Church Eaton Parish Council minutes 2011

MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 1ST DECEMBER 2011


PRESENT:
Ms J. Byford and Mrs K. Reeves. Messrs S. Caplan, P. Harriman, T. Houghton, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp and the Clerk, Mrs D. M. Key.


APOLOGIES:
There were apologies received from Mrs S. Dodd, Mr I. Glover and Staffs County Councillor, Mr M. Winnington.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
Mrs S. Dodd had sent a message to thank the Parish Council for their condolences and support over the recent sad loss of her husband.


OPEN FORUM
Was not required on this occasion.


LATE ITEMS
There were no late items.


C E V PLAYGROUND:
Mr P. Harriman returned the inspection book and had noted that one of the playground trees required pruning. It was also noted that some of the new play equipment instruction ‘stickers’ were starting to peel. The basket ball hoop was twisted.

The Clerk has asked John Hall to look at the fencing and installation of grass guard to the goal mouth. John said he would notify the Clerk shortly with quotes.

Mr Houghton confirmed that CERS now had two trained personnel to maintain the new equipment, John Green and Mick Easter.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
The Clerk confirmed that she was still receiving regular updates from Mandy Corser. It was agreed that these would be forwarded to all Parish Councillors on receipt


PLANNING:
One planning application had been received for ground mounted solar panels at Manor Farm, Marston. In principle the Parish Council had no objections other than responding to the concerns from one local resident to request screening, possibly with a hedge or small trees, to lessen the impact of the panels. It was noted that this development had already been carried out. The Clerk was asked to convey these concerns. There were no updates on the proposed Wind Farm at Brineton.

The Localism Bill was discussed. No information had been received from Stafford Bough Council regarding this matter. The registration of community assets was discussed.


HIGHWAYS
The Clerk reported on recent communications with Chris Mitchell from Highways who had confirmed that the previously requested speed survey would be carried out in the next few days.


BULB PLANTING
This matter was deferred until the next meeting.


DIAMOND JUBILLEE CELEBRATIONS 2012:
Mr Houghton reported that a Diamond Jubilee committee had been set up and celebrations, probably in the form of a street party, were being planned for the 3rd June. The Clerk passed on some literature concerning Diamond Jubilee beacons.


FINANCE
The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £50.00 had been received for the purchase of the Christmas tree. The Clerk had also received an invoice from the Institute amounting to £40 for hire of the hall. These were proposed for payment by Mr S. Caplan, seconded by Ms J. Byford. All were in favour.

The chairman had received a cheque for £1.20 from the MEB as a way leave payment.

The Clerk requested permission to obtain several storage boxes for Parish Council. This request was agreed to.


WELCOME PACKS:
The Clerk was asked to forward the revised Welcome Pack documents to the Chairman for a second opinion.

CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had received the current Members Digest and The Clerk was asked to respond to a letter from Penny McKnight - SBC Senior Conservation Area Officer - about taking part in the proposed consultation concerning parish conservation areas. Other items of correspondence were to be circulated around the Parish Council. It was agreed that a decision concerning financial arrangements regarding next year’s precept would be discussed at the next meeting.

It was agreed that there would be no meeting in January as the first available Tuesday was very early in the New Year.
Therefore the next meeting would be held on the 7th February 2012 in the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m.
The meeting closed at 9.00 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 1ST NOVEMBER 2011


PRESENT:
Mrs K.Reeves. Messrs S.Caplan, I.Glover, P.Harriman, T.Houghton, three members of the public, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp and the Clerk, Mrs D.M.Key.


APOLOGIES:
There were apologies received from Mrs S.Dodd and Ms J.Byford.

Mr T.Houghton reported on the recent death of Charles Dodd and expressed, on behalf of the Parish Council, condolences to Mrs S.Dodd.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk confirmed that Church Eaton had been successful in the recent request to receive a free bench from the Borough Council. The Clerk would be contacted in the New Year about collecting the bench.


OPEN FORUM
Mr Tony Lendon from STAG addressed the meeting over the decision by Wind Prospect to appeal against the recent planning refusal for the six wind turbines at Brineton. In order to fight this appeal, STAG were fund raising to cover the cost of employing expert witnesses and a barrister to represent STAG during the appeal. Mr Lendon further reported on the various meetings and fund raising events planned for the near future.


LATE ITEMS
It was agreed that the Parish Council would fund the Institute Christmas tree with a ceiling of £50 towards this cost.


C E V PLAYGROUND:
Mr Houghton confirmed that the new notice had been installed in the playground. CERS had requested that another sign should be displayed concerning children using the new playground under the supervision of adults. It was agreed that CERS should put in an extra sign if they wanted.

Concerns were expressed over dog fouling in the play ground. One local dog had been seen fouling in the playground. The Clerk was asked to contact the owner to discuss these concerns.

Following the recent weekly inspections concern was expressed over the erosion and exposure of stones in the football goal mouth. The Clerk was asked to contact John Hall to see if he could install an area of grass guard to protect the surface from wear and tear. The Clerk was also asked to obtain quotes from local fencing contractors for the next meeting.

Following the recent request for lighting in the playground, the Parish Council discussed this at some length and while not ruling this out completely were unable to fund such a project at present. Concerns were also expressed over how lighting could be installed and the effect this would have on neighbouring properties.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
There had been no local reports but Mandy Corser was continuing to update the Parish Council about policing matters.


PLANNING:
One planning application had been received for voltaic panels to be mounted on the roof of an agricultural building at Red House Farm, Little Onn. There were no objections to this proposal


HIGHWAYS
The Clerk reported on recent communications with Chris Mitchell from Highways and the co-ordinator of Community Speed Watch. An automated traffic survey had been discussed with Mr Mitchell who wanted instructions from the Parish Council as where the most suitable place might be to install the monitoring equipment. After discussion, the Parish Council agreed on a spot adjacent to the entrance by Smithy Croft on the High Street. The Clerk briefed the meeting on an email from the Community Speed Watch co-ordinator which detailed costs, health and safety provision and training. It was agreed that this would be discussed again following the survey. It was further agreed that the Parish Council should however continue to push for a reduction in the speed limit.

