Slaley, Northumberland

New book: “Slaley, Then and Now”

Slaley Community Trust announces the completion of this new book about the past and present of Slaley, entitled “Slaley, Then and Now”. The 160-page book includes many old photographs, and interviews with a number of today’s Slaley residents, as well as the content of Miss Mason’s “Slaveleia Miscellany” (now out of print).

Copies will be on sale at £9.95 from the Craft tent at the 150th Slaley Show, and afterwards from the shop and elsewhere. For further information, contact Michael Elphick (673443) or Sasha Brookes (673912).

This project was started when queries about the reprinting of Miss Mason’s "Miscellany” were received, and it was decided to prepare a new version. Miss Mason, a former civil servant, had moved to Slaley on her retirement, and lived in one of the older houses. She was well known as a spinner and weaver, and a keen photographer. She gathered much information about Slaley and its past from the older residents.

Only a few copies still exist of this delightful account of Slaley, published over twenty-five years ago by an amateur local historian. It is rich in local knowledge, some of which is now in danger of being lost, and it is also of interest and value as a history of a Northumberland village, written in the 1980's by an inhabitant. She had no intention of producing an academic work, and did not do so, but she created a period piece which we believe is worth preserving as part of our local history.

It has been produced by a small group, and printed with the help of grants from several sources. We have also included interviews with a number of today’s parishioners who give their views on the past,present and future of Slaley. The colour cover shows the 1771 map of the Bulbeck Inclosure Award.

Slaley Parish Council May 2009

At the May monthly meeting concern was expressed by a member of the public at the lack of a play area for young children. See agenda item 5

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council Monday May 11th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall, at approximately 8.00 p.m. after the Annual Parish Meeting.

1. Apologies. Councillors Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison,
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, Mrs L. Norris & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. County Councillor Colin W Horncastle.
Public: Rachel Scott (for item 5 only). Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Apologies Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 10.

3. Minutes of April Parish Council meeting (circulated pages 511-515 + appendix 1 page 516, appendix 2 page 517, appendix 3 page 518, appendix 4 page 519 & appendix 5 page 520)
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. M. Palmer and seconded by Cllr. C.A. Brooks. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising
a) 4a 20/4/09, 4a 9/3/09; 4b9/2/09, 4d 12/1/09, 17a 8/12/08 Three bed-roomed Council House not eligible for a family with 5 children deferred from May meeting due to absence of Cllr Davison and no room sizes provided. Deferred to June meeting for same reasons.
b) 4e 20/4/09, 6d 9/3/09 “Narrowing the Gap” consultation on education. Responses were collated onto the Consultation response form discussed and agreed.
c) 5 20/4/09 planning application 20090162. 78 Holiday Lodges, Slaley Hall.
Slaley Parish Council reply attached as appendix 1/110509. Several more copies of parish replies received. Planning Officer, Susannah Buylla has replied to both of the Clerks letters. A copy of the initial letter to the application agent has been received if this becomes available to the public the parish council will circulate. CC Horncastle reported on the restructured planning department, the loss of staff and the increased workload.
d) 7b 20/4/09 Request for financial & manual help by St. Mary’s Parish Church circulated by e-mail for the April meeting – The letter was discussed and it was felt that the support (financial & time) of the parish church was up to individual parishioners; it is their choice. The PC can support specific Church projects but should not be making a contribution towards national church funds. Keeping the churchyard in good order is a parish matter and the PC would be within its remit to help the churchyard financially from the Precept. It was decided to re-look at the correspondence in June and decide if more information was needed before replying.
e) 7n 20/4/09, Local Works. Campaign to implement the Sustainable Communities Act. Circulated Councillors who saw this agreed to support the Early Day Motion 1064 Local Spending Reports and the Sustainable Communities Act 2007. Early Day Motion Number 1010 the Green Energy Bill.
f) 7o 20/4/09 Equality & Human Rights Commission Public sector Duties. Equality Bill into force 2011. Circulated. It was felt that this would have little effect on our Parish Council, however, page 4 says the 5 steps must be taken i.e. we must gather information and publish our plan and consult “stakeholders”, it is to be hoped that NALC would provide guidance.

