MINUTES OF GEORGEHAM PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY, 22 APRIL 2010 IN GEORGEHAM VILLAGE HALL AT 7PM. PRESENT: Councillor J Symonds (Chairman), Councillors Mrs P Barker (District Councillor), M Harrison, Mrs S Hood, Mrs V Meek, R Tucker. Also in attendance: County Councillor Mrs C Chugg, District Councillor M Wilkinson and Mrs S Squire, Parish Clerk. 169. Apologies. Councillor S Maskell, E Short, Mrs L Slade, PCSO D Kingdon. 170. Approval of the Minutes of the Meetings held on 25 March 2010. These were approved and signed as a correct record. 171. Representations from the Public. None present. 172. Declarations of Interest. District Councillor Mrs Pat Barker made the following statement: I shall consider the Applications under Minute No. 174.2 at this Meeting as a Parish Councillor and if and when these Applications come before a District Council Planning Committee for determination, I shall then consider them on their planning merits and with all available information before me. Councillor Tucker declared a Prejudicial Interest in Minute No. 174.2, Planning Application 49981. 173. Reports: 173.1 Police. When sending his apologies, PCSO D Kingdon advised of the following incidents: Theft of 4 kyacks from St GeorgeÕs House, Georgeham, now found. The same night a surf board was taken from under a car, found in a hedge in Berrynarbor. Theft of a handbag from a car at Baggy Point Car Park. Criminal damage to a vehicle, tyres slashed. 173.2 County Councillor Mrs C Chugg. Not present. 173.3 District Councillors Mrs P Barker and M Wilkinson. Councillor Wilkinson had been unable to attend the Meeting last month due to attending a Meeting in London on coastal issues on which he enlarged. Chris Parry was the new Executive of the Marine Maritime Organisation from 1 April who would have a sole role of taking over marine planning and land planning as one organisation. The Organisation is based in the North of England with delegates across the country. He is a down to earth, straight talking in laymanÕs terms person. The Meeting was to have a Presentation from the Marine Conservation Zone focusing on the South West but this was amended and came from the Essex area. Councillor Wilkinson wanted to know about effect on the Marine Conservation Zone and Atlantic Array proposals and vice versa. He advised that there is an underwater plinth which could be likened to cheese with holes and marine life would not be affected as they would be able to use this for usual swimming routes. Councillor Symonds spoke about the Conservation Area with regard to fishing. A PACT Meeting had been held as a Parish with regard to parking along Woolacombe Esplanade. The proposals put forward were not agreed by DCC Highways which involved parking meters with the following charging bands for parking: 6am - 8am free parking; 8am-9pm charging; 9pm - midnight free; midnight to 6am no parking. DCC official Lester Wilmington has supported the scheme and would release more funds for the scheme to be covered by Civil Parking Enforcement Officers. It was thought that the no overnight parking would be the most difficult to enforce. District Councillor Mrs Barker spoke about the situation, having queried the position of the Legal Department's opinion. Councillor Symonds suggested that Parish Councils should lobby their Member of Parliament after the Election to get the legislation in place. District Councillor Wilkinson advised that the revenue from the parking meters would go to DCC who would not fund Civil Parking Enforcement Officers. District Councillor Mrs Barker advised that she had attended a Meeting regarding the forthcoming Oceanfest event where the Police were present. A further Meeting was to be held for which there would be liaison with the Parish Council regarding representatives attending. At the Meeting she had raised the problems encountered last year with events clashing. The Police would be keeping a watchful eye for people who were drunk and there would not be so much Police presence on the Sunday. There was concern about crushing on the Saturday last year. 42 Schools were attending on the Friday and an attendance of 8,500 people were expected over the weekend. Councillor Symonds spoke about the problems on the Friday when coaches bring school children. Because the do not wish to pay to park for the day they drive away and