DRAFT

DRAFT

ABBAS AND TEMPLECOMBE PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting held on the 10^th October 2007

PRESENT Councillors I Speight (Chairman), C James (Vice Chairman), R F B Saunders, I Middleton, P Andrew, C Hukins, C Brown

IN ATTENDANCE

PCSO Fiona Wilson, two Parishioners

Chairman welcomed everyone and commenced the open session.

PCSO Fiona Wilson reported that she had arranged for a car to be removed, which had been left by the owner, which was obstructing a junction. No one had been found to be responsible for the graffiti at Thales. She had visited the storage unit at the Recreation Ground and spoken to youths. There had been two break-ins at The Hamlet. Village Neighbourhood Watch schemes were going well.

Julian Kiddle reported, on behalf of the Manor Close residents, that the work to trim the existing fir trees on the green had taken place. The next phase will be the inter-planting of 5 new trees in between the existing firs on the south side of the green and around the curve of the access road. The work is planned for November and the costs of trees and materials are estimated at £70.00 per tree, totalling approximately £350.00. The residents of Manor Close were prepared to make a contribution and the Parish Council had indicated previously that they would consider a donation towards costs. Chairman suggested that Julian see what financial response he got from the residents and the Parish Council would make up the shortfall. I Middleton and a few others were happy to help with the planting.

It was reported that the guttering under the bridge was still in need of replacement. Clerk would chase the matter up.

1 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

G Foers, Sarah Webb, L Bennett, G Wilson, County Councillor/District Councillor William Wallace, District Councillor Tim Inglefield.

2 MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON THE 11^TH SEPTEMBER 2007

It was proposed by R Saunders and seconded by P Andrew that the draft Minutes, as previously circulated, be agreed as a true copy.

3 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

Councillors C Brown and C James declared an interest under Agenda item no 5 in respect of Planning Application for new Elliott unit for Pre-school and extended School use at Abbas and Templecombe Primary School, School Lane, Templecombe in their role as School Governors.

4 CORRESPONDENCE

Correspondence received since the last meeting was discussed:-

1) The Balsam Centre – Acknowledgement of donation

2) South Somerset District Council – South Somerset Local Plan. Chairman read out letter indicating that the two legal challenges lodged had been withdrawn and Plan would now go to print.

3) South Somerset District Council – Withdrawal of Non Strategic Bring Banks. Chairman reported that due to the weekly kerbside collections a number of Recycling Banks would be removed. The Bring Banks at the Recreation Ground had already been removed.

4) Somerset Waste Partnership. Chairman read out letter which indicated that as from the 15^th October 2007 ECT would be responsible for the refuse and recycling collection contract. Initially there would be no changes to our collections but observations would be made to ensure recycling collections remain weekly.

5) Somerset County Council – Are your views going to waste? – Consideration is being given to “Issues and Options” for a plan that will set out how and where waste will be managed in Somerset for the next 20 years. Notification of consultation arrangements.

6) David Heath CBE MP – Post Office Closures. Chairman read out letter indicating the current position concerning closure of sub-post offices in Somerset. Mr Heath thanked the Parish Council for their support.

5 PLANNING

1) Determination of Applications (if applicable) – None

2) Clerk reported that the Area East meeting took place today, Wednesday 10^th October 2007 at 9.30 am at the Council Offices, Churchfield, Wincanton, Somerset. Matters of interest included Henstridge Airfield Master Plan and A357 South Cheriton, Traffic Flows. I Middleton had attended the meeting as representative of the Parish Council and reported as follows:-

Mr Gary Frecknell and Richard Matthews, Somerset County Council, attended the meeting and reported that they were working on an Ordnance Survey project to improve satellite systems so that inappropriate routes were not taken. Talks were taking place with the EC to make improvements for foreign drivers. This project is long term and it may be two to three years before any results are seen.

The meeting looked at the graphs concerning traffic flows which revealed an increase of 40% in HGV’s since 2002. The burden of a larger proportion of HGV’s occurred after the introduction of a weight restriction at Queen Camel and it was questioned whether, after strengthening works to the bridge, this route could be re-opened.

