MINUTES OF GEORGEHAM PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY, 26 OCTOBER 2006 AT 7 P.M. IN GEORGEHAM VILLAGE HALL. PRESENT: Councillor J Symonds (Chairman), Councillors Mrs J Barnes, Miss R Brian, M Harrison N Mapp, S Maskell, Mrs V Meek. Also present: District Councillors D Spear and M Wilkinson; Special Constable Matthew Brown, 6 members of the public and Mrs S Squire, Parish Clerk. 74. APOLOGIES. Councillors Mrs L Slade and R Tucker. County Councillor Mrs J Jenkins. 75. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 21 SEPTEMBER 2006. It was proposed by Councillor Mapp, seconded by Councillor Maskell and unanimously agreed that these should be approved and signed. 76. REPORTS. Police. PC Brown gave PC Russ FisherÕs apologies due to commitments at another meeting. He said he had been a Special Constable at Braunton since 1998 and usually attended Heanton Punchardon Parish Council Meeting. He gave the crime statistics as follows: Since 21 September in Croyde there had been 10 reported crimes: a handbag theft at the Down End toilets, 7 thefts at Ruda from lockers being forced open in the pool area. There was a possible link at Ilfracombe in this connection where a vehicle had been stolen and 2 people subsequently arrested. There had been a non crime domestic and the theft of an unattended mobile Ôphone at Croyde Bay Holiday Village. In Georgeham, one crime had been reported involving the theft of a lawn mower from a shed classed as a remote burglary. He mentioned a road traffic accident at Croyde Bridge on 19 October between a car and a moped resulting in minor injuries and another accident where a bus hit a wall in St. MaryÕs Road. He had received a report that a person may be moving animals without the necessary Defra licences. The Chairman thanked him for attending. County Councillor Mrs J Jenkins. Not present. District Councillor D Spear. He mentioned the two appeal decisions in connection with Licences at Billy Budds and The Thatched Barn which were in line with the wishes of the Parish Council. He talked about the planning process and to improve the service, he is lobbying for a process where Planning Officers will listen to Parish Councils and feels this will make for a closer working relationship. He also mentioned the magistrates appeal system where there appeared to be a gap in the interpretation of the new Act of Parliament. The drink control order for the Parish has lapsed and we will be consulted as to how it worked in the past and how this should be taken forward. District Councillor M Wilkinson. Following on from the issue raised by District Councillor Spear regarding drinking in the centre of Croyde, this was raised at the last full Council Meeting. There was scepticism about renewing this when the area is not policed and there were strong feelings that the new order must be prepared in Page 2 Ð 26.10.06 consultation with the Parish Council and the probability of lack of policing should be highlighted. He mentioned the forthcoming meeting of the Northern Area Rural Alliance Meeting to be held in Georgeham Village Hall on Monday, 6 November the Agendas for which would be sent out the next day. Mr David Rogers the Waste Management Officer would be in attendance and should Members have any specific questions, these should be sent in beforehand to give an opportunity for this to be researched. He had requested that the three main Parishes in the area, Georgeham, Woolacombe and West Down all receive specific invitations. Georgeham Playing Field. No representative present. 77. REPRESENTATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC. Tracey Wall from Cross spoke regarding the footpath between Croyde and Georgeham. She explained that she walks her children to and from Georgeham Primary School, as do other parents, and considers the road is dangerous with no pavement provision. In her opinion there should be a speed limit, especially since the road had become much busier in recent years. It was noted that there had never been a footpath along this section of road and Footpath Officer Councillor Mike Harrison mentioned the footpath from the Baptist Church to North Hole which was out of use. A road improvement scheme was not viable but an alternative might be for the verges to be close cut to enable people to walk on them to keep off the road. It was suggested that she form a group of parents, obtain their concerns and present these to the Parish Council so that the issue could be taken forward. Meanwhile, the Parish Council to make representations to Mr J Deasey at DCC Local Service Group highlighting the concerns raised and the possibility of a speed restriction between Georgeham and Croyde since there were houses all the way. It was acknowledged that walking children to school was being encouraged at this time to restrict car pollution and promote exercise. This item was specifically mentioned in the Parish Plan. Lady Member of the Public. She advised that she was concerned about the location of the proposed Sports Pavilion in the Playing Field and was given the opportunity of inspecting the plans when the Application was discussed later in the Meeting. 78. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST. Councillor S Maskell declared a prejudicial interest in respect of Planning Applications 42992 Ð Extension to flat at Saltrock, Hobbs Hill, Croyde and 43005 Ð Extension to shop at Saltrock, Hobbs Hill, Croyde. 79. PLANNING. (1) Matters Arising. Sports Pavilion. Email correspondence between Councillors Mapp and Symonds. Councillor Mapp said that at the last Parish Council Meeting, Councillor Symonds advised planning permission was being submitted which was contrary to procedure. Page 3 Ð 26.10.06 Councillor Symonds advised that the Application had been submitted on behalf of the Parish Council and Georgeham Sports Club. Councillor Mapp pointed out that there was a dual hatted interest with Parish Councillors also being Trustees of the Playing Field. He noted that Councillors had not yet had the opportunity of seeing the drawings and Councillor Mapp was concerned that the Parish Council would ultimately be responsible for the running of the Pavilion. Councillor Maskell explained that the proposal was being put forward by the Steering Committee of the Sports Association and that the sole reason for the Application being submitted in the Parish CouncilÕs name is that the Planning Application fee is halved. Renewal of planning permission for the current metal containers on site was also discussed. Items for Decision: (2) To consider the following Planning Applications: (a) 42992 Ð Extension to flat Ð Saltrock, Hobbs Hill, Croyde. Councillor Maskell left the room and did not take part in the discussion or decision thereon. It was resolved to recommend approval. (b) 43005 Ð Extension to shop Ð Saltrock, Hobbs Hill, Croyde. Councillor Maskell continued to be absent and did not take part in the discussion or decision thereon. It was resolved to recommend approval. (c) 42804 Ð Erection of garage & games room (amended plans) Ð Down End House, Down End, Croyde. Councillor Maskell proposed to recommend refusal on the same grounds as the previous similar Application and also on the same grounds as was proposed in respect of The White House, Baggy Point. Seconded by Councillor Miss R Brian. Unanimously agreed. The wording to be: "that it is in an environmentally sensitive area. This constitutes new development outside the development envelope". Further wording to be: "Given that this could create extra accommodation there is no provision either for parking which we cannot accept, also it would overload the usage of the proposed new entrance to this site". (d) 43038 Ð Retrospective application for change of use of 1 agricultural building to form shower/toilet block for caravan site Ð Manor Farm, Putsborough. It was resolved to recommend approval. (e) 43034 Ð Demolition of existing dwelling & erection of new dwelling Ð The Mead, Withywell lane, Croyde. Councillor Maskell proposed a site visit. Seconded by Councillor Miss R Brian. An amendment to proposal approval was tabled by Councillor Harrison. Vote: Site visit proposal Ð 7 for, move to approve Ð 1 Site visit carried which would take place the next day, Friday 27 October at 8.30 a.m. Page 4 Ð 26.10.06 (f) 43091 Ð Extension to dwelling Ð 6 St. HelenÕs Close, Croyde. It was resolved to recommend approval. (g) Application for a Certificate of Lawfulness in respect of sub-division of dwelling to form 2 dwellings, erection of garage, sheds and greenhouse and siting of 1 caravan Ð Fairleigh, Georgeham. The Council had been asked for any information which it is felt would assist in determining the Application. The following reply to be sent: we have accessed local knowledge which confirms that the building was split in two at some point in the past, we think approximately 10 years ago from now. The same source of information does not recall ever seeing a caravan on the site, and neither can any of the Parish Councilors. (h) 43221 Ð Demolition of hotel & erection of 7 units of holiday accommodation together with erection of 1 dwelling Ð Croyde Bay House Hotel, Croyde. This showed 6 units and 1 dwelling on the plan and not 7 units and 1 dwelling as per the preamble. The applicant spoke about the positive discussion when the application was previously discussed in August and had returned with an application which addressed these points. Councillor Maskell declared a personal interest due to the use of the applicantÕs agent as his architect. The application number was in fact 43222. Councillor Miss R Brian proposed approval. Seconded by Councillor Mrs V Meek. An amendment was tabled by Councillor Mrs J Barnes to propose refusal on the grounds that it not in keeping with the loss of hotel facilities and a perceived over development of self catering and development in a sensitive area. Seconded by Councillor Harrison. Vote for amendment Ð propose refusal: 4. Vote for approval: 2 with 1 abstention. Refusal carried. (i) 43222 - Demolition of hotel & erection of 6 units of holiday accommodation together with erection of 1 dwelling Ð Croyde Bay House Hotel, Croyde. This showed 7 units and 1 dwelling on the plan and not 6 units