cause congestion when they return to collect the children. If they were in a car park the situation could be better managed and it could be organised that they leave in small groups. There would be liaison with the Bus Company to run later in the evening. Councillor Tucker felt it was regrettable that the Parish Council had not been invited to the Meeting. At North Devon Council Annual Council Meeting, Councillor Roy Lucas had been re-elected as Chairman, Councillor Mrs Caroline Chugg Deputy Chairman and Councillor Paul Yabsley as lead member for waste and recycling having taken this on from Councillor Rodney Cann who was no longer on the Executive. She had attended a meeting of North Devon + who were planning constructive help for businesses involving business men and women from Northern France forming a chain and exchanging ideas to encourage business. If this proves productive, Phase 2 will proceed. Councillor Mrs Barker advised of a meeting between Superintendent Kevin Harris of Devon and Cornwall Police and the head of Services at North Devon Council to have better liaison. Councillor Mrs Barker concluded her Report by advising that she has a Powerpoint presentation which shows what is in her Portfolio, what is covered and raises the issues of what is highlighted at the beginning of the year. It was requested that a copy was sent to Councillors. 174. Planning. 175.1 Matters Arising. 174.1.1. Heather Down, Down End. As no reply had been received from the Enforcement Officer to this Council's email dated 19/3/10. The Clerk had attempted to contact him on the day of the Meeting but he was not in the Office. She then telephoned North Devon Council Customer Services and after checking the system, was advised that no Planning Application had been submitted to date. District Councillor Mrs Barker advised that the Planning Department would be monitoring the situation. The item to be on the May Agenda. 174.1.2 Field adjacent to Stentaway Lane, Putsborough. It was noted that a Retrospective Planning Application had been received, to be considered under Item 174.2. 174.1.3 Baggy Lodge. It was noted that the Enforcement Officer had been contacted with regard to removal of landfill material and a reply was awaited. District Councillor Mrs Barker advised that a visit had been made the previous Tuesday and a new file had been opened. The earthworks have been left terraced. An email to be sent to Enforcement Officer Shaun Harrington, copied to Planning Manager Mike Kelly pointing out that the matter of the landfill removal is now apparent that the land is to be left in a terraced. As a Parish Council we utterly reject it and enforcement should act. Furthermore there is another structure in the garden at the rear of Baggy Lodge which has never come before the Parish Council for consideration and robust action is sought. A reply is required for reporting at the May Meeting. 174.1.4 Caravan at Darracott, Georgeham. It was noted that the Enforcement Officer had been contacted and a reply received confirming that he was investigating the matter. To be on the June Agenda. A discussion followed regarding a supposed two tier system of enforcement. Councillor Symonds stressed that the District Councillors and Planning Officers were working hard even though the situation was very frustrating. Myrtle Meadow was mentioned, it having been noted that the entrance had been tarmaced, although it was noted that the owner had a 28 day exemption for camping. This to be advised to Enforcement with a copy to DCC North Area Highways Management with a request that the engineering works to the entrance were investigated with advice if this was a highways/planning matter. 174.2 Planning Applications: 50010 - Extension to dwelling at Cowrie House, Moor Lane, Croyde. It was resolved to recommend refusal on the grounds that the north elevation facing the road is unattractive and does not enhance the street scene. Vote: 5 for, 1 against. 50040 - Variation of Condition 1 (occupancy period) of Planning Permission 49385 to allow occupancy between 15 January and 15 November at 22 Leadengate Close, Croyde. It was resolved to recommend approval. 