Minutes - February 2008

Held on Thursday, 21st February 2008 – 7.30pm in the Committee Room of Blackmore Village Hall.

Members present: Mrs Barnes (Parish Clerk), Mr Bennett, Mr Brown, Mr Dean, Mr Hall (Vice Chairman), Mr Keeble, Mr Lennon, Mrs Nelson (Treasurer), Mrs Smith, Mrs Stran.

Mr Smith (Editor) - Herald Magazine and eight other members of the public were also present.

Apologies for absence were received from Mrs Henwood (chairman), Mr Giordan, Mr Marr, Mrs Thomas, Mrs Town.

Mr Hall acted as Chair to the meeting in Mrs Henwood’s absence.

AMENDMENTS

The minutes of the previous meeting, having been circulated, were signed as a correct record with the amendment of the following under item 2601. Vandalism: Item should read “The committee reported the seat has been taken at Mill Lane, also the 30MPH sign is broken opposite the Mill Lane play area…..”

OPEN FORUM

The meeting was opened to members of the public. They raised the matter of the Old School and Library redevelopment. Mr Hall read out a letter received from Mr D Hall of Essex County Council (E.C.C) confirming that the appeal in question had been withdrawn as not beneficial to proceed. Therefore, the plans passed would stand for there to be the development of one house, not two as per the appeal, with an allocation of three car parking spaces.

Local residents voiced their concerns and stated that in their opinion the planning issue had not received a fair hearing at the Borough Council meeting on 16th January 2008. They believed that our Borough Councillors had not properly provided for their views to be represented. As neither of the Borough Councillors were present and were thus unable to respond, Mr Hall stated that the Parish Council had taken note of their views and would raise these with those concerned and follow up the issue at the next Parish Council meeting. The Parish Council Planning Committee has written to Mrs Henwood with their comments and await her response and feedback to the meetings proceedings in question.

Mr Hall summarised by saying that the Parish Council had fought to keep the old school, facilitating the former Community library and Youth centre, but to no avail. If development has to proceed, one house is a more favourable outcome than the two.

CORRESPONDENCE

2631. The Clerk advised of two telephone calls from Parishioners concerning the erection of a row of saplings and hedging across a private field in Wyatts Green Lane. They were concerned there was going to be building development when their houses back onto this. The Clerk had contacted Brentwood Borough Council (BBC) who confirmed no plans presently received so we will monitor. It was suggested by BBC that a land registry search might reveal more should anyone wish to do so and are relatively inexpensive to do. It was agreed that the Clerk would speak to Mrs Thomas for the name and map reference of the field as she was looking into it further. The Clerk undertake a land registry search thereafter.

2632. The Clerk read out a letter received from Mr Ray Potter regarding his annual review of charges from April 2008 to March 2009, which the Council approved.

2633. Diary dates received from the Citizens Advice Bureau for surgeries at Tipps Cross Remembrance Hall were read out by the Clerk along with a letter giving feedback on services offered to Parishioners. A copy was also given to Mr Smith, Herald Magazine for advertising and the Clerk will contact C.A.B for surgery dates for Blackmore Church.

2634. The Clerk read out a letter from Essex Association of Local Councils (EALC) regarding changes in legislation (copy on file for future reference).

2635. The Clerk advised receipt from R.C.C.E of the entry pack for ‘best kept village and best green village’ competition. Copy passed to Environment Committee to look into.

2636. The Clerk advised details for the Mayors Charity Ball on 10th May 2008 at the Orsett Hall, should anyone wish to purchase tickets.

2637. The Clerk read out details from EALC ‘surgery and resource days’ whereby their facilities can be used by any Clerk or any member with the Council’s authorisation. This could be to carry out research, use internet or office facilities, have general enquiries answered or to see how they work to serve the member Councils. Dates held on file

2638. The Clerk confirmed receipt of notice of alteration to the register of electors – filed.

2639. The Clerk confirmed the twinning association (Brentwood/Landkreis Roth) would be visiting Brentwood from Thursday 5th June to Tuesday 10th June 2008, staying with hosts who could put them up.

