Stanhoe Parish Council

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 11th March 2021 at 6.00pm
via Zoom
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Mr W Leighton Clerk

Apologies: None

In attendance: None

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors were present on the call.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 14th January 2021: No queries were raised and it was agreed the minutes would be signed by the Chairman when possible.

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

4. Review of Parish Council Policy Documents: The Chairman advised that the review was still ongoing, but progress was being made. The Chairman had reviewed neighbouring Parish Council policies which varied in consistency and the number of policies in place – ranging from 8 to 23. To assist, MW agreed to review the Playground Policy and the Clerk would review the Financial Regulations and, in conjunction with the Chairman, the Community Emergency Policy. A further update would be provided at the next Parish Council meeting.

5. Children’s Play Area Annual Inspection: Following the retirement of the regular Playground Inspector, MW had contacted another approved Inspector. For an inspection ‘within 2 weeks’ costs would be £250 + VAT, ‘within 8 to 12 weeks’ costs would be £110 + VAT. MW had opted for the 8 to 12 week window and the inspection would take place sometime in May 2021.

6. Criminal Behaviour in the Village: The Chairman had been made aware that police action had been taken in response to COVID related vandalism at a house near the pond where a family have been renting for 3 years and living for the past year. Should anyone have any information relating to this then they should contact the police on 101.

7. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 had been working without issue. The fastest recorded speeds within the 30mph limit for January to mid-March 2021 had been:

Date Time Speed Sign Position
11th January 19:20 55mph Longwall Barn facing Bircham
1st March 16:50 50mph Longwall Barn facing the Pond
During January 10,672 vehicles passed the speed sign, in February the figure was 5,641 vehicles.

8. Rangers Visit April 2021: The Rangers had been requested to clear the storm drains in Cross Lane, clean all street furniture and the village gates and sweep the footpath from the junction by the pond to the Duck Inn. In addition, the Clerk would notify the Highways Department of a fallen road sign at the Bircham crossroads junction and a weak road sign outside Leo on Docking Road.

9. Village Spring Clean: The Great British Spring Clean is scheduled to take place between 28th May 2021 and 13th June 2021. Councillors agreed that the ‘Stanhoe litter pick’ would take place on Saturday 12th June 2021 with participants meeting at the Reading Room on Cross Lane at 10.30am. Bags would be provided and MW would investigate the cost of litter picker tools. In an effort to further reduce litter in the village, the Clerk would determine the feasibility and costs of placing additional litter bins at either end of Church Lane.

10. Biomass Traffic: Primarily MW, but also the Chairman, had attended various Zoom meetings, along with neighbouring Parish Council representatives, and representatives from Egmere Energy and Future Biogas Limited. In the main, discussions centred on the speed of the tractor and trailer units passing through villages although other topics were discussed. Positives from the meeting were:

15mph speed limits will be stipulated, and monitored, for harvest traffic through villages.

Trailers will display identification numbers and the EEL logo so any misbehaviour can be reported and acted upon.

Further meetings would be scheduled.

11. Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane: It was understood that a further hearing had taken place on or around 9/10 March, the outcome of which was awaited.

12. Planning Applications and Information: The following planning applications had been received or decided upon since the last meeting:

Application Number Proposal Decision
20/01908/F
Erection of detached oak framed garage

The Old Norfolk Hero

Bircham Road

Application permitted
26th January 2021
20/01921/F
Extension and alteration

The Old Stores

Docking Road

Application permitted
11th February 2021
21/00298/F
Single storey extensions to side and front of existing bungalow

Chapel Field Cottage
Cross Lane

No objection from Parish Council

13. Financial Report and approval of payments: Up to date income & expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements had been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100816 BCKLWN Dog Bin Emptying 188.45
100817 D. Scales Village Maintenance 160.00
100818 W. Leighton Salary January & February 2021 325.68
100819 HMRC PAYE January & February 2021 81.40
14. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

Dog Waste: JL reported that she had noticed an increase in dog waste being left on pavements and on the playing field. This was particularly disappointing as there were no holiday makers in the village, only permanent residents or those who had elected to reside full time in second homes during the pandemic. A reminder to ‘clear-up’ would be placed in Saints Alive.

Stanhoe Open Gardens 2021: The 17th July was the date scheduled for Stanhoe Open Gardens 2021.

15. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 13th May 2021:

SAM 2 – Update
Review of Parish Council Policy Documents
Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.30pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 14th January 2021 at 6.00pm
via Zoom
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Mr W Leighton (Clerk)

Apologies:

Nil

In attendance:

Nil

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors were present on the call.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 14th November 2020: No queries were raised and it was agreed the minutes would be signed by the Chairman when possible.

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

4. Docking Recycling Centre: DL had been made aware that there was a discussion on the ‘Nextdoor’ website relating to the possible reduction of operating hours/closure of the Docking Recycling Centre. This was following a review that had taken place between October and December 2020. DL had contacted Andrew Jamieson, Norfolk County Councillor and Cabinet Member for Finance, to express concern on behalf of Stanhoe Parish Council and the residents of Stanhoe. Andrew Jamieson confirmed that consideration was being given to reducing the operating hours by 1 per day but there were no plans for closure. However, after due consideration, Andrew Jamieson reported back to DL that the proposal to reduce the operating hours had been scrapped. Councillors agreed this was excellent news; the Docking Recycling Centre is a very well used and valuable asset providing an excellent service to Stanhoe and other surrounding villages.

