MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF AUCKLEY PARISH COUNCIL
HELD ON WEDNESDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER 2010 COMMENCING AT 7.00 P.M.
AT THE AUCKLEY PARISH CENTRE
·
Present: - Mrs. J. Worthington (Chairperson), Mr. S.
Featherstone (Vice Chairman), Mr.
· District Councillor Mrs. Y. Woodcock
· Community Policeman Brian Pyle
· Mr. Michael Eardley, Neighbourhood Services
· Five members of the public
1. Public Participation
a) Village Green - Representatives from the Auckley All4All Group attended the meeting. They had
earlier suggested making improvements to the grassed area on
Highways Dept who gave limited support because of the status of the area, the Authority’s
responsibilities to this location and lack of any guarantees in the future for its maintenance and
general upkeep as a result of any changes. DMBC’s suggestion was that residents should seek
‘Village Green’ status for the area as a first move. Council to discuss this matter later in the meeting
b) Sandhill Rise – A resident expressed concerns regarding anti-social problems occurring at this
location. Mr. Eardley reported that Neighbourhood Services are aware of the ongoing problems and
have been in contact with PC Julie Gibbons.
It was agreed to write to Inspector Cowling and ask for an update on discussions with the various
agencies, and what action needs to be taken.
c) Demolished Bus Shelter – A resident expressed concern that the bus shelter situated adjacent to
been the main shelter for the village, and there are safety issues because passengers now have to
wait on a narrow footway without a safety barrier and no protection against wind and rain.
Mr. Eardley reported that Highways and SYPTE are to undertake a Risk Assessment of the
current site and consider whether a shelter could possibly be installed elsewhere.
2. Neighbourhood Services Report
Mr. Eardley reported on the following matters:
a)
Gating of
before the gates can be installed. One fly tipper has been identified and prosecuted.
b)
Ponding at
c) Dog Fouling – New stencils have been painted on footways.
d) Sand From Quarry – Contact has been made with quarry. Members asked whether DMBC could approach the quarry and request that they provide a wheel wash to reduce sand deposits.
e)
Bin for Unwanted Clothes – Mr. Eardley was informed that a
Salvation Army clothes bank for unwanted clothes and shoes has
recently been installed adjacent to the
f) Sunken Manhole Covers – The member who reported this matter was asked to clarify the location.
3. To Receive Apologies - None received.
4. To Receive Declarations of Interest
Mrs. Staniforth declared a personal interest in Item No. 20 (Vacancy for Auckley School Governor)
Mr. Warrender
declared a personal interest in Item No. 26 (a) (Planning application at
5. To Approve Minutes of the Previous Meeting Held on 14th July 2010
The minutes were accepted and signed as a true record.
6. Matters Arising From the Above Minutes
a)
Horses Grazing – Mr. Swainston reports
there are currently no horses on the
b) Private Wheelie Bin Cleaner – Community First Officer has contacted Highways for advice.
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6. Matters arising (continued)
c)
Request for Litter Bin,
d) Request to Re-Site Litter Bin Currently on Ellers Lane Verge – Community First Officer reports that
he does not feel this would be a practical option as the suggested re-location is only a few yards away
and there is a large refuse bin outside the Spar shop. He will monitor the situation.
e)
Litter Bins on
f)
Hayfield Recreation Centre – Enforcement Officer advises that he will be writing shortly.
g)
Request for 20 mph Speed
Limit – Caroline Flint, M.P., has written to the
Doncaster Mayor, but unfortunately he appears to have no plans or commitment to
reduce the speed limit.
h)
but will not be determined before 8 September. He has spoken with Planning and the only aspect that
might be problematic is a bat survey which was requested and has yet to be provided. With this in
mind he would not be able to force an issue that may conflict with a former condition, but has
contacted the agent to highlight the issue that is taking so long to resolve.
RESOLVED - The Clerk to ask whether an Enforcement Order could be made in the interim to tidy
up the site.
i)
Ponding,
investigation it seems that more work will be required than just installing a gulley. Works will hopefully begin in September.
j)
Community Pay-Back Scheme – Unfortunately the nominated project which was for help with
maintenance of the hedge bordering the
k) Funding from Flexible Budget – Neighbourhood Manager advises that District Councillors have
agreed in principle to support the purchase of a Christmas tree at Hayfield, and the Gating Order on
Common Lane, but have not supported the wooden steps at
financial pressures, there is some uncertainty as to whether the budget is going to be available, so
N. Manager is unable to confirm whether these projects will actually go ahead at this moment.
l)
Blocked Gullies,
m)
Parked Vehicle,
vehicle. Community Wardens to be asked to monitor and speak with the vehicle owner.
n) Christmas Tree Socket – DMBC Engineer has reminded maintenance staff to bank up earth round site
o) Maintenance of Pinfold – Mr. Warrender was thanked for tidying up the pinfold.
p)
q)
Footpath No. 7 – Pending.
7. Community Police Report
PC Pyle attended the meeting but unfortunately was called away before he could give his report.