5. Public Participation
A £56,000 grant to Hexhamshire Parish Council for a new play area was the concern of one parish resident and the question was asked if this grant was money originally established from planning permissions from new houses in Slaley especially for a Slaley play area. PW explained that the article on Friday April 3rd said the grant had come as part of the Government’s Play Fair scheme administered through NCC. There was however a problem with the Hexhamshire site as the lease on the site is due to expire in five years time (2014) and the diocese was not negotiating a renewal of the lease at present. A letter was handed to the Parish Council asking what had happened to the money allocated for a safe play area for the children of Slaley Parish. Cllr Horncastle confirmed that the money was still earmarked, however, it was unlikely that it would remain so indefinitely if Slaley were unable to find a suitable site. Using the money for something other than sport and play provision was questioned for example donating everything to the First School to improve their facilities. Small children playing on the Commemoration Hall grass was argued over. It was pointed out that this was a matter for the Commemoration Hall Management Committee not the Parish Council. Some unknown person had apparently indicated to parents supervising their children playing in the Commemoration Hall grounds that this was unsatisfactory. Cllr Palmer said she would ask that this be discussed at the next Management Meeting. PW asked if there was any mileage in trying to reopen the 2004 proposals to purchase land for parking at the north of the Hall thus releasing one area of grass for safe play. The answer was negative. Cllr Horncastle remarked that should Slaley have as much as £1m without a site the money was useless. Someone had to be prepared to release land. The money was tied up in legal 106 agreements. He was attending meetings called Extended Services and Community Schools on sport and play provision and would report back.

6. Correspondence
a) Major Public consultation on NHS Proposals circulated by e-mail 6/5/09 - Emergency care on A19 (see 6k 9/3/08, page 504 minutes (circulated by e-mail 5/3/09) Public Meeting at Hexham & Northern marts June 23rd 2009. 10 page questionnaire & 28- page information booklet. The Councillors, after discussion, suggested that firm evidence needs to be established that ambulance times cannot be met. Traffic at different times of day will play an important factor. Visiting the patient should also come into our answer. CC Horncastle said this was being discussed at Morpeth. The ‘state of play’ of the Community Forum was questioned, if was decided that if Hexhamshire was unable to discuss this then maybe Slaley should rejoin ET&WCMCF when the subject became an agenda item.
b) NCC letter re draft Statement of Community Involvement for the N’d LDF + Northumberland Local Development Framework Comments Form (26/6/09) + N’d LDF People & Planning. Statement of Community Involvement: Statement of Representations – Regulations 26 (56 pages) + N’d LDF People & Planning. Statement of Community Involvement (48 pages). Comments discussed and attached as appendix 2/110509 (See Parish Council minutes 8/12/08 agenda item 8f & 12/1/09 agenda item 8 – in light of Policy NE12 from the Tynedale LDF we need to try and resolve these issues through the N’d LDF).
c) E-mail circulated 1/5/09 from NHS re Swine Flu information with a request to be placed on web site. Michael Elphick, editor of the website decided not to put the information on the website because the information should arrive to all households shortly.
d) E-mail circulated 27/4/09 re Changes to the Mobile Library Services. Poster with Slaley Village mobile library times was placed on the PC notice board. News-sheet also has times.
e) E-mail from David Francis circulated 27/4/09 re Councillor fuel allowance + 17 pages on car allowances.
f) NCC European Parliamentary Elections 4/6/09 circulated by e-mail 26/4/09 Poster on PC notice board.
g) Lloyds grounds maintenance quote information circulated by e-mail 26/4/09
h) CAN Spring meeting 13/5/09 circulated by e-mail 26/4/09
Invite to NCC Area Committees + timetable.
i) Letter (4 pages) from NCC re Important changes to your Garden Waste Collection Service re £20 per bin charge. The letter does say there are no proposals to change the areas where this service is provided. Therefore this does not affect Slaley parish.
j) Slaley School May 2009 Newsletter circulated by e-mail 6/5/09
k) Weekly digest circulated by e-mail 6/5/09
l) Archaeology in Northumberland Volume 18 + The Otterburn Ranges “All Quiet on the Western Front”; Kompan Playground Living advertising brochure; Clerk 7 Councils Direct May 2009; Lloyds TSB an update on banking since the acquisition of HBOS.

7. Financial Report
a) Cheques to be signed:
No 373 Came & Co. insurance £290.47 quote circulated by e-mail 6/5/09
No 374 NALC Annual Subscription £103.89
No 375 Alex Evison - First grass cutting of season £189.30
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr M. Palmer the cheques were signed

8. Current Planning Applications
20090260 Retrospective – Construction of open top silage pit. White House (not as plans – two statements were untrue. The building is visible from the highway and it is not dug into a bank side). Because of its prominent visibility the planning department must be asked if neighbours have been consulted i.e. The Palms, and Holly Hill properties.
20090195 Construction of two-storey side extension single-storey rear extension, a front entrance canopy. Demolition of existing garage and widening of existing access.
Aultmore, Slaley village. Concerns over size, lack of garage, proximity to immediate neighbour.
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall (see agenda 4c above and appendix 1/110509) objections.
20090082 Resub.det. annexe in association with main dwelling Pinetops Hearing 14/5/09
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority

9. A.O.B.
a) Cllr Margaret Palmer asked if she could be included on the planning application circulation list. (agenda item 12, page 372 of December 10th 2007 minutes & 7b (Brian Massey) page 379 January 14th 2008 minutes). Cllr Hancock checked the updated Standing Orders. Cllr Palmer will be added to the circulation list. Cllr Hancock suggested that comments should probably be e-mailed to the Clerk to save time.
b) E-mail from PC Iain Robertson while on sick leave following an ankle operation his replacement is PC 8493 Sue Cockburn, tel. 03456 043 043 ext 61549 or 69191. e-mail: susan.cockburn.8493@northumbria.pnn.police.uk PC Dougie Kidd also a colleague introduced himself at the beginning of the AGM
c) The invoice for administration costs and hire of room for the Community Forum meeting with Susui Goncu on March 3rd have been misplaced at County Hall. Susi requested a further invoice with PC bank account information for a direct payment into our bank.
d) E-mail sent to Slaley notes and Newssheet editors with the Stocksfield telephone number of Martin Nichol 01661 842110 as the telephone number to contact when the Post Office Van does not arrive. (Customers have been telephoning Slaley Village Shop for help!) Cllr Brooks asked to make this Post Office Van in the newssheet as some people though I meant the mail van.
e) Cllr Hancock had reports from two separate members of the public relating to concerns about an aircraft landing strip near East Woodfoot and a tarmac track into the field/wood. After speaking with a member of the Baynes family, an immediate neighbour to the field in question, the Clerk learnt that it is the Baynes family who has mowed the strip for a parishioner to land his aircraft. Cllr Hancock will report back to the concerned parishioners.
f) E-mail from Michael Elphick saying he has not forgotten the website re-design, he is just too busy at the moment.
g) A small portion of the Information Board has been damaged by a sharp instrument. Clerk to contact Marcus Bryon for suggestions on a protective cover for the damage.
h) The hedge at Greencroft is growing onto the public footpath and causing a prickly obstruction.
Clerk to write the normal letter.
i) The Chairman reminded the Councillors that when the electricity went off at the April meeting they had not discussed the increase in Clerk’s salaries. This would need addressing.

10. BOATs Update.
a) The 4 Parishes BOATs Joint Committee met with Russell Stephenson on May 6th and discussed the trial through the Magistrates Courts to determine the Espershields and Winnows Hill BOAT downgrading and diversion. It was agreed to send a letter to NCC re-affirming their support for the NCC proposals.
b) Byway 44 will be discussed through the Magistrates courts on May 20th

11. Date of June meeting: Monday June 8th

There being no further business the meeting ended at 9.50 p.m.

Healey Parish Council May 2009

Healey Parish Council, Annual Parish Council meeting, Annual Parish Meeting and May monthly meeting.

Minutes of Healey Annual Parish Meeting, Wednesday 20th May 2009, followed the Annual Parish Council Meeting at 8.05 p.m. in Barley Hill Community Hall.

Six Booklets containing the Annual Reports were produced for the meeting.

1. Apologies. Councillors Christine Johnston & John Raine
Present: Councillor T. Warde-Aldam in the Chair, Councillors: Monica Gibbs, & Martin Adamson. Acting Clerk Pat Wilson. County Councillor: Colin W Horncastle. Courant Reporter: None. Members of the Public: Anne Dale & Russell Stephenson.

2. Declaration of Interests.
None.

3. Minutes of 2008 Annual Parish Meeting (circulated). (In 2008 the minutes were actually incorporated into the May monthly meeting minutes and were therefore agreed at the September 2008 meeting)

4. Matters Arising.
None.

5. Chairman’s Annual Report (circulated). Attached as appendix 1/200509
No questions.

6. District Councilor’s Annual Report (circulated). Attached as appendix 2/200509.
Distribution of proceeds from Housing Developers Funds was acknowledged as a good source of income for play and sport improvements

7. County Councilor’s Annual Report (circulated). Attached as appendix 3/200509
County Councillor C.W. Horncastle added information on the forthcoming Boundary Review. Councillor Mrs Anne Dale recommended that Healey PC watch this carefully.

8. Barley Hill Community Hall Committee Representative Report (circulated). Attached as appendix 4/200509.
The Clerk, Pat Wilson, was asked to provide samples for BHCH of Slaley Commemoration Hall Health & Safety Policy and Risk Assessment during December 2008. Have these been adopted at BHCH? Mrs Anne Dale and Martin Adamson BHCH Management Committee said they thought not as no management committee meeting had been held for approximately three years. Mrs Ann Dale confirmed that she was the booking clerk for BHCH. There is no caretaker. Key holders are members of the management committee; made up as follows – Chairman: John Raine, Secretary/Treasurer? Booking Clerk Anne Dale, Amynta Warde-Aldam, Christine Johnston & Martin Adamson. Where could a breakdown of hire charges for BHCH be obtained was not discussed.
County Councillor CW Horncastle asked if funding was needed to improve BHCH, he specifically mentioned a new outer door or new felt on the roof (several damp patches were noticed). He has a £15,000 annual allowance to spend on small community schemes, obviously not all the £15,000 could be used but it was something to consider for 2011/12 financial year.

