PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs P. Bailey, A. Brown, P. Harriman, and D. Massie,
Staffs Borough Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland, two members of the public and the
Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Parish Concillor, Mr S.Moore, Staffs Borough Councillor, Mr
S.Leighton and Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.Winnington.
MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those
present and were duly signed by the Chairman, Mr P.Harriman.
MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk had been in contact with Penny McKnight, Senior Conservation Officer
from Stafford Borough Council, regarding a meeting to progress the review of the
Conservation Area Document. Unfortunately, Ms McKnight will be leaving Stafford
Borough Council in January of 2016 to take up a new position. Ms Knight
suggested either meeting before she leaves or meeting with her successor. After
discussion it was agreed the Parish Council would resume the review once the new
Conservation Officer was appointed however a meeting prior to this between the
Clerk and Councillors involved in the review would take place. This was to be
arranged at the January Parish Council meeting.
The Clerk confirmed that following the request made at the last meeting, a letter had been forwarded to farmers and contractors in the Marston area highlighting concerns over the high levels of mud on the roads and erosion of verges including the Marston triangle. Borough Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland advised that if this was not happening on a regular basis then Streetscene may be able to help with brushing of the roads. The Chairman, Mr P.Harriman thanked Mr Sutherland for the contact advice and would look into this. It was noted however, that these problems with the Marston roads were ongoing and in some places there were no verges to assist with any road sweeping.
Mr Sutherland also reported that Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.Winnington had sent a message stating that he would be in touch shortly concerning arrangements for the proposed inspection of the Parish roads with Mark Keeling, Community Highways Liaison Officer and a Parish Councillor.
LATE ITEMS
There were no late items.
OPEN FORUM:
This was not required on this occasion.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
The Clerk had forwarded a number of Neighbourhood
Watch bulletins relating to national scams. The Clerk had also again contacted
the police to request a representative at this meeting. No response had been
received and no one was in attendance. Councillor Mr A.Brown suggested writing
to the Chief Inspector. The Council decided that the Clerk should raise this
issue again with the person who had been dealing with this enquiry but if this
did not elicit a response, a letter as suggested by Councillor Brown should be
sent.
VILLAGE PLAYGROUND:
Mrs S.Dodd returned the inspection book and had found the playground to be in
a satisfactory condition. Mr P.Harriman took the book for the forthcoming month.
The Clerk had forwarded the Chairman copies of the quarterly inspection forms to
assist with the quarterly inspection as requested at the last meeting.
Mrs K.Reeves reported that the commemorative tree had now been planted in the playground. Mr Houghton had sent the Clerk an email asking her to pass on his thanks for both the tree and watch which recognised his longstanding service on the Parish Council.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had received notification that the application for the conversion of
an agricultural building into a single bed roomed dwelling on land adjacent to
Paradise Cottage had been withdrawn from the planning system.
HEART DEFIBRILLATOR
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland felt that he might have some monies
available from his mayoral year which could start a fund to finance the
installation of a defibrillator for the Parish. The Clerk suggested that the
Parish Council could also earmark some money for this project and look at
obtaining further sponsorship. The Clerk had obtained some information about
installing the apparatus and what was becoming clear was the need to identify a
location, an electrical supply and volunteers who would be prepared to use the
apparatus. The Chairman was to update local supporters for this project namely
Mrs Dawn Jones and Mrs Bea Byford. It was agreed to further discuss this
matter at the next meeting.
REQUEST FOR A WAR MEMORIAL:
Mr Jerry Jones was in attendance to discuss his request made at the last meeting
concerning the installation of a war memorial. This matter was discussed in some
detail resulting in the following action.
It was agreed that the Parish Council would
in principal support this project with further information supplied by Mr Jones.
Mr Jones is to oversee the creation of a steering committee, to be potentially
chaired by Mr Trevor Houghton, with Mr Ralph Howarth offering to support the
committee. Parish Councillor Mr A.Brown would be also on the committee as a
representative for the Parish Council. It was also agreed that the steering
committee should look to oversee funding for the project. This matter would be
added to the January meeting to progress.
HIGHWAYS:
The Clerk had, as requested at the last meeting, obtained further information
regarding the Staffs County Council ‘Ice Busters’ programme. Following receipt
of information regarding this matter the Parish Council decided on potential
concerns regarding health and safety grounds not to participate.
Concerns were expressed over the condition of the finger post located on the Gnosall Road which was ‘leaning’
due to a split in it’s base. The Chairman agreed to inspect this and report at
the next meeting. Councillor Brown reported that there seemed to be an
abandoned finger post at Longnor Gorse.
VILLAGE TROUGHS:
Mrs Reeves reported that Councillor Massie had returned the
bulbs from previously planted troughs. Repairs to several troughs were required
and it was agreed that these would be inspected and where needed repairs would
be carried out.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received several invoices to be paid namely, the Village Institute
who had invoiced the Parish Council for the hire of the hall for December’s
meeting amounting to £20.00. The Clerk had at the meeting received an invoice
from Mrs K Reeves relating to the tree planting for the recognition of Mr
Houghton amounting to £15.28 and Mr P.Harriman regarding Marston troughs
amounting to £35.00. These were proposed for payment by Mrs S.Dodd and seconded
by Mr P Bailey. All were in favour.
It was also acknowledged that Mr Granville Reeves had been able to obtain a Christmas tree to be cited at the Village Institute free of charge. This news was very warmly received and thanks were expressed to Mr Reeves.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council plus an
invitation to the Borough Carol service. Mrs S.Dodd queried the absence of an
invitation to this year’s gala performance of the Borough Pantomime. The Clerk
had not received an invitation but Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland
asked Mrs Dodd to contact Mrs B.Potts, the Borough’s Chief Executives Secretary,
who would be able to help. The Clerk also supplied information regarding the
outcome of the recent travelling library consultation.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the next
meeting of the Parish Council would be held on the 5th January 2016 at 7.30pm in the
Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 8.50pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs A.Brown, P.Harriman, D.Massie and S.Moore,
Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.Winnington, Conservation Officer for S.B.Council,
Ms Penny McKnight, four members of the public and the Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Parish Councillor Mr P.Bailey and Staffs Borough Councillor,
Mr R.Sutherland.
MINUTES:
There was some discussion as to whether the spelling of the surname of
Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Mandy Corser was correct. Minutes were then
deemed as a true record by those present and were duly signed by the Chairman,
Mr P.Harriman.
MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk had contacted the West Midlands Ambulance Service following the
concern over emergency ambulance routes raised by former Parish Council
Chairman, Mr T.Houghton. The Clerk had received an email by way of a reply
stating that the service would be reviewing this matter.
LATE ITEMS
There were no late items.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr Tony Lendon expressed concerns over the poor state
of the roads in Marston, especially the high levels of mud and the continual
erosion of the triangle by farm machinery and other heavy traffic. Mr J. Jones
approached the Council about the possibility of erecting a war memorial within
the parish. After some discussion, it was agreed to add this request to the
agenda for the meeting in December.
CONSERVATION AREA DOCUMENT REVIEW
Stafford Borough Council’s Senior Conservation Officer, Ms P.McKnight was in
attendance to discuss progressing the Conservation Area document the review of
which had begun last year. The Clerk had sent the draft review plus photographs
to accompany the new document to Ms McKnight who was happy with the content so
far. It was agreed to complete this review over the next few months. To this
end it was agreed that the Clerk and Councillor A.Brown would meet with Ms
McKnight to take this matter forward. The Clerk suggested that Councillor
Bailey might like to be involved in this and in his absence would email him
regarding this meeting. The Clerk, at the suggestion of Ms McKnight, is in the
interim to look at Hilderstone’s Conservation area document for possible
guidance as to layout and content.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
The Clerk was still waiting to hear from a local PCSO
to attend a meeting to discuss concerns over local policing matters. The Clerk
was to again contact the local police.
