MINUTES OF GEORGEHAM PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 2009 AT 7PM IN GEORGEHAM VILLAGE HALL. PRESENT: Councillor R Tucker (Chairman), Councillors Mrs P Barker (District Councillor), M Harrison, S Maskell, Mrs V Meek, Mrs L Slade. Also in attendance: County Councillor Mrs C Chugg, 3 members of the public and Mrs S Squire, Parish Clerk. 48. Apologies. Councillors J Symonds, Mrs S Hood, E Short, district Councillor M Wilkinson. 49. Approval of the Minutes of the Meetings held on 30 July 2009. These were approved and signed as a correct record. 50. Representations from the Public. No matters were raised. 51. Declarations of Interest. 51.1 Councillor R Tucker declared a Prejudicial Interest in Minute No. 53.2 Planning Application No. 48809. 52.2 Councillor Mrs P Barker made the following Statement: I shall consider the Applications under Minute No. 53.2 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. 52. Reports: 52.1 Police. The Police briefly called to say they hoped to attend later in the Meeting, arriving at 8.25pm to report the following: _ PC Paul Greening advised the names of the Officers responsible for certain duties in Braunton Police Station. _ There had been a burglary at Kittiwell House on 4/5 August involving the theft of money, wine anda mobile. Forensics were involved and were waiting for checks to be done. _ Report of the theft of an unattended bag at Billy Budds. _ 5 thefts from Croyde Beach in the last 4 days. This was the reason he was late this evening, helping a lady with6 children whose bag had been stolen while they were in the sea, together with the daughter's bag. _ Theft of money box from St GeorgeÕs Church. There was currently a trend for rural Churches to be attacked in this way. _ He alerted the Meeting about people going around operating sharp sales practice particularly Mortgage Solutions and EDF Energy. Internet fraud was also mentioned. _ Anti-social behaviour to the telephone kiosk. There was no connection to the damage sustained in the village last year, where the offender had received a caution. _ There were parking issues at the top of the road at Putsborough. Highways had provided a definitive answer that the Clearway does not come under the remit of the Police. If vehicles are parking, they are breaching the Clearway Order as regards emergency services. 52.2 County Councillor Mrs C Chugg. She advised on a Site Meeting at Moor Lane with DCC Official, Mr James Anstee. Moor Lane, James Anstee came. Letters are to be sent to householders regarding Compulsory Purchase Orders so that the road can be made wider and a footpath provided. Councillor Tucker spoke about the historical details and felt that a footpath for the safety of the numerous people who walk along that road was long overdue. Councillor Tucker commented on the Footpath which runs from the top of Jones's Hill to the Garage. The official Footpath was on the other side of the road and at a previous Site Meeting, it was seen that the tarmac forked which was to be amended to show the Footpath crossed the road. Councillor Maskell advised that it worked satisfactorily going down the hill, but was a problem when walking up. Councillor Mrs Chugg was of the opinion that it was not going to be altered, but would pass on the Parish Council's representations, requesting a Site Meeting. Action Point: The Clerk to also follow this up. Parking Charge Time at Croyde Car Park. There had been no reply to the representations made due to Mr M Williams being on holiday. District Councillor suggested this issue was incorporated with the Site Meeting mentioned above. Also correspondence re Martin Williams. No reply as on holiday. 52.3 District Councillor Mrs P Barker. There was nothing relevant to report. 53. PLANNING. 53.1 Matters Arising. Unauthorised Development. An update had been sent to Councillor Symonds. Action Point: Deferred to the September Meeting. Stationing of a caravan on land to North of Higher Stentaway, Broadway Lane, Croyde. The same comments apply as for the Unauthorised Development. Unauthorised Summer House at Baggy Lodge. The same comments apply as for the above two issues. 53.2 The following Planning Applications were considered: 48809 - Erection of replacement porch at The Anchorage (formerly Orchard House), Putsborough Road, Putsborough. Councillor Tucker declared a Prejudicial Interest, left the room and did not take part in the discussion or decision thereon. It was proposed by Councillor Mrs Barker to elect Councillor Maskell as Chairman for this item only. Seconded by Councillor Harrison and agreed by all. It was resolved to recommend approval. 48860 - Retrospective Application for the change of use of agricultural land to form domestic curtilage & erection of shed at Sunny Ash Corner, Georgeham. Councillor Mrs Barker abstained from perusing and discussing the Application, or taking part in the decision. A Statement of Support from the Applicant was read to the Meeting by the Chairman. The Chairman spoke about historic details from memory. The applicants gave details of the plan and provided additional information. It was proposed by Councillor Harrison to recommend approval on the basis that the scale is quite small with minimal impact on the Parish. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Slade. Councillor Maskell asked for the following sentence to be added. The Parish would hope that this would not lead to setting a precedent to the rest of the Parish. Vote: 5 in favour, 1 abstention. 