Mr Houghton discussed the recent visit by the Community Highway team and the very poor road surface on the road to High Onn adjacent to High Onn House Farm.


BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION:
Mr Houghton read the judges comments for this year’s competition which were on the whole very good. Ms Byford was about to commence bulb planting and would update the Parish Council at the next meeting. The Clerk had asked for volunteers to help Josie via the parish magazine.


DIAMOND JUBILLEE CELEBRATIONS 2012:
Mr Houghton reported to the meeting that a family street party was being planned for next year’s celebrations on the 3rd June plus family games etc on the Glebelands and lighting of the beacon.


FINANCE
The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £76.00 had been received for grass cutting. SBC had forwarded an invoice for the last civic amenities visit. The Clerk had also received an invoice from the Institute amounting to £40 for hire of the hall. These were proposed for payment by Mrs K.Reeves, seconded by Mr I. Glover. All were in favour. Mr Houghton was paid £60 for the new playground sign which he had purchased.


WELCOME PACKS:
The Clerk reviewed the changes she planned to make to the pack and would bring a draft copy to the next meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had received the current Members Digest and Minutes from the recent Parish Forum held in September. These and other items of correspondence were to be circulated around the Parish Council.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 6th December in the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.20 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 4h OCTOBER 2011


PRESENT:
Ms J. Byford, Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves. Messrs S. Caplan, I. Glover, P. Harriman, one member of the public, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp and the Clerk, Mrs D. M. Key.


APOLOGIES:
There were apologies received from Councillor Mr T. Houghton.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Vice Chairman Mrs S. Dodd.


MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk confirmed that Church Eaton had been added to the list of Parish Councils hoping to receive a free bench from the Borough Council. Unfortunately as demand was certainly going to exceed supply, the request for two benches looked unlikely, but hopefully the Parish Council would be considered for one. The Clerk would be contacted in the near future about this matter.

The Clerk reported that although a report had been sent for the October edition of the Parish magazine, due to the printers requiring the copy early, the report had been left out.


OPEN FORUM
: Dog fouling was discussed again. There was yet again the ongoing problem of dog owners clearing up after their dogs but then throwing the full plastic bags into fields. This seemed to be particularly prevalent just outside the village on the High Onn and Little Onn Roads.

The fingerpost at Joan Eaton’s Cross had again been pulled out. A suggestion was made about putting the fingerpost in the hedge.

Concern was expressed by a member of public over the use of a building for dog grooming purposes in the Marston area and whether this required planning permission with regard to change of use. The Clerk was asked to look into this matter


LATE ITEMS
: There were no late items.


C E V PLAYGROUND:
A new notice board was required due to recent installation of the new play ground equipment. After much discussion new wording was agreed to reflect how the play ground equipment should be used referring to the instruction labels on each piece of equipment.

Mr I.Glover returned the inspection book. Fencing was discussed but no quotes had been received as yet.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
There had been no local reports but Mandy Corser had alerted the Parish Council about two matters, one concerning bogus water board officials trying to gain access to people’s homes and the recent rise in poaching on Cannock Chase.


PLANNING:
Mr P. Harriman updated the Council on the latest wind farm developments. It was likely that Wind Prospect would be appealing against the decision to refuse planning consent for the six large wind turbines.

Recent objections to a proposed caravan site on the outskirts of Gnosall were discussed. It was generally agreed that Church Eaton Parish Council should follow this matter and support where appropriate.

One planning application had been received for the extension and continual use of an agricultural/equine building located at Land at Little Onn, Lapley Road. After some discussion there was a majority decision not to object to this proposal.


HIGHWAYS
: The Clerk had received that day a letter from MP Bill Cash supporting the Parish Council’s attempt to obtain 20 mph zoning within the village. Mr Cash had also forwarded a copy of the letter he had received from Staffs County Council confirming that the school would be included in the “20 is Plenty Campaign”. When this would take place was not clear. There had been no news re the requested traffic count. The Clerk was asked to chase this matter up. The setting up of a Community Speed Watch group was also discussed but in the absence of a traffic survey this would be discussed at the next meeting in more detail.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £76.00 had been received for grass cutting. Ms Byford had submitted an invoice for £16.82 re painting costs for the rails in the playground.


WELCOME PACKS:
The Clerk was continuing to review the documents she had received from the Chairman in order to update the packs. It was agreed that paid adverting would be dropped from future packs.

CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had received the current Members Digest. This and any other items of correspondence were to be circulated around the Parish Council.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 1st November in the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 8.55 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 6th SEPTEMBER 2011


PRESENT:
Ms J. Byford and Mrs S. Dodd. Messrs S. Caplan, I. Glover, P. Harriman, one member of the public and the Clerk, Mrs D. Key.


APOLOGIES:
There were apologies received from Councillors Mr T. Houghton and Mrs K. Reeves and Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Vice Chairman Mrs S. Dodd.


MATTERS ARISING:
Ms Byford confirmed that she had painted the play park railings and was thanked by the Vice Chairman for doing so.


OPEN FORUM
: Mr John Edwards asked the Parish Council for a small financial donation towards the running costs of keeping the Parish web site up and running. This request was to be considered under finance. It was also noted that Justin O’Doherty had just completed his 200th ‘jotting’ for the web site and which also featured in the weekly Staffordshire Newsletter local news page.

The vandalism of local fingerposts such as the one at Joan Eaton’s Cross was discussed. This post in particular had recently been ‘pulled out ‘of the ground on several occasions.


LATE ITEMS
: The Chairman had notified the Clerk that he had received an enquiry over proposed changes to the local bus service from a parishioner. It appeared however that there were to be no changes except for a minor one at Marston planned for the foreseeable future.