VILLAGE PLAYGROUND:
Mr A.Brown returned the inspection book and had found the playground to be in
satisfactory condition other than a small amount of litter. Mrs S.Dodd took the
book for the forthcoming month. The Chairman reported that the proposed works
regarding the rocking horse were now completed. Councillor S.Moore was to look
after the spare parts. Miss J.Bennett was thanked for providing much needed
refreshments. The Clerk was to forward the Chairman copies of the quarterly
inspection forms as an inspection was required to be carried out.
Mrs K.Reeves reported that the tree and plaque to recognise the work of former Chairman Mr Trevor Houghton, was to be planted during the following weekend. The generous collection money had covered this with the remainder being used to purchase a watch for Trevor.
TREE FELLING BY THE CANAL:
Mrs K.Reeves had been contacted by a local resident with concerns over tree
felling in the area of bridges 22 and 24. Mrs Reeves had ascertained that a
felling licence had been obtained.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had received several planning applications which had been forwarded
to members of the Parish Council. These were for a proposed new dwelling on land
on the Lapley Road for an agricultural/rural worker, and a new double garage at
the property known as Waltonfields. There were no objections made to these
applications. A more recent application for the conversion of an agricultural
building into a single bedroomed dwelling on land adjacent to Paradise Cottage
was incomplete as the proposed elevation drawing missing. The Clerk was asked
to request the missing documentation along with an extension of time for the
Council to consider this application more fully.
The recent planning application for the redevelopment of Wood Eaton Manor was also discussed. Councillor Andy Brown read out objections from several local residents and declared an interest as did Councillor David Massie who is a neighbour to the proposed development. The remaining Councillors voted and were all in favour to support the application.
The Clerk reported that the recent planning application for a new dwelling and garage on land to the north of St Editha’s Church had been refused planning consent.
HEART DEFIBRILLATOR
The Clerk had obtained information regarding obtaining a heart defibrillator for
the Parish. Local support for this project had been offered from Mrs Dawn Jones
and Mrs Bea Byford. It was agreed to further discuss this matter at the next
meeting and to try and come up with a firm strategy to raise funds to obtain and
install a defibrillator.
HIGHWAYS:
As discussed at the last meeting,
Staffs County Councillor Mr Mark Winnington, Mr Mark Keeling Community Highway
Liaison Officer and a member of the Parish Council will be inspecting the Parish
roads, especially those in the Marston area, to look at any new or outstanding
highways matters. This visit has yet to be arranged. The Clerk had forwarded
to the Highway’s Neighbourhood Teams a list of works for their planned visit in
November.
VILLAGE TROUGHS:
Replanting the troughs was discussed. The summer bedding plants
had provided a good display but some of the troughs needed maintenance work and
bulbs needed to planted for the spring. Mrs Reeves is to liaise with the
Chairman over the trough repairs. Mrs Reeves had also obtained from the Byford
Family a list of who has in the past cared and watered the troughs. There will
be an update regarding the troughs at the next meeting.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received a way leave cheque from Western Power amounting to £2.50.
The Village Institute had invoiced the Parish Council for the hire of the hall for November’s meeting amounting to £20.00. The Clerk had received an invoice from Stafford Borough Council regarding the second Civic amenities visit for £75.00. The Clerk presented an invoice for £20 to cover this year’s gardening vouchers for the hanging baskets and tubs competition. These were proposed for payment by Mr P.Harriman and seconded by Mrs K.Reeves. All were in favour.
Also approved was the previously discussed payment of £250 towards the lighting and insulation project at the Village Institute. The Clerk had looked through the budget up until March 2016 and given that a contractor had not been involved to refurbish the rocking horse, this had freed up enough funds to cover the Institute donation. This was proposed by Mr P.Harriman and seconded by Mr S.Moore. All were in favour. Mrs K.Reeves declared an interest.
It was also agreed that a maximum amount of £50 be allocated for the purchase of the village Christmas tree.
The Clerk had been into the bank to progress the addition of the Chairman to the bank mandate and had been given more forms to be filled in. The Clerk with the approval of the Council obtained Mr Harriman’s signature and Mrs Dodd’s as an existing signatory. The Clerk is to take these forms back to the bank. The Clerk confirmed that the Clerk’s change of address had been carried out.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council. Staffs
County Council had forwarded details of their ‘Ice Busters’ project. Mr A.Brown
was keen to discuss this but it was agreed to add this to the next agenda.
Details of Gnosall Parish Council’s Village Plan had been received as the recent
Parish Forum notes.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the next meeting of the
Parish Council would be held on the 1st December at 7.30pm in the
Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.45pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs P.Bailey, Mr A.Brown, Mr P.Harriman, Mr
D.Massie and Mr S.Moore, three members of the public and the Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr S.Leighton, Stafford Borough
Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland and Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.Winnington.
MINUTES:
There were deemed as a true record by those present, and were then duly signed
by the Chairman, Mr P.Harriman.
MATTERS ARISING:
Any matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.
LATE ITEMS
The Chairman reported that another Highways
Neighbourhood Team visit was due in November. The Clerk had also received an
email from Mr Simon Griffiths, Community Highways Liaison Officer who had
requested a list of jobs which the Council would like carrying out.
These were to be notified by the 16th October. Several
suggestions were made such as cleaning along the kerbside gullies and drains
along the High Street. The gulley at Apeton which was missed last time was also
to be included. It was agreed to notify the Clerk before the 16th October of any more
requests.
The Chairman suggested that the Parish Council should look at obtaining a heart de-fibrillator for the Parish. It was agreed to add this to the agenda for the November meeting and the Clerk offered to provide some information regarding this for the next meeting.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr John Green commented on the recent planning
application to build a house and garage on land to the rear of St Editha’s
church. Mr Green and several other local residents had written letters of
objection to the Borough Council Planning Department and the Clerk had received
copies of all of these. The Chairman had spoken with the Tree Preservation
Officer to ascertain the impact on the current landscaping, should the proposal
go ahead given the concerns over the proposed pruning of the yew trees on the
southern boundary. The Chairman also stated that while there had been several
objectors there was a letter of support from the Diocese. This application was
to be discussed in detail under agenda item, planning.
Mr John Green was asked whether he could assist with the refurbishment of the playground rocking horse following his previous involvement with the horse. It was agreed that Mr Green and Councillors, Mr P.Bailey, Mr S.Moore and the Chairman would meet on Thursday 8th October to carry out the necessary works.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
WATCH:
The recent break in
at Malt Shovel Farm was reported by Miss J.Bennett. A white transit van was
seen in the area at the time of the Malt Shovel Farm break in. The police had
been involved but there had been no email alerts from Neighbourhood Watch
regarding this matter or indeed the break in at the Glebelands Sports Pavillion.
The Clerk had contacted local co-ordinator Mandy Corser about this but Mandy
confirmed that she was sending the information she received. It was agreed to
take this up with Neighbourhood Watch Manager, Ash Connor. Councillor D. Massie
reported on another matter allegedly involving a red Vauxhall Astra registration
number NV56 6RK.
The Clerk had contacted the local police requesting a presence at this meeting but was still waiting for a representative to contact her.
VILLAGE
PLAYGROUND:
The playground inspection book was
returned by Mr P.Bailey and taken for the forthcoming month by Mr A.Brown.
