MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF AUCKLEY PARISH COUNCIL

HELD ON WEDNESDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 2010 COMMENCING AT 7.00 P.M.

AT THE AUCKLEY PARISH CENTRE

 

·        Present: -  Mrs. J. Worthington (Chairperson), Mr. S. Featherstone (Vice Chairman) Mr. I. Butterfield,

·        Mr. J. Fletcher, Mr. G. Payne, Mrs. S. Platts, Mrs. J. Staniforth, Mr. I. Swainston, Mr. G. Warrender,

·        Mr. B. Martin, DMBC Democratic Services Manager

·        Mr. P. Beavers, Independent Member of the Standards Committee

·        Maria Pratt Police Community Safety Officer

1.   Standards Committee’s Engagement with Parish and Town Councils

      Mr. Martin (DMBC) and Mr. Beavers (Standards Committee) explained the workings of the Standards

      Committee and answered questions on the Code of Conduct.  Council was informed that 2 independent

      members of the Standards Committee are present at all Doncaster Council meetings.  

      There is a suggestion that the Standards Board might be abolished, but if this happens then something

      similar will have to be put in its place.  There has also been a proposal to make serious breaches of the

      Code a criminal offence.   Mr. Martin and Mr. Beavers were thanked for attending the meeting to explain

      these matters and answer questions.

2.   Public Participation  - None.

3.   To Receive Apologies – None received.

4.   Declarations of Personal and Prejudicial Interests     

      Mrs. Worthington declared a personal interest in Item No. 22 b)  (planning application 23 Norwood Ave)

      Mr. Butterfield declared a personal interest in Item No. 9 (complaints re. Common Lane pumping station)

      Mr. Warrender declared a personal interest in Item No. 9 (complaints re. Common Lane pumping station)

5.   To Approve Minutes of the Previous Meeting Held on 13 October 2010

      The minutes were approved and signed as a true record.

6.   Matters Arising from the Above Minutes

a)      Rubbish at Eastfield Lane – Neighbourhood Officer has placed a ‘No Tipping’ sign on the gate leading to the copse.   However, Highways has advised him that DMBC does not own land beyond the Council bungalows and is therefore not in a position to remove the rubbish.

d)       

 

b)      Parking Congestion, School Lane – It was reported that PCSO’s and CSW’s have visited School Lane

c)       Sandhill Rise – The Manager of the Housing Association confirms that a meeting did take place to discuss the allegations of anti-social behaviour and outlines what action will be taken.   

      RESOLVED – Agreed to write and enquire whether this behaviour is covered under the Tenancy

      Agreement.

d)      Ponding, First Avenue – N.Officer reports there is currently no ponding or any blocked gullies.  He will monitor the area and contact David Smith of Peel if gullies become blocked.

e)       Ponding, Hurst Lane/Larch Avenue – Works are due to commence on 8 November.

f)        Clothes Bank at Car Park – The bank has been re-located adjacent to the paper bank.  So far no rubbish has been seen around the container, but if the problem re-occurs N. Officer will contact the organiser and have it removed.

g)       Hayfield Amenity Centre – DMBC Enforcement Officer notes the concerns of Council in resolving such issues, however these are complex matters brought about and compounded by the conditions which are proving to be somewhat problematic in achieving a satisfactory compliance.  These issues have been ongoing for some considerable time and previous attempts to resolve such have been met with little success, therefore at this time evidence is being collated with a view to achieving full compliance with relevant conditions.  Should the current occupier not comply with his request he will consider the proper course to be taken in this matter.

h)       Derelict Building, Hayfield Lane – The Planning Investigation Officer reports that the Planning Officer dealing with the site application is currently on leave and therefore cannot report on whether the application has progressed any further.  He has written to the owner to remove the debris.