9. BOATs Joint-Committee Annual Report (circulated). Attached as appendix 5/200509

10. Financial Report for 1st April 2008 - 31st March 2009 circulated. Attached as appendix 6/200509

11. Update from reconvened Doomsday Committee “details of 10 years on project”. Report by Cllr T. Warde-Aldam.
The original committee were invited to a reconvened meeting on Tuesday May 19th. Present were Chairman: Jim Bailey, Secretary/Clerk: Catherine Lincoln, Avril Trapp, Jamie & Tom Warde-Aldam. Funds of £216.00 remained in the account. Several possibilities were discussed e.g. an all purpose web site costing £10,000 or a free web site, lack of community with many estate workers now gone versus lots of community involvement in various groups/organisations etc, close down the old committee or keep the old committee going with its excellent track record of raising funds. Consider a new name “doomsday” sounds a little morbid. This initial meeting requested that Jamie Warde-Aldam provided further proposals. No date for a subsequent meeting had been arranged.
Mrs Anne Dale said she had been part of the original committee but had not known about the meeting on May 19th, she also said that many people felt the loss of the parish magazine, its births, marriages and deaths kept the community in touch. New people in the parish were welcomed and goodbyes were said to people who left the area. We have a smaller faming community and the area is changing. Mrs Dale hoped that something could be produced to replace the parish magazine, she also mentioned the grave stones and hoped that they could be recorded and become an historical source. The photographic record of Bobby Johnston was another resource that should be preserved. Many people who have moved from the area still like to hear the news and it would be good if a web site was able to provide a direct link. Getting the involvement of the younger generation was important and something which needed careful thought and encouragement.

12. Parish Report on Highways.
The C270 from the Slaley parish boundary, east of The Glen crossroads to Scales Cross is in need of ditching work. The road was resurfaced Spring 2008 and already the highway edges are badly worn in several places.
The C267 (opposite the drive to Minsteracres) passed School House to Millshield Picnic Site has several pot holes and depressions.
The C265 from the Slaley parish boundary is due for a 300 metre resurface at West Minsteracres, this does not seem an adequate distance as there are many pot-holes and roadside damage especially where timber extraction has taken place.
Junction of the C268 Espershields road with the C265 this corner is notorious for accidents on the north-bound carriageway. Chevrons have recently been placed at the corner, however it is the considered opinion that warning signs are needed long before the corner is reached. An average of one vehicle per week tips, knocks down telegraph poles or smashes into the stone wall at this corner.
At the junction of the C265 with the C266 (Barley Lodge to Barley Hill junction) the boundary wall is knocked down more often than it is built up. This is an accident black-spot well known by local people. However since the opening of Slaley Hall guests, part-time staff and delivery vehicles use this shortcut to Slaley Hall. They leave the A68 and enter this straight highway often continuing at a speed more suited to the A68 than the C266 suddenly at the crest of the hill they see a T- junction sign. Much too late for many vehicles and consequently unable to stop they continue into the stone wall. The Parish Council requests more warning signs on the C266, preferably a progression of warning signs long before the crest of the hill. It is the opinion of the Parish Council that it only a matter of time until a fatality occurs at this junction. Colin Charlton of NCC Highways to be invited to meet Councillor Martin Adamson and Russell Stephenson of Espershields Farm on site to discuss possible solutions.

13. Matters on which Members of the Public would like to raise.
None.

14. A.O.B.
None.

Minutes of Healey Parish Council Meeting, Wednesday 20th May 2009, which followed the Annual Parish Meeting at 9.00 p.m. in Barley Hill Community Hall.

1. Apologies. Councillors Christine Johnston & John Raine
Present: Councillor T. Warde-Aldam in the Chair, Councillors: Monica Gibbs, & Martin Adamson. Acting Clerk Pat Wilson. County Councillor: Colin W Horncastle. Courant Reporter: None. Members of the Public: Anne Dale & Russell Stephenson.

