Bishop's Castle Town Council Meeting 14/11/2000
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF BISHOP'S CASTLE TOWN COUNCIL
HELD IN THE TOWN HALL ON TUESDAY 14TH NOVEMBER 2000 AT 8.OOPM
PRESENT: Councillor P.B. Jones, Mayor, in the Chair.
Councillors: S.J.S.Bedell, J.L.V.Blundell, J.M.Carroll, E.A.Lawrence, J.A.Magill,
G.N. St J. Penney, K.E.C.Pinches, J.A.J.Whittall and R.D.Wright.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Apologies received from Councillors Kinmond and Morris.
2. MINUTES OF MEETINGS HELD ON 17th AND 24TH OCTOBER 2000:
Minutes of the Council Meetings held on Tuesday 17th and Tuesday 24th October, having been circulated were proposed as true record by Cllr Blundell, seconded by Cllr Dr Penney, approved and signed by The Mayor.
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Blundell declared a pecuniary interest in Item 10 and item 11 and an indirect pecuniary interest in item 6.a.
Councillor Carroll declared an interest associated with membership of outside bodies in item 8.
5. MATTERS ARISING:
Item 3.13: The meeting with Mr Gallop due to be held on 27th October has been postponed until Friday 17th November. Could Councillors please meet by the Boar's Head at 12.15 pm.
Item 6.b: Mr A. Gough, Highways Development Control, S.C.C. has advised that phase 11 of Oak Meadow will be an extension to the existing cul-de-sac and will be of limited length with a single junction of the main spine road to serve the new dwellings. In order to maintain a common traffic calming theme it is considered that a flat top plateau should be provided. If and when a link is made from Oak Meadow to Welsh Street additional traffic calming could be considered and the cost of such would be borne by the developer of the final phase. C. C. Phillips had asked the Clerk to raise the possibility of residents of Welsh Street having access to the rear of their properties to alleviate the parking problem in Welsh Street. The Council felt this would not be practical, as it would reduce the number of houses that could be built and as the plans for the final phase of Oak Meadow have already been put forward it is unlikely that this would be considered.
Item 14: The request has been passed to Glyn Shaw, Traffic Calming Engineer, S.C.C. and to date no response has been received. Cllr Carroll suggested that Kerry Green could have 'Access only' sign.
Item 18: Meeting of the Directors of Enterprise South West Shropshire postponed until 16th November. Report will be given at the next meeting. AGENDA NEXT MEETING
Item 20.a: C.C. Phillips advised the Clerk that the grant to Enterprise South West Shropshire of £26,000 is to be re-considered, the loss of this would have a considerable impact on the operation of Enterprise House and the Community College. Cllr Phillips asked if the Council would write a letter of support and request that the S.C.C. to continue with the grant. Cllr Dr Penney proposed a letter is sent urging S. C. C. to continue with it's financial support, seconded by Cllr Lawrence and approved. ACTION TOWN CLERK
Item 20.p: A map of the gritting routes provided by Mr Rutherford has confirmed that Welsh Street and The Cabin are not on the map. Cllr Carroll pointed out that this is the main route for residents of the Kerry Ridgeway to get to school and work and it should be included on the gritting route. Cllr Carroll proposed a letter is sent to Mr Rutherford to this effect, seconded by Cllr Blundell and approved. Cllr Blundell wondered whether the Council should liaise with other parish councils about the possibility of financing a gritting route for some of the important roads.
5. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WISHING TO SPEAK: None.
6. TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT:
a) 1/O0/1 1636/F Planning Permission (full) for installation of 0.3m dish at 15m on (existing) tower at Oakley Mynd Transmitting Station, Bishop's Castle. Crown Castle International, P.O. Box 98,Warwick. Cllr Whittall proposed No Objection, seconded by Cllr Blundell and approved.
b) 1/O0/1 1638/F - 11639/L Planning Permission (full) and Listed Building Consent for erection of 2 dwellings. Variation to planning permission 1/99/10144/F and Listed Building Consent 1/O0/10145/LB. Land to the rear of The Six Bells, Church Street, Bishop's Castle. Ecostruct. Although this is a variation of planning permission it is not clear what has been changed. It was proposed that it would be helpful to have more details of the original application. The Clerk was asked to obtain details from the Planning Department and it is discussed at the next meeting. ACTION TOWN CLERK & AGENDA NEXT MEETING
c) The following planning reports have been received since the last meeting:
1) 1100/1 1562/0 Notice of withdrawal of application. Conversion of building to form accommodation and function/storage area. Old Carriage Workshop, Six Bells Brewery. The Living Village Trust.