5. Review of Parish Council Policy Documents: The Chairman advised that the review was still ongoing. A further update would be provided at the next Parish Council meeting.

6. Children’s Play Area Fencing – Update: The installation of the fencing around the children’s play area was now complete and all bills had been settled. Total costs involved were £1065.34 for materials and £750 for labour, £1815.34 including VAT of £177.56.

The sharing of costs with the MEHM Trust had been agreed as follows:

Total costs of £1815.34 ÷ 2 = £907.67 – This figure is in line with the MEHM Trust’s agreement to fund 50% of all material and labour costs, up to a maximum of £1000, plus 50% of the cost of all fixtures and fittings.

£907.67 – £750 for labour paid by the MEHM Trust = £157.67 due to the Parish Council from the MEHM Trust.

This £157.67 can be offset by 50% of the VAT (£88.78), as the Parish Council will in due course claim back the VAT.

The net figure due to the Parish Council from the MEHM Trust would therefore be £68.89 – this has subsequently been received.

For completion, BG agreed to fix a ‘Please Shut the Gate’ sign to the entrance. MW queried the widening of the entrance to the playing field; DL confirmed that this had been completed in accordance with the initial plans to remove hedging back to the gatepost, previously hidden.

Finally, all Councillors expressed their thanks for the phenomenal personal contribution that BG had made to the project which had undoubtedly saved both the Parish Council and the MEHM Trust further expense.

7. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 had been working without issue. The fastest recorded speeds within the 30mph limit for November and December 2020 had been:

Date Time Speed Sign Position
24th November 21:55 65mph Leo facing Burnham Market
17th December 04:25 65mph Grange facing Docking
During November 9,247 vehicles passed the speed sign, in December the figure was 12,232 vehicles; a considerable reduction in vehicles travelling through the village.

8. Rangers Visit: The Clerk informed Councillors that the Rangers were scheduled to visit the village sometime during January. The Rangers had been requested to clear the storm drains in Cross Lane, clean all street furniture and the village gates, sweep the footpath from the junction by the pond to the Duck Inn and clear the drainage pipe that runs into the pond at the Bircham Road/Burnham Road junction.

9. Village Spring Clean: The Great British Spring Clean is scheduled to take place between 28th May 2021 and 13th June 2021. Councillors agreed to defer the setting of a date for the ‘Stanhoe litter pick’ until the next meeting when more may be known on the relaxing of current Government restrictions. BG suggested, and Councillors agreed, that the ‘pick’ should be extended just beyond the village boundaries as litter was inclined to be dropped before those responsible entered the village.

10. Biomass Traffic: The Chairman had received an email from a resident expressing concern at the amount of heavy traffic travelling through the village during the summer to the Anaerobic Digestion Plant at Egmere. The email also included a document compiled by ‘local residents’ and included the following disclaimer:

“It is not an “official” document. It has not been checked with the plant, its owner, its operator or with the responsible planning authority. It is quite possible, therefore, that it contains errors.”

Some Councillors felt the document should be further distributed, but with uncertainty surrounding the validity of some of the information, and without permission of the unknown ‘author’, this was decided against. Nevertheless, Councillors did not underestimate the significant impact that the heavy traffic had upon Stanhoe residents and other surrounding village’s residents. The Chairman agreed therefore, to draft an email to other local Parish Councils offering to join any consolidated effort there may be to highlight the issues to Future Biogas, who manage the plant at Egmere. It was also felt that copying the email to local MP’s, the Police and the Stanhoe Speedwatch Coordinator could add further weight. The Chairman would send his draft to Councillors for comment, prior to sending on.

MW thought he may know the author of the document, so agreed to try and confirm this.

11. Planning Applications and Information: The following planning applications had been received or decided upon since the last meeting:

Application Number Proposal Decision
20/01714/F First floor side extension and front porch.

Ivy Cottage
Docking Road
No objection from the Parish Council

Application permitted by BCKLWN on 22nd December 2020

20/01908/F
Erection of detached oak framed garage

The Old Norfolk Hero
Bircham Road

No objection from the Parish Council
20/01921/F
Extension and alteration

The Old Stores
Docking Road

The Parish Council objected to the use of cladding and raised other comments including, but not limited to, parking and the extent of the development.

This was a majority decision by the Parish Council

20/02014/LDP
Lawful Development Certificate – proposed pool building and swimming pool

Old Rectory
Church Lane

Parish Council not invited to comment at this stage
The Parish Council had been informed by the Environment and Planning Directorate, BCKLWN that the address formerly known as Beulah Cottage, Bircham Road would now be known as Beulah House.

A resident had notified the Chairman of an open garage/cart shed that had been erected in the vicinity of The Green and had queried whether planning permission for such a structure was required. A number of Councillors had looked at the structure and did not feel that planning permission was required. The Chairman advised the resident accordingly and suggested that contact should be made with the planning department at the BCKLWN if the answer was felt to be unsatisfactory.

14. Financial Report and approval of payments: Up to date income & expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements had been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. A finalised budget for 2021/22, encompassing some minor line entry changes, had also been circulated. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100812 D. Lord Conference Call Costs – November 2020 55.42
100813 W. Leighton Salary November & December 2020 325.68
100814 HMRC PAYE November & December 2020 81.40
15. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

Illicit Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane: DL advised Council that the hearing scheduled for 16th December 2020 has been adjourned as the BCKLWN believed the mobile homes/caravans had been removed from the site. When the BCKLWN were informed that the mobile homes/caravans were still on site a further hearing was scheduled for 13th January 2021 – this was subsequently adjourned, reason unknown.