C E V PLAYGROUND:
The Vice Chairman reported on the recent official opening of the new play ground equipment. The event organised by CERS had been well attended with international cycling champion Hugh Porter and swimming champion Anita Lonsborough conducting the opening with Martyn Caton, from British Urban Fitness was also in attendance to give instructions on how to use the new equipment effectively. The proposed new sign was discussed briefly with the intention to finalise this at the next meeting. The Clerk confirmed that the insurance premiums had been paid. It was agreed that at a later date the Clerk and Chairman would look at updating the current asset register and re-value the old play equipment.

No quotes had been received yet regarding replacing the fence adjacent to the Oaklands however Mr S. Caplan suggested that the Parish Council should also look at either replacing or pinning down the roadside fence. This was unanimously agreed.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
The recent lead theft from Bradley church was discussed. Mrs Dodd reported on a scam trying to obtain personal details from pension/insurance holders.


PLANNING:
Mr P. Harriman updated the Council on the latest meeting he had attended concerning the proposed wind farm complex at King Street. The Clerk had received a letter from Stafford Borough Council advising that the recent planning application for a lawful development certificate for an existing development – building at land at Little Onn on the Lapley Road had now been withdrawn.

Mr S. Caplan updated the Council on the Localism Bill describing the various ways the Bill might impact on Parish Councils. These would be in areas such as developers having to consult more with Parish Councils and local authorities being required to list community assets such as village shops, pubs etc with these being offered to local communities in the first instance should they come up for sale. There appeared to be no guidelines as yet available from the Borough Council concerning these issues.


HIGHWAYS
: The Clerk had not received any further news concerning the request for 20 mph zoning nor the requested traffic survey. Winter gritting programmes were discussed.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £20.00 had been received for hire of the Village Institute for the last meeting. JWH had also forwarded an invoice for grass cutting amounting to £76.00. The Audit Commission invoice was also due for payment amounting to £174.00. These items were proposed for payment by Ms J. Byford and were seconded by Mr P. Harriman. All were in favour. Mr John Edwards’s request for a donation towards maintaining the Parish web site for £119.00 was also agreed.

It was also agreed as at the last meeting to support Ms J. Byford’s suggestion to plant bulbs and install planted containers. Initially Ms Byford was asking for a payment of around £200 for the purchase of bulbs. This was provisionally agreed by the Parish Council.


WELCOME PACKS:
After a short discussion it was agreed that the Clerk would review the documents she had received from the Chairman and present these at the next meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had received the current Members Digest and information concerning the forthcoming Parish Forum to be held on the 29th September. The Clerk was asked to reply to a letter from Stafford Borough Council who was offering free benches to Parish Councils. The reply was to request one or two benches. The Royal Horticultural Society had forwarded information about the ‘Britain In Bloom’ Competition. Any other items of correspondence were to be circulated.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 4th October in the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m.

The meeting closed at 8.45 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 2ND AUGUST 2011


PRESENT:
Ms J. Byford, Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves. Messrs S.Caplan, P.Harriman, T.Houghton. I.Glover and the Clerk, Mrs D. Key.


APOLOGIES:
There were apologies received from Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp and Neighbourhood Watch Representative, Ms M.Corser.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
Updating the existing Welcome Pack format was discussed and it was agreed to discuss this matter later on in the meeting.


OPEN FORUM
: This was not required on this occasion.


LATE ITEMS
: There were no late items.


C E V PLAYGROUND:
Mrs S.Dodd returned the inspection book and had found the playground to be in good order. It was noted, however. that the metal rails located at the entrance to the playground required a new coat of paint. Ms J.Byford volunteered to ask Mr Roy Billington if he was interested in carrying out this work. If not Ms Byford kindly offered to do the work herself.

The Clerk confirmed that she had sent a letter of thanks to CERS for the provision of the new equipment. It was also confirmed that there would be an official opening of the new equipment to be organised by CERS possibly in September.

The hole in the ground area by the seat had been attended to by Mr Houghton. The playground sign was discussed again and it was agreed to look at new wording and discuss this with CERS.

The Ash trees growing between the double fences were discussed as well as the possibility replacing the fence. Various local contractors were to be approached to obtain quotes.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
The clerk had sent contact information for the local police and PCSO to John Edwards to place on the parish web site. More equestrian equipment thefts had been reported. While these were not in the immediate area they illustrated the trend for items like this to be stolen. The recent attempt to try and abduct a child in the Village was discussed. This specific information had been passed around as many people and organisations as possible.


PLANNING:
Mr P.Harriman updated the Council on the recent meeting he had attended concerning the proposed wind farm complex at King Street. He informed the Council that STAG were still actively fund raising to fight any appeal that Wind Prospect may make against the refusal to grant planning consent for the proposed wind turbines. This was especially important given that an appeal had already been lodged against the refusal of the anemometer and that a planning inspector had visited the site.

A planning application had been received for a new gablet at the Old Rectory. After studying the plans the Council had no objections to this proposal.


HIGHWAYS
: The Clerk had not received any further news concerning the request for 20 mph zoning. The Clerk had written to Bill Cash MP to seek his support on this matter and was awaiting a reply. The Clerk was asked to contact Councillor Winnington to see if he had been able to ask County Highways to carry out a traffic speed count in the Village as soon as possible.

Mr Houghton reported on the recent Community Highways Team visit to Church Eaton. Various other highways matters were discussed. Mr S. Caplan reported on the flooding that had ensued outside his and neighbouring properties following a suspected water leak. Severn Trent Water had been informed but did not seem to be managing this at all well.


LOCALISM BILL:
The Council discussed the Bill’s progress and the implications this could have for the Parish Council in areas such as planning and the impact on future workings of Parish councils.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £20.00 had been received for hire of the Village Institute for the last meeting. JWH had also forwarded an invoice for grass cutting amounting to £76.00. The last visit of civic amenities invoice was also due for payment amounting to £52.50. These items were proposed for payment by Mr I.Glover and were seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in favour.

The Clerk had now insured all the new equipment which had incurred a premium of £43.28. As above this was unanimously agreed for payment. The annual renewal had also arrived and amounted to £910.10. It was agreed that this would be paid subject to approval following the Chairman’s inspection of the policy.


BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION
: Mr Houghton and Mrs Dodd attended the recent Best Kept Village Competition presentation where Church Eaton received a highly commended certificate.

The Parish Council were unanimous in support of Ms Byford’s request for funding for communal tubs and plantings to be considered. Ms Byford was also asked to oversee the Best Kept Village competition arrangements for next year.

The Clerk had now received the results from the judges of the hanging baskets and tubs competition. These were as follows. In first place was Cherry Tree Cottage and joint runners up were Hanwell Cottage and Rose Villa. The Clerk was asked to write to the judges to thank them and obtain the gardening vouchers.


WELCOME PACKS:
After a short discussion it was agreed that the Clerk would circulate the documents she had now received from the Chairman and these could be discussed and reviewed at the next meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had two Members Digests and information concerning the forthcoming SBC Green Awards. Invitations to future mayoral events were discussed and information regarding these given out.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 6th September at the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.25 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 5th JULY 2011


PRESENT:
Mrs S.Dodd and Mrs K.Reeves. MessrsS.Caplan, P.Harriman, T.Houghton and Ian Glover. Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B.Stamp, Staffs County Councillor, Mr M.Winnington, PCSOScott Biddulph, one member of the public and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
There were apologies received from Miss J.Byford.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
The Clerk invited Mr Peter Harriman to sign the declaration of office ledger as the newly co-opted Parish Councillor. The Clerk also confirmed that she had contacted the Borough Council elections officer to confirm this appointment.

It was confirmed that Miss J.Bennett’s field access had been dealt with. MrT.Houghton discussed updating the village welcome packs and it was agreed to bring one for the next meeting to review. All other matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.


OPEN FORUM
: During Open Forum, PCSO Scott Biddulph addressed the meeting about recent incidents reported in Church Eaton citing for example the thefts of lead from the church roof amongst others. He also reported on the rota of patrols through the village and how to obtain information about policing in the area from the local newsletter available on line and the OWL Neighbourhood Watch service. MrHoughton requested that officers might like to pop into the Youth Club on a regular basis. Speeding along the High Street was also discussed.


LATE ITEMS
: There were no late items.


C E V PLAYGROUND:
The Clerk had contacted the playground insurance company to add the recently installed basketball hoop. This had resulted in only a slight increase in premiums. All the new equipment had now been installed and there had been a very good initial response. The Clerk was asked to forward on to CERS a letter of thanks. The Clerk had also enquired about insuring the new equipment which was reckoned to be in the region of £13,000.00. The resulting premium for this would be £31.50. It was noted that the playground signage will need changing and this would be discussed at a future meeting.

Miss Byford returned the inspection book and had not recorded any problems.

MrsS.Dodd took the book for the forthcoming month.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
This item was discussed under Open Forum.


PLANNING:
The Clerk had received a letter from Stafford Borough Council to inform the council that the application for extended time to commence building at land adjacent to Brookside Cottages had been withdrawn. Mr Harriman was asked to represent the Parish Council at future wind farm meetings and to report back.


HIGHWAYS
: Councillor Winnington gave an update of recent highway matters. There was much discussion about 20mph zoning along the High Street and other parts of the village. Although Councillor Winnington had presented this request for zoning to County Highways he reported that it might take up to two years before the request was considered. As a result of this the Clerk was asked to write to Bill Cash MP to seek his support on this matter. Council Winnington suggested that perhaps the Village could, in the meantime, set up a Community Speed Watch to help alleviate the problem. He also agreed to ask County Highways to carry out a traffic speed count in the Village as soon as possible,

The Church Eaton to Haughton Road was still under review. Once drainage work had been carried out it was hoped that resurfacing might take place next year. It was also noted that the Apeton Bridge parapet repairs were scheduled into the work programme. It was requested that any stonework which required replacing would kept in keeping with the original.

The next visit of the Highways Neighbourhood Team was discussed and the current list of highway matters was reviewed. It was agreed that MrHoughton would liaise with Sean Latham about these requests.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £20.00 had been received for hire of the Village Institute for the last meeting. JWH had also forwarded an invoice for grass cutting amounting to £76.00. The Clerks half yearly fee was also due amounting to £1,000.00. These items were proposed for payment by Mrs S.Dodd and were seconded by Mr I.Glover. All were in favour.

The Clerk had now insured the new basketball hoop which had incurred a premium of £9.48 and although waiting for an invoice the new outdoor recreation equipment had been also insured and amounted to an extra payment of £31.50. These would be dealt with at the next meeting when the annual renewal would probably be due.

The Clerk confirmed that the accounts and return had been forwarded to the Audit Commission within the request date


BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION
: The Clerk was awaiting results from the judges of the hanging baskets and tubs competition. She would then arrange to purchase the vouchers to forward on to the winners.


VILLAGE FESTIVAL:
The festival had gone very well although there were some thoughts that numbers were slightly down this year. Even so the committee had once again worked extremely hard to put on another successful festival.

CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had received notification of the intention to divert Footpath 0.1310 from Staffs County Council. There were no objections concerning this matter. There had been another request for a membership subscription from the Community Council. Various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 2nd August 2011 at the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 7th JUNE 2011


PRESENT:
Ms J. Byford, Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves. Messrs S. Caplan, T. Houghton and Ian Glover, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp, Staffs County Councillor, Mr M. Winnington, three members of the public and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
There were no apologies received.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
All matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.


OPEN FORUM
: Miss J.Bennett asked the Parish Council if Highways could be approached about the access to her field located in Woollaston Lane. Due to ditching works carried out in the lane, Miss Bennett had been unable to get trailers in and out of the field. Mr Houghton stated that the Parish Council would take this matter up on her behalf.