2. Declaration of Interests.
None

3. Minutes of February 2009 Monthly meeting (circulated pages 15-20 + appendix 1 page 21, appendix 2 page 22 & appendix 3 page 23) Interim Report February 24 – March 26 (circulated as pages 24-25 + appendix 1 page 26, appendix 2 page 27 & appendix 3 page 28) Interim Report March 27 – April 29 (circulated as pages 29 - 31 + appendix 1 page 32 & appendix 2 page 33)
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. M. Adamson and seconded by Cllr. M. Gibbs the minutes were signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 1a Int/2; 1c Int/1, c) 5 23/2/09; 4a 10/12/08; 5a 10/9/08 Doomsday Project: Meeting on May 19th to discuss carrying the 2010 project further as detailed by Cllr. T. Warde-Aldam agenda item 11, of Annual Parish Meeting and copied here.
The original committee were invited to a reconvened meeting on Tuesday May 19th. Present were Chairman: Jim Bailey, Secretary/Clerk: Catherine Lincoln, Avril Trapp, Jamie & Tom Warde-Aldam. Funds of £216.00 remained in the account. Several possibilities were discussed e.g. an all purpose web site costing £10,000 or a free web site, lack of community with many estate workers now gone versus lots of community involvement in various groups/organisations etc, close down the old committee or keep the old committee going with its excellent track record of raising funds. Consider a new name “doomsday” sounds a little morbid. This initial meeting requested that Jamie Warde-Aldam provided further proposals. No date for a subsequent meeting had been arranged.
b) 1b Int/2, 1d Int/1, 7g 23/2/09 Community Forums. Hexhamshire Parish Council has agreed to Host our small group of rural parish councils we are still waiting to hear further from Hexhamshire as to the date of the first meeting. (Clerk spoken with Brian Massey who said that Hexhamshire were a long way off organising the first meeting they were very concerned with the “Narrowing the Gap” educational questionnaire) CC Colin Horncastle told the meeting of his chairing the first Bellingham CF meeting and one or two positive decision were made.
c) 1d Int/2, 1h Int/1, 14 23/2/09: TC Beacon (Better Public Places) & LPSA grant, Healey Notice Board is in need of urgent weather- proofing. Cllr. Warde-Aldam to get a quote for the work and circulate for approval. A replacement Notice Board at BHCH was discussed, Problem being that it is only seen when people actually come into the car park, other sites discussed i.e. drive to Minsteracres, roadside near West Minsteracres.
d) 1e Int/2, 1i Int/1, 16 23/2/09: Espershields proposed BOAT / Bridleway Diversion. BOATs Joint Committee meet on May 6th and agreed to send a joint letter of support singed by each of the PC Chairman. Cllr. Warde-Aldam signed the letter at the meeting. Russell expressed his concern that maybe the feelings of the users have been underestimated.
e) 2e Int/1: NCC letter re draft Statement of Community Involvement for the N’d LDF + Northumberland Local Development Framework Comments Form (26/6/09) + N’d LDF People & Planning. Statement of Community Involvement: Statement of Representations – Regulations 26 (56 pages) + N’d LDF People & Planning. Statement of Community Involvement (48 pages). Circulated for comments currently with Cllr Warde-Aldam. Clerk asked to circulated Slaley’s response as a starting point.

5. Correspondence.
a) Major Public consultation on NHS Proposals circulated by e-mail 6/5/09 - Emergency care on A19 (see 2c Int/1, page 24 minutes (circulated by e-mail 5/3/09) Public Meeting at Hexham & Northern Marts June 23rd 2009. 10 page questionnaire & 28- page information booklet. The Councillors did not wish to complete the questionnaire.
b) E-mail circulated 1/5/09 from NHS re Swine Flu information with a request to be placed on web site. Michael Elphick, editor of the website decided not to put the information on the website because the information should arrive to all households shortly.
c) Invite to NCC Area Committees + timetable. (circulated by e-mail TWA)
d) Letter (4 pages) from NCC re Important changes to your Garden Waste Collection Service re £20 per bin charge. The letter does say there are no proposals to change the areas where this service is provided. Therefore this does not affect Healey parish.
e) E-mail circulated 1/5/09 from NCC Jonathan Dickinson re 2009 Surface dressing advance notice of 300 m on C265 at West Minsteracres.
f) Slaley School May 2009 Newsletter circulated by e-mail 6/5/09
g) E-mail circulated 14/5/09 Sustainable Rural Communities Seminar 26/6/09 at Braintree.
h) Weekly digest circulated by e-mail 6/5/09
i) Archaeology in Northumberland Volume 18 + The Otterburn Ranges “All Quiet on the Western Front (2 copies, one to Cllr Warde-Aldam and the other to Cllr Adamson)
j) Regional Conference for the North East 9/6/09, Shotton Hall, Peterlee, for Clerks and Councillors.