A further hearing had been scheduled for mid-February 2021.

16. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 11th March 2021:

SAM 2 – Update
Review of Parish Council Policy Documents
Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane
Village Spring Clean
Biomass Traffic

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.05pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 12th November 2020 at 6.00pm
via BT Conference Call
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Apologies:

None

In attendance:

None

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors were present on the call.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 17th September 2020: Prior to signing the minutes of the last meeting, the Chairman requested that an amendment to be at Item 6 to reflect that the MEHM Trust had agreed to pay 50% of the cost of all fixtures and fittings, not all the cost. The Clerk would make this amendment and the minutes would then be signed by the Chairman when possible.

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

4. Norfolk Association of Local Council Changes: Norfolk Association of Local Councils (Norfolk ALC) is changing in order to enable member councils to be more involved and improve its governance. Norfolk ALC has been an unincorporated organisation to date. This is not now best practice. So, the executive have looked at a number of different models and concluded that a co-operative model best meets their needs. Norfolk ALC has therefore now registered with the Financial Conduct Authority as a Cooperative Society, which provides services to its members. As part of the change a representative from the Parish Council could be nominated with a view to attending Norfolk ALC meetings and reporting back. At this stage the Parish Council did not wish to nominate a representative so requested the Clerk notify the County Officer accordingly.

5. Review of Parish Council Policy Documents: The Chairman advised Council that this was a more detailed task than originally anticipated and consequently was still ongoing. The Chairman hoped to complete the review in time for the next Parish Council meeting.

6. Children’s Play Area Fencing – Update: The timber to construct the fencing had arrived on 12th November. BG would now prepare the timber ready for installation. It was anticipated that installation would start on or around 23rd November and would take approximately 1 week to complete. RBR wished to express her thanks to BG for the considerable amount of personal time he had spent in researching, designing, ordering and preparing the fence; this was echoed by all Councillors present.

7. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 had been working without issue. The fastest recorded speeds within the 30mph limit for September and October 2020 had been:

Date Time Speed Sign Position
21st September 23:35 75mph Pond facing Burnham Market
9th October 17:10 55mph Pond facing Docking
During September 34,305 vehicles passed the speed sign, in October the figure was 26,707 vehicles.

DL would discuss the results downloaded from SAM 2 with the Speedwatch Coordinator.

8. Pond Borehole – Update: BG had confirmed with an independent contractor that the quotes received for the installation of a pond borehole were fair. Nevertheless, Councillors were in agreement that this still made the project prohibitive but it would remain a long term objective.

9. Illicit Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane: DL advised Council that yet another adjournment had been requested with the next date being set for 16th December 2020.

10. Parish Council Budget Setting 2021/2022: Councillors were in unanimous agreement that there should be no increase to the precept request for FY 2021/22; it would remain at £7K. There would be some minor adjustments to the individual line entries in the budget and these would be ratified at the January 2021 meeting.

11. Parish Council Meeting Dates 2021: Councillors agreed the following provisional dates for 2021 Parish Council meetings:

14th January
11th March
13th May (Annual Parish meeting date TBC)
15th July
9th September
11th November

12. Constructionarium: MW visited the Constructionarium site at the CITB on 22nd October 2020. Constructionarium is an integral part, albeit independent of the CITB. Students from the construction industry attend week long courses, where they are tasked with completing small, scaled down civil engineering projects, of already completed public projects. They have to design, cost, order materials and construct all within 7 days. The Site Manager was able to offer the Parish Council the following:

a) the actual completed structure or

b) the aggregate from the broken down projects

MW explained to Council that the projects, even scaled down, are too large and should the Parish Council take advantage of the offer, the Parish Council would be responsible for removing the structure/aggregate from the site. Councillors were in agreement with MW, that whilst this was a very generous offer from the Site Manager they did not feel the structures could be of benefit to the Parish Council. MW would contact the Site Manager, thank him for the offer and advise him of the Council’s decision.

13. Planning Applications and Information: The following planning application had been received or decided upon since the last meeting:

Application Number Proposal Decision
20/01520/F
Variation of condition 2 of planning permission 20/00603/F to increase the length of the dwelling by 1m

Station Farm Cottage
Station Road

No objection from the Parish Council
14. Financial Report and approval of payments: Up to date income & expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements had been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100808 W. Leighton Salary September & October 2020 345.28
100809 HMRC PAYE September & October 2020 86.20
100810 D. Lord Conference Call Costs – September 2020 41.40
15. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

Alive West Norfolk

Alive West Norfolk amalgamates the activities of the gym facilities and swimming pool in Kings Lynn, the pool in Hunstanton, and activities in Downham Market. It often advertises its activities, although they are often conducted some distance from Stanhoe. However, Alive West Norfolk, as part of a survey, had asked what activities (aimed at over 60’s) may be of interest to residents. RBR suggested bowls or seated yoga, which could be undertaken in the Reading Room, may be of interest. Councillors felt that it may be more appropriate for the MEHM Trust, as owners of the Reading Room, to take this subject forward. RBR would pass details to the Chair of the MEHM Trust.