49943 - Demolition of existing & erection of 1 new dwelling at Chesil Cliff House, Down End, Saunton. We are being consulted as an adjoining Parish. It was resolved to reply as follows: Our considered opinion is that a building of this stature would enhance the area. 49981 - Retrospective Application for formation of tracks at land near Putsborough (SS 486.404), Georgeham. The Chairman read a letter of objection from Mr A G Bohannan. Councillor Tucker declared a prejudicial interest, left the room and did not take part in the discussion or decision thereon. It was resolved to reply as follows: This Council will not comment because the block plan is incorrect and shows a land ownership in excess of what is true. Georgeham Parish Council would expect that the Application be returned to the applicant and resubmitted in a correct format. Following this, if we are wrong that this should be returned to the applicant because of the incorrect block plan, then our recommendation would be one of refusal on the grounds that it adversely affects the AONB and that we agree whole heartedly with the comments raised in Mr A G BohannanÕs letter. 174.3.1 Planning Correspsondence: The following North Devon District Decision Notices were noted: APPROVALS 49668 - Extension to dwelling at Glebe Cottage, Chapel Street, Georgeham. 49730 - Siting of one underground LPG tank at Sandleigh, Moor Lane, Croyde. 49785- Extension of time limit for implementation of Planning Permission 36886 - erection of Surf School, Life Guarding/beach Safety provision & changing facilities at Putsborough Sands Car Park, Woolacombe. 49875 - Application for consent for works to trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order in respect of removal of 4 Beech trees at Mains Down Lane, Oxford Cross, Georgeham. 174.3.2 It was noted that Application 49804 - extension to dwelling & conversion of loft space to form additional living accommodation together with installation of external wall cladding and solar panels at Crowborough Farmhouse, Georgeham had been WITHDRAWN. 174.3.3 DCC. Change of use of staff living accommodation to ancillary accommodation at Georgeham Church of England Primary School. It was noted that planning permission had been granted. 174.3.4 North Devon Council. Details of a Planning Council Forum on 24/6/10 in the Civic Centre, 1.30pm for a 2pm start. 175. Matters Arising. 175.1 Devon and Cornwall Police. Letter acknowledging this Council's letter of commendation in respect of PCSO D Kingdon. 175.2 Georgeham Church of England Primary School. Position regarding Grant Funding/Donations. Councillor Mrs Hood advised that Ward Funding of £1,000 had been received from District Councillors Mrs Barker and Wilkinson. No funding had, as yet, been received from County Councillor Mrs Chugg. Paperwork had been submitted to DCC Education Department for funding assistance but this had not been successful. An email to be sent to County Councillor Mrs Chugg advising that the School was looking forward to the funding she had committed to their project. Councillors recollection was that she committed £1,000 to the School. There was the hope that she would update Councillors when she attended the Annual Parish Council Meeting on 27 May. 175.3 Data Protection. The Clerk advised that the application was being processed. 175.4 Winter Weather. A Task Group had been set up to discuss requests by Parish Councils, including grit bins. Further details would follow after the meeting in June. 175.5 Erosion of Sand Dunes at Croyde. Councillor Mrs Barker reported that she is arranging a Meeting between herself, Councillor Symonds and Andy Bell of AONB/North Devon Biosphere Reserve. 175.6 Georgeham Church of England Primary School. The current position was noted as that advised in Minute No. 175.2. 175.7 Tap in Playing Field. Councillor Tucker reported that this was ongoing. 175.8 Parking on Junction of Newberry Road/Chapel Street. Councillor Tucker reported that this was ongoing. The situation had been explained to residents by Councillor Mrs Hood. 175.9 Play Area, Georgeham. As Councillor Maskell was not present, this to be deferred to the May Meeting. Councillor Mrs Barker advised that North Devon Council Head of Licensing had noticed incorrect signage on the entrance gate regarding no alcohol being allowed and new signs had accordingly been supplied. 175.10 Bus Route 308. It was noted that representations had been made to Stagecoach South West regarding the size of the bus used and an acknowledgement received. It had been noticed that smaller buses were being used. It was known that smaller buses would be used when feasible. Councillor Harrison voiced his objection as a degradation of the bus service. 