2640. The Clerk read out details from Pitney Bowes of a franking machine offer. However we do not generate enough post to deem this worthwhile.

2641. The Clerk read out information received from the Scouts Association requesting the need of more adult volunteers – it was suggested this be forwarded to Stuart Jennings, current Scout leader of Blackmore Scouts.

2642. The Clerk passed a questionnaire, which had been received from the Essex Rural Partnership, to the Environment committee.

BOROUGH & COUNTY COUNCILLOR REPORTS

Nothing to report.

POLICY & RESOURCES COMMITTEE

2643. FINANCE

The following cheques were approved for payment:

CHEQUES DRAWN AT FEBRUARY 2008 PC MEETING

-	R Nelson	Book keeping
-	S Barnes	Clerk’s salary
-	S Barnes	Internet contribution
-	S Barnes	Office/heating allowance
236.25	HM Revenue & Customs	Clerk’s tax and Joint NI contributions
75.00	petty cash
134.00	Heatherland Ltd	Skip hire
424.68	Telsport	Prep. Herald Mag inc. expenses £124.68
85.80	A to Z Supplies	Tipps X provisions (contra invoice)
85.32	BBC	Play inspections – 11.1.08
37.18	J Oddy & Sons	Goods supplied - maintenance
72.98	Chris Evans (Florist)	flowers: R Nelson & tribute to L Cook
104.93	J Oddy & Sons Ltd	Goods supplied to R Potter-maintenance
297.44	R D Potter	Maintenance
400.00	Blackmore Parochial Charity

Receipts:

£1600.00 – Blackmore Village Hall (Service charge up to 31.12.07).

Payment:

Clerk confirmed the monthly direct debits for Southern Electric and Canon.

2644. FINANCIAL POWERS

The Clerk confirmed, as requested, she had written to Brandon Lewis, BBC asking if the review of the Parish discretionary grant and its 10% reduction would be reviewed as previously stated. Awaiting response.

It was confirmed that the Clerk’s allowance for home office use, heating and electricity allowance would be increased from 1st April 2008 to 31st March 2009, from £600.00 to £650.00 p.a.

Mrs Nelson read out the details of the financial reports and confirmed receipt of the £7,500.00 ‘Awards for all grant’. The financial reports having been circulated to the Committee were an up to date record of the Parish Councils accounts.

2645. COMMUNITY POLICE MEETING

Mr Hall pointed out the last meeting was very well attended. The next meeting will be held at Fane Hall, Kelvedon Hatch on 3rd June ’08. The Clerk read out a letter received from Brentwood Police in response to the question raised of closure to the Kelvedon Hatch Police Station and to the future police support in the Parishes.

Brentwood Police confirmed they are not closing the Kelvedon Hatch Police Office and whilst all Officers would be briefed at Brentwood rather than between the two locations, the Kelvedon Hatch Office would still be well used by the PCSO’s and the Officers who serve our community locally. It was also confirmed that PCSO Susan Payne would still start her day at Kelvedon Hatch as she currently does for briefing etc.

Brentwood Police also confirmed that the number of PC’s and PCSO’s at Brentwood are if anything rising and that they feel per crime, the Blackmore, Hook End and Wyatts Green area actually has a high level of Police support. They will actively tackle any issues brought to their attention through Susan Payne or directly as they take neighbourhood policing very seriously, such as with the recently seized quad bike in the area which is an ongoing problem in the Parishes.

The Clerk has the direct telephone/mobile number for Samantha Jarvis, Neighbourhood Policing team Inspector on file should anyone require it.