Councillor S.Moore confirmed that he had re-fixed the sign to the post by the
entrance
PLANNING:
The Parish Council discussed at length the recent
planning application to build a house and garage on land to the rear of St
Editha’s church. Parish Councillor, Mr A.Brown declared an interest in this
matter due to his property being adjacent to the proposed site. Following some
discussion the Parish Council were unanimous in objecting to the proposal on the
following grounds.
There was concern over the proposed siting of the house and garage adjacent to St Editha's church - a listed building. It was considered that should this development go ahead it would havea detrimental impact on this unique street scene, encroaching upon the visual effect of the church.It was also felt that the overall design of the dwelling was poor and not at all sympathetic to its location.
There were serious concerns over the landscaping proposals specifically,the plans reference to include 'the lopping' of one of the yew trees and the removal hedgerow. The Parish Council also shared concerns with local residents over the proposed access to the dwelling being located on a narrow lane near to a blind, dangerous, bend.Given the previous history oftwo unsuccessful applications for this site, it was felt that this application should be refused as the reasons for the previous refusals were still valid.
The Clerk had also received the anticipated planning application for the redevelopment of Wood Eaton Manor. It was put into circulation and the Clerk was asked to request an extension of time given the sheer volume of the application.
VILLAGE TROUGHS:
Mrs K.Reeves reported on plans to plant
up the troughs for the winter months. Mr D.Massie confirmed that he was storing
the bulbs for the village troughs. The troughs in Marston still contained their
bulbs. Trough repairs were discussed. The Clerk suggested that other
‘containers’ such as tractor tyres might be considered as they would be more
durable. She was asked to look into this matter for a future meeting.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received an invoice from the Village Institute for the hire of the
institute for the last two meetings amounting to £40.00. This payment was
proposed by Mrs S.Dodd and seconded by Mr P.Bailey. All were in favour.
The Clerk had received the conclusion of this year’s audit. The relevant notice had been displayed for the prescribed time on the village notice board.
A further request for help with the ongoing refurbishment of the Village Institute had been received by the Chairman from Justin O’Doherty. As agreed previously, the Parish Council had, following Justin’s original request, promised to look at making a further donation subject to available funds. The Clerk was asked to review the current budget and inform the Council if a further donation of £250 would be possible. Mrs K.Reeves declared an interest in this matter. The Clerk confirmed receipt of the second half of the annual precept and concurrent functions allowance.
Mr A.Brown proposed that in
future financial requests should be made in person at a Parish Council meeting.
This was seconded by Mr P.Bailey. All were in favour.
HIGHWAYS:
The Clerk had contacted Staffs County
Councillor,Mr Mark Winnington, regarding the proposed inspection of the Parish roads
especially in the Marston area, with Mr Mark Keeling Community Highway Liaison
Officer and a member of the Parish Council and was still awaiting a reply.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a copy of the Borough Members Digest. Concerns had been
raised by email from Mr Trevor Houghton after
a Parishioner collapsed
in St Editha’s and paramedics were called. The route taken by the ambulance to
and from the Village followed satellite navigation instructions and was via the
Bradley Lane, Alstone Lane and the Bradley/Haughton Lane to the A518. Mr
Houghton pointed out that this had happened on several previous occasions and
considered it a potentially life threatening procedure. He requested that the
ambulance service be informed of this and request that a more efficient route is
taken in the future. The Clerk had received information from Stafford Borough
Councillor, Mr Ray Sutherland to contact Stafford Care Commissioning Group over
this matter.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the
Parish Council would next meet on Tuesday the 3rd November at 7.30pm
in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 9.15pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves, Messrs P. Bailey and S. Moore, Stafford Borough
Councillors, Mr R. Sutherland, Staffs County Councillor Mr M. Winnington, Mr
Trevor Houghton and the Clerk, Mrs D. M. Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Councillor Mr P. Harriman and Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr
S. Leighton.
DECLARATION OF
OFFICE:
Andrew Brown who was
co-opted on to the Parish Council at the August meeting formally signed the
declaration of office ledger and signed up to the Model Code of Conduct.
The Clerk also provided Andrew with the register of pecuniary interests form and
asked him to send this, once completed, directly to the Borough Council Election
Office.
PRESENTATION ~
MR TREVOR HOUGHTON
Former
Parish Council Chairman, Mr Trevor Houghton was thanked by Vice Chairman,
Mrs Sheila Dodd, for all his hard work and service to the Council as both a
Councillor, and for the last 16 years, as Chairman. Following these words
of thanks, and in recognition of Trevor’s time on the Council, Mrs Dodd
presented Trevor with an inscribed plaque mounted on an oak board. This plaque
will be sited next to a tree which is to be planted in the village play park
during the autumn.
MINUTES:
There was one minor typographical amendment made to the Minutes which were then
deemed as a true record by those present, and were then duly signed by the Vice
Chairman, Mrs S. Dodd.
MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk confirmed that she had, at the suggestion of Stafford Borough
Councillor Mr R. Sutherland, contacted Church Warden, Mr R. Howarth regarding
applying to the Police and Crime Commissioners ‘s fund for help in replacing
grass cutting equipment recently stolen from the church yard.
LATE ITEMS:
There were no late items, although Mrs S. Dodd
asked whether there had been any progress following the recent discussion on the
adoption of BT kiosks within the Parish. The Clerk reported that Mr P.
Harriman was still waiting to hear from BT over this matter.
OPEN FORUM:
Stafford Borough Councillor Mr R. Sutherland reported
that he, along with Councillor Mr S. Moore, had driven around the Marston area
but any matters noted were in the remit of Staffs County Council’s Highways
Division. It was further agreed that another inspection should take place but on
that occasion with Staffs County Councillor, Mr M. Winnington, Mr Mark Keeling,
Staffs County Council’s Community Highway Liaison Officer and a member of the
Parish Council. Arrangements for this were discussed.
Other highways matters were discussed including the poor condition of the kerbing outside the school and blocked drains at Apeton and adjacent to the Old Rectory.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
WATCH:
The recent break in
at the Glebelands Sports Pavillion was discussed. It appears that the
interior of the building was badly vandalised. It was requested that if
any one had any information concerning this matter they should contact the local
police by telephoning 101 or contact the Parish Council. The Clerk was
asked to invite a member of the local police to the next meeting.
VILLAGE
PLAYGROUND:
The Clerk had informed CERS about the
missing grip handle from the two man rowing machine. The playground inspection
book was returned by Mrs K. Reeves who noted that some litter was present and
that the sign by the entrance needed re-securing. The inspection book was taken
for the forthcoming month by Councillor Paul Bailey. The Clerk reminded
the Council that the quarterly inspection implemented following the Wicksteed
inspection of the play ground was due.
The Clerk reported she had received, from G L Jones, the new parts for the refurbishment of the rocking horse. These were given to Councillor Moore.
Mr John Green had been approached as to whether he would be willing to help with this matter.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had forwarded an email to the planning
department that there had been no objections made to the proposed earth banked
slurry lagoon at Manor Farm, Marston.
STAFFS COUNTY
COUNCIL MEMBERS SOCIAL CLUB:
Mr S. Moore reported to the meeting that Parish Councillors could
become associate members of the Staffs County Council’s social club in Eastgate
Street, Stafford.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received an invoice from G L Jones for the parts needed to
refurbish the rocking horse amounting to £338. 95. This payment was proposed by
Mrs S. Dodd and seconded by Mr P. Bailey. All were in favour.
The Clerk had received an updated policy renewal from Zurich amounting to £551. 09. There had been no further response from AON to provide a quotation. It was therefore agreed to renew with Zurich but not to accept their terms to commit to a three year agreement. This was proposed by Mrs K. Reeves and seconded by Mr S. Moore. All were in favour. The Clerk had received an acknowledgement from the Village Institute for the recent financial donation. Two cheques were signed for the Clerk’s forthcoming quarterly payment and tax liability.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a copy of the Members Digest and an invitation to the
forthcoming Parish Forum to be held on the 24th September.