and 1 dwelling as per the preamble. Councillor Maskell declared a personal interest due to the use of the applicantÕs agent as his architect. The application number was in fact 43221. Councillor Symonds proposed approval. Seconded by Councillor Mapp. Councillor Mrs J Barnes proposed refusal on the same grounds as the Page 5 Ð 26.10.06 previous Application. Vote for approval: 5, and2 abstentions. Proposal to approve carried. (j) 43158 Ð Demolition of existing garage, erection of garage/studio and demolition of single storey extension and erection of 2 storey extension Ð Wester David, Georgeham. Councillor Symonds proposed recommend approval with the caveat that the studio does not become a separate unit of accommodation. Seconded by Councillor Miss R Brian. Vote. 6 for and 1 abstention. Carried. (k) 43122 - Extension to dwelling with conversion to garage to provide additional living accommodation Ð 10 Davids Hill, Georgeham. It was resolved to recommend approval. (l) 43121 Alterations to rear of shop- The Old Cream Shop, 8 Hobbs Hill, Croyde. Councillor Maskell declared a personal interest, remained in the room but did not take part in the decision/vote. It was resolved to recommend approval. (m) 43059 - Erection of Sports Pavilion with showers and changing facilities Ð Georgeham Play Field, Newberry Road, Georgeham. It was resolved to recommend approval. A discussion followed on the relocation of the childrens play area. Members were assured that there is a play park now and there will be in the future. It belongs to the Parish Council and it may be that it will be necessary to replace the equipment. In Croyde Play Park which has recently been dealt with but suffers vandalism. The Play ParkÕs surface at Georgeham has been surface cleaned with the grouting still outstanding. (3) Planning Correspondence: PLANNING ITEMS FOR INFORMATION ONLY. (4) To Note the following NDDC Decision Notices. APPROVALS 42762 Ð Erection of conservatory & internal alterations to dwelling at Byecross House, Buckland Road, Georgeham. 42895 Listed Building Application for 2 rooflights at Gibbs (formerly Lyncroft), North Buckland. 42843 Demolition of existing garage and extension to dwelling (amendments to Planning Permission 41349) at Jindalee, Darracott, Georgeham. REFUSALS 42780 Ð Retrospective application for temporary siting of 2 portable storage containers at Baggy Lodge (formerly Middleborough Cottage), Baggy Point, Croyde. Page 6 Ð 26.10.06 42313 Change of use of Chapel to residential (amended description) (amended plans) at The Chapel, Watery Lane, Croyde. (5) It was noted that an email had been sent to the Enforcement Officer regarding Mountain Ash Cottages, St. MaryÕs Road, Croyde in respect of possible unauthorised works. A report was awaited. (6) Planning Inspectorate Correspondence. The following was noted: Application No. 40929 Ð summerhouse at Putscombe, Putsborough. The Appeal has been ALLOWED. Application No. 41101 Ð land adjacent to Fairleigh, Georgeham. The Appeal has been DISMISSED. 80. MATTERS ARISING. (i) Billy Budds/Thatched Barn Appeal. Councillor MaskellÕs proposals regarding concerned members of the public. Deferred to the November Meeting. (ii) Barnstaple Local Service Group reply to Mr N Humphries. Copy corrspondence received. Noted. (iii) J & J Bins. New dog waste bins now available, green or red. Supply and fit £85. Pre used bins are no longer available due to poor supply/quality. Noted. (iv) Details of events/courses already circulated to Councillors. Noted. (v) Mr B Beaman. Email received regarding SWWÕs proposals to install a new storage tank on the Lime Kiln Field at Croyde. Mr Beaman was present and the Chairman updated him and the meeting with the current position which was that the project had been approved, detailed design was nearly completion and the order for the large diameter pipes would be placed shortly. It would take approximately 4 weeks for the pipes to be manufactured and delivered to the site. The contractors plan to start the work on 20 November and in the interim, preparatory work will take place. It was anticipated that construction will take place during January 2007 with the reinstatement of the field taking place in February. Mr Beaman said he had Minutes which noted that it was not envisaged to have another storage tank, there had been no planned open day and no final meeting. In addition, data had never been passed on. He was concerned about lack of information from SWW and that the Parish Council has not followed it up. He will send a copy of a letter to Councillor Miss R Brian who would draft a letter for the Clerk to forward. (vi) NDDC. Review of Post Offices. The Parish Council has been asked for its views on the role that Post Offices play within the local community. A response was required by 3/11/06. (vii) NDDC. Local Democracy Campaign Ð Competition. Open to young people aged between 12 and 16, they are encouraged to enter putting forward their ideas for a community project they think will benefit the people of North Devon. The project must not cost more than £5,000 to create and must be of benefit to the local community, be environmentally sustainable, and have support from the community. Expression of interest forms to be submitted by 15/12/06 and the closing date for completed application forms is 28/2/07. (viii) NDDC. Register of Electors. Information required in relation to properties who have not returned their electoral form. This is a new duty which has been imposed on the Electoral Registration Officer and a list of the properties in question is Page 7 Ð 26.10.06 required to be updated through local knowledge. Members did not agree that the form should be completed. 