53..3 The following Scoping Request Opinion was considered: 100114 - Proposed wind farm on land at Great Shelfin Farm, Ilfracombe. It was proposed by Councillor Maskell to recommend approval. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Slade. Vote: 4 in favour, 2 abstentions. 53.4 Planning Correspondence: The following North Devon Council Decision Notices were noted: APPROVALS 48496 - Erection of stables at land at Darracott (PT OS 6619), Darracott, Georgeham. 48375 - Outline Application for erection of one dwelling (amended plans) at Garden of 10 Cloutmans lane, Croyde. 48573 - Change of use of land to allow car parking 08.00 - 20.00 for 49 days between Whitsun & August Bank Holiday each year (amended description) at Field No. 5068 land off Moor Lane, Croyde. Copy to RT. 48546 - Listed Building Application for one replacement casement window at barn opposite Rose Cottage, 31 St Mary's Road, Croyde. 48641 - Demolition of existing & erection of new garage with first floor store/games room at Woody End, Bottoms Lane, Darracott, Georgeham. Councillor Mrs Barker suggested a separate Meeting to discuss the Parish's involvement in the Core Strategy to 2026, suggesting that this Council need a plan to be flexible fort the future. Action Point: To be an agenda item at the September Meeting. 53.5 It was noted that the Appeal in respect of Planning Application 47279 - 12 Leadengate Fields, Croyde had been dismissed. 53.6 Councillor Mrs Hood had received representations with concerns over work at Baggy Lodge, in particular over the owner's intention for work under the large scaffolding and what looked to be a parking area half way up the hill. It was noted that Enforcement Officer Mr S Harrington was investigating this issue. 54. MATTERS ARISING. 54.1 Tourist Signing - Chapel Farm Craft Gallery, Croyde. It was noted that the sign had been fixed. 54.2 Choice Cottages Signs. The Clerk reported on a telephone conversation with the proprietor of the business where it was advised that the usual brightly coloured sign had been replaced with a more neutral colour. The proprietor would appreciate guidance as to the type of sign which could be fixed and noted that there were many other signs in and around the Croyde area. Action Point: A reply to be sent suggesting that she makes contact with DCC Highways in respect of signage information and guidance contained in a very instructive brochure available. 54.3 Flower Beds in the Car Park. Councillor Mrs Meek reported on her conversation with Mr Kerr who was not able to take it over the responsibility. Action Point: Councillor Tucker advised that he and Councillor Symonds would be in the car park early in September to carry out outstanding works when this item would be given attention. 54.4 Car Park Barrier. It was noted that the work had been carried out. The locking mechanism had not received any work. Action Point: This item to be examined by Councillors Tucker and Symonds. 54.5 Councillor Grant for new Swing in Croyde Play Park. It was noted that the Clerk had submitted the Application for the Grant. It was further noted noted that Councillor Maskell had obtained a quotation for the swings and that the Clerk had prepared a cheque with all 4 signatories ready to be sent when authorisation regarding the Grant was known. 54.6 DVLA/Abandoned Cars in the Car Park. It was noted that further information had been required by the DVLA before any information could be given and to note that the Clerk had provided the details required. Councillor Tucker advised of a conversation with Councillor Symonds regarding wheel clamps. Research to be carried out. Action Point. To be an item on the September Agenda. 54.7 Lighting in the Glebe Field Car Park. It was noted that SEC Lighting Services had been advised that Councillors would be carrying out the work next month. 54.8 Lighting and Parking Charge Time in Croyde Car Park. Correspondence was noted with Mr M Williams of North Devon Council to which no acknowledgement or reply had been received. It was also noted that County Councillor Mrs Chugg had been in correspondence with Mr Williams regarding the car park, as reported under Minute No. 52.2. 54.9 Lengthsman Visit to Croyde. It was noted that the details advised at the July Meeting had been sent to North Area Highways and acknowledged. 54.10 Water being drained onto road at Ruda. It was noted that details advised at the July Meeting had been sent to North Area Highways and acknowledged. 54.11 Byecross Pool. It was noted that a Meeting between Highways and Councillor Tucker had taken place and a subsequent letter to the owner of 'Coppice' regarding the situation had been sent. Councillor Tucker followed this up by advising that the pipe itself was in order but the stream level had risen. The owner had agreed to make remedial improvements. 54.12 Road from Braunton to Georgeham. It was noted that details advised at the July Meeting had been sent to North Area Highways and acknowledged. 54.13 Skateboard Ramp at Georgeham Play Park. Councillor Tucker had not had an opportunity to inspect this. Action Point: Councillor Maskell advised that he would carry out an inspection. 54.14 Sandy Lane. Correspondence from North Area Highways was noted apologising for a lack of reply and confirming that the issue was being investigated. Action Points: Councillor Mrs Barker would also send a reminder. Councillor Harrison would also contact the Public Rights of Way Warden. To be an item on the September Agenda. 