DRAFT

ABBAS AND TEMPLECOMBE PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of Meeting held on the 8th April 2008

 

PRESENT  Councillors I Speight (Chairman), R Saunders, C Brown, G Foers, G Wilson, P Andrew, Sarah Webb, C Hukins

 

IN ATTENDANCE

21 Parishioners, Mr Lee Wright of Wright Associations Limited

 

Chairman welcomed everyone and commenced the open session.

 

Mr David Brett – 2 The Orchard had recently purchased a piece of land between his property and Vine Grove and asked permission, of the Parish Council, for Gartells to come across the Recreation Ground to carry out ground works.  Members had no objections and R. Saunders would organise a key when needed.

 

A representative of the Blackmore Vale Close addressed the meeting in connection with a planning application for a detached dwelling, garage and the formation of a new vehicular access at 2 The Gardens, Slades Hill, prior to the start of the meeting observation notes on the development had been circulated to Parish Council Members.  Chairman explained that the Application had arrived after the preparation of the Agenda and due to the timescale for observations/comments the application had been put on the agenda as an additional item.  Clerk had posted notices on the noticeboards.  A conclusion on the application would be made during the closed session but all residents had the opportunity to write to the Planning Officer with their views.

 

Mr Lee Wright of Wright Associations Limited introduced himself, as agent for the applicant.  He realised the location and access of the proposed development was causing concerns for the residents of Blackmore Vale Close.  It was the intention that the proposed single family dwelling would match in with Blackmore Vale Close and he felt the overlooking issue no greater than the one already in existence.  He acknowledged there were covenants on the plot itself and legal issues to be addressed.

 

A further resident of Blackmore Vale Close pointed out the responsibility of the residents for the upkeep of the private road and from his own research thought it would be difficult to get permission but realised the likelihood of the Agents overcoming the legal issues with regard to the existing covenants, that were placed on the land at the time it was purchased from the late Mr Norman.  Chairman thanked the representatives for their comments and felt there were two separate issues at stake planning and legal.

 

A Parishioner raised concerns about the ongoing traffic problems in the Village especially with HGV’s using the Village and the lack of a weight restriction.  Chairman explained that if we did have a weight restriction local traffic would be exempt.  A number of meetings had taken place with officials but had not progressed the matter any further and there were a lack of alternative routes available to HGV’s.

1              APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

I Middleton, C James, L Bennett, District Councillor Tim Inglefield, PCSO Fiona Wilson

 

2              MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON THE 11TH MARCH 2008 

It was Proposed by Sarah Webb and seconded by C Brown that the draft Minutes be agreed, as previously circulated.

 

3              DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

C Brown (employee) declared an interest in planning application No. 08/01090/FUL – Erection of 2 Steel framed buildings within the mast group compound area – Thales Underwater Systems, Throop Road.  Sarah Webb (owner of neighbouring property) declared a personal/prejudicial interest in the planning application numbered 08/01457/FUL – erection of a detached dwelling, garage and the formation of a new vehicular access – The Gardens, 2 Slades Hill which was not on the Agenda but as previously explained by the Chairman would be discussed at this meeting due to the timescale given for observations.

 

4              CORRESPONDENCE

Correspondence received since the last meeting was discussed:-

1)             South Somerset District Council – Annual Parish Meeting with Area East Town and Parish Councils/Workshop on Core Strategy ‘Issues and Options’ consultation document – Wednesday 30th April 2008 – Chairman reminded Members of the meeting date and to let Clerk know if they wished to attend.

2)             South Somerset District Council – 11th March 2008 (e mail) – Details of participation in the Local Development Framework Core Strategy Issues and Options – Prior to the meeting Clerk had circulated copies of the summary leaflet.  The LDF was looking at the level of housing needed for the future but Members felt that this was over shadowed by a lack of job opportunities.  The consultation period for Parish Councils had been extended to the 30th May.

3)             South Somerset District Council – 18th March 2008 – Outcome of Area East Forum – February 2008 – circulated amongst Members.