CO-OPTION OF A PARISH COUNCILLOR:
There had been three nominations received regarding the existing vacancy on the Parish Council to be considered for co-option. Unfortunately Mr John Young from Goosemoor was unable to attend the meeting and had withdrawn his nomination. Mrs Rose Atkinson from Church Eaton High Street and Mr Peter Harriman from Marston, both present at the meeting, had also expressed an interest. Each gave a short biography and were then asked to leave the meeting so that the Parish Council could elect a Councillor. This proved to be very difficult as both candidates were deemed eminently suitable, however by one vote, Mr Peter Harriman was co-opted on to the Council.


LATE ITEMS
: The Chairman discussed welcome packs and offered to read through the current pack and to update where necessary. Miss Josie Byford was asked if she could oversee their distribution when required. The Clerk is to email Miss Byford with any monthly updates from the Borough regarding the electoral role.


C E V PLAYGROUND

:
The basket ball hoop obtained by CERS had been installed in the playground. The Clerk was asked to contact the insurance company to add this new piece of equipment on to the current schedule.

Both the Clerk and Chairman updated the meeting concerning their attendance along with Parish Councillor Karen Reeves and Borough Councillor, Mr Barry Stamp at the recent CERS meeting. The Clerk reported that the meeting had been very constructive. The issue of ownership of the new equipment had been discussed and it was the intention of CERS to pass the new equipment on to the Parish Council. This could only occur after three years due to the manner in which the grant had been structured. The recent draft memo of understanding between CERS and the Parish Council had also been discussed and it was generally felt that this would be a good ideas.

There was to be a site meeting with the contractors, CERS and any other interested parties to discuss where the new equipment should be installed. The Chairman requested that as many Parish Councillors as possible should attend this meeting so that a good general consensus of opinion could be reached. The Clerk would advise the Parish Council of the date and time.

Mrs Karen Reeves returned the inspection book and Miss Byford took the book for the forthcoming month. Mrs Reeves reported that there was a hole by the bench that needed filling in. Mr Houghton offered to do this. Mrs Reeves also reported that the chain link fence required more ties.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
Ms M.Corser had contacted the local police about attending a future Parish Council meeting and it was hopeful that a PCSO Ricky Hunt would be able to attend in July.


PLANNING:
Mrs Sheila Dodd reported on her recent attendance at a STAG meeting held on the 16th May. It seemed certain that Wind Prospect would be going to appeal. Two planning applications had been received, one for a dirty water reservoir at Red House Farm, Little Onn, and the other for a ground floor extension at Miss Tildesley’s Cottage, High Street, Church Eaton. There were no objections made to these proposals.


HIGHWAYS
: There was much discussion about 20mph zoning along the High Street and other parts of the village. Staffs County Councillor, Mr Mark Winnington was given more information about this request and asked to present this to Highways. Traffic surveys to monitor speeds through the village were also discussed as was the formation of a speed watch group. Councillor Steven Caplan had provided the Council with very useful information regarding 20mph zoning of the village. Other highways matters were also discussed including the re-surfacing of the Church Eaton to Haughton road; the bridge parapet at Apeton and additional fingerpost signs for Goosemoor. Councillor Winnington was also asked to look into the matter of Miss Bennett’s field access.

The next visit of the Highways Neighbourhood Team was arranged for mid July and the Parish Council agreed to update the current maintenance list at the next meeting.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £20.00 had been received for hire of the Village Institute for the last meeting. This was proposed for payment by Mr T. Houghton and was seconded by Mrs S.Dodd. All were in favour.

The Clerk confirmed that the accounts were now in the public inspection period of the audit process, which had been advertised and would end on the 22nd June. Helen Bellamy, who had carried out the internal audit had requested, as in previous years that her services be repaid by making a financial donation to the Jack and Jill Pre-School Group. A cheque for £25 was proposed by Mrs S. Dodd and seconded by Mr Houghton. All were in favour.

The Clerk had emailed the Council about the cheque number sequence Mrs Reeves had queried in May. As suggested the cheque had been presented earlier than the following cheques and thus appeared in the previous year’s accounts.


BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION
: As agreed in May, the annual hanging baskets/ tubs competition would be held again this year. The Clerk had now found a pair of judges to carry out this task.


VILLAGE FESTIVAL:
The festival arrangements were progressing well.

CORRESPONDENCE: Various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 5th July at the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.10 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 10th MAY 2011


PRESENT:
Ms J. Byford, Mrs S. Dodd and Mrs K. Reeves. Messrs S. Caplan, T. Houghton and Ian Glover, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp, Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, Ms M. Corser and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
There were no apologies received.

The Clerk welcomed both the returning and new Parish Councillors. A copy of the Parish Council standing orders was given to each of the Councillors and the Declaration of Office ledger was signed by each member. The Clerk also issued all Parish Councillors with a copy of the Register of Financial Interests forms to be completed and returned to the Borough Council.


ELECTION:
Mr Trevor Houghton was proposed for re-election as chairman by Mrs S. Dodd and this was seconded by Mr I. Glover. All were in favour. There were no other nominations.

Mrs S. Dodd was re-elected to the post of vice – chairman after being proposed by Mr I. Glover and seconded by Mrs K. Reeves. All were in favour.

Mr T. Houghton thanked the Parish Council for his re-election to the post of Chairman but stated that he while he was happy to continue in this role for the short term he would welcome other Councillors to consider putting themselves forward as Chairman in the future.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
All matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.


LATE ITEMS
: The only late item was to discuss the co-option of a Councillor as there was one vacancy remaining following the recent uncontested election. Mrs Dodd had received one expression of interest from a resident of Marston. Mrs Dodd was asked to inform the interested to notify the Clerk about this matter.

The Clerk in turn stated that she would contact the Borough Council to consult over the co-option process and then advise any interested parties and the Parish Council.

In the interim it was agreed that this vacancy should be advertised as widely as possible within the Parish. It was then hoped that this process would be some way further by the next meeting.


OPEN FORUM
: There were no open forum items on this occasion.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
Ms M. Corser had contacted the local police about attending a future Parish Council meeting. There may be a representative available to attend either the June or July meeting but Ms Corser would update the Council on this matter. There were several reports of property being broken into. The Village Institute had recently had a fridge and hot cabinet stolen plus damage done to the interior. There had been reports of lead thefts and a spate of thefts from sheds and agricultural buildings in the area.