 

 

 

 

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6.  Matters Arising (continued)

i)         Public Footpaths – Footpaths Officer advises that she will check progress with regard to the sign for PF No. 7, and contact the owner of the overhanging trees at PF No. 2 River Way.  The Clerk to report that the conifers are not only overhanging but appear to be growing on the footpath itself.

j)        Overgrown Trees and Hedge, Spey Drive Play Area – N. Officer reports that the trees have been inspected, remedial work is required and the residents have been informed.  The ivy has been cut back from the resident’s fence.

k)      Sand Deposits on Hurst Lane – DMBC’s Highways has informed the N. Officer that the quarry is not obliged to install a wheel wash.  No significant sand was present on his visits, but he will liaise with the quarry if the highway needs cleansing between scheduled cleanses.  The cleansing team to be instructed to clean out the inverted gullies.

l)         Ponding, Main Street Near The Green – N. Officer has contacted Highways and asked for an indication as to what work is required and the timescales involved, as although the gulley was cleansed it was noted that an inspection was required underground.

m)     Blocked Gulley, Dart Grove – Gulley has been inspected and was not blocked – probably overflowed due to large volume of water at the time draining from the adjacent play area.

n)       Conifer Trees at Main Street – Following request the resident has now trimmed back the trees.

o)      Dog Fouling – DMBC’s Dog Warden deals mainly with lost or stray dogs rather than enforcement patrols.  This role lies with N. Officers and CSW’s who will continue to carry out periodic patrols.

p)      Litter at Hayfield Green Bus Stop – N. Officer will ensure the area is cleansed and he and CSW’s will monitor.

q)      Parked Cars, River Way – The daughter of the resident at River Way has sent copies of her letter to the Mayor and Caroline Flint, M.P.

r)        Signal Lights Outside Park and Ride Site  - A reminder to be sent to Highways.

s)       Request for Safety Barrier at Main Street Bus Stop – DMBC Highways advises that due to the foot path being a metre in width 450mm clearance is required to install a pedestrian barrier.  The brick wall does not allow for sufficient width and a barrier might force pedestrians with pushchairs to step onto the road.

7.  Community Police Report

     PCSO Maria Pratt reported on the following:

     Crime Statistics

     September – 5 incidents reported including burglary, theft and neighbourhood disputes

     October     -  2 incidents of criminal damage

     A man from Bircotes has been sentenced to 5 years in prison for committing a number of crimes including

     6 burglaries in Auckley.

     Trick or Treat Celebrations – No offences occurred in Auckley or the Southern area.

     Monitoring Vehicle Speeds – PCSO Pratt took 30 pupils (Year 6) from Auckley School to monitor traffic

     speeds on Main Street.  Only 2 drivers were slightly over the 30 mph speed limit.

     Problems at Sandhill Rise – Two households are involved.  Julie Gibbon is working with other agencies

     to address this problem.

     A member of Council reported possible evidence of drug abuse was found on Public Footpath No. 1.

8.  District Councillor’s Report – District Councillor was unable to attend.

9.  To Consider Complaints from Residents Re. Pumping Station

     Three residents have made complaints regarding the dilapidated state of the pumping station at Common

     Lane with the roof being covered with a blue tarpaulin for almost a year.  In addition tankers have been

     arriving at 7.30 a.m., parking on Common Lane and pumping all day.  This leads to the lane becoming

     congested and mothers with children have to walk on the road because of the parked tankers.    

     RESOLVED – It was agreed to write and ask Severn Trent whether a representative could meet with

     Council to discuss this matter.

 

 

 

 

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10.To Consider Letter from Landowner Re. Loss of Bus Shelter

     The owner of the land advises that he is prepared to donate the land on which the bus shelter formerly

     stood subject to the following: a) The shelter is not constructed of glass, b)  He is allowed to see what

     type of construction is proposed, c)  A date is decided for the construction of the shelter.  Subject to these

     conditions being agreed in writing by both parties he would be prepared to donate the land to the Council.

     RESOLVED  - Following discussion, Mr. Warrender proposed that Council goes ahead and accepts the

     offer, this was seconded by Mr. Fletcher, and the motion was carried.  SYPTE to be asked for advice re.

     types of shelters and whether there is any possibility of the Authority contributing towards the cost.

11.Report of Meeting to Discuss Play Equipment

     Five Members of Council and the Clerk met with Neighbourhood Manager, Debbie John-Lewis and

     Ann Sims, Community Parks.   The latter advised that following withdrawal of the Playbuilder Phase 2

     funding some monies have been awarded to the Authority, however, it is likely this funding will have to

     be spent by 31 March 2011 which would be almost impossible for Council to achieve.  The Planning

     Officer has inspected the site and favours the equipment being sited to the left of the pavilion which

     would meet requirements of being 30 metres from the nearest dwelling, although this would not please

     some of the residents.  Council firstly needs to employ a Landscape Architect to advise on location and

     design a suitable scheme, and he will also commission a Flood Risk Assessment.  A Phase 1 Study by an

     external group is also required – cost £500 - £1,000.   DMBC’s Architect would charge 10% .

