MINUTES OF GEORGEHAM PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY, 30 APRIL 2009 AT 7PM IN GEORGEHAM VILLAGE HALL. PRESENT: Councillor J Symonds (Chairman), Councillors M Harrison, Mrs S Hood, S Maskell, Mrs V Meek, E Short, Mrs L Slade, R Tucker. Also in attendance: 2 members of the public and Mrs S Squire, Parish Clerk. 174. Presentation regarding management of Georgeham Car Park. This item was deferred to the May Agenda. 175. Apologies. District Councillors Mrs P Barker and M Wilkinson, PCSO D Kingdon. When giving his apologies, he reported the following: There had been 4 crimes, as follows: _ Theft of childÕs wet suit in Croyde in a holiday park which was left to dry outside. _ The possible theft of a handbag at Baggy Point. Visitors went there to have a picnic, the bag was thought to have been left and when a return visit was made, the bag was not there. _ Assault in Hobbs Hill, Croyde involving a man being punched in the face. _ Theft of a number plate from a vehicle parked at a holiday park. 176. Approval of the Minutes of the Meetings held on 26 March 2009. These were approved and signed as a correct record. 177. Representations from the Public. None. 178. Declarations of Interest. There were no Declarations of Interest announced. 179. PLANNING. 179.1 Matters Arising. Unauthorised Development Ð Erection of decking & extensions to chalets/lodges at Heather Down, Down End, Croyde. The Enforcement Officer had sent an email and advised the current position was that he was investigating the decking area further as whilst it could well be considered Ôpermitted developmentÕ he was researching further into the matter as an element of the decking does appear to be raised. He was also waiting for confirmation of the domestic curtilage of the property in relation to the skateboard ramp. The siting of a skateboard ramp within the garden area of a domestic dwelling house would not constitute a change of use of the land. However, if the ramp was sited on agricultural land, this may well constitute a change of use requiring planning permission. The extensions to the property benefit from planning permission (31086) granted on 28/1/02. This Council would be updated when there was more information. A discussion ensued and the wording for a reply was drafted. Further into the Meeting, the owner of the property arrived and the matter was re- visited. He advised that the existing chalet had been demolished. The Chairman explained that a member of the public had made representations to the Parish Council regarding the buildings on the property. He went on to say that the Parish does not get involved with such cases and are passed to the Enforcement Team of North Devon Council. The owner advised that the shed did not have planning permission and explained that the original owner built the shed on the terrace with the possibility of using it for holiday accommodation. It was the present owner's intention to relocate it to make it 'invisible' by the driveway. He further advised that the shed behind the decking was a storage shed and was open on two sides. He was asked if he would be submitting a Planning Application for the two sheds and replied that he would not be doing so unless requested to by the Planning Officer. Councillors felt that the Enforcement Officer was made aware of the overall position and it was proposed by Councillor Symonds that Councillor Maskell draft a sketch of the area for the benefit of the Enforcement Officer. Seconded by Councillor Tucker and agreed by all. Further enforcement cases were discussed and it was noted that the summer house at Baggy Lodge was still in situ. An email from the Enforcement Officer in January referred to the fact that action was being taken for its removal. A reminder to be sent to the Enforcement Officer that the matter was still outstanding and a reply requested in time to report at the May Meeting. The Caravan on land to North of Higher Stentaway, Broadway Lane, Croyde was also discussed, it was noted that the existing caravan was still in situ and needs to be removed. The Enforcement Officer to be reminded about this and a reply required for the May Meeting. 179.2 The following Planning Applications were considered: 48210 Ð Erection of Conservatory at Meadow Cottage, Hobbs Hill, Croyde. It was resolved to recommend approval. 48181 Ð Erection of Conservatory at 11 Davids Hill, Georgeham. It was resolved to recommend approval. 48279 Ð Extension to dwelling at 6 Broad Park Close, Croyde. It was proposed by Councillor Harrison and seconded by Councillor Mrs Slade to recommend approval. Councillor Tucker proposed a caveat be applied regarding over filling of the site. there were no seconder for this and the amendment fell. Vote: 7 in favour of recommending approval, 1 abstention. Carried. 48298 Ð Erection of one agricultural building at Broadgate Farm, North Buckland. It was resolved to recommend approval. 48316 Ð Extension and alterations to dwelling at Ramil, Rock Hill, Georgeham. The Applicant was present and was given the opportunity to address the Meeting. It was resolved to recommend approval. 48304 Ð First floor extension to dwelling at Journeys End, Cross, Croyde. It was resolved to recommend approval. 