C E V PLAYGROUND

:
Mr I. Glover returned the inspection book and reported that the playground was relatively tidy. Mrs K.Reeves took the book for the coming month. The new equipment was discussed and while CERS had not yet received the cheque for the grant that they had been awarded, progress was under way to place an order. A visit had been made to Wolverhampton to view similar equipment that had been installed in a playground. A draft memorandum of understanding had been prepared with regard to the future installation of the equipment. Mr S. Caplan raised a point about ownership of the equipment. Mr Houghton said he understood that the equipment would belong to the Parish Council. To this end the Chairman and Clerk were to attend the next meeting of CERS on 16th June to seek clarification on several issues and would report back to the Parish Council


PLANNING:
It was reported that the second planning application for the proposed six wind turbines at King Street, Brineton had been turned down at a recent planning meeting at South Staffordshire Council. There were no objections made to the recent amended plans for the barn conversions at Red House Farm Little Onn.


HIGHWAYS
: The Clerk had contacted Mike Maryon, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport over the recent request for a lower speed limit throughout the High Street. By return Mr Maryon had requested that we make this request through Staffs County Councillor Mark Winnington. The Clerk had contacted Mr Winnington over this matter. The recent invitation to attend meetings of the Stafford Western Route A518 & A519 Action Group was discussed. The Clerk was to find out more.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £20.00 had been received for hire of the Village Institute for the last meeting. This was proposed for payment by Mr T. Houghton and was seconded by Ms J. Byford. All were in favour.

An invoice for £152.00 for grass cutting of the playground had also been received. This was proposed for payment by Mrs K.Reeves, seconded by Mr S. Caplan. All were in favour. £150.00 towards the insurance for this year’s Village Festival was agreed for payment. This was proposed by Mr I. Glover and seconded by Mrs S. Dodd. Two other Parish Councillors agreed this. Mr Houghton Mrs Reeves declared an interest in this matter.

The Clerk reported that the accounts were now ready for the internal auditor. An extension of one month had been granted by the Audit Commission with regard to the recent elections. The annual Return was signed by the Chairman following the Clerk providing the Council with an overview of the accounts. Mrs Reeves queried a cheque number. The Clerk stated that the cheque had probably been presented in the previous year’s accounts but would check this against last year’s accounts.


BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION
: It was agreed that the annual hanging baskets and tubs competition would be held again this year. A judge would be required and this would be discussed at the next meeting.


VILLAGE FESTIVAL:
The festival arrangements were progressing well for this year although more help was required with organising the festival. A meeting was scheduled for the 11th May.

CORRESPONDENCE: Various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 7th June at the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 5th APRIL 2011


PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd, Mrs K. Reeves and Ms M. Corser, Messrs T. Houghton and Ian Glover, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp, one member of the public and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
These were received from Councillors Mr B Thacker and Mrs D. Jones. Mr J. Edwards had also forwarded apologies.


MINUTES:
The Minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and 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 R. Carless expressed concerns over speeding traffic through the High Street, especially large heavy goods and agricultural contracting vehicles. Mr Carless was primarily concerned that these large vehicles passing at high speeds were not only a danger to pedestrians but particularly school children accessing the school. Also vibrations from these vehicles were, he felt, causing damage to his property and other properties along the High Street. Councillor B. Stamp stated that the County Council were currently implementing lower speed restrictions especially outside schools. The Clerk was asked to contact Staffs County Council over this matter and report at the next meeting.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
Ms M. Corser gave a brief update. The recent theft of lead from the new notice board was discussed. There were also reports of fuel thefts and several break-ins at rural properties in the area. Mr Houghton thanked Mandy for all the work she had carried out with Neighbourhood Watch during her

time on the Parish Council. Mandy said that she would continue supplying information to the Council after she stood down.


C E V PLAYGROUND

:
Mr Houghton returned the inspection book and reported that the play ground was in good repair. He also reported that he had put some grass seed down in the goal mouth where the grass had been worn away and that John Hall had commenced grass cutting for the forthcoming season. Mr I. Glover took the inspection book for the next month.

It was confirmed that CERS had been successful in obtaining a grant for the proposed new all age recreational equipment. The Clerk was asked to draft a memorandum of understanding between CERS and the Council which would be discussed at the next meeting.


PLANNING:
It was reported that the second planning application for the proposed six wind turbines at King Street, Brineton was to be decided at a planning meeting at South Staffordshire Council this evening. The first planning application which had been turned down was probably going to appeal.


HIGHWAYS
: The Council discussed asking for a lower speed limit through the High Street. While it was acknowledged that this request might not be implemented along the entire length of the High Street it should certainly be considered outside the school.


VILLAGE NOTICE- BOARD
: Mr Houghton suggested that a backing of cork board might be installed in the Parish Council notice-board to make it easier to pin up notices. Magnets were also suggested and Mr Houghton said he would look further into this matter.


ELECTION UPDATE:
The Clerk reported that the Council would not be having an election as six out of the seven places for a position on the Council had been filled. This did mean however that the Parish Council would be one councillor short of a full complement. It was agreed that co-opting a councillor on to the Council should be considered and discussed at the next meeting.


FINANCE
: The Clerk confirmed that an invoice amounting to £20.00 had been received for hire of the Village Institute for the last meeting. This was proposed for payment by Ms M. Corser and was seconded by Mrs S. Dodd. All were in favour.

St Editha’s PCC had sent a letter to the Council requesting financial support for the printing costs of the Parish Magazine for the forthcoming year. This request for £350.00 was discussed at some length and Mr Houghton proposed that the Council should support this request. This was seconded by Mrs K. Reeves. Mr I. Glover requested a counter proposal of giving £300.00 instead of £350.00 but received no seconder for this proposal. All but one Councillor was in favour so the original motion was therefore carried. It was however agreed that this donation was for one year only and would be reviewed, if requested, next year.

