MINUTES OF GEORGEHAM ANNUAL PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY, 28 MAY 2009 AT 7PM IN GEORGEHAM VILLAGE HALL. PRESENT: Councillors Mrs P Barker, M Harrison, Mrs S Hood, Mrs V Meek, Mrs L Slade, J Symonds, R Tucker. Also in attendance: 10 members of the public and Mrs S Squire, Parish Clerk. 1. Notice of Financial of Other Interests. Members handed their completed forms to the Clerk for onwards transmission to North Devon Council for updating purposes. 2. Election of Chairman. Councillor Symonds was proposed by Councillor Harrison. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Meek. There were no other nominations and Councillor Symonds was willing to stand. Unanimously agreed by all. 3. Chairman to read and sign Declaration of Acceptance. Councillor Symonds completed the Declaration and read it aloud to the Meeting, witnessed by Councillor R Tucker. 4. Apologies. County Councillor Mrs J Jenkins District Councillor M Wilkinson Councillors S Maskell, E Short PCSO D Kingdon 5. Election of Vice Chairman. Councillor Tucker was proposed by Councillor Mrs Barker. Seconded by Councillor Harrison. There were no other nominations and Councillor Tucker was willing to stand. Unanimously agreed by all. 5a. Election of Parish Council Representatives. Councillor Tucker proposed that all were re-elected en bloc. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Hood and agreed by all. Councillor Mrs Slade mentioned that Councillor Mrs Hood could be on the Parish Plan Sub Committee. Councillor Mrs Meek advised that the Parish Plan was due to be revised in 2010, the Plan being prepared in 2005 had almost been completed and the situation could be review at the time. 6. Presentation regarding management of Georgeham Car Park. Councillor Tucker explained that Mr Millard was unable to attend due to pressure of work. It was noted that the car park did not seem to be experiencing problems at present and the situation would be monitored. Councillor Tucker reminded the Meeting that he and Councillor Symonds had spoken with Mr Williams of North Devon Council regarding the management of it to be carried out by them. The item for the time being, to be omitted from the Agenda. 7. Approval of the Minutes of the Meetings held on 30 April 2009. The Minutes were approved and signed as a correct record. 8. Representations from the Public. Mr D Learmonth addressed the Meeting regarding Chapel Farm Signs. A communication received from him had been forwarded to Councillors to study ahead of the Meeting. He spoke about his Application for Brown Tourist Signs which had been refused. Chapel Farm is the only place which North Devon Council has fined £1,000 for having signs. He had asked if other businesses had been fined and as yet no answer had been received and is dissatisfied with North Devon Council Planning Department. He had carried out extensive personal research in the North Devon area and the Planning Department had declined to take notice and advised that there a large number of similar signs in the area. District Councillor Mrs Barker had been helpful in the situation, and Chapel Farm is in the process of reapplying for Brown Signs. He asked for the Parish Council's full support. Councillor Symonds spoke about the historic details. He did not recall a Brown Sign Application coming before the Parish Council. Mr Learmonth produced a letter from Mr M Easton in the Planning Department to confirm this. Councillor Tucker similarly did not recall the Parish Council ever refusing the Planning Application, considering that the Signs were not a problem adding that the Parish Council would be reluctant to refuse Brown Signs. Mr Learmonth asked the Parish Council to support District Councillor Mrs Barker when he submits an Application for Brown Signs. Councillor Tucker suggested if he has issues with the Planning Department and Enforcement, that this is taken up directly by him. It was suggested by District Councillor Barker that the matter was further considered at the Meeting on the following Tuesday, adding that it was Devon County Council and Highways which requires the permission. Councillor Symonds advised that the Parish Council would never seek to hinder local businesses and it was hoped by all concerned that the issue could be reconciled in the near future. Councillors were in full agreement that they would be in favour of Brown Signs and lobby hard for them. Mr Gibbons. His representation was in respect of underground cabling which he had previously raised at a Parish Council Meeting. It was hoped that the newly formed CIC Group in connection with Fullabrook Wind Farm would be able to assist with funding when the Wind Farm commences producing electricity. Funding was expected in October 2010. A debate followed and Mr Gibbons was asked to make further investigations and report back to the Parish Council Councillors were keen to support this venture. Mr Donovan. He spoke about the Yellow Lines for Millers Brook and was in agreement with this. His concern was regarding no signage to discourage overnight camping and overnight parking which he feared would become more of a problem. A lengthy discussion followed with many issues being raised. The Parish Council agreed to erect an unofficial sign indicating that it was a private road and access with residents parking only. Mr R Hore, owner of 30 Leadengate Close had requested that the dog bin located outside his property was moved across the lane to the old signpost to help alleviate the odour. Councillors Symonds and Tucker to carry out a site survey and advise the Clerk of the decision between Meetings, so that a reply could be sent to Mr Hore. 9. Declarations of Interest. Councillor Mrs P Barker made the following Statement: I shall consider the Applications under Minute No. 11.2 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. 