The Horsington Campaign Group raised on going concerns as to the speed variations along the A357 between the Anchor Hill roundabout and Horsington dip.

Mr Tim Carroll reported that in 2003 there had been a temporary increase in HGV movements but felt that it had now levelled out as vehicles had found the route unsuitable and used alternatives. Representatives from Somerset County Council would go away and prepare answers and comments.

Mr Tim Carroll declared a resolution:-

1) That the whole stretch of the A357 and A371 to the county border should carry a weight limit of seven and a half tons.

2) Speed restrictions should be revised along the A357 – Anchor Hill to Horsington - a constant 40 mph with a limit of 30 mph at the Horsington dip.

3) Highways co-operate with Dorset County Council to discuss the A357 to A350.

The chairman of Area East, Mr Mike Lewis, asked for a meeting to take place with Highways, Parish Councils and residents before the end of the year.

Chairman thanked I Middleton for attending and reporting back.

3) Notification of appeal decision in respect of Application Decision Ref 06/04053/FUL – Erection of a new dwelling – 5 Vine Grove Templecombe Somerset BA8 OJU. Clerk reported appeal dismissed on the grounds that the aspect to existing property was not sufficient.

4) Application No 07/03840/FUL – Alterations to roof to form loft conversion and formation of 4 no dormer windows – Greenways 52 Bowden Road, Templecombe, Somerset BA8 OLF – AMENDED DRAWINGS. Members were referred to copy letters, addressed to the Planning Department, from an adjoining owner, raising objections to the application. Members raised no objections, letters of objection to be referred to when replying.

5) Somerset County Council – New Elliott unit for Pre-school and extended School use at Abbas and Templecombe Primary School, School Lane, Templecombe, BA8 OHP (Grid Ref: 370944 – 122749). Members were informed that the building was scheduled to go ahead in February 2008 and the School would be seeking further financial help. Members raised no objections and would discuss financial help in due course.

Following application was received after agenda was prepared:-

6) Application No 07/03873/FUL – Alterations and Extension to dwelling – 47 Manor Close Templecombe Somerset BA8 OLA. Members discussed the application and raised no objections.

6 ACCOUNTING MATTERS

1) It was proposed by C Brown and seconded by R Saunders that the following accounts be paid:-

South Cheriton Garage – Gas oil – July, August, September 07 73.00

Bailey Streetscene Limited – Purchase of bin for Recreation Ground 329.00

A J Dunn – Salary/Expenses – October 2007 60.00

Mr Jeremy Pratt – Grass cutting at Recreation Ground from

11/9/07 to 9/10/07 and fuel 84.90

Mrs T J Chapman – Clerk’s Salary/Expenses October 07 250.33

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

Donation towards litter bin for Recreation Ground 300.00

Herbert Amusements – Rent for Fair 2007 250.00

Templecombe Rovers Football Club – pitch fees Sept. 07 80.00

NatWest Bank PLC – interest to 28^th Sept. 07 – Capital Reserve Account 146.46

NatWest Bank PLC – interest to 28^th Sept. 07 – Capital Reserve Account

(Play Area Appeal Fund) 28.85

7 HIGHWAY MATTERS

1) Bus Shelters on High Street/Templars Barton – update

Clerk reported that G Foers had indicated that he was working on the plans for a replacement shelter on the High Street. Clerk had spoken with Queensbury Shelters Limited and they had indicated their 2004 price list was still current. Clerk would enquire as to possible grants.

2) Provision of waste bin – corner of School Lane/Recreation Ground – update

Chairman reported that he felt the bin on the corner of School Lane was being well used. It was considered whether to have some form of hinged lid on the present bin which was in need of re-positioning. I Speight and I Middleton agreed to see what could be done.

The donated bin for the Recreation Ground had been delivered and arrangements would be made for its installation.

3) Speedwatch Scheme – update

I Middleton reported that one session had been held since the last meeting, with Viv Middleton and Clerk. 175 vehicle movements were recorded in the hour and 8 speeders were logged. Tri-signs, which could be fitted around lamp posts, were available with a selection of messages. I Middleton indicated that he did now wish to carry on with the role of co-ordinator and he suggested that Mr Scott Pollard may wish to take it on. C James gave a vote of thanks to I Middleton on behalf of the Members.