2646. COMMUNITY BUS

The Clerk advised last month that a Parishioner, a driver of the Community Bus, had provided a copy of a form he has to complete prior to hiring the Brentwood Community Bus and suggested we may wish to do the same. This was previously agreed and Mr Smith, Herald Magazine agreed he would assist in producing this form. The Clerk will put this form into action with the new bus increases from 1st April 2008.

2647. BLACKMORE CENTRE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Further to the January Parish Council minutes and the Borough Councillor’s report, it was confirmed that the Parish Council have agreed to contribute £10,000 for the Youth Centre project and any other funds would have to be raised externally.

The Clerk would hold any grant payments she may receive from E.C.C or service invoices relating to this project on file until further instructions.

2648. BLACKMORE SPORTS ARENA - (FORMERLY MUGA)

The next Committee meeting is scheduled for 9th April 2008, 8.00pm at Blackmore Village Hall.

2649. BLACKMORE WEBSITE

There are no problems with the website and it is running OK and being monitored by Mr Giordan. The Clerk confirmed she would supply an accurate copy of the previous month’s minutes for inclusion on the website, after amendments.

Also, Mr Giordan is including ‘the what’s on guide’ for Brentwood highlighting events in the area.

2650. RURAL HOUSING

The Clerk informed the Parish Council of a meeting to be held in the Committee room at Tipps Cross Remembrance Hall – 6.30 to 8.30pm on Thursday 28th February 2008 regarding the development of the site at ‘Lathams Wood Yard’, Wrights Lane. This is to provisionally discuss with the neighbours and Parishioners, the forthcoming plans to be submitted with BBC by the developer.

As this site was a suitable suggestion by the Parish Council for Rural Housing, the Clerk was requested to write to Moira Groborz advising of its disappointment at pursuing and relating any feedback or decisions back to the Parish Council with regards to this, asking if she could do so now.

2651. MOBILE LIBRARY

Nothing to report.

2652. YOUTHS - BLACKMORE VILLAGE

There does not seem to be as many problems with this at the moment and it is being monitored by Susan Payne, PCSO after the recent seizure of quad bikes in the area.

2653.BRENTWOOD BOROUGH PARISH COUNCIL ASSOCIATION

Nothing to report. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 3rd March 2008.

BLACKMORE MILLENNIUM PARK

2654. PROGRESS REPORT

The next meeting is scheduled for 13th March 2008 – 8.00pm at Blackmore Village Hall. The Clerk will distribute the agenda prior to this.

PLANNING COMMITTEE

2655.PLANS

The Planning Committee meeting was held on 4th February 2008 at 3.30pm. The items were dealt with under the appropriate headings as per the minutes.

The Clerk informed she had now received a copy of the planning application received for ‘Little Tara’, Hook End Road and this was passed to the Planning Committee.

It was reported that a concrete base and metal post had been erected on the highway outside ‘Lilliput’, Chelmsford Road, Blackmore. Mrs Town has reported this to the planning department, BBC for investigation.

2656.OUTSTANDING ENFORCEMENT ISSUES

Bluebell Farm - Spriggs Lane – The application for a lawful development certificate has now been refused and consideration is now being given to the most appropriate course of action in respect of the enforcement notice which exists on the property.

Oak Tree Farm, Chelmsford Road, Blackmore, CM4 0PZ – This case is still pending further legal action – It was reported by the Committee that there are now two mobile homes on this site. Mrs Henwood has contacted BBC regarding this and is awaiting an update.

ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

A Meeting of the Environment Committee had taken place on 4th February 2008. Attended by Mrs Town, Mrs Smith, Mrs Thomas, Mr Dean, Mr Lennon, Mr Brown. Also present: Mr Giordan

Apologies - Nil.

2657. DRAINS CLEARANCE & ROAD SWEEPING

Roads were swept 4.2.08. BBC looking at possible blocked drains and gullies at pond.

2658. VILLAGE SPEED

Clerk to request BBC to inspect and assess possible damage to the bridge at Blackmore caused by HGV’s.

