Minutes - March 2007

MEETING OF THE BLACKMORE, HOOK END & WYATTS GREEN PARISH COUNCIL

Held on Thursday, 17 May, 2007 in the Committee Room of the Tipps Cross Remembrance Hall.

Members present: Mrs. Henwood, Chairman, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Giordan, Mr. Hall, Mr. Keeble, Mr. Lennon, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Thomas, Mrs. Town, Mr. Marr, Mrs. Mills, Parish Clerk and Mrs. Barnes, new Clerk .

Terry Smith - Editor - Herald Magazine was also present.

Apologies for absence were received from Mr. Dean, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Stran and Ann Naylor, Essex County Councillor.

 

The Minutes of the previous Meeting, having been circulated, were signed as a correct record with the following amendment:

Item 2123 - Should read BBC are asked to clear Hay Green Lane not as stated.

ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN

Mrs. Henwood vacated the Chair and the Clerk invited nominations for Chairman. Mrs. Thomas proposed Mrs. Henwood, seconded by Mrs. Town. There were no other nominations. It was unanimously agreed that Mrs. Henwood should remain as Chairman.

ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN

Mrs. Henwood called for nominations for Vice Chairman. Mr. Bennett proposed Mr. Hall, seconded by Mrs. Henwood. There were no other nominations. It was unanimously agreed that Mr. Hall should remain as Vice Chairman.

ELECTION OF COMMITTEES

It was agreed that Committees should remain the same with the addition of Mr. Giordan as the Village Hall Representative replacing Mrs. Henwood, he will also attend other Committee Meetings to decide where else he may wish to serve

Recreation Committee : Mr. Hall, Chairman, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Dean, Mrs. Stran, Mr. Lennon, Mr. Keeble.

Environment Committee : Mrs. Town, Chairman, Mr. Dean, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Brown, Mr. Lennon, Mrs. Thomas.

Planning Committee : Mr. Marr, Chairman , Mr. Dean, Mrs. Town, Mrs. Thomas, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Stran, Mr. Brown.

Millennium Park : Mr. Keeble, Chairman, Mr. Bennett, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Lennon, Mrs. Nelson, Treasurer, Mr. Daldry, Dr. Jennings.

Policy & Resources : Mrs. Henwood, Chairman, Mr. Hall, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Keeble, Mr. Marr, Mrs. Town, Mrs. Nelson, Treasurer.

Blackmore Parochial Charity : Mr. Bennett, Mrs. Town.

Blackmore Community Bus : Mr. Hall, Mrs. Nelson, Treasurer, Parish Clerk.

BBPCA : Mrs. Henwood, Mr. Hall - reserve.

Blackmore Village Hall Committee : Mr. Giordan.

Magazine : Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Mr. Dean - Distribution

Youth : Mrs. Henwood.

Muga : Mr. Keeble, Chairman, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Lennon. Mr. Blackwell, Mr. Barclay.

 

CORRESPONDENCE

•  HEATHERLANDS SKIP HIRE

Notification had been received from Heatherlands Skip Hire that they are increasing their charges because the government have increased landfill tax for all active wastes by £3.00 per tonne from 1 April 2007. The charge for a 12 and 16yd skip will increase by £10.00 inc. VAT.

Mrs. Henwood asked if the Council should consider stopping this service. Clerk advised that the three sites in the Parish are very well used, all the sites are adjacent to bungalows where elderly parishioners reside. Agreed should continue for time being.

Mr. Giordan asked if we have details of the operation of this Company with regard to Licensing etc. Clerk advised that they are reputable Company, well known in the area, who operate a plant and waste service.

•  CANON PHOTOCOPIER

Clerk advised that a letter had been received from the above advising that their charges will increase from June 2007 to £0.009476. Noted.

•  M.D. LANDSCAPES

A letter had been received from M.D. Landscapes advising that they have now successfully completed a certificate of competence in the application of pesticides which is a legal requirement for weed spraying. Noted.

•  REGISTER OF ELECTORS 2007

Notice of alteration had been received in respect of the above.

BROUGH & COUNTY COUNCILLOR REPORTS

Letter had been received from Ann Naylor giving apologies for not attending the Parish Council Meeting, she also stated that she was hoping to speak to Brian Keane, BBC, concerning the Joint Supporting Statement for the Youth Service/ Library site and would keep Mrs. Henwood informed of the outcome.

Mrs. Henwood, due to election, had nothing to report.

POLICY & RESOURCES COMMITTEE

A Meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee had not taken place.