175.10 Cemetery Plan. The Clerk to provide Councillor Mrs Meek with an updated version. 175.11 Site Meeting at Jones's Hill, Croyde in January. It was noted that the Clerk had requested a follow up Report. District Councillor Mrs Barker suggested looking at diverting people down by the Carpenters Arms rather than along Moor Lane. A reminder email to be sent to DCC official Denice Daniels requesting her to progress the signage at Jones's Hill immediately and advising that this Council awaits her recommendations regarding the eroded road markings at Croyde Bridge. 175.12 Damaged Georgeham Sign at Higher Ham. It was noted that a replacement had been requested and an acknowledgement received. An email to be sent requesting when the work was expected to be carried out. 175.13 Dog Bin at Putsborough Road. Councillor Symonds reported that it was his intention to repaint this in the near future. 165. Accounts & Payments 176.1 Balances. Current A/ct BIA A/ct As at 26/02/10 5,489.36 40,797.97 Receipts Cemetery Fee 250.00 Cemetery Fee 250.00 DCC P3 Grant 825.00 Bank Interest 1.56 Payments As previously authorised 3,566.62 Balance as at 31/03/10 3,103.72 40,799.53 176.2 The following payments were approved and authorised: Mrs S Squire Broadband £ 3.00 Photocopying £ 10.77 Buckleigh Laundry Rental of hand driers in public toilets £ 14.11 Mr S M Wightman Grounds Maintenance at Cemetery for March 2010. Invoice No. 113 £ 183.49 Grounds Maintenance for village sites for March 2010. Invoice No. 112 £ 494.86 Work carried out for supplying 2 loads of mulch and labour for applying mulch to the shrub beds all beds that have been cleared by ourselves around the Glebe Site. £ 565.17 £1,243.52 J & J Bins Dog Bin Emptying for March 2010 £ 121.33 Mr M Symonds Tree work in Croyde Play Park including waste removal £ 50.00 Mr D Jones Work on various Benches in the Parish £ 317.50 Devon Association of Local Councils 2010/11 Subscription £ 295.61 Record RSS Play Equipment Repairs at Croyde Play Park £2,050.91 North Devon Council Recharge of Salaries January - March 2010 £2,255.40 Devon Playing Fields Association 2010/11 Subscription £ 35.00 176.3 North Devon Council. It was noted that the sum of £745.00 and £400.00 had been credited to the Council's Bank Account in respect of Community Councillor Grants for repairs to Croyde Play Park and 2 swings at Croyde Play Park respectively. 1763.1 The surface of Sandy Lane is to be improved with scalping by Parkdene. 176.4 North Devon Council. Letter from Planning Manager regarding Parish Council Forum. Councillors had previously been circulated with the details. 176.5 Audit Commission. It was noted that the Annual Return for the year ended 31/3/10 has been received. To be returned by 21/6/10. 176.6 Approval of the Accounts for the year ended 31/3/10. It was proposed by Councillor Tucker, seconded by Councillor Symonds and unanimously agreed to approve the accounts. Councillor Tucker was of the opinion that the Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer carried out a good job. 176.7 Approval, completion and signature of the Annual Return. The Clerk read the questions in Section 2 - Governance on the Return to Councillors. It was proposed by Councillor Tucker, seconded by Councillor Mrs Hood and unanimously agreed to complete the boxes in Section 2 with the words 'yes' and for the Chairman and Clerk to sign the Return. 177. Correspondence & Reports. 177.1 North Devon Plus. Letter regarding New Tourism Strategy for North Devon & Exmoor. Noted. 177.2 DCC. It was noted that the Lengthsman would be visiting on the following dates: 7 & 8 June; 26 & 31 August; 16 & 17 November; 23 February 2011. 177.3 Simpkins Edwards. Letter regarding conversion to Simpkins Edwards LLP Noted. 117.4 RoSPA. The Play Area Safety Inspection Reports for Croyde Play Park, Croyde Skateboard Park and Georgeham Play Area had been received and was taken by Councillor Symonds. 