     RESOLVED – Mr. Featherstone is to ask a local Architect whether he would be able to design a scheme.

     The Clerk to ask Ann Sims whether there would be any snags in the event of contracting it outside DMBC

     Mr. Fletcher informed Council that the Auckley Football Club is willing to bid for funds.

12.To Discuss Problems Concerning Local Bus Services

     Council was informed that buses on the Doncaster/Finningley route are frequently late or not turning up at

     all.  A Finningley Community Group has arranged a public meeting for 23rd November with SYPTE and

     a representative from the First Bus Company.

     RESOLVED – It was agreed to organise a meeting with SYPTE and the bus company for members of

     the Parish Councils of Auckley, Blaxton and Cantley with Branton.

13.Matters Relating to BT Telephone Kiosk

     a)   To Consider Quotations to Paint Kiosk – Quotations received from ‘Need a Hand’ to paint the outside

           and interior of the kiosk.  Another quote to be invited from a local painter and decorator.

b)      To Consider Displaying a Street Map in the Kiosk  - A street map has been downloaded from the internet but cannot be displayed until painting is complete.

14.Matters Relating to Christmas Celebrations:

     a)   To Consider Ordering a Christmas Tree for The Green – Council agreed at the October meeting to

           use a Spruce tree growing on The Green, if practicable, rather than purchase one from Plevey’s. 

           An electrician who has been engaged for a number of years to connect the lights to the electricity

           supply has informed the Clerk that he is unwilling to carry out work on the existing tree because 

           trailing leads approx. 4 feet from the supply to the tree would be hazardous.   In addition, he considers

           that the existing tree is too fragile to bear the current lights which are quite heavy.

           The Clerk advised Council that the deadline to order a tree from Plevey’s was 11th November. 

           RESOLVED – In view of these concerns it was agreed to suspend Standing Orders to rescind the

           decision made in October under Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12 para. 42.  Following this,

           Mr. Payne proposed that Council orders a 20 foot high Serbian Spruce from Plevey’s to be situated on

           The Green at a cost of £510 + VAT  Mr. Featherstone seconded the proposal, and the motion was

           carried. The electrician to be asked to set out in writing why the existing tree is not suitable.owev

b)      To Discuss Carol Singing – The Clerk has reminded the band, and obtained a Street Collection

      Licence.  The resident who will act as Santa has confirmed that he will be appearing.

c)       Father Christmas Outfit – Permission was given for Cantley with Branton Council to borrow the Father Christmas outfit owned by Auckley Council.

 

 

 

 

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15.To Discuss Council Web Site

     Members were asked for their suggestions to update the site in time for the December meeting.

16.To Consider Council’s Response to Correspondence Re Encroachment of Recreation Ground

Council has received a letter from the resident in question via his solicitor.  The resident flatly denies that

he is responsible for the removal of trees, soil or rubble from the reclaimed land.   Council agreed that the reclaimed area is in a terrible state and further deterioration will occur if remedial work is not undertaken in the near future to restore it to its previous state. 

RESOLVED – Following discussion Mr. Warrender proposed that Council accepts the quotation submitted by ‘Need a Hand’ in the sum of £470 to remove the trees, disperse the soil, remove stones and debris and re-seed the area of reclaimed land.  Mrs. Staniforth seconded the proposal, and the motion was carried.   

It was agreed to write and ask the occupier of the adjoining dwelling to place his wheelie bins on his own garden, rather than on the path running between the two properties which is a designated right of way.

17.To Decide Items for Newsletter - It was agreed to submit the following items:

            Christmas Events – Dates  and details of Christmas Market and Carols Round the Tree

            A request for residents to park vehicles on their drives, rather than on the highway

            To inform drivers (excluding disabled drivers) that parking on double yellow lines in front of

            the shops is not allowed

            Bus Shelter – Council is liaising with the landowner to try and reach a satisfactory conclusion.