179.3 Planning Correspondence: The following North Devon Council Decision Notice were noted: APPROVALS 47986 Ð Listed Building Application for the replacement of 16 UPVC windows with double glazed hardwood windows at Gibbs, North Buckland. 48062 Ð Demolition of existing & erection of new unit of holiday accommodation at Kildarna, 12 Leadengate Fields, Croyde. A letter was noted from North Devon Council Planning Department in respect of Application 48014 Ð Application for discharge of Condition 8 (details of door and screen partitions) attached to Listed Building Consent 46666 at Pickwell Manor, Georgeham. The Local Planning Authority had confirmed that the details submitted are acceptable. A letter was noted from North Devon Council Planning Department in respect of Application 43963 Ð Temporary siting of metal containers for use as changing rooms (renewal of limited period Planning Permission 38736), Georgeham Playing Field, Newberry Road, Georgeham. The current Application expired on 30/4/09. The letter had been forwarded to the Parish CouncilÕs Architect for the necessary attention and the Chairman and Vice Chairman have been advised of the position. Councillor Tucker spoke about the original plans for 5 years pending the building proposals. Councillor Symonds had spoken to the Planning Officer regarding this. Mr T Richards to be asked to confirm that he had applied for a further extension of temporary Planning Permission. 180. MATTERS ARISING. 180.1 Consideration of creating a Footpath to Higher Ham Cemetery Councillor Tucker advised that the owner was not willing for a footpath to be constructed on his land and the matter was considered closed. 180.2 Frog Street Project. Councillor Symonds advised that District Councillors Mrs Barker and M Wilkinson were liaising with Highways with regard to the land becoming a Parish Council asset. An in depth discussion followed. 180.3 Sign to discourage motorists. The Clerk had sent a reminder. Councillors felt it was imperative that the sign was in place in the next four weeks. 180.4 Village Gateways. Representation from the Parish Council to Georgeham Gateway Forum was noted. Councillor Mrs Hood advised that the childrens competition to produce a design ended that day. She asked if someone from Parish Council wished to be a representative on the Forum, pointing out that she was already connected with this Group and was concerned that the Parish Council felt a more impartial person should represent them. Councillor Symonds said the whole issue would need liaising with Highways to agree a location. In addition planning consent would be required. The decision as to what the final structure would be would rest with the Planning and Highways Departments. There was no reason why the competition could not be judged on its own merits. Councillor Mrs Hood advised that DCC Road Safety Officer Mr M Newcombe was interested in joining the Forum. It was proposed by Councillor Tucker on the grounds that the Parish Council were not in a position to do all the work at all times, that Councillor Mrs Hood continue to be on the Forum. Seconded by Councillor Symonds and agreed by all. Councillor Symonds stressed that the Council should decide what was wanted and the location, obtain estimates and then apply for a RockETS grant, the details and application form of which had been received and printed by the Clerk that day and handed to Councillor Mrs Hood for completion. Once the grant had been obtained, the Parish Council would be in a strong position to advise DCC that funding had been obtained. 180.5 Proposed No Waiting at Any Time Order Ð Croyde Road and Millers Brook. No reply had been received despite a reminder. Councillor Tucker to contact the Maintenance Technician in this regard. 180.6 Unauthorised Cars in the Car Park. The DVLA had replied following a request for the keeper details of two cars which had been dumped in the car park. The details could not be supplied as further information was required which, it was noted, had been included on the application form. Councillor Symonds advised that unless the matter of untaxed cars ceases in the car park then he as Chairman will strongly recommend that it is operated on a pay and display basis. 181. Accounts & Payments 181.1 Balances. Current Business Instant Account Access A/ct As at 28/3/09 1918.48 49,396.62 Receipts LTSB Interest 3.72 Cemetery Fees 19.00 DCC P3 Grant 535.00 Payments As previously authorized 5,848.69 Balance as at 31/3/09 2123.79 43900.34 This takes into account that £5,500 was transferred from the Business Instant Access Account to ensure there were sufficient funds in the Current Account to clear the cheques which were issued during March. 181.2 The following payments were approved: J & J Bins Dog bin emptying for March 2009 £ 84.50 Dog bin emptying for April 2009 £ 96.53 An extra collection was being made at one bin. £ 181.03 Mrs S Squire Broadband £ 3.00 Photocopying £ 13.77 Stationery £ 10.99 Buckleigh Laundry Rental of hand driers in public toilets £ 14.19 Mr S M Wightman Grounds Maintenance at Cemetery for March 2009 £ 179.43 Grounds Maintenance for village sites for March 2009 £ 484.34 TOTAL £ 663.77 North Devon Council Recharge of Salaries. December 2008 to March 2009. £2,778.56 Croyde Youth Club Donation for CroydeÕs massive youth beach clean £ 100.00 Playsafety Limited Inspection fee for Croyde Adventure Play Area, Georgeham Play Area, Croyde Skate Park £ 217.35 Eibe Play Ltd Swing for Croyde Adventure Play Area £1,442.08 To be delivered to Councillor Maskell. Jewson 2 Invoices Ð Gate Catch £2.53 & Hinge £10.25) £ 12.78 South West Highways Sign for Sandy Lane £ 55.20 Councillor J Symonds Reimbursement for gate hinge £ 3.48 181.3 It was noted that the following payments would be taken by South West Water by Direct Debit: Georgeham Cemetery on 1/5/09 £ 8.24 Georgeham Toilets on 1/5/09 £73.53 Councillor E Short left the Meeting. 