6. Planning Applications.
20090309: Replacement of flat roof with pitched roof. Lakewood, Minsteracres.
Looked at application - No objections
20090180: Construction of agricultural building on land south west of School House Farm, Kiln Pit Hill, Consett. No objections *
* Councillors re-looked at this during the meeting and decided to make objections. Russell Stephenson had not been consulted and he would also ask to make representation to the application.
20081079: Proposed internal alterations, construction of front, rear and side extension. Alterations to change outbuildings and integral garage into a kitchen, pantry, utility, bedroom and garage. – Pikewell House, Healey. Pending
20080784: Listed building consent for demolition and rebuilding of an existing agricultural building. -Fotherley Buildings, Stocksfield. Pending.
20080785: Demolition and rebuilding of an existing agricultural building. -Fotherley Buildings, Stocksfield. Pending.
Decision from Planning Authority
20081174: Change of use of paddock to garden and construction of stone boundary wall. The Farmhouse, Newfield, Minsteracres. Granted
20090122: Listed Building Consent: Construction of porch to rear - Hill Top Healey.
Granted
*20080981: Demolition of detached garage/hayloft and construction of two-storey extension to north elevation and single storey orangery to west elevation – Newfield Farm Cottage. Refused. * 20080981 now under Appeal. E-mail sent on 24/3/09.

7. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
Cheque No 39 NALC 2009/10 annual subs £53.83
Cheque No 40 Mrs P Wilson Clerk’s expenditure since February 2009 including £30.13 cost of adverting the Annual Parish Meeting in Hexham Courant. £62.27
Proposed by Cllr. T. Warde-Aldam and seconded by Cllr. M. Adamson the cheques were signed
b) Interim payments: None
c) Audit. No members of the public requested to inspect the Parish Council accounts.
d) Cllr. T. Warde-Aldam signed Section 2 of the audit form confirming the PC accepted the Annual Governance Statement sent by e-mail on 10/4/09
e) Financial Balance as at end of meeting dated 20/5/09. Attached as appendix 1/200509

8. AOB.
a) Cllr Adamson was asked to have three copies of the BHCH key cut. One copy should be sellotaped inside the Healey Parish Council Storage Box.

9. Date of Next Meeting.
Wednesday September 9th 2009 at 7.30 p.m.

There being no further business the meeting ended at 9.40 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council April 2009

Slaley Parish Council looked at the village Speed Survey results, for more information see agenda item 7a.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday April 20th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Councillor Mrs A. S. Robson, Mrs L. Norris & S. Davison. County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillor Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: Eileen & Ben Rutter (The Pry), William Bliss & Penelope Hewart (Sandybraes), Joe Melvine (Holly Hill), John Mullholland (village), Tom Henderson (Wooley), Russell Stephenson (Espershields), Louise English & John Knowles (Colpitts), Reg Corbidge, Tim Troman, Samantha Ingham & Robert West (Eagle Lodge) Slaley Park. & PC Iain Robertson. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

Special Discussion beginning promptly at 7.30 p.m.
Mel Richardson of Northumberland Highways on concerns with Slaley parish highways.
Unfortunately Mr. Richardson has taken ill and was unable to attend the meeting.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None.

3. Minutes of March Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 502- 505 + appendix 1 page 506, appendix 2 page 507, appendix 3 page 508, appendix 4 page 509, appendix 5 page 510).
Proposed by Cllr. C.A.Brooks and seconded by Cllr. M. Palmer the minutes were approved and signed

4. Matters Arising.
* Special 9/3/09 E-mail from Magistrates thanking us for letter & positive feedback.
a) 4a 9/3/09; 4b9/2/09, 4d 12/1/09, 17a 8/12/08 Three bed-roomed Council House not eligible for a family with 5 children deferred to May meeting due to absence of Cllr Davison and no room sizes provided. Cllr. Hancock has down loaded information which he will circulate when the matter can be discussed.
b) 4c 9/3/09 Grass collection at Parks Side bungalows. Reply from Mr. Evison circulated. Councillors felt that the cost was prohibitive. It was agreed to monitor the grass this year with special notice just prior to Slaley Show and if possible keep Mr Evison on stand by for early August if needed.
c) 4e 9/3/09 6r 9/2/09 E-mail reply from Brian Massey, which did not explain what the Adapt Membership covered. Received a membership reminder. Agreed to pay £10 membership.
d) 4h 9/3/09, 9j 9/2/09 The two part-ownership homes at Reaston View are now occupied.
e) 6d 9/3/09 “Narrowing the Gap” consultation on education currently with Cllr A Robson.
f) 6e 9/3/09 Planning Portal information circulated. It was agreed to sign up for this. In humour it was suggested that an Internet Kiosk in the village shop might allow access to these planning portals.
g) 6g 9/3/09 Information Board installed during March.
h) 9 9/3/09 Community Forum: Correspondence 30/3/09 from ET&WCP PC’s Forum, Adrian Hincliffe and Alice Ellison Clerk to Blancland PC about comments regarding the formation of a Rural small parishes CF. It would appear that someone reported that we were definitely forming one and not that we were considering it. E-mail 7/4/09 from Hexhamshire - they are willing to host a rural forum and would welcome an opportunity to discuss. Alice Ellison replied 15/4/09 that Blanchland would prefer to have the rural forum. Clerk instructed to write to CF group welcoming the offer to Host by Hexhamshire PC and request a further meeting to discuss.
i) 13 9/3/09: Nine people took part in the Annual Litter Pick many positive comments were received by passing cyclists, vehicles and walkers. A microwave was the most unusual item, which won the prize.