Councillor Mr A. Brown offered to attend. The Clerk had received an email from
Penny McKnight, Stafford Borough Council’s Conservation Officer with regards to
continuing the review of the Church Eaton Conservation Area document.
Arrangements were being made to progress this matter.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the
Parish Council would next meet on Tuesday the 6th October at 7.30pm
in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 8.45pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs P.Bailey, P.Harriman, and S.Moore, Stafford
Borough Councillors, Mr R.Sutherland and Mr S.Leighton, one member of the public
and the Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Councillor, Mr D.Massie.
MINUTES:
There was one amendment to the Minutes regarding the quotation from G L Jones
which should have read £315.32 plus VAT instead of £621.79 plus VAT.
The Minutes were then deemed as a true record by those present and were then duly signed by the
Chairman, Mr P.Harriman.
MATTERS ARISING:
Mrs K.Reeves reported on the recent CERS village festival and that the money
raised had been divided in various amounts between the Church, Cricket Club,
Village Institute, School and First Responders. All other matters arising would
be taken up during the meeting as per the agenda.
LATE ITEMS:
There was one late item, a financial request from
Mr J. O’Doherty regarding
the proposed lighting and insulation improvements at the Village Institute.
While the Clerk had prepared a budget running from July 21st 2015 to
1st October 2015, due to other committed expenditure, funds were
quite tight, certainly until receipt of the second SBC precept payment which
would be received in October. However it was agreed that the Parish Council
would make an initial donation of £250 but look at making a further donation
later on. This was proposed by Mr P. Harriman and seconded by Mr S.Moore. All
were in favour. Mrs K.Reeves declared an interest in this matter and did not
vote.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr A.Brown reported that the bench in the churchyard
had now been restored and that a plaque was to be placed on the bench stating
that the Parish Council had funded the restoration.
Borough Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland reported that he had been driving around the Parish with a representative from the Borough Council’s Streetscene. Any concerns that were noted were deemed as County Highways responsibilities. A visit to Marston or more specifically Birchmoor Lane, at Mrs Dodd’s request, was scheduled for the forthcoming Thursday. Mr Sutherland expressed concern over speeding traffic, down narrow lanes, having encountered a motorist driving at high speed.
During Open Forum, Mr Sutherland also suggested that the church might like to consider making an approach to Matthew Ellis, the Police and Crime Commissioner, over the recent theft of grass cutting equipment from the church yard. Mr Sutherland though that some funding might be available to help alleviate the continual drain on resources these thefts were having. The Clerk is to contact Church Warden, Mr Ralph Howarth.
CASUAL VACANCY
FOR PARISH COUNCILLOR:
The Clerk had contacted
the Borough Elections office regarding the current vacancy. This vacancy had
arisen following the uncontested Parish elections held in May where six out of
the seven posts for Parish Councillors were filled. The Clerk confirmed that a
notice advertising the vacancy had been displayed for the prescribed time. The
Elections Office stated that there had been no requests made and therefore no
election called for. Mr Andy Brown had shown interest in filling the current
vacancy. Mr P.Harriman proposed Mr Brown should be co-opted on to the Council.
This was seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in favour. The Parish Council were
therefore pleased to co-opt on to the Council, Mr Andy Brown. Mr Brown was duly
asked to join the Council for the continuation of the meeting.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
WATCH:
The Clerk had
forwarded a recent bulletin regarding an alarm company which is targeting the
Stafford Area by telephone cold calling trying to sell house alarms. They
mention that the police do not attend house alarms to try and scare residents
into buying from them. The Police have warned against buying from this type of
company and to contact them immediately on 101 to report the call.
VILLAGE
PLAYGROUND:
The Clerk had ordered the parts for
the rocking horse from G L Jones. Mr S.Moore returned the inspection book
having noted a small amount of litter and that a grip handle was missing from
the two man rowing machine. The Clerk was asked to contact CERS about this
matter through Mrs Dawn Jones.
The playground inspection book was taken for the forthcoming month by Councillor Mrs K.Reeves.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had received one planning application
since the last meeting for an earth banked slurry lagoon at Manor Farm, Marston.
The Parish Council were to circulate the plans amongst themselves to consider.
The Clerk had also received notification that the recent planning application to
convert the Polish Camp into eight dwellings had been withdrawn from the
planning system.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received an invoice from G L Jones for the site visit to inspect
the rocking horse amounting to £191.56; John Hall had submitted an invoice
amounting to £90 for grass cutting. There was a civic amenities invoice for £75
and £20 invoice for hire of the institute. These payments were proposed by Mrs K.Reeves and seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in favour.
The Clerk had also received quotation from Zurich for the forthcoming insurance renewal amounting to £551.09 which was a slight increase on last year’s premium.
The Clerk had also contacted AON to see if they could provide a quotation which they had agreed to do. It was agreed to confirm the purchase of insurance at the September meeting. The Clerk had received no news concerning the recent audit.
BEST KEPT
VILLAGE COMPETITION:
Former Chairman, Mr Trevor
Houghton had attended the recent Best Kept Village competition awards on August
the 3rd where Church Eaton received a highly commended certificate.
Also taking place was the annual judging of the village hanging baskets and tubs competition which was judged this year by Alice Stamp. Alice’s final selection were in First Place - Cherry Tree Cottage, High Street with joint Runner Ups being Keswick Cottage and Number 7 Parkers Close
Highly Commended were 2 Ashley Croft and Willow Cottage.
The winner and joint runner
ups will each receive national gardening vouchers. The Clerk was to attend to
this as usual. The Clerk was also to formally thank Alice for judging this
year’s competition.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a copy of the Members Digest and an invitation to the
service to commemorate the Battle of Britain from the Borough Council. Mr
A.Brown said he would go and the Clerk was to send a reply card to this effect.
Walkwise had sent some promotional material.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the
Parish Council would next meet on Tuesday the 1st September at 7.30pm
in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 9.00pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves, Messrs P. Bailey, P. Harriman, D. Massie and S.
Moore, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr R. Sutherland, Staffs County Councillor,
Mr M. Winnington, Andrew Aroll, Lord Newport, eleven members of the public and
the Clerk, Mrs D.M. Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr S. Leighton.
MINUTES:
There was one amendment to the Minutes regarding the site meeting with
representatives from GL Jones to inspect the rocking horse. The Clerk had
recorded Mr S. Moore being present which should have read Mr P. Bailey. The
Minutes were then deemed as a true record by those present and were then duly
signed by the Chairman, Mr P. Harriman.
MATTERS ARISING:
These were to be taken up during the meeting as per the agenda.
PRESENTATION BY THE BRADFORD ESTATES:
Lord Newport and architect Mr Andrew Aroll gave a power point presentation
regarding proposals to re-develop Wood Eaton Manor and landscaping of the
grounds. The presentation included a history of the Manor and grounds, and plans
to recreate a substantial country house which retained the model farm buildings
along with further plans to reinstate the pleasure gardens and pool and the
development of a sustainable timber business.
It was anticipated that these works would take place over several years.
This was followed by a question and answer session. Chairman, Mr P. Harriman then thanked Lord Newport and Andrew Aroll for their attendance.
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr R. Sutherland introduced himself following the presentation to those present and stated that he would not be making any comments due to his role on the Borough Planning Committee.
LATE ITEMS:
There were no late items.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr T. Houghton reported that there had been a burst
water main in the Village which had been repaired quite quickly.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
The Clerk had again contacted Mandy Corser, local
Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator, to see if she could supply contact details and
information to be included in the Parish Welcome Pack. It was reported that once
again plants had been removed from the trough situated on Little Onn Road. It
was agreed that this trough should be moved in the autumn nearer to the Oaklands
to try and stop this happening.