4) Other

Post Box on Slades Hill – Clerk had received a reply from Royal Mail indicating that they would be organizing for the box to be sprayed with an insecticide.

C James reported that bramble growth was becoming overgrown on Footpath 29/15 off of the High Street.

R Saunders reported that he had spoken to Highways on a number of matters in the Village and arrangements to deal with these were in hand.

Highway Lighting – Lighting off of School Lane

Clerk had received a reply from Somerset County Council indicating that they had forwarded details to Mr Stevenson at Property Services to reply directly. As the lights were on un-adopted highway the County Council has no records for the units. It may be they come under the School’s maintenance contract.

8 VILLAGE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2007 (UPDATE IF APPLICABLE)

C James reported that he understood G Wilson had received estimates for Christmas trees and obtained wire to make a configuration.

9 TRAFFIC CALMING ISSUES/HEAVY GOODS VEHICLES – UPDATE

1) Somerset County Council – HGV pinch point consultation

Following pinch point areas to be reported:-

Yew Tree bend
High Street – no pavement

· Approach to Railway Bridge especially as there is no School Crossing Patrol

· Manor House/junction with Bowden Road

10 FOOTPATHS

1) The Ramblers’ Association – Rights of Way issues in Somerset

Parish Council consultation on a Path Prioritisation System in Somerset

P Andrew reported on the letter dated 11^th September. The Ramblers’ Association was concerned with the consultation carried out by the District Council/County Council enquiring as to paths in need of prioritization in respect of upkeep, repairs etc. They felt no path should be singled out all were important. P Andrew commented that the paths had to be on County land and not on land in private ownership.

Footpath 29/15 High Street – If the reported bramble growth was behind fencing maintenance would be the responsibility of the owners of adjoining property. This footpath had been reported under the consultation and P Andrew would speak with Peter Keenlyside.

Footpath 29/7 Throop Road – The work to the gate had now been completed. C Brown reported that a cesspit had been overflowing on to the path.

The bridge at the end of Throop Road had now been fully restored by Somerset County Council.

P Andrew reported that the traveller residing at the green land, Temple Lane, had boarded his gate preventing access. Chairman and P Andrew agreed to have a word with the traveller.

11 TREE WARDEN’S REPORT

Manor Close – trees - Dealt with under open session.

I Middleton reported that the 10 oaks in Temple Lane were in need of weeding. The trees, planted on the grass adjacent to Moormill Bridge had been totally browsed away. He felt that this area, for a future project, could be made into a woodland area, costings could amount to approximately £3,000-£4,000 in total.

The Hawthorn at the entrance to Manor Close had been tided up. The branch, broken down by the truck, had left a scar. The other memorial tree had healed itself.

Trees at Hillcrest had been checked. I Middleton would arrange for Mr Phil Poulton to check the TPO Horse Chestnut in the Hamlet as it was reported to be touching an adjoining property.

12 PROVISION OF CEMETERY

Chairman reported that a site visit had taken place on the proposed land at Temple Lane. An area of verge could possibly form a parking area for a small number of cars. He advised that Members should have a look at site. It would be necessary to contact the District Valuer to ascertain that the suggested price for an acre of land is acceptable. Costings would have to be obtained for the accompanying ground works. Plan was circulated and an alternative area was discussed but it was felt this was not so practical. Chairman summarized the steps it was now felt should be taken as follows:-

· Contact District Valuer

· Obtain views of Environmental Agency

· Investigate possible finances available i.e. loans

It was proposed by P Andrew and seconded by C Hukins that this action should be taken. Agreed by all Members present.

13 NEWSLETTER

C Brown circulated notes of suggested articles. Members agreed that it was not possible to accept commercial advertisements. Members were happy to accept the article on the “24 hour help at the touch of a button – Careline” and the Village Cemetery update. Other suggestions were:-

Photo of hand over of cheques to King Arthur’s Community School/Wessex Ambulance Trust resulting from the Pageant.
Then and now photos of Throop Road
Village Christmas events i.e Church
BMX Track opening

14 RECREATION GROUND MATTERS/CHILDRENS PLAY AREA

A) Play Area – Annual Playground Inspection Report/Risk Assessment 2007

Chairman reported that he had read the report and there were no major works required. Work to wet pour was outstanding.