181.4 A letter from Mr S Wightman regarding his charges for work carried out at the Cemetery was considered. It explained that had had inadvertently been charging the incorrect amount for the last three years and the sum involved £2,6490.50. Councillors were able to understand and see where he had made the mistake and there was no question of doubting the Contractor's integrity. It was proposed by Councillor Maskell that this Council offer the sum of £2,000 + VAT in full and final settlement to rectify his error. Seconded by Councillor Symonds and agreed by all. 181.5 Adoption of the Accounts for the year ended 31/3/09. It was proposed by Councillor Symonds that the Accounts should be adopted. Seconded by Councillor Tucker and agreed by all. 181.6 Completion and Approval of the Annual Return for the year ended 31/3/09. The Clerk read the questions in Section 2 on the Return. It was proposed by Councillor Mrs Slade, seconded by Councillor Mrs Meek and agreed by all that the Return was completed as correct and could be signed by the Chairman and Clerk, ahead of the accounting details being delivered by the Clerk to the internal auditor, Messrs Simpkins Edwards, the following day. 181.7 Vanguard Security Croyde Play Park patrols. It was proposed by Councillor Tucker, seconded by Councillor Mrs Meek and agreed by all to request the patrols to resume as in the past two years. Councillor Symonds to provide a replacement key for the gate, the lock of which had been changed. 181.8 Annual Review of the ClerkÕs Salary as per the Contract of Employment. It was proposed by Councillor Symonds that the salary is reviewed in accordance with the rate of inflation. This will be reviewed the next day after checking. 181.9 North Devon Council. It was noted that a payment of £18,437.50 had been credited to the Current Account in respect of 50% of the Precept (£17,218.50) and Grant (£1,219.00). 181.10 Bank Mandate for new Signatories. This document would be available at the next Meeting for Councillors Mrs Barker and Hood to be included as cheque signatories. 182. Correspondence & Reports 182.1 DCC. Lengthsman visit dates from April 2009 to March 2010 were noted as being 23 & 24 June, 15 & 16 Sept, 1 & 2 Dec, 9 March. These details to be emailed to all Councillors. 182.2 BT. A proposal to make the pay phone at Davids Hill, Georgeham cashless was noted. 182.3 North Devon Council. A Dog Control Order Notice pursuant to s.55 of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 was noted. Representations to be made by 21/5/09. 182.4 North Devon Council/Boundary Committee. Further correspondence regarding the Local Government Review. Noted. 182.5 Catherine Jones. It was noted that the role of Marine Awareness Officer in north Devon ended as at 1/4/09 due to lack of funding. 182.6 Queensbury Shelters Ltd. Details of Bus Shelters. Noted. 182.7 Information CommissionerÕs Office. DVD to help fulfil responsibilities under the Freedom of Information Act. Noted. 182.8 It was noted that letters of congratulations have been sent to Mr S Corner and Mr P Ginnings on their recent election to CIC. 182.9 North Devon Council. Letter regarding Business Rates Erection of sports pavilion with showers & changing facilities at Georgeham Playing Field. The Revenues Manager had written to enquire if the works had been completed. The Clerk had replied advising that this was not the case. 182.10 North Devon Council. Business Rates Deferral Scheme 2009/10. Letter regarding the deferral of payments as announced by the Government. The Council would be writing to all businesses offering the option to defer payments once the Government has made the necessary regulations expected to be in place by the end of July. 182.11 Braunton Police Station. Home Security Surveys. Details had been sent to Councillors and to the Community News Editor of the North Devon Journal for inclusion in the Community News Section. 182.12 DCC. Leaflets ÔMoney Matters". Noted. 182.13 Equality & Human Rights Commission. Letter and pamphlet regarding Public Sector Duties. Noted. 182.14 ROSPA. Inspection Reports for Croyde Adventure Play Park, Georgeham Play Area and Croyde Skate Park had been received, copies of which had been sent to Councillors Symonds, Tucker and Maskell. They would deal with any items requiring attention. 182.15 South West Highways/DCC. A Road Closure was noted on 3/8/09 for a day for drainage works at North Buckland Hill/North Buckland. 