VILLAGE PLAYGROUND:
With regards to the maintenance of the rocking horse, the Clerk had contacted
GL Jones and had obtained two quotes. The first for G L Jones to do all the work
which would be £1,085.46 including VAT. The second for just the parts to be
provided and the Parish Council to carry out the work was quoted at £621.79 plus
VAT. After some discussion it was agreed that the Clerk would order the
necessary parts and the Parish Council would undertake the work.
The playground inspection book was returned by Councillor D.Massie and was taken for the forthcoming month by Councillor Mr S.Moore.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had received one planning application since the last meeting. This
was for insert secondary glazing at Dolphin House, High Street, Church Eaton.
There were no objections made to this application.
HIGHWAYS:
Mr
Harriman informed the meeting that Chris Mitchell from County Highways was
leaving his current post and Mr Mark Keeling would be taking over. Also leaving
was Mr Sean Latham who had spearheaded the Neighbour Teams. His replacement
would be Mr Simon Griffiths. Mr Griffiths had invited a member from the Parish
Council to drive round the Parish to look at potential works which would fall
under the scope of the Neighbourhood Team. Mrs Reeves reported that the
requested work to dig out the gulley on the verge at Apeton had not been carried
during the last visit. The Clerk had sent an email to Mr Latham thanking him for
all his help and assistance in the past.
Staffs Councillor M.Winnington asked for an update on the recent works in the Marston area. The Church Eaton to Marston road was much improved however Birchmoor Lane was still in need of urgent repairs and improvements.
With regards to the triangle at Marston and erosion by heavy traffic, Chairman Mr P.Harriman had contacted the dairy S J Bargh about using an alternative route to collect milk from Manor Farm and had received a favourable response. Mr Harriman had also spoken with Mr Steve Cox, owner of Manor Farm. The suggestion of imposing weight limits was discussed. The Chairman had also emailed Chris Mitchell about the way forward for protecting the triangle plus alternatives to kerbing and costs.
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr R.Sutherland is to accompany a representative from Streetscene on a drive around the Parish and suggested that a representative from the Parish Council might like to join them. The Chairman felt this would be a good idea and Mr Sutherland is to arrange details for this to take place and advise accordingly.
ADOPTION OF TELEPHONE KIOSKS
The Chairman had contacted BT and had found out that the two Parish telephone
kiosks are available for adoption but had stressed that the Parish wished to
retain them with working telephones albeit for making emergency calls. A
representative from BT was however to contact the Chairman to clarify what the
actual position was given the local community would like to keep them in
service. The Clerk was to await more clarity on this matter before contacting
Derek Jones of Derrington Parish Council, who had in the past adopted a kiosk.
PARISH COUNCILLOR VACANCY:
The Clerk had contacted the Borough Elections Office who
had sent a specimen notice to advertise the current casual vacancy. They
advised that the vacancy needed to be advertised for fourteen days. If the
Borough received 10 or more requests from Parish electors then an election would
be held. If not the Parish Council could proceed with co-option. If this was
the case, Mr Andy Brown from Church Eaton showed interest in filling the
vacancy.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received an invoice from CEVI for the hire of the Institute in
June amounting to £20. It was agreed to pay Mrs Helen Bellamy £40 for carrying
out the internal audit of accounts for this year’s Grant Thornton Audit. This
was to be made out to the school PTA in lieu of Mrs Bellamy’s work. Mr Harriman
also submitted an invoice amounting to £40 for plants for the Marston troughs.
These payments were proposed by Mrs S.Dodd and seconded by Mrs K.Reeves. All
were in favour.
A request had been received for a financial contribution towards producing the Parish Magazine from church warden, Mr Ralph Howarth. Following discussion a £100 donation was proposed by Mrs S.Dodd and seconded by Mr S. Moore. All were in agreement. CERS had also requested a donation towards the insurance costs for the forthcoming village festival. It was agreed to donate £100. This was proposed by Mrs K.Reeves and seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in favour.
BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION:
The Clerk had arranged for the judges for this year’
hanging baskets and tubs competition to visit the village in July.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received information regarding smart stickers for wheelie bins
displaying e.g. local speed restrictions. While there was some uncertainty as
to their effectiveness the Clerk is to try and find out more about them for a
future meeting. The Clerk was to circulate information from Plantlife regarding
various surveys being carried out. An email regarding the current consultation
concerning plans to cut back on mobile library services was discussed. The
Borough Council’s Walkwise organisation had sent promotional material for future
events. Previous Parish Council Chairman, Mr T.Houghton was to attend this
year’s Best Kept Village competition presentation on August 3rd and
it was hoped that Mr Harriman might be able to attend as well.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the Parish Council would
meet in August, although in previous years the August meeting had been missed.
It was noted however that this would be a short meeting primarily to look at
filling the Parish Council vacancy and renewal of insurance. This meeting would
be held on the 4th August at 7.30pm in the Village Institute. The
meeting closed at 9.45pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves, Messrs P. Bailey, P. Harriman, D. Massie and S.
Moore, Stafford Borough Councillor Mr R. Sutherland, two members of the public
and the Clerk, Mrs D. M. Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Staffs County Councillor Mr M. Winnington and Stafford
Borough Councillor, Mr S. Leighton.
MINUTES:
The Minutes were deemed as a true record by those present and were then duly
signed by the Chairman, Mr P. Harriman.
MATTERS ARISING:
The current vacancy for a Parish Councillor was discussed and as a result the
Clerk was asked to contact the Borough Council elections office.
It was agreed that the vacancy should be widely advertised and, then if required, an election or co-option to take place.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr
A. Brown updated the Council on the progress of the recent refurbishment of the
church bench.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
Neighbourhood Watch local co-ordinator, Mandy Corser was in attendance and
updated the meeting as to contact details and general Neighbourhood Watch
information. The Clerk asked Mandy if she could supply contact details and
information to be included in the Parish Welcome Pack.
VILLAGE PLAYGROUND:
Two representatives from G L Jones Ltd had visited the rocking horse on the 4th
June and had found that the horse did need some maintenance work. Mr Harriman
and Mr Moore had met them on site and had been advised on how to dismantle the
rocking horse in order to carry out the required work. Some new parts would be
required which G L Jones could supply. The Clerk was asked to contact GL Jones
to obtain two quotes. One for G L Jones to do all the work and a second, for
the Parish Council to fit the new parts supplied from G L Jones.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had received one planning application since the last meeting. This
was for a two storey side extension to provide a ground floor garden room with
bedroom over along with a single storey rear extension to provide a kitchen and
family room at Japonica Cottage, Marston. There were no objections made to this
application. Mr Peter Harriman, who was the applicant, had declared an interest
in this matter prior to circulation.
Several Councillors and Stafford Borough Councillor Mr S. Leighton, had met with Viscount Newport and his architect at Wood Eaton Manor on the 26th May to look at proposals for landscaping the grounds and plans to re-develop the house. The Bradford Estates were planning to submit a planning application to this effect at a later date. Since the site meeting, the Bradford Estate’s manager, Carla Whelton had asked for a slot at next month’s Parish Council meeting for Viscount Newport and his architect to give a small presentation about these plans. The Parish Council were in agreement to this.
HIGHWAYS:
It
was reported that road conditions in Sweet Place Lane were improved. The
Chairman had sent an email to Chris Mitchell at County Highways about the
triangle at Marston and was awaiting a response. Large milk tankers using
Birchmoor Lane was discussed and suggestions were made about requesting that the
drivers avoid using Birchmoor Lane. Mr Harriman is to write to this effect to
the dairy who, have been in the past, very helpful.