            Problems Relating to Local Bus Service – Council is arranging a meeting with SYPTE

            Neighbourhood Manager thanked for arranging for funding of Christmas tree and lights at Hurst Lane 

18.To Discuss Highway Matters

     It was reported there are some small potholes on the highway surface at Gatehouse Lane, and the road

     outside the entrance to Mosham Quarry has recently been flooded.   

19.To Discuss Recreation Matters

     Dog bins, Riverside Park – The Clerk reported that 3 weeks ago the dog bins were full, DMBC was

     notified and they were emptied next day.  The dog bins are emptied every fortnight from October through

     to April, and she queried whether they should be emptied weekly.  It was agreed to leave and monitor.

     Emptying of Litter Bins, Riverside Park - DMBC is at present emptying 2 litter bins due to dog owners

     depositing dog waste in them.  However, since the foliage has been trimmed back another 2 bins have

     been uncovered, and these are also being used by the dog owners.

     RESOLVED – It was agreed to ask DMBC to put the 2 additional bins on the schedule.

20.To Comment on Consultation Paper ‘Better Homes, Better Places Housing Strategy

     Mrs. Staniforth had made a number of comments and members of Council concurred with these.

21.To Receive Report of Meetings:

     a)   PCJCC Meeting – Mrs. Worthington reported that the Double Taxation Grant was discussed and the

           committee voted to continue with no increase.  The ‘Big Society’ was also an item.

b)      Hayfield Lane Recreational Project -  Mr. Swainston reported it has been confirmed that funding has

      been granted from Community Builders, subject to building being started by the end of March 2011. 

22.To Consider Planning Applications:

     a)   No. 10/03021 – Erection of detached house on approx. 0.02ha of land (being resubmission of

           application withdrawn under Ref. 10/01751/FUL on 05.08.10)

           1 Oak Tree Avenue, Auckley

      Council expressed concerns regarding:  infill development, out of character with surrounding area,

      and the proposed development will be well in front of the Walnut Grove building line.

b)      No. 10/02947/FUL – Erection of pitched roof extension to rear of detached bungalow, following

demolition of existing conservatory  -  23 Norwood Avenue, Auckley

Council had no objections or comments to make in respect of this application

 

 

 

 

 

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22.  To Consider Planning Applications (continued)

c)       No. 10/03040/FUL – installation of 3 no. metal gates and soil bunding in order to restrict vehicular

Access (being application under Regulation 3 Town and Country Planning (General) Regulation 1992)  -  Common Lane, Auckley

      Council had no objections or comments to make in respect of this application

23.  To Report Decisions Made by DMBC’s Planning Committee

  There were no decisions to report.    

24.  To Sign Cheques

       Cheque no. 002188 – ‘Officemate’ (Replace unpresented cheque no. 002138)                         £387.75

       Cheque no. 002189 – Auckley Parish Centre (Hire of room for Nov. meeting)                            £24.00

       Cheque no. 002190 – DMBC (Emptying of dog waste bins June – Sept.)                                 £178.51

       Cheque no. 002191 – Select Electrical (Electrical Periodic Test of pavilion)                               £103.06

       Cheque no. 002192 – Rosedale Lighting (Supply full set of Christmas lights)                           £1,050.33

       Cheque no. 002193 – YLCA (Postage for 2 books)                                                                     £1.50andyman’   

25.  To Receive Correspondence

       The All4All Group has again written with regard to The Green.  Their members are disappointed that

       Council does not wish to support them in seeking ‘village green’ status for the Green.  The Group see a

       real benefit being achieved by simple and easily maintained changes to the area which would give the

       community some choices and control over what is done to the area instead of it being controlled and

       and managed by DMBC.

       RESOLVED – Members reaffirmed their earlier decision not to apply for ‘village green’ status.  They

       do not wish to commit funds to this area when they have more important priorities to concentrate their

       efforts on – particularly the provision of new play equipment and other projects for the Parish. 

26.  To Review Handyman’s Contract

       Pursuant to Section 1 (2) of the Public Bodies (admission to Meetings) Act 1960, Council by resolution

       requested that members of the public and press leave the meeting during discussion of the above, due to

       the confidential nature of the item to be discussed.

       Council reviewed the Handyman’s contract.

27.  To Confirm Date and Time of Next Meeting

       It was agreed to hold the next meeting on Wednesday, 8th December 2010, commencing at 7.00 p.m. at

       the Auckley Parish Centre.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                Chairperson ………………………….