2148. FINANCE

The following cheques were approved for payment:

CHEQUES DRAWN DURING THE MONTH PRIOR TO THE MEETING:

£43.88 Powergen - Electricity supply
£1075.20 BJK Insurance Brokers - Insurance renewal for Bus
£103.00 B.J.K. Insurance Brokers - Personal Injury Ins. - Bus
£10.00 Essex Playing Fields Ass. - BKPF Comp - Entry Fee

CHEQUES DRAWN AT MAY 2007 P C MEETING

£85.32 BBC - Inspection of Play Areas
£48.73 J. Oddy & Sons - Materials
£9.50 R.D. Potter - Expenses
£238.75 R.D. Potter - Maintenance Work
£729.68 CPA Horticulture - Play Bark
£27.00 CPRE - Annual Subscription
£140.51 BT - Phone bill
£258.00 Heatherland Ltd - Skip Hire
£277.30 Wrights Farm Contractors - Weedkilling
£20.70 Mark Harrod Ltd - Football post slots
£ Mrs. R. Nelson - Accounting of Parish Books
£208.78 Inland Revenue - Tax taken from Clerks salary
£257.45 Essex County Council - Pension Payment
£59.54 Petty Cash
£ - Mrs. D. Mills - Heating & Lighting Allowance
£ - Mrs. D. Mills - One months salary - includes rent of Parish

Office

£9.00 Mrs. D. Mills - Contribution to Broadband
£697.20 M.D. Landscapes - Grass cutting.
£467.44 Essex Association of Local Councils - Annual Sub'n

Receipts :

£1,904.83 Blackmore Village Hall Committee - Repayment of Loan

Payment :

£1,463.01 Loan payment to Public Works Loan Board on 17 May 2007.

2149. FINANCIAL POWERS

Mr. Bennett read to the Meeting details of the Parish Accounts to the end of the month.

2150. COMMUNITY POLICE MEETING

Meeting had taken place at Fane Hall, Kelvedon Hatch on 15 May 2007. Members of the Village Hall Committee had attended to express concern about the youths in cars and scooters etc. at the Village Hall area - Section 59 orders are being issued which could result in vehicles being seized if youths continue to offend. Police are giving a lot of attention to the area.

2151. COMMUNITY BUS

Bus Service, MOT etc. had been carried out.

Mrs. Thomas asked if the goal posts stored in the Garage could be moved to the opposite side of the garage to make easier access for drivers of bus. Agreed, Mr. Keeble to arrange.

Mr. Keeble reported that the problem with the electricity supply to the garage had been identified. Steps will be taken to correct it.

2152. BLACKMORE CENTRE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Mrs. Henwood reported that application for grants are being made.

Letter received from John Daldry Partnership with copy letter from Ursula Morhall - Planning Officer at BBC with regard to submitted plans. She asked whether one squash court would remain after the conversion, also if the applicant will be willing to sign a S.106 agreement which would revoke the existing planning permission on the Blackmore Millennium Park if this application is agreed. Mr. Daldry had replied that a Section 106 will be signed and that one squash court will remain. He had also offered to show Ms. Morhall around the Village Hall site.

2153. MULTI GAMES AREA

Further information had been requested from HM Revenue & Customs with regard to our application for refund of VAT. Mr. Lucas had been asked for this information which he should have on file - reply required by 24 May 2007.

Mr. Keeble reported that MUGA is very well used. Now in receipt of all grants.

2154. BLACKMORE WEBSITE

Clerk agreed to email Minutes to Mr. Giordan for inclusion on website.

2155. RURAL HOUSING

Mrs. Town had met with RCCE - Rural Housing Enabler and toured the Parish looking for suitable sites Only possibility was in Wyatts Green - Clerk also to pass on information with regard to site in question.

2156. MOBILE LIBRARY

Nothing further to report. 

2157. YOUTHS - BLACKMORE VILLAGE 

Problems continue - reported under Item 2150.

Reply had been received from Eric Pickles - MP, that he had been assured by Chief Inspector Luke Collison at a recent meeting that he would be doing all he can to stop the problems being experiences in Blackmore and Ingatestone. If the problems persist please let him know.

2158. BRENTWOOD BOROUGH PARISH COUNCIL ASSOCIATION

Nothing further to report.

2159. CLERK'S RETIREMENT

Clerk reported that a letter of acceptance had been received from Mrs. Susan Barnes who will replace her when she retires. Susan will commence on 1 June 2007 giving a time of change over until the Clerk retires on 8 July 2007.

•  CODE OF CONDUCT

A further letter had been received from Standard Board in respect of the adoption of the Revised Model Code of Conduct - copy to be passed to all Parish Councillors before formal adoption is agreed. Clerk to act accordingly.