182.16 North Devon Council. Parish Council Workshop: An update on the Local Development Framework (LDF) and Sustainable Communities Toolkit. Councillors and the Clerk are invited to the following workshops: Thursday 28 May Braunton Parish Hall 9.30am Ð 12.15pm Monday 1 June Filleigh Village Hall 6.30pm - 9.15pm The Clerk has been booked on the Braunton Venue Workshop. Councillor Mrs Meek wished to attend the Braunton Workshop and the Clerk to book her onto this. 182.17 Devon County Council. Letter regarding Highway Maintenance 2009/10. The County CouncilÕs budget for 2009/10 had been set at £58,895 million. This included a cash increase of 6% for highway maintenance spending and a further £1 million for improving drainage capacity at badly affected spots on the highway. Due to the bad weather experienced during the Winter, a further £2 million has been allocated to ensure that the weather damage suffered during the Winter will be made safe. This would take DCCÕs spending on highway maintenance for 2009/10 to £60,895 million, a cash increase of just over 9.5%. 182.18 Devon County Council. £535 received in respect of the P3 scheme. 182.19 Request for a Bench at Higher Ham Cemetery. Councillors discussed this proposal at length and a site meeting would be arranged to further consider this. It was the Council's policy to have only the Waveform Bench design across the Parish. Debris would also be dealt with at the site meeting. Councillor Maskell suggested that angled mirrors should be fixed to assist drivers going up the hill to see traffic coming down, particularly if they intended to cross the road to enter the Cemetery. This was felt to be a good idea and would be pursued. 182.19 Mr C Burrows. Email regarding the points raised following the ROSPA inspection. As noted in Minute No. 182.14 above, Councillors Symonds, Tucker and Maskell would be dealing with issues raised in the Reports. 182.20 Devon County Council. Rock Environmental Treatment Scheme (RockETS) 2009/10. As advised in Minute No. 180.4, the Application form had been printed and taken by Councillor Mrs Hood to ensure completion and submission by the deadline date of 10/6/09. 183. Publications Received. _ NDC Weekly Members Information Sheet _ The Playing Field. Devon Playing Fields Association Newsletter _ The Common Players present Heathen Harvest 184. Meetings attended by Councillors/Clerk 184.1 A Report was noted from the Clerk following her attendance at a course organised by the Devon Association of Parish Councils entitled "The Power of Well Being". 184.2 A Report was noted from the Clerk following her attendance at a Seminar at Taunton organised by Kompan Play Equipment on 28/4/09. 184.3 A Report was noted from the Clerk following her attendance at a Citizens Jury at North Devon Council in connection with the proposal to remove Clause 7.5 from the Constitution. 184.4 It was noted that the Clerk has been given a place on HM Revenue & Customs Local Councils and VAT Workshop on 17/9/09 in Bristol. 184.5 It was noted that Councillors Symonds, Tucker, Maskell and Short had attended a Meeting called by the Police in connection with Oceanfest 2009. The Police numbers would be on the same level as 2008 but due to a planned earlier finish on the Sunday, officers would also leave earlier. the Festival events would be the same as 2008, finishing on the Friday at 11pm (this would also be an educational day for local Schools), Saturday at 11pm and 6.30 or 7pm on the Sunday. There would be no Section 30 Order applied for by the Police. The bus service would be the same as 2008. The Police had recommended more 'alcohol free zone' signs although it was noted that in this case, they would be expected to arrest individuals. Alcohol related incidents had been low in 2008 but there were incidents with drugs and the same system would apply as in 2008. The beach and dunes would be thoroughly cleaned following the event. Litter collection would be administered by Greensweep which may be a permanent arrangement throughout the Summer. 185. Urgent matters brought forward by the Chairman. None. 186. Matters Raised by Councillors/Clerk appropriate to the Parish not previously covered at this Meeting. Councillor Symonds. Had received a communication from Heritage Signs which was handed to Councillor Mrs Hood as these may be suitable for village gateways. Councillor Tucker. He felt that the Annual Parish Meeting was a good Meeting, especially on a separate day from the scheduled Parish Council Meeting. He suggested that the Agenda for 2010 should receive an overhaul. Councillor Mrs Slade. It was noted that the website had not been updated for some time. The Clerk explained that the domain name host firm had locked the system due to an illegal attempt to access it. This has resulted in a new password having to be given and obtained. In addition, computer problems had been experienced by Mr Squire but it was planned that the site would be brought up to date over the coming weekend. Councillor Mrs Meek. Requested that a notice instructing that no dogs should be allowed in Croyde Play Park should be fixed to the gate. Councillor Tucker to order this. Councillor Mrs Hood. She had received a complaint of foul language on a dog bin which she had dealt with by cleaning it. 187. Date of Next Meeting. Thursday, 28 May 2009 which would be the Annual Parish Council Meeting, incorporating Election of Chairman, Vice Chairman and Parish Representatives. Councillor Maskell gave his apologies in advance. The Meeting ended at 10pm.