10. Reports: Police. When giving his apologies, PCSO Kingdon advised there had been 3 crimes as follows: _ Criminal damage at Croyde, resulting in the gate of a property in Moor Lane being badly damaged. _ Unattended mobile 'phone went missing in Croyde. _ Assault in Georgeham. Charges were being pressed. County Councillor Mrs J Jenkins. Apologies sent and no report received. District Councillors Mrs P Barker. The Executive Committee was still in the process of being reorganised. It had been decided as a Council to go back to basics and concentrate on good services, a clean and safe environment, a prosperous community and housing. She would continue to keep the Parish Council updated as things change. Portfolio holders will be more up to date with issues. 11. PLANNING. 11.1 Matters Arising. Unauthorised Development Ð Erection of decking & extensions to chalets/lodges at Heather Down, Down End, Croyde. Cllr Maskell had sent drawings and these had been submitted for investigation. Despite two reminders to the Enforcement Officer, no reply had been received. A message had been left for his attention on his return from leave. Stationing of a caravan on land to North of Higher Stentaway, Broadway Lane, Croyde. Despite two reminders to the Enforcement Officer, no reply had been received. A message had been left for his attention on his return from leave. Councillor Mrs Slade asked about the situation and was told the Parish Council would continue to lobby for its removal. Unauthorised Summer House at Baggy Lodge. Despite two reminders to the Enforcement Officer, no reply had been received. A message had been left for his attention on his return from leave. District Councillor Mrs Barker was asked to further investigate these long outstanding issues. She advised that the Planning Department were increasing their enforcement workforce. 11.2 The following Planning Applications were considered: 48375 - Outline Application for erection of one dwelling at Garden of 10 Cloutmans Lane, Croyde. Mr Brooks. He spoke on behalf of his parents who own the next door property and gave reasons for objections to the proposed property. A letter of objection had been sent to North Devon Council Planning Department. They were not against the development, but felt it should be a bungalow where this kind of property could be moved with no turning circle. Mrs Rosenbaum. She spoke in favour. The architects were tweaking the plans to make it more acceptable to the planners. The building was to be moved slightly further away from the boundary line with Mr Brooks property. She understood that all new Applications now had to have adequate turning space. Councillor Mrs Barker proposed that this Council recommend to approve with the following comment: 'This Parish Council would be minded to approve but that the building should come forward towards the highway of Home Farm Close and be a bungalow'. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Meek and unanimously agreed. 48378 - Erection of one unit of Holiday Accommodation at land at Moor Lane, Moor Lane, Croyde. Mr Bremner addressed the Meeting. He had owned the land for 40 years, giving the historic details, which he had now passed to his children. Councillor Symonds gave details of a recent Planning Application and spoke about the area in the past. Councillor Tucker spoke about the way the Parish Council had previously considered Planning Applications. Councillor Mrs Meek proposed to recommend refusal on the grounds that it was outside the development envelope, within the AONB and did not think further new development on this sensitive site was acceptable. Seconded by Councillor Tucker. Vote: 3 in favour. Councillor Harrison proposed approval on the grounds that the site was already degraded because of adjacent properties and that a suitable building could be appropriate. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Slade. Vote: 3 in favour. The chairman used his casting vote and the proposal to recommend approval was carried. Councillor Mrs Barker abstained in the voting process. 48408 - Telecommunications prior approval for erection of one wooden 8 metre pole (6.5 metres above ground) for overhead line connection at The Folly (land adjacent to Higher Stentaway) Croyde. It was resolved to recommend approval. 48455 - Retrospective Application for continued temporary siting of metal containers for use as changing rooms at Georgeham Playing Field, Newberry Road, Georgeham. Because this Application is in the name of the Parish Council, it will not be considered by Councillors. The position was noted which was mentioned in 11.3 Planning Correspondence on the Agenda. 