BLACKMORE MILLENNIUM PARK

2161. PROGRESS REPORT

Next Meeting will take place on 13 June 2007.

Weedkilling to paths had been done. Clerk had obtained a quotation for replenishment of shells from C.P.A. Horticulture (They had supplied Play Bark at WHRF) - It had been calculated that we would require 21 Cu. Mtrs. For a 420 sq. mtr area. Delivered loose this would be £21. Per Cu. Mtr.

Unfortunately they only supply the materials, they cannot spread the shells on the paths. Mr. Keeble will speak to Mr. Hollingsworth, a contractor previously used, to seek a costing for this work. Clerk will also find out the cost if the shells are delivered in bags.

Mr. Keeble reported that dog bins are not being emptied - Clerk to speak to BBC.

It was proposed by Mr. Hall, seconded by Mr. Bennett, that £2,000 will be spent on Fireworks this year. All agreed.

PLANNING COMMITTEE 

A meeting of the Planning Committee had taken place on 8 May, 2007, attended by Mr. Marr, Chairman, Mr. Dean, Mrs. Town, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Stran. Apologies from Mrs. Thomas and Mr. Brown.

2162. PLANS

Plans received and considered at the Planning Meeting were discussed.

Notice of Appeal had been received in respect of Martinique, Hay Green Lane - Single Storey Side Extension and garage at front of property. The Parish Council had not objection to the application.

Mr. Marr had reported that the Planning Committee had discussed the request made for the development of the site adjacent to Swan House. The Committee consider that the proposal would amount to an over-development of this important site in the middle of the Blackmore Conservation Area and would have a detrimental effect on the street scene facing The Green generally. Additional traffic would be generated at the cross-roads junction which should be avoided. The existing garden would also be reduced to an inappropriate size, to the detriment of Swan House and the site as a whole. Meeting agreed that a letter on these lines should be sent to the owner, Mr. Manders.

2163. OUTSTANDING ENFORCEMENT ISSUES 

Plots 1, 2 & 3 - Chelmsford Road - Nothing to report.
Bluebell Farm - Spriggs Lane - Nothing to report
Coachman Cottage - Mrs. Henwood reported that Ann Oldes, Planning Officer, had advised that she would be dealing with this, she will contact her further to see if any progress has been made.

ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

A Meeting of the Environment Committee had taken place on 10 May, 2007, attended by Mrs. Town (Chairman), Mrs. Smith and Mr. Lennon.

Apologies - Mr. Dean and Mrs. Thomas. 

2164. DRAINS CLEARANCE & ROAD SWEEPING 

Monitor.

2165. VILLAGE SPEED

Awaiting installation of speed strips by Police.

2166. ALLOTMENTS 

Looking for suitable field.

2167. MOPED RIDERS

Registration numbers given to PCSO Susan Payne. Trouble with cars driven by youths in Blackmore - registration numbers passed to PCSO Payne.

2168. PARKING - BLACKMORE VILLAGE

Cars still being parked on pavement outside Brownlea, The Green and on junction of Blacksmith's Alley - Committee request double yellow lines for 15 ft on junction. Agreed Clerk should write to BBC.

2169. “ CATS EYES” 

Still not done - Clerk had chased.

2170. VEHICLE ACTIVATED SIGNS

No funding available.

2171. VANDALISM

Bridge - Green Lane - Clerk had written.

2172. PONDS

Terry Smith and Hazel Town had met with individual companies, both had asked that we find farmer to take silt this will reduce the cost.

Mrs. Town reported that she had spoken to Mr. Gaymer who farms the land opposite the Ponds - unfortunately a large silt deposit would have to be left for a year before it could be used on farmland - he would like to help us and is looking into the matter.

2173. SIGNPOSTS

Most signpost have been done. Mr. Keeble said that the road name plates are very old and in need of either replacement or cleaning - Clerk to take up with BBC.

2174. YELLOW LINES - CHURCH STREET 

Still no answer from BBC - Committee ask who owns the land.

Clerk reported that we did contact the Land Registry sometime ago with regard to this land. The land is not registered to anyone - Church did consider claiming the land but did not have the finance to incorporate it into the churchyard.

Clerk will ring Chris Brimley at BBC who if the Officer who has failed to answer our letters on the subject.

2175. GUNNELL'S CORNER

Still not done. Clerk had chased again.

2176. PLANTERS ETC

Parishioner had offered to sponsor mini roudabout garden - Mr. Potter had been asked to go ahead with agreed work.