B) BMX Bike Park proposal – Abbas and Templecombe Primary School – (update)

Chairman reported that a site meeting had taken place with Mr John Gartell, Mr Orr – Bourton Fencing, Paul Hawkins – Tennis Club Re: Trench for electric cable, G Foers, R Saunders and Clerk. The area for the track had been marked out. Clerk reported that Mr Orr had attended the site again as the bow top safety fencing had to be a minimum of three metres from the actual track. This would result in approximately 24 metres of fencing being required. Mr Orr would submit an account and further funds would need to be acquired to cover the additional costs. Clerk would write to the current funders of the project and other likely sources. It had been suggested that a walk way should be left between the fence and tennis court to allow for dog walkers/users of the tennis courts to access gate and it would be beneficial to line up the fencing with the tennis court to allow for grass cutting. For this to be achieved the track would have to be moved laterally, all Members present were in agreement to this and Chairman advised that another site meeting, with all interest parties, would be arranged to finalize positioning of track/fence. Lewis Woolacott would be asked to attend to advise on construction of hills etc in respect of track.

C) Social Club

C Hukins circulated copies of the balance sheet. R Saunders had attended the AGM and the Committee was in need of a Treasurer. Chairman thanked C Hukins for attending AGM and reporting back to Members.

D) Football Club – Provision for insurance of goal posts

Chairman read out letter dated the 3^rd October 2007 from the Secretary concerning insurance arrangements for the goal posts. No insurance could be found and it was proposed that the Club pass over ownership to the Parish Council so that they could be covered under our insurance policy. Members were agreeable to this arrangement provided that written confirmation was received from the Football Club indicating that they would be responsible for care, safety requirements, maintenance and repair. Football Club would be responsible for the annual premium. Clerk would reply accordingly.

It was noted that insulation tape had been discarded outside of the changing rooms.

Clerk reported that a key to the five bar gate would be given to Daniel Hill to allow additional parking for team/spectators in connection with the Youth Football.

E) Templars Tennis Club – Trench for electric cable (update)

Clerk reported that Gartell and Son had provided a quote for 110m of electric cable for the sum of £641.30 plus VAT. A copy of the quote had been handed to Paul Hawkins, on behalf of the Tennis Club, and they were happy to accept it and meet the costs.

F) Changing Rooms – Replacement of showers

Clerk reported that a verbal quote had been received from Mark Biddiscombe Limited. For the work required to replace six showers costs were approximately £2,000-£3,000 plus VAT. Four showers £1,000-£2,000 plus VAT. Football Club was awaiting to hear from the Somerset Football Association as to whether there were any grants available. Clerk had enquired of South Somerset District Council. Chairman felt that in view of the likely costs some form of grant would be required to finance the project. It was felt that Football Club should be responsible for the maintenance/cleaning of the changing rooms when all the work required had been completed.

G) Other

Chairman and Members commented on the neat and tidy condition of the Recreation Ground.

15 ANY OTHER BUSINESS/IEMS FOR AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING ON 13^TH NOVEMBER 2007

It was noted that fly tipping was taking place in Temple Lane. Clerk would contact District Council and arrange for it to be picked up.

Chairman reported that two quotes had been received in respect of a sign for the School Lane Car Park. Alpha Signs amounted to £43.86 plus VAT and Vale Signs and Print £35.00 plus installation of £10.00. It was agreed that “by Order of Abbas and Templecombe Parish Council” should be included on the sign. Parish Council could make it a bye law but not a criminal offence. Members were happy to proceed with the quote from Vale Signs and Print.

The parking situation around the Railway Station was noted and it was thought that car park charges were to be introduced shortly. It was noted that there is land, adjacent to the Station, that could be possibly used for parking facilities and this should not be sold off by the Railway.

Meeting closed at 10.15 pm

Signed…………………………………………….dated………………………………….