48441 - Notification of works to trees in a Conservation Area in respect of reducing height of leylandii hedge at Rock Cottage, Georgeham. Subsequent to this Application being received, it was noted that the Application had been WITHDRAWN. The notification was not required because the works are 'hedgerow maintenance' and not 'tree works'. 48442 - Application for consent for works to trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order in respect of felling 1 x Ash at 6 Williamson Close, Georgeham. It was resolved to accept the recommendation of the Tree Warden. 48142 - Retrospective Application for the sub-division of one dwelling to form two dwellings at Roylands (& The Old Coach House), Moor Lane, Croyde. It was resolved to recommend approval. 11.3 Planning Correspondence: The following North Devon Council Decision Notice were noted: APPROVALS 48018 - Formation of former window & Juliet balcony (amendment to Application Number 47305) at 11 Cott Lane, Croyde. 48115 - Retrospective Application for erection of roof over parking bay (amendment to Planning Approval 46410) at The Nook, Darracott, Georgeham. An Appeal was noted which had been made in respect of Application No. 47279 - Demolition of existing & erection of new unit of holiday accommodation at Kildarna, Leadengate Fields, Croyde. The Appeal was against the decision of the Local Planning Authority to refuse Planning Permission for the development. The Parish Council did not wish to make any further observations or amend the original response in any way. 12. MATTERS ARISING. 12.1 Sign to discourage motorists - Combas Lane. This had been done. Regarding a sign at Millers Brook, Councillor Tucker to organise on the same basis as the sign in the bus stop at Georgeham. The conclusion was that it would help the residents. 12.2 Village Gateways. Councillor Mrs Hood advised that the Competition had been successful and a concept chosen. A teacher at Georgeham Primary School was preparing a design and it was hoped to present this at the June Parish Council Meeting. A copy to be sent to Mr M Newcombe, Road Safety Officer at DCC for his opinion. 12.3 Proposed No Waiting at Any Time Order Ð Croyde Road and Millers Brook. Councillor Symonds had taken the delay up with Highways as despite this Parish Council making the request in writing on 31 March 2009, as requested, the Order had not been in time for Easter or the two May Bank Holidays and will possibly not now be in for during Oceanfest. Councillors were not willing to put out traffic cones if the Order is not make in time for that event. 12.4 Croyde Adventure Playground. It was noted that Vanguard Security had commenced their annual security patrols. 12.5 RockETS 2009/10 Grant. It was noted that the deadline for submission of applications had been extended to 3/7/09. Councillors Mrs S Hood and J Symonds had been advised. 13. Accounts & Payments. 13.1 Balances. Current A/ct Business Inst Access A/ct As at 31/3/09 2,123.79 43,900.34 Income 50% NDC Precept/Grant 18,437.50 3.84 Payments As previously authorised 1,269.83 ________ Balance as at 30/4/09 19,291.46 43,904.18 13.2 The following payments were approved: Mrs S Squire Broadband £ 3.00 Photocopying £ 13.77 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 Jewson Various Items £ 9.05 Allianz Cornhill Renewal Premium due 1/6/09 £2,062.80 Longclose Ltd. Mirror for entrance to Cemetery £155.25 Vanguard 2000. Security cover for Croyde Play Park. May2009. £100.00 J & J Bins Dog Bin emptying for May 2009 £180.26 Mrs S Squire Petrol Expenses for the last 7 months including contribution for attendance at Parish Council Workshop on 28/5/09 £158.20 Mr M Symonds Work at Cemetery £1,291.00 Mr D Jones £ 48.00 EDF Energy. Electricity supply at toilets £ 25.13 This amount will be taken by Direct Debit on 09/06/09. EDF Energy. Electricity supply at car park £ 59.24 This amount will be taken by Direct Debit on 03/06/09. Councillor Tucker explained the reason for the mirror and additional maintenance in the Cemetery which had not been attended to for many years. He said the kerb edges to the path needed attention as some had fallen sideways. The reason for this was explained and the contractor would be advised. Councillor Tucker advised the Meeting that he had instructed Mr M Symonds of Bay Gardens to remove a large bush at Putsborough Close. Replacement options will be advised in due course. It was emphasised that Mr M Symonds takes instructions from and deals with Councillor Tucker and not Councillor Symonds to conflict of interest. 13.3 It was noted that a letter to Mr S Wightman regarding his charges for work carried out at the Cemetery had been sent and a reply was awaited. To be an item on the June Agenda. 