The Clerk reported that the Audit Commission were requesting the return of this year’s Return form by the end of May. The Parish Council agreed that they would request an extension to this period to allow ample time for the internal audit and proper public consultation. The Clerk was asked to contact the Audit Commission to request this e


BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION
: The map had been completed with help from John Edwards who was very kindly overseeing the competition for this year.


VILLAGE FESTIVAL:
The festival arrangements were progressing well for this year although more help was required with organising the festival.

CORRESPONDENCE: Various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council including the recent Members Digest. The A518 Action Group had sent an invitation for Church Eaton Parish Councillor’s to attend future meetings. The date for the Parish Forum had been set for the 29th September. The Clerk had also received dates for the civic amenity visits for this year being 2nd April, 30th July and 26th November at 9.00 – 10.00 on the Royal Oak car park.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 10th May subject to availability of the Village Institute at 7.30 p.m. The meeting closed at 9.25 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 1st MARCH 2011


PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd, Mrs K. Reeves and Ms M. Corser, Mr T. Houghton, one member of the public and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
These were received from Parish Councillors’ Mrs D. Jones, Mr I. Glover, Mr B. T hacker and Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp.


MINUTES:
The minutes from the previous meeting were deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
It was agreed that all matters arising from the last meeting would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.


LATE ITEMS
: There were no late items.


OPEN FORUM
: Was not required on this occasion.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
There was nothing specific to report from Neighbourhood Watch. It was reported at the meeting that there had been recently several electric fencing units stolen. A further concerning matter was the number of field gates being left open.


C E V PLAYGROUND

:
Mrs K. Reeves returned the inspection book and reported that the hole had been filled in satisfactorily by Mr Houghton (who was thanked for doing this). The thorn bush had also been trimmed back. There had been no news from CERS with regard to the all age equipment but they were expected to meet on the 3rd of March and an update concerning this matter was expected shortly.

The five a side football goal mouth grass was now very badly eroded and installing grass guard was discussed. Mr Houghton took the inspection book for the forthcoming month and was to report on this at the next meeting.


PLANNING:
The Clerk had received amended plans for the proposed barn conversions at Red House Farm, Little Onn. There were no objections made to these amendments which concerned improvements to access around the site


HIGHWAYS
: It was reported that the brook bridge parapet had been damaged. This had been reported to highways (number1190996). Mud on the roads and the dreadful state of many of the roads was discussed with more and more potholes being identified. The Clerk had contacted Highways and had been given a contact but was also told that work on many of these potholes was now imminent. As a result of this the community gangs were currently being utilised to help fill in pot holes.

Dog fouling was discussed or more specifically reports that certain dog owners while cleaning up after their dogs were then throwing the bagged poop over field hedges!


WIND FARM:
There were no updates although it was understood that there had been objection received to the proposed wind farm complex from Natural England amongst others concerning the effects of the development on the environment.


BUS SERVICES:
Mrs K. Reeves reported that Church Eaton had still got a bus service running on a similar time table.


PARISH ELECTIONS :
The Clerk had attended a workshop held by Stafford Borough Council to brief Parish councils on the arrangements for the forthcoming Parish elections. The Clerk reported that the workshop had been most useful and felt that she could probably provide useful information and help to anyone wishing to stand as a result of this. The Clerk further reported that election notices and nomination papers would be available shortly but in the interim informal notices would be placed on the village notice board, parish magazine etc advertising the elections and the important deadlines.


FINANCE
: One invoice was due for payment amounting to £17.90 for this year’s BKV entry. This was proposed for payment by Mrs S. Dodd, seconded by Mrs K. Reeves. All were in favour.

The Clerk had received two letters from the Village Institute and the school thanking the Parish Council for the recent financial donations.

CORRESPONDENCE: Several items of correspondence had been received this month and various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council, including a Members Digest from SBC, news about the Community Paths Initiative 2011-2012 and a membership enquiry from SPCA.

It was agreed that the next meeting and the annual parish meeting would be held on the 5th April 2011 in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 1ST FEBRUARY 2011


PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd, Mrs K. Reeves and Ms M. Corser, Messrs T. Houghton and Ian Glover, Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
These were received from Councillors Mrs D. Jones, Mr B. Thacker and Staffs County Councillor, MrM.Winnington.

Before the meeting commenced, the Chairman reported on the recent death of Mrs Cynthia Huxley, a former Parish Councillor. This sad news did however invoke some happy memories of Cynthia’s time on the Parish Council. She will be very sadly missed and the Parish Council expressed their condolences to Cynthia’s family.


MINUTES

:
There were two amendments made, one the correct spelling of Mrs Reeves surname where an ‘e’ had been missed out. Also CERS had been incorrectly spelt. The minutes from the previous meeting were then deemed correct by the Parish Council and 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.


C E V PLAYGROUND

:
Mrs S. Dodd returned the inspection book and had found the play ground generally tidy. There was however a hole which required filling in and Mr Houghton kindly offered to do this. Mrs Dodd had also noticed that on the right hand side of the playground, a thorn bush needed pruning back. Mr Houghton also said he would look at this. There had been no news re the installation of the new all age equipment but it was reported that CERS would be meeting shortly.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
Ms M. Corser was pleased to report that there had been no incidents reported in the last few weeks.


PLANNING:
It was reported that South Staffordshire Council had refused planning permission for the first of the two planning applications recently submitted for the proposed wind farm at King Street, Blymhill. This application for the installation of a 70m monitoring mast for two years had received over three hundred letters of objection and the leader of the Council had remarked that an application had not previously had so many letters of objection. The second planning application for the installation of six wind turbines will be determined shortly.

The Clerk had received two new planning applications, one for new window arrangements at Woodview, Birchmoor Lane and the second for an extension to an existing barn at Manor Farm, Marston. There were no objections made to these proposals. Mrs S. Dodd declared an interest in these matters.


HIGHWAYS
: Various highways maintenance issues were discussed particularly concerns over the poor conditions of many of the local roads within the Parish.

The Clerk was asked to contact Staffordshire County Highways Department about this matter.