2659. ALLOTMENTS

The Clerk had received a response from Phil Marriage regarding the set aside field at Ted Marriage. He said he could not consider leasing it as an allotment for various reasons and implications.

2660. MOPED RIDERS

Mopeds seem to be less trouble at the moment. There are still some high speed cars going through the villages.

2661. PARKING - BLACKMORE VILLAGE

Clerk had spoken to BBC to chase the situation regarding the double yellow lines at the junction, Blackmore Road. BBC confirmed advert was placed in local newspaper and will be advertised on the streets for a period of 3 weeks. The work should be completed soon after.

2662. “CATS EYES”

Still not done - Clerk continues to chase for response but is told still no budget.

2663. VANDALISM

Posts on green mended. Seat mended.

2664. POND

Still awaiting environment analysis for Mr Gaymer. Clerk will provide to Committee the reports she has received so far, for reference.

2665. YELLOW LINES (CHURCH STREET)

Mrs Town had chased. Awaiting Mr Hulse’s reply.

2666. POST - SOAP HOUSE CORNER

Ray Potter attending.

2667. VILLAGE GREEN - (DIP)

Awaiting J Sharpe to attend.

2668. NOTICEBOARDS

Ray Potter has now finished and re-instated notice board at Wyatts Green Road. Clerk provided prices for new notice boards for Tipps Cross R Hall. Committee considering options.

2669. SERVICE LANE – DOG FOULING

Ray Potter installing notice at Service Lane. Clerk contacting BBC regarding St Lawrence Garden sign.

2670. MILL LANE HEDGE

The Clerk has contacted BBC regarding completing the hedge trimming and removal of debris in this area. Roger Hulse will look into it with his Parks Department with regards to responsibility.

2671. DOG BIN - FANTAILS

Ray Potter has now installed new dog waste bin. Clerk to request BBC to empty it with the others.

2672. HOLE – CHURCH STREET

The Clerk has contacted BBC regarding repair of the hole reported by Mr Lee. This apparently was mapped out previously but never completed. Roger Hulse, BBC looking into it again.

2673. LIFEBELTS – (POND)

Clerk to order new lifebelt as per the information she supplied. Mr Brown will erect a post to hold it.

2674. TIPPS CROSS – CROSS ROADS (HEDGE)

Clerk had written to BBC and will chase as hedge needs trimming on corner of Tipps Cross Lane and Blackmore Road junction, visibility very bad for motorists. Clerk has spoken to Roger Hulse, BBC and awaits response after he investigates.

2675. ROAD SIGNS –HOOK END LANE/BLACKMORE ROAD

Committee believe the missing finger post used to indicate Hook End and Mountnessing as enquired by BBC, to be replaced. Other posts in question are being looked into by BBC.

2676. MEADOW RISE – (GRASS SEEDING)

Clerk had spoken with Mr Hulse, BBC who will re-seed in April with the fairer weather.

2677. BUS SHELTERS

Clerk contacted Mr Hulse, BBC. Mr Hulse or Mr Lawrence to confirm date to meet committee to discuss the moving of the bus shelter, Blackmore after they have more information regarding this request.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

2678. HOLE – WENLOCKS ENTRANCE

A hole has appeared almost opposite Wenlocks entrance to Blackmore Road. Clerk will inform BBC, Roger Hulse.

2679. BUS SEAT – HOOK END ROAD

The seat has been stolen from Hook End Road. Clerk to ask Ray Potter to make a new wooden seat to replace old one.

Next meeting: 3rd March 2008 – 7.30pm at Crossehouse, Blackmore.

HERALD MAGAZINE

2680. NEXT EDITION

The Magazine is being printed and shortly ready for distribution.

Mr Smith confirmed he has included the date for the Parish Spring Clean for 22nd March 2008, 10.00am, both at Mill Lane, Hook End and Horsefayre Green, Blackmore. The Clerk will display this on the notice boards.