Biomass Traffic

Over the weekend of 10/11 October 2020, a number of residents had noted an excessive number of large tractor/trailer units travelling at speed along Bircham Road, Docking Road and Burnham Road. Residents had contacted the Holkham Estate however, the Holkham Estate confirmed that it is not responsible for the Anaerobic Digestion Plant at Egmere – it is run by Future Biogas. Future Biogas had received a number of complaints so met with the tractor drivers involved and reminded them of their responsibilities in terms of speed, road courtesy and the negative impact their behaviour is having on local communities and Future Biogas. It was noted that speeds reduced over the coming week.

16. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 14th January 2021:

SAM 2 – Update
Review of Parish Council Policy Documents
Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane
Children’s Play Area

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.30pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 17th September 2020 at 6.00pm
via BT Conference Call
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Apologies: None

In attendance: None

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors were present on the call.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 9th July 2020: No queries were raised and it was agreed the minutes would be signed by the Chairman when possible.

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

4. Better Broadband for Norfolk (BBfN) – Update: The issue affecting some residents on Church Lane, who were unable to upgrade to FTTP, had now been resolved.

5. Review of Parish Council Policy Documents: The Chairman had yet to complete the review of the Parish Council policy documents. The Chairman hoped to complete this, and pass to Councillors for comment, prior to the next Parish Council meeting.

6. Children’s Play Area Fencing – Update: An on-site meeting between members of the Parish Council and the MEHM Trust had taken place on 12th August. Whilst some minor adjustments were made to the initial proposal put forward by the MEHM Trust, all Councillors agreed unanimously to assist with the funding for a picket style fence around the children’s play area. Anticipated costs at this stage were expected to be £833.33 + VAT for materials and £750 for labour to install the fence. BG had kindly offered to prepare and shape the pickets at no cost, for which the Parish Council were extremely grateful. The MEHM Trust had agreed to fund 50% of all material and labour costs, up to a maximum of £1000 plus 50% of the cost of all fixtures and fittings – hasps, bolts, locks etc. The MEHM Trust would also widen the entrance to the playing field by cutting back some of the hedge adjacent to the chained entrance.

The Parish Council highlighted the positives from having a fence around the children’s play area; the gate could be locked when necessary to prevent general access (if the equipment was broken or the Government imposed closure) and dogs would be prevented from wandering in the area and depositing dog waste.

The Council felt that in the interests of costs and risk management, one gate would suffice for the playground enclosure.

7. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 had been working without issue. . The fastest recorded speeds within the 30mph limit for July and August 2020 had been:

Date Time Speed Sign Position
21st July 21:05 65mph Leo facing Burnham Market
5th August 00:55 55mph Long Wall Barn facing Bircham
During July 37,284 vehicles passed the speed sign, in August the figure was 41,704 vehicles.

8. Pond Update: DL and BG had further investigated the feasibility of the installation of a bore hole to enable the pond water level to be replenished during periods of drought or water loss. Unfortunately, at this stage, confirmed costs of £12K to £12.5K, made the project prohibitive. Nevertheless, this would remain a long term objective of the Parish Council and would be kept under review in the future as it was felt it was in the long term interests of the village if an affordable solution could be found. The Chairman had received one written objection to the project, which had previously been shared with Councillors. The Chairman would now respond to the objection and explain the Parish Council’s position.

9. Illicit Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane: DL advised Council that no further progress had been made as the Court hearing scheduled for 1st September 2020 had been further deferred.

10. Planning Applications and Information: Whilst no planning applications had been received, the Council had been notified that the property to replace Station Farm Cottage on Station Road would be known as ‘Red House’.

11. Financial Report and approval of payments: The Chairman advised Council that on 24th August 2020, the National Joint Council for Local Government Services (NJC) announced that an agreement was reached between the National Employers and the NJC Trade Union Side on the new pay scales for 2020-21 to be implemented from 1 April 2020. The Chairman proposed that Council support the recommendation which would result in a £0.25 (approx.) hourly increase in the Clerk’s salary backdated to 1st April 2020. Councillors agreed to the proposal unanimously.

Up to date income & expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements had been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100805 W. Leighton Salary July & August 2020 317.72
100806 W. Leighton Expenses July & August 2020 – Printer Ink 72.95
100807 HMRC PAYE July & August 2020 79.60
12. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

Constructionarium

An email had been received from Constuctionarium Limited, a not for profit organisation based within the grounds of CITB’s campus at Bircham Newton. They provide experiential learning for students studying built environment courses and employees from across the construction sector to put theory into practice. In six days they build replicas of iconic projects such as The Gherkin, Millau Viaduct, Brewery Wharf to name but a few. Whilst they are scaled replicas they are still of significant size.

Each week, after the event, they usually dispose of the concrete decks and slabs but had enquired whether the Parish Council might be able to make use of some of the items.

MW agreed to contact the company to determine exactly what was available and whether it would be of any use to the Parish Council, or possibly the MEHM Trust.

13. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 12th November 2020:

Pond Bore Hole
SAM 2 – Update
Review of Parish Council Policy Documents
Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane
Children’s Play Area
Constuctionarium

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.00pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 9th July 2020 at 6.00pm
via BT Conference Call
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Apologies: None

In attendance: None

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors were present on the call.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 21st May 2020: No queries were raised and it was agreed the minutes would be signed by the Chairman when possible.