VILLAGE NOTICE-BOARD
: It was reported that the new village notice board had been installed. This splendid new notice board had not only been given to the Parish but had also been by Mr Tony Lendon. A letter of thanks has been passed on to Tony for his very generous gesture.


BUS SERVICES:
A list detailing the proposed loss of some local bus services was discussed and while services currently operating to Church Eaton are not on this list there was cause for concern that these services may in time be affected. It was agreed that the Parish Council would contact Staffordshire County Council in response to their recent consultation letter regarding local services. Mrs Reeves agreed to update the Parish Council on any developments and report on this matter at the next meeting.


FINANCE
: As the end of the current financial year was approaching, the Parish Council responded to the recent requests for financial aid from local organisations. This resulted in £250.00 being given to the school for gardening and play equipment;

£800.00 towards major repairs required by the Village Institute and £100 for local boy, Oliver Bryan who will be representing his country at a scouting jamboree in Sweden later this year. These were proposed for payment by Mr I. Glover and seconded by Mrs S. Dodd. All were in favour. Mr Houghton and Mrs Reeves declared an interest in the giving of funds to the Institute and Ms M. Corser declared an interest with respect to Oliver whose family are acquaintances.

Two invoices were also passed for payment - £20 for hire of the Institute for the last Parish Council meeting and £520 for the installation of the new disabled access at the playground carried out by Mr D Taylor.


CORRESPONDENCE:
Various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council including the recent Members Digest, the publication Time 2 Time and an entry form for this year’s Best Kept Village Competition.

The Clerk was asked to contact the Borough Council in response to their recent letter regarding civic amenity visits for 2011. The Clerk was asked to request three visits, one in March, one in July and one in November. Dates and details of these visits will be published shortly following confirmation by the Borough.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 1st March 2011 in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 9.20 p.m.

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MINUTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON THE 4TH JANUARY 2011


PRESENT:
Mrs S. Dodd, Mrs K. Reeves and Ms M. Corser, Messrs B. Thacker, T.Houghton and I. Glover. Stafford Borough Councillor, Mr B. Stamp, Staffs County Councillor, Mr M. Winnington, four members of the public and the Clerk.


APOLOGIES:
These were received from Councillor Mrs D. Jones.


MINUTES:
The Chairman corrected the spelling of the surname ‘Annis’. The minutes from the previous meeting were then deemed as a true record by those present and duly signed by the Chairman.


MATTERS ARISING:
A pot hole on the Wood Eaton road was reported to the meeting. Mr Houghton was to report this to Highways. All other matters arising would be taken as they appeared on the agenda.


LATE ITEMS
: There were no late items.


OPEN FORUM
: The proposed wind farm at King Street, Brineton, Blymhill was discussed. The Chairman reported that the planning applications, one for six wind turbines and the second seeking temporary permission for an anemometer (to monitor wind speeds at the site) had now been submitted to South Staffordshire Council. This had been confirmed in a letter to the Parish Council from Wind Prospect, the wind farm developer.

The local action group STAG had requested support from the Parish Council. The Parish Council proposed that they should support STAG as the Parish Council would be objecting to this development. This was proposed by Mr Houghton, and seconded by Mrs K. Reeves. All were in favour. Mrs S. Dodd, a local resident to the proposed development declared an interest in this matter.

It was further agreed that the Parish Council would attend a public meeting organised by STAG to be held on 12th January in the church. The Clerk and Chairman were to draft a letter of objection and on approval the Parish Council would forward this on to South Staffordshire Council plus other interested parties such as local MPs and Councillors.


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH:
Ms M. Corser gave a brief update.


C E V PLAYGROUND

:
The new disabled access to the playground had been completed and the Parish Council was now awaiting an invoice from Mr Taylor.

There was no update from CERS although it was understood that the grant application was still progressing. Mr Houghton returned the inspection book and Mrs S. Dodd took the book for the forthcoming month.


PLANNING:
Other than the wind farm planning application, the Clerk had received no new applications.


HIGHWAYS
: Various highways maintenance issues were discussed.


VILLAGE NOTICE-BOARD
: This was now completed and was awaiting installation.


BUS SERVICES:
Mrs Reeves had been in contact with Highways over the winter gritting programme, which was still considered unsatisfactory along the bus routes.

Mrs Reeves also reported on the predicted loss of some of the local bus services. This, due to the proposed reduction of drivers, was expected at the end of February. Mrs Reeves was asked to keep the Parish Council appraised of any developments.


FINANCE
: The Clerk’s half yearly fee and expenses was now due for payment. Mr Houghton proposed increasing the half yearly fee by £50 resulting in a half yearly fee of £1,000. This was seconded by Mrs S. Dodd. All were in favour. An invoice amounting to £67.56 for annual expenses was also passed for payment. An invoice for the village Christmas tree amounting to £40 was also paid.

The Clerk had received a request from Stafford Borough Council for this year’s financial requirements. The Parish Council unanimously agreed not to request an increase in the level of precept for the forthcoming year. The maximum concurrent functions allowance was also requested. The concurrent functions allowance has been reduced this year as a result of the recent reduction in Government funding for the Borough Council. As a result the Cabinet has reduced the overall budget for Concurrent functions. This has been calculated at £666 for 2011/2012 for Church Eaton.


CORRESPONDENCE:
Various items were distributed for reading among the Parish Council including the recent Members Digest and information from the Electoral Boundary Commission.

In 2011 there will be Parish Elections. The Clerk, Diane Key will be attending a workshop to be held by Stafford Borough Council in February. This will aim at providing an overview of election procedures and will focus primarily on the nomination arrangements and any other changes since the last Elections in 2007. This should prove useful in supplying information for Parish Candidates wishing to complete their nomination papers correctly and submitting them in adequate time for checking prior to the last day for nominations. The Clerk will report on this workshop at the March meeting of the Parish Council.

It was agreed that the next meeting would be held on the 1st February 2011 in the Village Institute. The meeting closed at 9.00 p.m.