4)             Taunton Deane Borough Council – 19th March 2008 – Strategic Housing Market Assessment and Consultation – Chairman explained the recent housing survey forms received by some households were a combined project to establish future housing needs to aid the Strategic Housing Market Assessment and also form a key part of the evidence base for the Local Development Framework at Public Enquiry.

5)             Audit Commission – 17th March 2008 – Confirmation of Appointment of External Auditor – Confirmation of the appointment of Moore Stephens as auditor to Abbas and Templecombe Parish Council for the financial years 2007/08 to 2011/12.

6)             Avon and Somerset Constabulary – Confirmation of change of name Somerton Sector to South Somerset Rural.

 

5              PLANNING

1)            The following determination was noted:-

Planning Application No 08/00150/FUL – Erection of 2 no. polytunnels – Land adjoining Temple Lane, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 OJD

 

2)            Clerk reported that the Area East Meeting would take place on the 9th April 2008 at 9.30 am at the Council Offices, Churchfield, Wincanton.

 

3)            Planning Application No 08/01251/FUL – Erection of No. 1 polytunnel (Revised Application) – Land adjoining Temple Lane, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 OJD.  Members discussed the applications and raised the following objections:-

1)             It was appreciated that this application was now for one polytunnel but Members still considered the measurements given to be inappropriate for personal use.

2)             There are no other polytunnels within the area and it was felt it would be out of character and not in keeping with the surrounding area.

3)             Concerns were again expressed about planning creep, which could ultimately result in a residential application or an application leading to a commercial venture.

 

4)            Planning Application No 08/00837/FUL – Alterations and erection of extension, sun room and loft conversion – 63 Yarnbarton, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 OJJ.  Members discussed the application and raised no objections.

 

5)            Planning Application No 08/01090/FUL – Erection of 2 Steel Framed buildings within the mast group compound area – Thales Underwater Systems, Throop Road, Templecombe, Somerset BA8 ODH.  Members discussed the application and raised no objections.

 

6)            Officers report on Planning Application No 08/00971/FUL – 34 Bowden Road, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 ODH.  Chairman summarised the report which was refusing the application as the proposal was bulky and of a poor design that did not relate well to the existing building.  Also new windows would allow overlooking of the neighbouring properties.

 

7)            Somerset County Council – Validation of Planning Application – Somerset County Council’s

Local List – Consultation/South Somerset District Council – Validation of Planning Applications – update.

Sarah Webb reported that she had looked at the document from Somerset County Council which dealt with waste developments.  If in the future, waste development was required for an application, this would be a good document to be used for reference and planners would look for its support to an application.

 

Chairman reported that the following planning applications and notice of appeal were received after the preparation of the Agenda.  Due to the timescale Members were in agreement for the matters to be dealt with at this meeting:-

 

8)            Planning Application No 08/01457/FUL – The erection of a detached dwelling, garage and the formation of a new vehicular access – The Gardens, 2 Slades Hill, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 OHE. Sarah Webb left the meeting. Members discussed the application and the following observations were made:-

  • It was noted that parking was taking place on a regular basis on the site and some fencing had been removed to facilitate this and a drop kerb installed.
  • Residents from the neighbouring Blackmore Vale Close were present and Members noted that there were a number of legal issues in relation to access which would have to be addressed.
  • It was noted that this was another large Village house which would be left with a small garden after substantial grounds have been allocated for the proposed development.
  • From a planning point of view Members had no objections.

 

9)            Chairman reported receipt of Notice of Advice of Appeal – Application Decision Reference – 07/05057/FUL – Formation of access road, the erection of 3 detached bungalows and garages and a garage to serve existing house – Land rear of No. 30 Bowden Road, Templecombe, Somerset

 

10)          Planning application No. 08/01534/COU – Change of use of land from agricultural to cemetery – Land OS 7542 Temple Lane Templecombe Somerset.  As this was an application submitted by the Parish Council, Members expressed no objections.