81. ACCOUNTS AND PAYMENTS. (i) Balances. Current A/c National Savings A/c As at 31/8/06 33613.69 Receipts Nil Payments Previously Authorised 2133.49 BALANCE AT 30/9/06 £31,480.20 £13,917.02 This does not take into account the £14,985.00 received in respect of 50% NDDC Precept/Grant. (ii) The following payments were approved: Mr S Wightman. Grass Cutting. £ 546.71 NDDC Recharge of Salaries £2,582.80 J J Bins Dog Bin Emptying for September 2006 £ 169.00 South West Water. Water supply at the public toilets, Georgeham. £ 98.32. (iii) The receipt of 50% Precept/Grant from NDDC amounting to £14,985.00 which had been banked was noted. (iv) It was noted that NDDC had contacted the Parish Council regarding the increase in the National Minimum Wage on 1 October 2006 in respect of Mr J Humphries salary. In the circumstances, the Clerk had completed the change of details form so that the Parish Council complies with NMW regulations. (v) Details obtained for a Lloyds TSB Business 30 Day Notice Account. Deferred to the November Meeting. (vi) Event cover paid for Summer Fete to raise funds for community sports facility of which reimbursement had been requested from Braunton Parish Council from funds held by them as a result of the Parish Plan process. (vii) It was noted that the Parish Council have registered with EDF Energy for the Prompt Pay Scheme. (viii) Tender wording for the 2007/08 season. Deferred to the November Meeting. Page 8 Ð 26.10.06 82. NORTHERN DEVON RURAL AREA COMMITEEE MEETING on 6 November Ð Councillor Mrs V Meek reported on the arrangements to date. Refreshments £5 per head. Councillor Mrs Meek was authorised to implement this. 83. PARISH PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PROPOSALS. Councillors had been circulated with a hard copy. This item to be deferred to the November Meeting. 84. CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTS RECEIVED. (i) NDDC Engineers Department. Update required on sandbags held and location. The form was completed. Councillor Symonds reported due to heavy rain, the lower part of the river was to be cleared. (ii) Letter of thanks received from Mr and Mrs Mountney who were delighted with the personalised card and will always be treasured. 85. PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED. _ NDDC Weekly Members Information Sheet. 86. MEETINGS ATTENDED BY COUNCILLORS. Councillor Symonds. Croyde Village Hall Committee. They will closely monitor bands they employ and have no more than 2 a week. They have identified those bands which seem to draw people intent on causing trouble and will not be booking them in the future. Councillor Mapp attended a meeting of the Braunton Alliance with Councillor Miss R Brian. He advised that as suggested at the last Parish Council Meeting, they made the request that the Committee meets twice a year. Among the other items discussed was the Statement of Community Involvement. The Government White Paper had been published today. On the strength of this, the next Meeting has been delayed until January when the outcome of the White Paper would be known. Councillor Mapp had mentioned the reimbursement of the premium for the Summer Fete to which Mr Brian Holme had agreed. Councillor Mapp had further requested that Mr HolmeÕs Department organise a Road Show aimed at visiting Parishes to inform representatives of Committees and Organisations how to get grants, how to compile a business plan and how to raise income for events. This was apparently already planned for November. Councillor Mrs V Meek. Footpaths. The Georgeham footpath review starts next year. 87. URGENT MATTERS BROUGHT FORWARD BY CHAIRMAN. None. The next Meeting would be on Thursday, 23 November at 7 p.m. in Georgeham Village Hall. The meeting ended at 10.25 p.m. MINUTES OF A SITE MEETING HELD BY GEORGEHAM PARISH COUNCIL ON FRIDAY, 27 OCTOBER 2006 AT 8.30 A.M. PRESENT: Councillor J Symonds (Chairman), Councillors Miss R Brian, M Harrison, N Mapp, S Maskell, Mrs V Meek. 88. PLANNING APPLICATION NO. 43034 Ð Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of new dwelling Ð The Mead, Withywell Lane, Croyde. It was proposed to recommend refusal by Councillor Symonds and seconded by Councillor Mapp. Vote: 5 for, 1 against. Carried. The reply to include the following comments: "The proposed development is perceived as too large a footprint for this site. The proposed development would overpower adjoining properties being too bulky and too high. If this site is to be redeveloped the Parish Council would expect to see a bungalow on this site.