5. Report of the Special Meeting held on 6/4/09 to discuss planning application 20090162. OUTLINE- 78 Holiday Lodges, Slaley Hall Complex. Notes from 6/4/09 circulated as appendix 1/200409. Questions for Jonathan Nicholson circulated and attached as appendix 2/200409.
Copy of correspondence to planning Department from: Tim Troman, Karen Sykes, Drs Keith & Claire Brewster, Simon Knight, Jason & Jeannie Abdelnoor
E-mails between ICH and Planning – Gordon Halliday’s deputy (Mr Bell), Jonathan Nicholson & Susannah Buylla
E-mails of suggestion for help from Guy Opperman (a barrister).
E-mails between PW & planning re permission sites + PC Iain Robertson re safety on U8080 if additional traffic are allowed + Stephen Rickitt & David Brookes regarding the public footpath issue.
Draft of SPC reply using the wording of Policy NE12.
Cllr Hancock reported on a meeting during the afternoon of 20/4/09 between Community Trust members & Dr. Albert Weir.
The Chairman confirmed the PCs receipt of various bits of professional and semi professional advice, which tried to determine if the planning application related to Policy NE12. The strongest objections relate to the rural character etc. Nature and conservation are a very important aspect of the area. The 1.2% allowable development was discussed and Cllr. Hancock reported that the present planning committee were unable to confirm how this 1.2% is measured /worked out. Were car parks, holiday villa gardens, the football field, premier events ground etc part of the allowed development? Clerk to contact Audrey Hutchinson, former Mayor of Hexham and who was part of the consultation team who agreed this 1.2%,
Cllr. Hancock reported that the Environmental Agency has concerns that some of the proposed new dwellings are too close to watercourses. Felling woodland may instigate an ecological assessment.
Cllr Hancock reported on Policy TM12, which relates to holiday & caravan sites and gives conditions to expansion of existing sites. The PC will also use this Policy in its final reply.
The current planning officers have requested that all outstanding planning permissions for un-built accommodation buildings are rescinded before this application is determined.
Cllr Hancock encouraged the public to continue submitting comments. He encouraged them to look closely as Policies TM12 and NE12 and ask general questions for the justification of this planning expansion in any submission to Susannah Buylla.
During the discussion it was generally agreed that the holiday accommodation generated by Slaley Hall did have a positive impact on the rural economy. Locally Slaley Village Shop and the two Inns definitely benefited from the extra business holidaymakers provided. Outside the immediate parish local businesses especially food establishments also benefited.
The public made a request that any new findings or knowledge could be made available, possibly at the Post Office. The Chairman confirmed that he would comment on the final PC response via the Newssheet and on the web site.
Police Constable Iain Robertson reported his action to the PC’s request for help with the safety issue of extra traffic using the U8080, which this application, if successful, would generate. The Police are not automatically consulted on a planning application, it is the duty of the highways authority to comment on highway safety on a planning application. The Police can not comment until the plans are granted. However with regard to general safety on the U8080 PC Robertson had spoken with Richard Cheesman, Property Manager at Slaley Hall regarding unlawful use of the U8080 with a TRO. Mr Cheesman has written a staff-notice requesting use of the new access road to Slaley Hall in preference to U8080. PC Robertson had negotiated with NCC who has agreed to hold a two-week survey on the Coal Road to assess its current use.