13.4 Review of Clerk's Salary. Councillor Symonds reported that he together with Councillors Mrs Meek, Maskell and Tucker had met to discuss the matter. The conclusion was circulated in writing to Councillors. SCP 21 is the higher grading for Group 2 Parish Council status of which this Parish Council is part of, as recommended by the Devon Association of Parish Councils. Due to debates in previous years it was felt sensible to move to SCP 21 and put the Clerk's salary in line with recommendations by DAPC and thereafter her salary review would be accepted as being recommended by DAPC. No more future debates will ensue. It was proposed by Councillor Tucker, seconded by Councillor Mrs Barker and unanimously agreed to accept the recommendations of Councillors who had reported the result of the Meeting. The situation was acceptable to the Clerk. 13.5 Bank Mandate. A replacement Mandate was completed to include Councillors Mrs P Barker and Mrs S Hood as cheque signatories. 14. Correspondence & Reports. 14.1 Ministry of Justice. Managing the safety of Burial Ground Memorials. Practical advice for dealing with unstable memorials. Taken by Councillor Mrs Meek to summarise. Councillor Symonds was satisfied that the Cemetery was well managed and looked after by the Parish Council. 14.2 DCC. Parish Lengthsman Programme 2009/10 Version 2. The revision did not affect this Parish. 14.3 Sgt J Pearce. Parking Enforcement over the Oceanfest Weekend. He had suggested that should the Parking Order not be in force, cones should be utilised. These details had been sent by the Clerk to Councllor Symonds, who had contacted the relevant Departments who had advised that cones would be made available. As previously mentioned in these Minutes, Councillors would not deal with this issue. Councillor Symonds was of the opinion that the Police were not correct in abdicating their duties. 14.4 DCC. Definitive Map Review - Parish of Braunton: Route 6, Hannaburrow Lane & Hole Lane, Georgeham. It was noted that an Appeal had been made on behalf of the Trail Riders Fellowship against the decision by the Public Rights of Way Committee. The County Council had been asked to make a statement setting out its reasons for refusing the applications and this Council was invited to submit evidence by 8 June. The County Council's statement with supporting documents and any evidence from interested parties would submitted within 8 weeks of notification by DEFRA of the appeal by 7/7/09 and all documentation to be made available for public inspection. It was noted that Councillor Mrs Meek continued to have the Parish Council's mandate to do what she can. She advised that documentation was not available and at this stage the only action is to write letters. If the matter is taken further, there will be an Inquiry. 14.5 DCC. Road closure for drainage works - Bye Cross, North Buckland. The roads affected are Bye Cross, North Buckland, Georgeham, A361 North Buckland Hill to North Buckland. Alternative route is From A361, Spreacombe Bridge, Smallcombe Bridge, Mains Down Lane, Oxford Cross, Bye Cross and vice versa. The closure is from 3/8/09 to 4/8/09. 14.6 North Devon Council. An email had been required asking the Parish Council to take action regarding Croyde Car Park Sign and Overgrown Bushes. To reply that the Car Park sign was being removed, which, it had been noted, had been adjusted to indicate free car parking after 8pm, and that the hedge cutting was not the responsibility of the Parish Council. 15. Publications Received. _ NDC Weekly Members Information Sheet _ Clerks and Councils Direct. May 2009 _ Digital UK. Help for people with the switchover. _ DCC. Admissions to Schools 2010/11. Please keep PC informed. _ Devon Association of Parish Councils. May/June 2009 Newsletter with accompanying leaflets. _ Notice of Poll for Election of a County Councillor for Braunton Rural. 16. Meetings attended by Councillors/Clerk 16.1 It was noted that the Clerk had attended, on the morning of the Meeting, a Parish Council Workshop at Braunton Parish Hall in connection with an update on the Local Development Framework and Sustainable Communities. 16.2 Site meeting at Higher Ham Cemetery with a view to identifying a suitable location for a memorial bench. Councillor Tucker gave a report. While clearing debris from the area, a suitable site was located for a new bench, situated at the top of the tarmac path under a leylandi tree. It was agreed to reply positively to the request from the family who had made the request, advising that all donated seats are to be of the Waveform design. The Parish Council would instruct a contractor to install it and maintain in the future. Both of these items would be funded by the Parish Council. It was advised that the bin was still in place for dead flowers and was regularly cleared. 16.3 Invitation to St BrannockÕs Church Civic Service on 21/6. Noted. 17. Urgent matters brought forward by the Chairman. No matters were raised. 18. Matters Raised by Councillors/Clerk appropriate to the Parish not previously covered at this Meeting. Councillor Mrs Meek. Footpath 1 was becoming overgrown. This to be dealt with by Councillor Harrison. There had been a complaint from a resident in Putsborough Close that cars are being left outside properties by staff at the School. The Head Teacher to be asked to request staff to not park outside property entrances. A person from Explore Devon had advised that villages can be included on their website. 19. Date of Next Meeting. Thursday, 25 June 2009 at 7pm in Georgeham Village Hall. The Meeting ended at 9.46pm.