The dates for the citizens advise surgery dates were passed to Mr Smith for inclusion in the May edition.

RECREATION COMMITTEE

A meeting of the Recreation Committee had taken place on 12 February 2008 at Tipps Cross Remembrance Hall. Attended by Mr. Hall, Chairman, Mr Dean, Mr Keeble, Mr Lennon, Mrs Stran.

Apologies: Mr Bennett.

2681. TED MARRIAGE RECREATION FIELD

Spring Animal - Ray Potter to remove spray paint by vandals. Clerk had emailed Ray Potter, pending action.

2682. MILL LANE PLAY AREA

Moles – Now only 2 mole hills. Mr Dean and Mr Giordan will look at these.

Risk Report – Ray Potter was in attendance – ALL WORK NOW COMPLETED.

2683. WALTER HOBBS RECREATION FIELD

Football Pitches - Plans for longer term - Pitches to be sanded and catch board fence to be erected when grant confirmed by Football Foundation. Approximately £1500 (to replace the £804 grant). Plant grant applied for to cover costs of trees, whip hedging and planting.

Waste Bins- A further 2 more bins to be ordered. 1) Topsy Jubilee in green, Supplier: Glasdon, price approximately £188.56. 2) Same Supplier – larger capacity. The last two bins were previously used to replace the bins which were vandalised. It was agreed at the meeting that a budget of up to £500 to include the purchase and installation of the larger bin. Clerk to order.

Arson Incident – It was reported that the teenager responsible for the arson attack on the waste bins, Blackmore had confessed to the Police and given a warning. It was agreed at the meeting the Clerk would obtain the family details/address of the youth and write to the parents holding them responsible for the cost of the damaged bin at £188.56 and we will waive labour and installation cost. If payment is received, this will avoid us taking further action.

Replacement slide – Low pedestal slide to replace old slide (vandalised). Supplier: Wicksteed. Code: 6050-060 (catalogue page 78). Plus safety grass (6130 grass). Installation of slide plus cost of labour by Ray Potter to lay safety grass: £3330.88 / Insurance claim £2885.00 less excess of £125.00, thereby cost to Parish Council £570.00. The additional budget of £445.00 than previously agreed at the January Parish Council meeting was agreed at this Parish Council meeting. The Clerk will order.

Risk Report - Ray Potter was in attendance.

Play Area – The chain link fence and kick board has been replaced by Ray Potter. The small holes will be repaired in a week’s time.

Spring Animal – Awaiting re-painting by Ray Potter in the Spring.

Next meeting : 11th March 2008 - 7.00pm at Tipps Cross Remembrance Hall.

CLERK’S REPORT

2684. MEETING DATES

Planning	03.03.08	3.30pm	Crossehouse, Blackmore
Recreation	11.03.08	7.00pm	Tipps Cross R. Hall
Environment	03.03.08	7.30pm	Crossehouse, Blackmore
Tipps Cross Mgmnt	11.03.08	8.00pm	Tipps Cross R Hall
Parish Council	20.03.08	7.30pm	Tipps Cross R Hall
Millennium Pk Mtg	13.03.08	8.00pm	Blackmore Village Hall
B/More Sports arena	09.04.08	8.00pm	Blackmore Village Hall

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

2685. PARISH SPRING CLEAN 2008

The Parish Spring clean is confirmed for Saturday 22nd March – 10.00am meet at both Horsefayre Green, Blackmore and Mill Lane Play area, Hook End. The Clerk will advertise on all notice boards and contact Stuart Jennings asking if the Scouts could join in and lend a hand. This is also advertised in the Herald magazine.

2686. GRAFFITI - WATSONS CORNER & GUNNELLS CORNER

Mr Dean reported that the bus shelters at the above were painted with graffiti which he has re-painted. Monitor situation as may need to contact BBC to tackle this problem.

There being no further business, the Meeting closed at 9.30 pm.