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

4. MEHM Annual Contribution: A. £410 contribution to the MEHM Trust (Cheque Number 100797) had been unanimously agreed by Councillors, by email, since the last meeting. This was to cover the use of the village hall for the preceding 3 financial years at £100 per year and £110 for the current financial year.

5. Better Broadband for Norfolk (BBfN) Update: Solution 2 of the Fibre to the Property (FTTP) upgrade (Bircham Road in the main) was now complete. However, some residents on Church Lane had reported that they were still not able to upgrade to FTTP. The Clerk would contact the Programme Director for BBfN to request an update on the affected properties on Church Lane.

6. Review of Parish Council Policy Documents: The Chairman had looked at the Parish Council policy documents currently in place and had noted a few minor amendments were required. The Chairman would update the documents and pass to Councillors, prior to the next Parish Council meeting, for comment.

7. Review of the Proposal to Install a Picnic Area near the Playing Equipment, to be Delineated by a Low Spaced Picket Fence: The MEHM Trust had asked the Parish Council whether it would consider funding the installation of a picket fence around the children’s play equipment. An initial estimate of costs indicated that the total cost would be in the region of £2000. Whilst Councillors were keen to support the MEMH Trust a couple of questions were posed:

Would the MEHM Trust make a contribution to the overall cost?

Could the Jack’s Lane Wind Farm Fund Committee be approached, by the MEHM Trust as the landowner, to see if a grant would be available?

In addition, it was noted that a picket fence had previously been in place but had been removed as it had not stood the test of time.

On the theme of the children’s play equipment MW advised Councillors that he had now replaced the defective buffalo board.

Finally, whilst the Government had granted permission, from 4th July 2020, for outdoor play areas to re-open, the BCKLWN were still awaiting clarification on the cleaning regime required for unmanned sites. On this basis, the Parish Council agreed that the children’s play area should, until clarification had been sought, remain closed.

8. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 had been returned to Westcotec for repair and was now back in operation. The issue had been a faulty radar at a cost of £730 to replace, which, after insistence by the Chairman, was covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty had now expired. The SAM 2 had not been particularly reliable since initial installation and had been returned to Westcotec for repair on a number of occasions. With this in mind, and looking to the future, Councillors requested that the Clerk contact the Highways Engineer to ascertain whether Norfolk County Council had another preferred supplier for speed display and monitoring signs.

9. Public Rights of Way: MW advised Councillors that Public Rights of Way in the village, including footpaths and bridleways, were limited. Apart from one down Barwick Road and one down Station Road there were no other ‘official’ rights of way. It was imperative therefore that signage for these routes remained in place, and in good order, to prevent residents and visitors straying onto private land.

10. Parish Partnership Scheme 2021/22: Applications under the Parish Partnership Scheme for FY2021/22 had to be submitted by 4th December 2020. Whilst no requirement for funding immediately sprung to mind, Councillors would consider this during the coming months.

11. Pond Update: DL and BG had undertaken a feasibility study with a view to the installation of a bore hole to enable the pond water level to be replenished during periods of drought or water loss. Early indications were that to drill a bore hole to the required level in the water table (35m – 45m deep) and install an electric pump to draw the water when required would cost in the region of £7.5K to £12.5K, based on estimates received to date. The Jack’s Lane Wind Farm Fund Committee could be approached with a view to an application being submitted for a grant of £5K. Whilst still in the early stages, the concept was fully supported by all Councillors. In addition, Councillors felt that removing the silt in the pond may also be beneficial. DL and BG would gather further information in readiness for the next meeting.

12. Illicit Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane: DL reported that the mobile homes in the paddock area of Parsons Lane were the subject of an ongoing Court case. Whilst a Court hearing had been set for 30th June 2020 this had been deferred until 1st September 2020 for a hearing court. It was understood that the situation had been going on for approximately 2 ½ years and was a concern for the residents of the village, particularly those along Parsons Lane.

13. Planning Applications and Information: Whilst no applications had been received there were a number of ‘planning related’ matters.

Sloe House was the name of the new property on Church Lane

A decision on the replacement dwelling for Station Farm Cottage was still awaited.

A letter had been received from Councillor Jim Moriarty, Borough Councillor for Castle Acre Ward and Vice-Chair of the Corporate Performance Panel regarding the consultation of Parish Councils on planning applications. The issue had previously been tabled in 2018 and was now due for further review. Councillor Moriarty requested a current update on the Parish Council’s position. The Chairman had responded reiterating that Stanhoe Parish Council still felt that planning represents one of the most important parts of the deliberations of the Council and that the removal or ignoring of our concerns/input seriously puts in question the value of our efforts in a crucial area of local importance

14. End of Year Accounts, Financial Report and approval of payments: The End of Year Accounts had now been inspected by the Internal Auditor, who raised no observations. Council agreed unanimously that the Chairman and Clerk should now sign the Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2019/20 and forward the Exemption Certificate to the External Auditor.

Up to date income & expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements had also been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

The Chairman wished Councillors to note that the net cost of the BT Conference Call for the last meeting was likely to be in the region of £40 once a credit had been applied to an originally overcharged bill.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100798 R. Canwell Internal Audit 35.00
100799 J. Faulks Cemetery Maintenance 150.00
100800 Playscape Play Equipment Replacement Board 102.00
100801 ICO Annual Fee 40.00
100802 W. Leighton Salary May & June 2020 317.92
100803 HMRC PAYE May & June 2020 79.40
15. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

Great British Spring Clean

The Great British Spring Clean had been rescheduled to take place from 11-27 September. A provisional date of 19th September was set for Stanhoe Parish Council to take part.

16. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 17th September 2020:

Pond Bore Hole
SAM 2 – Update
BBfN – Update
Review of Parish Council Policy Documents
Mobile Homes in the Paddock, Parsons Lane
Children’s Play Area

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.30pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 21st May 2020 at 6.00pm
held via BT Conference Call
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Apologies: None

In attendance: None

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors were present on the call.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 12th March 2020: No queries were raised and it was agreed the minutes would be signed by the Chairman when possible.

3. To record declarations of interest in any item to be discussed: RB made a declaration of interest in one element of Item 13 and would not take part in the discussion surrounding Station Farm Cottage.

4. Vulnerable Adults Policy: A discussion took place, brought about by COVID 19, as to whether it was necessary to have a Vulnerable Adults Policy. It was agreed by Council that this was not necessary as Stanhoe was a small village with limited numbers of permanent residents. In addition, a volunteer group had been assembled by the Council which had been able to assist those deemed to be vulnerable during COVID 19 with their general shopping and collection of prescriptions etc.

5. Better Broadband for Norfolk Update: The programme for Solution 2 was likely to be slightly delayed due to the current COVID 19 restrictions.

6. Review of Parish Council Policy Documents: Whilst this item would be carried forward to the next meeting, the Chairman agreed in the interim to look at all the Parish Council policy documents currently in place.

7. Request for Financial Support – All Saints Church: A request had been received from the All Saints Church requesting financial support from the Parish Council. Councillors were sympathetic to the financial difficulties the Church face, compounded by COVID 19 with churches closed and no collections. Whilst Parish Councils are unable to make direct transfer of funds to the Church, Councillors agreed unanimously to cover Contractor costs of £300 for the upkeep of the graveyards and their surrounds. This would be paid direct to the Contractor on receipt of an invoice or invoices up to a total value of £300.

8. SAM 2 Update: Unfortunately the SAM 2 was not working. The SAM 2 would be returned to Westcotec for repair once they were back in operation.

9. Public Rights of Way: This was still work in progress.

10. Children’s Play Equipment – Update: The buffalo board for the Explorer Playscape was still awaited. In preparation for the play equipment to be able to reopen, BG and DL had jet washed all the equipment.

11. Pond Update: BG and DL had undertaken 3 sessions clearing and tidying around the pond. RBR wished to record her thanks to BG and DL in making the area around the pond much more accessible and welcoming to village residents and visitors.

12. Arrangements for Annual Parish Meeting: The Annual Parish meeting would be placed on hold pending further government advice.

13. Planning Applications and Information: The following planning applications had been received or decided upon since the last meeting:

Application Number Proposal Decision
20/00022/TPO Fell 3 dead trees. Reduce 1 tree by 3m
All Saints Church TPO work approved by BCKLWN – 25th March 2020
20/00603/F Construction of a dwelling house with associated landscaping and a detached garage and retention of a garden shed.
Station Farm Cottage
Station Road A response from the Parish Council had been sent to the BCKLWN on 14 May 2020. The Parish Council neither supported or objected to the application but asked for a number of points to be taken into account prior to a final decision being made
14. End of Year Accounts, Financial Report and approval of payments: Year End accounts as at 31st March 2020 had previously been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. The accounts had yet to be inspected by the Internal Auditor. Council agreed unanimously with the End of Year Accounts. However, the Chairman would not be able to sign the Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2019/20 until the accounts had been inspected.

Up to date income & expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements had also been emailed to Councillors by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100791 NALC Subs 2020/21 93.15
100792 J. Faulks Cemetery Maintenance 150.00
100793 Came & Co Annual Insurance Premium 426.83
100794 D. Lord Laptop Repair 65.00
100795 W. Leighton Salary Mar & Apr 20 317.92
100796 HMRC PAYE Mar & Apr 20 79.40
15. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

MEHM Donation

The Chairman felt that a donation should be made to the MEHM trust to cover hire of the Reading Room for Parish Council meetings. The Chairman requested that the Clerk confirm when the last donation to the MEHM Trust was made. Following that confirmation, the Chairman would email Councillors, for discussion, a suggested donation.

Fly Tipping

There had been a reported incident of fly tipping of garden waste on private land in Cross Lane. The Chairman had discussed this with those involved and the garden waste had now been removed.

16. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 9th July 2020:

Public Rights of Way
Review of Parish Council Policy Documents
Review of the proposal to install a picnic area near the playing equipment, to be delineated by a low spaced picket fence.

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.00pm.

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 12th March 2020 at 6.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)

Apologies:

Mr B. Gorton (BG)

In attendance:

1 parishioner attended at 18.50 as the calendar on the Stanhoe website indicated that the meeting started at 19.00. The Clerk has corrected the start time for all future meetings.

1. To consider apologies for absence: BG had given his apologies.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 9th January 2020: No queries were raised and the minutes were passed and signed by the Chairman.