8. District Councillor’s Report
Mrs. Woodcock reported that she has been in contact with SYPTE and DMBC’s Legal and Highways
Departments regarding the removal of the
bus shelter at
9. To Receive Audit Reports:
a) External Audit BDO LLP, the firm which undertook the audit, reports there are no matters which
have come to their attention which require the issuing of a separate Additional Issues Arising Report.
Council accepted the report. The Clerk advised that the report and a copy of the Annual Return have
been displayed on the notice board for the required period of 14 days.
b) Quarterly Internal Audit – The audit has been signed as correct by the designated member of Council.
Council accepted the report.
10. To Consider Using Internet Banking for Council’s Accounts
Council agreed to change to internet banking. An application form was signed by designated signatories, and this will now be sent to National Westminster Bank.
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11. To Discuss Current Situation Regarding Provision of Play Equipment
The Neighbourhood Manager recently advised Council that the Government has now officially withdrawn the ‘Playbuilder’ funding, which means the allocated sum will no longer be available for
look at what can be delivered within the resources available, i.e. Section 106, Parish Council contributions, etc., and the project could be delivered in stages.
RESOLVED – It was agreed to ask the Neighbourhood Manager what monies are now available from the Section 106 Fund, and what equipment can be provided from the current resources.
12.
To Discuss Management of Trees on
‘Need a Hand’ to be asked to provide one quotation to remove the two trees needing urgent attention in copse 13 C, plus a second quotation to undertake thinning of interior and remove overhanging branches.
13. To Discuss Encroachment of Recreation Ground
Council’s solicitor has received photographs
and measurements from Council which confirm the position of the land in
question. He has forwarded these on to
the resident’s solicitor stating that it is clearly contrary to their client’s
instructions as per their letter of 14 May, and he has made a request for the
resident to attend to the necessary removal of items shown in the photographs
at his earliest convenience.
14. To Discuss Loss of Bus Shelter and Re-location of Bus Stop
Council has received a number of complaints from members of the public regarding the removal of the shelter, leaving a narrow footway with no safety barrier and no protection from wind and rain.
RESOLVED – It was agreed to write to the landowner for information, and ask DMBC and SYPTE whether there are any prescriptive rights in law following full free uninterrupted use by members of the public for 60 years.
15. To Discuss Administration Costs for Festive Lighting
Council has received a Disconnection Notice from N Power for an overdue balance of which relates to the unmetered supply of electricity for festive lighting 2006 – 2010. Council has repeatedly written to challenge the high cost of administration in relation to the cost of energy, and requested an explanation but without success, therefore payment has been made for electricity used, but not the administration charges. The Credit Control Manager has put the disconnection on hold, and a reply is awaited.
16. To Provide Map to Display in BT Telephone Kiosk
The Clerk is to ask whether DMBC Planning Dept. would be able to provide an A2 size map of the village to be displayed in the kiosk.
17. To Consider Items to be Published in Newsletter
The following items are to feature on the Auckley Council’s newspage:
a)
Missing bus shelter at
b) Improvement scheme for the village green suggested by Auckley All4All.
Residents to be invited to write in with their suggestions.
c) 20 mph Speed Limit – negative reply from Mayor
d) Withdrawal of ‘Playbuilding’ Scheme
e) Members of the Auckley Show Committee to be thanked for their endeavours.
f) Council to provide a poppy wreath for Remembrance Sunday
18. To Consider Providing Poppy Wreath and Top-Up Donation for British Legion
Council agreed to provide a poppy wreath which Mr. Warrender will place on the Blaxton War Memorial during the Remembrance Parade in November.
RESOLVED – Following discussion, Mr. Payne proposed that the sum of £75 be donated to the Royal British Legion – this will provide a poppy wreath, with the remainder going to Legion funds.
Mr. Featherstone seconded the proposal, and the motion was carried.
19. To Discuss the Queen’s Jubilee
a) Report of Meetings – Mrs. Staniforth and Mr. Fletcher attended the initial meeting of Auckley
All4All Group to organise Jubilee celebrations, and Mr. Fletcher attended a second meeting, together
with members from several community organisations. It has been agreed that celebrations will take
place over the weekend of 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th of June 2012, and it has been decided to ask the Auckley
Show Committee whether they would be willing to participate in a combined Jubilee celebration.
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b) Jubilee Committee’s Request to Use Sports Facilities
The committee has written to request
use of the sports field and facilities for the 4 days of the Jubilee celebrations. In addition, permission is sought to use the
sports field over the next 18 months to hold various fund-raising events
(during the football closed season).
RESOLVED – Permission given with the
proviso that everything is left tidy.
20.
To Consider Vacancy for Community
Governor at
Members of Council were informed there is a vacancy on the Auckley Board of Governors, and asked
whether anyone would be interested in becoming a Governor. No one was able to serve on the Board.
21. To Nominate an Additional Charity Trustee
Council was informed that, due to recent resignations, there are now currently only 3 Trustees administering the Charity. This means that all 3 Trustees must attend meetings for them to be quorate, and it would be appreciated if another member of Council would agree to become a Trustee.