Imposing a weight limit on Birchmoor Lane was also discussed. Mr Harriman offered to look into this matter.
ADOPTION OF TELEPHONE KIOSKS
:
The Clerk had received information from BT concerning local communities
adopting telephone kiosks. The Parish Council discussed this matter with a view
to being completely informed as to the implications of adoption should the two
Parish BT telephone kiosks be offered for adoption. It was however, strongly
felt, that given such poor telephone reception within the Parish, the Parish
Council would strongly argue to retain the boxes as working telephones. It was
agreed in the first instance to check whether the two Parish telephone kiosks
were on the list to be offered for adoption.
Stafford Borough Councillor Mr R. Sutherland gave the Clerk contact details for Derek Jones of Derrington Parish Council who had in the past adopted a kiosk.
SEVERN TRENTWATER AUTHORITY SURFACE WATER RUN OFF CHARGES
:
Former Parish Councillor, Mr C.Byford challenged Severn Trent Water Authority in
2012 over charges concerning surface water run off. Mr Byford had found out that
his property had soak- a -ways but that STWA were in fact charging for him
surface water run off when it was not entering the water drainage system.
The Parish Council discussed this matter and asked the Clerk to contact Mr Byford to see whether he would be happy for interested parties to contact him should they be concerned about paying unnecessary water charges.
FINANCE
:
The Clerk presented the accounts for the last financial year and the audit
return form was approved and was signed by the Chairman. This was proposed by
Mrs S. Dodd and seconded by Mr S. Moore. All were in agreement. It was
reported that Mrs Helen Bellamy had carried out an internal audit of the return.
The Clerk had received an invoice from JWH regarding grass cutting for £90.00 and Mr C. Byford had forwarded an invoice for £116.49 for re-planting of the troughs. These payments were proposed by Mrs K.Reeves and seconded by Mr P. Bailey.
All were in favour.
Mrs K. Reeves had arranged for the Clerk’s quarterly payment which amounted to £532.00.
The Clerk was looking into amending the current bank signatories which would probably require Councillors a visit to the bank as, probably to prevent fraud, there did not seem to be anyway of doing this online.
BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION:
It was reported that
the first round of judging had taken place. The Byford Family were commended for
doing such a sterling job replanting the village troughs, as were various people
who had offered to look after the troughs through the summer. It was noted that
Councillor Massie was storing the bulbs for replanting later in the year.
It was confirmed that the Village festival would be taking place on July 11th.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council. Stafford
Borough Council had forwarded information regarding Part 2 of the Community
Infrastructure Levy consultation that was taking place. There had been a mayoral
invitation for afternoon tea at Upper House, Barlaston. AON Insurance had sent
information regarding quoting for the forthcoming insurance renewal. This was
to be discussed later. The Clerk had also received an email from the Church
requesting a financial donation towards producing the Parish Magazine. The
Clerk is to contact church representative, Mr Ralph Howarth to ascertain what
sort of amount is required.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the next meeting of the Parish Council would be held on the 7th
July at 7.30pm in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 9.35pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs P.Bailey, P.Harriman, D.Massie and S.Moore,
Stafford Borough Councillors, Mr S.Leighton and Mr R.Sutherland, four members of
the public and the Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Staffs County Councillor Mr M.Winnington.
The Clerk welcomed all those present and invited nominations for the post of Chairman. Mrs S.Dodd nominated Mr Peter Harriman; this was seconded by Mr P.Bailey. All were in favour and Mr Harriman was duly elected as Chairman for the forthcoming year. There were no other nominations.
Mrs S.Dodd was nominated for the post of Vice Chairman by Mr P.Harriman and seconded by Mrs K.Reeves. All were favour. There were no other nominations.
All Parish Councillors then signed as customary the Declaration of Acceptance of Office Ledger and signed the model code of conduct forms. The Clerk advised all Parish Councillors that she had received the Disclosable Pecuniary Interests forms and Personal Interest forms from the elections office at Stafford Borough Council and would forward these to all Councillors. The Clerk also informed all Councillors that these forms must be returned to the Borough Council by Thursday 4th June.
Due to only six of the seven Parish Council seats being filled there was now a vacancy. The Clerk had contacted the Elections Office about this but it was agreed to discuss this matter at the next Parish Council meeting.
MINUTES:
The Minutes were deemed as a true record by those present and were then duly
signed by the Chairman.
MATTERS ARISING:
It was confirmed by Mr Harriman that children’s’ posters for this year’s Best
Kept Village Competition had been received. Mrs S.Dodd was asked if she would
like to judge these which she kindly agreed to do.
LATE ITEMS
Re-planting of the village troughs was discussed. A budget of £180 was proposed
by Mrs S.Dodd and seconded by Mr S.Moore. All were in favour. Mrs K.Reeves was
to oversee this, and was to see whether the Byford Family would be willing to
help again this year following their fantastic support in previous years.
It was requested by Mrs S.Dodd to add BT Kiosks to the next agenda.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr Tony Lendon expressed concerns over the recent
damage by farm machinery to the triangle at Marston. The Chairman agreed to
speak with the farmer involved and to chase up with County Highways the plan to
kerb and protect the triangle. Mr Lendon also very kindly offered to replace
the knob on the village notice board which he had made. Mr Harriman thanked Mr
Lendon for carrying out this work and his concerns over the triangle.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
WATCH:
It was agreed to
invite a representative from Neighbourhood Watch to a future meeting. The Clerk
had sent the recent alerts received from Neighbourhood Watch to all Councillors.
VILLAGE
PLAYGROUND:
The Clerk had contacted G L Jones
Limited about whether they could inspect the horse and how much this would
cost. Their representative, Mr Hefin Jones suggested sending out an inspection
team the following morning the cost of which would be approximately £180. This
would rise if the rocking horse required more detailed work to be carried out. A
provisional budget of £400 (maximum) for any works to be carried out was set.
This was proposed by Mrs K.Reeves and seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in
favour. Mr Harriman and Mr Bailey agreed to meet the maintenance men on site
and the Clerk was to arrange this with G L Jones.
Mr Houghton had returned the playground inspection book to the Clerk and had also carried out the quarterly inspection of the playground which had not found any problems. Mr D Massie took the book for the forthcoming month.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had received several planning applications. The first for an
extension at East Lodge, Little Onn and the second for a single storey side and
front extension at 5 Wood Eaton Road, Church Eaton. There were no objections to
these applications.
More recently an application had been received for the conversion of buildings into eight dwellings at the Polish Camp, High Onn. Following a long discussion and examination of the plans the Parish Council concluded that they were not in principal against development of these buildings, but would be expressing concerns over plans to raise the roof line and the removal of features such as the external nibbing. They would also like to see the water tower retained.
RURAL MOBILE
TELEPHONE COVERAGE
This
matter was discussed again but it had proved difficult to obtain any more
information regarding the Vodaphone Rural Open Sure signal scheme. Due to time
constraints, it was agreed to look at this again at a future meeting when
hopefully some more information might be available.
WELCOME PACKS:
The Clerk had met with former Chairman Mr
T.Houghton and had received several amendments to the current pack. These were
to be carried out and then the Clerk was to forward several copies to Mrs Daphne
Rutherford who had kindly agreed to pass them on to any new parishioners. The
Clerk was to keep Mrs Rutherford updated on this matter.
HIGHWAYS:
Mrs G Skelton had contacted the Clerk to pass
on her thanks to the Parish Council and Former Borough Councillor Mr B.Stamp
regarding the start of road drainage works in Marston. It appeared that works
were now taking place at Marston, hopefully in preparation for the eagerly
awaited and much needed road improvements.