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

4. To adjourn the meeting to allow for public participation: 1 member of the public attended, please see ‘In attendance’ above. Due to the confusion, the Chairman gave the parishioner the opportunity to raise any points, but other than the incorrect start time of the meeting being on the Stanhoe website calendar, the parishioner had nothing further to raise.

5. Arrangements for Annual Parish Meeting: The Annual Parish Meeting is scheduled to take place on 21st May 2020 at 1900 hrs. MW suggested that James Wild MP, the Conservative MP for North West Norfolk, could be invited to attend. DL would contact James Wild MP regarding this.

6. Better Broadband for Norfolk Update: Solution 2 of the programme, primarily Bircham Road, was still on track to be completed by the end of March.

7. Palisade Fencing Replacement: Work on replacing the palisade fencing had commenced; work was expected to last for 2/3 weeks. The Council was pleased that Highways had been able to agree to wood slats rather than the originally proposed concrete panels.

8. Village Directory: The MEHM Trust and the All Saints Church had contacted the Chairman to ask if a ‘Village Directory’ to include details of all residents (name/address/email/telephone number etc) could be compiled by the Parish Council. All Councillors expressed concern regarding this both in terms of Data Protection (GDPR) and the potential for improper use of the information by some. The Chairman would advise the MEHM Trust and the All Saints Church accordingly.

9. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 continued to operate without issue. The fastest recorded speeds within the 30mph limit for January and February 2020 had been:

Date Time Speed Sign Position
30th January 17:40 60 mph Long Wall Barn facing the Pond
6th February 10:15 85 mph Long Wall Barn facing Bircham
During January over 17,400 vehicles passed the speed sign, in February the figure was 28,000 vehicles.

10. Public Rights of Way: MW had yet to complete a survey to ascertain all Public Rights of Way in the village. MW would report back at the next meeting.

11. Children’s Play Equipment – Update: All minor issues raised during the annual inspection of the Children’s Play Equipment had been rectified. MW requested approval for the purchase of a new buffalo board for the Explorer Playscape at a cost of £85 plus VAT. Councillors agreed unanimously to the purchase.

12. Planning Applications and Information: No planning applications had been received or decided upon since the last meeting.

13. Financial Report and Approval of Payments: Up to date income and expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements were circulated by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100785 BCKLWN Dog Bin Emptying 152.73
100786 NPFA Annual Subscription 20.00
100787 D. Scales Village Maintenance 160.00
100788 W. Leighton Salary Jan & Feb 20 317.92
100789 W. Leighton Expenses Jan & Feb 20 15.50
100790 HMRC PAYE Jan & Feb 20 79.40
The Clerk requested up to £150 for the purchase of a 4 drawer filing cabinet to store historic papers and accounts files. In addition, the Clerk requested that the cabinet be placed in an appropriate area in the Reading Room. The Chairman offered to donate a 4 drawer filing cabinet to the Council and agreed to contact the Chair of the MEHM Trust regarding placement in the Reading Room.

14. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published:

Unwelcome Intrusion

The Council was briefed about the unwelcome intrusion of mobile homes in the Paddock north of No 1 Parsons Lane in April 2018. This was immediately reported to BCKLWN Planning Enforcement. Apparently a similar transgression was subject to a Court eviction order in 2005/6.

The occupation has continued. The Council noted the concerns expressed.

Play Area Fencing

The Chairman was approached by the Chairman of the MEHM Trust (who own the Village Hall and playing fields amongst other items) to enquire whether the Council was able to undertake the installation of low fencing around the Play Equipment area (to provide a dog barrier and picnic area). It was noted that a previous fence had been removed because of the cost of its maintenance. The Council agreed to examine the costs involved with the possibility of sharing future maintenance costs.

Parish Council Filing requirements

The Clerk requested whether it would be possible to acquire a filing cabinet for the growing current files the Council needs to maintain (not least because of COVID 19) and asked whether it would be possible to keep them somewhere in the Reading Room which serves as the Village Hall. It was agreed the Chairman would ask the MEHM Trust whether this was possible in view of the forgoing and of the operating partnership the Council and MEHM Trust have built together.

 

15. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 21st May 2020:

Public Rights of Way

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.10pm.

 

Draft Minutes of Parish Council Meeting
Held on Thursday, 9th January 2020 at 6.00pm
in the village Reading Room
Clerk to the Council – Wayne Leighton, tel 01485 518570

Present:

Mr D. Lord (DL) Chairman
Miss R. Brown (RBR)
Mrs J. Lord (JL)
Mrs R. Birkin (RB)
Mr M. Wilson (MW)
Mr B. Gorton (BG)

Apologies:

Nil

In attendance:

Councillor Sam Sandell Borough Councillor

1. To consider apologies for absence: All Councillors present.

2. To consider approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on 14th November 2019: No queries were raised and the minutes were passed and signed by the Chairman.

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

4. To adjourn the meeting to allow for public participation: No members of the public were in attendance. Our new Borough Councillor, Sam Sandell attended the meeting and gave Parish Councillors a resume of her duties and responsibilities. The resume is attached.

5. Upkeep of the Village Pond: The tree survey had yet to be completed. RBR would chase this with the Arborist. BG reported that tree/bush cuttings that had been placed to the rear of the pond should be removed to further enhance the appearance. DL would approach a local farmer to see if assistance with trailering away and disposal could be given.