Mrs. Town proposed that the budget for other plants this year would be £350.00, seconded by Mrs. Smith - All agreed. Clerk to instruct Mr. Potter.

2177. POST - BULL ALLEY

Mr. Potter dealing.

2178. SOAP HOUSE CORNER

Mr. Potter dealing.

2179. DUCKS CROSSING SIGN

Damage assessed - Mr. & Mrs. Town to repair.

2180. VILLAGE GREEN

Mr. Sharp has agreed to fill in hole when it has dried out.

2181. VERGES - MEADOW RISE

BBC do not wish to put more ports on verges - will monitor, put in more if necessary.

2182. NOTICEBOARDS

Mr. Potter to refurbish all noticeboards etc.

2183. SERVICE LANE - TREE WORK

Nothing to report.

2184. BEND - HOOK END ROAD

Done - delete.

2185. HORSEFAYRE GREEN

Mr. Potter asked to treat seats, planters etc.

2186. SERVICE LANE

Dog Warden asked to erect notices.

2187. DEAL TREE CORNER FOOTPATH

Weedkilling to footpath done.

2188. ST. LAWRENCE GARDENS

Complaint that car with red bull painted on side doing fast circles of St. Lawrence Gardens cul-de-sac. Parking of van also causing obstruction. Has been reported PCSO Susan Payne.

2189. BLACKMORE ROAD/COPYHOLD FARM

Hole which was repaired about 6 months ago appearing again. Bad holes also at Gunnells Corner. Clerk to report to Highways.

2190. TREES- VILLAGE GREEN AREA

Tree on edge of pond needs trimming - Committee request that Mr. Sharp is asked to deal with - Mrs. Town to meet on site.

Horse Chestnut on corner of Village Green has a dead branch - Mr. Sharp to deal with this also.

2191. PARKING - SCHOOL

It appears that parents are still parking outside school when collecting their children. Why are they not using the side exit and Village Hall Car Park?

Clerk to write to Head Teacher, Mrs. Henwood will also bring up at Governors meeting.

HERALD MAGAZINE

2192. NEXT EDITION

June edition about to be delivered to distributors.

RECREATION COMMITTEE

A meeting of the Recreation Committee had taken place on

8 May, 2007, attended by Mr. Hall, Chairman, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Dean, Mrs. Stran, Mr. Lennon, and Mr. Keeble. Apologies: Nil. The Minutes of the Meeting are as follows together with the comments of this Meeting.

2193. TED MARRIAGE RECREATION FIELD

Hedges - Quote from Town & Country Landscapes accepted - work to commence after nesting season.
Main Gates - Work completed. Delete.
Spring Animal - Sprayed with paint - Still awaiting action by Mr. Potter.
Play Area Fence - Still awaiting report from Mr. Potter as to what work is required. Clerk reported that this had now been received - will be discussed at Recreation Meeting.
Fence - Play Area - Broken spar at back of Play Area (by double gates). Clerk to instruct Mr. Potter.

2194. MILL LANE PLAY AREA

Matta Surface - Play Area - Mr. Potter has done the best he can to improve the problem here. However, the recent risk assessment had not identified a problem.
Foot Brushes - Brushes need replacing - Clerk had instructed Mr. Potter to replace. (Require 2 new brushes).

2195. WALTER HOBBS RECREATION FIELD

Football Pitches - Plans for longer term - Grant from ECC applied for. Grant from Football Association applied for.
Hexagonal Swing Area - Done.
Graffiti - Parish Council sign cleaned. Aerial runway - Mr. Keeble will attend to.
Foot Brushes - Brushes need replacing - Clerk had instructed Mr. Potter (require 4 brushes).
Spring Bike - Seat delaminating - Committee will inspect.

2196. PLAY AREA INSPECTION (RISK ASSESSMENT)

Report received - Committee will inspect all sites - Meeting on 6.6.07 at 6.45pm - TMRF.

2197. LITTER BINS

Resolved. 

2198. TIPPS CROSS REMEMBRANCE HALL

Nothing to report.

 

CLERK'S REPORT 

2199. COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Planning 4.6.07 3.30pm 60 Orchard Piece
Recreation 11.6.07 7.00pm Tipps Cross R. Hall
Environment 12.6.07 7.30pm Crossehouse
Millennium Park 13.6.07 7pm BVHall
P & R 19.6.07 7pm Tipps Cross R. Hall

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

2200. RURAL POST OFFICES

Mrs. Thomas was concerned to hear that again the rural post offices are under threat of closure. Mr. Hall asked Mrs. Henwood if she could write a letter to the Post Master General on this matter. Agreed Clerk would write letter expressing our concern.

 

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