Pot hole reporting was discussed at length. Councillor Moore had had problems with reporting two in the Marston area. Stafford Borough Councillor Mr S.Leighton suggested using a phone app to help report these.
The Clerk enquired if there had been any more problems encountered by motorists from badly angled security lights on properties near to the highway. The Clerk had publicised this in the last Parish magazine. She was asked to contact Mr John Edwards to see whether there had been any more problems since he brought this matter to the Council’s attention.
BEST KEPT
VILLAGE COMPETITION:
Preparations were under
way. The Clerk confirmed that the annual hanging baskets and tubs competition
would be held and that she was currently looking for a suitable judge.
FINANCE
The Clerk had received confirmation of receipt for the first payment of the
Parish Precept. With regard to the forthcoming audit, the Clerk had posted the
required Notice on the notice board. Mrs Helen Bellamy had kindly agreed to
conduct the internal audit again.
The Village Institute had invoiced the Parish Council for the hire of the hall for May’s meeting amounting to £20.00. The Clerk had received an invoice from JWH regarding grass cutting for £135.00. These payments were proposed by Mrs K.Reeves and seconded by Mr S.Moore. All were in favour.
Mr Houghton had arranged with Mrs K.Reeves that she would take on responsibility for the Clerk’s fee and would forward the necessary paperwork on to her.
It was also discussed to amend the current bank signatories and the Clerk was to look at getting this arranged for the next meeting.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a two Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council. The
Clerk had replied to the letter received from Henry Bryan regarding his
selection to represent the Staffordshire and UK contingent at the 23rd
World Scout Jamboree in Japan requesting financial assistance. The Clerk had
invited Henry to attend a future meeting to discuss this in more detail.
The Clerk had received an invitation, by email, from Carla Whelton, the Bradford Estates manager for Councillors to attend a site meeting at Wood Eaton Manor on the 26th May to discuss plans with their architect and Viscount Newport. Several Councillors were willing to attend and the Clerk had informed the new Stafford Borough Councillors. Mr R.Sutherland had conveyed his apologies as he would be away on that date but Mr S.Leighton was hoping to attend. The Clerk was to contact Ms Whelton to confirm this. The meeting would take place at 2pm.
All other correspondence had been circulated to the Parish Councillors.
It was agreed that the next
meeting of the Parish Council would be held on the 2nd June at 7.30pm in the
Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 10.00pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs P.Bailey, P.Harriman, T.Houghton,
D.Massie, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp, one member of the public
and the Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Councillor S.Moore and Staffs County Councillor, Mr
M.Winnington.
MINUTES:
There was one error arising from the Minutes from the previous meeting. The
Clerk had written that the hedgerow saplings were to be trimmed. This was not
the case; they were to be left and hopefully laid at a future date. The rest of
the Minutes were deemed as a true record by those present and were then duly
signed by the Chairman.
MATTERS ARISING:
All matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.
LATE ITEMS
There were no late items.
OPEN FORUM:
Mr Andrew Brown brought up and discussed repairs and
refurbishment of the churchyard bench.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
It was reported that more electric fencing units had been stolen. The police had
been informed.
VILLAGE
PLAYGROUND:
Councillors, Mr P.Harriman and Mr
S. Moore are still set to carry out their detailed inspection of the rocking
horse as soon as the weather improves. Councillor D.Massie had contacted the
pest controller about the recent mole activity in the playground and is expected
to deal with this in the next few days.
Mr Harriman, who had the inspection book for March is to keep it for the forthcoming month. It was noted that the CERS Hip Twister equipment required a spot of WD40.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had not received any planning applications but had received
information regarding Gnosall Parish Council’s Local Plan and had forwarded
information regarding this to all Parish Councillors.
ELECTIONS 2015:
The Clerk had attended the recent elections update
at the Stafford Borough Council offices. Jane Peat, the elections officer, had
presented another very useful and informative briefing. A high turn out for
these elections, comprising Parish, Borough and General was predicted. A
time-table of key dates was given out, along with a specimen nomination form for
the Parish Elections and advice on how to fill these in correctly. The Clerk
went through some of the more important dates and points.
HIGHWAYS:
Councillor Harriman had chased up the recent
proposals for improving the roads at Marston and had received an email from Mr
Chris Mitchell, Staffs County Council’s Community Infrastructure Liaison
Manager. The news was not good as County Highways now needed to arrange
temporary road closures as the required works were more drastic than first
thought. It was understood that an application for these road closures had been
submitted.
THE GLEBELANDS
SPORTS ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE:
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp - President of the
Glebelands, had been in talks with Mr Nick Ashby, acting Chair of the
Glebelands, over the need to get a full Glebelands Committee together given the
recent struggle to do so. However, Mr T.Houghton felt that this situation
might resolve itself as several people were interested in joining the
Committee. It was further reported that the AGM would take place on the 17th
March 2015.
BEST KEPT
VILLAGE COMPETITION:
The entry for this year
needed to be in by the end of March so Mr Houghton and Mr John Edwards were
meeting tomorrow to organise the Village map. The Clerk had received
information, via email, from the Community Council regarding the children’s
poster and poetry competitions and was to forward this to Councillor Harriman.
FINANCE
Following a request made by the School to assist with the cost of flooring two
of the classrooms, the Council agreed to make a donation of £450.
A request from the Church to help with the costs of refurbishing and repairing the church bench had also been received. It was further agreed to donate £200 towards this project. This was proposed and seconded and approved as above.
The Village Institute had invoiced the Parish Council for the hire of the hall for March amounting to £20.00. The Clerk had presented an expenses invoice of £45.48. These payments were proposed by Mr P.Bailey and seconded by Mrs.S.Dodd. All were in favour.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council and an
allotment survey which she would respond to. There were leaflets and posters for
the Borough Council’s Walkwise Walking for Health Events.
There was an invitation from the Mayor to attend ‘An Evening of Choirs’ event.
It was agreed that the next
meeting of the Parish Council and the annual Parish meeting would be held on the
7th April 2015 in the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting
closed at 8.55 pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves, Messrs P.Harriman, T.Houghton, D.Massie, S.Moore,
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp, one member of the public and the Clerk,
Mrs D.M.Key.
APOLOGIES:
were received from Councillor Mr P.Bailey.
MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those
present and were then duly signed by the Chairman.
MATTERS ARISING:
All matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.
LATE ITEMS
There were no late items.
OPEN FORUM:
Was not required on this occasion.
WEST STAFFS CONNECT SERVICE
Debbie Wilkes from Staffs County Council was in
attendance at the meeting to publicise the new West Staffs Connect Service.
This service was described by Debbie as being a re-vamped Rural Link with a
dial-a-ride concept. The service offers transport connections to local villages
for onward travel along with direct transport into Stafford and is open to all
residents within the operating area who are not within walking distance of a bus
route or who need to access a main bus route when local bus services are not
available
The restrictions to the service was that it could not cover any current commercial routes e.g. Arriva bus routes because of unfair competition created by West Staffs Connect’s subsidised funding. It was further noted that the service was not operational in Marston and Ms Wilkes was asked if she could find out whether it was possible to extend the service in to Marston. The Chairman thanked Ms Wilkes for her attendance and bringing leaflets to be distributed within the Parish. The Clerk is to include information about the service in the next Parish magazine report.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
It was reported during the meeting that several local farmers had had electric
fencing units stolen from their fields. In one case this had resulted in stock
straying from the field. It was also reported at the meeting that attempts had
been made to remove a village trough located near to the Village Playground.
Anyone with any information regarding this matter was asked to contact the
Parish Council.