6. Go to Town Transport Update: WNCT had again advised that there were no plans to reinstate the Saturday service to Stanhoe. At the request of RBR, Councillor Sandell agreed to write to WNCT further asking that the request to reinstate the Saturday service to Stanhoe be reconsidered.

7. Great British Spring Clean 2020: Councillors agreed to take part and, subject to the weather, would meet at the Reading Room at 10:30am on 4th April 2020.

8. Village Walkabout: Councillors agreed to undertake a village walkabout on 24th April 2020 at 10:30am. The reserve day would be 25th April 2020 at the same time.

9. Area Police Inspectors Meeting: Inspector Jarvis of Norfolk Police had offered the opportunity for Parish Councillors, 2 from each Parish, to meet with him and local Beat Managers to discuss any issues they may have. The meeting would take place on either 10th March 2020 (evening) or 16th March 2020 (afternoon), venue TBC. DL and MW were available to attend either meeting. The Clerk would advise Norfolk Police accordingly.

10. SAM 2 Update: The SAM 2 continued to operate without issue, but there had been some, now resolved, issues with the laptop. The fastest recorded speeds within the 30mph limit for November and December 2019 had been:

Date Time Speed Sign Position
18th November 19:50 75 mph The Grange facing Docking
21st December 21:50 65 mph Long Wall Barn facing Bircham
During November over 15,800 vehicles passed the speed sign, in December the figure was 24,190 vehicles.

11. Permissive Paths in and around the Village: MW agreed to undertake a survey to ascertain all Public Rights of Way in the village.

12. Request to Support the Local Electricity Bill: A request had been received from the Director of Power for People asking Stanhoe Parish Council to consider supporting the Local Electricity Bill. The Bill, if made law, would empower local communities to sell locally generated clean energy directly to local customers by establishing a statutory Right to Local Supply. Councillors decided, on this occasion, not to support the Bill as no benefits for Stanhoe, or its residents, were apparent.

13. Children’s Play Equipment – Update: The repairs to the children’s play equipment had now been completed. In addition, the annual inspection of the play equipment had been undertaken on 7th January 2020. Whilst some minor observations (low risk) and one medium risk were highlighted, Councillors were surprised that an overall grading of ‘medium risk’ was awarded as only one of the observations was graded medium risk. MW would establish the rationale for this with the Inspector. BG and MW agreed to power wash all the equipment in early April to remove the build-up of algae and moss.

14. Planning Applications and Information: The following planning applications had been received or decided upon since the last meeting:

Application Number Proposal Decision
19/00095/TPO
Crowning to a number of trees.
Lindens, Bircham Road.

TPO work approved by BCKLWN
21st December 2019

15. Financial Report and Approval of Payments: Up to date income and expenditure accounts, budget report and bank statements were circulated by the Clerk. No queries were raised.

Approval was sought and agreed for the following payments:

Chq No Payee Reason £
100780 Playscape Playgrounds Repairs 1380.00
100781 W. Leighton Salary Nov & Dec 19 317.72
100782 W. Leighton Expenses Nov & Dec 19 67.42
100773 HMRC Tax Nov & Dec 19 79.60
100774 D. Bracey Playground Inspection 96.00
16. Resident’s Concerns/Issues Raised after the Agenda was Published: A concern had been raised regarding the use of fireworks in the village. It had been suggested that if advance notice of a fireworks display could be given then homeowners could take precautions in respect of people and animals who become anxious at the sound of fireworks. DL agreed to include this subject in the Parish Council Matters of the next Saints Alive.

17. Items for the Next Agenda – Meeting of 12th March 2020:

Public Rights of Way
Children’s Play Equipment – Update
Better Broadband for Norfolk – Update
BG gave his apologies for the March meeting

No other items were discussed and the meeting closed at 7.50pm.

 

Borough Councillor

Sam Sandell, our new Borough Councillor joined us at our meeting in the Village Hall on January 9th. Below is a commentary/memo she kindly sent us.

On Thursday the 9th January 2020 I attended Stanhoe Parish Council as the Borough Councillor. I was made to feel very welcome and it was nice to see a Parish Council being passionate about where they live for the residents of the village.

I will introduce myself. Some of you may have seen my leaflet at the time of the election.

May seems a very distance memory. I was duly elected to represent you as a village at the Borough.

My ward Boundary runs from Peterstone near Holkham through all the Burnhams, Mucklton, Stanhoe, Docking, through to Bircham Monks Close and half of Hyde Close the Boundary crosses the centre green. It a fairly big ward. I do try and attend as many Parish Council meetings in the ward as I can but I’m also a Parish Councillor in North Creake so some Stanhoe meetings may clash.

In May I was put back onto the Planning Committee this meets on the first Monday of every month in Kings Lynn with very often 180 page agenda to read before I attend.

I am also the Chairman of the Licensing Committee this looks at Pub, Club licences and if license holders have breached their licensing laws they come before me and we can revoke their license of amend it. I am also on the Licensing and Appeals Panel this is where taxi drivers come before us if they have breached any of their licensing conditions. I enjoy these very much.

I am on the Local Plan Task Group this is looking at land and making sure we have enough land for development. This also looks at Planning Policies as well. I am also on the Homeless and Housing Task Group. I also attend relevant training sessions to keep me updated with all polices etc.

If you have any queries or need to contact me please feel free to do so. My email address is Cllr.sam.sandell@west-Norfolk.gov.uk.

With Best Wishes.

Sam

Cllr Sam Sandell