Mr. Payne offered to serve as a Trustee, and his offer was accepted.
22. To Discuss Highways:
a) Village Green Status – The Auckley All4All Group has met with DMBC ‘s Highways Dept. to
discuss their draft plan for changes to the green, but ha received only limited support because of the
current status of the
area, and it has been suggested that they apply for ‘Village Green’ status.
RESOLVED – Members of Council were agreed in principle to a simple improvement scheme which
would enhance the appearance of the area, be uncomplicated, low maintenance and retain the current
Christmas tree socket. Council wished to know the cost of undertaking the initial work and the
annual maintenance costs.
b) Crossroads Garage – Complaints received with regard to the old petrol sign on the forecourt. The
Clerk to write and enquire whether the proprietor intends to remove the sign.
c)
Loose Manhole Cover – DMBC to be informed there is a loose manhole cover on the footway
in front of
d) Gatehouse Lane – DMBC to be informed there are a number of potholes and sunken gullies.
23.
To Discuss Recreation Matters
a) Christmas Tree – Members were asked if they would inspect the two spruce trees on The Green and
decide whether one of these might be suitable to use as a Christmas tree to festoon the lights on.
b) Periodic Electrical Inspection of Pavilion – The inspection undertaken by ‘Select Electrical’ was
signed as satisfactory. However there were a number of observations and recommendations made
regarding minor problems, i.e. main water bonding not correct, lights in toilets not IP rated, cooker switch loose and single socket in centre room no reading possible.
RESOLVED – Agreed to ask ‘Select Electrical’ for a quote to undertake the work.
24.
To Make Comments on
It was agreed to submit comments on:
a) Green Belt in the Eastern Area – Council urges DMBC to consider implementing a Green Belt to
prevent urban sprawl and the loss of valuable countryside in the eastern part of the Borough.
b)
25. Report of Airport Consultative Meeting
The committee was informed that the Airport Master Plan will be published in the near future.
There are new guidelines for operations to reduce emissions.
The poplar trees along
26. To Consider Planning Applications:
a)
No. 10/02268/FUL – Erection of single storey pitched roof extension
to side forming integrated
garage and utility room and
demolition of existing garage to rear of semi-detached house
Council had no objections or comments to make in respect of this application
b)
No. 10/02333/FUL – Erection
of pitched roof extension to existing porch to front elevation of
semi-detached dwelling - 24 Elder Grove, Auckley Council made no objections or comments.
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c)
No. 10/02296/FUL – Erection of detached bungalow on approx. 0.03ha of
land
Land Adjacent
Council had concerns regarding: a) Infill development, b) Sight lines will be blocked as a result of proposed development on junction. c) The new development has only one car parking space, and this will lead to vehicles being parked on the road near a junction.
27.
To Report on Decisions Made by DMBC
Planning Committee
Planning permission has been granted for the following applications:
a) No. 10/01542/FUL – Erection of pitched roof extension above garage including dormer windows
b) No. 10/00799/FUL – Erection of single storey porch, extension to rear, two storey extension to side
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c) No. 10/00866/FULFT – Erection of single storey roof extension to rear
of semi-detached house
d)
No. 10/01323/FUL – Erection of
ground floor pitched roof extension to rear following demolition of existing
conservatory -
e) No. 10/01221/FULFT –Erection of single storey pitched roof extension to rear of detached bungalow
f) No. 10/01550/FUL – Erection of part two storey/part single storey extension to side and conservatory
Planning permission has been refused for the following application:
a) No. 10/01069/COU – Change of use from existing domestic garage to consultation/treatment room
28. To Sign Cheques
Cheque no. 002166 - Veolia ES (UK) (Grounds maintenance) £530.21
Cheque no. 002167 - BDO LLP (Undertake external audit) £334.88
Cheque no. 002168 - Arrow Publications (Print Council information in newsletter) £111.63
Cheque no. 002169 - Neat Ideas ( supply cartridges and stationery) £105.01
Cheque no. 002171 - Veolia ES (UK) (Grounds maintenance) £309.98
Cheque no. 002172 - N Power (Pavilion electricity supply) £85.56
Cheque no. 002174 - Auckley New Parish Centre (Hire of hall for meeting) £24.00
Cheque no. 002176 - Royal British Legion (For poppy wreath & top-up donation) £75.00
29. To Receive Correspondence
a) Letter from Standards Board asking for any declarations of gifts or hospitality. None declared.
b) Letter from SYPTE advising that a replacement for the withdrawn 707 bus would not be viable.
30. To Review Handyman’s Contract
Pursuant to Section 1 (2) of the Public Admissions and Meetings Act 1960 it was resolved that the public and press leave the meeting during discussion of the above, due to the confidential nature of the item to be discussed.
Members discussed the appointment of the Parish Handyman and reviewed a draft contract of employment.
31. To Confirm Date and Time of Next Meeting
It was agreed to hold the next meeting on Wednesday, 13th October 2010, commencing at 7.00 p.m. at the Auckley Parish Centre.
Chairperson…………………………