and sent to a farm for incubation.

14. Planning Decisions
Permissions had been granted for alterations to –The Old Stores’ and for a variation to the conditions of a previous permission for –The Chantry’.

15. Councillors visit to the CITB
The clerk had requested available dates from the college and was awaiting a reply.

16. Insurance renewal and playground inspections
Annual parish council insurance would be renewed with Came & Co. as part of a 3 year agreement. The premium had been reduced due to a –no claims discount’ being applied. One stipulation of the insurance cover was for a weekly inspection of playground equipment. The clerk would clarify with the insurers as to the level of expertise required for this inspection. The MEHM Trust would also be asked to clarify their position on playground insurance as the playing field was leased to the Trust. There was some concern about the extent of councillors’ liability in the event of an accident and the clerk agreed to check with NALC on this matter. Some areas of the infants’ play area fencing needed to be replaced. TA and DB agreed to undertake this and to install some rabbit proof netting at the same time.

17. Year end accounts, financial update and approval of payments
The clerk circulated copies of the accounts for the year ended 31st March 2013. It was noted that some savings had been made and that the reserve fund had increased by approximately £500 and was approaching the target of a sum equivalent to one year’s precept. No queries were raised and DB proposed acceptance of the accounts which was seconded by JS and unanimously approved. The clerk also circulated a financial update for the period from 1st April 2013 to the date of the meeting. Payments were approved for expenses incurred for refreshments for the Annual Parish Meeting and for the clerk’s salary. There was some discussion on charitable donations for the financial year 2013/14 and it was agreed that this should be limited to organizations which could be of direct benefit to local residents.

18. Future meeting dates and times
It was agreed to postpone this item until the meeting in July (see also Item 8). DB and PA offered apologies for not being able to attend the July meeting because of other commitments.

19. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 11th July 2013
The following items to be included:-

Meeting dates and times
Possible litter pick and clarification on Borough Council litter collection
Usual updates on ongoing matters
No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 9.30pm.

** A meeting date of 23rd May 2013 was subsequently set for SNAP but TA was unable to attend due to a prior arrangement.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 14th March 2013 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 present.

2. To consider approval of the Minutes of the previous meeting held on 8th November 2012
Re: Item 9, JS asked for reassurance that the traffic problems associated with Cross Lane were still being discussed with the County Council. The clerk said this was the case but there was still very little hope of any action. JS also pointed out a typographical error in Item 12 (iii) which showed the precept figure of £5,000 in stead of £5,500. This error was amended and 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 made.

4. To adjourn meeting to allow public participation
One member of the public was present and raised the matter of accountability of the MEHM Trust to the parish council and if the Trust’s AGM should be open to members of the public. The chairman stated that the parish council had no special right to information of any kind from the Trust as the two organizations were entirely separate. He invited MR (chairman of the MEHM Trust) to comment. MR stated that the Trust was a registered charity and complied with the rules laid down by the Charity Commission. The Trust’s AGM was not an open public meeting and, from experience, he had found that village residents showed a minimal interest in the Trust but in future he would endeavour to keep local people better informed. A regular update in each publication of “Saints Alive” could be possible. The member of public thanked MR for his input.

5. SNAP
TA had attended the last meeting on 7th March but no Minutes were yet available. As usual, most of the discussion centred on Hunstanton and Heacham area with ongoing problems of some anti-social behaviour. Some youths had been arrested and had been given curfew restrictions. Crime statistics for the whole area covered by SNAP were:3 house burglaries, 9 shed and outhouse burglaries, 3 thefts from locked cars, 14 assaults (mostly domestic) and 5 arrests in connection with illegal drugs. Clarification has been given on the parking rules associated with double yellow lines. In general, these mean –no parking at any time’, however this is overridden by any notice displayed in the area of double yellow lines which may limit the restriction to certain times or dates. It was also clarified that any cars with a –For Sale’ notice which had been left parked on verges should be reported to the Highways Dept. on 0300 1235000 and not the police. Highways would contact the registered owner and ask for the car to be removed. If the owner did not comply, Highways would remove the car.

6. Speed Watch statistics
TA reported the Stanhoe statistics for previous six months. 8 speed watch sessions had taken place, 34 vehicles were reported for speeding, of which, 29 had received letters from the police. Three vehicles could not be traced and one was a leasehold vehicle for which the driver could not be identified. SAM speed monitors are in place for two weeks every six weeks approximately.

7. Wind Farms update
No further developments since the end of the appeal hearing when the objections were not upheld. TA stressed that the parish council should be vigilant once construction starts to ensure that everything is done according to the conditions of the planning permission. No information is yet available regarding the community fund due to the villages affected by the turbines.

8. Reading Room refurbishment
Following on from comments in Item 4 of the Minutes, MR was asked to report on any progress made towards the refurbishment of the Reading Room by the MEHM Trust. Despite great efforts by the Trustees, an application for Lottery funding had been rejected. Bank loans had been considered but these were not really a viable option. Trustees were still working towards a complete refurbishment, including an efficient heating system. JS queried the use of funds donated by the now defunct Social Club. MR assured him that these funds were in the Trust’s bank account but were insufficient in themselves to finance all that needed to be done.

9. Condition of the shed adjacent to the Reading Room
The shed was originally purchased by a grant given to the then existing village youth club but now belongs to the village in general. It is in need of repairs which MR said the MEHM Trust could probably undertake but perhaps with help from the parish council. MR would put this matter on the Agenda for the next MEHM Trust meeting.

10. Refurbishment of village sign and notice boards
This work was all in hand and would proceed as soon as weather improved.

11. Dogs on the playing field
There continued to be dog fouling on the playing field with some dog owners not picking up dog mess. Another notice would be put in “Saints Alive” and TA would make a comment in his annual report to the village at the annual parish meeting in April. It should be noted by local residents that attempts are being made to create a cricket pitch on the playing field in order to hold matches with local clubs, therefore, dog fouling would be a health risk to players.

12. Annual Parish Meeting
This is arranged for the evening of 11th April 2013. PR will organise wine and glasses although neither she nor MR will be able to attend. JS suggested that a selection of bread and cheese would the easiest type of catering to offer. PA would organize the food and JS offered to help. The clerk apologised since she too would be unable to attend due to conflicting holiday dates.

13. Update on ongoing matters
a) Cross Lane traffic – no developments (see also Item 4)

b) Geese on the village pond – no reported problems

c) Weed problems – DB is greatly concerned about the problem of ragwort in particular. According to DEFRA, ragwort is not a notifiable weed but DB would like to know the opinion of the CPRE. Clerk agreed to write to CPRE for their viewpoint. The patch of ground, between the rear of the village hall and the playing field, where snowdrops are growing needs to be cleared of weeds. Clerk would organize this.

14. Financial update and approval of payments
The clerk circulated an up to date income and expenditure statement with copy bank statements. No questions were raised. Approval was given for payment of clerk’s salary.

15. To receive items for the next Agenda – meeting of 9th May 2013
Consideration of change to meeting times
Possible rabbit proof fencing of children’s play area
Village Cross
Cars parked outside Baker’s Cottage on Docking Road
Councillors’ visit to the CITB
No other matters were raised and the meeting closed at 8.40pm.