 

6              ACCOUNTING MATTERS

1)             It was proposed by Sarah Webb and seconded by C Hukins that the following accounts be paid:-

 

G Foers – Concrete for installation of posts at Recreation Ground                             10.08

SALC – fee for Clerk to attend Audit and Accounts Update

Training Event for Councils 10.4.08 Edington                                                                 15.00

Livingstones Warman Insurance Brokers – Tractor insurance

from 1.5.08                                                                                                                             140.77

J Pratt – Basis pay/hours March/April 08                                                                        116.25

T Chapman (Clerk) – Salary/Expenses – April 08                                                           278.46

 

2)             Clerk reported that the following monies had been received:-

 

Scottish and Southern Energy – 1.4.08 Wayleave payment                                         10.58

H M Customs and Excise – VAT refund 1.6.07 – 31.2.08                                               2,349.94

NatWest Bank PLC – Capital Reserve Account interest to 31.3.08                             75.52

NatWest Bank PLC – Capital Reserve Account interest to 31.3.08

Play Area Appeal Fund                                                                                                      0.16

 

3)             Clerk reported that prior to this meeting it had been necessary to draw a cheque in the sum of £132.50, payable to South Somerset District Council, in respect of the planning permission fee in connection with the proposed cemetery application.

 

4)             Clerk reported the following documentation had been received:-

  • Allianz Insurance PLC – renewal of insurance due date 1st June 2008.  Clerk would check proposed policy and make any necessary alterations to the cover after consultation with the Chairman.
  • Moore Stephens – Audit paperwork.  2nd June 2008 due date for return of Annual Return.

 

7              HIGHWAY MATTERS

1)            Bus Shelter – High Street – update

A reply still had not been received from Mr Mark Pedlar – Transporting Somerset County Council.  Clerk had endeavoured to contact him by phone and would chase matter up again.

2)            Traffic Calming/HGV’s

No report.

3)            Relocation of Stocks – update

G Foers reported that he had inspected the stocks and roof and it appears that the posts supporting the roof are in a bad state.  Clerk reported that the PCC had met to discuss the possible move of the stocks to the Churchyard and the PCC felt historical evidence was needed to support their move.  G Wilson reported that he thought they were moved just after the First World War when the War Memorial was constructed.  Other suggestions for them were made i.e. entrance to Casterbridge development, on the grass by the well at the entrance to Manor Close and on the grass area on Slades Hill.  It was agreed that an article should be included in the June edition of the Newsletter to seek Parishioners views as to whether they should be moved or remain where they are now.

4)            Fly tipping – Temple Lane

Clerk reported that a letter had been sent to South Somerset District Council – Streetscene concerning the ongoing problem of fly tipping in Temple Lane.  A Parishioner had retrieved a letter from a dumped bin bag, which had been forwarded to South Somerset District Council.  A report of further tipping at Moormill Bridge had been received and reported.  Clerk had spoken to Mr Gottileb who confirmed that a map, showing the fly tipped areas, had been passed to street cleaners and arrangements would be made to clear the tipping.  Mr Gottileb was happy to have a site meeting if necessary.

5)            Other

Now the planters had been removed it was suggested that a small rookery be constructed at the Village entrance sign on Combe Hill.  Mr Graham Budden had volunteered to look after it.  Sarah Webb reported that Morrisons – Wincanton were offering small grants of £50.00 to local causes and would make some enquiries.  It was noted that a car was continuing to park and obstruct the Village sign.

R Saunders reported that a kerb stone had been pushed into the ground and the grass verge damaged, near the Casterbridge development and this would need reinstating in due course.  Also some damage had been caused to the grass verge at the top of Hillcrest.  The parking at Westcombe into Bowden Road was beginning to become a problem again.  PCSO Fiona Wilson would be asked to inspect the area again and if possible have a word with those responsible.