6. Public Participation.
No further issues.

7. Correspondence.
a) Speed Survey results from PC Iain Robertson. His concerns about speeding passed the school relayed to School and asked for an update on its 20 mph reduction outside school. ICH volunteered to visit school and look at its transport project. PC Robertson commented that main speeders appeared to be during a golf tournament or associated with race meetings.
b) Request for financial & manual help by St. Mary’s Parish Church circulated by e-mail – to be discussed with a full council.
c) E-mail dated 6/4/09 regarding winter let of the Springhouse Caravan Site Manager’s accommodation. Cllr Hancock checked web site and the property is let as Hadrian’s Cottage which sleeps 6. Clerk instructed to contact Enforcement officer with this information, initially with a telephone call then followed by a hard copy. Confirmation from neighbours that the outside hot-tub has been used by holidaymakers staying at Hadrian’s Cottage almost weekly since Christmas. ** At this point the electricity was switched off because of a major electrical fault in Slaley village therefore the remainder of correspondence was not discussed in detail.
d) NCC Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles information.
e) Minutes of the Community Trust AGM 25/3/09 (note the incorrect date of 2008)
f) E-mail circulated 16/4/09 from David Francis re Sport England funding for rural areas.
g) E-mail circulated 13/3/09 re Temporary road Closure for Derwent Cycle Race.
h) E-mail circulated 12/3/09 re Boundary Committee carrying out review of boundaries.
i) E-mail circulated 12/3/09 re NALC Final salary award for Clerks.
j) E-mailed from Cllr Norris 12/3/09 re ET&WCM PC’s F minutes of 6/1/09 & meeting on 17/3/09 asking if anyone wished to attend.
k) E-mailed Weekly Rural Focus 31/3/09, 7/4/09, 14/4/09
l) Questionnaire from James Whitley re Affordable housing completed by Clerk.
m) NCC Fare Trade, March 2009. Edition 2009/01 circulated.
n) Local Works. Campaign to implement the Sustainable Communities Act. Action by May 8th circulating.
o) Equality & Human Rights Commission Public sector Duties. Equality Bill into force 2011. circulating.
p)NALC Networking Lunch 1/5/09 information circulated by e-mail, Littlethorpe bus shelters brochure; Taking care into the Home ‘sponsored walk suggestion’; Easter Play Programme (Slaley 9/4/09) Posted on notice board and leaflets into Slaley village shop. East Hire (NE) Ltd advertising brochure; Information Commissioner’s office DVD ‘Tick Tock’ on FoI Scheme; Society of Local Council Clerks Training Day 22/4/09 & Regional Conference 9/6/09; Tynedale Council meeting minutes, Bank Holiday refuse collection (placed on notice Board), Advice for protecting homes and business from flooding; Norwich union Your Parish Council Key features; CAN Vol 29 N0 2 issue. Minutes of the last Meeting of Tynedale Council 24/3/09. Record RSS play ground advertising leaflet; Queensbury Shelters Advertising leaflet; CPRE overview Spring 2009. Vacancies at Abbeyfield sent and recalled and sent again; Dogs Trust notice and leaflets.

8. Financial Report.
a) Balance Sheet circulated as appendix 5/200409.
b) Audit: Display Notices June 15th – June 28TH
Internal audit June 15th – June 28th
Records available to public 29 June – July 24th
Audit date 31st July 2009
c) Confirmation of first-half of 09/10 Precept paid into bank account.
d) Receipt from Tynedale Sports Council for £50 donation.
e) Cheques to be signed:
No 371 Clerk’s annual expenditure for 08/09 £275.61
No 372 ADAPT annual membership £10.00
Proposed by Cllr Palmer & seconded by Cllr Brooks the cheques were signed and the Balance Sheet agreed.

9. Annual Governance Statement as per Annual Audit. Circulated as appendix 3/200409
Agreed.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20090195 Construction of two storey side extension single storey rear extension, a front entrance canopy. Demolition of existing garage and widening of existing access.
Aultmore, Slaley village. Concerns over size, lack of garage, proximity to immediate neighbour.
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall (see agenda 5)
20090082 Resub.det. annexe in association with main dwelling Pinetops Pending
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090039 Construction of two agricultural buildings Marley Cote Walls Granted
** 9/3/09 Reply from Enforcement Officer, Richard Stewart re silage pit at White House Farm a planning application will arrive in due course.

11. Update Highways Annual Report.
a) Reports received from Cllrs Hancock, Palmer & Davison. Clerk Pat Wilson.

12. Request Reports for Annual Public Meeting in May
Chairman. County Councillor. District Councillor. Representative on the Commemoration Hall Management Committee. BOATs Chairman. Community Trust.

13. Parish Plan, Action Plan: April update. Draft circulated as appendix 4/200409.
No alterations to draft.

14. A.O.B.
None.

15. BOATs update.
a) Espershields Magistrates Court hearing will be a preliminary hearing due to the user groups objection to the proposals. A full 2/3 hearing is expected, possibly June.
b) BOATs 4 Parishes Joint Committee meeting on Wednesday May 6th at 7 p.m.

16. Date of May 2009 meeting May 11th. (Annual Slaley Parish Council Meeting, followed by Annual Public Meeting followed by a shortened monthly meeting)