2) 110011151 I/F Planning Permission granted for extension to industrial unit, provision of skip bay and erection of a 2m high timber boarded fence. Business & Resource Centre, Enterprise House, Station Street. S.S.D.C.
d) The Clerk read the reply from Mr Caird giving advice in respect of people wishing to address the Council about planning applications. Cllr Wright proposed that the procedures outlined in this letter should be adopted by the Council, seconded by Cllr Magill and approved.
… Comments should refer only to planning applications being considered at that meeting.
… One person to be permitted to speak in favour of an application, which can be the applicant if they wish to.
… One person to be permitted to speak against an application.
… Both be permitted to speak for a maximum of three minutes.
e) SSDC is planning to introduce new planning procedures and in order to inform Councillors of these changes a number of meetings have been organised. Bishop's Castle Councillors were invited to attend a meeting at the Community College on 31st October at 7.30 p.m., but if any-one could not attend a further meeting is to be held on 16th November at 7.30 p.m. Leaflets are being sent out containing all details.
7. ACCOUNTS:
In addition to the invoices listed on the Agenda, an invoice for £283.18 from M.E.B. Contracting for street lighting repairs has been received. Cllr Wright proposed that all accounts as presented are approved for payment, seconded by Cllr Magill and approved.
8. CONSIIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT:
A list of applications had been circulated with the Agenda.
It was resolved under the powers of Section 142 to make the following donation:
Citizens Advice Bureau: Cllr Dr Penney proposed that a donation of £283.00 be made towards the running costs of the Citizens Advice Bureau, seconded by Cllr Wright and approved.
It was resolved under the powers of Section 137 to make the following donations:
1. Ludlow Chamber of Commerce: Cllr Blundell proposed a donation of £25 towards a handtool for one of the students of the Community College, seconded by Cllr Magill and approved, seven votes to two against.
2. No Panic: Cllr Dr Penney proposed no donation be made, seconded by Cllr Blundell and approved.
3. Axis Counselling: Cllr Wright proposed a donation of £25, seconded by Cllr Dr Penney and approved,
4. West Mercia Crimestoppers: Cllr Dr Penney proposed no donation be made, seconded by Cllr Lawrence and approved.
5. Arthritis Care: Cllr Blundell proposed no donation be made, seconded by Cllr Lawrence and approved.
6. Bishop's Castle Dial-a-ride: Cllr Carroll proposed a donation of £250, seconded by Cllr Wright and approved.
7. Relate: Cllr Dr Penney proposed a donation of £25, seconded by Cllr Magill and approved.
Two more applications were put forward at the meeting:
8. Christmas Lights: Cllr Carroll reported that the Chamber of Trade and local business sponsorship have always financed the Christmas lights. There is the on-going expense of maintenance of the lights to be paid for as well as improving them each year, Cllr Carroll asked if the Council would consider making a contribution towards the cost of next years lights. Cllrs Blundell and Whittall are two a group who put in a considerable amount of time putting up the lights each year. Cllr Dr Penney proposed a donation of £50 seconded by Cllr Magill and approved.
9. Library Bookfund: Cllr Lawrence on behalf of The Friends of the Library made a request for a donation towards the fund for additional books for the new library. Cllr Blundell proposed a donation of £50, seconded by Cllr Dr Penney and approved.
9. REVIIEW OF SIX MONTH RULE:
It was felt that the 'Six Month' rule has been useful in the past, but occasionally in the light of new information it would be useful to re-consider a decision. Cllr Wright proposed that paragraph 36 of the book 'Standing Orders and Chairmanship' is adopted with the addition of "written advance notice by at least four members of the Council", seconded by Cllr Dr Penney and approved.
The Standing Orders with immediate effect now read: RESCISSION OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTION: A decision (whether affirmative or negative) of the Council shall not be reversed within six months except either by a special resolution, the advance written notice whereof bears the names of at least 4 members of the Council, or be a resolution moved in pursuance of the report or recommendation of a committee.