117.5 North Devon Council. Councillor Symonds advised the Meeting that the Parish Council had met on 15 April to discuss the issue of a property in David's Hill being let to a family outside of the Parish. As a consequence, a strong letter had been sent to the Housing Enabling Officer making forceful representations on behalf of the Parish Council and the resident. It had also been pointed out in the letter that a 4 bedroomed house in the village was occupied by one person. A discussion ensued. Councillor Symonds proposed that Shane Allen be given a copy of the letter sent by the Parish Council to which Councillors agreed. Councillor Symonds went on to say that this kind of thing should never be let go until a satisfactory conclusion had been made and this Parish Council would work hard to ensure that everything that can be done would be done. 117.6 RWE npower renewables. Letter regarding the Atlantic Array Scoping. Opinions sought. Noted. 178. Publications Received. _ North Devon Council Newsletters and Bulletins _ Junk Mail. Issue 4 _ AONB. Leaflet - Help us build your website. 179. Insurance. It was noted that the renewal papers had been received (due on 1 June) and an alternative quotation obtained. Councillors would be circulated with the details at the May Meeting with a view to a decision being made at that time. 180. Meetings attended by Councillors/Clerk 180.1 The Clerk tabled a Report on her attendance at a Finance Course - Preparing for Audit. 180.2 PACT Meeting at Woolacombe. This had been covered under Minute No. 173.3. 181. Urgent matters brought forward by the Chairman. Councillor Symonds advised that the Wooden Dug Outs at Georgeham Playing Field were rotten and it was the Football Club's intention to discard them, having been in use for more than 10 years. As Georgeham Football Club is in a League Side, Devon Football Association require 2 dug outs for home and away. Councillor Symonds hoped that this Council could support them in the provision of the new equipment, stating that the Club were prepared to undertake the groundworks with the enquiry being made whether the Parish Council would cover the cost of the dug outs expected to be in the region of £500 - £600. These would then be a permanent fixture. It was proposed by Councillor Symonds, seconded by Councillor Mrs Barker and unanimously agreed to support the Club financially in this way. Quotations to be obtained. 182. Matters Raised by Councillors/Clerk appropriate to the Parish not previously covered at this Meeting. 182.1 Vanguard Security Patrols to resume at Croyde Play Park. Councillor Symonds advised that he had made arrangements for this, commencing on the Friday and Saturday of the May Day Bank Holiday, on Friday and Saturday during the high season and periodic visits through May. It had been advised when the Patrols ended last year that the cost would stay the same. 182.2 Request by Mr C Burrows to support Beaford Centre Events. Councillor Tucker was of the opinion that it was generally felt that it would be more appropriate to contact the Village Hall and WIs. He stressed the Parish Council were supportive of the work the Centre carries out but that Councillors were over stretched with running the Parish. 182.3 Burger Van at Croyde Village Hall Car Park. It was confirmed that this had not been given permission to continue. 182.4 Political Posters. It was noted that posters had been displayed on Parish Council property which should not have been the case. 182.5 Councillor Mrs Meek spoke about footpaths, advising that trial riders were granted an Appeal in respect of Hole lane and Hannaborough Lane. A restricted byway would be accepted but this would then be made into a Byway Open to all Traffic. DCC had advised that the original decision was a restricted byway. The County Council Committee had decided it should be a Bridleway. Councillor Mrs Meek went on to say that if a Public Inquiry was held, she would ensure the case was strong. No cost would apply to the Parish Council, these being borne by DCC. She had noticed at the top of both ends of the lane there were no notices advising no motor vehicles. She asked Councillor Harrison to organise this so that they were reinstated. 182.6 Councillor Mrs Hood advised that the metal containers used as Football Club changing rooms on the Playing Field had been sprayed with green graffiti. Councillor Symonds to deal with this and he would also lock the gate for a while. 183. Date of Next Meeting. The Annual Parish Meeting would be on Thursday, 29 April 2010 at 7pm in Georgeham Village Hall. The next Parish Council Meeting would be on Thursday, 27 May 2010 at 7pm in Georgeham Village Hall. The Meeting ended at 9.51pm.