G Foers reported that he had concreted in two posts, near the five bar gate, at the Recreation Ground.  The remaining 20 posts were beginning to rot and he felt they had a life span of 1 to 2 years left.  He suggested that concrete posts could be used instead of wood and he agreed to look into what was available.

It was reported that there were a number of potholes in Throop Road in need of attention.  Clerk would contact Highways.

Clerk reported that she had now spoken to the owners of No. 1 Station Road who were quite happy for the Parish Council to organise the planting of some shrubs/bulbs.  They did enquire who would be responsible for maintenance and it was felt the Parish Council would take on this role if planting took place.  The ivy needed to be dealt with initially and it was suggested that the Scout Group might like to be involved.  Clerk had spoken with Mr Stephen Fox – Landscape Officer – South Somerset District Council who had confirmed that the Parish Council could be included in the Spring Bulb Offer.  Members were happy to take up the offer of approximately 3,500 assorted bulbs.  It was suggested that some could be given to the School for planting at the new building area.   Clerk would contact Mr Fox.

 

8              FOOTPATHS

P Andrew had received a copy of the Rights of Way newsletter which reported that 160 signs had been put up but unfortunately the one required for Throop Road was still not in place.  He was also due to receive a mini tool kit and handbook.  The Primary school were interested in tackling some of the walks.

 

9              TREE WARDEN’S REPORT

In I Middleton’s absence there was no report but it was noted all the trees were in a good state.

 

10           PROVISION OF CEMETERY

The planning application had been submitted and was now published for comments/observations.  Mr J Milton wished to express his thanks to the Parish Council for his gift, for his work in preparing the plans.

 

11           NEWSLETTER

C Brown reported that he had not received any feedback on the Precept article to date.  Sarah said that Sticky Fingers Pre-School were due to move into the new build at the beginning of April and it was agreed to defer an article on the move until the September edition.  The following items were available for the June edition:-

  • Gartells train article
  • A reminder about dog fouling on the Recreation Ground
  • The Activ8 Scheme – Clerk would chase up an article from Laura Johns – Linx Project.  C Brown would need this within the next 2-3 weeks.
  • Bellringers
  • G Wilson reported that £50.00 had been collected from the Village collecting tins towards the Village Christmas lights.

 

12           RECREATION GROUND MATTERS/CHILDRENS PLAY AREA

A)            Play Area – Weekly Play Area Inspection Reports

Reports had been received from J Pratt.  It was also noted that the latch had been broken on the maintenance gate at the BMX track and the step to the outside toilet was crumbling away.  G Foers volunteered to have a look at both matters.

B)            Somerset Playing Fields’ Association – Somerset Field of the Year

The Association were launching a Somerset Field of the Year Award to recognise good stewardship of community play and sports facilities in the County.  Members were in agreement for the Parish Council to enter.  An entry fee of £5.00 was required to cover administration.

C)            Social Club

G Foers read out the report intended for the Annual Meeting, as attached.  R Saunders commented on the condition of the windows that were in need of repair.  Members felt that the Parish Council could possibly supply paint and materials and it may be possible to obtain a grant for repairs.  G Foers/C Hukins would bring up the need for maintenance at the next Committee meeting.  It was also noted that the Sports and Social Club sign, at the entrance to the Club, had been smashed.

D)            Football Club – Agreement of Usage/Changes to Water Meter – Changing rooms

Further additions had been made to the Agreement of Usage to cover payment for electricity, insurance of the goal posts and advance notification of fixtures.  A copy had now been sent to the Football Club.  It was thought the water meter could be fitted at the same time G Parsons carries out the work to replace the showers.

E)            Other

The Tennis Club were in the process of having plans drawn up for planning permission for the proposed floodlights, which would come to the Parish Council in due course.

 

13           ANY OTHER BUSINESS/ITEMS FOR AGENDA FOR THE NEXT MEETING ON 13TH MAY 2008 (Annual Parish Council Meeting followed by usual monthly meeting)

None

 

Meeting closed at 9.30 pm          signed…………………….dated