10. STREET LIGHTING:
a) Maintenance of lights: Cllr Blundell left the room while this was discussed. It was felt that before the Council considers a contract for maintenance of the street lighting details of costs of street lighting repairs for the last three years should be obtained in order that a comparison of costs can be made. The Clerk has contact MEB for details of repairs but they are not available at present. AGENDA NEXT MEETING
b) Kerry Lane up-grade of lighting: Babtie have responded to the list of suggestions for re-siting lights. Cllr Carroll proposed that the Street Lighting Committee meet and consider, seconded by Cllr Magill and approved. To report back at next meeting. AGENDA NEXT MEETING
11. POLICY ON PROCEDURE FOR APPROVING EMERGENCY EXPENDITURE.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS:
Response from SAPTC was read which was similar to verbal advice from the Auditor. Following discussion about what amount of money would be reasonable for the Clerk to be able to spend in between meetings without reference to Councillors, but reported at the next meeting. Cllr Whittall proposed that the Clerk has the authority to spend up to £350 per job without reference back to the Council. Work from £350 to £1,000 should have the consent of The Mayor and Deputy and over £1,000 should be referred back to the council. Cllr Dr Penney proposed an amendment; that up to £300 per job could be spent on maintenance, repairs and emergencies with the consent of The Mayor or Deputy. Sums over £300 should come back to the full Council for consideration, seconded by Cllr Magill. The amendment was approved and put to the Council as the substantive motion and approved. Cllr Dr Penney also proposed that £300 is the level over which the Council should obtain three competitive tenders, sums below this need not go out to tender, seconded by Cllr Magill and approved.
12. LEADER +:
Cllr Dr Penney attended the meeting at Craven Arms Community Centre on 18th October to discuss the development of the new regeneration initiative, Leader +. The aim of the meeting was to explain the Leader + programme and its implications for rural Shropshire, identify possible priorities for a programme in South Shropshire and establish whether there is enough interest and support to develop a bid. This is a European funding programme starting in 2001 and there are 30 x £Imillion which can be applied for by any group in the Country. The meeting divided into groups who discussed what type of bids might be most successful in getting a grant.
13. CLUN VALLEY LEADER 11 - REPRESENTATIVE:
Cllr Dr Penney reported that a Representative was required to replace Mr B. Darnell on the Clun Valley Leader 11 Local Development Group. There are normally four meetings per year and the next one is to be held at the Community College on Thursday 7th December. Cllr Lawrence said she was willing to attend meetings of this group
14. PATHS FOR WALKERS IN BISHOP'S CASTLE:
Cllr Dr Penney said that the suggestion of a footpath on the B488 had been raised many times over the years. There is a path from the Community College crossroads to the Industrial Estate, then although there is a path on the other side of the road leading to the tennis court, this is now overgrown and covered with grass, after the tennis courts there is no path until the kennels crossroads. People are being encouraged to walk and this is a popular circular route, but it is an extremely dangerous road as vehicles are travelling fast along here. Cllr Dr Penney proposed a letter is sent to Mr 1. Rutherford, Divisional Surveyor asking for a path along this stretch of road, seconded by Cllr Carroll and approved. ACTION TOWN CLERK
15. PLAYING FIELD:
a) Safety Report: The Clerk has arranged to meet Mr R. Parry of Playground Services to discuss the items of equipment that need minor repairs and the swing chains that do not meet the statutory requirements. The meeting was cancelled because of the heavy rain last week, but has been re-arranged for next week. REPORT BACK TO NEXT MEETING
b) Goal posts: Mrs Bayliss, Headteacher of the Primary School has a pair of goal posts that are no longer used by the School and has offered them for the Playing Field. The Playing Field Committee will meet to consider.
16. SKATING FACILITY:
It was reported that there had been several telephone calls in connection with this request from parents, students and Youth Workers. The Clerk had discussed the progress at Church Stretton with the Clerk and Si Pryce, South Shropshire Youth Forum has said he is willing to help and advise, having done a lot of work trying to get a similar area in Ludlow. The Zurich Municipal had provided advice on insurance and the need for regular inspections. A meeting has been arranged for this Friday, 17th November at the Community College to discuss. Cllr Whittall said it would require an area about the size of a tennis court to be tarmaced and he felt that the Playing Field would be a suitable site. It was proposed the Playing Field Committee meet and discuss after the meeting on the 17th.
17. TOWN HALL:
a) Electric Meter: Cllr Dr Penney reported that Mr Jones, SSDC has not yet been able to come to look at the electric meters but will do so as soon as he is able.
b) Clock: Cllr Blundell has wound the clock and reported that the light fitment has broken and needs replacing. Cllr Dr Penney proposed that Cllr Blundell discusses this with the Clerk and the necessary fitment is purchased. Seconded by Cllr Carroll and approved.
c) It was reported that it is hoped to move the concrete trough from the Auction Yard to the agreed site outside the Town Hall next Sunday.
d) Cllr Dr Penney reported he has met Mr Colin Richards, SSDC to discuss the access and entrance to the Town Hall. Because of the steep slope it will not possible to put a access ramp up to the front door, however it is recommended that a handrail Should be put up and a grant may be available for this. Tarmac is considered the safest surface and should be retained where people are walking. The appearance can be improved and made to look more attractive with stone sets at the side and coloured tarmac/stones. The concrete coping on the top of the wall is damaged and worn. Cllr Carroll proposed that tenders are obtained for a handrail, seconded by Cllr Dr Penney and approved. The Mayor, Deputy and Clerk to discuss.