54.15 Dog Bin - Sandy Lane. It was noted that this had been fixed with J & J Bins being advised of the re- location across the lane. They were further advised that the new bin required opening by a key which Councillor Symonds had and it was suggested they contact him for handing over for ease of access. 55. Accounts & Payments 55.1 Balances. Current A/c Business Instant Access A/c As at 04/08/09 1,893.48 45,584.97 Transfer 5,000.00 Payments 594.08 As at 07/08/09 6,299.40 40,584.97 Due to very little Account usage, the Bank Statement covered a very short period. Budgetary figures for July were circulated. The Clerk advised that a number of Exclusive Right of Burials were being sold. Cemetery charges to be considered for the next financial year. 55.2 The following payments were approved: Mrs S Squire Broadband £ 3.00 Photocopying £ 13.77 £ 16.77 Buckleigh Laundry Rental of hand driers in public toilets £ 14.19 Mr S M Wightman Grounds Maintenance at Cemetery for July 2009 £ 179.59 Grounds Maintenance for village sites for July 2009 £ 484.34 TOTAL £ 663.93 J & J Bins Dog Bin Emptying for July 2009 £ 180.26 North Devon Council Recharge of Salaries April - July 2009 £3,987.80 Audit Commission 2009 Audit Fee £ 327.75 Vanguard 2000 Security Patrols in Croyde Play Park £260.00 £200.00 £460.00 Blue Orange Signs Sign for Playing Field gate £156.95 South West Highway Signs Private Road Sign £69.00 North Devon Council Cemetery Rates £111.10 Correspondence was noted from North Devon Council in this connection with regard to deferral of Business Rates in the 2009/10 financial year. If the Parish Council wished to pursue this, it would make a difference of £6.69 from the total amount to pay. Councillors did not wish to take this further. M Symonds Footpath Maintenance £397.50 Councillor Tucker advised that he had contacted Mr Symonds regarding his excellent work regarding the footpath from Georgeham to Croyde. 56. Correspondence & Reports. 56.1 Glasdon UK. Following the order of a replacement dog bin for Sandy Lane, details received of new Glasdon Products and Special Anniversary Discounts. Noted. 56.2 Barnstaple Town Council. Details of a Planning School being held on Saturday, 31 October 2009 at The Castle Centre, Barnstaple from 9.15am to 4.45pm. Action Point: To be an item on the September Agenda. 56.3 Macmillan Cancer Support. Details of the world's biggest coffee morning. Noted. 56.4 North Devon Council. Letter regarding the Customer Service Centre. Action Point: Councillor Mrs Slade to include the contact numbers in The Crydda. 56.5 Devon Association Community Buildings. Flyer (previously circulated to Councillors) regarding a course for communities involved in capital works projects on 24/9/09 at Beaford Village Hall between 10.30am & 3.30pm. Noted. 56.6 DCC. Details of a Devon Car Free Day - Tuesday, 22/9/09 with posters. Noted. 57. Publications Received. _ NDC Weekly Members Information Sheet _ Helping you to help yourselves. July 2009. _ DAPC Annual Report 2008/09 and details of AGM on 26/9/09. 58. Meetings attended by Councillors/Clerk Councillor Maskell advised of a telephone meeting regarding the MUGA. Due to the promised funding not materialising there was alack of interest and he further explained the situation, feeling enthusiasm will rise when more funding is available. 59. Urgent matters brought forward by the Chairman A letter had been received from CARA requesting a Bus Stop at Croyde Bridge. Historically the Parish Council had felt there was insufficient room for such a structure. A discussion followed. Action Point: Councillor Tucker to approach the owners of the land behind the present Bus Stop to gain their thoughts on the proposal. 60. Matters Raised by Councillors/Clerk appropriate to the Parish not previously covered at this Meeting. 60.1.1 Councillor Symonds had forwarded an email from a person who had a loved one buried at the Cemetery where once again, stones decorating the grave had been removed. He had advised in reply that the matter would be raised at this Meeting. Action Point: The Clerk to acknowledge the email. To be on the September Agenda for a Site Meeting to be arranged. 60.2.2 Councillor Mrs Slade raised the following four points: The toddler play matting was slippery, thought to be caused by overhanging trees. Action Point: Councillors Tucker and Symonds to inspect this. 60.2.2 The hedgerows and trees around the Village Green were overgrown. It was noted that the pathway had recently been attended to. 60.2.3 Mr Fisher had asked if the Parish Council could renew the litter bin by the cobbles. Action Point: District Councillor Mrs Barker to deal with this. 60.2.4 In the Grass Cutting and General Maintenance Tender, an item to 'Sweep and Clean steps to Car Park' was included, with the Tender being awarded to Mr M Symonds. It was noted that this had not been done. Action Point: Councillor Tucker to contact Mr M Symonds regarding this as it was not felt fair to the other Tenderer who had quoted for the work. 60.2.5 Councillor Mrs Meek reported the following: The footpath at Putsborough Close had been re-tarmaced and this was welcomed. 60.2.6 It had been noted that the street sweeper had been in Croyde and after complaining, it had visited Georgeham on the day of this Meeting. 61. Grant Award Policy. It was proposed by Councillor Mrs Meek, seconded by Councillor Mrs Slade and AGREED by all to adopt this as per the wording suggested at the July Meeting. 62. Date of Next Meeting. Thursday, 24 September 2009 at 7pm in Georgeham Village Hall. The Meeting ended at 9.05pm.