DOG FOULING:
The Clerk had received an email from local resident Mrs Julie Howarth who was
very concerned about a recent spate of dog fouling in the High Street especially
given that the dog had fouled on the pavement outside her property and directly
in the path of children and parents walking to the school. Although Mrs Howarth
had supplied photographic evidence, she did not know whose dog had caused this
mess. The Clerk was asked to report this in the Parish magazine and more dog
fouling notices were organized. It was agreed to contact Streetscene with any
specific information that might lead to a prosecution. The Clerk was asked to
update Mrs Howarth.
VILLAGE PLAYGROUND:
Councillors, Mr P.Harriman and Mr S. Moore are to carry out their detailed
inspection of the rocking horse as soon as the weather improves. Mrs S.Dodd
returned the inspection book. It was noted that there was a lot of mole
activity. Councillor D.Massie is to contact a pest controller who will live
trap the moles instead of resorting to poison. The saplings at the canal end of
the playground were discussed following an enquiry from Mr C.Byford as to
whether they required trimming. While it was hoped that the saplings might be
laid to form a hedge, possibly in twelve months, it was agreed that they should
be trimmed back a little. Mr D.Massie kindly offered to do this.
The flower trough by the playground had been moved in what looked like an attempt to remove it. It was agreed that Mr.T.Houghton and Mr Harriman would try to firm the posts of the trough with some ‘post crete’. Mr Harriman took the inspection book for the forthcoming month.
PLANNING:
The Clerk had not received any planning applications but had received a letter
from Bill Cash MP in response to the suggested amendment to the NPP Framework.
There was also an attached letter from Brandon Lewis MP, Minister of State for Housing and Planning at the Department for Communities and Local
Government. This letter was fairly dismissive but did at least recognise
the Parish Council’s interest in this matter.
HIGHWAYS:
Councillor
Harriman had met with Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.Winnington and Mr Chris
Mitchell, Staffs County Council’s Community Infrastructure Liaison Manager on
the 26th January to discuss the terrible road conditions in Marston.
The outcome of this meeting was that Highways were to look at improving
drainage; five drains were identified as being blocked. Landowners of these
affected drains were to be contacted and teams deployed to unblock them. It was
also proposed to stone areas that were acting as passing places with a soil top
to try and maintain some sort of stability.
It was also acknowledged that a lot of ditches needed cleaning out perhaps with the help of local farmers. Currents road works on Slab Lane were discussed as well as the bad pot holes in Birchmoor Lane which were to be reported again.
Mr S.Moore confirmed that the burnt our car that had been abandoned near to Wheaton Aston had been removed.
BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION:
After some discussion it was agreed that Church Eaton
should enter again this year. Mr Houghton was to ask Mr John Edwards if he could
again provide the Village map which always scored highly with the judges. Mr
Houghton was also to enquire around the village to see if any volunteers could
be found to help with litter picking etc. The Clerk is to organise the annual
hanging baskets and tubs competition.
FINANCE
The Clerk presented a revised budget through to April 2015. There had been a
financial request made from the School to assist with the cost of flooring two
of the class rooms. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting.
The Village Institute had invoiced the Parish Council for the hire of the hall in February amounting to £20.00. The payment of this invoice was proposed by Mr T.Houghton and seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in favour.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council and a
series of emails from the Community Council of Stafford informing the Parish
Council of the threat to its funding. However, in a later email it seemed that
this situation had been resolved as DEFRA were to provide funding for another
year.
The Borough Council has sent information regarding this year’s Pride in Your Patch Awards.
The Clerk confirmed that she would be attending the Borough Council elections briefing on Wednesday 4th February.
It was reported by Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp that the Glebelands Committee urgently required new members. This was to be discussed at the next meeting
It was agreed that the next meeting of the
Parish Council would be held on the 3rd March 2015 in the Village
Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.05 pm.
PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves, Messrs P. Bailey, T. Houghton, D. Massie,
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp, Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.
Winnington and the Clerk, Mrs D.M. Key.
APOLOGIES:
None were received.
MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those
present and were then duly signed by the Chairman.
MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk had not yet received a response from Bill Cash MP, regarding the
recent correspondence which suggested an amendment to the National Policy
Planning Framework. Emma Crout from the Borough Council’s Streetscene
organisation had contacted the Clerk about a query raised at the last meeting
regarding tarmacing. Ms Crout advised that only small scale projects could be
considered due to the limits of their equipment.
LATE ITEMS
The Chairman raised concerns over the proposed changes to ordering prescriptions
on-line from the pharmacy at Gnosall. Mr Houghton was concerned that while most
households did have access to, and knowledge of computers, this did not apply to
everyone and the decision to make online ordering compulsory was somewhat
short-sighted and prohibiting for some people.
OPEN FORUM:
Was not required on this occasion.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
WATCH:
There had been no recent bulletins and
nothing else to report.
VILLAGE
PLAYGROUND:
Councillors, Mr P. Harriman and Mr S.
Moore had received an email from the Clerk regarding the suggestion from G L
Jones regarding replacing the rubber buffers on the rocking horse. It was agreed
however, that before the new buffers were ordered a more detailed inspection of
the rocking horse would be carried out by Councillors Harriman and Moore.
Mr P. Bailey returned the inspection book and had noted some graffiti on the play equipment notice board. He had also removed the remains of a small fire. It was further reported that the hedging plants were doing well. Mrs S. Dodd took the inspection book for the forthcoming month.
PLANNING:
The
Clerk reported on correspondence received from Gnosall
Parish Council regarding their Neighbourhood Plan Consultation. The
consultation contained a survey which was to be circulated to all Parish Council
members.
HIGHWAYS:
The poor state of the roads in Marston was discussed
with Staffs County Councillor, Mr M. Winnington. The proposed inspection of
these roads with Parish Councillor, Mr Peter Harriman and Mr Chris Mitchell,
Staffs County Council’s Community Infrastructure Liaison Manager, was also
discussed. Mr S. Moore commented on a burnt our car that had been abandoned
near to Wheaton Aston. Mr Moore had reported this to South Staffordshire Council
although it was not clear which local authority area the car was located in.
Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp was to look into this and if necessary
contact Stafford Borough Council.
FINANCE
Financial arrangements for the forthcoming year were discussed and it was agreed
that the Clerk would request no increase in the level of precept from Stafford
Borough Council and to request the maximum concurrent functions allowance
(£531.00). This was proposed by Mr T. Houghton and seconded by Mrs K. Reeves.
All were in favour.
The Clerk’s fee was discussed and it was agreed, with the Clerk’s approval, that there would be no rise in fee for this coming year. The Chairman suggested that the Parish Council review the methods currently employed to arrive at any future increases in the Clerk’s fee. It was agreed that this would take place, in the absence of the Clerk, following next month’s meeting. It was noted that the Clerk had received a cheque amounting to £531.80 for the last quarterly fee.
The Village Institute had invoiced the Parish Council for the hire of the hall in January amounting to £20.00. The payment of this invoice was proposed by Mr T. Houghton and seconded by Mr P. Bailey. All were in favour. The Institute Committee had also written to advise that the letting fees for the Institute would remain the same for 2015. The Committee had also thanked the Council for the recent £500.00 donation towards the current refurbishment of the Village Hall.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Clerk had received a Members Digest from Stafford Borough Council and an
email regarding the Stafford West Connect Service which was understood to
comprise dial a ride. The Clerk was asked to find out more.
The Council had received an invitation from Stafford Borough Council to send a representative to an election briefing on the 4th February at the Borough Council offices. The Clerk offered to attend.
It was agreed that the next meeting of the Parish Council would be held on the 3rd February 2015 in the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 8.45 pm.