18. CORRESPONDENCE:
a) Letter from resident of Corricks Rise. (The name and address was on the letter, but it was agreed that it should not be disclosed nor minuted, for fear of reprisal.) It was felt that the Housing Association must have written into Tenancy Agreements something about anti-social behaviours and nuisances to other tenants and if as claimed there is evidence of illegal activities then this is a Police matter. Cllr Whittall proposed that letters are sent to the Housing Associations involved, the Chief Inspector and the Chief Executive of SSDC, seconded by Cllr Blundell and approved. ACTION TOWN CLERK
b) Mr B. Edwards: Copy of a letter sent to S. C. C., S. S.D. C. and Severn Trent about the flooding problems in Bishop's Castle. it will be a combination of measures that are required to cure this problem and he included sketches of some of the problems that exist in the present system. A site meeting has been requested with all relevant representatives. Cllr Dr Penney said that he understands new pipes are to be laid from the Church to the Community College crossroads. Cllr Blundell feels that over the years the layers of tarmac on the road mean that the level between the pavement and the road has got less and less and water is more likely to run over the pavement rather than following the road as it would in the past. The top surface of the road needs to be removed before the next layer of tarmac is put on to remedy this.
CIRCULATE
c) South Shropshire Access Group: Notice of A.G.M., to be held on November 21st at the Bishop MascalI Centre, Ludlow. The speaker will be John Ashby, Manager of the South Shropshire Leisure Centre. A new Chairperson and Secretary is required. Any-one wishing to attend contact the Clerk for a copy of the Agenda.
d) Community Council of Shropshire: The Parish Welcome will continue in 2001. Participation is free and includes advice on planning and funding, publicity, inclusion in the brochure etc. All parish and community events between April and October can be included. Forms available from the Clerk. Closing date Friday 26th January 2001.
e) Friends of Bishop's Castle Library: The A.G.M. will be held on Monday 27th November at 7.30 in the new Library. new Committee members will be elected. The Constitution provides for one member from the Town Council, which is currently Cllr Lawrence, could we please advise the Secretary who will be representing the Council for the forthcoming year. Cllr Lawrence confirmed that she is happy to continue on this Committee. ACTION TOWN CLERK
f) S. C. C. Central Services: In response to the Council's request for a copy of the Constitution a copy of the report approved by the Council in July has been forwarded. The Panel is currently working in accordance with paragraphs 10, 11 and 12. When power is delegated then the County Council's normal Standing Orders will apply. CIRCULATE
g) Community College: A new Community Newsletter is being planned for the Bishop's Castle area. Any dates, information or material should be left at Enterprise House before 17th November.
h) Helen Audin, S.S.D.C.: Information during a crisis. During an emergency situation such as the recent severe weather -Conditions and flooding the D. C. is contacted by members of the public and press for updates on the situation. They would be grateful if Council representatives could keep them informed of local situations, blocked roads, floods etc to help ensure the latest information is available. Tel: 01584 813205 or 813209, either Helen Audin or Jill Owen with any information you have. Cllr Dr Penney thought this would be an improvement to the present system, where the South Shropshire Housing Association take out of hours telephone calls.
i) West Mercia Police Authority: Annual Report 1999 - 2000. A video 'Keeping the Beat' reports the Constabulary's performance against the 1999/2000 Policing Plan. Ian Payne, Acting Clerk to the Authority would be interested in views and comments on the Report and enclosed a questionnaire. CIRCULATE
i) Clerks & Councils Direct: CIRCULATE
k) Local Council Review: CIRCULATE
1) South Shropshire District Council News and Views: CIRCULATE
m) Mr R. Surl, Head of Transportation: Concessionary Bus Travel: The Government's new scheme provides a free card entitling pensioners to half price bus travel and will be operated at District level. The basic cards will be valid only for travel within each District. It is for each District Council to decide whether to alter any additional benefits, such as County-wide travel, and at what price. The County Council is working with the District Councils to advise and provide practical assistance as they are seeking to achieve a County-wide scheme. CIRCULATE
n) The Clerk reported that C. C. Phillips has been in contact with the new BBC Radio Controller who has said that the poor quality of the reception of Radio Shropshire in the area is second only to Suffolk and he will be investigating Shropshire's case.
The Mayor declared the meeting closed at 10.00 p.m.